Falstaff

Complex and multi-layered classic from the old master of Nebbiolo from Piedmont. On the nose cedar, plum, red fruits, undergrowth and some rose scent. Balanced, spicy taste, the tannins firm and the finish precise and long. This muscular monument of a red wine definitely needs a few more years of bottle ageing, with a little patience it will transform into pure elegance! SUPERIORE.DE

"Tart, firm, tobacco, rose-scented and reminiscent of dried leaves, also a hint of cedar, with restrained red berry aromas, a little black berries, dried flowers and earthy tones. Firm and tart-juicy in the mouth, nutty, dried floral and slightly tarry aromas, present, ripe, rather fine tannin, persistent on the palate, rather concentrated, yet for all its power also fine and elegant, relatively bright style, ethereal nuances, a hint of truffle in the background, earthy-salty mineral tones, a hint of coffee grounds in the background, complex, still undeveloped, quite deep, again a hint of tar, very good to long, juicy, finely spicy, complex aromatic finish. Still needs a bit of time, even if it already has plenty of charm now." Wein-Plus

"Sparkling, brightening ruby garnet. Very clear and present nose with distinct notes of fresh plums, pomegranate and rhubarb, balanced. Exceedingly polished on the palate, lots of fine-meshed tannin, spreads out clearly and continuously, juicy fruit, salty on the final." Falstaff

"The 2018 Barbaresco has really come together nicely since I last tasted it. A super-classic wine, the 2018 offers up soaring aromatics, mid-weight structure and fine balance. Pure, transparent and impeccable in its balance, the 2018 is just sublime today. Time has been so beneficial here. Crushed red berry, spice, mint and rose petal grave this effusive, refined Barbaresco from Gaja." Vinous

"This red is beautifully defined by the purity of its cherry fruit, accented by floral, strawberry and mint. Juicy and graceful, with a line of moderate tannins on the extended finish." Wine Spectator

"The Gaja 2018 Barbaresco is a wine of grace and purpose, with an elegant bouquet and a more powerful palate presence. These recent releases from the venerated house of Gaja are some of the most transparent and honest expressions to be found anywhere in the Langa. Some of the flashiness we saw in the past is today replaced by subtle Nebbiolo nuances and finesse, with crushed flowers, coriander, wild berry, smoke, tar and candied orange peel. This shift in character runs parallel to the slow and careful management transition from an older generation to a younger one. This 2018 vintage comes alive in the mouth, thanks to its balanced acidity and the absolutely bright and pristine quality of fruit delivered with such care." Wine Advocate

"In 2018 Gaja did not produce any Sorì. All the grapes of San Lorenzo and Tildin have been used for this Barbaresco instead. 'It was a classic vintage, similar to 1991 or 1993,' said Rossana Gaja, 'however with 14% of alcohol.' It was cool and damp, so don't look for concentration, but the refinement and the freshness of this wine packs a punch. Scents of red berries, fresh violets, orange peel, wet slate and soft chocolate are followed by red fruit flavours. It's medium-bodied, loaded with polished tannins and lit up by racy acidity. More stylish than ageworthy, in my experience classic vintages such as this can give stunning results in the near term." Decanter

"Aromas of ripe strawberries with hazelnuts, blood oranges and some coconut. Full-bodied with very refined and polished tannins that nicely form this young red wine. Fresh and delicious aftertaste of berry, cedar, bark and dark chocolate. Ever so subtle, yet powerful and driven at the finish. Very long and intense. Very classical style to it and cooler. This is a blend of seven vineyards including the Costa Russi and Sori Tilden. Approachable now, but better after 2025 and onwards." James Suckling

Rare exceptional Merlot from the west of Tuscany: Deep ruby red with violet reflections. Multi-layered bouquet with hints of wild berries and blackberries, ripe cherries, but also liquorice and tobacco notes. Very structured and at the same time lively on the palate. The silky tannins underline the filigree minerality until the seemingly endless finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"This lush, silky red is introduced by deep aromas of black cherry and blackberry, with hints of chocolate, coffee, vanilla and minerals that develop into a long, complex aftertaste. Despite its richness, it also has finesse and detail." Wine Spectator

"Bright, rich ruby, Intense and fine nose with notes of blackberry, wild raspberry, then mint and Mediterranean herbs. On the palate marked by hearty, dense tannin, entwined with lots of sweet melting, fine spice on the back end, finishes on sweet tobacco, but also needs some time." Falstaff

"Aromas of cigar box, black plums, cherries, mocha and toasted walnuts. Full-bodied with firm, taut and chewy tannins. Structured and deep with sophisticated oak spice character. Still tight at the moment. Yet very fine and elegant. Finesse for Redigaffi. Give it a few years to show even more. Try it in 2026." James Suckling

"The nose begins sweet and classic, like berries dipped in vanilla and chocolate, and then expands to include a riot of wild herbs. On the palate, the interplay between chocolaty berries and savory undertones continues before a burst of acidity and tannins that are so fine-grained and smooth they're almost ethereal. It's magical now but no doubt will be even better after some time." Wine Enthusiast

"The Tua Rita 2020 Redigaffi is the winery's top wine, made from Merlot. The bouquet smells of dark fruits, dried apricots, spices, leather and ashes from the campfire. You can taste the special fullness and concentration in this full-bodied red wine. On the palate, the Redigaffi is soft and approachable with rich layering and texture." Wine Advocate

Terlano I (pronounced Primo) Grande Cuvée is the name of the white flagship of Cantina Terlano. In recent years, the winery has made a name for itself worldwide with its long-lasting, mineral white wines. Even years later, the wines still present themselves with top freshness and great complexity. With this long history of white wines, since the 2011 vintage there is now a wine in which the essence of Terlan is expressed in an even more focussed way. Terlaner I Grande Cuvée combines the Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay and Sauvignon grape varieties from the Winkl, Kreuth and Vorberg vineyards to create a masterpiece which, due to its limited and exclusive nature, will only be available from hand-picked retailers and in selected top restaurants.

Brilliant straw yellow colour. Rich and complex on the nose with flavours of citrus fruit, white pepper and herbs as well as a delicate smoky note. Remarkable structure and refined texture that give it finesse, elegance and an unmistakable character. The extraordinarily long and salty finish leaves an almost endless impression as an expression of a unique mineral terroir. SUPERIORE.DE

"Highly refined and multi-layered fragrance with fine citrus, pink grapefruit and aromatic herbs. Something fascinating, almost primal with this distinctive herbal flavour. Wonderfully melting on the palate at first, but changes constantly in the glass and after a few minutes it appears very powerful with a delicate style and a juicy, vertical final, which is carried by the acidity and the spicy underlying fruit. What always fascinates me about these wines is the silky, melting mouthfeel with a refined texture." Weinwisser

"Brilliant light straw yellow with green nuances. Very clear and memorable nose, flavours of apricot, white peach, some mango, underpinned by flint and hazelnuts, exciting. Juicy and present on the palate, very clear, lots of fresh yellow fruit, salty, very long final." Falstaff

"The Terlaner Grande Cuvée Primo 2020 presents itself with a delicate blend of dusty stone, freshly spiced pear, white flowers and crushed raw almonds. It is elegance personified, silky yet lively. A hint of hazelnut custard enriches the notes of young peach, while a hint of minerality builds towards the end. The Primo finishes dramatically long yet youthfully tense, leaving a saturation of primary fruit that lingers under a bloom of citrus. The word "wow" doesn't do this wine justice. The 2020 is still a baby today. Is it Grande Cuvée or Grand Cru? Either way, it's fantastic." Vinous

"Layers of stone fruit and vanilla spice on the nose; tremendously intense and focused with mouthwatering acidity and a core of youthful citrus fruit that carries through to the long and well-defined finish. Fabulous and will only get better with age." Decanter

"It's so beautiful, with candied apples, peach peel, honeysuckle and almond biscuits. Also a hint of candied citrus and dried Mediterranean herbs. Full-bodied, so complex and concentrated. Impressively balanced and polished, with a structured mouthfeel and a delicate phenolic impression on the finish. Very long. Beautiful now, but there's no doubting its longevity." James Suckling

"The Terlaner Grand Cuvée Primo is all about texture. This beautiful wine bears the unique characteristics of oak and yeast ageing, which give it a delicate creaminess. It has plenty of richness and softness, followed by white wine tannins. Its rich and viscous mouthfeel is a perfect sounding board for lemon curd, caramel cream and the gelatine on a fruit tart." Wine Advocate

Harvested a little later than usual, the 2019 Masseto benefited from the sunny, mild climate at the beginning of September, which gave it richness and balance at the same time. Its youthful colour foreshadows a rich and intense wine. On the nose, brave notes of ripe cherries, violets, liquorice and bitter chocolate. On the palate, it spans a large peacock's wheel around the voluminous fruit core; as it progresses, it shows itself envelopingly lush with its velvety and fine tannins. The long final is fresh and very elegant. Great potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"A potpourri of deep berry-earthy, but also pleasantly tart aromas fills the nose after some aeration; on the palate, the wine is opulent, but also polished and with a lot of enigmatic character, the finish a symbiosis between finesse and structure. Already great in the previous year, but even a touch more intriguing in 2019, a splendid specimen of a great Merlot with a touch of Toscanità!" Vinum

"Shiny, intense ruby violet. Intense and inviting nose, first some smoke and liquorice, then lots of blackberry, prunes and black cherry, fine spice in the background. Blooms grandly on the palate, lots of juicy fruit, opens up in many layers, reverberates for a very long time, precise and fine." Falstaff

"Aromas of iris, raspberry, camphor and Mediterranean scrub mingle with oak-driven spice on this 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc. Enveloping and concentrated, it also possess remarkable, almost weightless finesse, delivering black currant, Morello cherry, fruitcake and star anise alongside smooth, velvety tannins. Fresh acidity lifts the finish." Wine Enthusiast

"The Masseto 2019 has two main themes at heart: concentration and elegance. And managing those two seemingly contrasting elements requires a little bit of magic. That's the Masseto magic we look for. The 2019 vintage delivers it in spades with lovely concentrated fruit, blackberry, integrated spice, tobacco, crushed slate, pencil shaving and lots of texture and fiber to push a lasting mouthfeel. The wine's richness translates into density and power to the palate, meanwhile the bouquet reveals fluidity and new sides as the wine opens in the glass. The finish is tapered and focused." Wine Advocate

"Tightly wound now, with blackberry, black currant, iron, rosemary, cedar and toasty oak spice aromas and flavors. Though firm and compact, this has plenty of fruit that persists on the vibrant, lingering and complex finish. Reveals very refined tannins." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Masseto is fabulous. Silky, gracious and super-refined, the 2019 is a total knock-out. So often Masseto is a powerhouse at this stage, but the 2019 is so elegant, so precise. This is the first year that includes Cabernet Franc, 10% in this case. I can’t say I am at all surprised given how much Franc has added to Massetino. Red berry fruit, mocha, cinnamon and blood orange lend freshness throughout." Vinous

"Intense aromas of blackberries and black olives, together with hints of rosemary bush and lavender. Perfumed and nuanced. Full-bodied, yet so tight and integrated, with weightless tannins that frame the wine in a precise and curated fashion. Very structured and built for aging. It’s rather shy now, but will reward those who are patient. A kind of stealth in its nature. A more thought-provoking edition of Masseto. Needs time to show its true self. Try after 2027." James Suckling

"Masseto 2019 will be remembered as the first release with a bracing 10% of Cabernet Franc. Nevertheless, its poised wild fennel aroma with restrained bramble fruit, straw, graphite and balmy Mediterranean depth continues to finely represent the terroir of Bolgheri more than simply its grape varieties. The blue clay gives to the wine density - this year with a larger shoulder - grainy, ripe tannins and great fruit concentration sustained by enticing acidity and a sweet tobacco aftertaste. A sleek wine chiselled to perfection. It will keep going strong for decades." Decanter

"An expression of elegance in Serralunga", Luca Currado underlines at the tasting of Lazzarito, and we already agree with him on the nose. Gravel, pebbles, red fruits, rose petals, lavender and sage permeate this plastic and very lively Serralunga Barolo. Baroli from Serralunga d'Alba are often in a category of their own thanks to their richness and sheer abundance of fruit. The balsamic symphony opens the doors to a sip that is undoubtedly powerful, but at the same time refreshing and rich in vitamins. With added aeration, Lazzarito delivers mint and balsamic herbs. Lazzarito sets the pace and never loses its rhythm, the great texture of the tannins flanks this palate spectacle in an ideal way and we will discover much more about this great Barolo in the years to come. SUPERIORE.DE

"The round dance opens with fine-smelling notes of red berries and pepper; the attack is full-bodied, the tannins delicately chiselled and in symbiosis with the acidity, perfect evolution, elegant final. Great wine that can still mature." Vinum

"Blood oranges, red berries and hazelnuts; above all, lots of firm structure, casually austere and very taut, crisp and fresh, has a citrus touch and leafy notes, juniper, dark minerality, enormous tension, a still brittle beauty with lots of character, glides finely fruity into the long finish; super potential." Weinwisser

"Sparkling, brightening ruby garnet. Open and inviting nose with notes of cranberry, rose, pomegranate and dried orange peel. Grippy and grippy tannins fuel this wine, fine cherry and orange notes, final with leather, long finish." Falstaff

"On the nose, this wine is quite flamboyant, showing raspberries and grainy notes, along with a hint of fresh mushrooms. With air, some lighter passion fruit comes through. Medium-bodied with an intense core of vibrant fruit and youthful tannins that will add length and breadth to the wine over time. Wait for this wine. Taste it from 2024." James Suckling

"The 2018 Barolo Lazzarito is tense, lively and very closed in on itself. Burning tannins and serralunga structure dominate today. Gravel, pebbles, red fruits, rose petals, lavender and sage run through this plastic, vibrant Serralunga Barolo. What distinguishes Lazzarito most today is that it is stylistically more similar to the other Barolos than it was a few years ago. I expect great things here with time." Vinous

"Round and full of plum, cherry, pomegranate, green tea and eucalyptus aromas, this red wine is also dense and muscular. The finish is dominated by grippy tannins. Overall, it is balanced and very long." Wine Spectator

"Serralunga d'Alba, a magnificent site in the shape of an amphitheatre, with calcareous clay soil. A Barolo of excellent muscularity, nose with notes of wild mint, then raspberry and white pepper. The mouthfeel has spicy-salty tannins, depth, with great persistence and fruity return." Luca Gardini

"The 2018 Barolo Lazzarito represents Vietti's interpretation of Serralunga d'Alba, the village often associated with the appellation's most powerful wines. The Lazzarito completes its second fermentation in barrique over three months and is then transferred to large oak bottles where it ages for a further two years. With around 8,000 bottles produced in this smaller vintage, the wine is very indicative of its geographical origin with dense black fruit, rusty nail, blood orange and earth. Compared to the other wines in this series, this wine offers more persistent tannins. It's still a little salty and spicy now, but it lends itself well to long ageing." Wine Advocate

Limited special edition with engraved bottle label!

Rich, concentrated Bordeaux-style red with the unmistakable signature of top oenological consultant Stéphane Derenoncourt. Multi-layered black fruit on the nose, plus rock, liquorice, camphor and graphite. Impressively supple on the palate, the fruit is always juicy and centred, wonderful and almost perfect in structure, polish, elegance and length. SUPERIORE.DE

"La Massa has been one of the best producers of Chianti Classico since the 1990s. Its mature, viscous colour appears older than 2019. Rich and concentrated, the Giorgio Primo brings out the classic Tuscan sweetness in the nose, is very spicy and full, with slightly matured accents here too. Very appealing and with a lot of Cabernet character, it appears sweeter than other Tuscan Bordeaux blends, for example from Bolgheri. Very smooth and round, meltingly sweet, yet with a slightly strict, consistent acidity. Beautiful, powerful appearance, not designed for decades of development, but rather immediately accessible, clearly structured and with a sweet, generous finish." Weinwisser

"Rich, deep dark ruby colour with a slight violet tinge. Very clear and intense nose, with rich notes of blackcurrants, black cherries and plums, with a hint of ginger in the background. The attack and finish are very polished, lots of fine-meshed tannins, builds up plenty of pressure, with a long, savoury aftertaste of tobacco." Falstaff

"Wonderful aromas of blackcurrants and blackberries with notes of crushed stones and walnuts. Full-bodied, firm and chewy tannins with blackberries and hints of chocolate and spices. Flavourful and intense on the finish. Better after 2023, but also very nice now." James Suckling

"The nose is reminiscent of a summer barbecue with clouds of smoky meat mingling with dark, luscious berries and fruit. On the palate, dessert arrives with a slice of berry pie, but peppery spiciness and burning tannins provide balance through a bitter, refined, lingering finish." Wine Enthusiast

"The Fattoria La Massa 2018 Giorgio Primo is a wine of richness, volume and texture. The blend consists of 55 % Cabernet Sauvignon, 40 % Merlot and 5 % Petit Verdot. The maceration time is 26 to 28 days and gives the wine the beautiful depth and creaminess that you can taste here. The bouquet is reminiscent of black fruits, crushed stones, truffles and roasted spices. The full-bodied structure of the wine and its freshness promise long ageing in the cellar." Wine Advocate

"The Giorgio Primo 2018 represents a new level of finesse at La Massa. Powerful and dense in the glass, with tremendous structure, the Giorgio Primo is a great example of how compelling international varieties are in the Conca d'Oro area of Panzano. Crème de cassis, spices, new leather, chocolate and sweet spices build up on the structured, intensely flavoured finish." Vinous

Produced only in the best vintages and in small quantities, this Riserva follows the classic promise of a traditional and powerful Brunello that becomes softer and better with age. Brilliant deep red colour. Fragrant aromas of raspberries and blueberries, emphasised by violets, incense and cinnamon. Wonderfully sweet and penetrating on the palate, but light on its feet, with real class and energy, not to mention the powerful minerality of the densely packed flavours of red berries, pomegranate, tobacco and wild herbs. The finish is very long, supple and subtle with very fine tannins. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich in finesse, incredibly multi-layered, very lively nose with a pressing blood orange, citrus fruit, candied cherries, incredibly elegant palate, really pushes forward, powerful, super linear and tightly meshed in the final. Grandiose, salty-mineral style that shows how complex and subtle the 2018 vintage could be. Like a great Barolo." Weinwisser

"Promising bouquet of raspberries and violets; precise structure with acidity, juice and long-lasting tannins, finishing on plum and pepper notes, plus nuances of undergrowth and herbs. Pure tradition, always reliable." Vinum

"Bright, clear ruby red colour with a sparkling core. Dried tomato, rich cherry fruit, rosemary, fine spice and slightly stony, earthy components on the nose. Very elegant on the palate with polished, profound berry fruit, constantly juicy, great." Falstaff

"Brilliant medium ruby red colour with bright orange reflections. Complex, savoury and full of mineral and salty notes on the nose, while the fruit is still a little closed. Fluid, polished, sweet raspberry and cherry fruit and sweetish tannins. Long and elegant, yet full of fruit." Jancis Robinson

"The Riserva from Poggio di Sotto is selected from a single 30-hectolitre barrel and normally remains in wood for a full 45 months. In 2018, however, the time in barrel was reduced to just 30 months to preserve the freshness and elegance of the vintage, and this really comes through in the wine. With a little coaxing, it emerges from its reductive cocoon to reveal nuances of chestnut and flint, before blossoming with thyme and lavender. Graceful and streamlined, the medium-bodied palate resounds with red cherry, orange peel and an inherent juiciness. The tannins are silky and seamless, and there's an appetising crunch of wild berries on the finish that lingers. With proper decanting, it's delicious now but will continue to charm for at least a decade." Decanter

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is youthfully restrained, exuding a floral blend of sweet herbs, crushed stones and wild strawberries. It's soft and round with a pretty inner sweetness up front and mineral, wild berry fruit driven by juicy acidity. A core of grippy tannins lingers on the perfumed yet nuanced final, while traces of violet pastille fade away." Vinous

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva from Poggio di Sotto was restrained when I tasted it, probably due to a certain awkwardness in such a young sample. This bottle should be given more time, as tasted now, it was definitely poured before its prime. The bouquet begins with austere aromas of oil paintings or waxed antiques, but these quickly fade. An exciting composition of redcurrants, cherry peel, rose petals and floral potpourri then unfolds. On the palate, the wine is very lively, with fresh berry fruit, integrated acidity and fine, chalky tannins. This wine also needs more time in the bottle." Wine Advocate

"Very leafy and savoury in a positive sense, with notes of kiwi peel, stone fruit, leather, straw and liquorice. Smooth palate with full body, almost silky tannins and refreshing acidity. Fresh fruit flavours of orange peel and peaches. Taut, youthful finish that is precise and long." James Suckling

Poggio Valente comes from a single vineyard of the same name at an altitude of around 300 metres. Opulent floral and small-fruited Sangiovese nose with optimally nuanced hints of tobacco, cedar and mint. Precise on the palate with plenty of pressure and power, then towards the end the furious resolution of all the well-dosed components in a fine, silky texture and an unforgettable, long final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Wonderfully clear red-fruity bouquet with cherries, wild berries and wonderful floral (lavender, roses) and spicy notes. Still very delicate, but juicy and elegant as well as precisely woven with a lively style, lives from the red berry fruit, the fine tannin riff and the wonderfully ethereal freshness with wonderful liquorice notes on the final." Weinwisser

"Brilliant, medium ruby colour with reflections. Initially delicate and subtle on the nose, with a little oxygen the wine opens up with aromas of black cherries and cedar wood. Elegant fruity sweetness on the palate, with fine tannins and a beautiful tension to the final." Falstaff

"Pure Sangiovese from the coast, also animating in this vintage: notes of forest fruits, blackberries, pepper and violets in the multi-faceted bouquet; precise construction with perfectly integrated, well-built tannins and vivid acidity, combining polish and length." Vinum

"The 2021 is ripe and silky, showing an intensity of soft, creamy red fruit with a lovely mineral note. Pure, balanced and precise, it is not quite as vertical as some of its predecessors, but instead has an appealing roundness." Decanter

"Ripe flavours of plum, black cherry and blackberry accentuate this dense red wine, whose lively structure conveys an energetic feel. Notes of earth, iron, eucalyptus and spice add complexity on the finish, with an aftertaste of fruit, wild undergrowth and spice." Wine Spectator

"This pure Sangiovese wine is celebrating its 25th anniversary. I was told that it is made according to a Burgundian model. The Fattoria le Pupille 2021 Poggio Valente offers good fruit concentration, freshness and an open character. It has a lot of character of red fruits, iris, blue flowers and earth, and the tannins are present, albeit powdery." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of cherries, chocolate and walnuts. Some undertones of lavender and rose petals. Medium-bodied, with superfine tannins and notes of chocolate and vanilla. Give it time to open up." James Suckling

Terlano I (pronounced Primo) Grande Cuvée is the name of the white flagship of Cantina Terlano. In recent years, the winery has made a name for itself worldwide with its long-lasting, mineral white wines. Even years later, the wines still present themselves with top freshness and great complexity. With this long history of white wines, since the 2011 vintage there is now a wine in which the essence of Terlan is expressed in an even more focussed way. Terlaner I Grande Cuvée combines the Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay and Sauvignon grape varieties from the Winkl, Kreuth and Vorberg vineyards to create a masterpiece which, due to its limited and exclusive nature, will only be available from hand-picked retailers and in selected top restaurants.

Brilliant straw yellow colour. Rich and complex on the nose with flavours of citrus fruit, white pepper and herbs as well as a delicate smoky note. Remarkable structure and refined texture that give it finesse, elegance and an unmistakable character. The extraordinarily long and salty finish leaves an almost endless impression as an expression of a unique mineral terroir. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, pale straw yellow colour with green components. Intense and very clear nose, impressive, starts with notes of flint, then white peach, apricot and grapefruit, very clear and precise, fresh sage in the background. Juicy and extremely round in attack and finish, fresh apricot and grapefruit, salty on the final, very long finish, spans a wide range." Falstaff

"A hint of fragrant spices and white flowers surround the flavours of ripe pineapple, tangerine peel, white cherry and Marcona almond. The palate is expressive and rich, but the mouth-watering acidity provides a smooth and harmonious frame without excessive weight. This beautiful version is long and lush on the finish, where a mineral underpainting emerges to linger alongside the beautiful profile." Wine Spectator

"The Terlaner I Primo Grande Cuvée 2021 is intense and mineral from the start. It opens with a beguiling blend of flint, camphor and white smoke, before moving on to dried peaches and apricots. The palate is ripe yet refined, with a silky texture that takes on a saline note as tart fruit piles up in cascades complicated by a spicy hint of ginger. The 2021 is long, long, long, youthfully tense and gently tannic, with a crunchy feel and the impression of liquid stone lingering beneath a hint of pretty inner flowers. The potential is unmistakable. This is an I Primo for the ages." Vinous

"Tropical mango, pineapple and melon overlay the delicious grassy and floral undertones. The wine shines with its elegance, mineral structure and citrus acidity: simultaneously rich and incredibly refreshing with an amazing length. True perfection." Decanter

"Classic peach stone aroma with an elegance reminiscent of Corton Charlemagne, full of flintstone minerality, lime blossom and pink grapefruit. Initially delicate on the palate, with concentrated fruit, weight and vibrancy, with great harmony and balance. A tight structure between fruit and acidity leads to a long, fruity and very refreshing finish. Drink now or store for decades." James Suckling

Messorio has been undisputedly one of Italy's best and rarest Merlots since the mid-1990s. Soft, rich, elegant, refined and never overdone. On the nose, ripe fruit, coffee, graphite and French oak. Structured and balanced, Messorio fascinates the international wine world every year with a clarity and length that is unparalleled. SUPERIORE.DE

"Once again, proof of how suitable individual sites in Bolgheri are for the Merlot grape variety: Complex nose of wild berries, mint, pepper and tobacco; the attack is full-bodied yet finesse-rich, with supple tannins, good acid structure, the finish pleasantly mineral and of great elegance." Vinum

"Powerful, sparkling ruby with violet glints. Open and accessible on the nose, charming notes of dark cherries, wild raspberries and some cardamom. Shows very good tension on the palate, juicy, lots of crunchy fruit, opens with fine-meshed tannin, tobacco on the final." Falstaff

"The 2018 Messorio is an attractive wine, but it also feels like the most marked by the cooler style of the year. Readers will find a mid-weight Messorio endowed with striking inner sweetness and perfume, if not quite the textural richness that is the norm here. I have seen even the more delicate of Messorios blossom beautifully over time, and suspect that will be the case here as well. The purity of the fruit is remarkable." Vinous

"Le Macchiole's 2018 Messorio is soft and rich with impressive depth and intensity, all delivered with the softness that only the Merlot grape can manage. This important wine unfolds first to rich cherry and blackberry and then yields softly to secondary notes of spice, baker's chocolate and toasted almond. There is some youthful tightness in the mouth, with Merlot tannins that are hitched to firmness and softness, while showing impressive length all the while. The mouthfeel is most impressive, thanks to its seamless and supple nature that glides smoothly over the palate." Wine Advocate

"This wine's main themes are plum, blackberry and black cherry flavors, with perfumed aromas and earth, iron, tobacco and dried herb accents. Dense, firm and dry on the finish, where a green, herbal element echoes. This is underlined by a beam of acidity from beginning to end." Wine Spectator

"This is very complex, offering tobacco, brown sugar, black olives and currants. It’s full-bodied, yet tight and layered, with very fine tannins and a long, structured finish. Hints of new wood complement the long, cool fruit and phenolics. Give this three or four years to open." James Suckling

Giacomo Neri's new top Brunello was born with the purchase of a very special vineyard. True to the winery's philosophy of making wines only from the best terroirs around Montalcino, a small 7-hectare parcel with over 45 years of vines was purchased a few years ago. This was preceded by a friendship of over 40 years with the previous owners, with whom Giacomo's father Giovanni Neri planted the vines and nurtured them over the past decades.

And the 2018 vintage is now the premiere for a wine that radiates all the outstanding qualities of the source material and the winemaker's craft. Man and nature unite here in perfect precision and harmony. Its balance is exquisite. Powerful cherry and blackberry notes are followed by crushed minerals, liquorice, smoke and lightly scented cedar. The wine spreads evenly and powerfully across the palate, and its flavour intensity can be counted on for many long minutes. Giovanni Neri Brunello is wonderfully concentrated and rich, but never too heavy or dense. 2018 is the birth of a new Italian icon that will take us on an exciting journey in the years to come - patience and further bottle ageing will be princely rewarded here, we are sure! SUPERIORE.DE

"Casanova di Neri's latest Brunello comes from a 7 ha parcel acquired in 2017. The vineyard is located in the somewhat untamed area of Sesta, in the south-east of Montalcino, and has vines that are over 50 years old. The wine is extremely multi-faceted, exuding aromas of herbs and blood oranges. Velvety layers of fleshy persimmon and ample pliable tannins are countered by a citrusy acidity. There's a crisp pomegranate as well as chocolaty depths of exotic carob. Lots of drive and vibration here." Decanter

"I have waited a long time for the first release of Giovanni Neri Brunello di Montalcino, and the 2018 does not disappoint. Here I find a beguiling blend of lavender, white pepper and crushed stone giving way to dried black cherries and foreign spices. The palate is washed by a smooth wave of ripe red berries, carried by lively acidity, while nuances of sour citrus and clove resonate. The tannins are crisp, almost chiselled, but with a primary concentration that lingers under a hint of purple flowers, tapering off with tremendous length and structure for long and balanced ageing. The Giovanni Neri comes from 50-year-old vines from a vineyard acquired in the south-east of Montalcino. This is a fabulous first bottling." Vinous

"This red is finely woven, with cherry and blackcurrant fruits shadowed by floral, mineral and black pepper aromas and flavours. Smooth and fluid, with excellent balance and lively acidity driving the fruity aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"Sparkling ruby-garnet with brightening rim. Very clear, ripe fruit, of blackberries, dark plums and black cherries, in the background slightly of molasses. Presents itself on the palate with lots of sweet fruit, very clear, opens with fine, slightly grippy tannin, polished, juicy and long." Falstaff

"Here is an exciting and important new addition to the Casanova di Neri portfolio. The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Giovanni Neri is shapely and enriched in an extremely pleasing way. The Neri family has perfected their approach to concentration and fruit weight over the many years they have been making excellent wines. This wine gives the impression of being full-bodied, but ultimately shows a very elegant side. Ripe cherry and blackberry are offset by oak spice, toast and white stones. The tannins are supple and sweet. 5,400 bottles of this first release were made." Wine Advocate

"Beautiful ripe fruit on the nose, with cranberries, plums, sour cherries, white truffle, red tea and white pepper. The tannins are very fine, creamy and expansive. Enveloping and generous, yet fresh. Wonderful length and depth. From a 7 hectare plot with 50 year old vines. Try this wine from 2025." James Suckling

"An impeccable interpretation, the result of excellent work both in the vineyard and in the cellar. Intense aromas of sour cherries and bay leaves on the nose, with salty and iodine notes on the finish. On the palate, it opens juicy and taut, then gains breadth and depth. Spicy tannins and a hint of hiel herbs characterise the long finish." Luca Gardini

2017 was the very first vintage of Massetino. It was launched in 2019, exactly 30 years after the first Massetino vintage. The newly designed wine cellar by Italian architects Zito & Mori was also inaugurated in 2019. The birth of the second wine and the opening of the wine cellar represent a historic moment for Masseto and clearly contribute to its recognition as a winery.

Massetino already shows a self-confident personality, which is not surprising as he shares the same pedigree with Masseto. Just like its older brother, it skilfully showcases the contrast between power and opulence combined with restraint and class. The high quality potential, which was already evident when tasting the grapes before the harvest, is fully expressed in the quality profile of Massetino 2021. A solid, crisp wine with a bright colour. Its flavours are memorable thanks to their richness and long finish. Lively, young tannins that are constantly evolving give the wine consistency and persistence on the palate. Massetino 2021 proves to be just as powerful as the vintage from which it comes. SUPERIORE.DE

"With the Cabernet Franc in the blend, the Massetino gains more and more character and impresses as a 2021 at an extremely high level. Dark, viscous colour. Dense, sweet and offensive, the aroma of the Massetino is very fresh and polished, multi-layered and clear. It is by no means opulent, but rather extremely focussed, with fine fruit and excellent depth. Full, sweet and viscous on the palate, ripe and dense, with plenty of body and richness. Its terrific, youthful structure contains the finest wood and a great finesse, very linear, powerful and salty long. The powerful tannins appear slightly roughened in the fine finish. A great second wine, of which unfortunately only a few are produced." Weinwisser

"Rich, deep dark ruby colour with a fine violet sheen. Dark and dense nose, showing appealing notes of cedar wood, blackberries and dark plums. Firm and full-bodied in attack and finish, with pronounced notes of tobacco, blackberry and brown butter, grippy, gripping tannins." Falstaff

"Elegant and lively, this red flows beautifully and builds to a long, savoury finish. It offers flavours of blackberries, blackcurrants, violets, cocoa, minerals and fresh herbs that linger, while lively acidity and powdery tannins provide structure." Wine Spectator

"The Massetino 2021 is an extremely elegant and graceful wine. Silky tannins caress a core of blackberries, espresso, mocha, liquorice, cloves and lavender. All elements are so beautifully balanced in this very appealing, racy second wine from Masseto." Vinous

"Sweet berries with aromas of violets and roses. Raspberries. Very perfumed. Medium body with very fine, velvety tannins that extend over the entire length of the wine. Lively on the finish. The best so far." James Suckling

"The Masseto 2021 Massetino consists mainly of Merlot with a hint of Cabernet Franc. The wine is very richly concentrated and multi-layered. You can see (and taste) the opulent texture of the wine as it slowly spreads in the glass. The high-quality fruit is accompanied by carefully selected oak, and the intensity of both unfolds on the palate. This vintage is predestined for particularly long ageing in the cellar." Wine Advocate

A modernist by the book. Balanced and impressive at the same time. 2018 Rennina with powerful aromas and flavours of violets, black cherries, tobacco and menthol. The tannins are firm yet beautifully integrated. Rennina is a complex, medium-bodied wine, which has a great positive influence on its ageing potential and makes it a success story. SUPERIORE.DE

"Shiny ruby-garnet. Finely marked nose with notes of raspberry and goji berries, liquorice in the background. Full-bodied and dense on the palate, lots of tightly woven tannin embedded in beautiful melting, unfolds smoothly, firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"Rennina brings together three neighbouring plots with varying soils, each contributing to the final expression. Sandy soil rich in marine fossils is associated with elegant perfumes, while Galestro lends structured tannins. An enchanting nose captures the dusty landscape and the sweet oily herbs of Tuscany. Flavours of cherry and violet saturate the palate, and beautifully integrated oak melds with long, chalky tannins. Tangy and sweet on the finish." Decanter

"Delicate and understated in the glass, the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Rennina whisps up with a pleasantly earthy mix of dried strawberries, roses and clove nuances. This coasts silky textural fruits across a core of brisk acidity and saline-minerals in an untethered Brunello of pure elegance. It finishes with ample tannins, but also remarkably fresh, leaving notes of red plum, mocha and tobacco to linger. This harmonious vintage of Rennina should evolve beautifully in collectors’ cellars." Vinous

"Harmonious and bordering on creamy in texture, this red features cherry, raspberry, plum, loam, almond and black pepper aromas and flavors. Reveals pleasant bitterness as this winds down on the lingering aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"Made with a blend of fruit from three vineyard sites with very different soil profiles, the Rennina maintains its distinct personality with elegant aromas of red fruit, forest berry, cassis, balsam herb and toasted almond. This vintage shows a hint of baked clay or black olive that underlines the warm vintage conditions. The wine is generous in terms of mouthfeel, with a nice fullness that remains graceful at the same time." Wine Advocate

"Complex, wild and energetic with an intellectual array of fresh truffles, bramble berries, bark, cardamom, dried porcini, miso and rosemary. Full-bodied yet agile, with firm, tight tannins and sharp acidity. Powerful and tight. Needs a few years to open. Try after 2025." James Suckling

Every year, the grapes for Solaia come from the sunniest corner of the vineyard of the same name on Antinori's Tenuta Tignanello estate. Solaia 2020 has a silky and elegant personality, the bouquet alone is fascinating. Bright and full of energy, it captures all the elegance of the vintage. Solaia 2020 is characterised by purity and focus of the fruit, with black plum, cassis, blue flowers, pencil shavings and plenty of sweet spice from the oak, reminiscent of cloves and toasted almonds. Medium-bodied on the palate with exceptional balance and beauty. Solaia becomes more elegant and aristocratic from year to year. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2020 vintage is one of the best Solaia to date. The blend has a dark, rich colour. Sweetly chocolaty, intense and slightly mature, it appears on the nose with lavender and roasted rosemary, deep and melting. Rich, creamy, ripe and extremely full-bodied, it spreads out in the mouth with maximum invasiveness and shows enormous race and polish. Long, salty and with a savoury spiciness on the finish, it has a very powerful structure with generous tannins, as well as plenty of juice and body. A voluptuous, firm-flavoured Solaia that is more focused and fresher than usual." Weinwisser

"Deep dark ruby colour with a fine violet sheen. Fragrant, memorable nose, with notes of ripe blackberry, lots of cassis, some mint, very balanced. Polished and clear on the palate, smooth, very precise, opens up with lots of fine tannins, very long finish." Falstaff

"The Solaia 2020 has a deep dark colour and consists mainly of Cabernet Sauvignon with smaller proportions of Cabernet Franc and Sangiovese. This vintage unfolds an exuberant richness and thick layers of blackberries and plums. The tannins are sweet and skilfully crafted, giving the wine depth and fruitiness. The 2020 vintage is quite bold and plays its best cards in terms of texture and mouthfeel. It is bigger and more approachable than the last two vintages on the market. Spices, roasted coffee beans and more dark fruits colour this full-bodied Tuscan red wine." Wine Advocate

"This red wine is dripping with flavours of blackcurrant, blackberry, black cherry, iron and toasted oak. It's supple and polished, showing hints of tobacco and wild herbs that add even more detail on the long, kaleidoscopic finish. The civilised tannins are well integrated and give it structure." Wine Spectator

"The Solaia 2020 is an infant. I was expecting a more opulent wine, but the 2020 is more classically structured. Black cherry, plum, gravel, incense, smoke, pencil shavings and spice open up effortlessly. As always, Solaia is a Cabernet Sauvignon-based wine, but it's a Cabernet that's distinctly Italian, with plenty of Tuscan acidity and structure running through the mid-palate and into the finish. The 2020 is an excellent example of Antinori's recent stylistic shift. In the past, richness and opulence were qualities of a vintage that were enhanced in the vineyard and cellar. Today, the aim is to achieve a more balanced expression of these types of vintages, and this is expressed very well." Vinous

"Subtle and beautiful on the nose with aromas of redcurrant, flowers and light sage that develop into a full body with ultra-fine tannins and a long and flavourful finish. Extremely polished and balanced. Stylish." James Suckling

Rare, exceptional Merlot from the west of Tuscany: deep ruby red with violet reflections. The bouquet is multi-layered with hints of wild berries and blackberries, ripe cherries, but also liquorice and tobacco notes. Very structured and lively on the palate. The silky tannins emphasise the delicate minerality right through to the almost endless finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, bright ruby red colour. Fine black cherry on the nose, with fine yeasty tones, black bread, blackcurrants, precious wood, cold smoke. Great texture on the palate, full on the tongue, with spicy fruit and rich tannins, fiery, with some wood overhang, still very young, needs patience." Falstaff

"Exuding black currant, blackberry, plum and iron flavors, this sleek version is also powerful, with beefy tannins, yet it's the vivid acidity that drives the long, toasty oak–infused aftertaste in the end." Wine Spectator

"The Tua Rita 2021 Redigaffi is a wine with dense character and dark extraction. This 100% Merlot offers tension and extreme balance with very generous flavours of dark cherries, plums, dried blackberries, spices and tobacco. Its texture is spectacularly soft and velvety, its body is full-bodied. Redigaffi is often monolithic and monotonous when young, and it needs more time in the bottle to develop." Wine Advocate

"Wow. The flavours are really something else with red fruits, black olives, spices like cardamom and nutmeg and hints of tar and meat. It's full-bodied, yet controlled and focused with fine, delicate tannins that roll across the palate and create beautiful movement. Powerful yet silky and endless. A great young Merlot and one of the best for a few years." James Suckling

Rare, exceptional Merlot from the west of Tuscany: deep ruby red with violet reflections. The bouquet is multi-layered with hints of wild berries and blackberries, ripe cherries, but also liquorice and tobacco notes. Very structured and lively on the palate. The silky tannins emphasise the delicate minerality right through to the almost endless finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Inviting, sparkling ruby-purple colour. Rich, appealing nose, rich in blueberries and blackberries, cassis, some dark bread crust, oregano behind it. Full-bodied and compact at the attack and on the palate, rich blueberry and blackberry flavours, grippy, hearty tannins, young but very well integrated, spans a wide range." Falstaff

"Aromas of crushed fruit and white pepper with dried lavender and hints of violets and sage flowers. Stony undertones, too. Medium- to full-bodied, tight and focused, with reserve and beauty. And then it grows on the palate with polished and focused tannins that take it to another level. Exudes freshness and length, despite the hot growing season. A sophisticated red and with a long future ahead." James Suckling

Cerretalto 2018 is an expressive, exuberant and impressive wine that opens with a dark ruby red colour and a rich texture. The bouquet is endlessly intense, closely followed by finely tuned aromas of black cherries, spices, grilled herbs, cloves, tobacco, damp earth and white truffle. Over time, elegant mineral tones unfold, and later these flavours transition into cola, liquorice and tar. The mouthfeel is silky and supple, and there is enough power to move the wine seamlessly across the palate. Cerretalto continues to develop endlessly over 24 hours in the glass. Clear case: this is a bottle for the back of your cellar. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, rich ruby red colour. Beautiful, ripe, open nose, accessible, plums, wild raspberries, tobacco, liquorice in the finish. Surprisingly juicy on the palate, great fruit freshness, opens up with present, silky tannins, good tension, still a little drying on the final." Falstaff

"This intense red wine has a solid structure that emphasises the aromas of plums, cherries, eucalyptus and iron, with a solid mid-palate that develops into a lingering aftertaste of red fruits, hibiscus and minerals. It shows excellent length and freshness." Wine Spectator

"With dried blackberries, balsamic herbs and a hint of charred chilli spice, this wine offers an aromatic profile that is very well suited to a vintage that experienced cool spring temperatures and a hot summer. The Casanova di Neri 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto is a wine with depth, dusty tannins and a slightly developed fruit character. I tasted this 2018 Cerretalto alongside the winery's new releases from 2019, and the latter vintage certainly offers more clarity and bite overall. The Neri family does a great job of handling the tannins, and although there is some chalkiness here, the structure of the wine is skilfully embedded in the fruit concentration." Wine Advocate

"Black cherries and dried cherries combine with notes of balsamic, leather and minty earth, but it needs time to open up. Full-bodied on the palate, with good fruit concentration and refined tannins. Still youthful, with grainy oak notes. A hint of graphite on the polished finish. Very flavoursome." James Suckling

Every year, the grapes for Solaia come from the sunniest corner of the vineyard of the same name on Antinori's Tenuta Tignanello estate. Solaia 2020 has a silky and elegant personality, the bouquet alone is fascinating. Bright and full of energy, it captures all the elegance of the vintage. Solaia 2020 is characterised by purity and focus of the fruit, with black plum, cassis, blue flowers, pencil shavings and plenty of sweet spice from the oak, reminiscent of cloves and toasted almonds. Medium-bodied on the palate with exceptional balance and beauty. Solaia becomes more elegant and aristocratic from year to year. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2020 vintage is one of the best Solaia to date. The blend has a dark, rich colour. Sweetly chocolaty, intense and slightly mature, it appears on the nose with lavender and roasted rosemary, deep and melting. Rich, creamy, ripe and extremely full-bodied, it spreads out in the mouth with maximum invasiveness and shows enormous race and polish. Long, salty and with a savoury spiciness on the finish, it has a very powerful structure with generous tannins, as well as plenty of juice and body. A voluptuous, firm-flavoured Solaia that is more focused and fresher than usual." Weinwisser

"Deep, dark ruby colour with a fine violet sheen. Fragrant, memorable nose, with notes of ripe blackberry, lots of cassis, some mint, very balanced. Polished and clear on the palate, smooth, very precise, opens up with lots of fine tannins, very long finish." Falstaff

"The Solaia 2020 has a deep dark colour and consists mainly of Cabernet Sauvignon with smaller proportions of Cabernet Franc and Sangiovese. This vintage unfolds an exuberant richness and thick layers of blackberries and plums. The tannins are sweet and skilfully crafted, giving the wine depth and fruitiness. The 2020 vintage is quite bold and plays its best cards in terms of texture and mouthfeel. It is bigger and more approachable than the last two vintages on the market. Spices, roasted coffee beans and more dark fruits colour this full-bodied Tuscan red wine." Wine Advocate

"This red wine is dripping with flavours of blackcurrant, blackberry, black cherry, iron and toasted oak. It's supple and polished, showing hints of tobacco and wild herbs that add even more detail on the long, kaleidoscopic finish. The civilised tannins are well integrated and give it structure." Wine Spectator

"The Solaia 2020 is an infant. I was expecting a more opulent wine, but the 2020 is more classically structured. Black cherry, plum, gravel, incense, smoke, pencil shavings and spice open up effortlessly. As always, Solaia is a Cabernet Sauvignon-based wine, but it's a Cabernet that's distinctly Italian, with plenty of Tuscan acidity and structure running through the mid-palate and into the finish. The 2020 is an excellent example of Antinori's recent stylistic shift. In the past, richness and opulence were qualities of a vintage that were enhanced in the vineyard and cellar. Today, the aim is to achieve a more balanced expression of these types of vintages, and this is expressed very well." Vinous

"Subtle and beautiful on the nose with aromas of redcurrant, flowers and light sage that develop into a full body with ultra-fine tannins and a long and flavourful finish. Extremely polished and balanced. Stylish." James Suckling

Camarcanda is a rich Bolgheri Rosso Superiore with a dark bouquet of black fruit, espresso, chocolate, liquorice and tar. The palate is extremely full-bodied, with outstanding depth, dense structure and a firm body. Opulent and long, this wine already shows a wide range of personality. SUPERIORE.DE

"Fragrant bouquet with rather red fruits, cherries and wild berries, framed by balsamic notes, delicately floral, lavender. Melting and smooth in the mouth with fruity and then also tart notes, salty-spicy final." Weinwisser

"Diverse bouquet of forest fruits, spicy macchia and balsamic notes; firm texture, the tannins extremely finely chiselled, underpinned by crisp acidity, the final opulent with plenty of juice, density and length. Also extremely successful in this vintage." Vinum

"Bright ruby red colour with a brightening core. On the nose, juicy cherries, sea salt, some blood orange, then fine precious wood, with a finish of fine undergrowth and ripe raspberries. Pure and clear on the palate, on juicy elderberries and fine mint, with grippy tannins, embedded in fine precious wood." Falstaff

"At this young stage, the wine shows a youthful primary fruit and impresses with its balance and integration of fruit and oak. Angelo Gaja and his team have dedicated themselves to the pursuit of elegance in these two grape varieties, which can often develop too much power and concentration if they are not controlled. The right timing of the harvest and the careful use of French oak are key to this overall result, especially with regard to the medium to full body and long silkiness of this age-worthy vintage." Wine Advocate

"The aromas of this wine are somewhat muted today, but the blackcurrant, blueberry, violet, cedar and wild herb flavours are expressive and well articulated. It is supported by lively acidity and a dense tannic matrix and finishes long and full of flavour." Wine Spectator

"The nose of this Bolgheri Superiore is captivating with its lush integration of cloves, balsam, eucalyptus leaves and restrained blackberry fruit. The attack is velvety, with a great development of youthful, fine-grained tannins in the mid-palate, a long, powerful acidity and a toasty, fruity finish. A wine that has a long life ahead of it, a great example of a Bordeaux blend with a Mediterranean identity and one of the best Bolgheri we have tasted from Ca' Marcanda." Decanter

"Redcurrants, rose petals and ink, plus some fresh herbs. Medium-bodied with fine and taut tannins that give the wine focus and beauty. This wine will develop beautifully. Taste it after 2028, but it's already excellent now." James Suckling

"The Camarcanda 2020 is smooth, elegant and wonderfully expressive. Exquisite flavours and silky tannins give the Camarcanda a lot of finesse. The 2020 is deceptively medium-bodied and has a wonderful finish. Pretty floral and spicy notes open the finish effortlessly. The 2020 is without question the best Camarcanda yet. Bravo." Vinous

The single-varietal Merlot L'Apparita 2018 is outstanding - elegance, strength of character, a remarkably fine tannin and acid structure as well as the endlessly long persistence characterise this exceptional Merlot. An oenological rarity of Tuscany and not only therefore an object of desire every year. On the nose, a combination of fruity and spicy impressions, excellent fleshy taste, whose juicy, still quite concise tannin blends well with the warm body. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, intense ruby with a pronounced violet shimmer. Rich nose with notes of mulberries and black cherries, fine spicy components in the background. Shows a lot of dark fruit on the nose, then opens up with lots of tightly woven tannin in several layers, can quietly mature a bit more." Falstaff

"Black currant, black cherry, blueberry, wild herb and earth flavors are nicely displayed on the polished frame of this fluid and harmonious red, with dusty tannins lining the finish. More on the elegant side than powerful." Wine Spectator

"One of the rare instances where Merlot excels in Tuscany, this gorgeous wine opens with enticing aromas of dark-skinned berry, new leather, camphor and dark spice. Continuing where the nose left off, the elegant, delicious palate delivers cassis, ripe blackberry, licorice and crushed mint alongside the barest note of truffle. It's a world-class wine with breeding, extreme finesse and great depth. It's impeccably balanced, with a backbone of velvety tannins and fresh acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"Hard dark-chocolate aromas with blackberries and blue fruit. Pure and gorgeous. Full-bodied with gorgeous, polished tannins that are intense and powerful, yet ever so precise and together. It’s so curated and real with a great finish. One of the best merlots from Ama in a long time." James Suckling

"The 2018 L'Apparita is a total stunner. Ama's 100% Merlot is usually a wine of bombastic intensity, but the 2018 marks a departure from that style, as it is all finesse and nuance. Blackberry jam, spice, menthol and lavender are some of the aromas and flavors that open in an Apparita that dazzles with its precision and nuance. Rain at the end of August pushed out harvest and gave Marco Pallanti the ideal conditions to craft this gorgeous wine." Vinous

"This wine has earned its spot in a world of pantheons that is grande vini Italiani. The Castello di Ama 2018 L'Apparita is one of the world's greatest Merlots, and this slightly cooler growing season delivers on all the promise and pedigree that we should expect of this collectors' favorite. L'Apparita opens to an inky dark and blackish appearance, and the bouquet slowly reveals black fruit, ripe cherry, dark spice, smoke and barbecue rub. The wine's texture and finish, which is so velvety and rich, so supple and soft, is what will ultimately win you over. Indeed, this wine excels especially in terms of the elegance and fullness of the mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

Sandro Chia's vineyards have now reached their full potential and the Riserva from the top 2016 vintage is the crowning glory. This year, the winery's consistently clear style and the cool vineyard sites have come together to form a truly perfect unity that is hard to find in Montalcino. The richness and generosity of the bouquet is impressive: delicious layers of dark berries, spices, dried herbs and dark chocolate combine to create an intense composition that is rounded off on the palate. Slender and fine on the palate, yet with a subtle opulence that reveals new depths with every sip. The expression and length emphasise the qualities of this truly super Brunello, which completely captivated us. If you have time, wait for the further revelations that bottle ageing will undoubtedly bring! SUPERIORE.DE

"Beguiling raspberry and violet-pepper nose; the attack is juicy, the tannins are tightly woven and well integrated like the acidity, lots of character, suppleness and length in the final, the wood skilfully integrated." Vinum

"Medium-dense, bright ruby colour with a fine garnet sheen. Complex and open nose with notes of dried tomatoes, pickled cherries and light tobacco. Polished on the palate, as if from a single mould from start to finish, lots of finely woven tannins, coated in sweet enamel, with subtle earthy notes on the final." Falstaff

"This red wine is juicy and bursting with vibrant cherry, strawberry, floral and mineral aromas and flavours. It is firm and lean, with excellent intensity and a long, savoury aftertaste. It is harmonious enough to enjoy now, but should reach its peak in three to five years." Wine Spectator

"Castello Romitorio harvests in two stages. The first is an early selection of the smallest, loosest grapes from the oldest vineyards and is filled into a single tank. In years when the estate's Brunello can stand on its own, it is bottled separately as a Riserva. The 2016, the tenth since 1987, is wonderfully earthy in its overture of clay, mineral rock and iron. It develops into an autumnal smokiness and then lands on balsamic herbs and crunchy red forest berries. The youthful vigour and verve do not conceal its inherent finesse. The crisp acidity and dramatic tannins that hurt the mouth will accompany this wine for a long time to come." Decanter

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva does a marvellous job of creating a lasting sense of harmony that reflects the best characteristics of this classic vintage. Part of that playlist is power, and indeed this wine registers 15% alcohol, which is high, but the freshness of these vineyard sites and the wine's acidity do a good job of tempering that power. The fruit is polished and refined in this Riserva, and there is a nice blend of primary and even some distant tertiary character to form a bouquet that is pure but also complex." Wine Advocate

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva soars with elegance and richness as sweet lavender and violets give way to a more savoury display of black cherries, Tuscan dust and cedar chest with a hint of cool mint. The palate is awash with sweet red fruits and spice, silky yet with a delicacy that you wouldn't expect in the Riserva category, but which is very welcome. Underneath, there is a core of power and density just waiting to unfold. On the final, the minerality comes to the fore, mingling with a fine layer of tannins and a hint of spicy citrus fruit. This harmonious Brunello will have a very long life. The Riserva is a selection of two Brunello barrels, a tonneau and a large barrel, from the Romitorio cellar. Simply stunning." Vinous

"A Riserva of great flavour impact, without compromise, from the north-western part of the appellation. Great concentration on the nose, blackcurrant, notes of laurel and rhubarb. The mouthfeel has salty tannins, but also an excellent density, with a return to fruitiness and undergrowth." Luca Gardini

Complex and multi-layered classic from the old master of Nebbiolo from Piedmont. On the nose cedar, plum, red fruits, undergrowth and some rose scent. Balanced, spicy taste, the tannins firm and the finish precise and long. This muscular monument of a red wine definitely needs a few more years of bottle ageing, with a little patience it will transform into pure elegance! SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, brightening ruby-garnet. Fragrant, finely marked nose, of raspberry, rose petals and ripe cherries, inviting. Polished, fine-meshed tannin characterises the wine on the palate, like a fine robe, salty, lots of ripe cherry, long final." Falstaff

"The 2019 Barbaresco from Gaja is magnificent. Bright and edgy, with fabulous balance, the 2019 captures all the best this difficult vintage had to offer. Gaja did not bottle any other Barbaresco crus, instead opting to use the best lots for this bottling. This decision has paid off in a 2019 that is bursting with excitement. The aromas alone are captivating. Bright acids add vibrancy to a core of beautifully pronounced Nebbiolo fruit." Vinous

"Aromas of iron, minerals, dark chocolate, wild strawberries, raw walnuts, orange peel and rotten roses. Medium to full-bodied, with supple and very chalky tannins. Lots of fruit on the palate with a fine, fresh and mineral finish. Pure and linear." James Suckling

"A complex red that reveals multi-dimensional aromas and flavours of rose, cherry, liquorice, minerals and spices. This is fused with a lively structure that gives a taut, almost racy profile at the moment. The wine combines power and grace and finishes on a long, floral and spicy aftertaste. Best from 2026 to 2045." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Barbaresco is striking and beautiful as a result, with tremendous depth and clarity. It is a generous wine with ample structure, plenty of lively acidity, sweet tannins and a bright core of primary fruit." Wine Advocate

Amarone della Valpolicella Classico La Fabriseria shows itself massive and with seductive complexity. Deep bouquet of black berries and cocoa, violets and lavender. The taste is immensely fruity with aromas of cherry, blackberry and wild berry, plus the invigorating impressions of medicinal herbs again and again. The finish is elegant and long with a fine sweetness and a hint of mint. For us, one of the greatest wines of the Valpolicella! SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful, bright ruby. Very clear and intense nose, full of dark currant sweets, dark cherry juice, spicy honey and some resin in the background. Dense and full-bodied in the attack and course, shows a lot of grippy, dense tannin, flows clearly and calmly, dark pepper in the finish, very much Storage potential." Falstaff

"A pure beam of crème de cassis and baked black cherries is accented by an enticing palette of sandalwood, liquorice and Earl Grey tea leaf notes in this fine-mesh, medium to full-bodied red. Long and delicious, with a rich hint of fig cake and a touch of mineral iron on the slightly chewy finish." Wine Spectator

"In the glass, aromas of crushed violet, baked plum, underbrush and new leather combine. The palate is velvety and densely concentrated, offering delicious raspberry jam, soaked plums and baking spices before finishing with a tobaccoic finish. Despite its big, bold structure, it has refined tannins that support and polish it seamlessly." Wine Enthusiast

"Sumptuous notes of balsamic, mint, dried thyme, kirsch and mountain herb. A raft of tannins doused with dried tobacco leaf and clove, compress the fruit as much as promote it. The thick-skinned oseleta is in the blend, contributing immensely to the firm structural lattice. Drive, power and length, with no dearth of freshness. Excellent Amarone for those seeking power as much as freshness. This has a very traditional, savoury air to it. One glass is not quite sufficient in this case." James Suckling

"The Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva La Fabriseria 2015 trades power for elegance and feminine beauty. Notes of mineral ripe cherries, currants, sage and cocoa gain volume and depth with time in the glass. The wine is seamless and silky, gliding over a core of lively acids, with juicy red and black fruits giving way to sweet spices and pretty flowers. A bitter hint of coffee and spicy herbal notes combine with tart blackberries and linger for well over a minute. This is just great." Vinous

"The Tedeschi family's top wine is their 2015 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva la Fabriseria. The wine is a careful blend of 40% Corvina, 40% Corvinone, 15% Rondinella and 5% Oseleta, all aged in oak for 48 months. The appassimento process has produced a powerful and muscular wine that opens with thick layers of black fruits, plums, dried cherries, spices, mesquite smoke, iron and sweet rum cake. With only 2,500 bottles made, this full-bodied blockbuster wine is a lesson in all the beautiful excesses that extreme Amarone has to offer." Wine Advocate

This wine from the single vineyard of the same name is probably the most opulent of the house's selection line. On the nose, an almost brushstroke-wide presence of ripe fruit, spices and hints of crushed rock. On the palate, impressive suppleness, complexity and richness, plus a whole bouquet of dark fruit flavours flanked by firm, structured tannin. The Merlot content gives it additional depth and power. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, intense ruby red. Very intense and complex nose, of violets, rose petals and sour cherry, also nice blackberry. Juicy in attack and course, opens with precise, very well placed tannin, long and deep, still has a long life ahead of it." Falstaff

"All about elegance, this fragrant red opens with aromas of cedar, dark spice, coffee bean and blue flower. Linear and polished, the palate is still rather youthfully austere, featuring juicy black cherry, cassis and licorice framed in fine-grained tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"A very polished and refined bottle with creamy, velvety tannins that are poised and fine. Medium-bodied with a lovely center palate and a flavorful finish. Try after 2022 and onwards." James Suckling

"This is packed with succulent blackberry, black cherry, plum, tar, iron and tobacco aromas and flavors, aligned with a base of burly tannins. Fresh and vigorous, with a lingering aftertaste of fruit, mineral and wild herbs." Wine Spectator

"The Castello di Ama 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto la Casuccia offers ample volume and fruit weight, but it holds back slightly on the mid-palate. The 2018 vintage tends to deliver all of its brooding intensity up front, leaving you with plenty of black fruit, spice and tobacco to fuel a long finish." Wine Advocate

"The 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto La Casuccia is fabulous. A heady, opulent wine, the 2018 possesses tremendous energy to match its explosive personality. The plush fruit and soft, silky curves are pure Casuccia. The 2018 needs at least a handful of years in bottle, as it is a wine that only truly blossoms with time." Vinous