0.75 liter

Do you know the small vineyard Basarin near Neive? A bright ruby garnet awaits you and a wine from a particularly beautiful vintage: on the nose, a cornucopia of aromas of wild sour cherry, herbs, some liquorice and tobacco. Firm and very clearly structured on the palate, muscular and yet with an elegance that never loses control due to its power. Basarin is a highly energetic and precise Nebbiolo that reveals its complexity only with some patience and aeration. The neighbouring terroir Neive shows itself with distinguished elegance and marries harmoniously with the volume and weight typical of the site - and in a depth that only vines over 50 years old can produce. SUPERIORE.DE

"Mid ruby with orange tinges. Captivating nose of deep perfumed cherry fruit with hints of white pepper and a minty cardamom hint. Supple, concentrated palate with firm but ripe tannins. Long and multi-layered and with plenty of future." Jancis Robinson

"Steeped plum, cherry, eucalyptus, tar and mineral flavors are backed by beefy tannins in this streamlined red. A core of ripe fruit plies the middle, before the tannins exert their grip on the finish. Muscular, yet balanced and long." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Barbaresco Basarin is a very pretty, classy wine. Dark red cherry, pomegranate, flowers and licorice notes are all nicely lifted. An elegant, supple wine, the Basarin will drink well with minimal cellaring. The purity of the fruit is striking. Readers will find a wine of total elegance and class. This is a stellar showing." Vinous

"Balsamic aromas of camphor mingle with earthy whiffs of forest floor, new leather, cedar and wild berries on this elegant, full-bodied red. The tight, linear palate is delicious and loaded with personality, delivering ripe Morello cherry, mocha, licorice and an earthy note of truffle framed in firm, fine-grained tannins. Fresh acidity keeps it well-balanced." Wine Enthusiast

"The Sottimano 2018 Barbaresco Basarin shows tart cherry fruit and plum backed by lovely layers of crushed mineral, iron ore, spice and crushed flowers. The wine reveals an inner brightness or tartness that tastes terrific next the more nuanced character of the Nebbiolo grape. Basarin shows power and elegance in equal measure, and that is never an easy feat for any winemaker to accomplish. Production is limited to 5,500 bottles." Wine Advocate

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

Here comes the most opulent and friendly Barbaresco of Sottimano's overall highly impressive line-up of single vineyards. Bright garnet red with a copper rim. Lavish scent of black fruits, orange peel, rounded off with a fine nutty note. Fine-grained tannin even at a young age coats the firm structure and reinforces the easily recognisable highly individual character. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brightening, medium dense garnet red. Very finely marked nose with rich notes of fresh dark cherries, clear and bright, some anchovy and caper leaves behind. Gripping and gripping on the palate, opens with present, dense tannin, builds nicely, juicy on the final." Falstaff

"Fresh and light on its feet, this cherry- and strawberry-flavored red is accented by floral, tobacco and savory notes. Its tannins are refined, providing a firm layer of support. Shows excellent balance and length." Wine Spectator

"This wine, whose fruit comes from Treiso, is often characterised by its immediate and accessible personality, with silky tannins and delicate floral aromas. The Sottimano family cultivates five different vineyard sites in the appellation. The 2017 Barbaresco Pajoré is a little more restrained in this vintage, with a wide range of earthy, wild fruit and liquorice aromas. This expression offers a lower threshold for aromatic highlights. However, the palate is more polished and constructed in this vintage, with firm, freestanding tannins providing lift." Wine Advocate

"Violets, new leather, truffle and spiced plum are just some of the aromas you will find in this captivating red wine. Full-bodied and with youthful tension, the linear palate offers ripe sour cherry, spiced cranberry, star anise and tobacco, framed by tight, fine-grained tannins. Drink 2023-2030." Wine Enthusiast

The Sottimano winery has five vineyard sites, with the Pajorè site near Treiso having the poorest soils of all. These wines are therefore more elegant and ripe. The current 2018 vintage is a super-classic, explosive wine, with tremendous depth and character. Although it has a lot of breadth and texture, it remains light on its feet. Lavender, mint, liquorice and purple berry fruit are beguiling and wonderfully vibrant in the glass. Pajorè is a spicy, elegant and sweet Nebbiolo that is fine yet covers the mouth well - and we are always impressed by its lovely salty mouthfeel. SUPERIORE.DE

"Wild rosemary and sage notes mingle with plum and cherry fruit in this enticing red, which is harmonious and feels rich midpalate, ending with floral, berry and herb accents, along with moderate tannins." Wine Spectator

"With fruit from Treiso, the 2018 Barbaresco Pajoré shows a lot of shape and depth, all supported by generous but carefully balanced fruit. The bouquet is layered with summer cherry and dried cassis, with earthy tones, camphor ash and powdered licorice. You also get a whiff of crushed flowers or roses. This is an extremely silky and elegant wine with only 6,000 bottles produced." Wine Advocate

"The 2018 Barbaresco Pajorè is quite closed. It shows all the translucent elegance of all the wines in the range. Spice, mineral, melted road tar, rose petal, leather and lavender bring out the darker, more balsamic inflections of Nebbiolo. This potent, structured Barbaresco is quite backward today. Readers need to be especially patient." Vinous

Piccolomini's most famous wine comes from a south-west-facing vineyard in the Castelnuovo dell'Abate subzone at an altitude of around 350 metres with mainly Galestro soils. Pianrosso is considered the estate's most representative vineyard and was replanted in the 1980s. The Brunello of the same name is weightier and richer than the estate's normal Brunello and also somewhat more mineral. Aromas of red berries, camphor and tobacco combine with roses in this fragrant, full-bodied red wine. The soft palate is concentrated yet elegant, with raspberry jam, cherry preserved in spirits, liquorice and coffee beans. There is also a subtle salty minerality and fine-grained tannins that bring it to a long and dramatic final. For a wine with such power, this is a wonderful symmetry. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, elegant ruby red colour. Restrained on the nose, still, cold smoke, burnt sage. Savoury on the palate with a rich entry and progression, polished and with creamy tannins, needs some time in the glass, then comes in several layers, powerful, rich and full-bodied, muscular and opulent, fiery." Falstaff

"Inviting bouquet of a potpourri of red forest fruits, spices and dried flowers; harmonious texture, fine-grained tannins, invigorating acidity, the long finish is extremely fruity and elegant." Vinum

"The 2020 is rather lavish, verging on heavy though not without fascination. Overtly fragrant, it exudes rose potpourri, cardamom, balsamic herbs and caramel. Plush and full, the palate hinges around strawberry compote modestly countered by soft acidity, with tannins that are persistently dusty. This will appeal to those seeking a big, opulent Brunello." Decanter

"The bouquet reveals dark fruit aromas, cherry liqueur, brandied plum and sweet crème de cassis. This is a thickly grained Brunello with a soft, richly textured core. I recommend a medium-term drinking window." Wine Advocate

"Freshly split pine, tobacco and stone dust gives way to dried strawberries and mint nuances as the 2020 Brunello di Montalcino Pianrosso slowly blossoms in the glass. Silken and serene, this excels through its acidity, cool-toned and fresh, enlivening the 2020s core of rich wild berry fruits. Hints of blood orange add further gravitas as it finishes with a surprisingly juicy character, leaving edgy tannins and a pleasantly bitter concentration. This wild child will require cellaring to come fully into focus, yet I'm incredibly excited to revisit it in another three to five years." Vinous

"Intense, vibrant aromas of strawberries and raspberries, together with cola and flowery notes. Milk and mint nuances, too. Shows a lot of licorice elegance and blood-orange freshness on both the nose and palate with firm, velvety tannins and well-packed, brilliant acidity and a polished finish. Good aftertaste and amazing potential. Very classic." James Suckling

Here comes the third vintage of Zerbina's single-vineyard Sangiovese, with which the winery once again proves in a very small edition (< 1,000 bottles) what great Sangiovese Romagna can produce. Dark-fruited, full nose with a cornucopia of dark berry fruits and hints of forest floor, tar and white ash. Firm on the palate, enormously complex, the concentrated fruit gradually opens up with further airing and a Sangiovese work of art is revealed that could not be more typical, pure and at the same time more complex. Great compliment! SUPERIORE.DE

Montestefano Riserva is exquisite and harmonious from start to finish. Of the Produttori's nine great Riservas, it is the one that best conceals its tannins, as the fruit is intensely fragrant, rich and seductive. For us, it is a synthesis of Montefico, Ovello and Rabajà. Today, Montestefano gives the impression of being relatively accessible, but it will almost certainly go through a few more stages of closure before it fully opens up. The bouquet surprises us with sheer endless complexity and depth. Its silky, polished tannins give an impression of sensual elegance. Crushed meadow flowers, mint, liquorice and dark red cherries are just some of the notes that envelop the deep, long finish. Fabulous! SUPERIORE.DE

"Spicy and mineral nose. Very appetising and complex." Jancis Robinson

"Restrained, but not boring at first. Very mineral nose with peach zest, orange zest, sweet violets and vermouth-like complexity, firm tannins, medium body, crisp acidity and an extracted but classic finish." James Suckling

"The 2019 Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano is perhaps the most complete of the 2019 Riservas at this stage. It offers fine depth, plenty of tannin and an emerging inner sweetness that holds everything together. The Montestefano is a wine of stature and textural depth and my first favourite in this range." Vinous

"This aromatic red wine shows flavours of cherries, roses, white pepper, eucalyptus, iron and tobacco. Firmly built, with dense tannins and a spicy finish, this is balanced but needs time." Wine Spectator

"Powerful aromas that start with black raspberries, stewed cherries and a mix of sweet and savoury spices. Subtle floral and herbal notes add to the depth of the nose. The palate is broad and rich, with a generous helping of mixed berry jam with crushed pepper and dried herbs. The tannins are masterful with a refined nature that brings out the soul of Nebbiolo and shows how well this wine will age." Wine Enthusiast

"Rich, abundant and defined by an elegant mineral tone that gives it backbone and linearity. It boasts plenty of dark fruit at its core with a presentation that is firmly structured and tightly coiled. The wine's tannic structure is bold and powerful, requiring more bottle age." Wine Advocate

The fruit for this wine comes from four unique vineyards at different altitudes, all located in different parts of the appellation. Le Ragnaies Brunello 2020 is a tour de force of Sangiovese that traverses the entire continuum of Sangiovese. It begins auspiciously with wild cherry, followed by pressed blue flowers, spices and floral earth. In addition to these typical tones, there are also cherry, blackcurrant and other classic Sangiovese flavours, followed by notes of dried mint and Mediterranean herbs in the impressive final. The lasting impression of this very special Brunello is its brilliance and purity, which delight us every year, especially with the wines from Le Ragnaie. SUPERIORE.DE

"This wine is a blend of vineyards in the south-east of Montalcino and in the north, as well as from the high-altitude vineyards of the estate in the centre of the region, and is a panoramic rendition of the Le Ragnaie vintage. It is influenced by the estate's preference for an early harvest, emphasising freshness and a medium-weight frame. Pomegranate is nuanced by rose, tobacco and forest floor. It is light on its feet with an elegant, straightforward backbone and has just the right amount of flesh on its bones." Decanter

"The 2020 Brunello di Montalcino is incredibly fresh, combining wild strawberry and sweet herbal tones with stone dust and a hint of wilted violets. It is a model of purity, soft and round, yet focused with ripe wild berry flavours that soak up saline minerals towards the end. The finish is long and colourful but still fresh, leaving a salty tang and edgy tannins to frame the experience." Vinous

"Le Ragnaie's style is classic and emphasises transparency and freshness. His Brunello di Montalcino 2020 is a blend of fruit from different parcels. The majority of the blend comes from the vineyards in the immediate vicinity of the winery at high altitudes. What stands out is the focus and energy of the bouquet, with delicate berry and floral notes and even a hint of fresh mint. It has a polished texture." Wine Advocate

Barbaresco Vanotu is the most powerful Barbaresco from Pelissero and also the top wine every year. Attractive garnet red colour, concentrated, hearty bouquet with fine tobacco and leather notes. Lush, deep and multi-layered in the glass, it offers generous dark fruit, mocha, spices, liquorice, plum and sweet French oak. A spectacular and masculine wine with great ageing Storage potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Shows cherry and berry flavors, framed by sweet spices and balsamic notes of eucalyptus and sandalwood. Though light in weight, this red is firmly structured and balanced, with fine length." Wine Spectator

The Sottimano winery has five vineyard sites, with the Pajorè site near Treiso having the poorest soils of all. These wines are therefore more elegant and ripe. Pajoré is a super-classic, explosive wine, with tremendous depth and character. Although it has a lot of breadth and texture, it remains light on its feet. Lavender, mint, liquorice and purple berry fruit are beguiling and wonderfully vibrant in the glass. Pajorè is a spicy, elegant and sweet Nebbiolo that is fine yet covers the mouth well - and we are always impressed by its lovely salty mouthfeel. SUPERIORE.DE

"The strong site character comes through nicely, the earthy spice paired with juice, velvet and charming fruit can please, the sturdy tannin gives a nice frame." Weinwisser

"Lustrous mid ruby. A concentrated raspberry nose that is a little brooding. With aeration, it opens up and shows fantastic depth of fruit with touches of cinnamon bark. Juicy sweet raspberry fruit and finely ground, chewy tannins vie for attention. Really elegant and still quite youthful, so it needs more time." Jancis Robinson

"The 2019 Barbaresco Pajorè is dense and quite closed in on itself. Then again, that is Pajorè. There's terrific depth and density here, but not quite the power of some recent releases. That's not a bad thing, as the more restrained style allows the nuance to come through. This is an especially refined edition of the Pajorè. Today, the Pajorè is quite compact and a bit of a bruiser, but there's terrific fruit intensity that just needs time to blossom." Vinous

"Plenty of red fruit with cranberry and watermelon undertones. Fresh flowers, too. Full-bodied with tannins that are back-loaded and give you a punch at the end of the palate. The center-palate has bright flavors of strawberry and orange with hints of flowers. Try after 2025." James Suckling

"Truffle, red berry, rose and sandalwood aromas slowly take shape in the glass. Taut and linear, the palate reveals truffle, dried cherry, orange zest and star anise accompanied by fine-grained, rather drying tannins and fresh acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"This Barbaresco displays breadth, providing the framework for macerated cherry, plum, earth, menthol, licorice and tar flavors. Chewy in the end, with freshness and complexity. Be patient." Wine Spectator

"Here's a beautifully elegant and fine expression of Nebbiolo from Treiso. The Sottimano 2019 Barbaresco Pajoré shows an earthy personality with crushed stone and potting soil that frame a pretty core of red and purple fruits. I love the depth and complexity of this wine and the slightly more structured tannins that give this wine power and importance." Wine Advocate

"From vineyard located in Treiso, with plants of 50-60 years, a Barbaresco of great finesse. Strawberry tree on the nose, with notes of eucalyptus and white pepper, closed by hints of wild mint. Palate with iodine-brackish tannins, fruity and mentholated return." Luca Gardini

The estate's top wine, named after the owner, is the result of many years of work in the vineyard and dates back to the year 2000, when the winery began to replant many of its own plots with Sangiovese. To this day, Sergio Zingarelli pursues the goal of interpreting his existing terroir as authentically as possible. The result is the highest classification Gran Selezione, which is confirmed every year by the consortium and is only awarded to the best wines in the appellation.

Rich ruby colour. Concentrated nose of herbs, black cherry, chocolate, earthy notes and oak spice. Juicy and soft fruit on the palate, refined tannins, glides dynamically and spicy into a respectable finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, elegantly shining ruby colour. Opens on the nose on notes of black tea, incense, sage, then a little fumé, ripe cherry, wild berries. Dense, taut, very full-bodied on the palate, opens with many layers and tightly woven tannins, warm and clear fruit, with a lot of pressure on the finish." Falstaff

"Closed nose, needs air and/or time. Fragrant, clear floral nose, violets, menthol. Ripe fruit on the palate, cherry, strawberry, a little cocoa powder. Delicate, yet powerful, clearly structured. Offers great pleasure now, is fun, but has the substance for further maturation. Finishes long." Vinum

"Vibrant cherry, plum and chocolate flavours are balanced by loamy earth, sage and sanguine notes in this tasty red, which has considerable depth and intensity, though it is restrained and closed at this stage." Wine Spectator

"The Rocca delle Macìe 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Sergio Zingarelli is the top wine in this winery's portfolio. A dark and beautifully concentrated expression that shows lots of dark fruit and plums." Wine Advocate

"Beautiful sweet fruit with plums and cherries as well as some walnut and smoky character. Fine, polished tannins. It's medium to full-bodied with firm, creamy tannins and a fruity finish. Delicious now, but will improve with age." James Suckling

Rich straw yellow colour, rich, complex aroma with a delicate, pleasantly creamy nose and the scent of citrus and pineapple, on the other hand lots of structured spice and a hint of vanilla. The winery's white flagship brings its primary fruit to the fore with impressive intensity, but it also offers plenty of exciting complexity in a second wave of subtle flavours that testify to extreme care and precision in winemaking. The lingering finish is refined with a subtle hint of bitter almond. SUPERIORE.DE

"Smoky nose with golden fruits, then pink grapefruit on the palate, buttery notes, spiced vanilla and harmonious oak." Decanter

"Graphite and smoke underscore the persimmon, plum skin, white cherry and almond flavours in this clean, savoury white." Wine Spectator

"A classy wine with a profound and complex profile. The nose is fully focused on tension, with vibrant aromas of pink grapefruit, linden tree flowers, apricots, Mirabelle plums, green apples and toast. Oily texture with zesty, integrated acidity. It’s long, smooth, full-bodied and weighted in the finish. Candied fruit aftertaste." James Suckling

Fragrant bouquet of light blossoms, peach and tropical fruits, slight hints of honey and minerals. Supple texture on the palate, very balanced, complex and with an invigorating mineral freshness. A very rare, remarkable Tuscan Chardonnay, aged for 11 months on lees in barriques. Chardonnay Collezione Privata is a real achievement, especially for its natural ability to present the purity of the grape variety and the importance of texture in equal measure. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2021 Chardonnay Collezione Privata is a wine of unusual pedigree and depth. Lemon zest, dried pear, chamomile, white pepper and crushed rock give the 2021 a layered complexity. I particularly admire the sense of verticality in this wine." Vinous

"Bright straw yellow. Ripe white fruits with a hint of spicy oak, a touch of oatmeal and cut lemon. Focused and with a hint of orange blossom. White fruits with just a hint of oak that is very restrained. Gentle, citrusy white fruit flavours with a hint of creaminess, but the focus was clearly on maintaining freshness; something that is increasingly in demand as global warming increases. The wine is very drinkable but should become even more interesting in a few years." Jancis Robinson

"Attractive aromas of walnut, peach pit and vanilla with grilled lemon and sliced quince. Full and textured with a creamy mouthfeel. Structured and complex with nutty and mineral undertones on the finish. Rounded and long lasting final." James Suckling

"The Isole e Olena 2021 Chardonnay Collezione Privata has a very citrusy side with grapefruit and preserved lemon. These fresh aromas transition into hints of cinnamon and saffron, but the overall style is reductive in character. This is a medium-bodied white wine with a nice richness and salty, mineral notes on the finish. This Tuscan Chardonnay has a lot of character. However, the wine needs time to gain more weight and texture." Wine Advocate

"Bright, intense straw yellow with light green nuances. Opens with notes of hazelnuts and white asparagus, then pear and fresh apple. Fresh and clear on the nose, salty, opens very nicely, creates a wide range of tension, creamy on the final." Falstaff

The Collio Chardonnay Selezione with a grey label in a small edition of just 2,000 bottles is another special wine from Borgo del Tiglio, characterised by extreme varietal purity and a light, lively and airy bouquet. The wine's aromas are characterised on the one hand by fresh apricots and nectarines and on the other by creamy almond paste, preserved lemon and poached pear. The warmth of the 2023 vintage has contributed to an added textural richness that makes it a perfect match for an appetiser of escargots. SUPERIORE.DE

Reserve your best fish recipe for the Borgo del Tiglio Collio Sauvignon Selezione. It is a textbook rendition of the fragrant grape, dressed in a manner typical of Friuli. In fact, compared to Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand, this region tends to produce softer wines that do not have pungent green notes. The bouquet is floral and delicate, with notes of white rose, fruit, quince and delicate lemon. There is also a very pronounced mineral note, reminiscent of crushed shells, in this edition of 1,200 bottles, which immediately transports you to the north-east of Italy. Hats off! SUPERIORE.DE

Borgo del Tiglio's Collio Rosso Riserva is a northern Italian Merlot (with the addition of 5% Cabernet Franc) and is only vinified in the best vintages. A beautiful red with a delicate personality and a resting intensity that emphasises a kind of elegance that is particularly rare for this grape variety. On the nose, redcurrant, sour cherry, blue flowers and hints of caraway and crushed linseed. A great, exceptional red wine, of which only 1,200 bottles were produced. SUPERIORE.DE

Andrea Cortonesi's Brunello di Montalcino 2020 shows its best side right from the start; it is a Brunello of profound beauty, intensity and complexity. The nose is characterised by a generous dose of primary fruit, primarily cherry and blackberry. This is complemented by wonderfully balanced secondary flavours from the oak, reminiscent of spices, cinnamon and dark smoke. On the palate, it explodes from the starting line and delivers a steady pace throughout. Subtle notes of spice and barbecue smoke add further facets to the impressive finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"It starts with an abundance of lavender, cinnamon and chocolate and develops into a palate of macerated cherry and blackberry coulis. The tannins layer up but are pliable. The warming alcohol also rises. The finish is infused with Mediterranean herbs." Decanter

"A compact and fresh Brunello 2020 with the character of red cherries, plums and peaches. Medium body, fine tannins and a tangy finish. It should be given two or three years to open up and soften, but it is already crisp and fresh. Simply delicious." James Suckling

"The Brunello di Montalcino 2020 is enchanting. Youthfully shy, it shows a minty freshness and a wild herbal thrust that gives way to bright cherry berry fruit accompanied by a hint of worn leather. This wine is energetic and lively, yet elegant, with crunchy wild berries and a cascade of sweet spices underscored by zesty acidity. The 2020 is tannic and powerful, but still fresh, with a finish of tart cranberry and sour citrus that shrivels the cheeks and leaves the palate wanting more. This is a wild vintage of Uccelliera's Brunello di Montalcino. It is structured for the long haul and is already a pleasure to drink." Vinous

Only 2,000 numbered bottles of the 2018 debut vintage of the "Vigna del Bersagliere" Morellino di Scansano Riserva were filled. The grapes for the new top Sangiovese from Podere 414 come from a small, organically cultivated vineyard of just 1.3 hectares above the winery. It is aged for 36 months in 500 Liters and then refined for 24 months in the bottle. Bright ruby red in colour. Primary aromas of ripe, dark fruit with spicy notes in the glass. Firmly structured on the palate, again dark fruit, plus plums and earthy tones. It is still young and somewhat angular in the glass, but its exceptional style and good acidity/tannin structure already suggest very good ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intriguing wild berry nose, spiced up with herbal notes; pleasing on the palate, with noticeable acidity, fine-grained tannins, notes of berries, rose petals and subtle spices on the final." Vinum

"A powerful red wine with notes of cloves, dried cherries, cedar wood, orange peel and olives. It is medium to full-bodied, creamy in texture, with firm, still relatively stable tannins. Walnuts at the end. Let it mature." James Suckling

The Vigna del Sorbo vineyard is located directly in front of the winery in the municipality of Panzano. 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.

This organically grown Sangiovese from a single vineyard is characterised by its impeccable balance, purity and beautiful intensity. Fresh on the nose with aromas of red cherries and lemon thyme. Vigna del Sorbo has a pronounced fruitiness on the palate, which contrasts beautifully with the spicy and tobacco-like notes. This is closely followed by a lovely acidic note, salty tannins, great compactness and spiciness. All of this, together with the supple and delicately sweet tannins, makes this Gran Selezione an unforgettable exceptional wine full of vigour and elegance in this vintage too! SUPERIORE.DE

"Single-vineyard wine from old vines in the Conca d'Oro of Panzano: Seductive stone fruit aromas, also notes of dried roses and herbs; youthful texture, acidity and tannins in balance, the finish leaves you wanting more. Powerful yet elegant style." Vinum

"Dark, sparkling, intense ruby red colour. Spicy, savoury bouquet of ripe cherry and wild berries, with notes of leather, cayenne pepper and undergrowth. Fresh on the palate with a precise fruit centre, tightly woven tannins, with a fine spiciness on the long finish." Falstaff

"Wow. This wine is rich and decadent, with notes of cherry, orange peel, stone and terracotta as well as crushed stone and cedar. It's medium-bodied with a solid fruit core and a very long, lingering finish. Extremely structured." James Suckling

"The 2021 unfolds leisurely from a smoky layer of incense to dusty, sun-baked earth and black cherry. The palate is powerful and robust, with dense fruit, hints of clove and cedar and the purity of blackcurrant. A loamy, terracotta-like texture is accompanied by generous, chewy tannins. There's enough here for a long rest in the cellar." Decanter

"The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is an absolute stunner. Deep, complex and explosive, the 2021 captures all the magic of this year in abundance. Black cherry, lavender, mocha, spices and liquorice pour from the glass. It's a wine of statuesque beauty and elegance that almost casts a spell over you. I would not be in a hurry to drink it." Vinous

"The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Panzano Vigna del Sorbo is somewhat more delicate, even subdued, compared to its new brother, the more opulent Terrazze San Leonlino. Aromatically, the Vigna del Sorbo is a little more self-centred, but shows just enough complexity and beauty to believe in its future ageing potential. Even now, tasted so young, the wine's pedigree is evident. It is characterised by its complexity and depth. The tannins are velvety soft, and gentle mineral flavours give it a special note. The Vigna del Sorbo is one of my favourite wines from this region from 2021." Wine Advocate

The Nero d'Avola grapes for the very rare Sultana come from a steeply sloping, bush-shaped vineyard facing north-west. The soil here is white with a limestone matrix, rich in minerals and drainage capacity. The pronounced slope and very poor soil reinforce the pedoclimatic characteristics in which the Nero d'Avola plants find a natural habitat. It is an extreme terroir, a combination of environmental and human factors, that distinguishes the Sultana vineyard from other vineyards. The light reflected by the white soils enhances the characteristics and ultimately the quality of the grapes from the vineyard. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, bright ruby red with a slightly brightening rim. Intense aromas of cherries, raspberries and blackcurrants on the nose, accompanied by herbal flavours, cocoa and dark chocolate. Great juiciness and flow on the palate, good balance between freshness and tannins, ending with cherry fruit in the finish." Falstaff

"Deep purple in colour and significantly darker than the Vigna Guarnaschelli of the same vintage. Concentrated nose of sour cherry and raspberry with chalky notes. Juicy, lively, almost tart cherry and raspberry fruit, with a dose of grippy tannins on the finish, suggesting that this wine needs more age. Much less full-bodied than its 15% would suggest. It is currently more approachable than the Vigna Guarnaschelli." Jancis Robinson

"The nose is warm, recalling damp earth and macerated cherries, with some peppery spice. It's bold and vibrant in the mouth, with fresh and dried dark cherries and berries alongside a balsamic note, lifted floral hints, juicy acidity and fine, woody structure. The finish is persistent and fresh – with a bit of warmth – and there's no sign of jamminess despite its richness and heft." Decanter

"The Vigna Sultana 2021 is smoky in the glass, with a burst of grilled herbs, ash stones and spices giving way to black raspberry and sour citrus fruit. It's soft, supple and soothingly round with tart wild berries and savoury minerals for balance. A core of lively acidity keeps things tidy. The 2021 has a long finish and retains a lovely freshness. It leaves grippy tannins and a savoury feel under a hint of sweet violets and lavender on the finish." Vinous

"Spectacular aromas of hibiscus, lemon blossom, raspberry and red liquorice. Lots of crushed red berries. Medium body with fine, flattering tannins. Bright acidity on the finish. A triumph." James Suckling

2019 was a strong year in Montalcino and this vintage shows balance and proud character. Opens with bright cherry fruit, menthol, balsamic herbs, minerals and soft earthy tones. On the palate, mint and sage form the backdrop to bright cherry with a hint of sweet spice. It's feminine and remarkably pretty, showing red fruits with savoury minerals and inner flowers that accumulate towards the finish. The tannins are round and nuanced, classically dry but in no way fatiguing or austere. This symmetry and great length are simply fascinating. SUPERIORE.DE

"Founded by the Mazzocchi family in the 1980s, who restructured the estate and planted 3 hectares of vineyards. Since 2017, the winery has been owned by the brothers Riccardo and Renzo Cotarella, who work as Oenologist. The 2019 shows its wonderfully fragrant side. In addition to raspberries and undergrowth, there are nuances of strawberry trees that are reminiscent of the vegetation of this high-altitude location. The core consists of unadulterated red fruit. Deliciously tart redcurrants and cranberries are framed by strong, youthful tannins. I love the bite and tangy acidity in this wine." Decanter

"Lots of dark fruits with dried lavender, followed by allspice and a hint of citrus. Medium body with round and chewy tannins. Healthy and muscular." James Suckling

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino wafts from the glass with an airy, minty freshness, while dusty dried flowers, strawberries and pine shavings join in. The Brunello di Montalcino presents itself with soft textures and cool mineral notes that complement its seductively ripe red berry fruit. It retains a fabulous energy throughout. Despite its classic tannic profile and lingering tart wild berry concentration, it leaves your mouth watering. The 2019 from Le Macioche has a wonderful combination of power and purity. This winery has raised the bar with every vintage." Vinous

"This Brunello combines vivid cherry, strawberry and chocolate aromas and flavors with savory notes of eucalyptus, spice, mineral and tobacco. Solidly structured yet balanced, with fine-grained tannins shoring up the lengthy finish." Wine Spectator

Bright, elegant ruby colour with a delicately brightening rim. Dense and opulent on the nose with aromas of plum liqueur, ripe red cherry, milk chocolate, tobacco, cedar wood and a hint of cinnamon. The palate is like velvet and silk, finishing with noble, sweet tannins, a fine salty vein and great length. Quite astonishing splendour and yet never fat or saturating. SUPERIORE.DE

Andrea Cortonesi's Brunello di Montalcino 2019 shows its best side right from the start. It combines richness, maturity and finesse to create a model of total balance. At first glance, it is dark, earthy and herbal, but with time in the glass, a massive wave of black cherries, raspberries, sage and a grounding note of undergrowth emerges. In the mouth, it coats everything it touches with a silky, cool texture that gives way to ripe red and black fruits complemented by spiced citrus, while nuances of lavender and tobacco develop. While the wine feels round and supple, fine-grained tannins slowly creep in, reminding you how young it really is. A hint of baker's chocolate, liquorice and a touch of tart blackberry resonate on the long final... SUPERIORE.DE

"Multifaceted bouquet with aromas of dark berries, leather and chocolate; the attack is full-bodied, the tannins perfectly integrated, develops full of esprit towards an extremely fruity final." Vinum

"Ripe ruby red with a brick-coloured rim. Fairly developed, ripe and brooding cherry fruit nose with hints of tobacco. The palate is much more backward but well put together, with plenty of chewy tannins that don't overpower the fruit. It's an old-school wine, and I'd wait another two years before approaching it. Very long and captivating." Jancis Robinson

"It opens with aromas reminiscent of cedar and pine forest, undergrowth and leather. The palate is full and powerful, but more square than round. A compact core of dark cherry is surrounded by chewy, generous tannins. A hint of dryness from the wood comes through. Still, this wine feels very real, and the underlying acidity provides a brightening effect." Decanter

"Perfumed and attractive with flavours of black cherries and berries, as well as lavender and rosemary flowers. Medium-bodied with firm tannins and a juicy finish. Needs to age in the bottle to mellow." James Suckling

"Dense and muscular, this red delivers a broad swath of cherry, plum and floral flavors, supplemented by iron, eucalyptus and sanguine notes. Tightens up on the finish, leaving a compact impression, yet this is persistent overall." Wine Spectator

"The Uccelliera 2019 Brunello di Montalcino offers ripe fruit, a hint of cooked blackberries and pomegranate juice. Together with oak spice and dried bay leaf, there is a hint of creaminess in the centre of the palate, reminiscent of cheese rind or matured chèvre with a crust of black pepper and thyme. This note fades, however, and the wine returns to dried cherry with a medicinal or herbal flavour. There is a lot going on. The wine needs more time in the bottle to work through the fine, chalky tannins. It's already elegant now, but it will improve." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is a profound and intense wine that shoots from the glass with a wave of autumnal spices, crushed cherries, cedar shavings and soaked plums underpinned by pine notes. This wine is highly structured, elegant and refined, with a dense wave of ripe forest fruits accompanied by vibrant acidity underscored by orange and balsamic herbs. It finishes grippy and lingering with a black hole of tension and a sweet and sour sensation that lingers on and on as crisp tannins reverberate within. The 2019 is youthfully backward today, but its balance is undeniable, especially as it has opened up over twenty-four hours. It is an absolute pleasure to taste this wine. Bury the 2019 deep in your cellar." Vinous

2020 is the first organic Oreno vintage. Deep dark ruby violet. On the nose, cassis, blackcurrant and a powerful herbal spice with a good dose of pipe tobacco, tar and crushed boulders. On the palate, dark berries, chocolate and a cornucopia of herbs define the full body. This juicy wine monument has precisely integrated tannins, an enormous silkiness and a seemingly endless finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Oreno is the top wine of the Tenuta Sette Ponti of the Moretti Cuseri family. The estate is located near Arezzo. The Oreno 2020 consists of 50 % Merlot, 40 % Cabernet Sauvignon and 10 % Petit Verdot. It is matured for 18 months in French oak barriques. Dense and clear, as well as with beautiful race, the Oreno presents itself somewhat finer than the Orma from the sister estate from the Maremma. Clearly more fresh and with more acid kick, the Oreno shines with a fleshy presence and great sweetness. The tannins are somewhat rounder, with good, creamy richness and solid length. In the finish, it seems a little slippery." Weinwisser

"Bright ruby red. The nose smells softly of blackberries, ripe forest fruits, some liquorice and mint, plus fine sealing wax in the reverberation. On the palate radiant, clear, tightly woven tannin, plus present fruit, very juicy on the back end, seems balanced and profound, long finish." Falstaff

"Beautiful detail on the nose, a sweet floral scent with hints of dried herbs, coffee and mint. Structured and fleshy, this wine has weight and power from the start, focusing more on the tannins and concentration of the crisp fruit than the obvious vibrancy at this stage. A serious, contemplative wine that has a lot going for it. I love the intensity of this wine, it is confident and has a clear direction and energy. I also like the salty, smoked stone flavour at the end, which adds nuance and a sense of place. Detailed and expressive, great winemaking and there's a lot to discover." Decanter

"The Tenuta Sette Ponti 2020 Oreno from a warm vintage is very rich and full-bodied and definitely softer compared to the previous 2019 vintage. This wine shows lots of savoury fruit and velvety concentration with blackberry jam and baked cherry. The Oreno gives you a very generous expression of Tuscany to enjoy over the short or medium term." Wine Advocate

"The Oreno 2020 is a dark, brooding beauty. Black cherry, plum, tobacco, spices, menthol, liquorice and dried herbs race across the palate. Deep, fleshy and very expressive, the 2020 Oreno has a lot to offer. It should drink well with minimal cellaring, but also has enough substance to drink well for many years to come." Vinous

"This wine is lush, dense and vibrant, with aromas of black cherries, blackberries and blackcurrants accompanied by mineral, cedary and spicy elements. It firms up on the finish, with fruity, mineral and spicy accents and a nice length." Wine Spectator

"Wow. Wonderful nose of dark cherries, chocolate and spices; deep texture, the tannins fine-grained, cushioned by the acidity, of great length with a multi-faceted finish that makes you want to take another sip. Excellent." Vinum

"A red wine with a layered, velvety texture, showing blackberry and black olive character, plus some iodine and graphite. Full-bodied and rich with lots of fruit and chewy tannins." James Suckling