0.75 liter

Fuligni's Brunello Riserva 2013 opens with a bouquet of wild berries, almonds, grilled rosemary, balsam and cassis. As always, the highly elegant style of this family-run winery, which wins awards every year, is immediately recognisable. After good aeration, it is already rich, complex, with beautiful freshness and a precise tannin structure, suggesting at least 20 years of ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant, rich garnet red colour. Very dense and appealing nose, full of raspberry, rose petals and cherry jam. Very present on the palate, juicy and with fine tannins, literally rolls over the palate, long finish of ripe cherries." Falstaff

"Medium ruby red colour.Excellent nose of dark fruits. Really ripe yet tangy and with lovely chewy tannins supporting the fruit. Powerful but not overwhelming." Jancis Robinson

"A dense, muscular red wine with aromas and flavours of cherries, redcurrants, tobacco, iron and wild herbs. Bright and juicy, with a fine balance and a refreshing finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2013 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is initially closed and shy and needs a little more time in the glass before it begins to shine. The wine is made according to a very classic scheme that emphasises the delicate freshness of the primary fruit, the fully integrated tannins (which are enhanced by the Slavonian oak barrels) and the bright acidity. The fruit for this wine comes from 20-year-old vines, which provide the extract and concentration worthy of a Riserva. This wine is impeccably balanced and radiant. It is immediately drinkable but also has the natural DNA to ensure graceful ageing." Wine Advocate

"Delicately floral, the 2013 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva slowly awakens in the glass, coy at first, with a subtle mix of mint leaf and dried strawberry. Further coaxing brings out a seductive darkening effect, as the fruit evolves to black cherry, complicated by a whiff of incense, sage and spiced cedar. This is a model of purity, with textures of pure silk and polished red berry fruits that flood the palate. A burst of zesty acidity and sour citrus adds tension but also a sense of boundless energy. Fine-grained tannins emerge as the 2013 flexes its structural muscle, leaving a tart cranberry crunchiness and savory herbal tones to resonate. There are still many years, possibly a decade or more, of positive maturity in store for patient collectors." Vinous

"Very intense aromas of ripe dark fruits with plums and cherries intermingled with old meat, warm stones and sweet, dried wood nuances. The concentrated palate has a soft and plush core with tannins that build in impressive layers to hold a long, flavourful finish." James Suckling

"Rose, wild berries, camphor and a hint of exotic spices float from the glass, along with a touch of new leather. The taut, elegantly structured palate shows juicy red cherries, strawberry compote, baking spices and liquorice, while fine-grained tannins and lively acidity provide balance and grip." (Cellar Selection) Wine Enthusiast

As every year, Emidio pep's Pecorino is one of Italy's outstanding white wines. pepPecorino vineyard was planted between 2006 and 2007 on white clay soil with a northern exposure. It took the family some time to fully understand the grape variety, to cultivate it and to mould it in the winery. For some years now, it has been clear that the family is impressively realising the supernatural potential of this small vineyard. In the glass, it opens excitingly with a herbaceous note, dried apricots and a hint of sweet spices. Its soft textures soothe the palate, while a mixture of zesty acidity, green citrus fruit and a hint of sour melon add tension as the wine progresses. The overall impression is one of great primary concentration, tension, a hint of lime and a savoury intensity that finishes with great persistence. SUPERIORE.DE

"The ageing of wines has always played a decisive role in the philosophy of our company. This is the reason why today we are proud to be able to offer many of the oldest vintages directly from our cellar. We differentiate as follows: We make two bottlings each year. Younger vintages, which we bring to the Italian market, come from younger vineyards and the wines from the old vines are left to mature in our cellar for at least 5 years before being gradually released onto the global market. The latter wines are labelled 'Selezione Vecchie Vigne' to make it easier to distinguish them. Another important aspect is that all bottles that are over 10 years old are decanted and individually checked before they are re-corked and sent on their journey to our customers." Emidio pepe

"The 2021 Pecorino is decidedly spicey. Mint and sweet sage complement sour melon and green apple aromas. Potent yet juicy in character, it floods the palate with masses of citrus-tinged orchard fruits catapulted forward by a core of brilliant acidity and minerality. This tapers off with a tropical flourish, leaving hints of nectarine and young mango while finishing long yet wickedly fresh. It's difficult not to drink this instead of just taste." Vinous

First bottled in 1967, Roncaglie (formerly Barbaresco Masseria) comes from a vineyard in Bricco di Neive and is essentially vinified and aged like a Barolo. Since the 2018 vintage, it now comes from a small parcel that used to belong to the Socré Barbaresco winery and is now deliberately released a year later to ensure greater harmony and balance. Floral and spicy notes merge with a core of rich, generous fruit in a generous Barbaresco based on pure resonance. Barbaresco Roncaglie is vinified and matured in the same way as Vietti's single-vineyard Barolos. This means long fermentation, six months in French oak and more than two years in barrique. This, together with the broad shoulders of Neive, results in a noble Nebbiolo with clear hints of Barolo and impressive depth. SUPERIORE.DE

"Just mid ruby. Firm, concentrated raspberry-fruit nose becoming more opulent and perfumed with aeration. Impressively balanced on the palate with wired, juicy raspberry and fine tannins. Full aromatic spread on the finish." Jancis Robinson

"The Vietti 2020 Barbaresco Roncaglie Masseria has bright rose, cherry, redcurrant and angel food cake with strawberries. There are mineral notes as well, and the fruit unfolds over the palate with gentle intensity. There is some oak spice, but it is very well integrated; and the wine shows good balance, especially where the tannins versus acidity is concerned." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 Barbaresco, from vines in Roncaglie, sizzles with tension. Bright, red-toned fruit, orange peel, mint, white pepper and crushed rocks are all beautifully delineated. In many vintages, the Roncaglie is quite showy. That is hardly the case in 2020, a vintage in which the wine is classically austere and in need of time. Super-classic." Vinous

"Very perfumed and pretty with sliced strawberries and citrus blossom. Plenty of forest berries, too. Medium to full body. Creamy tannins and a fresh finish. Fine texture and gorgeous." James Suckling

Marco Bacci's Brunello Riserva from the dream vintage 2016 presents itself full and generous on the nose. Cascades of violet and black fruits wash over the senses with black cherry, blackberry jam and smoked tobacco. The opulent overall impression is completed with a hint of bitter almond and subtle notes of smoke and nuts. These give the wine a deep and dark character. Very well structured on the palate and built for a long life with its well-formed acid-tannin framework. SUPERIORE.DE

"Aromas of camphor, new leather, blue flowers and dark spices come to the fore. Full-bodied and elegantly structured, the savoury palate offers ripe Marasca cherry, crushed raspberry, liquorice and tobacco, framed by tightly wound, fine-grained tannins. The fresh acidity provides balance. It's still youthfully tart and needs a few more years to unwind." Wine Enthusiast

"The Renieri 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is balanced and bright, but it also shows the unmistakable power and strength of this classic vintage. Cassis and cherry are framed by fragrant balsamic aromas with tarry smoke, cola and liquorice. There's a bright note here too, reminiscent of natural rubber, followed by lovely mineral tones that add elegance." Wine Advocate

"An intense red wine that offers a wealth of concentrated aromas of black cherries, blackcurrants, violets, chocolate and earth. It firms up at the end, with the dense tannins leaving a compact impression for now. Spicy elements shimmer through on the finish." Wine Spectator

"Southern part of the appellation, from a farm with great history, a refined Brunello, nose of redcurrants, with hints of Mediterranean scrub and balsamic, of eucalyptus. The mouthfeel is dense with salty tannins and a return to fruity notes." Luca Gardini

"Enticing aromas of black truffle with cherry and strawberry. The palate is full and dense with super polished tannins that are layered and refined. Great length. Goes on and on. Not to be tasted until after 2025, but already captivating." James Suckling

Calvari explodes on the palate with an abundance of plums, sour cherries, graphite, flowers and minerals. This towering, massive Refosco remains extraordinarily pristine: indeed, it tastes like biting into a perfectly ripe grape from this old vineyard! A deep, baritonal register develops in the glass as this profound wine gradually reveals its pedigree. Until now, we have only known such class from Miani. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2020 Refosco Vigna Calvariv is youthfully coy. It slowly emerges from the glass with a hauntingly dark bouquet as wild berries and currants come together with lavender, sweet smoke and the slightest hint of clove that adds a lovely contrast. This is pure elegance, silky, nearly creamy in feel, with a polished wave of ripe red and black fruits complicated by depths of salty minerals. Sage and dark chocolate traces mingle toward the close. The 2020 tapers off on a note of refinement, tannic and firm, yet not achingly so, leaving a bitter blackberry tinge that makes for perfect punctuation. This is a well-muscled stallion chomping at the bit, yet patience will be rewarded." Vinous

The Piero selection was created as a tribute to the work of Pierluigi Talenti, who has selected and worked the Sangiovese with passion over the years. A 1.95 hectare vineyard near the centre of the winery, with unique pedoclimatic characteristics, stands out from all other vineyards for its consistent quality. The gently sloping terrain is surrounded by woods rich in marl, with a south-easterly exposure at an altitude of 410 metres above sea level, where Pierluigi pursued and cultivated his personal clonal selection in the 1970s. It is a wine with an intense and persistent character, ruby red colour, fine and elegant tannins. After maturing in tonneaux for at least 24 months, it is bottled until it is released onto the market. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark red; reductive-barrelled, rubbery, ripe-fruity, multi-layered, inviting; sweetness, juicy, fruity length, coffee, very appealing." (JLF) Merum

"Uncork the bottle a few hours earlier and you will be enchanted by engaging notes of raspberries, plums, undergrowth and violets; in the mouth, the wine is full of power, vigour and yet suppleness right through to the complex finish. Impeccable style, can also mature excellently." Vinum

"Bright ruby red with a dark, sparkling centre. Open-hearted and inviting on the nose, blackberry, plum, black cherry, a mix of sealing wax and almonds on the finish. Exciting on the palate, on strawberry candy, creamy fruit, with grippy tannins, plus fine ferrous tones, keeps coming back in the mouth, still needs some time." Falstaff

"A vibrant red wine whose lively acidity brings the aromas and flavours of rose, cherry, raspberry and minerals to a lingering finish. It is supple and balanced, with a graceful feel and a long, fruity and mineral aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"Deep, shiny ruby red with bright orange-coloured reflections. A little closed on the nose, more spicy than fruity and with just a hint of spicy oak. Lively, deep sour cherry palate with plenty of body and impeccable balance. Long, gravelly tannins and tangy cherry fruit with just the right touch of oak. Will age gracefully." Jancis Robinson

"Attractive flavours of crushed berries, cherries and bark follow through to a medium body, with lovely fruit and lively acidity. Balanced and delicious already, but may improve with age." James Suckling

"The Talenti 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Piero is a wine with plenty of fruit and muscle. It has an intoxicating bouquet with glowing spices, stewed cherries and cured tobacco delivered in generous waves and rich volume. The wine's personality is ultimately revealed as strong and simple, and I think these adjectives hit the nail on the head. Thanks to its velvety tannins, it offers smooth transitions and is quite full-bodied on the finish." Wine Advocate

"Dedicated to the memory of the founder, from the vineyard of the same name just a few steps away from the winery. Notes of red cherry on the nose, a hint of black pepper in the grains, a hint of juniper and bergamot. The sip has citrus sensations and a memory of red cherry, return of sweet spices." Luca Gardini

"This Auslese comes from a two-hectare vineyard at an altitude of 410 metres with rocky sandstone on the surface. Riccardo Talenti says that he always produces the best fruit from the vineyard, regardless of the conditions. Aged in tonneaux, Piero opens with intense coffee flavours that mingle with spicy notes of cloves and nutmeg. On the palate, it develops a sweet and sour character, while suede permeates the dark, fleshy red cherry. The tannins are grainy and substantial, but ripe, and it cries out for a few more years to develop." Decanter

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Piero is not to be missed. It blossoms slowly with a tantalising blend of spicy blackberries, violet pastille and orange zest. It impresses with its lively, ripe wild berry fruit and juicy acidity. Tactile mineral tones add contrast, and rosy inner flowers emerge towards the end. The 2019 lingers incredibly long and takes on a savoury note, while the palate lingers with a savoury tension, even as the fine tannins grip the senses. The Piero is already showing such extravagance and balance. It will be an exciting Brunello to follow over the next two decades." Wine Advocate

The vines for Emidio's new and second single vineyard "Branella" are, believe it or not, almost 70 years old. In these young days, the wine is finer and more elegant, but also more restrained than its cru counterpart "Casa pep". With increasing aeration, it shows a freshness and berry flavour that leads to more and more juiciness and an incredible length after a few more hours, which once again impressively proves that Emidio pepis the uncrowned king of the Montepulciano grape. The impatient will open the first bottle many hours before drinking, but with more discipline, the decision can only be made: Put it deep in the cellar and wait for another terrific development ... SUPERIORE.DE

"Spicy and floral, the recently bottled 2021 Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Vecchie Vigne Branella smolders up with an earthy blend of crushed rocks, iron, freshly tilled soil and dried black cherries. This dazzles with its vividly ripe blackberry fruits and exotic spices. Sour citrus contrasts the grippy tannins that mount toward the close. The 2021 finishes pleasantly chewy and structured with silty tannins. The 2021 ends incredibly long with a bitter blackberry concentration and violet inner florals. The warmth of the vintage can be felt in the tannins, yet balance is expertly maintained."

Kurni is an exceptionally opulent wine and consists of one hundred per cent Montepulciano grapes, which are partially dried. This makes Kurni - stylistically speaking - central Italy's answer to high-calibre Amarone. Clearly defined, multi-layered, dark cherries, oriental spices, savoury, balsamic, lush, sweet and voluminous, exploding fruit, refined tannins, an incessant final and and and ... SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep dark purple colour. Initially somewhat restrained on the nose, fine earthy notes, cassis, cigar box, smoke, after a little time on dark chocolate. Opens up with great creaminess and mellowness on the palate, powerful, very complex, yet elegant despite its concentration, very great length, currently still a little young." Falstaff

Luciano has been keeping back a small quantity of his Barolo Le Vigne for a few years now, allowing it to continue maturing in the bottle in his cellar. The result is called "Sibi et Paucis", an impressive and rare opportunity to experience the marvellous ageing potential of his great Baroli. SUPERIORE.DE

"This version shows ripe aromas and flavours of plum, cherry, leather and woody undergrowth. Firm and dense, with a balance that shifts towards the tannins, but long and satisfying." Wine Spectator

"The Barolo Le Vigne Sibi et Paucis 2014 from Luciano Sandrone shows a pronounced tertiary note reminiscent of dried kitchen herbs, fennel and tarragon. The fruit transitions into dried cherries and blackcurrants. The wine has a spicy side with black pepper or chilli flakes on a medium-bodied texture. In this case, the tannins are integrated and polished. The 2014 is ready to drink now. Only 1,500 bottles were set aside for this late release." Wine Advocate

"The 2014 Barolo Le Vigne Sibi et Paucis opens with notes of cedar, sweet pipe tobacco, dried herbs, mint and dried cherry. Medium-bodied and sinewy, the 2014 is characterised by bright acids, plenty of gorgeous minerality and a medium-bodied structure. The long, lingering finish is a real beauty." Vinous

"Bright ruby red with a garnet rim. Dried cherries and Parma violets are loaded along with liquorice, but there is also a darker character of fresh plums and restrained minty minerality. Dense, velvety and relaxing, but with a full body and great concentration. The tannins are infused with spicy flavours of plum and liquorice and are carried by a powerful acidity." James Suckling

Here comes the second vintage from Emidio pepsmall parcel called "Casa pep", which once again sets the tone in terms of concentration and expression. This top-class Montepulciano only reveals its true complexity and its concert of flavours after many hours and you would be well advised to open the bottle in good time or to keep it in the cellar for a few more years. SUPERIORE.DE

"A cascade of roses and violets gives way to crushed blackberries and wet stones as the 2021 Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Vecchie Vigne Casa pepblossoms in the glass. This wine is luxuriously round and juicy, with an abundance of wild berries supported by lively acidity. A hint of bitterness and grainy tannins enliven the palate. The 2021 finishes with a tart concentration and is pleasantly viscous. It has only just been bottled and will certainly develop wonderfully over time." Vinous

Emanuele Pangrazi is probably the most ambitious winemaker in Lazio at the moment. With his extreme planting density and radical yield restriction, he is following a path that is pioneering for Lazio. After thoroughly analysing his terroir and the climatic conditions, it was clear to him in 2006 that he would plant primarily French grape varieties based on the principle of the great wines of the Rhone. In addition to his famous Cuvée Habemus (Etichetta Bianca) and the San Giovenale Rosso (assemblage of two vintages of Habemus), he also vinifies four single-varietal Habemus wines, albeit in very small quantities.

Habemus Etichetta Blu is a pure Grenache (also called Alicante or Cannonau in Italy, depending on the growing region) from a one-hectare vineyard planted in 2006 in Blera at an altitude of 380 metres on loamy, skeleton-rich soils and grown in the bush. Brilliant ruby red colour. In the attractive bouquet, typical varietal aromas of wild berries, tin cans and liquorice powder, framed by blackberry and blueberry jam, undergrowth and dried violets, cocoa beans and Lebanese cedar. On the palate, a highly detailed cornucopia of sour cherry, red berries, dried oregano, aniseed and a hint of preserved peach. The palate then presents a delicate and complex overall ensemble with hints of damp earth, wonderfully refreshing acidity and a touch of Indian spice.

This Grenache is vertical and straightforward, bursting with energy and electricity and endowed with a very respectable personality. If you can buy one of the 500 bottles produced in this vintage, you should enjoy it with Rossini-style tournedos! SUPERIORE.DE

Luce Brunello has been one of the icons in the large portfolio of Frescobaldi wines from Tuscany for years. The 2019 edition opens with great power and determination with ripe fruit flavours of blackberries and candied cherries. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and very harmonious thanks to the bright acidity and the overall quality of the primary fruit flavours of this excellent vintage. The tannins are well woven into the full-bodied density of the wine. Be sure to aerate or, better still, leave to mature for a few years in the cellar. SUPERIORE.DE

"Multi-layered aromas of ripe red fruits, spices, undergrowth and lilac; round, dense and with verve on the palate, racy tannins, combines juice and mineral character, fine tartness on the final. A successful blend of elegant juiciness and full-bodied substance." Weinwisser

"Rich, sparkling ruby colour with a fine garnet sheen. Memorable nose with lots of fleshy plum and blackberry fruit, plus rose petals and tobacco spice. Rich and juicy in the attack and on the palate, shows wonderfully integrated tannins, opens up in many layers, with a delicate minty final." Falstaff

"Medium to deep ruby red with a light, brick-coloured rim. Complex, spicy-minty oak with firm cherry fruit underneath. Lots of youthful, tangy cherry fruit with a deep layer of chewy tannins. Very complete and beautiful." Jancis Robinson

"The Tenuta Luce 2019 Brunello di Montalcino has a good amount of oak spice with campfire ash, forest floor, dried cherry, cassis, rye bread and something floral like hydrangea or pressed roses. There is also a balsamic note with sambuca or aniseed. It is a medium to full-bodied Brunello with flavours of dried fruit and a considerable alcohol content of 15% on the long finish." Wine Advocate

"This ripe and opulent red wine is packed with flavours of black cherries, blackberries and plums and captures your attention from the first sip. Vibrant and solidly built, with notes of wild thyme, earth and sweet spices, it shows excellent balance and length and remains fresh and juicy on the finish." Wine Spectator

"Another intense year for the Brunello from Tenuta Luce. Elegance and spiciness on the nose, with notes of cranberry, peony and a hint of chinotto, with a hint of cinnamon on the finish. Salty on the palate, with hints of blueberries and floral notes." Luca Gardini

"Black cherries and blueberries with undertones of walnut and lavender. Medium-bodied with very fine tannins that run the length of the wine and caress every inch of the palate. Fresh and lively. A wine for the cellar, but already fantastic to savour now." James Suckling

Barolo Riserva Ravera Vigna Elena is a wonderful wine from Elvio Cogno and, not surprisingly, as is so often the case, the best from the collection of the family business from Novello. It is aged in large Slavonian oak barrels and only produced in selected vintages. It exudes delicate truffle notes and aromas of wild berries with a hint of exotic spice. The wine is soft, lush and well-structured, making your mouth water. This Barolo shows the power and inner structure of the Ravera Cru and should age beautifully over the next two decades. SUPERIORE.DE

"Comes from a one-hectare vineyard planted with a special Nebbiolo clone: fresh berry notes in combination with orange zest and balsamic spice flavours; precise evolution, carried by polished tannins and a crisp acidity, berry, invigorating, long and full of finesse." Vinum

"Sparkling ruby colour with a pronounced garnet rim. Fine, inviting nose, opens with notes of blood orange, plus fresh plum, some leather in the background. Lots of juicy, present fruit on the palate, clear flavours of fresh raspberries, pithy, dense tannins, built up in many layers, rich and full-bodied on the final, salty." Falstaff

"Pale ruby red colour. Lots of minerals on the nose and only slowly raspberry fruit and iodine notes. A slow-burning wine. Great freshness, length and juiciness. Multi-layered, with lots of tannins on the finish. You can approach it now, because it's hard to resist." Jancis Robinson

"The Barolo Riserva Ravera Vigna Elena 2018 is an airy, ethereal wine. Dried cherry, tobacco, incense, dried flowers, spices and leather are the first to open up, supported by Ravera acidity and tannin." Vinous

"This elegant, expressive, straightforward and powerful red wine shows flavours of strawberries, cherries, rose hips, eucalyptus, juniper, iron and salt. Supple and nimble, with a line of resonant tannins on the finish." Wine Spectator

"This is an elegant, flavoursome and refined Barolo. Medium-bodied, with notes of sour cherries, orange peel, mahogany and balsamic notes framed by silky tannins. Transparent character. Already delicious now, but even better from 2026." James Suckling

This dry Gewürztraminer from the Pirchschrait single vineyard at Kolbenhof is a tribute to Konrad Oberhofer, who was the first to vinify the grapes from individual vineyards separately in the 1930s. Martin Foradori Hofstätter's grandfather was a pioneer of vineyard thinking. His goal was to make the special character of each site tangible in the wine.

After ten years of maturation on the fine yeast in Liters barrels, the Gewürztraminer develops a dense texture without losing freshness. The fine yeast also gives it a charming aroma of toasted bread, medlars, blossom honey and dried fruits. In contrast, the already low fruit sweetness recedes discreetly during the years of ageing, while the minerality gains in expression. In the glass, the top-quality Pirchschrait impresses with a subtle interplay of flavours. SUPERIORE.DE

Pònkler is the house's top wine and at the same time the essence of Franz Haas' decades of experience with the undemanding Pinot Nero grape. The vines, planted in 2007, grow on soils of weathered porphyry in a single vineyard at an altitude of 750 metres. The selection of French clones, which have proven to be particularly suitable for high altitudes, the high density of vines and the low yields guarantee a very high quality of grapes.

The stronger sunshine in the high altitudes of South Tyrol gives the wine its typical ripe fruit flavours. On the nose, it is concentrated with great depth and reveals ripe red and black berries, as well as star anise and leather. In the mouth, it builds up the precise primary fruit in layers and is reminiscent of medicinal herbs and cinchona bark. With every sip, it shows its class, great substance and precise tannin structure. And in the infinitely long finish it is there again, this boundless depth and complexity. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich ruby colour with a fine garnet rim. Concentrated and appealing nose, opens with notes of ripe plums, wild raspberries and spicy chestnut honey. Full-bodied and firm in the attack and on the palate, lots of red berry fruit, grippy tannins, firm pressure on the final, still somewhat characterised by the wood in the aftertaste, which slows down the drinking flow." Falstaff

"Very pure Pinot aromas of sliced strawberries and lemon shrub as well as flowers such as lilac. Subtle sandalwood. Medium to full body with very fine tannins and a bright and fresh finish. Straightforward and fine. A seductive Alpine Pinot from a single vineyard." James Suckling

Only 3,000 bottles of this wine from the highest vineyard in Montalcino are bottled. The choice of the vineyard, which is situated over 600 metres above sea level, is also due to climate change, where winegrowers are increasingly looking for cooler sites for the Sangiovese - and the result is once again a Brunello in a class of its own: leather, tobacco, small red berries and a surprisingly fresh, clearly mineral note on the nose. Although the wine appears very graceful and bright, it is powerful and long. Its grippy tannins and finely knit acidity emphasise our impression that this wine still has a long life ahead of it. SUPERIORE.DE

"Beautiful notes of wild strawberries, cedar spice and crushed stones unfold in the glass. On the palate, it glides along smoothly yet refined, with a lovely inner sweetness and brilliant acidity providing gravitas as the mineral red fruits slowly saturate. The 2018 finishes remarkably fresh yet with admirable length and power as notes of sour cherry and sage slowly fade away. What a treasure. The Passo del Lume Spento is a unique wine, based more on energy than power and is undoubtedly one of the outstanding wines of the vintage." Vinous

"The Le Ragnaie 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Passo del Lume Spento is very pretty in this vintage with tart cherry and flavours of cola, garden herbs, blue flowers and blood orange. This is usually my favourite of the three single vineyard wines from this estate. I welcome the relatively low alcohol content of 13.5%, which allows more of the wine to be savoured in one sitting. The tannins melt gently across the palate." Wine Advocate

"On the nose, aromas of blood orange, black pepper, balsamic and damp soil swirl together before subtler notes of rose petals and mint provide levity and freshness. Strawberry and cherry sweetness on the palate meet more blood orange and a powerful saline streak for a balanced, cohesive feel, before dense tannins usher in a warming finish." Wine Enthusiast

Since the 2015 vintage, Le Ragnaie has been vinifying another single-vineyard Brunello, which comes from the famous Montosoli vineyard and therefore also bears the black label. Only just under 3,000 bottles of the 2018 vintage will be released, and we are delighted that we were able to obtain at least a few of them. On the nose, graceful tones of wild cherry, pressed blueberries and small blue violets growing deep in the forest. The flavours are more vertical, with cola and medicinal tones rising straight from the top. The attack is compact and lean, with a long, medium-bodied persistence that leaves a precise and sharply drawn trail of fruit flavours. This expression and class can only be found in the wines of the Montosoli vineyard and this wine, rich in finesse, is a real treat! SUPERIORE.DE

"A fluid, iron and tobacco-coloured red wine with a core of cherry and blackcurrant flavours surrounded by a firm, well-integrated structure. The finish has earthy and savoury accents of Mediterranean scrub. Shows excellent harmony and finesse." Wine Spectator

"To preserve freshness, Riccardo Campinoti bottled all his Brunello a full year earlier than usual and reduced time in wood from 36 to 30 months. Nevertheless, Casanovina is even more closed than when I tried it a year ago, right after bottling. Of Le Ragnaie’s four new releases, this is the most complete and boasts the ripest, most dignified tannins, although they are still firm. Aromas are redolent of red berries, violet, fennel and lilac. It will need time to reveal its full potential, but for now, crunchy fruit and steely acidity distinguish the mineral-led, energetic palate." Decanter

"The Brunello di Montalcino Casanovina Montosoli 2018 is one of three single-vineyard wines released by Le Ragnaie. It displays fresh and rich fruit flavours of dark cherries, pressed blueberries and mild spice. You can feel the soft richness of the ripe fruit. There is also a pronounced mineral signature with chalky gravel, which contributes to the dryness and powdery tannins of this wine. Despite all this, a sweet cherry note lingers on the finish. It needs a few more years to develop." Wine Advocate

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Casanovina Montosoli is a sleeping giant slowly coming to life, with a bouquet of dusty roses and brown spices over a core of dried black cherries. The palate is like crushed velvet, but surprisingly light and graceful, while dark red fruits and mineral tones soak the senses in primary concentration and linger with a hint of balsamic herbs. The fine tannins linger in beautiful contrast to the crackling residual acidity, giving the impression of youthful structure and balance. There is so much inner beauty here, but it will take years for the 2018 to fully come into its own." Vinous

When the world-famous Oenologist Carlo Ferrini makes his own wine, you can't help but be excited. Here, he has succeeded in creating an interpretation of Sangiovese that brings all his experience from decades of working with this grape variety to the fore as if through a burning glass. The moderate use of wood through ageing in 700-litre tonneaux expresses the clarity and personality of the grape and the unique terroir (there are just 1.5 hectares of the best Brunello sites) in an archetypal way.

Expressive and full of character, the 2019 vintage shows concentration and structure with notes of red plums, wild strawberries, cedar pieces, mandarin juice, lemon peel, chopped ginger and celery. Wild thyme and marjoram form the background, but it is the character of fresh cherries, rose petals and grapefruit that gives the range grace and authenticity. Medium-bodied, perfectly ripe tannins of commendable beauty and an honest, subtle, enveloping finish. Exciting in the sip, you want to drink it, drink it and drink it again. Elegance and perfection - a divine wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"Carlo Ferrini's Brunello has long been one of the top wines of the appellation. Carlo Ferrini, who normally advises numerous wineries in Tuscany and beyond, has created his own masterpiece here. Complex bouquet, elegant, full of finesse with a subtle souplesse. A marvellous liaison of floral notes and rather red berry fruits is revealed: red plum, red currant and pomegranate, a touch of orange. You can already sense the freshness and that it was harvested à point. Everything is very complex and interwoven with fine Sangiovese fruit. Very precise and yet intense, with a creamy, melting body and silky tannins, it continues on the palate, very distinguished and noble." Weinwisser

"Bright, elegant ruby violet colour. The nose is expressive, inviting, with rich fruit, deep cherry, blood orange, a hint of ripe raspberry, rosehip, very complex and inviting, high elegance, Burgundian. Juicy on the palate, polished, with clear fruit, harmonious, comes in many layers, enormous elegance and finesse, juicy and with excellent drinking flow." Falstaff

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is hauntingly dark, with a cascade of dried violets, black cherries and cedar shavings complicated by hints of ash. It's velvety in feel yet cool-toned and spry, with radiant red berry fruits that ride a stream of vibrant acidity. While structured, its tannins are beautifully contoured, soft and round. The 2019 leaves a pleasantly bitter tinge of tart cranberry that tugs at the cheeks. This is a gorgeous performance and a new benchmark for Giodo." Vinous

"An exuberant red with vibrant cherry and raspberry fruit that is pure and tangy thanks to the lively acidity, while mineral and herbaceous accents add depth on the finish. This wine is also structured, with well-integrated tannins that sneak into the firm, lingering aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 vintage, which was harvested in mid-September, is Giodo's 11th release - and the best yet. It seduces with breathtaking aromas of gardenia, pimento flowers and strawberries, accompanied by fennel and subtle wood smoke. This immediate appeal is amplified on the palate, where the flavours linger in the mouth - it's like biting into the freshest persimmon. Crisp yet lush with deep substance, the finely powdered, gracefully assertive tannins give the wine shape, while blood orange permeates the long finish." Decanter

"This wine comes from a three-hectare plot with 19-year-old vines that are obsessively tended and cared for. This amphitheatre-shaped parcel called La Poderina is located deep in the forest on a steep slope with a view of Monte Amiata in the distance. The soils are white in colour and contain a lot of rock. This wine is of great depth and dimension, with vibrant energy, elegant balsamic notes and sweet ripe fruit. The medium-bodied fruit is well balanced with the wine's acidity and fine tannins. It finishes with floral notes of violets and iris." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of cedar wood, earth, tree bark, fruit tea, black tea and cherries. Then fresh and dried flowers come in. Medium to full body that grows on the palate, with excellent fine tannins that run the length of the wine. It is structured and powerful with great length. The balance between acidity and tannin is incredible. Very clear and transparent. What a wine. Drinkable, but better in three or four years." James Suckling

"Taut and clean on the nose, with fine aromas of red plum, a hint of peony, salty nuances and a hint of black olive, with balsamic and medicinal herbs on the finish. The flavour is rich and elegant, with tannins that blend well with the fresh, spicy component. The finish is slightly citrusy, a great personality." Luca Gardini

For us, the pure Cabernet Franc from Duemani is one of the best representatives of the grape variety and the western Tuscan coastal region. The bouquet has an extraordinary clarity of dark plum, coffee and wild roses. Rich and with a perfectly integrated woody note on the palate, its strength, structure and elegance are particularly fascinating. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby colour with a subtly brightening rim. On the nose, gentle notes of blood orange zest, cassis, a hint of eucalyptus, liquorice, with an aftertaste of incense, very fruity. A juicy entry and progression on the palate, showing fleshy, precise fruit, savoury, noble, with great length and a rosemary final." Falstaff

"The 2020 Duemani is classy, refined and supple. Mocha, dried herbs, menthol, rose petals and succulent red/purplish fruit all meld together effortlessly. A bit of aeration brings out the wine's energy and vibrancy, both of which are admirable. I would give it a year or two in bottle to see if a more aromatic Franc character emerges. Today, the 2020 is still very much on the fruity side." Vinous

"A pure and juicy red with black berries, juicy fruit, spice and fresh herbs, like thyme. Some terra-cotta. Medium-bodied with juicy fruit and a creamy texture. Plenty of flavor at the end." James Suckling

Suisassi is rich and expressive. The bouquet convinces with aromas of sage, rosemary, wild flowers, liquorice, violets and plums. Very full and round on the palate with memories of berries, chocolate and nuts. Elegant and intellectual, still needs time. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red colour. Wonderfully fragrant floral nose of fresh violets, juicy cherries, rose hips, blood oranges, with an aftertaste of elderberries and dried macchia. Very polished, with cool fruit on the tongue, very juicy on the palate, with youthful, grippy tannins, a floral finish, powerful, with currently still somewhat youthful tannins." Falstaff

"The 2020 Suisassi is bursting with fresh blueberry, lavender, mint, spice, black pepper, cloves and incense. This brisk, vibrant Syrah is quite charming. The mid-weight, intensely savory style offers tons of freshness, a rarity on the Tuscan coast." Vinous

"Very attractive aromas of meat, spice and blue fruits with cloves and black pepper. Medium-bodied with very fine tannins that are silky and polished. Lovely aftertaste with plenty going on." James Suckling