0.75 liter

Enrica and Ettore learned winemaking from none other than Giancarlo Pacenti. The grapes for this vinophile masterpiece come from a small vineyard in Castelnuovo dell'Abate. Deep, full-bodied expression with warm aromatic layers adding impressive intensity to the bouquet of dark plum, blackberry, dried cherry, liquorice, tar, black truffle and leather. Then on the palate, a beguiling extract sweetness, again very complex and resonant, in quiet unison with the characteristics of the exceptional terroir. The 36 months of very slow ageing in large oak barrels provide a wonderful harmony and a very good ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"A taut, linear version, this red features cherry, strawberry, earth and tobacco flavors, allied to a dense structure. Compact right now, with less length than many of its peers, a little aging may allow it to relax and stretch out. Best from 2025 through 2042." Wine Spectator

"The dark and alluring bouquet of the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino really keeps you at the edge of the glass, where notes of tobacco and dried flowers give way to ripe black cherries, plum and hints of cloves. It’s velvety in texture, yet there's a lift of minerals and acids here that maintains wonderful balance. Concentrated red/black berries accumulate, coating the palate in primary fruit under an air of purple inner florals. Its tannic heft sneaks up on you, previously masked by the 2016’s youthful intensity. There’s so much going on here and so much more to come after five to ten years of cellaring." Vinous

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino turns the dial up a notch in terms of intensity and power. The bouquet reveals dark fruit, dried cherry, cassis, cola, spice and rosemary essence. I can't help but notice the wide aromatic presentation and the considerable depth. There is a touch of white chocolate or bitter almond as well that is unique to this wine. Winemaking is executed in a traditional manner, with aging in large Slavonian oak casks that lasts three careful years. The vineyard site is home to schistous galestro soils, and defining mineral characteristics are carried through on the close. Only 4,700 bottles were made." Wine Advocate

"This has a ripe, polished nose with plenty of ripe plums, cedar, sandalwood and toffee. It's full-bodied with firm, drying tannins. Wait for these to integrate. Lots of dark chocolate and juicy fruit on a very long finish." James Suckling

With Bricco Rocche, Bussia, Brunate and Prapò, Ceretto vinifies four masterful single-vineyard Baroli. If you can't decide between these wines, you will find an excellent alternative in the winery's basic Barolo.

Elegant, bright ruby red colour. Dark intensity with great aromatic richness, including ripe cherry and raspberry, paired with noble spice and gentle use of wood. Fruity and floral notes are followed by traces of iron and a delicate hint of liquorice. The flavours are delicate and fragile, and the wine skilfully hides its power in the soft folds of its slender, medium-weight mouthfeel. Polished and clear on the palate, spreading out with delicately creamy tannins, salty undertone, great length. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling ruby red with garnet-coloured edges. Seductive, complex nose, raspberries and sour cherries, followed by pepper, nutmeg and some forest floor. Elegant and deep on the palate, refreshing acidity, ripe tannins, lingering, spicy final." Falstaff

"Already white truffle, plum and meat on the nose. Medium to full-bodied with firm and chewy tannins that are polished and racy. Needs time to open up. Better after 2026." James Suckling

"The organic Ceretto 2019 Barolo has a note of juicy cherry and plum that pops up immediately and ties into a floral note, almost musky, like a tuberose or something comparatively fragrant. The fruit leads, but the wine does offer sensual aromas to follow with soft baking spice, mineral and very fine-grained tannins. A blend of fruit comes from Barolo, Castiglione Falletto, La Morra and Serralunga d'Alba. The style is modern classic. This is a very generous wine." Wine Advocate

"A classic! This Barolo opens with aromas of wild cherries, macerated raspberries, drying rose, liquorice, clove and subtle earthy notes. On the palate, it shows the regal nature of Nebbiolo with its ripe red fruits balanced by spicy herbs, tobacco and fine-grained tannins." Wine Enthusiast

The grapes for the estate's classic Barolo come from the vineyards/communes of Ornato, La Serra, Briccolina in Serralunga d'Alba, Gustava and Garretti in Grinzane Cavour, Roncaglie in La Morra, Ravera in Novello and, from the 2015 vintage, also from Mosconi in Monforte d'Alba. It is more of a traditional, classic Barolo with an exciting bouquet of deep, dark fruit and a pretty potpourri of rose petals, spices, smoke and tar. It is full-bodied and firm on the palate, opening up with plenty of dense tannins, very powerful, with pressure and a full bite on the finish, designed for a long life. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium red; inviting, undergrowth, not intense; good fullness and sweetness, also depth, long, round tannin." Merum

"Fruity and floral on the nose; harmonious, still youthful texture, the tannins robust, the evolution precise, the finish polished and fruity. Convinces with its noble construction." Vinum

"Bright ruby colour with garnet and a delicately brightening rim. Fine stony tones on the nose, delicate wild berries, blood oranges, distantly reminiscent of cold earth. Polished on the palate, on fine notes of black tea, slightly balsamic, tense, deep and salty, comes in many layers." Falstaff

"Beautiful flavours of flowers, fresh strawberries and raspberries are followed by a medium to full palate with fine tannins that extend over the entire length of the wine. Undertones of citrus and spice. The finish is long and intense. Tannic finish." James Suckling

"The historic house of Pio Cesare produces some of its best wines today. This classic highlights the purity of Nebbiolo with notes of tart red fruits combined with sweet and savoury spices, followed by subtle hints of flowers and earth. Sour cherry flavours dominate the palate with soft tannins, savoury herbs and a lively finish." Wine Enthusiast

"Pio Cesare has done a great job with his classic Barolo 2019 (produced since 1881). At the bottom of the front label it says "Barolo Pio" in memory of the legendary Pio Boffa. He was a wine entrepreneur who was immediately respected and loved by all who knew him. The wine focuses strictly on the bright Nebbiolo fruit with aromas of redcurrant and aniseed. The finish is soft with tannins that dissolve elegantly on the palate." Wine Advocate

The world-famous Caiarossa is an extremely exciting blend of the varieties Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Sangiovese, Syrah and Alicante, with the rich and dark fruit aromas of the Cabernet grapes in the foreground. On the nose, a beautiful first wave of dark fruits that never seem too ripe, which greatly benefits the wine's elegance. In the drink very balanced and focused with blackberries, cassis and slight hints of salty or rusty minerals. Caiarossa shows a good degree of elegance, not least because of its fine and taut tannins, and despite its density and complexity, it never seems opulent or even overloaded. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, rich ruby with a slight violet shimmer. Opens with notes of cold smoke, slightly metallic components, behind that blueberries and cranberries, some pepper. Plucky, sturdy tannin, opens in many layers, fine liquorice notes in the final." Falstaff

"Everything about this wine is seamless. It cannot shake off its French mould, but this goes further than just imitation. Gorgeous nose of oak, black fruit and cassis building a real unity. Velvet-like, cool and supple on the palate and effortlessly elegant while generous too. Stony, mineral fruit on the finish. This vintage comes close to the most prestigious of Bolgheri at a far more advantageous price tag. Caiarossa shines a light on the unjustly unknown terroir of Riparbella. Keep this at least for another year for it to show its potential." Jancis Robinson

"Richly scented plums and black cherries on the nose. Weighty and full in the mouth but smooth and soft, the fine tannins well integrated and supporting the bright strawberry, creamy red cherry and plum fruit flavours. Tannins give a chalky texture to the palate, gently supporting the fruit which has a subtle toasted spice to the finish. I love the acidity, the intensity of the sweet yet full fruit at the beginning, a smoky spiced element to the mid palate and a mineral tinged - wet stone, saline finish. Still feels very youthful." Decanter

"The Caiarossa 2019 is a complex blend featuring Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Sangiovese, Syrah and Alicante from vineyard sites across this beautiful property in the high hills off the Tuscan coast. This organic and biodynamic wine is full and generous to the palate, yet it never feels heavy or too extracted. The wine is balanced and fresh with thick layers of dark fruit, crushed stone, tobacco and exotic spice." Wine Advocate

"This is an intense, full-bodied yet very well-balanced and polished red with velvety, firm and caressing tannins. Ripe black plums, blueberries, chocolate, mocha, sweet spice and dried lavender. Some oyster shells, too. Layered and full of character. Creamy at the end from the polished tannins." James Suckling

Poggio di Sotto's Rosso di Montalcino is a fragrant and feminine effort, showing dusty roses and violets with bright cherry and strawberry fruit in the glass. Hints of cedar and floral undergrowth emerge over time to complete the expression. It is silky to the touch and energetic with mineral, ripe red berries, spices and inner flowers carried by juicy acids. Liquorice and a sweet and sour note of wild berries linger along with a gentle layer of fine tannin that only becomes noticeable towards the end. Great development potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with purple nuances. Elegant, expressive bouquet of juicy heart cherry, juniper, saddle leather and undergrowth. Glides silky and with finesse over the palate, fruity-sweet and precise on finely woven tannins, long and recurring finish." Falstaff

"Restrained raspberries, leather, violets and cherry stones with rusty minerality. Supple palate with full body, tension from lifted acidity and dense, velvety tannins. Precise and long-lasting finish. One of the best in its category in a promising vintage." James Suckling

"The 2021 Rosso di Montalcino is dark and intense, with an abundance of smoky black cherries, sage and incense. It has a core of ripe wild berries, underlined by salty minerals and savoury spice accompanied by zesty acidity. The 2021 finishes structured and long, with a concentration that reminds me more of a Brunello than a Rosso, leaving grippy tannins and a hint of sour citrus that keeps me coming back to the glass." Vinous

This wine is the essence of Sangiovese from the municipality of Radda and the result of a rigorous selection of Sangiovese grapes from the estate's best vineyards. An elegant, terroir-influenced red that (in Sean's words) "is made the way we like it."

Bright ruby-garnet colour. Appealing, precisely characterised nose with pronounced notes of raspberry and some pomegranate. Fine fruit, freshness and a good acidity structure in the attack, also showing a distinctive tannin, which recedes in character after a few minutes of further aeration. Uno presents a dark, virile expression of Sangiovese from Radda. Like all of Sean O'Callaghan's wines, it has plenty of character and personality. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant ruby red colour. Black cherries and butter biscuits on the nose, carried by fine spice notes, pepper, wet stone, forest berries again on the finish. On the palate with dense, juicy tannins and clear fruit, spans a wide arc, comes in many layers, energetic and salty in the aftertaste." Falstaff

"The 2020 Uno, the estate's top bottling, is another highly distinctive wine in this range from Tenuta di Carleone. Lively acids cut through a core of Sangiovese fruit in this still nervous, taut wine." Vinous

"Bright and juicy red berry character with red spices, savoury herbs and dried orange peel on offer. Medium-bodied, polished and refined with a juicy, fresh nature. Chalky and mineral with a structured, lingering finish." James Suckling

The latest addition to Vajra's Barolo line-up comes from a 1.5-hectare plot in Coste di Rose, a small MGA (Menzioni Geografiche Aggiuntive) in the Barolo region. This is a steep slope at 310 metres above sea level with a high proportion of sandy soils with good drainage, whose vines and soils are cultivated close to nature. This very accessible Barolo is straightforward, forward and impresses even at a young age with its refreshing candour. A very precise bouquet of cherry, plum, liquorice, spices and menthol, followed by a broad and multi-layered fruity palate with plenty of juice and power, supportive tannins and a full, long, mineral and minty finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Compared to Bricco delle Viole, Coste di Rose is characterised by sandstone soils at lower altitudes of 340 to 350 metres above sea level. Elegant bouquet with fine red fruit and blue berries, plus smoky and floral tones reminiscent of violets and rose petals. In the mouth, a finely spun, fragrant Barolo with an elegant acidic nerve and juicy fruit sweetness in the finish." Weinwisser

"Sparkling ruby colour with a slight garnet sheen. Clear and memorable, opens with notes of dried roses, then some cloves, plus plenty of plums. Juicy on the palate, shows very good tension, savoury, present, fine-meshed tannins at the core, builds up over a long time." Falstaff

"Truly floral aroma. Very fruity, expressive and flattering. Just a little dry on the finish. Lots of energy." Jancis Robinson

"The 2020 Barolo Coste di Rose is an attractive, medium-bodied wine. Black cherry, lavender, spice, menthol and liquorice are beautifully interwoven. The Coste di Rose is not the most complex Barolo in the range, but it offers plenty of pure appeal in a sensual, open style that can be enjoyed with minimal cellaring time." Vinous

"White pepper, dried roses, berries and minerals on the nose. Very elegant and chalky on the palate with a medium to full body and a linear finish. Pure and powerful." James Suckling

"Coste di Rose is the lowest of the Vajra vineyards and the most recent, 2015, was the first vintage. It is relatively unknown, although it is quite central between Canubi and Brunate. Red-fruited and forward, perhaps with a little less structure, red and blue berries, a hint of lavender and clove and raspberry leaves offer a bright, herbaceous character that lifts the finish." Decanter

"A Barolo of remarkable elegance and complexity. Sublime aromas of mixed wild berries, candied rose petals, cinnamon and whole cloves are accompanied by warm, earthy notes. Tart cherries and cranberries dominate the palate, with woody undertones and chewy tannins that add power without overpowering. Savoury and medicinal herbs linger on the finish, making this wine a captivating expression of this famous cru." Wine Enthusiast

"A beam of fresh cherries and strawberries permeate this graceful red wine, which is carried by a lively structure. Flashes of sun-kissed hay, iron and mint add depth as this wine builds to a lingering finish. Very harmonious, with a chalky sensation in the long, complex aftertaste." Wine Spectator

Sandro Chia's remarkable 2020 vintage is taut, forward and downright bold in the glass. On the palate, it impresses with a lot of natural richness and beautiful opulence of fruit, complemented by varietal elements of wild cherry, blue flowers and soft earth. Secondary flavours of tobacco, cedar and cinnamon then quickly surprise, adding complexity and personality to the wine, which is built up in many deep layers. It has wonderful potential for further ageing in the bottle, but it is already an absolute delight and the quality of the fruit and its length make it irresistible. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2020 Brunello di Montalcino is vividly fresh and focused, with a cascade of dried strawberries, minty herbs and shaved cedar forming its seductive bouquet. It is a paragon of purity, with silky textures and a graceful feel. It presents ripe red berry fruit accompanied by a tactile minerality. A gentle pull of fine tannins defines the finish. Notes of sour citrus fruits mingle with tart blackberries and liquorice." Vinous

"The epitome of elegance that is impossible to resist now, it has a light, gentle quality without lacking intrigue or nuance. It benefits from its lovely freshness, and its gentle tannins are seamlessly integrated, merging with and shaping a core of delicate wild berries. Hints of orange peel and ginseng permeate the wine, and the finish is characterised by a spicy note." Decanter

"The Brunello di Montalcino 2020 clearly stands out from its competitors, as it is characterised by its seamless mouthfeel, bright fruit concentration and balanced freshness. It is aged for 24 months in oak and the grapes are harvested from a site with cool clay soils. The finish is soft and polished. If you want to buy an Annata Brunello from the accessible 2020 vintage, I would recommend this wine." Wine Advocate

The Capestrano vineyard is located in the plain of Ofena, just a few kilometres from Popoli and still around 400 metres above sea level. It is part of the Convento vineyard and is planted throughout with Trebbiano d'Abruzzo. The unspoilt environment of the Capestrano spring located there has a high level of biodiversity, which is reflected in the numerous aquatic plants, bushes, flowers and spontaneous vegetation that, thanks to the indigenous yeasts, give the wines made from these grapes their unmistakable organoleptic profile.

Trebbiano d'Abruzzo Vigna del Convento di Capestrano is even more complex than the Vigneto di Popoli. Intense straw yellow in colour, it has a subtle, sweet aroma of yellow apples, spring flowers, crushed limestone and a hint of raw almonds. The silky, almost oily texture is contrasted by tart citrus fruits and minerals, while the acids stimulate the senses and create tension in the cheeks. This high-quality Trebbiano Abruzzese is more of a whisper than a shout. It will undoubtedly gain volume and depth with ageing, but is already a wine that can undoubtedly compete with the famous whites of Valentini and Emidio pep. SUPERIORE.DE

"Creamy nose with light notes of roasted cashews, biscuits, pie crust and grapes. Bright and phenolic on the palate, with fresh acidity and a nice nutty but savoury finish." James Suckling

"The 2020 Trebbiano d'Abruzzo Vigneto di Capestrano is decidedly flavoursome, with a mix of smoky gravel, sage and freshly cut apricots. Its texture is intense, it appears lifted, yet pleasantly ripe and almost creamy. Exotic spices and dusty, floral tones complement the ripe fruit flavours. The 2020 finishes long, colourful and lightly structured with a pleasantly bitter hint of ginger and crisp green apple. Fantastic." Vinous

40 years after acquiring the Montalcino branch Campogiovanni, the Tuscan flagship winery San Felice, which belongs to the Allianz insurance group, has decided on a further expansion called Bell'Aja. In the Bolgheri locality of Le Sondraie, 6 hectares of vineyards with clayey-sandy soils were selected, where mainly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot were planted over 12 years ago. There are only two wines from this new Bell'Aja appellation, Bolgheri Rosso and Bolgheri Rosso Superiore.

Rich ruby-garnet colour with a rusty-brown rim. Opens on the nose with delicate, ripe plums, dried blackberries, some cassis, then dark chocolate. Spans a wide arc on the palate with plenty of juice and volume, carried by fine, ripe tannins. Powerful as it progresses, with notes of bitter almond on the long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Multifaceted perfume of cherries, eucalyptus and pepper, also fine macchia spice; polished in the mouth, the acidity lively and in harmony with the tannins, the final ripe and plummy with balsamic components." Vinum

"Bright, elegant ruby red colour. Hints of sealing wax on the nose at the beginning, then opens up to rich berry fruit, strawberry jam, blackcurrant, a hint of precious wood. Taut on the palate, with earthy tannins and clear fruit, rich in structure and somewhat alcoholic on the finish, goes well with savoury dishes." Falstaff

"Bright and fresh nose with dark cherries, blackberries and hints of chocolate, liquorice and wet stones. Also some black olives. Medium to full body with a juicy, racy mid-palate and lively acidity. Ripe and polished tannins and a lingering aftertaste. An exciting and well-formed red wine." James Suckling

"Lush and supple in texture, but with lively acidity and finely crafted tannins, this red wine displays aromas and flavours of blackcurrant, plum, vanilla, coffee, iron and wild herbs. Powerful yet graceful, energetic and long, with a complex aftertaste that reflects fruit, mineral and oak elements." Wine Spectator

"This Superiore has a rich, concentrated and dark character, full of menthol, spiced plum, astringent chocolaty tannins, powerful cassis and a savoury undertone. Streaks of red fruit and ferrous intrigue on the mid-palate lighten the mood and finish on an herbal, minty note, but it really needs more time to develop." Decanter

Titolo Superiore is a selection that is refined for 12 months in tonneaux, followed by 12 months in used barrels and finally 12 months in the bottle. It has a dark, musky style and reveals an earthy bouquet intermingled with grilled herbs and blackcurrants. It flows across the palate like pure silk, gaining further tension as the mineral fruits of the forest slowly come to the fore. Firm and well-proportioned tannins glide into the finish, which is structured, long and almost salty. Citrus fruits and residual acids provide a refined freshness. Wonderful! SUPERIORE.DE

"Broodingly dark fruit with peppercorns, earthy funk and dried black fruit. Chewy and full-bodied on the palate, with bold tannins that still need time to resolve. It slowly opens up with some time in the glass." James Suckling

"The 2020 Aglianico del Vulture Superiore Titolo opens with a mentholated freshness, while a cascade of musky blackberry, sage, ash and dried violets meets a hint of sweet smoke. This wine is supple and racy, with a silky texture and a core of tart wild berries. Zesty acidity adds energy, while salty minerals and notes of tart citrus develop towards the finish. The 2020 finishes long and colours the palate with grippy tannins and a pleasant bitterness, but a wonderful freshness remains. This is a dark and radiant beast that requires long cellaring. Elena Fucci has only produced two barrels of this wine." Vinous

Sondraie, from which the wine takes its name, is a large plateau from Aurelia to Bellaria in the north of the appellation and one of the best sites for Cabernet in Bolgheri. The Oenologist Luca d'Attoma is considered one of the best interpreters of Cabernet Franc in Italy and his wines are always a clear buy. Bright violet colour. The nose is leafy, with dark chocolate and a characteristic aroma of coffee powder, plus blueberry, raspberry, black cherry and undergrowth. On the palate, melted cloves and cassis in perfect balance. Smooth and ripe, with a hint of chalk thanks to the oak tannins on the finish. Amazingly fresh and endlessly long, simply superb! SUPERIORE.DE

"Offers a potpourri of notes of blueberries, chocolate, leather and herbs; the attack is pithy, the tannins robust, ripe acidity, finishes superbly on notes of Mediterranean scrub, blackberries and chocolate." Vinum

"Intense, full garnet ruby colour. Complex on the nose with aromas of tar, dark chocolate, compact oak and lots of dark fruit. Polished and elegant on the palate, precise in the fruit, striking freshness, with young but very fine-grained tannins, still needs some time, but with plenty of ageing potential." Falstaff

"Powerful and firm tannins that set the stage for blackberries, blackcurrants, coffee, iron and a hint of dark chocolate. Smooth and balanced, with a dusty, bitter cocoa finish." Wine Spectator

"The Bolgheri Superiore Sondraia 2019 is a powerful, rather sombre wine. In this tasting, the 2019 stands out due to its extracted style and stronger oak character, which do not allow the wine to show its best side. Notes of dark red fruits, spices, tobacco, espresso and torrefaction unfold in the glass. All in all, this is a very good wine." Vinous

"Aromas of fresh herbs such as parsley and nettles, blackcurrants. Pure and concentrated. Full-bodied with beautiful polished tannins that are tailored and concentrated. Delicious finish. Beautiful balance and delicious for a young wine." James Suckling

"A fleshy, savoury bouquet gets its freshness from herbal and stony undertones, while a hint of salt and pepper adds pep. The palate becomes sweeter, with black cherries and chocolate, but retains the salt and pepper backbone. The tannins are tightly wrapped around a strong acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"Although the price has risen sharply due to demand, Sondraia is still one of the best wines in Bolgheri. This 2019 is extremely youthful, with estery notes on the nose, enhanced by restrained but layered and concentrated blackberry fruit, as well as menthol and chocolate in the depths. The attack is fleshy and firm rather than supple. Full-bodied, with angular tannins and firm acidity." Decanter

"The Poggio al Tesoro 2019 Bolgheri Superiore Sondraia makes excellent use of oak ageing, resulting in soft tannins, sumptuous richness and attractive concentration. The wine is very well made overall, with plenty of black fruit balanced by spices and tobacco. Its important structure suggests a long ageing period." Wine Advocate

Bright and radiant, with a lot of Nebbiolo character, it is a successful interpretation of the terroir and shows the great class of the winery. Sweet red cherries, tobacco, mint, aniseed and white pepper on the nose. Medium-bodied and graceful on the palate with a good balance of flavour, acidity and structure. With further bottle ageing, it looks set for a great development. SUPERIORE.DE

"Light, transparent garnet red colour with a brightening rim. Very appealing on the nose with aromas of sour cherries, raspberries and forest floor as well as hints of rose petals and thyme. Very juicy and fresh on the palate, almost youthful, with grippy tannins and a long final." Falstaff

"Earthy and herbaceous, with a hint of fruit leaves and a delicious aroma reminiscent of strawberry and blackcurrant jam. Freshly ground spices add depth, including sweet cinnamon and spicy thyme. The palate encounters the charm of a vintage with dried cherries, wild herbs and elegant tannins that evoke the timeless appeal of an old-school classic that is delicious now but will refine with age." Wine Enthusiast

"Very fine and polished with flavours of plums, strawberries and cedar wood as well as an undertone of iodine, shells and chocolate. Medium body, ultra-fine tannins and a lovely finish. It is balanced and beautiful. Such brightness and finesse with structure. It's attractive now, but it will reward patience." James Suckling

The Vigna del Sorbo vineyard is located directly in front of the winery. The south-west facing vineyard with Galestro soils covers 8 hectares at an altitude of 450 metres. The Riserva was first produced in 1985 and has been labelled Gran Selezione since the 2010 vintage.

Dark ruby red with light red highlights. Deep and initially unfathomable on the nose. But any spirit of discovery will be enchanted when it opens slowly and very balanced with red cherries, redcurrants, earth, sage and liquorice, revealing more facets with each passing minute. Finally, the mouthfeel shows a similar degree of extreme flavour balance with very fine but still young tannins. This medium-bodied structure, coupled with the wine's natural acidity, is an important guarantee of its great longevity. Our clear conclusion: there is not only a lot to discover here, but also to admire. Chapeau! SUPERIORE.DE

"Promising aromas of raspberries and flowers, with subtle notes of pepper; pithy on the palate, perfectly integrated acidity, lots of juice, power, plump tannins, character and a wonderful spicy final on notes of ripe cherries and sandalwood." Vinum

"Dark ruby red colour with a delicately brightening rim. On the nose, pronounced spicy aromas of ripe wild berries, rich Amarena cherries and clear pepper spice, with a leathery aftertaste. Tight-knit and pithy on the palate, spreads out with grip, very juicy, with a subtle salty undertone, powerful and long with plenty of character, still needs some bottle ageing." Falstaff

"Medium to deep ruby red colour. Spicy, mineral, elegant and a little reserved on the nose. Deep, juicy cherry fruit, supported by the right dose of chewy tannins. Very long. Concentrated, lively and relaxed at the same time." Jancis Robinson

"This wine is elegant, with floral, cherry, raspberry and mineral flavours. A hint of earth shines through, while the finish is graceful." Wine Spectator

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo 2019 is a powerful, virile wine with enormous depth and equally impressive tannins. An explosion of dark fruits, herbs, chocolate, menthol and spices flows from the glass. Generous tannins and a hint of rusticity suggest that the 2019 will not be one of the finest Sorbos, but it is a good effort for this year." Vinous

"Vigna del Sorbo lies at an altitude of 400 metres and has the classic Galestro soil of Chianti Classico. The warm, south-west facing vineyard typically produces a powerful, intense wine that requires ageing. The 2019 shows all the wild, penetrating characteristics of this site, but it quickly comes into harmony and reveals its balance and precision. The wood-accentuated notes of smoke and vanilla give way to pressed violets, rosemary and liquorice. Luscious red cherry and dark plum flesh is enveloped by long, layered, chalky tannins. The palate reveals an energetic bar of unwavering acidity that gives the wine a linear feel. Fennel and crushed stone linger on the finish." Decanter

"Usually excellent Sangiovese in purity of great elegance from Fontodi, with the step ahead of a great vintage. Nose of freshness, marasche, with officinal hints of citron thyme, mouth with a nice acidic shoulder, salty tannins, crispiness and incisiveness. Persistent." Luca Gardini

"This iconic wine has a whole new energy as it is now part of an exciting range of potential Gran Selezione wines being made at Fontodi. Two new additions to the portfolio (Pastrolo from cool Lamole and Terrazze San Leonlino from Panzano) help to give greater context to the organic 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo. This wine naturally benefits from many years of experience and the identity of Vigna del Sorbo is well established. However, soil connoisseurs will be delighted to compare the Vigna del Sorbo from slate-rich Galestro soils with the calcareous alternative from Terrazze San Leonlino. I tend to favour the Vigna del Sorbo because I particularly appreciate the mineral notes of pencil and iron ore that I find so appealing. These dusty notes are rounded off by sweet cherry fruit, plum and spices. Rising alcohol levels can be a problem in sun-drenched Panzano, and the wine team lets the vines grow higher in summer to provide shade and takes other active measures to combat this problem." Wine Advocate

As every year, the grapes for Riccardo Campinoti's "white label" come from the scattered vineyards of Le Ragnaie, making the wine a precise and classic snapshot of the diverse Montalcino area and the wonderful 2019 vintage: violets and Mediterranean scrub meet wild strawberries, stones and a fascinating earthiness. It also epitomises the vibrancy of Sangiovese, which initially appears medium-bodied and then gains strength as firm, dusty tannins wrap themselves around a tangy core. The finish is energetic and uplifting - an elegantly moulded Brunello with impeccable symmetry and purity of fruit. As with the estate's single-vineyard bottlings, fermentation is spontaneous, maceration lasts 45 to 50 days and ageing takes place in large Slavonian oak barrels. SUPERIORE.DE

"Almost medium ruby red colour. A lively, concentrated nose of fragrant red fruit. A real upgrade on the Rosso, more complex and with great depth without losing its elegance. Juicy, almost racy and pure on the finish with fine tannins that emphasise the fruit." Jancis Robinson

"The sum of the fruit from different plots in cooler and warmer regions reveals the characteristic tautness of Le Ragnaie. Delicately scented, the nose hints at game and then turns to brushwood, rose hips and alpine flowers. The core of cranberries and redcurrants is medium-bodied and firmly anchored. Bright acidity and firm, crisp tannins provide a solid framework." Decanter

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino opens slowly in the glass, dusty and floral, with a depth of dark red fruits and exotic spices. It is silky smooth with medium body and lively acidity that drives the tart wild berries and mineral tones, while rosy florals race across the palate. It finishes with admirable length and concentration. Crisp tannins frame the experience without slowing down the momentum. The 2019 is a wonderful result of the vintage and the style of the house. Don't let it pass you by." Vinous

"The Brunello di Montalcino 2019 shows delicate aromas of blue flowers, redcurrants, cranberries and floral earth. It has all the basic components of a classic Sangiovese. The fruit comes from the estate's vineyards, which are located at an altitude of 200 to 600 metres above sea level, the highest point of the appellation. The palate is spoilt with baking spices and silky, almost glossy tannins. The mouthfeel is very fine. This is a very Burgundian Brunello." Wine Advocate

"This red features a core of cherry and strawberry fruit, along with leafy underbrush and rosemary accents. Sinewy tannins take over midpalate, vying for attention with the fruit on the lingering, mineral-tinged aftertaste, yet this is elegant and balanced overall." Wine Spectator

Enrico Serafino's classic opens in a medium-dark colour with fragrant aromas of dark fruits, plums, spices, iron ore and freshly ploughed earth. Medium-bodied on the palate, rather slender, which is not a flaw, but emphasises the elegance and class of the Nebbiolo grape very nicely. The tannins are present but pleasantly tame, with peppery nuances on the finish, a salty mineral aftertaste and delicate nougat on the final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with a slightly lighter rim. Fruity nose of cherries, plums and forest fruits, with a light cedar wood note and a hint of liquorice in the background. Fresh, juicy and with gripping tannins on the palate, with a fruity, slightly drying finish." Falstaff

"The Comune del Serralunga d'Alba Barolo shows why this wine was created for the village. This wine shows classic Serralunga vitality, power and balance with aromas of crushed black cherries, wild roses, dried herbs and crushed stone on the nose. The dense palate offers a core of ripe red fruit with undergrowth, tea, liquorice root and leather, finishing with lively acidity and firm tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"Fresh and lively Barolo with notes of red berries, tangerine peel, dried flowers and bark. Medium to full-bodied. Crisp and structured with firm, dusty tannins. Juicy on the palate with red fruits and a spicy, savoury finish. Attractive now, but even better from 2025." James Suckling

Luca de Marchi's showpiece is the Rosso of the same name from the small DOC Lessona. Fresh garnet red and a rather restrained-cool aroma spectrum open with a lot of understatement the very powerful and spicy taste experience at the first sip, which, however, never seems muscular or fleshy, but expands with constant, medium pressure and a cornucopia of ripe fruit in the mouth. Here and also in the finish, the Lessona-style Nebbiolo comes to full fruition - unlike Barolo or Barbaresco with more restraint and instead a depth that only reveals itself after some time. Gripping and impressive - definitely aerate! SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2015 offers wonderfully fragrant rosehip, wet pine and rooibos with a hint of orange, then floral nuances. The lively palate is driven by straightforward acidity, while pomegranate flavours dissolve into silky, fine-grained tannins, finishing with a bracing, saline finish." Decanter

The grapes for the estate's classic Barolo (first harvest in 1881) come from the vineyards/communes of Ornato, La Serra, Briccolina in Serralunga d'Alba, Gustava and Garretti in Grinzane Cavour, Roncaglie in La Morra, Ravera in Novello and, from the 2015 vintage, also from Mosconi in Monforte d'Alba. It is more of a traditional, classic Barolo with an exciting bouquet of deep, dark fruit and a pretty potpourri of rose petals, spices, smoke and tar. It is full-bodied and firm on the palate, opening up with plenty of dense tannins, very powerful, with pressure and a full bite on the finish, designed for a long life. SUPERIORE.DE

"Ingratiating aromas of forest fruits, flowers and mushrooms; supple texture, the acidity well integrated, tightly woven tannin, ends on flavours of ripe stone fruit and spices." Vinum

"Dense, fruity bouquet with rich red fruit and ripe cherries. An intense, juicy-melting drink, ripe cherries, modern Barolo, juicy finish, polished tannins, lingers with ripe fruit." Weinwisser

"Medium transparent garnet red colour with a slightly brightening rim. Fine and elegant aromas of wild berries, sour cherries, some blood orange and light herbal flavours on the nose. Gripping on the palate with flavours of black tea, very present tannins and a multi-layered final." Falstaff

"This 2020 comes from vineyards scattered throughout the region and offers a gentle aroma of cherries and wild berries, sous bois and a hint of menthol. Compared to Barbaresco, it shows more verticality and intensity, with fine, round tannins wrapped in an energetic acidity. Dark cherry, mint and a hint of liquorice and herbs characterise this fine wine." Decanter

"A blend of cherry, strawberry, rose, tar and underbrush aromas and flavours highlight this elegant, solid red wine. Smooth in texture until dusty tannins emerge on the finish. Overall very balanced, with a very long finish." Wine Spectator

"The Pio Cesare 2020 Barolo has an approachable style for sure, with classic Nebbiolo tones of berry fruit, orange peel and licorice. It reveals an integrated and silky personality and tannins that feel very inviting for near and medium-term drinking." Wine Advocate

"Very primary fruit with beautiful flavours of peaches, strawberries, berries and flowers. It is medium to full-bodied, with the character of bitter citrus, cedar, chocolate and coffee beans. Firm on the finish. It needs two or three years to open up and will mature for a very long time." James Suckling

Pianrosso comes from a south-west facing vineyard in the Castelnuovo dell'Abate subzone at an altitude of around 300 metres with mainly Galestro soils. It is dark, rich and deeply seductive, showing ripe black fruit enveloped in hints of gravel, sage and exotic spices. Although it has a velvety and almost creamy texture, it finds harmony through juicy acids and a blend of ripe black cherries and plums. Notes of liquorice and baker's chocolate balance the salty minerality and fine-grained tannins of the Pianrosso in a long and dramatic final. For a wine with such power, this is a beautiful symmetry. Definitely put it away for a few more years. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Cru is a selection of the best vines. Dark, spicy bouquet, extremely complex and multi-faceted, beguiling with fresh, ethereal, smoky and herbaceous notes reminiscent of Mediterranean herbs, with mineral, salty hints and floral nuances (rose petals, violet blossom), backed by redcurrant. Dense and powerful on the palate with a core of fresh, juicy fruit, very cleverly arranged, skilfully framed by fine, polished, almost sweetish tannins that linger on forever, very elegant, with dark, ethereal-balsamic spicy notes on the long final." Weinwisser

"Sparkling ruby colour with a bright garnet rim. Finely drawn, appealing nose with clear notes of rosehip, crisp cherries, some blood orange and clove. Opens on the palate with pithy, gripping tannins, flows calmly, with a lovely sweet mellowness on the finish, very good tension, savoury and long." Falstaff

"Sweet berries and cherries on the nose, along with fresh violet and lilac notes. Full-bodied with juicy tannins and a spicy finish that opens up on the palate. Lots of ripe cherry flavour. Also tar. A rich and multi-layered Pianrosso. One of the bigger, riper wines of the vintage." James Suckling

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Pianrosso tempts the imagination with a darkly alluring bouquet that keeps the taster at the edge of the glass as a cooling whiff of smoke gives way to dried flowers, cedar and exotic spice. It flows across the palate with textures of pure silk, finessed and graceful, with depths of intense red and black fruits that slowly saturate. The 2019 turns inward upon itself through the finish, tannic and long with notes of licorice and cacao bean. This is a serious rendition of Pianrosso that will require patience to enjoy fully. That said, it’s sure to be worth the wait." Vinous

"Pianrosso is a selection from the vineyard of the same name: 11 hectares in the lower south-east of Montalcino. The grapes were harvested between 11 September and 4 October 2019, which suggests a classic vintage. It shines with its earl grey tea aroma, combined with dark cherry, cinnamon, liquorice and a floral bouquet. The fruit character is very dark and precise; marvellous in this vintage. Full-bodied, dense and velvety with firm, long yet integrated acidity, it tapers off on the finish, but this is a sign of its elegance." Decanter

"The Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Pianrosso opens with a broad and all-encompassing bouquet of dried cherries or cherry pie with crust, plum cake and rose potpourri. There are obvious oak tones, but they fade into underbrush, grilled herbs and the generous texture of this wine. Even the 15% alcohol content disappears into the fleshy fruitiness of the wine. Certainly this is a wine that needs more bottle age to develop the suppleness and beautiful freshness of such an important Sangiovese." Wine Advocate

"A cornerstone of the typology, we are in the south-east region of the denomination, a stone's throw from Castelnuovo dell'Abate. Rich nose, notes of red mulberries, then rosemary and hints of Peranzana olives. The flavour is spicy, with a return of red mulberry and iodised nuances." Luca Gardini

Translucent purple with a fresh garnet red rim. The bouquet is a potpourri of dried fruits, truffles, dark chocolate and delicate nougat notes. Opens fruity and velvety on the palate and will give pleasure for many years to come with its straightforwardness and wonderfully integrated acidity. SUPERIORE.DE

"Plum, cherry, eucalyptus, iron and tobacco aromas and flavors combine in this fluid yet firmly structured red, which is intense, lingering with a long aftertaste that echoes the savory elements." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Barbaresco Fausoni with fruit from Neive is another great wine from Sottimano. This expression is polished and glossy, showing tremendous purity for all the senses. Thanks to the graceful aromas of cassis, dried raspberries and plums, you can get excited about this bottle. These wines from the village of Neive are showing excellent results in this cooler 2018 vintage." Wine Advocate

"The 2018 Barbaresco Fausoni is another super classic in this range from Sottimano. Floral, spicy and orange peel accents add brightness to this ethereal, very expressive Barbaresco. The 2018 needs a few more years in bottle to develop, but it's already beautiful. This classically austere Barbaresco will appeal most to harvestwith a traditionally oriented palate." Vinous

The Vigna del Sorbo vineyard is located directly in front of the winery. The south-west facing vineyard with Galestro soils covers 8 hectares at an altitude of 450 metres. The Riserva was first produced in 1985 and has been labelled Gran Selezione since the 2010 vintage.

Dark ruby red with light red highlights. Deep and initially unfathomable on the nose. But any spirit of discovery will be enchanted when it opens slowly and very balanced with red cherries, redcurrants, earth, sage and liquorice, revealing more facets with each passing minute. Finally, the mouthfeel shows a similar degree of extreme flavour balance with very fine but still young tannins. This medium-bodied structure, coupled with the wine's natural acidity, is an important guarantee of its great longevity. Our clear conclusion: there is not only a lot to discover here, but also to admire. Chapeau! SUPERIORE.DE

"Single-vineyard wine from 55-year-old vines in the Conca d'Oro of Panzano: seductive notes of raspberries, spiced up with notes of dried roses and pepper; balanced texture, the acidity fresh, the tannins velvety and long-lasting. Pleasing with its fullness and elegance." Vinum

"Bright ruby red colour, dark. A savoury nose of ripe cherries, wild berries, graphite, dark spices and peppercorns, with a wet earth aftertaste. Juicy on the palate, with tightly woven tannins and superbly developed cherry fruit, profound and earthy, beautiful length, the months of additional ageing have done the wine a lot of good." Falstaff

"Aromas of stems, dried meat, berries and cherries with some dusty earth. The palate is firm and fresh, bright and crisp. It shows a certain texture of cement and stone." James Suckling

"The 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is one of the most backward editions of this wine that I can remember tasting. Dark and almost sombre, the Vigna del Sorbo packs a tonne of intensity into its deceptively mid-weight frame. In many vintages, the Vigna del Sorbo is quite showy in its youth. This is not at all the case with the 2020, a wine that will need many more years to show its best side. With time, hints of lavender, dried herbs, plums and graphite emerge, but the 2020 is clearly a child. There is a sense of youthful austerity (in a positive sense) that I find very appealing. The Sorbo 2020 is a wine for those who can wait." Vinous

"This red is tightly wound, straightforward in profile and full of flavours of black cherries, blackberries, blueberries, fresh loam and minerals, supported by lively acidity and dense, soft tannins that combine beautifully with the tension and silky texture. Shows fantastic length." Wine Spectator

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo 2020 (with an edition of 25,000 bottles) is a generous expression of Sangiovese of unique intensity, showing tremendous precision and focus. This organic wine offers black fruits, grilled rosemary, pressed rose and crushed limestone. All of these flavours have a particular forward intensity that combines with the generous fruit richness for which this sunny vintage will be remembered." Wine Advocate

"A wine capable of expressing itself for years at the absolute top of the typology, Sangiovese with a small contribution of Cabernet Sauvignon, but above all the territory of Panzano. Intense nose, black currant, officinal scents, of citron thyme, then notes of clementine peel. At the sip is savory, with a fruity recall." Luca Gardini

Bright, rich ruby red colour. Elegant, concentrated bouquet with spicy notes of blackcurrant, chocolate and tobacco. Compact on the palate, excellently structured and very well balanced with noticeable acidity and pleasant tannins. Long and very fruity. A seducer with great elegance and a terrificfinish. All our respect for this great wine from Apulia! SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful ruby colour with a fine violet sheen. Very intense and appealing nose of ripe blackberries, some blueberries, plus smoke, cloves and cardamom. Lots of fine-grained tannins, coated in fine enamel, firm pressure on the final, rich earthy notes." Falstaff

"A very intensely fruity wine with a multi-layered profile that ranges from sweet blackcurrants to crushed roses, black cherries and a hint of spice. On the palate, it is dry to semi-dry, full-bodied, soft and supple. For its opulence and moderate acidity, it is easy to drink. A polished yet warming finish." James Suckling