0.75 liter

"Bright ruby red with bright orange reflections. In the nose wild mushrooms, black and even some white truffle, plus rosehip tea, red currant and blackberry. Freshly ground pepper and crushed juniper provide spice and plenty of ethereal aromas. Clear, bright and precise on the palate. The fruit comes out much more clearly now. Totally juicy and fortunately flanked again and again by the acid structure. Invigorating, animating to drink and slender. The fruit now appears small-berried and positively acidic on the palate. The initially earthy aromas only have a subordinate effect in the finish. The show clearly belongs to sour cherry, lovage and blackberry. Iodiney, almost salty and with a fleshy character, it makes you want more. This is pure umami." Marian Henß (Sommelier)

"The 2017 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is silky and polished from the start. Nevertheless, there is a lot of depth behind the elegant façade. Juicy red fruits, spices, tobacco, cedar, leather and dried flowers combine in a sensual, lush Barolo that captures the essence of Rocche." Vinous

"A juicy red wine with aromas and flavours of soaked cherries, raspberries and plums. It gains depth with accents of flowers, earth and wild herbs as it transitions into a long, delicious finish. Skilfully balanced and persistent on the finish." Wine Spectator

"Roagna has its modern winery, with most of the structure underground, at the foot of the Castiglione Falletto village at the center of the appellation. Made with fruit grown around the corner, the 2017 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione (with 2,680 bottles released) offers a sharp and linear presentation with crisp berry fruit, crushed stone, rose and licorice root. This is one of the most expressive vineyard sites in the appellation, I find. The wine ferments in oak over two months with submerged cap and then ages for five long years in a combination of oak cask and cement." Wine Advocate

Roagna's Barbaresco Pajè already has a great need to communicate in its youth and shows itself open-minded and with multi-layered aromas, full-bodied and in harmonious balance. An extraordinary pleasure for the next 20 years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red. Pajè discharges in unerring salvos of raspberries and sour cherries as well as laurels and walnut shells, its shimmering ethereal top note reminiscent of asphalted roads on the high summer horizon. Mild spices like cloves, black pepper and dried cherries are a recurring thematic theme like the theme tune of a monumental soundtrack. Mercilessly dry on the palate with beguiling extract sweetness. Grown on vines over 80 years old, the fruit and spice notes of the nose are accurately reflected on the palate and are firmly coated like Kevlar by ripe, tightly woven tannins. Complex and multi-layered, it flows across the palate with a silky feel, almost floating, and its fruity, ethereal finish seems almost weightless with an extra-long finish. Large glasses and time are the weapons of choice." Sebastian Bordthäuser (Sommelier und Wein-Journalist)

"The 2017 Barbaresco Pajè offers a compelling blend of sweet red fruits, cinnamon, blood orange, leather, cedar and tobacco. The 2017 impresses with its medium weight structure, which unfolds well with a little time in the glass and shows its natural breadth and creaminess. There's a good amount of immediacy and overall appeal here too." Vinous

"A tightly wound, sleek red marked by floral, cherry, menthol and mineral aromas and flavors. Reveals ripeness midpalate and builds to a lingering, detailed finish. Shows plenty of energy and complexity." Wine Spectator

"Showing a transparent or almost naked fruit quality, the 2017 Roagna Barbaresco Pajè is a beautiful and graceful wine that retains an exceptional sense of lightness and elegance despite everything we have heard about this hot and dry vintage. The finish of the Pajè is exceptional, with chiselled aromas of wild berries, iris root, liquorice and a subtle hint of white pepper. The mouthfeel is characterised by extremely fine tannins." Wine Advocate

"Ruby red with bright reflections. The nose delights with a bouquet of floral notes: Mauve, hibiscus and hollyhocks are surrounded by fruity cherries and preserved raspberries and spicy aromas of black pepper, cedar and juniper berries. The red fruit is underpinned by dark aromatics and vegetal notes of redcurrant and blackberry leaves. Initially subtle on the palate until it brings out the iron fist in a velvet glove. The gentle attack calmly builds up immense pressure with great inner tension on the mid palate. The extract-sweet fruit of cherries and a fine core of sloes mingle with marzipan and noble bitter notes of the ripe tannins, which give it additional length. The exemplary use of wood sets the scene for exactly what characterises a Barbaresco: Concentration with simultaneous lightness and transparency." Sebastian Bordthäuser (Sommelier und Wein-Journalist)

"The 2017 Barbaresco Faset is open, graceful and quite pretty. Sweet dried cherry, incense, tobacco, mint and dried flowers are all nicely lifted in this attractive, medium-bodied Barbaresco. Notes of cedar, tobacco, incense and dried flowers give this wine aromatic presence and lift. The Faset is another wine in this series that will drink well with minimal cellaring." Vinous

"This red shows a supple texture and macerated cherry and strawberry fruit, which initially add up to a lot of pleasure. Yet there is a solid base of tannins too, a promise of this wine's future potential. Comes together on the fresh finish, where an echo of red fruit and emerging mineral elements linger." Wine Spectator

Albesani leaves nothing to be desired, in expression and character it is simply grandiose. The fresh bouquet of flowers, chalk, tobacco and cherries continues on the palate, where a beguilingly silky tannin and aromatic intensity virtually rob the senses. A masterpiece from Luca Roagna! SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2017 Barbaresco Albesani is delicate and ethereal. Crushed flowers, sweet dried cherry, cinnamon and orange zest give this deceptively light-bodied Barbaresco a good deal of both nuance and complexity. All the elements are so nicely balanced. All things considered, the 2017 is an understated wine from this Neive site." Vinous

"This red features excellent balance and complexity, with a supple and delicate texture despite a solid matrix of tannins underneath. Reveals macerated cherry, plum and floral notes accented by licorice and mineral on the long, resonant finish." Wine Spectator

"Vigna Rionda Riserva is for us every year the Barolo from Serralunga at the peak of its potential. It is the wine we are most proud of. Vigna Rionda, protagonist of the history of our winery, is one of the most sought-after and prestigious cru sites in the entire Barolo area. We are not just talking about microclimate and soil here: Something very special happens on this hill in Serralunga d'Alba, and this something gives the Vigna Rionda Riserva its life and makes it a truly unique wine." Franco Massolino

Barolo Riserva Vigna Rionda is absolutely breathtaking. Deep and monumental in attitude, it captivates all the senses - from start to finish. A whole range of Rionda aromas flow from the glass. Silky yet powerful, graceful yet full of seriousness, the wine captures all the contrasts that make an exceptional Barolo. Rose petals, lavender, red and violet fruits, spices and new leather give this hypnotic Barolo from Massolino its very typical and unmistakable nuances. A great wine! SUPERIORE.DE

"Just medium ruby red. Powerful, concentrated, complex nose that immediately draws you in. Notes of black pepper and a hint of gingerbread, reflecting the warm vintage, but with real verve. Full-bodied on the palate, sweet and tart cherry. Lots of generous but not sweet fruit, contrasted by finely chiselled, polished tannins. It's ripe now but will hold up. Will seduce many." Jancis Robinson

"Notes of wild strawberries and sour cherries with dried flowers and orange chocolate in the background. Medium to full-bodied, very polished and fine-grained, with subtle red fruit notes and a mineral backbone. Even and balanced with a structured finish." James Suckling

"The nose is impressively fresh and lively, with a mix of white pepper, watermelon, wild strawberry and mint leaf. Less restrained than usual on the palate, it is firm, still young and chewy, with brilliant, long acidity and a cherry pit finish. It deserves time to develop more complexity." Decanter

"This is a great wine and although it could do with more years of ageing, there is nothing wrong with enjoying it in the near or medium future. The 2017 Barolo Riserva Vigna Rionda is packed with dark fruit, but it also shows delicate spice with black liquorice and rusty metal. The intensity of the wine and its mouthfeel are great." Wine Advocate

"The 2017 Barolo Riserva Vigna Rionda is simply stunning. The purest essence of Rionda comes through in a captivating Barolo that astounds. Sweet red cherry fruit, kirsch, rose petals, liquorice and blood orange are just some of the many aromas and flavours that rise from the glass. Exotic and racy, the 2017 is a real head-turner." Vinous

"Bright ruby red with a shiny core. Elegant nose, also of red-cheeked apple, minimal hint of peach, then raspberries, cranberries, in the reverberation a hint of precious wood and sealing wax. Tense on the palate, builds slowly, with compact tannin and clear fruit, seems very deep, finishes with salt and great juiciness, very long." Falstaff

Gallina comes from a steep, sandy vineyard, similar to the Asili site, but with less lime content, which gives it more roundness and fullness. Full bouquet of sweet tobacco, cedar, liquorice and dried herbs. A soft, sweet, red fruit combines in an exciting way with the typical Roagna austerity on the palate to an impressive complexity and length. It will only reveal its true elegance to us in a few years. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2017 Barbaresco Gallina is bright, translucent and bursting with energy. Crushed red berry fruit, blood orange, spice, anise, mint and chalk run through this nervy, mid-weight Barbaresco. In 2017, Gallina tends more towards the taut end of the spectrum. Sweet cherry water and floral notes give it an exotic edge on the finish." Vinous

"Both rich and fruity, boasting cherry, strawberry, rose, iron and eucalyptus aromas and flavors. Shows terrific balance and a juiciness that extends the fruit and savory finish." Wine Spectator

"Ruby red with bright reflections. The nose delights with a bouquet of floral notes: Mallow, hibiscus and hollyhocks are surrounded by fruity cherries and preserved raspberries and complemented by spicy aromas of black pepper, cedar and juniper berries. The red fruit is accompanied by dark aromas and vegetal notes of blackcurrant and blackberry leaves. The attack is initially subtle until the iron fist is brought out in a velvet glove. The gentle attack calmly builds up immense pressure with great inner tension on the mid-palate. The extract-sweet fruit of cherries and a fine core of sloes mingle with marzipan and noble bitter notes of the ripe tannins, which give it additional length. The exemplary use of wood highlights exactly what characterises a Barbaresco: Concentration combined with lightness and transparency." Sebastian Bordthäuser (Sommelier und Wein-Journalist)

"The 2018 Barbaresco Faset is bright, exuberant and charming, in other words, everything a Faset should be. Sweet, dried cherries, mint, spice, tobacco and cedar are all beautifully brought out. The Faset is a very nice, understated Barbaresco. It is a pleasure to taste it today." Vinous

"Aromas of rose, cherry and red licorice lead off, picking up flavors of wild herbs, anise and iron as this red builds to the lingering finish. Balanced and solidly structured, this extends with both fruit and savory elements, showing prodigious length and intensity." Wine Spectator

Poggio Antico's noble new addition to the portfolio makes its debut in the very first vintage with the typical class of the winery: precise and with great personality, it shows a lively fruit of outstanding quality, reminiscent of black plums, blackberries, pressed blueberries, plums, wild myrtle, milk chocolate, roasted hazelnuts and a light vanilla note. Citrus undertones and an elegant acid wire slim down the extract sweetness in the best possible way. Full-bodied on the palate, very well polished tannins and a solid, powerful finish that shows both muscle and relaxation. The grapes come from the small vineyard of the same name at over 550 metres above sea level. SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep ruby red colour. Spicy, mineral and a little salty on the nose, still a little closed in the fruit. Lots of cherry with a hint of cassis on the nose, wrapped in fine oak. Lots of tactile, gravelly tannins that still need to settle. Lots of everything, including potential." Jancis Robinson

"Aromas and flavours of juniper, wild thyme, sage and sweet spices complement the cherry and raspberry fruit in this tasty version. Harmonious and firmly structured, with iron and sanguine accents in the aftertaste. This red wine will become even more expressive with air, so decant it now or wait a few more years." Wine Spectator

"The nose is compellingly fruit-forward, with aromas of passionfruit, dried cherry, strawberry jam and blood orange, along with savory pepper and wild fennel notes for balance. The palate brings more red fruit and citrus, plus tangy, savory notes of metal, earth and black coffee, while acid burns through solid, dense tannins. Electric and alive." Wine Enthusiast

"Beautiful flavours of berries, meat, bark and earth. Medium to full-bodied with round but fine tannins that offer a velvety texture and a long, lingering finish at all levels." James Suckling

"Fragrant and expressive on the nose: wild herbs, pine needles, a hint of Mediterranean scrub, juniper and lavender. Soft and juicy, supple and agile in the mouth, dazzlingly fresh. The tannins and acidity are slightly taut and tense - both steer the wine in a fairly straight line at the moment, but there is outstanding depth, a layering of elements and a long, fresh finish with a cool lift. Cherries, cranberries, some bloody orange and almost peach stone with a gritty underbelly offering wet stones. Grippy and intense, yet restrained and supple." Decanter

Barolo Pira is a great, complex wine that has enormous depth and many nuances that open up further with time. It is light-footed yet wonderfully profound and has so much to offer. Cherry, sweet red cherry, spice, orange peel, menthol and spice fill out the layers effortlessly. Young Barolo tannins are present, but the fruit is rich enough to keep things in balance. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red colour. Barolo Pira oscillates between fresh fruit and mild spices. Grown on 25-60 year old vines, the flawless cherry fruit is illuminated by ethereal top notes, roasted almonds and juniper berries alternate with rosemary, sour cherries and sloes. The nose continues to unfurl with increasing aeration and changes like a kaleidoscope. On the palate, the ripe tannins take over and lay the velvety foundation on which the fruit parades, flowing straight and transparently across the palate with oriental flavours. Notes of sandalwood, juniper and incense are underpinned by fine cherry notes, the precisely crafted acid nerve is perfectly encased by the tightly meshed tannin and lends it freshness and drinkability. A wine of uncomplicated distinction with superb length. Please get the large glasses out of the cupboard. Timely decanting is highly recommended." Sebastian Bordthäuser (Sommelier und Wein-Journalist)

"The Barolo Pira 2018 is bright, concentrated and linear. A little light and nervous, like the wines in this vintage, but also expressive. Tobacco, cedar, mint, dried flowers and camomile adorn this taut, nervous Barolo Pira. This is a particularly ethereal Barolo. It is very beautiful and has a lot of power." Vinous

"There's viscosity to this red, despite its nimble profile, along with detail, harmony and length, showing precise flavors of rose petal, cherry, currant, licorice, sandalwood and graphite focused by vivid acidity, while refined tannins lurk underneath." Wine Spectator

The fruit for this exceptional Brunello, produced only in the very best years, comes from a five-hectare vineyard in the northern part of the appellation and there are then just 1,500 bottles of it. Very fluid and graceful bouquet, incredibly deep and complex, with sweet extract, great richness and finest wood, almost impenetrable. Full-bodied and fine at the same time on the palate, with freshness, great structure and a precise focus on dark fruits, pressed rose petals, graphite, smoked spices and hints of savoury smoked meat. Eternally long and fine-mineral finish with a slightly salty note. The essence of Sangiovese with the best possible harmony of elegance and complexity. SUPERIORE.DE

"Shiny, rich ruby. Opens with notes of smoke, then lots of dark fruit, wild raspberries and blackberries, some liquorice in the background. Full and substantial in the attack and course, presents itself with powerful tannins, powerful depth, firm pressure in the final, can still be stored for a long time." Falstaff

"Paying homage to founder Pacenti Siro, PS is sourced from a 1.5-hectare plot which he planted in the early 1970s. Suitably restrained, it takes its time to open. Initial roasted, grilled notes speak to ageing in 100% new French oak barriques, but there is plenty more as it unfolds: sage, fennel and fragrant florals poke through. The palate is polished, sophisticated and buoyed by racy Sangiovese acidity. The tannins are chalky, almost clayey, as they cling to the palate, and it finishes with a stony, mineral-like sensation. Give this a few years for the tannins and oak to mellow and merge." Decanter

"There's beauty here, no doubt, but the stylistic preference for 100% new oak on Sangiovese is forever controversial and debatable. The wine's appearance is almost impenetrable, and the bouquet is well-integrated with black fruit, spice and balsam notes." Wine Advocate

"The purity of fruit here is so stunning with blackberry, black-cherry, black-truffle and floral aromas, as well as orange peel. It's full-bodied and very compact with ultra fine tannins that are copious and balanced. It goes on for such a long time. The purity and precision is something else, not to mention the length and depth. So delicious now and a joy to taste." James Suckling

Roagna's Barbaresco Pajè already has a great need to communicate in its youth and shows itself to be open-minded and with multi-layered flavours, full-bodied and harmoniously balanced. An extraordinary pleasure for the next 20 years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red in colour. Pajè unleashes itself in unerring volleys of raspberries and sour cherries as well as laurels and walnut shells, its shimmering, ethereal top note reminiscent of tarmac roads on the midsummer horizon. Mild spices such as cloves, black pepper and dried cherries are a recurring theme, like the title melody of a monumental soundtrack. Mercilessly dry on the palate with a beguiling extract sweetness. Grown on vines over 80 years old, the fruit and spice notes on the nose are accurately reflected on the palate and are encased in ripe, tightly woven tannins like Kevlar. Complex and multi-layered, it flows over the palate with a silky feel, almost floating, and its fruity, ethereal finish is almost weightless with an extra-long aftertaste. Large glasses and time are the weapons of choice." Sebastian Bordthäuser (Sommelier und Wein-Journalist)

"Sparkling, medium-dense ruby-garnet colour. Finely characterised nose with notes of dried rose petals, strawberry and wild raspberry, some plum. Fills the palate full, finely sweet fruit with great melting, opens with present, savoury tannin, full-bodied and with firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"The Barbaresco Pajè 2018 is a brooding, introverted wine. Mineral and spicy notes dominate, while the fruit remains in the background. The Pajè has developed wonderfully since my first tasting a few months ago. The flavours in particular are very expressive. Like all the 2018s here, the Pajè is a Barbaresco of unobtrusive complexity. It will be interesting to see whether the lively tannins give way a little." Vinous

"Fresh, lively and straightforward in profile, even racy, this red wine shows flavours of strawberries, cherries, hibiscus, iron and cut hay, with a lively structure, fine harmony and a long, fruity and mineral finish." Wine Spectator

On the nose, dark fruits, spices, tar and lots of tangy liquorice with a hint of aniseed. On the palate, these aromas join together with a tightly woven forest berry fruit to form a fresh, juicy overall package whose harmony and complexity surprise us even at a young age. The tannins are tightly woven, with a few years of bottle maturity they will recede in favour of elegance and depth. SUPERIORE.DE

"A fine and pretty Barolo with plenty of strawberry and mushroom character. White truffle, too. It’s medium-to full-bodied and creamy with medium, round tannins. Delicious now and will improve nicely." James Suckling

Gallina comes from a steep, sandy vineyard, similar to the Asili site, but with less limestone, which gives it more roundness and fullness. Full bouquet of sweet tobacco, cedar wood, liquorice and dried herbs. A soft, sweet, red fruit combines with the typical Roagna austerity in an exciting way on the palate to create an impressive complexity and length. It will only reveal its true elegance in a few years' time. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Barbaresco Gallina 2018 is a very nice wine in this range. Tobacco, kirsch, mint, orange peel, red fruit, spice cake and mint give it an exotic flair. Time in the glass brings out the wine's inner perfume and sweetness. This is a beautiful and inviting wine that expresses the ethereal side of the year well." Vinous

"Balsamic elements of eucalyptus, juniper and rosemary mingle with cherry and raspberry in this intense red, which is tightly wound and dense, with assertive, dusty tannins and a long, iron-infused finish." Wine Spectator

Deep dark, almost impenetrable red colour. A whole range of ripe wild berries on the nose, delicately accompanied by nuances of tobacco, leather, cedar and lavender. The palate is also full of fruit, powerful, yet silky and elegant. Traces of dark chocolate in the endlessly long final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red colour. Noble, fragrant nose of juicy wild berries and fine precious wood, plus bread clover, milk chocolate, fine citrus fruit and light spice on the finish. On the palate, it has a noble mellowness and clear, radiant fruit, with compact, juicy tannins and great juiciness, lively, full of energy, still young, will mature magnificently." Falstaff

"The 2021 Syrah Per Sempre is a potent, tightly wound wine. Its freshness and structure are admirable, but readers should expect a wine that will require cellaring. The 2021 is far from the more bombastic early editions of Per Sempre. Savory, floral and mineral notes abound, while primary fruit lies more in the background. Oak impact has also been diminished substantially." Vinous

"The flavours of red fruits with nutmeg and cinnamon come through clearly, as well as notes of light cedar wood. It is full-bodied with a tight and concentrated palate and very, very polished tannins. They feel slightly powdery, with good tension before the long and lively finish. Better after 2027." James Suckling

"The Tua Rita 2021 Syrah Per Sempre is a beautiful wine that has tremendous richness and softness without being heavy. There are soft fruit tones that are offset by cinnamon and sweet spice. The wine is opulent, but at the same time offers an exciting tension." Wine Advocate

The Carricante grapes for this extremely rare Etna Bianco come from phylloxera-resistant (pre-phylloxera) vines from a single vineyard on the eastern slope of Etna at an altitude of 800 metres. Only a single oak barrel is filled each year, resulting in less than 2,000 bottles per vintage.

Rich golden yellow with amber-coloured accents. Complex and well-structured aroma of herbs, yellow fruit and flint. Indescribable depth on the palate with a salty note, fresh fruit and mineral persistence. The final is firm and precise, the tension is perfectly balanced and the long-lasting impression is unique! SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep straw yellow with copper-coloured reflections. Serious, concentrated but restrained bouquet with hints of exotic spices, dried apricots and cedar wood as well as a faint hint of brioche. Initially straightforward and dense, it then opens up on the palate. Viscous lemon and grapefruit with a very subtle tannin structure. The finish is characterised by citrus fruits that provide a thrill. Complex, long and needs further bottle ageing." Jancis Robinson

"Ripe, slightly honeyed dried citrus, grilled pineapple and spice on the nose, following though to a medium palate with a tight bead of dry spice and fruit. Compact, slightly challenging finish for now." James Suckling

"Made from grapes from 100 to 120 year old vines, this deep golden wine has enticing aromas of lychee, Spanish broom and wet stone. Round and enveloping, the elegant palate also shows depth and concentrated flavours of creamy pear, ripe yellow peach and tangy salinity alongside bright acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"Here is a wine that will keep Carricante lovers on their toes. The Pietradolce 2018 Sant'Andrea opens with a saturated golden colour and offers completely unexpected aromas of candied almonds, apricots, honey, saffron, pastry cream and so on. The complexity of the wine reveals additional layers of roasted herbs and crushed stone. Prolonged maceration on the skins is the particular style of vinification that gives Sant'Andrea its unique identity. There is a hint of dusty tannin on the finish. This wine is bottled in an edition of 1,800 bottles." Wine Advocate

"The frosted brass sheen of this profound white wine, along with tantalising aromas of sun-warmed peach skin, saffron and oyster shells, draw you into the glass where a rich palette of flavours awaits. Notes of dried apricots, white cherries, orange pits, almond shells, cloves and honeycomb are underpinned by a fine, chalky texture and pronounced acidity with a hint of Mediterranean scrub." Wine Spectator

"It's very floral and fragrant, with a structured, waxy palate that has addictive notes of grapefruit, apricot skin, baked apple, exotic spices and even a grappa/grape skin component. It's really fresh, yet rich and complex and will be rewarding for cellaring." Decanter

Deep, full red with a fine sheen. The La Morra edition from Vietti's famous Barolo family convinces with an impressive aroma of red berries, cherries, wild herbs, mint, minerals and rose petals, rounded off with a hint of blood orange. The palate is opulent, full, with fine sweetness and structure, and the multi-layered, long final is accompanied by downright aristocratic tannin. A typical Vietti cru with a lot of class. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby with a fine garnet shimmer. Exciting and complex in the nose, shows notes of cardamom, some leather, then lots of plum and raspberry. Taut and gripping tannin on the palate dominates the course, fine raspberry fruit, unfortunately a bit brittle on the final." Falstaff

"The 2017 Barolo Brunate is a powerful, brooding wine. Huge dark fruit, leather, spice, menthol and dried herbs all build in a potent Barolo that is enshrouded by tannins. The 2017 is going to need quite a bit of time in the cellar. Today, it is very much a brooding powerhouse. Dark wild cherry, licorice, tar, menthol and spice take shape in the glass, but the 2017 is clearly an infant, and an unruly one at that." Vinous

"A release of 4,981 bottles, the Vietti 2017 Barolo Brunate is beautifully rich and fleshed out, with balanced fruit weight and inner structure. The bouquet reveals tart cherry and cassis, but the Brunate also shows a more delicate side, with crushed flowers, dried violet and polished stone. The power of this cru creeps up on the palate, where you feel the tightness of its fiber and tannins. Following that delicate aromatic preface, this Barolo ultimately delivers a strong, cellar-worthy performance." Wine Advocate

"A ripe, fleshy style, offering plum, cherry, leather, menthol and iron aromas and flavors. Hints of rose and strawberry peek through as this builds to the long finish. There are formidable tannins too, yet they remain civilized and should allow this to develop nicely over time." Wine Spectator

"Beautiful, sweet fruit and perfumes on the nose with fresh flowers, such as roses. Full-bodied with fine, dusty tannins and a long, persistent finish. Very caressing. Builds on the palate at the end." James Suckling

The pure, autochthonous Nerello Mascalese from over 100-year-old (ungrafted) vines in Contrada Rampante on the northern slopes of Mount Etna at an altitude of 950 metres starts with a sparkling ruby-garnet colour and impressively adds a captivating raspberry aroma, followed by fine spicy notes (ginger, allspice, clove). Compact, dense, fully fruity, tannic on the palate, yet always extremely relaxed, elegant and supple. Traces of salt and flint on the finish. Just over 2,000 bottles of this masterpiece are produced every year. SUPERIORE.DE

"Complex bouquet of red berries and flowers, subtle spicy flavours; fresh in the mouth, the acidity and the crisp tannins are well balanced, complex final with notes of fresh rosehip tea and herbs in the final. Combines elegance and length." Vinum

"Medium ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Perfumed, concentrated, deep nose that is still a little brooding. Beautiful, supple cherry and raspberry fruit with fine tannins and savoury notes that cling to the palate. Bright acidity that combines with the concentrated ripe fruit on the finish without losing any of its power." Jancis Robinson

"The Etna Rosso Barbagalli 2018 opens with a spicy bouquet that combines dusty flowers and cloves with dried orange peel, incense and redcurrants. On the palate, it is surprisingly energetic and lively, yet complex. The zesty acidity enlivens the tart wild berries and savoury spices. A saturation of salty minerals accumulates towards the end. The 2018 finishes long yet inward, like a black hole of liquorice, violets and plums, framed by fine tannins that linger on the palate. The Barbagalli is a complete success for the vintage that fans of Pietradolce should not miss. This is the Etna Rosso of a Barolo lover." Vinous

"Michele Faro's top red wine is the Pietradolce 2018 Etna Rosso Barbagalli, whose fruit comes from a breathtaking amphitheatre of tangled old vines, each with its own shape and form. This vineyard is a sight to behold and I recommend a visit to this special place. In summer, the ashy volcanic soil feels like fine powder. Black lava stone walls border this small cru. This vintage is tart and fresh, with lots of sour cherry and a hint of wild herbs reminiscent of the wild fennel that grows in spring. Caper blossom, candied orange and violets can also be detected. Only 2,500 bottles were produced from this vineyard." Wine Advocate

"Seductively fragrant, this beautiful red wine offers tantalising aromas of blue flowers, crushed mint, wild berries and wet stone. The elegant, vibrant palate captivates with finesse and racy tension, with ripe Marasca cherries, raspberry compote, star anise and tangy flint notes accompanied by supple, polished tannins. The lively acidity provides balance and, together with the mineral notes, gives the wine plenty of energy." Wine Enthusiast

"Lots of aromas of pumice, smoke, dried meat and dried cherries, which fade into a full body with lively acidity and chewy tannins. Dense, needs another two or three years to open up. Made from old vines: 80 to 100 years old." James Suckling

"Its incredible perfume of wild red fruits, potpourri and violets, earth, black pepper and a dusty library character from the wood leads to a charming wine full of fleshy and juicy pomegranate and orange peel, followed by a certain complexity of cigar tobacco. Well-structured and yet so generous, despite the difficult vintage with high humidity and rain at harvest time. 2,000 bottles produced. A top recommendation." Decanter

Barolo Lazzarito impresses every year with its precision and class - two qualities not often found in the Nebbiolo of the Serralunga area. Iron, smoke and white pepper flow into the nose, in the glass these impressions are prolonged by a hint of pomegranate, red cherry jam, wild flowers and blood orange. Vietti's Lazzarito always stands for power and finesse and has been in no way inferior to its "colleagues" from Ravera and Rocche for quite some time. SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful, bright ruby garnet. Opens in the nose with distinct earthy notes of leather, some tar and truffle, behind it fine blackberry, discreet hazelnut note. Gripping, very intense tannin, a lot of pressure on the palate, but also a very high proportion of harsh, drying components, put it away and forget it for the next ten years." Falstaff

"A release of 8,760 bottles, the Vietti 2017 Barolo Lazzarito draws its fruit from Serralunga d'Alba and reveals a luminous garnet color. Compared to some of the others in this portfolio, the wine takes a little longer to open and express itself. It does, however, unfold to dark cherry, redcurrant, grilled herb, iron ore and candied orange peel. You need to give your glass a few extra vigorous swirls. Those rusty mineral notes build in intensity and drive the wine's medium-long finish." Wine Advocate

"A taut, structured Barolo, offering aromas and flavors of plum and cherry fruit shaded by accents of tobacco, iron, green tea and leafy underbrush. This is firm and gains power on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"Vietti owns two hectares in Lazzarito, a stunning amphitheatre facing southwest on clay-limestone soil. Planted to about 4,500 plants per hectare, the vines here have an average age of 38 years. Sweet, filigreed notes of cinnamon, strawberry candy and violet unfold in the glass. The attack is polished, with ripe, crunchy tannins. The austerity of Serralunga here becomes density and volume, kept lively by lifted acidity and finishing with liquorice root and cinnamon. Perfect balance and great elegance. This will develop more complexity with ageing." Decanter

"Vietti's 2017 Barolo Lazzarito is absolutely gorgeous. Whatever the challenges of the growing season, they appear to have been no problem here. More than anything else, the Lazzarito impresses with its magnificent depth and stature. Super-ripe red fruit, white pepper, mint, tobacco, cured meat, spice and rose petal open gradually with time in the glass. I would not be in a rush to open bottles anytime soon. The Lazzarito has been one of the most improved wines at Vietti for a number of years. The 2017 is so captivating." Vinous

"This is very chewy and powerful with lots of velvety tannins that are firm and intense. It’s full and flavorful with strawberries and tar. Bark undertones. Flavorful finish. Needs time to soften." James Suckling

Vietti's Ravera is one of the very big stars of Piedmont in its precision and structure. Rose petals, chalk, pepper and a hint of pomegranate make this Barolo one of the most sought-after in the appellation every year. With a little ageing, the strong tannins give way to an elegant impression that does not deviate one millimetre from the coveted style of this great vineyard. A monument of Barolo, which only a few other winemakers in Piedmont besides Vietti and also Giacosa bottle with such consistency! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, lightening ruby with a light rim. The nose presents itself with notes of raspberries and blackberries, then some cardamom, dark rose petal. Dense and full-bodied in the attack and course, shows lots of grippy tannin that builds up for a long time, entwined with fine sweet melting, long finish." Falstaff

"With fruit from Novello, the Vietti 2017 Barolo Ravera is immediately expressive and articulate. The message it communicates is one of elegance and finesse, and the mouthfeel is especially important to this bottle. A silky, almost glossy sheen sets up aromas of cassis, blueberry, wild cherry and crushed stone. These various elements literally glide or skate together in seamless harmony. This was a release of 7,560 bottles." Wine Advocate

"Broad and saturated with cherry, black currant and plum flavors, this red is expansive and yet well defined. The ripe fruit is offset by nervous tannins, leaving a resonant, energetic feel on the lengthy finish. Eucalyptus, iron and tobacco notes add detail." Wine Spectator

"The 2017 Barolo Ravera is a powerhouse. My impression is that the 2017 is going to develop into something truly special. It has all the energy that makes this site so distinctive, but with an extra kick of fruit density and a whole range of exotic aromatics that make for a truly drop dead gorgeous wine. Bright red/purplish fruit, rose petal, chalk and white pepper build into a finish laced with searing intensity. This is such and impressive wine." Vinous

"Dried strawberry and citrus rind, as well as subtle undertones of smoke and dried flowers. Full-bodied, yet so tight and composed with freshness and lightness, yet power, too. Long finish. This really needs time to open. Classic style." James Suckling

Marilisa and Franco Allegrini dedicated this single-varietal Cabernet Franc from their own vineyards on Via Bolgherese to their eldest brother Walter, who passed away in 2003. The 2015 vintage marked the beginning of an even more radical focus on the terroir and the quality of the grapes. Since then, a third fewer bottles have been filled each year, resulting in a Bolgheri Superiore from the estate's own grapes from the Bolgheri core zone that is hard to beat in terms of elegance and character. Compact and elegant Cabernet Franc with a fine tobacco note, ripe blackcurrant flavours, some pepper and eucalyptus, plus slightly earthy tones. Dense fruit and polished tannins on the palate, clear, rich final. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Poggio al Tesoro 2019 Bolgheri Superiore Dedicato A Walter has oak-accented flavours of popcorn and caramel on toasted nuts, dried fruit, baked plums and baking chocolate. There's a lot going on in the mouthfeel and on the palate. These oak-accented tones are very pleasing given the richness and texture that this wine handles so well." Wine Advocate

"Lavender and toasty oak aromas lead off, with flavors of black currant, blackberry, iron and leafy bell pepper. This red is lithe and complex, driven by vibrant acidity, with fine harmony, varietal expression and length." Wine Spectator

"The Bolgheri Superiore Dedicato a Walter 2019 is great. Here, the extracted style works well to bring out the essence of the Cabernet Franc. Dark fruit, leather, smoke, chocolate, tobacco and cloves give the 2019 an impressive depth. Although it is very intense, the 2019 is by no means over the top. It offers great depth and intensity, with all elements very well balanced." Vinous

"The nose is a light lunch on a rocky beach, where the dusty stones contrast with the spiciness of bresaola and the richness of the sweet chilli jam. The jam spreads across the palate, but the meatiness isn't lost either, before a crackle of black pepper introduces a lingering finish." Wine Enthusiast

"Cabernet Franc in purezza, which impressively demonstrates how well the terroir is suited to this grape variety: Intriguing cherry-bitter chocolate bouquet, tinged with spicy notes; the attack is powerful, the fine-grained tannins and acidity in balance, elegant finish with plenty of fruit and noble character." Vinum

"Beautiful fruit and freshness with a brightness and energy that lifts the wine. It is medium to full-bodied with a bright and juicy palate. Blackcurrant and yellow pepper with some orange blossom. It is bright and fluid in an intriguing way. It's drinkable, but it will only get better with time." James Suckling

LUX VITIS 2016 is the second and small-batch vintage of an exceptional, great wine. It comes from Cabernet Sauvignon vines over 12 years old and contains a small amount of Sangiovese. Deep dark ruby red, the bouquet has gingerbread spice, ripe black cherry and some smoke. On the palate it convinces compact and precise and clearly shows origin and grape variety. LUX VITIS will reveal its true treasure only with the years of maturity - the precise and outstanding 2016 vintage gives it fullness, subtle sweetness and concentration and in addition a freshness that will carry it into a long life. SUPERIORE.DE

With a few hours in the air, Albesani begins to reveal the inner sweetness and fragrance so typical of wines from this Neive vineyard. Sweet dried cherries, rose petals, kirsch, cinnamon, orange peel and sweet tobacco open up with a little coaxing. Albesani clearly has a lot to offer for those who can wait for the initially prominent tannins to soften. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2018 Barbaresco Albesani is another great wine from Roagna. Crushed red berry fruit, mint, tobacco, orange peel, spice and crushed rocks open up beautifully with a little coaxing. Deep and powerful, but also wonderfully restrained, the Albesani has a lot to offer. It is also one of the few wines from this vintage that certainly needs time." Vinous

"Round and opulent, this red features cherry, raspberry, rose, menthol, tobacco and mineral flavors. Dense and firmly structured, with superb balance and terrific length. Combines power and finesse." Wine Spectator