Falstaff

Once upon a time, there was a vineyard that was particularly spoilt by the Montalcino sun; it still bears the name Vigna Loreto to this day. Only in the best vintages does a Brunello come from this exposed site that is bursting with richness, complexity and assertiveness. It possesses a textural depth and balance that is captivating. Fruit, spice and very unique nuances such as savoury herbs, liquorice, tobacco and a firm tannin make this impressive wine monument linger on the palate and in the memory for a long time. With every sip, it opens up further layers and you might almost sink into it, such is the shift in the boundaries of what is comparable. The 2019 Vigna Loreto is not only extremely elegant, but also profound and almost outrageously juicy. SUPERIORE.DE

"Opulent nose with woody spice, backed by ripe red and blue fruits (redcurrants, wild berries) with ethereal herbal aromas, also floral notes such as lavender. Rich palate with intense fruit, ripe and taut, framed by grippy, polished tannins and supporting freshness." Weinwisser

"Sparkling ruby-garnet colour with a brightening rim. Opens with notes of smoke and tobacco, then lots of pomegranate and plum, light mineral components. Present tannin on the palate, which is very well integrated over the course, firm pressure, lots of juicy fruit." Falstaff

"Overlooking the River Orcia, the south-east-facing Loreto vineyard rises 400 metres above sea level. Tasted alongside the estate's Brunello, it definitely shows a greater stage presence. Intense plum and cherry flavours intertwine with exotic spices, chinotto and sweet herbs. The inner flavours of the vintage are in the foreground and emphasise the compact fruit. The gravelly tannins support the whole, but are more elegant than powerful. The wine finishes with a hint of liquorice." Decanter

"Blackberries, menthol, sage, stone dust and cloves characterise the youthful, restrained 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Loreto. It flows lightly across the palate, silky with depths of ripe raspberries and sour cherries, while fine-grained tannins saturate the finish. The finish is savoury and long, structured yet lively and stimulates the imagination with its future potential. Hints of cocoa, lavender and topical leaf linger and seem to last well over a minute. I am impressed." Vinous

"This wine shows cracked white pepper and wet slate, giving you a clear sense of place. The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Loreto is precise and well-defined, but as the wine opens up, you get interludes of ripe fruit, blackcurrant and oak spice. The wine is multi-faceted with many layers and angles. The palate is bright cherry with good length that leads into fine, chalky tannins. This wine offers an authentic flavour of Montalcino." Wine Advocate

"A soil with tufa prevalence that gives this Brunello great tension. Red mulberry, notes of lemon thyme and peony. Salty tannins on the palate finish with thyme and floral notes." Luca Gardini

As a result of extensive soil research, Francesco Ricasoli was able to identify three microlocations, which will be vinified separately from the 2015 vintage onwards. The range of Chianti Classico Gran Selezione now includes, in addition to the famous Castello di Brolio, three cru sites (Colledilà, Roncicone and Ceniprimo), all of which are 100% planted with Sangiovese. They differ in structure and taste in close correspondence with their terroir and impressively demonstrate the complexity of the Chanti Classico region.

The grapes of Colledilà come from the soils of Monte Morello. The 7.6 hectare single-vineyard plot was planted in 2002 on very rocky soils rich in calcium, clay and organic matter. These characteristics give this wine its sharpness and concentration, promising long ageing in the cellar.

Ripe, dark cherry fruit and blackberry aromas, followed by tar, liquorice and potting soil. On the palate, a fine earthiness, cherry and plum, plus finely knit and slightly sweet tannins. The dense fruit and pleasant acid wire the Sangiovese provide the necessary freshness. Masterfully composed! SUPERIORE.DE

"Like a laser beam in profile, this red wine evokes aromas and flavours of cherries, currants, minerals, wild herbs and sweet spices. The lingering, incisive finish leaves a hint of fine tannins. Needs time." Wine Spectator

"Juicy, ripe and bright, it shows a delicious freshness of blackcurrant fruit with classic chalky verticality and length, but it needs more time to reveal all its complexity." Decanter

"Of these 2020 releases, I think the Barone Ricasoli 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colledilà is the most sensitive to the warm growing season. You sense more fruit ripeness in this wine with savoury spices, leather and roasted espresso beans. There is plenty of plum and purple fruit framed by gravel and campfire ash. Indeed, this 2020 expression offers a nice, balanced freshness in terms of mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

"Intense perfume of stone fruit, dark chocolate and tobacco; tightly woven, the tannins polished and in perfect unison with the well-integrated acidity, the finish on notes of black cherries, clear and spot-on. Also very successful in this vintage." Vinum

"Very perfumed with aromas of hibiscus flowers, citrus and fresh cherries leading to a medium body with layers of fruit and very fine tannins that go on and on. Fully integrated. A joy to taste and drink, but it will develop beautifully in bottle. Pure harmony." James Suckling

"Elegantly bright ruby red with a delicate garnet rim. Expressive nose, of rose hips, blood oranges, fresh cherries, very inviting and fragrant, red peach, with delicate floral components. Very juicy entry on the palate, polished and clear, with great brought out red fruit, plus bright spice, long and very elegant." Falstaff

Altesinos Montosoli is always a crowd pleaser and a beautiful wine. It shows depth, intensity and plenty of authenticity both in terms of the grape variety and the area. Dark cherries and blackberries rise from the bouquet with spices, pipe tobacco and damp earth in tow. The wine is complex and nuanced. The authenticity of the Sangiovese comes through clearly on the palate. It is a medium-bodied wine with polished but firm tannins and distinct acidity. The finish shows a touch of freshness, minerality, notes of mint and great depth. SUPERIORE.DE

"Spicy, fruity aromatics, wild berries and roses; the attack is multi-layered, has character but also plenty of polish, the ell-long finish on notes of stone fruit and undergrowth." Vinum

"Firm and quite deep, nutty and very slightly cocoa-spicy aroma of ripe black berries, more black than red, with clear tar, a touch of cherries, hints of dried flowers and herbs as well as nutty tones. Tart, with air increasingly juicy, very tightly knit, rather dark fruit with present, nutty wood spice, some toasty cocoa and coffee notes as well as a little dried herbs, hints of juniper in the background, noticeable, but integrated alcohol, slightly ethereal, juniper-like spice, salty nuances, quite complex, still completely undeveloped, very good, firm, again toasty finish. Definitely needs to mature." Wein-Plus

"Shiny, rich ruby red with a fine garnet shimmer. Very clear and fruity nose, fresh, raspberry and dark cherry, fennel in the background. Round and supple in the attack and course, grippy tannin with fine melting, spreads out richly, nice pressure in the final." Falstaff

"The aromatics alone are worth the price of entry on the 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Montosoli. A dazzling display is revealed as this opens like a basket of freshly picked flowers with ripe strawberries, cloves and a hint of plum sauce that adds gravitas. Its elegance is nicely matched by a balanced inner sweetness, as mineral-tinged red berries are contrasted by hints of sour citrus and savory spice. Fine tannins mount, yet are almost imperceptible until the finish, where notes of blood orange mingle with licorice and inner rose. In a word, spellbinding. While some cellaring will be needed, I expect the 2017 Montosoli to enjoy a broad, open and highly pleasurable drinking window." Vinous

"This is one of the icon wines of Montalcino and one of the bottles that best captures the character of this prized vineyard cru. Altesino farms 4.5 hectares in Montosoli at 350 meters in elevation with galestro soils. The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Montosoli is darkly concentrated and rich. It shows an almost creamy consistency that was not easy to achieve in this hot vintage that tends to underline tannic power and alcohol. Instead, this wine offers a steady stream of dark fruit flavors that transition to spice, leather and sweet tobacco." Wine Advocate

"This concentrated red is saturated by black currant, blackberry and blueberry flavors, with notes of iron, tar, tobacco and wild herbs chiming in as it evolves toward the long finish. So fresh and fruity, it's hard to believe this is a 2017 if not for the stiff tannins. Shows superb balance and complexity." Wine Spectator

"Super clean black fruit and minerals on the nose and palate. Floral and herbal nuances, too. Medium-to full-bodied with very fine tannins and a long finish. This is super-clean, long and balanced. Despite the difficult vintage, Montosoli shows its class. One of the wines of the vintage. Best from 2024." James Suckling

Of all its wines, the flagship Tenuta di Trinoro offers the deepest insight into the Franchetti family's viticulture. The proprietary blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot from limestone and clay soils is adjusted each year depending on the quality and quantity of the harvest. The grapes are always the best of the vintage and come from the very best plots. The unique style of this Tuscan wine icon is recognisable with every vintage.

The vintage is deep and pure with a solid core of black fruit framed by an elegant contour of spice, tobacco, smoke and crushed stone. On the palate the wine is long and the finish can be counted in minutes, the whole experience is beautifully lean and velvety. SUPERIORE.DE

"Initially chaste, then multi-layered flavours of stone fruit, fresh flowers, maquis and undergrowth; superb structure with complexity, the powdery tannin precisely placed, the acidity provides the verve, finishes long and seductive. A great wine that still needs to mature." Vinum

"Rich, dark ruby violet colour. Complex and intense on the nose, showing nuances of cassis, dark chocolate, tobacco and subtle spicy components. Fills the palate, plenty of sweet, dark berry fruit, lots of fine flavour, polished, dense tannins, pithy final." Falstaff

"Super clean and rich with ripe currants on the nose, together with floral notes of violets and bright spices, such as nigella seeds and cardamom. Medium- to full-bodied with a very focused drive through the palate. The bright spices latch onto the firm tannins and combine with the fruit to give a long, vibrant finish. This is very tight and brimming with life. Needs a year or two to soften the tannins, but already showing class." James Suckling

"The sweet richness of vanilla bean, toasted coconut, blackberry tart and milk chocolate on the nose then evolves to reveal the savory flintiness of soil, graphite, spices and pepper. Tart and sweet blackberries and cherry syrup on the palate top an indulgent slice of flourless chocolate cake, with a sprig of fresh mint for garnish. A long, dynamic finish is guaranteed with the support of athletic tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"Displaying a ripe, fleshy nose of black and red hedgerow berries, along with touches of sous bois, currants, bitter herbs and floral notes, this is an immediately appealing Trinoro 2021. In the mouth it conveys brightness along with depth and sapidity of succulent dark fruits, all the time lifted by a balsamic character. This features fine, grippy tannins and fresh acidity which lurk on the periphery, supporting the fruit without interfering. Vertical, succulent and bright, with some sweet violet, tobacco, damp earth and graphite notes emerging on the long and poised finish." Decanter

"Juicy and packed with black currant and blackberry fruit, this red is bright and balanced, with graphite, tobacco and black pepper elements adding complexity. Refined tannins are well-integrated with the graceful profile, while the lingering finish adds graphite, olive and oak spice details." Wine Spectator

"the 2021 Tenuta di Trinoro has a very generous and open-knit character with thick layers of dark fruit, blackberry confit, rhubarb, sweet earth and toasted spice. The wine's appearance is inky dark, and like the other wines in this portfolio of new releases, the alcohol is recorded at a high 15.5%." Wine Advocate

Just like its older brother, Massetino skilfully showcases the contrast between power and opulence combined with restraint and class. A solid, crisp wine with a bright colour, very distinctive, vertical and elevated, intense and expressively aromatic. On the nose, the essence of hyacinth, saffron, wild rosemary, mulberry and a hint of lavender. Juicy on the palate, but with a frame that emphasises the feeling of density and compactness. Vertically layered, but with great depth, tapering downwards to a distant vanishing point. After a silky attack, the present tannins take hold as the wine progresses. Long and pure, very persistent. Massetino is truly something special every year. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, deep dark ruby colour with violet shimmer. Appealing nose with notes ranging from blackberry to orange peel and tobacco. Well-developed dark berry fruit on the palate, then unfolds with polished tannins, balanced and with good length." Falstaff

"This wine is opulent, with a lush texture that envelops flavours of black cherries, blackberries and plums. Hints of tar, iron and wild herbs add detail as this red evolves into a long finish. Balanced and fresh, with sweet, lingering oak spice notes." Wine Spectator

"Massetino 2022 is made from 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, which plays an important role in a vintage as hot as this one. The two grape varieties form an impressive combination to create a wine with density, richness and dark fruit flavours, driven by a powerful 15% alcohol content. The philosophy behind the Massetino is to provide a more accessible side to the famous Masseto. The two wines share the same DNA in terms of fruit sourcing and winemaking. This edition is packed with black fruit, spice and toasty flavours. It offers an elegant tannic structure and also good freshness." Wine Advocate

"It is refined and fresh with a hint of sandalwood to the beautiful blue fruits. It has a medium body with creamy and polished tannins framing the blue fruits and a hint of crushed stone. Juicy and succulent with a crisp personality. You want to take a sip immediately. A second wine of the highest quality from Masseto. So drinkable and wonderful." James Suckling

"Massetino is considered the second wine of Masseto, but I am slowly coming to the conclusion that it is much more than that. It accounts for about a third of Masseto's production, and judging by the quality of this 2022, next year's Grand Vin release could be absolutely phenomenal. The wine is bright and stony, it has a lot of energy. It's tangy and flavoursome, combining fresh Mediterranean herbs and balanced fruit, with more verticality than the 2021 Masseto and just as much concentration. Incredible precision and beautiful freshness, especially considering the vintage." Decanter

Roagna's Barbaresco Pajè already has a great need to communicate in its youth and shows itself to be open-minded and with multi-layered flavours, full-bodied and harmoniously balanced. An extraordinary pleasure for the next 20 years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red in colour. Pajè unleashes itself in unerring volleys of raspberries and sour cherries as well as laurels and walnut shells, its shimmering, ethereal top note reminiscent of tarmac roads on the midsummer horizon. Mild spices such as cloves, black pepper and dried cherries are a recurring theme, like the title melody of a monumental soundtrack. Mercilessly dry on the palate with a beguiling extract sweetness. Grown on vines over 80 years old, the fruit and spice notes on the nose are accurately reflected on the palate and are encased in ripe, tightly woven tannins like Kevlar. Complex and multi-layered, it flows over the palate with a silky feel, almost floating, and its fruity, ethereal finish is almost weightless with an extra-long finish. Large glasses and time are the weapons of choice." Sebastian Bordthäuser (Sommelier und Wein-Journalist)

"Sparkling, medium-dense ruby-garnet colour. Finely characterised nose with notes of dried rose petals, strawberry and wild raspberry, some plum. Fills the palate full, finely sweet fruit with great melting, opens with present, savoury tannin, full-bodied and with firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"The Barbaresco Pajè 2018 is a brooding, introverted wine. Mineral and spicy notes dominate, while the fruit remains in the background. The Pajè has developed wonderfully since my first tasting a few months ago. The flavours in particular are very expressive. Like all the 2018s here, the Pajè is a Barbaresco of unobtrusive complexity. It will be interesting to see whether the lively tannins give way a little." Vinous

"Fresh, lively and straightforward in profile, even racy, this red wine shows flavours of strawberries, cherries, hibiscus, iron and cut hay, with a lively structure, fine harmony and a long, fruity and mineral finish." Wine Spectator

Intense ruby red with garnet reflections. On the nose, red berries, spices and a cornucopia of other aromas that only reveal themselves with further oxygenation. Fleshy, juicy, powerful and extremely precise and structured on the palate. At today's still very young age, one can only guess what it will become in further years of bottle ageing. A monument of wine - already today - the tannins soft, multilayered and captivating. This is the archetype of a Nebbiolo, which impressively demonstrates to every friend of the grape variety that it is not necessarily always the location, but also the quality of the grape and the subsequent wise vinification that makes it a real red and unforgettable royal wine of Italy. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, intense ruby with garnet rim. Very compact nose of blackberry, blueberry and some truffle. Gripping and dense on the palate, concentrated tannin, rich fruit, lots of plum and cherry, deep and earthy on the final." Falstaff

"The 2014 Barolo Vite Talin is robust, with broad shoulders and beautiful aromas of spice and herbs. There is a fullness and generosity to its meaty notes, while it shows a more rustic side when put side by side with the 2015: The tannins here make their presence well known, and the wine has a wild side overall. The Vite Talin is a wine that has a way of responding to difficult harvests like this one. The grapes survived for a reason, and what you get here is not your classic approach to Barolo at all. This expression explores new boundaries, and it will be a hard wine to forget. This Barolo was born following 25 years of experimentation, and only 2,200 precious bottles were made." Wine Advocate

"The 2014 Barolo Vite Talin is shaping up to be one of the wines of the vintage. A powerful, unctuous wine, it possesses off-the-charts intensity married with striking nuance. Dark red cherry jam, plum, lavender, spice, rose petal and mint are some of the many nuances that flesh out. In 2014, the Vite Talin is a wine of extraordinary finesse, nuance and classicism. It will spend two years in 500-liter barrels and a third year in cask. Tasting the 2014, I can only wonder why the other Barolos don't get the same élevage. I won't be surprised if the 2014 one day surpasses the 2013 - it is every bit that thrilling. Wow!" Vinous

With tireless dedication, the Bologna family fulfils the legacy of Giacomo Bologna, who is rightly described as the father of modern Barbera d'Asti. The historic jewel of the house is the Bricco dell'Uccellone: dense and complex on the nose, with blackberry jam, mocha, liquorice and cloves on the palate. Its fine-grained tannins and excellent structure carry it with beautiful fruit and acid wire into a long-lasting finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium, transparent garnet red colour with a slightly brightening rim. Very clear and clean on the nose, with appealing fruit flavours of ripe cherries and wild berries as well as hints of bread crust and light balsamic notes. Very juicy on the palate with tightly woven tannins, beautiful structure and well-integrated 16% alcohol, very long finish." Falstaff

"This is a no-nonsense wine loaded with complexity and depth, but in its core is pure joy. Aromas of sun-warmed crushed raspberries and black cherries mingle with fresh thyme, while clove, anise and cinnamon stick lift the nose. The well-structured palate is a dance between fresh and preserved wild berries, guided by lively acidity. Savory spice, herbs and white pepper linger on the finish, revealing a wine that's serious, but just wants to have fun." Wine Enthusiast

Every year, Fratta is a groundbreaking blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot that you can't help but love. Fratta proved the Veneto's potential for winemaking when it was first produced in 1977, the year Angela Maculan (a second daughter) was born. Deep, complex fruit bouquet, rounded off with fine sweet spices, tobacco and coffee. On the palate, beautiful lines and a sharp focus with dry mineral tones framing dark fruits, dried cherries and exotic spices. Fratta is a bold and big wine and there is no doubting the profound elegance of this highly personalised expression. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, almost impenetrable violet colour with ruby. Very fragrant nose of juicy cherries, cassis, some red pepper, violets and earth. Lots of sweet fruit on the palate, embedded in grippy, hard tannins, spicy, almost savoury, on bitter chocolate, still a little overhanging wood on the finish, still quite harsh on the final." Falstaff

"A deep and dense nose of redcurrants and black cherries and a hint of slightly charred oak. Medium bodied with a cool and crystalline feel on the palate. The tannins are still firm, but the super-pure fruit pushes through beautifully. Best from 2025." James Suckling

"Dark and balsamic in the glass, the 2018 Fratta displays aromas of crushed blackberry and wild blueberry accompanied by lavender, clove and camphor. This wine is supremely elegant and refined, with a polished wave of ripe red and blue fruits supported by a core of vibrant acidity, while cooling mineral tones provide a breezy lift towards the finish. This heady experience is emphasised by sweet tannins and a slightly bitter spiciness, while the 2018 finishes long and classically structured. The inner harmony that Maculan has captured here is breathtaking." Vinous

"A traditional and complex Bordeaux from Veneto. Notes of blackberry jam, black peppercorns, a hint of marjoram and nutmeg. Salty and fruity on the palate, with a spicy finish." Luca Gardini

Since summer 2023, Chianti Classico producers have been allowed to include the eleven additional geographical indications (UGA = unità geografiche aggiuntive) introduced in 2021 on the labels of the top Gran Selezione category. For Chianti Classico winegrowers, it is a logical step to produce wines that reflect the area in which they were produced as authentically as possible. And customers can thus deepen their knowledge of the relationship between the wines and their region of origin - a real added value.

As a result of extensive soil analyses, Francesco Ricasoli was able to identify three micro-vineyards, which will be vinified separately from the 2015 vintage onwards. In addition to the famous Castello di Brolio, the Chianti Classico Gran Selezione range now includes three cru sites (Colledilà, Roncicone and Ceniprimo), all of which are planted 100% with Sangiovese. In close correspondence with their terroir, they differ in structure and flavour and impressively demonstrate the complexity of the Chanti Classico region.

The Colledilà grapes come from the soils of Monte Morello. The 7.6-hectare single-vineyard plot was planted in 2002 on very rocky soils rich in calcium, clay and organic matter. These characteristics give this wine its sharpness and concentration, which promise long ageing in the cellar.

Ripe, dark cherry fruit and blackberry flavours, followed by tar, liquorice and potting soil. A fine earthiness, cherry and plum flavours on the palate, with finely knitted and slightly sweet tannins. The dense fruit and pleasant acid wire of the Sangiovese provide the necessary freshness. Masterfully composed! SUPERIORE.DE

"Mineral with smoky cherry fruit; super juicy style with fine red fruit fullness, vertical with elegant texture, polished tannins, juicy final." Weinwisser

"Noble, shiny ruby red colour. Dark and beguiling on the nose, notes of cold smoke, rosehip, cordial cherry and marzipan, comes in many layers. Ripe, juicy fruit on the palate on a finely woven tannin structure and animating acidity, great finesse and harmony through to the very persistent finish." Falstaff

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colledilà 2021 is bright, focussed and very expressive. Reddish fruit, blood orange, mint, spices and rose petals race across the palate. This lively, nuanced Gaiole Gran Selezione has so much to offer. Once again, the Colledilà is the most charming of the Gran Seleziones in this range." Vinous

"Evocative scents of jasmine, fennel and thyme flowers unfold against a dusty, stony background. The palate is concentrated, with dark cherries and blackberries surrounded by muscular tannins that have a very chalky texture. A powerful acidity unfolds on the finish. Still dense, with some wood notes to digest." Decanter

"Fresh and crisp with orange peel, cherries, raspberries and a hint of raw meat. It is medium-bodied with medium-round tannins and a juicy finish. Polished and creamy. Slightly chewy and crisp on the finish." James Suckling

"The Barone Ricasoli 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Gaiole Colledilà opens with dark fruit but, perhaps more importantly, with a slate-like mineral note that adds focus. This mineral note appears in all of these beautiful Gran Selezione wines from winemaker Francesco Ricasoli, but in the case of this bottle, it lends a dark or slightly brooding personality. The finish is absolutely savoury and salty." Wine Advocate

"Packed with cherry, raspberry and pomegranate flavours, this red is also juicy and almost racy in profile, with a deep vein of mineral and peppery spice notes that intensify on the long finish. It shows excellent balance and grace, and the best is yet to come." Wine Spectator

"A monumental "Grosse Auslese", from pure Sangiovese, from chalky-marly soils, with a strong presence of Alberese. The aroma is very rich, with notes of wild plums and eucalyptus, barley candy and laurel flavours. Spicy on the palate, with fruity notes and balsamic hints." Luca Gardini

Since summer 2023, Chianti Classico producers have been allowed to include the eleven additional geographical indications (UGA = unità geografiche aggiuntive) introduced in 2021 on the labels of the top Gran Selezione category. For Chianti Classico winegrowers, it is a logical step to produce wines that reflect the area in which they were produced as authentically as possible. And customers can thus deepen their knowledge of the relationship between the wines and their region of origin - a real added value.

As a result of extensive soil analyses, Francesco Ricasoli was able to identify three micro-vineyards, which will be vinified separately from the 2015 vintage onwards. In addition to the famous Castello di Brolio, the Chianti Classico Gran Selezione range now includes three cru sites (Colledilà, Roncicone and Ceniprimo), all of which are planted 100% with Sangiovese. In close correspondence with their terroir, they differ in structure and flavour and impressively demonstrate the complexity of the Chanti Classico region.

CeniPrimo is a single-varietal Sangiovese from soils characterised by a former river course. It is a 6.4 hectare plot that was planted in 1998 with a south-west exposure. This site is located in a valley along the Arbia river, and the soils here are very complex with alluvial soil and clay that contains little organic matter and less limestone.

Intense, fresh and bright bouquet of violets and wild spicy notes. Elegant acidity and fine mineral slate traces on the palate. Cherry, blackberry, plum, white pepper and a touch of rosemary lead this perfectly structured wine into a never-ending, multi-layered finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Very multi-faceted flavour with crisp raspberries, small cherries, wild berries and earthy nuances. Cool and firmly defined, grippy style, mineral nuances, savoury final. Needs time." Weinwisser

"Intense, sparkling ruby colour, slightly brightening garnet rim. Very clear nose, aromas of fresh plums and blackberries, some blood orange in the background. Polished on the palate, opens up with lots of fine tannins, juicy, spans a wide range." Falstaff

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione CeniPrimo 2021 is another powerful wine from Ricasoli. Here, it is the breadth and textural presence of the wine that stand out the most. Dark red fruits, dried flowers, spices and earthy notes abound. I would be tempted to give this wine a year or two in the bottle." Vinous

"The Barone Ricasoli 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Gaiole CeniPrimo shows a soft fruit structure with lots of sweet cherry and raspberry in the foreground. The grapes for this wine come from a vineyard planted in a muddy riverbed. As a result of these warm growing conditions, the CeniPrimo tends to have a fleshier fruit." Wine Advocate

"Medicinal herbs and vanilla weave through the dark red cherry. The ripe, dense, fleshy fruit is coated with plenty of dusty tannins, while zesty, citrusy acidity adds a refreshing, countering lift. It leaves resonant hints of leather, chinotto and earthy forest roots and deserves to cellar." Decanter

"This wine has a lot of energy with a crisp and lively flavour. Undertones of sour cherry, orange peel and cedar. It is medium-bodied, supple and racy. Very lively. Drinkable now, but better in a year or two when it comes together." James Suckling

"A ray of acidity runs through this sparkling red wine, giving it energy and driving its flavours of cherries, strawberries, minerals and spices. Ripe and supple at the same time, it firms up on the long and lively finish. All the elements together add up to great potential." Wine Spectator

The Spuntali vineyard is historically known as the best area of the south-west, sea-facing slope of Montalcino. Spuntali is a historic cru for Brunello di Montalcino: it is its unique terroir, it is also the sunniest and driest of the three slopes of Brunello, and the sea, just 40 kilometres away, already provides a Mediterranean climate here.

The Mediterranean generally plays a decisive role here, moderating the warm summer nights and cold winters. This enables an early reawakening of the plant in spring and an important day/night temperature change in summer. Due to these special climatic conditions, it is the vineyard whose grapes are harvested first in the appellation. Here, the Sangiovese takes advantage of the beneficial effects of the sun, reaches maximum ripeness and produces rather creamy wines with sweet, soft tannins and notes of candied fruit.

Deep ruby-garnet colour. Develops a warm, intense and refined bouquet of ripe fruit with notes of sour cherry, dried figs and candied fruit. On the palate, the sweet and soft tannins accompany the long finish, rich in notes of plums and blackberries. The palate is deeply layered with rich flavours of cherries, blackberries and dark fruits. There is plenty to discover in the background: spices, leather and balsamic herbs. All these elements are skilfully interwoven and make for a very impressive interpretation of the Sangiovese grape. SUPERIORE.DE

"Elegant, dark, bright ruby red colour. Savoury and inviting nose, precise aromas of cherries, graphite and Mediterranean herbs, with subtle hints of black tea on the finish. Beautiful juiciness and polished, present fruit on the palate, accessible, albeit complex, shows tightly woven tannins and plenty of finesse, has benefited from bottle ageing." Falstaff

"Though light and elegant, offering cherry, strawberry and floral flavors, this red also boasts dense tannins for its profile. Finds a nice equilibrium by the finish, despite the powdery tannins coating the gums." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Spuntali is wild, with more flowers than fruit, incense, wet stones and wild herbs. It opens with a pretty inner sweetness and a texture of pure silk that lays across the palate with ease, while tart wild berries nestle under a hint of purple flowers. Although tannic, it is only lightly structured, as the residual acids provide a framework that keeps the mouth watering while the hint of sweet rose slowly fades. The 2018 Vigna Spuntali is unlike any Brunello I've ever tasted, and yet I keep returning to this glass." Vinous

"Tarry red fruit, orange peel, dry earth and hints of new leather and shells. Juicy, medium-bodied on the palate with firm, creamy tannins and a long, spicy finish." James Suckling

"The Vigna Spuntali is located in the warm south-west of Montalcino on galestro and sandy soils. The wine is vinified in concrete tanks and then matures for six months in barriques and 18 months in large Slavonian oak barrels. Intense aromas of black and red cherries lead to a fresh and lively flavour of fleshy, juicy black and red berries and cherries, with strong tannins and a long finish. Weighty yet well balanced." Decanter

Since summer 2023, Chianti Classico producers have been allowed to include the eleven additional geographical indications (UGA = unità geografiche aggiuntive) introduced in 2021 on the labels of the top Gran Selezione category. For Chianti Classico winegrowers, it is a logical step to produce wines that reflect the area in which they were produced as authentically as possible. And customers can thus deepen their knowledge of the relationship between the wines and their region of origin - a real added value.

As a result of extensive soil analyses, Francesco Ricasoli was able to identify three micro-vineyards, which will be vinified separately from the 2015 vintage onwards. In addition to the famous Castello di Brolio, the Chianti Classico Gran Selezione range now includes three cru sites (Colledilà, Roncicone and Ceniprimo), all of which are planted 100% with Sangiovese. In close correspondence with their terroir, they differ in structure and flavour and impressively demonstrate the complexity of the Chanti Classico region.

Cru Roncicone comes from soils with maritime deposits. It is a 10.1 hectare plot that was planted between 1998 and 2000 with a density of 6,000 plants per hectare. The soils are rich in marine fossils with sand at the top and thicker clay beneath the topsoil. Our impression of this wine is that it is the most immediate and softly structured.

Deep dark, fruity and smoky bouquet. Dark, violet-coloured fruit on the palate, paired with notes of forest floor, tobacco and a beautiful spiciness. The volume is full and deep, the tannins are very accessible even at a young age and the finish is flanked by a well-structured acidity framework, which will also ensure very good ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"At first a little unapproachable, then clear Sangiovese fruit with crisp cherries, sour cherries and earthy-tobacco nuances. Taut and vertically orientated, energetic, tightly woven, powerful style." Weinwisser

"Brilliant, rich ruby colour with a fine garnet rim. Finely characterised nose with notes of fresh dark cherries, some raspberry and blood orange, plus rich spicy components. Good tension on the palate, shows lots of juicy fruit, opens up with fine tannins, balanced and with a long finish." Falstaff

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Roncicone 2021 is a powerful, intensely mineralised wine. In this tasting, the Roncicone is not particularly open-minded, but one of the most restrained wines in the range. The harvestwill find a Gran Selezione with a lot of minerality but little energy." Vinous

"Gentle and pretty in its aromas, it is decidedly red-fruited. It offers redcurrants and raspberries with a hint of porcini mushrooms and espresso. It feels medium-bodied but fills the mouth, its long, fine, sandy tannins providing an elegant flow. Mineral with tangy acidity, it shows the juicy character of Sangiovese." Decanter

"This Chianti Classico has a fresh and tangy character with notes of oranges, cherries and sandalwood. Medium-bodied with fine tannins and a creamy finish. The tannins are very light. It is drinkable now, but it will be even better in a year or two." James Suckling

"This red wine is a little shy today, revealing a core of ripe cherry, strawberry, rose and iron flavours supported by a lively acidity. Its tannins are refined and well integrated, while the finish is very long, savoury and intense." Wine Spectator

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Gaiole Roncicone 2021 offers energy and a great sense of concentration thanks to the elegant mineral tones of crushed shells and chalk that frame a core of elegant berry fruit. In fact, marine fossils are often discovered in this 10-hectare vineyard. I love the precision and straightforwardness of the silky and lingering finish. The personality is refined and subtle." Wine Advocate

"Transparent ruby red. Vines over 80 years old provide the material for this exceptional Barbaresco with a cathedral-like appearance on the nose: the ethereal balsamic superstructure with notes of sandalwood and incense, juniper and rosemary is complemented by fruity litanies of cherries, raspberry jam and blood oranges and adorned by floral overtones of violets, mallow and hollyhocks along with a pinch of white pepper. On the palate, it is precisely parted, of noble understatement and charming nature. The fine, long acidity gives it aristocratic polish, the ripe and tightly woven tannins coat it in the noblest thread. Delicate and transparent, the delicate fruit illuminates the entire palate. Conversations fall silent, glasses clink, laughter. Its approachable manner seems jovial, yet it is demanding with decisive insistence and epochal reverberation. Everyone is happy to obey." Sebastian Bordthäuser (Sommelier und Wein-Journalist)

"The 2017 Barbaresco Pajè Vecchie Viti is fascinating when tasted alongside the pure Pajè. The old-vine bottling shows more depth and power, along with a distinctly spicy note that is very seductive. Sweet dried cherries, spices, crushed flowers, mint and incense give the 2017 a remarkable depth. The tannins are a little unyielding today, so a couple of years of cellaring seems warranted at the very least." Vinous

"A silky, elegant red wine with aromas of flowers, strawberries and cherries and a hint of liquorice. Structured, with a slight bite on the finish. It offers good balance and expression with a long, detailed aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"The 2017 Barbaresco Pajè Vecchie Viti comes from the more prized old vines, all over 50 years old. Indeed, this expression reveals a greater sense of depth and detail with wild cherry, dark rose and orange peel. The bouquet is nuanced and refined, and the tannins melt away on a long finish. Roagna shines even in difficult vintages, and this bottle is a prime example." Wine Advocate

"Bright, medium dense garnet red. Intense and inviting nose with notes of plums, ripe cherries, saffron and some ginger. Firm and sturdy on the palate, showing plenty of grippy tannin, pithy, after ripe plums, some earthy notes on the final." Falstaff

"Transparent ruby red. The nose is reminiscent of a morning stroll in an oriental bazaar. The ethereal opening combines noble woods such as cedar and sandalwood until one enters the spice zone and juniper mixes with black pepper and cardamom as well as dark tobacco. The fruit vendors cheerfully offer cherries, raspberry jelly and preserved hibiscus blossoms, the florists have small violets on display. One of the market criers refreshes his bicycle chain with a quench of graphite and chews on a piece of liquorice with a smile. The ripe, leafy tannins of the Barolo Pira Vecchie Viti are tightly interwoven with extract-sweet fruit notes and the all-defining acid arc.

No component stands alone, but always functions in conglomeration with the other players. The wine is a strongly structural experience, powerful with a slender stature, comparable to Bruce Lee. Extract, tannin and vertical acidity show up punchy on the palate with a multi-layered, epic final. Big glasses and big cuisine are strongly advised here." Sebastian Bordthäuser (Sommelier und Wein-Journalist)

"The 2017 Barolo Pira Vecchie Viti amazes from the first sip. It offers a wild, heady bouquet combined with remarkable depth, with firm but polished tannins holding everything together. Sweet red fruits, blood orange, rose petals, cinnamon, dried herbs and star anise unfold as this rich yet classically austere Barolo shows what it's made of. It's a super-classic Roagna wine." Vinous

"The Roagna 2017 Barolo Pira Vecchie Viti also comes from the Castiglione Falletto vineyard, which is located directly below Rocche di Castiglione. The vines were planted in 1937 on this south-east facing slope. This wine shows a similar character with a strong sense of focus and linearity running through from the beginning to the end of the wine. Light mineral tones frame a core of fragrant fruit with crushed rose and limestone. This is a production of only 2,730 bottles." Wine Advocate

"Radiant, medium-dense ruby with garnet glints. Opens with notes of tobacco and liquorice, some truffle, then subtle raspberry notes. Gripping, tightly meshed tannin on the palate, builds up in many layers, then goes wonderfully into the depth, lots of ripe fruit but also discreet spices, long finish." Falstaff

Radiant ruby red with purple reflections. In the nose first cherry, then herbal spice, mint and essential oils. Noble woods like cedar and sandalwood mingle with traces of pipe tobacco, smoky tones and damp, autumnal forest floor. On the palate, cherry again, an opulent potpourri of wilted leaves, damp soil, truffles, plus a fine note of old leather. An incredibly complex wine from a famous single vineyard that will give pleasure for many decades to come. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2017 Barbaresco Montefico Vecchie Viti is absolutely beguiling. Of the 2017 vintage Barbarescos, the Montefico is the wine that most resembles it. The combination of the Montefico's austerity and textural breadth makes for an absolutely compelling Barbaresco on so many levels. Sweet red fruits, spice, chalk, mint and blood orange are just a few of the many aromas and flavours that develop into an intense, palate-pleasing finish. Outstanding." Vinous

"Bright, lightening ruby-garnet. Emphatically fragrant nose with lots of fresh fruit, of sour cherry, strawberry and rose petals. Fine-meshed, amazingly polished tannin, carries very long, after fresh plums and raspberries, nice drinking flow." Falstaff

"The 2017 Barbaresco Montefico Vecchie Viti (of which only 1,214 bottles were made) is extremely fine, direct and straightforward with an old-school Nebbiolo intensity that is hard to find in today's modern Barbarescos. The wine has a silky and fragile character with dried cherries, iris roots and iodine. Roagna's house style is characterised by very fine tannins, which can also be found in this vintage. Montefico comes from vines that grow on distinctive blue-grey marl soils." Wine Advocate

Luce Brunello is dark and impenetrable, as always in its more international style. On the palate, it delivers ripe and round fruit flavours of blackberries and plums with plenty of opulence, power and race. The comparatively warm year of 2017 has been superbly parried and we have here once again a wonderful Sangiovese interpretation very much in the style of the Frescobaldi family with wonderful melting, impressive length and suppleness. SUPERIORE.DE

"Multi-layered bouquet with forest fruit aromas spiced up with nuances of bitter chocolate, spices and roses; the attack is promising, the tannins tightly woven and well integrated, mineral facets, the finish full-bodied, fruit and elegance in perfect symbiosis." Vinum

"Elegant bouquet, very polished of the skilfully modern kind. Juicy but precisely worked out dark cherry, juicy plums, behind them sweet spicy notes of tobacco, mocha and cedar. Precise on the palate with polished enormously juicy fruit with lots of detail, sweet carpet-like but quite polished tannins, spicy fruity final." Weinwisser

"Nougat, coffee, dark fruit, elderberry, some plum, prune too; blueberry on the palate, clay grip, polished international style, clear and precise." Meiningers Sommelier

"Rich ruby with brightening garnet rim. Fine, rich, dark cherry, plus plum fresh from the tree, some tobacco in the background. On the palate beautifully elaborated fruit of cherry and raspberry, then opens with grippy tannin, embedded in sweet melting." Falstaff

"A classic style, floral, and very expressive. Intense in the mouth, with strong tannins wrapping the rich fruits, straw, and roasted coffee." Decanter

"The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Luce is an exuberant and flashy expression of Sangiovese. Just like the etched label design that features sunbeams, the wine radiates fresh fruit, cherry, spice, tar, licorice and grilled herb. The house style favors a contemporary and rich style of Sangiovese, and the wine's velvety approach is measured against the ample texture and fruit weight presented here. This warm 2017 vintage is well interpreted by the folks at Tenuta Luce." Wine Advocate

"The freshness and the floral aromas with citrus fruit and berries are startling for a 2017. The palate is full and extremely refined with elegant tannins and vivid fruit and orange-peel undertones. Racy and bright at the finish." James Suckling

A few years ago, Pio Boffa, who has sadly since passed away, bought himself a "small" present for his 60th birthday. Not a new set of golf clubs, a picture to hang in the hall, a holiday for him and his family. No. Just a vineyard called Mosconi in Monforte d'Alba, a region of Piedmont where four generations of the Pio Cesare dynasty were never able to gain a foothold. Originally, the grapes from the 10-hectare vineyard were intended to enhance the quality of his classic Barolo, but after the first barrel samples, Pio Boffa realised unmistakably that this would be at least an equal - albeit stylistically different - counterpart to the hitherto undisputed flagship Ornato.

Mosconi is more light-footed than Ornato, the nose is dominated by red rather than black fruit, with an irresistible liquorice and a juiciness that will immediately put it at the top of the entire appellation. On the palate, it has a precision that is unrivalled; it is less powerful than Ornato, but more elegant and subtle. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, shiny ruby-garnet colour. Mysterious nose, initially of cold black tea, then delicate earthy notes, then mint, cinchona bark, then delicate wild berry and raspberry fruit in the second area. Shows a lot of tannin and pressure on the palate, builds up like a pyramid, noble earthy tones on the finish, lingers for a very long time." Falstaff

"Mid-to-deep ruby with orange tinges. Less exalted that the Parusso version but with the same perfumed undertow and with savoury, minerally and oaky hints. Totally seductive palate of succulent, round fruit spiked with gripping tannins." Jancis Robinson

"This red wine with its cherry and raspberry fruit is ripe and lively, with a solid basic structure. It gains depth with notes of iron, liquorice and tar, while a salty note emerges on the long, intense finish. Ripe, with a sense of restraint - a fascinating combination." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Barolo Mosconi is a great wine from this vineyard. Rich and explosive, the 2019 offers plenty of Mosconi intensity along with the more classic sense of structure that is now a signature of the house. Dark red fruits, sage, blood orange, tobacco and cedar all come through beautifully in this dramatic, full-bodied Barolo." Vinous

"The Pio Cesare 2019 Barolo Mosconi offers the structure and length of a Nebbiolo from Monforte d'Alba. You also get a salty mineral tone or rusty iron framing a core of wild berries and blackcurrants. The Mosconi always strikes me as very straightforward and direct, and this particular sharpness is what I like best about this vintage." Wine Advocate

"Macerated raspberries combine with wild roses and crushed chalk in this evocative wine that captivates from the first sniff. Mixed cherries emerge on the palate, dusted with aniseed, liquorice and savoury herbs, with superfine tannins leading to a long finish that I wish would never end." Wine Enthusiast

"Cru Mosconi, the house's latest acquisition, a perfect snapshot of the Monforte terroir. Dogwood on the nose, with notes of pink grapefruit and clove, in the mouth with iodised tannins, crisp and exciting, beautiful finish." Luca Gardini

"The flavours of blue fruits such as raspberries and blueberries are very pronounced. Liquorice. Crushed stone. Violets. Full-bodied. So noble with ultra-fine tannins that last forever. Wonderful depth with cool and concentrated fruit. A lively and sophisticated wine with power and finesse. A classic." James Suckling

Luce Brunello is dark and impenetrable, as always in its more international style. On the palate, it delivers ripe and round fruit flavours of blackberries and plums with plenty of opulence, power and breed. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich and full-bodied, this juicy red shows aromas of cherry, blackcurrant and Mediterranean scrub, with hints of graphite, underpinned by muscular tannins that come through on the finish. Very balanced overall." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is generous and open in personality. It shows sweet cherries, dried raspberries, spices and fragrant roses." Wine Advocate

"Sparkling, rich ruby with a fine garnet shimmer. Quite restrained on the nose, then opens up with notes of rose petals and tea, rich spicy components in the background. Firm and grippy on the palate, shows plenty of grippy tannin, substantial and structured, but still needs longer ageing." Falstaff

"A finely structured and concentrated Brunello with a complex palette of cherries, blackberries, dried roses, bark, liquorice and a hint of praline. Also iodine and oyster shells. Medium to full body with firm, very fine tannins. Nice texture and balance. Remains fresh and fine until the end. To be tasted from 2025." James Suckling

Roagna's Barbaresco Pajè Vecchie Viti opens with a bright garnet-red colour and a deep, shiny glow. The fruit of old vines manages to reach the impossible point between power and elegance. The wine shows a delicate and bright bouquet, but also a compact fruit and a long finish. You can feel this extra fullness on the finish. The production is around 2,500 bottles. SUPERIORE.DE

"Transparent ruby red colour. Vines over 80 years old provide the material for this exceptional Barbaresco with a cathedral-like appearance on the nose: the ethereal-balsamic superstructure with notes of sandalwood and incense, juniper and rosemary is complemented by fruity litanies of cherries, raspberry jam and blood oranges and adorned with floral overtones of violets, mallow and hollyhocks along with a pinch of white pepper. On the palate, the wine is precisely pared, elegantly understated and charming. The fine, long, taut acidity gives it an aristocratic polish, while the ripe, tightly woven tannins envelop it in the finest thread. Delicate and transparent, the delicate fruit illuminates the entire palate.

Conversations fall silent, glasses clink, laughter. His approachable manner seems jovial, yet he is demanding and emphatic with an epochal echo. Everyone gladly obeys." Sebastian Bordthäuser (Sommelier und Wein-Journalist)

"Sparkling, brightening ruby-garnet colour. Wonderful nose with rich notes of wild raspberry, plum and rose petals, plus some beeswax. Lots of substantial tannin on the palate, opens up in many layers, spans a wide arc, firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"The Barbaresco Pajè Vecchie Viti 2018 is characterised by a striking inner sweetness. The Vecchie Viti is powerful and deep, but not in an obvious way. It has more inner sweetness and also more structure than the pure Pajè, but also less obvious depth, as strange as that may sound. Above all, I admire its freshness. It will be interesting to see how it develops in the bottle." Vinous

"This pure red wine shows flavours of cherry, raspberry, rose and liquorice, underlined by mineral and tobacco elements. Taut and straightforward, with the essence of fruit, floral and mineral notes, it shows great harmony and length in an elegant frame." Wine Spectator

Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is arguably the richest wine in Vietti's vintage roster. It is a monument based on performance, intensity and power. At the same time, Rocche is incredibly precise and complex every year. It is precisely this interplay of fullness and finesse that makes Rocche so enticing. Rose petals, mint and sweet red berries form a crescendo of aromas and textures that appeals to all the senses. In the almost endless reverberation, everything comes back into harmony as if by magic, leaving behind a Nebbiolo experience of the third kind. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, intense ruby with a fine garnet rim. The nose is characterised by intense notes of rose petals, ripe plums, some goji berries and cinchona bark in the background. Substantial and savoury on the nose, spreads out richly, dark fruit, then quite brittle tannin on the back end." Falstaff

"This red is vibrant, aromatic and expressive, exuding rose, strawberry, cherry, licorice, tobacco and tar flavors. Firm and balanced, with refined tannins and a racy finish." Wine Spectator

"Vietti's mighty 2017 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is extremely polished and sharp, showing the smallest details with microscope-like precision in this release of 3,512 bottles. Tart cherry fruit segues to spice, tarry smoke, licorice and a chiseled sense of minerality that adds ample volume and considerable focus. The wine displays alternating moments of dryness, with layers of cherry sweetness, and all this movement adds to the fluid, ever-changing nature of the bouquet. Vintage after vintage, this wine continues to push the boundaries for Barolo made in Castiglione Falletto." Wine Advocate

"The 2017 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione shows all the signatures of this site, all turned up to the maximum. I am not sure I have ever tasted a Vietti Castiglione with this much heft. Super-ripe dark red fruit, rose petal, mocha, dried herbs and menthol all build in an ample, resonant Barolo. Readers should be prepared to cellar the 2017 for the next handful of years, perhaps longer. A whole range of floral and savory notes punctuates the explosive finish." Vinous

"Exuberant and expressive, it overflows with sweet herbs, warm wetland, forest berries, black tea and bergamot. Though quite a mouthful, it remains well-hone as bright acidity lifts and sophisticated tannins wrap around the palate. A stunning wine with impressive mineral persistence. Vietti’s plots are in the central stretch of this MGA where the soil is richer in marl as opposed to sandier parcels further south. Luca Currado credits Rocche di Castiglione’s gentle southeast exposure - which escapes the hot afternoon sun - for maintaining freshness and fragrance in 2017." Decanter

"There’s clarity and energy to this, offering sweet strawberries and watermelon with fresh-rose and sandalwood undertones. Full-bodied with plenty of tannins, which are ultra-fine and polished for the vintage, giving the overall impression of elegance and finesse. Long. Classy." James Suckling

Text will follow shortly. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, brightening ruby colour with a fine garnet rim. Multi-layered nose, opens with notes of light tobacco, some cold smoke, then dried orange peel, cranberry and sour cherry, some cinchona bark in the background. Delights the palate with finely woven tannins in many layers, builds up long and continuously, extremely polished, long and salty on the final." Falstaff

"The 2018 Barbaresco Asili Vecchie Viti is often one of my favorites in the range, as it is again this year. Silky tannins, sweet perfumed aromatics, succulent cherty fruity and cedar are some of the aromas and flavors that grace this wonderfully expressive, caressing Barbaresco. Luca Roagna nailed the balance here. The 2018 is ethereal, but also not light. If anything, it has plenty to say. This should be terrific with a bit of time in bottle." Vinous

"Showing succulent cherry, raspberry, rose hip, eucalyptus, green tea and white pepper aromas and flavors, this expressive red is bursting with energy, while moderate tannins shore up the terrific saline aftertaste. Offers fine balance." Wine Spectator