0.75 liter

When you hear the story of the effort that went into the Colonia vineyard, you have to wonder if the fine people of Fèlsina are absolutely crazy. It took them two years to remove the imposing rock that had forced previous generations of the Poggiali family to practically abandon this noble location. But it is thanks to the ambitious Giovanni Poggiali that this spectacular vineyard (Vigneto Colonia) has become what it is today. It has reddish-brown soils, is rich in magnesium and iron and is therefore very different from all other Fèlsina vineyards.

Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colonia is a wine of enormous beauty and depth. Dark ruby in the glass, it smells expressively mineral and pure, with aromas of dark cherry and blackcurrant. Mineral and graphite flavours and the simply terrific focus on the Sangiovese grape make it an incomparable masterpiece. On the palate, it is extremely balanced and elegant with perfectly integrated wood - it is immediately clear that this is another top wine from the estate that is more than a match for Fontalloro. Those who are able to taste it will be lucky, as there are only 3,000 bottles per vintage. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, radiant ruby red colour. Open and warm on the nose, of ripe heart cherries, precious wood, fine earthy tones, plus graphite and bacon on the finish, very complex. Initially balanced on the palate with polished tannins and creamy fruit, comes across in many layers, long finish, on fine spices, still needs some time." Falstaff

"Charming bouquet with aromas of red forest fruits, violets and truffles; full-bodied with robust but well-integrated tannins, balanced with acidity, harmonious, long and multi-faceted. Convinces with its traditional, elegant style." Vinum

"Colonia is located almost 420 metres above sea level on the top of the Rancia hill, where the 2.6-hectare vineyard is surrounded by forest. Made from a selection of the healthiest grapes and aged in new French oak barriques, the 2020 is generous in its aromas of sun-kissed plums, petrichor, tobacco and espresso beans. Hints of cedar permeate the palate, where the fruit is altogether restrained. This wine is elegantly weighted with dusty earth, a gravelly crunch and citrus acidity. Grainy wood tannins on the finish." Decanter

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colonia 2020 combines power, energy and structure. Dark red cherry fruit, blood orange, spices and sweet French oak in abundance. Colonia usually needs a few years to develop. I suspect that this will also be the case here. As always, the Colonia stands out in the Fèlsina range for its greater concentration and strong oak character." Vinous

"Cherries and orange blossom on the nose with some minerality. Medium body with fine tannins and floral undertones to hints of new wood and beautiful fruit. Needs time to develop." James Suckling

"This wine shows a very interesting character with botanical notes of dried rosemary and Mediterranean lavender. The 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colonia also shows plenty of dark fruit, clay, slate, pencil shavings, spice and a hint of Italian coffee. This medium-bodied wine is lively and fresh and finishes with melting tannins. This vintage is more approachable overall compared to recent vintages." Wine Advocate

Volpaia's flagship Il Puro shows beautiful fruit, elegance and a certain austerity that are indicative of this balanced vintage. The texture of the wine is dense and voluptuous and there is dark, plummy fruit, leather and cloves that meld into a wonderful drinking flow. Oak spice, tar and campfire ash on the long and rich finish. Only 2,000 bottles exist of this profound archetype of a Sangiovese that could hardly be better. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with a delicately brightening rim. Opens finely fragrant in the nose, of juicy cherries, wild berries, underlaid with dried rose hips, delicately of dried tomatoes, multilayered and inviting. On the palate it is powerful and clear, opens up juicy and salty, with a great tension; long finish with a noble finish." Falstaff

"Made from a single vineyard that’s planted with 25 native Sangiovese clones rescued from former sharecroppers’ plots, this has an appealing bouquet that mixes whiffs of herbs with earthy blackberries and roasted coffee. Ripe acidity and fine-grained tannins support a palate loaded with mellow dark cherries, while nuances of toasted oak and undergrowth complicate the ample and poised finish." Decanter

"The Volpaia 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Casanova Il Puro is an organic wine in a pretty bottle with a red wax seal. The fruit is soft and round in this vintage with plenty of cherry, dried raspberry, spice and sweet leather. It boasts a full-bodied texture but ends on a silky note." Wine Advocate

"Intense notes of cedar, cocoa, violets and tobacco, combined with tangy lemon, wild strawberry and cranberry. Sharp and precise with medium to full body and tight tannins. Intense. From organically grown grapes. Needs a couple of years to integrate." James Suckling

This is a beautiful creation from a vintage that has presented some challenges to winemakers elsewhere in Italy and here in Piedmont. Barbaresco Bernadot with Treiso fruit shows a graceful, mid-weight approach to the 2014 vintage with red and purple fruits that are crisp and fresh. The bouquet is a sounding board for cassis, sour cherry, camphor ash, crushed stone and powdered licorice. Bernadot shows a firm texture and a lingering, silky intensity, while being refreshingly natural and weightless; an utterly captivating wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"A mix of earth, underbrush, leather, juniper and tar aromas continue on the palate in this savory Nebbiolo. Firmly structured, finishing long and dry, with a tobacco note." Wine Spectator

"Elegant, bright ruby red. Inviting, equally elegant, of roses and pomegranate, a hint of rubber. Pleasant palate with juicy tannin, salty and stimulating, wraps the mouth in a velvety dress and finishes long with fresh cherry fruit." Falstaff

"The 2014 Barbaresco Bernadot is a more structured and opulent wine with thick lines and a dark core of black fruit. Thanks to vineyards in Treiso, the wine delivers extra power and density with deep layers of blackberry, spice and crushed river stone. This Barbaresco boasts a pretty layering effect that peels back to show delicate intensity and finesse." Wine Advocate

"The 2014 Barbaresco Bernardot has shut down since I last tasted it about nine months ago. The breadth that is typical of this Treiso site comes through, but the 2014 is quite reluctant today. Hints of smoke, licorice, underbrush and a host of balsamic notes infuse the resonant finish." Vinous

Black cherry red with a violet rim. On the nose, notes of spices such as ginger, cinnamon, dried coriander and vanilla bean, rounded off with fruit aromas of pomegranate, cherry and floral nuances such as geranium, lavender and rose. Fresh rose sugar and graphite on the palate; plus raspberry, cherry, fresh plum and cranberries. Long in the finish with a fine cassis note. SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful, sparkling ruby violet. Opens with cool spicy notes, some geranium leaf, plus fresh plums. On the palate clear and present fruit, grippy tannin coated by beautiful melting, in the finish full of blackberry and spicy undergrowth." Falstaff

"This wine is, frankly, delicious. The fruit has a brilliant, violet-scented, dark ripeness, but it is infused with a ruby glow. Blueberries and raspberries. Lavender and pepper. The tannins are so fine it feels like they were applied with a sable hair brush, yet they are not delicate - they engrave the fruit with purpose and precision. Delicious freshness in the mouth. Incredibly fragrant on the finish. This wine really floats." Jancis Robinson

"Aromas of cherries and flowers with some orange peel. Also graphite, slate and white pepper. Medium bodied with firm and silky tannins laced with bright acidity. Bright and lively." James Suckling

"The 2018 Tinata is super-expressive right out of the gate. Soaring aromatics meld into a core of dark red/blue fruit, with hints of tobacco, dried herbs, licorice and spice that develop later. A wine of understated depth, the Tinata is impressive in this tasting." Vinous

Every year, Renieri conjures up a lush and fruit-driven Brunello in the glass, bursting with freshness, brightness and balsamic-aromatic intensity. Its grapes come from a small, nine-hectare parcel with chalky clay soils. It offers strong cherry and blackberry aromas with delicate spice, smoke and blue flowers. The wonderfully balanced acidity propels this showpiece wine into a seemingly endless final. SUPERIORE.DE

"This has complex aromas of mulberries, strawberries, red tea, dried flowers, cocoa powder, wild thyme and hazelnuts. So bright and lively with a medium to full body and firm, fine-grained tannins. Poised and fresh, even refreshing, with wild berry fruit lingering on a lengthy finish." James Suckling

Currá is an archaic long-distance runner and presents itself very aristocratic when young with increasing bottle maturity or also good aeration. Then it reveals dark berries and a fine chocolate note in the bouquet. In its style, it is edgy at first, but then at no point denies its greatness and harmony. Tobacco, plums, smoke and tobacco: with every glass, this exceptional wine reveals new facets and a firework of impressions. This is Nebbiolo from 65-year-old vines at the highest level! SUPERIORE.DE

"With defining character and hearty bite, compact and pithy at every stage, fleshy all around with velvety tannins and animating length." Weinwisser

"Mid to deep developing ruby with narrow orange rim. Firm nose of ripe fruit spiked with sweet baking spices. Compact sour-cherry fruit palate with bags of crunchy tannins. Succulent and with tannic bite on the finish. Quite gorgeous." Jancis Robinson

"The 2016 Barbaresco Currà is a dense, explosive wine endowed with huge mid-palate density and potent tannins to match. Wild cherry, tobacco, cinnamon, dried rose petal and spice emerge with a bit of coaxing. The 2016 is a powerful wine." Vinous

"A beefy style, this red buries its cherry, iron and menthol flavors in a matrix of thick tannins. The vivid acidity works in tandem, yet in the end, there's an equilibrium of all the elements, with the fruit reemerging." Wine Spectator

"Showing darker and slightly more saturated fruit, the Sottimano 2016 Barbaresco Currá is a more robust and amply endowed wine compared to the other single-vineyard expressions in this portfolio. Drawing its fruit from the village of Neive, the Currá offers ripe berry and redcurrant with softer tones of spice and tilled earth. The wine's concentration and richness are an absolute pleasure, and you could direct this bottle to a heavier roasted meat dish when the time is right. Fruit is drawn from a 1.5-hectare plot in Neive." Wine Advocate

Solea is a white wine that is unrivalled, and not just in Piedmont. Chardonnay and Nebbiolo (vinified white) - this is an elegant and independent answer to the great white wines of Burgundy from the hand of Luca Roagna. Herbal bouquet with a smoky note, paired with fine citrus, pear and apple flavours. Before you forget to take your nose out of the glass, you should indulge in the palate-filling flavours: Yellow fruit, plus a delicate nutty-almond note and soft, creamy tones from the truly refined use of wood make this great white wine dance and swing on the palate and carry it into a terrificfinish. Impatient drinkers will savour it immediately, while clever connoisseurs will put a few bottles in a safe place for a few years. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2022 Solea is a unique blend of 80% Chardonnay and 20% Nebbiolo. Orchard fruit, white flowers, lemon peel and white pepper are all nicely articulated. Bright and vibrant, with mid-weight structure, Solea is also incredibly distinctive. Drink it over the next few years." Vinous

Deep, dark, sparkling ruby colour with a fine garnet rim. The bouquet is a colourful bouquet of black cherry, elderberry, graphite and a strong cassis note. On the powerful palate, the black fruits again, plus a wonderful balance and freshness with a picture-book tannin that rounds off the perfect impression. Fine energy and harmony. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby colour with a fine garnet rim. Very intense and appealing nose, full of dark cherries, blackberries and fresh rose petals. Polished and with plenty of finely woven tannins, opens up in many layers, may seem a little soft for a Barolo, but has great presence and very good drinking flow." Falstaff

"Aromas of vanilla, resin and toasty oak lead off, followed by reticent flavors of cherry, raspberry, underbrush and iron. This comes together on the finish yet will require a few years to absorb the oak." Wine Spectator

"The Elio Altare 2020 Barolo Arborina makes a bright first impression with lots of cherry fruit, cranberry and tart berry nuances. It offers underripe flavours, which are much appreciated in a hot vintage like this. A hint of minerality adds spiciness in the form of wet stone or petrichor. The Arborina shows the classic Nebbiolo flavours, with good volume, velvety tannins and obvious freshness." Wine Advocate

"The Barolo Arborina 2020 is a bright, concentrated wine that shows all the energy typical of the La Morra vineyard, especially in its driving tannin profile. Dark cherry, spice, leather, menthol and dried flowers come alive in the glass. Floral and spicy notes give it aromatic presence and breadth on the finish. I would give this wine a few years to mature." Vinous

The grapes for the profound Le Vigne come from Baudana in Serralunga d'Alba (for the power), Villero in Castiglione Falletto (for the precision), Vignane in Barolo (for the purity of the flavours) and Merli in Novello (for the fullness of the fruit). It opens wide with aromas of fresh red fruit and a delicate spicy note. Very intense on the palate, remarkably elegant, fine-grained tannins, extremely clear, structured and long. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, intense ruby-garnet colour. Intense nose with notes of plum and wild raspberry, followed by some liquorice and cloves. Salty and juicy on the palate, shows fine cherry fruit at the front, then opens up with grippy tannins, good pressure on the final." Falstaff

"The Barolo Le Vigne 2020 is characterised by its brilliant aromatic intensity and great depth. Crushed rose petals, mint, blood orange, spices, lavender and pomegranate blend together. Le Vigne has slightly more aromatic vibrancy and vigour than the Aleste, but shares its sibling's sense of openness." Vinous

"Black cherry, raspberry and plum are wrapped in a veil of toasted oak in this red wine. Ripe and dense, yet with a sense of elegance, this wine lingers with fine balance and freshness on the finish, which is characterised by iron and eucalyptus." Wine Spectator

"The 2020 Barolo Le Vigne has an open texture with sun-drenched flavours. You get ripe fruit with black cherries, blackcurrants, forest floor and wild mushrooms. With time in the glass, the wine reveals floral definition, grilled tarragon herb and a heavier note of wheat pastry." Wine Advocate

"The flavours of blackberry, spice and tar are enticing and lead to a full but firm body that shows density and depth. The tannins are very well integrated and feel fused with the wine. Slightly bitter orange and mineral character on the finish. Complex and curated." James Suckling

"The wine is a bold expression of dark, macerated cherries, earthy undertones with the nuanced complexity of oolong tea and a medley of spices. The palate is characterised by a dark, smoky character dusted with spice, creating a big and commanding presence in the glass that shows the depth and power of the wine but never goes too far, maintaining an elegant line in the glass." Wine Enthusiast

Grattamacco is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese, the latter grape variety certainly contributing to the fresh style of this wine. However, the overall picture is only complete when you realise that the vineyards used for this blend are among the best in the appellation. The Grattamacco Bolgheri Rosso Superiore is characterised by its typical aromas of leaves and Mediterranean forest, with subtle flavours of kiwi peel, cassis, paprika and chocolate. Velvety, youthful and firm on the attack, less light than the Alberello, but more tightly woven and of great elegance. Its length is astonishing, great potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"Stunning berry aromas, facets of dried flowers, pepper and Mediterranean scrub; polished structure with powdery tannins, the accentuated acidity provides youthfulness in the background, then lots of charm and great length on notes of plums, Mediterranean flora and spices." Vinum

"Bright ruby red colour. Expressive, sweet-fruity bouquet of cassis and blackberry, with notes of ebony, tobacco leaf, cocoa and fumé, complex. Spreads across the palate like a silk scarf, with precise fruit and fine-grained tannins, juicy and with gentle pressure into the long finish." Falstaff

"Medium to dark crimson colour. Very complete and with slightly less obvious tannins than the 2016. Already very approachable and well balanced with a chalky texture on the finish. Really charming with a light inkiness. Long and fresh." Jancis Robinson

"A bold, sweeping wine, the 2021 Grattamacco is pretty impressive. Readers should expect a potent, extroverted red with tons of Bolgheri opulence. There’s plenty of supporting structure too, but at this stage it’s the wine’s intense, ripe profile that carries the day. A blast of blackberry, scorched earth, new leather, licorice and incense saturates the palate on the long, sustained finish." Vinous

"Blueberry, blackcurrant and pomegranate flavours are accentuated by oak spice, graphite and rosemary notes in this fresh, long red wine. Taut and lively, with excellent balance and a fine-grained tannin band on the finish." Wine Spectator

"The result in 2021 is magnificent, with the scent of blackberries and a dense, savoury palate with black and blue berries, silky tannins and sous bois complexity. The wonderful juicy softness of the fruit is enlivened by minty-fresh acidity, a savoury kick and a tasty, almost ferrous finish." Decanter

"This is a different level, with blackcurrants, blueberries and Mediterranean herbs such as rosemary and sage. Also tobacco and coffee beans. Medium-bodied with fine tannins and a lingering finish. Sophisticated and thought-provoking. A new level of quality with this wine." James Suckling

Altesinos Riserva is a taut and firm wine with perfectly nuanced fruit and an impressive aristocracy that always characterises the great elegance of Altesinos wines. In addition to its noble restraint, this Riserva is extremely refined, revealing a cosy ripeness with precise cherry aromas, spices, leather and traces of liquorice. Already exceptionally good today, it will certainly be even better in a few years' time! SUPERIORE.DE

"This red starts out round, turning more precise and taut as it builds to the finish. Shows cherry, wild herb, soy and loam flavors that ply the supple texture, before the tannins exert their influence and the finish tightens up (a good sign for the future)." Wine Spectator

"The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva shows dark fruit, dried cherry and baked plum. The wine is slightly subdued aromatically speaking compared to the new Brunello annata release, and I chalk that up to the very hot and dry conditions of the relentless 2017 summer. Cinnamon, cumin and crushed clove appear in a second wave and underline this Riserva's more elaborate aging regime. The finish is layered and rich with full-bodied Sangiovese intensity." Wine Advocate

"Complex and fragrant nose of neroli, currants, sour cherries, sandalwood, cassis and wild herbs. Roasted walnuts, too. Full-bodied with firm, fine-grained tannins and vibrant acidity. Full of energy and power." James Suckling

Pajana - the most modern wine in the entire Clerico range - presents itself as a closed, compact wine with great potential. Rich ruby colour with a slight garnet rim. Compact nose, with rich notes of blackberry, dark cherries and a hint of cinchona bark in the background. Literally explodes on the palate, lots of ripe, present fruit, then opens up with lots of fine-meshed tannins, savoury depth, full-bodied pressure. SUPERIORE.DE

"Clear, firm and deep, polished, red and black berry flavours with leather, herbs and dried rose petals, pomegranate, tobacco and a hint of tomato essence. Ripe, polished, very juicy, youthful fruit, fine acid bite and plenty of ripe, still youthful but crumbly tannin, dried rose petals and a little herbs on the palate, peppery, ethereal notes, also a hint of juniper, persistent, deep and multi-layered, still completely undeveloped, salt in the background, a hint of cocoa, very good to long, firm finish with noble juice and fine spice." Wein-Plus

"Sparkling, light ruby red colour. Elegant bouquet of small wild berries, with notes of rose petals, precious wood and a hint of mocha on the finish. Powerful on the palate, very juicy, with clear fruit and silky tannins and a long finish." Falstaff

"Powerful, muscular nose. Solid on the palate with plenty of mass and grip. A serious, age-worthy wine. The finish is very dry, but convincing. Long. Muscular. Almost salty." Jancis Robinson

"The bouquet is quiet but full of potential, offering hints of wild mint, thyme and tart red berries under a veil of sweet and savoury spices. The palate reveals a refined structure with elegant tannins that accentuate the dried cherry flavours, while a savoury undertone hints at the complexity that will only unfold after years in the cellar." Wine Enthusiast

"Fragrant, harmonious and charming, this red touches all the bases. Cherry, strawberry, floral, menthol, iron and sweet spice flavors mingle with the lively acidity and fine-grained tannins. This firms up on the finish but remains elegant and long." Wine Spectator

"Pale ruby red colour and intense floral bouquet of fresh violets, roses, bergamot-like citrus fruits, pomegranate and sweet spices. The attack is soft, with velvety tannins on the mid-palate, a full body and crisp, melting acidity. The finish is a little austere with notes of cherry stones. Lots of good substance here. Enjoyable now, but will improve with ageing." James Suckling

"The Domenico Clerico 2020 Barolo Ginestra Pajana shows a great balance between dark fruit and integrated spice, which comes from the increasingly gentle ageing in oak. The results are impeccably smooth, and the fruit remains bright, very lively. It finishes dry with smoky tar and liquorice. However, the Pajana has a great fruit profile that persists throughout. The combination of fruit and tannins overwhelms the palate, making this a significant Barolo worthy of its age." Wine Advocate

"The unique style of the Clerico house in a "jewel" from Monforte d'Alba. On the nose, notes of red plums, with sensations of undergrowth and a hint of Valdostan mint, with nuances of nutmeg on the finish. The mouthfeel has salty tannins and a return of red fruits and undergrowth." Luca Gardini

Here comes the third vintage of Stefano Frascolla's heart project from the Alta Maremma. Just 2,500 bottles of this 100% Syrah are bottled, aged (on the skins) for half a year in amphorae, then filtered and matured in small French oak barrels.

Radiant ruby red. On the nose, a seductive mix of cherry with hints of chocolate, herbs and a subtle liquorice note. On the palate, cherry again, complemented by a kaleidoscope of chocolate, coffee and a subtle juniper note. A fabulous acid structure and fine-grained tannins guide the precisely composed wine into a furious final. Keir complements the winery's high-class portfolio in a very independent and emphatic way. Great! SUPERIORE.DE

"Shiny ruby-violet with a little light rim. Opens with fine spicy notes, pepper and ivy, then some cherry, blood orange. On the palate lots of grippy, hearty tannin, dark berries, some tobacco, a little brittle on the final." Falstaff

"The green-tobacco and pepper character is very intense with blackberry and black-cherry undertones. Full-bodied and layered with soft tannins that are creamy and very pretty. A full yet soft-textured palate. Succulent and delicious." James Suckling

"A pure expression of Syrah that spends six months in amphorae, the Tua Rita 2019 Keir Rosso is a gregarious and super fun wine that is a joy to drink and a great conversation starter thanks to the crafty approach used in its winemaking. Long skin maceration times give the wine extra intensity. The tightly pored surface of the clay amphorae (that are fired in kilns at very hot temperatures and long durations) means that the wine gets less oxygen during winemaking. This contributes to its delicate and elegant flavors and ultimately to the promising longevity of this vintage. Keir is not as full-bodied as other Tuscan Syrahs, but the wine shows terrific purity and focus instead. The bouquet offers punchy black fruit, plum, tea leaf and savory tobacco." Wine Advocate

"2019 is for Stefano Frascolla an exceptional vintage - one of the best vintages of the last two decades. Bright magenta in colour with an exuberant nose of vivid sweet blackcurrant, cream and spice, this has youthful raspberry, white pepper and flint flavours mixed with concentrated yet vibrant fruit. Impossible to resist, with a lovely weightless texture and harmony, it dances seamlessly across the palate and disappears with incredible lightness but lingering flavours. Syrah meets Burgundy!" Decanter

Deep dark and impenetrable ruby red. Complex bouquet with endless layers of dark fruit and aromas, complex on the palate, tightly woven and with a long, silky mouthfeel. Very focused and juicy Cabernet Franc in Riserva quality from one of the most profound and beautiful vintages of the new millennium so far. SUPERIORE.DE

"This is Fattoria Kappa's top Cabernet Franc wine. The Essenza 2016 is packaged in a heavy glass bottle with a black wax capsule. It shows dark fruits, spices and rich saturation with a particularly full-bodied style. With this powerful bottle, you should fire up the grill to grill steak or pork chops." Wine Advocate

"Sparkling ruby with a slightly lightening rim. Dense and memorable nose, full of dark currant and pickled cherries, lots of tobacco in the background. Juicy on the palate, well-defined fruit, grippy tannin in many layers, firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

Bright golden colour, full bouquet with explosive aromas of quince, honey, wax, granite, blood orange, vanilla, white chocolate and straw. Initial notes of roasted cashew and almond on the palate, followed by fruit such as white peach, pear and citrus. Exciting and very multi-faceted. SUPERIORE.DE

"Extremely balanced nose of exotic fruits, flanked by bold citrus notes, Mediterranean flowers and spices; the attack is supple, the acidity perfectly integrated and yet a source of finesse and freshness, finishes long and extremely multi-faceted on fruit and balsamic flavours. Very successful." Vinum

"This is a little more subtle than past bottlings and shows freshness and brightness with some crushed stones, dried apples, lemon blossoms and honeysuckle. Medium-bodied with fresh, tangy undertones of sliced pears and honey. Crisp finish. Some stones and just a hint of phenolics at the end. Complex. Best yet?" James Suckling

Only around 2,000 bottles of this noble Riserva are filled each year. With a rich aroma of black berries, balsamic nuances and spices as well as an expansive flavour - full and clear - this great wine perfectly combines finesse, elegance and softness. SUPERIORE.DE

"In the nose with wild herbal aromas and earthy-mineral notes, undergrowth, walnuts, ash and warm earth. Full-bodied in the mouth with a well-defined body, beautiful substance with savoury nuances, quite long with a salty final." Weinwisser

"This is a wild and earthy red wine with notes of watermelon, walnuts, ash, minerals and earth. It has a medium body and nice substance. Long, savoury and spicy." James Suckling

"The 2019 Etna Rosso Zottorinoto is dark, floral and earthy in the glass, with a mix of grilled herbs, crushed rocks and blackberries making up its bouquet. It shows silky textures and masses of mineral red and black fruits. Hints of cocoa emerge towards the end. It finishes with a layer of fine tannins and a hint of primary concentration, balanced by a touch of residual acidity that maintains a fantastic freshness despite its youthful structure." Vinous

"Slightly creamy and with a silky texture, it combines balsamic herbal touches with red and blue berries, ending on a twist of orange peel. Undergoing extended ageing this Riserva from contrada Zottorinoto in Castiglione di Sicilia is bigger and also has higher perceived acidity compared to Feudo di Mezzo. Sapid, saline and intense, it's a beautifully crafted wine." Decanter

Franchetti Rosso is Passopisciaro's flagship wine and a stunningly perfect wine. The grapes come from 1000-metre-high northern Etna vineyard sites, where the soils are ash and pumice. Franchetti is a ripe, exotic wine that envelops the palate with dark fruit. Refined tannins support the fruit, while an intense inner sweetness adds elegance and finesse. A thoroughly outstanding drop. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Franchetti is a unique wine that perfectly interprets the high volcanic soils. Power, structure and then such a straightforward concentration of aromas: deep scent of black cherries, plums, orange zest and mint. Then comes a distinct minerality. Dark chocolate and blueberry show on the palate, spiced with fresh tarragon. A great wine to know from Etna." Vinum

"The Vini Franchetti 2020 Franchetti is very spicy and savory with inky black fruit aromas. You feel the 15.5% alcohol content over the wine's thick, full-bodied texture." Wine Advocate

"Dark ruby red with a softly lightening rim. In the nose of ripe heart cherries, paired with cold smoke, mulberries as well as freshly roasted coffee and a hint of Ras-el-Hanout. Extremely polished and compact on the palate, opens to juicy tannin, punchy and with plenty of finesse, keeps coming back, dense, long and balanced." Falstaff

"The 2020 Franchetti is beautiful, jumping out of the glass, spicy and intense, showing off its Cesanese aromas with a mix of blackberries, lavender, sage, white pepper and smoke that make it impossible to ignore. This wine is very structured, almost creamy yet tangy, with medium body and a salty core of minerality that balances the masses of ripe dark fruit and sweet herbal notes. The length is amazing, as is the harmony within. It finishes structured yet supple, with violet flowers and nuances of plum jam that linger. This wine is already very appealing, elegance personified, but the best is surely yet to come." Vinous

Just 2,500 bottles of this 100% Syrah are bottled, aged (on the skins) for six months in amphorae, then filtered and matured in small French oak barrels.

Brilliant ruby red colour. On the nose, a seductive blend of cherry with hints of chocolate, herbs and a fine liquorice note. Cherry again on the palate, complemented by a kaleidoscope of chocolate, coffee and a subtle juniper note. A fabulous acidity structure and fine-grained tannins guide this precisely composed wine to a furious final. Keir complements the winery's high-class portfolio in a very independent and emphatic way. Magnificent! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, powerful ruby colour with a violet rim. Smells of wild strawberries and candy floss, some blackberry, followed by spicy notes of rosemary and thyme. Plump and juicy fruit on the palate, very precise and clear, thrilling on the finish with very well-placed tannins and firm pressure." Falstaff

"A juicy and chocolatey red with cloves, black pepper and hints of terra cotta. It’s medium-bodied with round and crunchy fruit and a light hazelnut and clove finish. Just a hint of bitter chocolate." James Suckling

Ester Canale Nebbiolo Langhe comes from younger vines of Davide Rosso in Vigna Rionda. Soft, sensual and beautifully perfumed, it is a real charmer. The wine glides smoothly over the palate and is driven by concentrated cherries, blackberries, blood oranges, smoky tar and liquorice. Firm, dense tannins form the backbone of this masterpiece, the dark berry fruit builds slowly and steadily and finally leads to an almost infinitely long finish. The Langhe Nebbiolo is undoubtedly the hidden jewel in the portfolio of this small, exceptional winery. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, shiny ruby red colour. The nose is fragrant with dried flower petals, oranges and candied wild strawberries, very refined and elegant. Enormously juicy and precise on the palate, with creamy fruit that stretches across the tongue, vibrant, savoury, long and very elegant." Falstaff

"The 2021 Langhe Nebbiolo Ester Canale Rosso is gorgeous. Dark and pliant, the 2021 has an air of mystery that is palpable. It’s a wine with myriad shades of dimension that emerge over time. Black cherry, plum, incense, leather and lavender open with some coaxing. This young-vine Langhe Nebbiolo from Vigna Rionda is not ready yet to be Barolo, but it is far above most wines in its peer group." Vinous

"A Nebbiolo that shines for its concentration, it has a bark-like, fleshy character with dark violet and blood orange complexity. The attack is super-rich, tannins vibrant and grainy then polished on the finish, with lively integrated acidity and a sweet note of smoky woodland. One of the best and, not by chance, one of the most expensive Langhe Nebbiolo bottlings. ‘It's a sort of Barolo bottled young,’ says winemaker Andrea Delpiano." Decanter

Vecchie Vigne by Siro Pacenti is still one of the most modern wines to emerge from this sun-drenched appellation in southern Tuscany. The grapes come from old vines that are between 38 and 53 years old. You can immediately taste the great 2019 vintage and the richness and suppleness of its dark fruit and lush blackberry flavours. Vecchie Vigne offers that certain hint of exotic spices, savoury tobacco and even notes of talcum powder or buttered popcorn, which come from the oak - it is aged for 24 months in French barriques - which does it a world of good and makes it unmistakable. All the attributes of this exceptional wine are clearly pronounced and unmistakably convincing, all of which contribute to a creamy and infinitely long-lasting mouthfeel and make this wine one of the best of the vintage. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich ruby colour with a fine garnet rim. Initially shows slightly earthy notes on the nose, some rust, then lots of black cherry and blackberry, fine spice. Full-bodied and firm on the palate, shows plenty of grippy tannins, juicy berry fruit, then slightly drying on the final, still needs ageing." Falstaff

"The Vecchie Vigne combines fruit from Siro Pacenti's 35+ year old vineyards in the northern and southern quadrants of Montalcino and shows even greater intensity and power than the Pelagrilli bottling, but also more nuance and sophistication. With its deep ruby red colour, it offers an intriguing blend of grilled herbs, toasted cedar, incense and ferrous minerals. On the palate, it is highly concentrated and full in its purity of black fruits accompanied by sweet herbs and spices. The powerful, well-padded tannins are polished and slowly dissolve into a tactile powderiness on the long liquorice finish." Decanter

"Vines over 35 years old, a Brunello of pleasant finesse. Notes of cranberry, rhubarb and peony on the nose, with hints of cinnamon. The palate reveals salty tannins, recurring notes of small fruits and undergrowth. Finishes with a hint of sweet spices." Luca Gardini

"The Brunello di Montalcino Vecchie Vigne 2019 is intense. It smells of rosemary and spiced blood oranges before developing into dried black cherries and a hint of incense. On the palate, it flows with a velvety texture complicated by tactile mineral tones and savoury acidity, while cool red and black fruits slowly saturate. A web of fine-grained tannins envelops the senses as the 2019 finishes dramatically long and colourful, leaving traces of cedar spice and inner rose that linger on and on. This is a formidable VecchieVigne that will pay dividends in the cellar." Vinous

"A darker expression of the vintage, showing aromas and flavours of black cherries, blackberries, iron, tar and tobacco. Dense and muscular, but with lively acidity that keeps it long and concentrated. The tannins are resonant and the lasting impression is one of sweet fruit." Wine Spectator

"The Siro Pacenti 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Vecchie Vigne has a dark appearance and is made from old vines. It has notes of baked blackberry pie crust, raspberry jam, barbecue smoke, cigar box and every other fairly extreme aromatic description you can apply to a heavily barrel-aged red wine. It is certainly exaggerated, especially at this young age, but experience teaches us that Siro Pacenti's wines need time, a lot of time, before all the elements mesh. The alcohol content is 15% and the tannins are a real hammer." Wine Advocate

"Black cherries, lavender, black mushrooms, pencil and violets on the nose. Full-bodied with a powerful and polished tannin structure that lasts until the end. Pure, silky texture. Fascinating aftertaste of ripe fruit that is nevertheless fresh and taut. Also some orange peel. Wonderful on the finish. So well elaborated and pointed. This wine still needs three to five years to develop, but it is already very impressive." James Suckling

The great Barolo Ciabot Mentin Ginestra from the historic Clerico vineyard. Bright garnet red colour. Open-hearted bouquet of ripe fruit and spices, the elegant tannins are accompanied by a pleasant freshness in the complex flavour, deep and long on the finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Fairly firm, concentrated, somewhat ethereal aroma of ripe red and black berries with restrained cherry notes, Provençal herbs and tomato essence. Ripe, dense and warm, fairly juicy fruit with present but crumbly, very ripe tannins, some cocoa and a hint of coffee, persistent and deep on the palate, still rather undeveloped, but already with a certain charm, some bite, fine smoky and ethereal-herbal spice, also some pepper, salty-mineral tones in the background, a little black olive and again tomato essence, fine tobacco flavours, very good, firm, juicy finish with complex spice." Wein-Plus

"Bright ruby red with a brightening rim. svelte on the nose with aromas of crisp cherry and raspberry, plus hints of hibiscus and liquorice. On the palate with a fine alternation of fresh acidity, precise fruit and tightly woven tannins, harmonious and persistent." Falstaff

"Rich fruit and dried fruit flavours. Really captivating." Jancis Robinson

"Initially restrained, the nose gradually reveals ripe berries ready for preserving, accompanied by sweet spices, savoury herbs and fresh rose petals. On the palate, this wine is elegant and refined, with exceptionally pure tannins that are well integrated but unobtrusive. The flavours are pure and the warmth of the vintage comes through fully on the palate, which is rich and forward. Well structured and polished, this is a top class wine." Wine Enthusiast

"Bright ruby red colour that suggests youth. The nose is very floral with notes of fresh roses, violets, pomegranate, cherries and gentle spices. The medium-bodied palate is soft with velvety tannins, refreshing acidity, some vibrancy and a polished finish. A really enjoyable wine." James Suckling

"Cru Ginestra, a refined and multi-layered Barolo. On the nose, notes of cherry, a hint of wild mint, star anise and rosemary, with a hint of clementine peel. Salty tannins, mentholated hints and notes of medicinal plants on the palate. Finish with citrus fruit flavours." Luca Gardini

"The Domenico Clerico 2020 Barolo Ginestra Ciabot Mentin shows a really great balance in terms of the integration of oak. For the first time, the winery has decided to use large oak barrels (the barrique has been completely removed), and the results are exceptional. There are lots of dark fruits, such as cranberries and redcurrants, which characterise the wine throughout. There is also black tea and spice, but these tones work with the fruit rather than against it. The wine finishes supple, with polished tannins, lovely acidity and a much brighter and lighter overall personality." Wine Advocate

"Year after year, the Ciabot Mentin shines with its remarkable consistency. This 2020 begins somewhat closed, with restrained blood orange, but then reveals an exquisite blend of red cherry, violet, leafy lightness and liquorice depth. Graphite and a hint of yellow fruit dominate the palate, carried by a lively acidity and velvety, elegant and very polished tannins." Decanter

"This red is pure and elegant, with rose, cherry, raspberry and mineral aromas and flavors fused to a firm, vibrant structure. Shows fine intensity and verve, with a long, detailed aftertaste of fruit, mineral and spice notes." Wine Spectator

A beautiful, very sensual, feminine wine that is only vinified in the best vintages. Exquisitely flavoured with dark fruit, elegant and fine on the palate with plenty of fruit and length. It was named after the nickname once given to the young wild Clerico by his father: Aeroplan Servaj - wild aeroplane. And the labelling is just as wild and creative - there are six different labels! SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium red; caramel-fruity, inviting; juicy attack, fullness, round, dark fruity, lots of good tannin, pleasing." Merum

"Medium ruby red colour. Complex, spicy nose of red fruits and pure red fruits with enveloping tannins on the palate. Great balance and length. Firmly structured, yet elegant and with a certain suppleness." Jancis Robinson

"Aeroplanservaj is a kind of futuristic label for the first Barolo produced in Serralunga by Domenico Clerico. Oscar Arrivabene, the winery's winemaker, explained that 10% of the oak barrels are used for ageing in barriques; this is more of a logistical decision than a stylistic one, as the plot in Serralunga is so small. The wine has hints of smoky woods, dried cherries, cinnamon spice and a heady violet note that permeates the structure. The attack is austere, not rustic, just wild and youthful. The tannins need to be tamed at the moment, but it's a Serralunga full of detail and I'd wager it will age well." Decanter

"Firm, complex and deep, slightly iodised, also fleshy and a little herbal aroma of ripe black rather than red berries with a hint of soy sauce, tomato essence and floral nuances. Firm, tart and juicy fruit, surprisingly fresh despite all its power, a certain acid bite and fine, youthful tannins, slightly smoky notes on the palate, a little cocoa and hints of coffee, peppery notes in the background, a little herbs and salt, good depth, still barely developed, tobacco traces, very good, firm, juicy and tart-spicy, again slightly smoky finish with peppery, juniper-like tones and noticeable alcoholic strength." Wein-plus

"Flavours of cherries and plums with some fresh roses follow through to a medium body, with fine tannins and a fresh and clean finish. Bright and lively. Taut. Firm and structured." James Suckling

"This red wine is rich but densely woven, providing a backdrop for the flavours of cherries, wild strawberries, earth, minerals and wild herbs. Balanced, even graceful, with fine intensity and a lingering aftertaste of fruit, minerals and herbs." Wine Spectator

"Brilliant ruby red with garnet-coloured rim. On the nose, initially fine earthy tones, some cold smoke, after some time Assam tea, ripe raspberries, cranberries, precious wood. Polished, creamy fruit on the palate, extremely energetic and with vibrant acidity, the tannins are powerful and firm, currently still a little young and wide-meshed, will mature well." Falstaff

"The first Serralunga from the historic Monforte winery, bottled for the first time in 2006, comes from a beautiful family story. Notes of cranberry on the nose, nuances of peony, undergrowth and eucalyptus." Luca Gardini

"With its colourful fantasy label, the Domenico Clerico 2019 Barolo Aeroplan Servaj shows dark fruit and a velvety texture with rusty nails and pencil shavings. This vintage is more concentrated and structured overall, and the result is both rich and very beautiful. The fruit comes from vines planted in 1994. The wine is aged mostly in large oak barrels and about 10% in barriques." Wine Advocate

Sangiovese in purezza. Wonderfully spicy aroma, dark forest berries and cherries, some graphite and cedar wood. On the palate, silky elegance, juicy, dark berry fruits, paired with an animating fruit-acid play that makes the wine really dance across the tongue. Percarlo has depth and length as well as potential for many years in the cellar. One of the great single-varietal Sangiovese of central Tuscany. SUPERIORE.DE

"A vibrant, open-knit red, featuring black cherry, blackberry and plum fruit accented by iron, wild herbs and spices. Taut and linear, with a silky texture, lingering finish and resonant tannins. Shows terrific energy that builds from the beginning to the long, complex aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"One of the most well-known Sangiovese wines on the market is the San Giusto a Rentennano 2019 Percarlo. This organic wine has a touch of extra ripeness or richness that goes beyond the bouquet. You feel like you can bite into the fruit, and indeed the 2019 vintage stands out for its unique power and density. There's a lot to take in, and there's enough lingering fibre and fruit power to fill a long drinking window." Wine Advocate

"The Percarlo 2019 is a wine of restraint. The fruit is very pure and the tannins are very fine for this year, but also a little firm, which needs time to release. Bright red fruits, cedar, tobacco, liquorice, blood orange and spices open up nicely and play with the lively tannins. I suspect the 2019 will need a few years to reach its best level." Vinous

A beautiful, very sensual, feminine wine that is only vinified in the best vintages. Exquisitely flavoured with dark fruit, elegant and fine on the palate with plenty of fruit and length. It was named after the nickname once given to the young wild Clerico by his father: Aeroplan Servaj - wild aeroplane. And the labelling is just as wild and creative - there are six different labels! SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium red; caramel-fruity, inviting; juicy attack, fullness, round, dark fruity, lots of good tannin, pleasing." Merum

"Medium ruby red colour. Complex, spicy nose of red fruits and pure red fruits with enveloping tannins on the palate. Great balance and length. Firmly structured, yet elegant and with a certain suppleness." Jancis Robinson

"Aeroplanservaj is a kind of futuristic label for the first Barolo produced in Serralunga by Domenico Clerico. Oscar Arrivabene, the winery's winemaker, explained that 10% of the oak barrels are used for ageing in barriques; this is more of a logistical decision than a stylistic one, as the plot in Serralunga is so small. The wine has hints of smoky woods, dried cherries, cinnamon spice and a heady violet note that permeates the structure. The attack is austere, not rustic, just wild and youthful. The tannins need to be tamed at the moment, but it's a Serralunga full of detail and I'd wager it will age well." Decanter

"Firm, complex and deep, slightly iodised, also fleshy and a little herbal aroma of ripe black rather than red berries with a hint of soy sauce, tomato essence and floral nuances. Firm, tart and juicy fruit, surprisingly fresh despite all its power, a certain acid bite and fine, youthful tannins, slightly smoky notes on the palate, a little cocoa and hints of coffee, peppery notes in the background, a little herbs and salt, good depth, still barely developed, tobacco traces, very good, firm, juicy and tart-spicy, again slightly smoky finish with peppery, juniper-like tones and noticeable alcoholic strength." Wein-plus

"Flavours of cherries and plums with some fresh roses follow through to a medium body, with fine tannins and a fresh and clean finish. Bright and lively. Taut. Firm and structured." James Suckling

"This red wine is rich but densely woven, providing a backdrop for the flavours of cherries, wild strawberries, earth, minerals and wild herbs. Balanced, even graceful, with fine intensity and a lingering aftertaste of fruit, minerals and herbs." Wine Spectator

"Brilliant ruby red with garnet-coloured rim. On the nose, initially fine earthy tones, some cold smoke, after some time Assam tea, ripe raspberries, cranberries, precious wood. Polished, creamy fruit on the palate, extremely energetic and with vibrant acidity, the tannins are powerful and firm, currently still a little young and wide-meshed, will mature well." Falstaff

"The first Serralunga from the historic Monforte winery, bottled for the first time in 2006, comes from a beautiful family story. Notes of cranberry on the nose, nuances of peony, undergrowth and eucalyptus." Luca Gardini

"With its colourful fantasy label, the Domenico Clerico 2019 Barolo Aeroplan Servaj shows dark fruit and a velvety texture with rusty nails and pencil shavings. This vintage is more concentrated and structured overall, and the result is both rich and very beautiful. The fruit comes from vines planted in 1994. The wine is aged mostly in large oak barrels and about 10% in barriques." Wine Advocate