James Suckling

Deep dark Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Riserva with a beguiling aroma of dark red cherries and berries, earthy notes, grilled hazelnuts, spices and liquorice. "A mouthful of wine" in an incredibly appealing style. Spelt has remarkable concentration and outstanding length. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red colour. Nose of graphite, ripe cherries, wild berries, a hint of dried rose petal and rubber. Clear on the palate, with clear fruit and beautiful juiciness, shows compact tannins, drinks even better slightly chilled." Falstaff

"The 2020 Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Riserva Spelt is dark and earthy in the glass, with undergrowth and crushed stones giving way to black cherries and spice. This is round and silky in feel, with ripe wild berry fruits and spices that cascade throughout. Plum and medicinal blackberry linger as the 2020 tapers off long, lightly structured, yet relatively fresh. Well done." Vinous

"Very cedary on the nose at first, so give it a swirl to allow the rich red fruit and floral notes to give you a proper introduction to this full-bodied and solid red. The cedary element is present throughout, but there’s plenty of fruit to counter it. Firm tannins kick in midway and give some astringency to finish, which will smoothen with some more time in bottle." James Suckling

Castello di Semivicoli is a great Rosso from the Chieti area and Masciarelli's first red wine cuvée. The vines in the vineyards of the province of L'Aquila were planted by Gianni Masciarelli in 2003. Medium-bodied purple red. On the nose black berries and nice peppery notes with some tobacco, violets and vanilla. Powerful and silky on the palate, polished tannin and a wonderfully fruity finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"There's a lightly decadent, floral edge to the mixed berries on the nose that translates into bright berries, fresh herbs and minerals on the medium-bodied palate with lightly firm tannins and clean acidity that together spur it on." James Suckling

Mastroberardino is particularly focussed on the old Fiano grape variety. It was already cultivated by the Romans, who called it Vitis apiana because of its special attraction to bees (apis). It produces a straw-coloured, wonderfully aromatic wine with a spicy honey and nutty bouquet. The characteristic and fresh flavour is very harmonious. SUPERIORE.DE

"Lemons, white nectarines, dried flowers and a hint of fresh nuts. It shows density and creaminess, yet is fresh and tangy, with juicy acidity framing it. Medium-bodied, firm and concentrated. Spicy and savoury on the finish." James Suckling

Primo Franco is an elegant, very exquisite vintage Prosecco Superiore from the heart of the DOCG wine-growing region. Fine perlage in a clear straw yellow colour, with a very pleasant aroma of pear and sand biscuits, it literally melts on the tongue with its fine, subtle fruit sweetness and freshness. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant straw yellow with a fine perlage. Subtle nose, fine Williams pear fragrance, acacia blossom, candied banana pieces, inviting. Shows itself on the palate with great, fresh perlage, lively, pleasantly dosed in its sweetness, crisp, clean, precise, great dry." Falstaff

"A traditional Prosecco that exudes a hint of Alpine herbs, mint, nettles and aniseed. The finish is exuberant and noticeably dry. Brilliant." James Suckling

"The 2023 Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore Primo Franco tempts the senses with a burst of white smoke, bouquet garni, ground ginger and crushed yellow apples. Inside, it's elegant, soothingly round and creamy, with ripe orchard fruits and a twang of candied citrus elevated by a tinge of confectionary spice. The wine resonates on the palate while remaining perfectly fresh, as perfumed inner florals combine with sweet melon and a hint of chlorophyll. Totally unique and worth hunting down." Vinous

Generous bouquet of yellow peaches and aniseed. Ripe, yet incredibly fresh fruit on the palate, very harmonious and varied. The long final reveals a mineral note as well as a delicate hint of caramel. A very beautiful interpretation of a Greco di Tufo, you can literally taste the volcanic soil. SUPERIORE.DE

"Aromas of pears and peaches with white flowers and hints of flinty minerality. Medium-bodied, round and mouthwatering with a tangy, citrusy aftertaste. Fresh and focused." James Suckling

Classic Chianti Classico from stainless steel tanks with a rich and intense bouquet of black cherries, fresh plums, menthol and liquorice. Full-bodied but not voluminous on the palate, very typical of Sangiovese. Clearly structured, pure in texture and long. SUPERIORE.DE

"Noble, shiny ruby colour with a delicate garnet-red hue. Fine, dark nose of cherries clothed in chocolate, with a hint of clove and the scent of roses. Silky on entry, opens up nicely, fine tannins, precise fruit, fresh, persistent." Falstaff

"A hint of vanilla and nutmeg on the attack, plus a reductive flinty note. Strawberries and fleshy red cherries emerge on the palate; clean and good-natured with a cheerful juiciness and discreet tannins." Decanter

"The Chianti Classico 2022 is a beautiful, open wine that can be drunk now and over the next few years. Crushed flowers, bright red fruit, chalk, mint and rose petals are some of the notes that adorn this breezy, medium-bodied Chianti Classico from Brancaia." Vinous

"This wine is bright and full of flavours of cherries, strawberries, flowers and earth, with a hint of wild herbs. Straightforward profile that firms up on the finish with dusty tannins." Wine Spectator

"A serious, structured and delicious Chianti Classico. The nose reveals notes of spiced cherries, warm herbs and baking spices. It is medium-bodied with fine tannins. Juicy, with an attractive core of wild berries that brings energy and freshness to the mid-palate and spicy finish." James Suckling

Brilliant dark orange colour. Subtle aromas and flavours of red cherry and pink flowers, clean and fresh on the palate, very aromatic and balanced taste with a slightly salty-spicy finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"The pretty bronze color with orange-peel and lemon aromas follows through to a medium body with creamy texture and a peach and apple aftertaste." James Suckling

Rich ruby colour. Elegant cuvée with spicy aromas of black cherry, plum and white pepper as well as an earthy undertone. Clear flavour with hints of blackberry, the fruit always very fine, beautiful spice, including star anise, very rounded. Finishes with plenty of freshness, elegance and a hint of lemon zest. SUPERIORE.DE

"A juicy, fruity and easygoing red with berries, sweet spices and wet bark on the nose. Medium-bodied with velvety tannins. Refreshing and crunchy with a soft finish." James Suckling

"An elegant red that effortlessly integrates its range of flavors - including baked raspberry and plumped cherry, a fragrant hint of cured tobacco, notes of red licorice and minerally accents of iron and stone - with the tang of orange peel acidity and fine-grained tannins that trim the finish." Wine Spectator

"Dark and brooding in the glass, the 2019 Mamertino blends plum sauce with grilled herbs, sweet violets and lavender. It's silky-smooth, with a core of wild berries and plums energized by a wave of cooling acidity. It finishes with a tug of fine tannins and salty mineral tones that penetrate deeply as hints of tart cherry and bitter clove fade." Vinous

The aromas of dark cherry, plum, smoke, leather, spices and menthol are supported by wonderfully juicy blackcurrant, clove, tobacco and aniseed on the palate. The refined tannins flank the compact, very straightforward style into a long final, in which we discover fine notes of hazelnuts. An aristocratic wine! SUPERIORE.DE

"The Pecchenino 2021 Dogliani Superiore Sirì d'Jermu is a popular expression of Dolcetto that is often found in local restaurants. It is a rich and savoury wine that goes well with a pizza with spicy sausage. The wine is characterised by ripe blackberries, soft tannins and a hint of bright acidity. The presentation is simple, but perfect for a Dolcetto." Wine Advocate

"Notes of ripe and juicy dark berries with plum skins and spices, followed by a medium body with racy tannins and lively acidity. Fresh and lively with lots of energy. A little salty on the finish. Drink now." James Suckling

"This bright red is infused with violet, cherry and raspberry flavors, plus a flash of wild herbs. Firms up on the finish, where the fruit persists and a chalky sensation lingers. Shows fine balance and length." Wine Spectator

Bright ruby red colour. Fresh and fragrant of violets and rose petals. Fresh, aromatic berry fruit on the palate, very supple tannins, with a lot of fruit and grace on the finish. Very racy and cheerful at the same time. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2022 Frappato Vittoria Bell'Assai wafts up with purity, displaying an array of violets, lavender, crushed blackberries and a complicating whiff of dusty earth. Round and juicy in style, it possesses cooling acidity and crisp wild berry fruits that cascade throughout. The 2022 finishes wickedly fresh and with medium length, leaving a pleasantly crunchy, mouthwatering sensation behind on the close. The Bell'Assai would make an excellent pairing for a wide variety of cuisine." Vinous

"Candied cherries and flowers with some dried orange follow through to a medium body, with watermelon and citrus undertones." James Suckling

"The warm, floral nose shows delicate notes of roses and cherry blossom, but also tantalisingly sweet aromas of strawberries and cream. On the palate, a bitter note is emphasised by a latent earthiness, while the acidity plays around polished, firm tannins." Wine Enthusiast

Alta Mora Rosso is a blend of fruit from the Verzella, Solicchiata, Feudo di Mezzo and Guardiola vineyards, which lie between 650 and 900 metres above sea level. Light, bright garnet colour, very clear bouquet with pronounced fresh fruit notes of berries and rhubarb, elegant on the palate with well-balanced power and supple tannins; juicy, persistent and long. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, brightening ruby-garnet colour. Open, delicate bouquet of redcurrant jelly, raspberry, followed by some sweet mocha and cocoa. Round and supple on the palate, unfolds with fine-meshed tannins, juicy and stimulating to drink. Long, pleasantly acidic final." Falstaff

"The 2021 Etna Rosso is very beautiful, with a fresh blend of dried roses, black cherries and cloves. It's round and soothing in nature, with lifted textures and crisp wild berry fruit. The 2021 finishes with a nice tension and ends with lingering notes of dried strawberries and citrus." Vinous

"Intense, textured and mineral, this 2021 features dark, dusty hedgerow berries with a slightly creamy, woody background. There's good fruit sapidity and some nice balsamic herb aromatics along with good acidity." Decanter

"A bright, fresh red wine with attractive lemongrass and berry character on the nose that develops into a medium body that is well integrated with fine tannins that run the length of the wine. Firm and racy." James Suckling

The wine skilfully reflects the basic identifying characteristics of this distinctive variety in its primary stage. This Riesling renano (Rhine Riesling) smells wonderfully of honeycomb, pear, pineapple, flint and a fine hint of petroleum. Pleasantly streamlined mouthfeel with precise fruit and freshness and always the necessary complexity and seriousness. Very serious and independent with great drinking flow. SUPERIORE.DE

"This is floral with notes of lemon peel, lychee, dried rosemary and honey. Medium- to full-bodied, creamy and oily with crunchy acidity and ripe fruit character. Weighty and fat finish. Drink now." James Suckling

The Monferrato Rosso Il Bacialè is a blend of Barbera, Pinot Noir, Cabernet and Merlot. Black cherry, gravel, chocolate, liquorice and dried herbs give this powerful, lush Monferrato red wine a lot of character. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Monferrato Rosso Il Bacialè 2019 is a blend of Barbera, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. It offers a beguiling blend of Barbera fruit and the spicy notes typical of Cabernet Sauvignon. Leather, menthol, cedar wood and earthy undertones open up beautifully. This powerful, heady red wine from Monferrato is full of character." Vinous

"Dark ruby red with brightening edges. Ripe blackberries and plums as well as spicy notes and cinnamon on the nose. Medium intensity and structure on the palate, with a warm and elegant final." Falstaff

"Roasted black fruits, peppers and oak spice dominate the inviting and pleasurable aromatic profile. The lush palate exhibits a pronounced herbal character that complements notes of roasted plums, figs and an abundance of oak spice. Fine tannins and lingering licorice notes add depth." Wine Enthusiast

"Dried cherries, burnt orange peel, notes of chocolate, dried flowers and damp earth. Medium to full-bodied, compact and a little chewy with velvety tannins and juicy acidity. Intensely flavoured and long-lasting." James Suckling

Demesse Vecchie is named after the village where Olivini has its family seat. The historic part of the vineyard was home to a nunnery in the late 17th century. The addition "vecchie" promises that the grapes for this very complex Lugana come from the estate's oldest vines, some of which are over 50 years old. They are also harvested late and carefully selected, after which they are matured on the fine lees for several months.

Straw yellow with golden reflections. Orange peel, juicy peaches and hints of almond butter on the ripe nose. Full and delicately fruity on the palate, with delicate notes of vanilla and honey, some apricot and banana. A well-balanced, dry wine with a wonderful balance between fruit and acidity and by no means heavy or broad, but infinitely long. SUPERIORE.DE

"This wine from the estate's single vineyard opens with aromas of ripe pears, lemon peel and oil, citrus blossom and a hint of river stone. The round palate offers a blend of fruit, grapefruit and tangerine, followed by mouth-watering acidity and a savoury finish." Wine Enthusiast

"Chalky phenols meet an oaky touch that leads the way to a palate of spiced fruit, lanolin and melon accents. The acidity, fresh as sea spray, ensures a very good length. Very drinkable." James Suckling

The world-famous Valpolicella Superiore from Zenato, produced using the Ripasso method, is a rich wine with the best value. It is peppery, with earthy tones and gravel giving way to black cherries and savoury herbs. It reveals deep, silky textures balanced by vibrant acids, while ripe red and black fruits resonate under a hint of lavender. Zenato's Ripassa is concentrated and intense, but at the same time conveys elegance and leaves a fresh note of violet candy on the palate that lingers for a long time. SUPERIORE.DE

"An aromatic, savory streak of tarry smoke and leather offers a subtle underpinning for the rich mesh of Amarena cherry, cured tobacco, licorice and warm spices on display in this harmonious red, with supple, well-knit tannins." Wine Spectator

"An excellent Ripasso. A full-bodied wine polished by a smooth veneer of winemaking. Liquorice root, violet, clove, sassafras and dark cherry accent the oak. The sweetness is in the cherry range, but the tannic clip ensures that it is not excessive. This is a wine for those who like power and polish." James Suckling

Beautiful, single-varietal white from Carricante from Planeta's Etna Dependence. A youthful, exuberant growth full of freshness, energy and minerality. Grown under exclusive conditions on volcanic soils and at an altitude of 870 metres, this wine is an exceptional pleasure. SUPERIORE.DE

"Warm light yellow; openly fruity, pronounced, appealing; sweet, full-fruity, ripe pear, concentrated, dense, very nice." (JLF) Merum

"The 2022 Etna Bianco Contrada Taccione is seductively fresh and displays an herbaceous bouquet of lime, peach and mint. It opens with a pleasant inner sweetness, while a burst of zesty acidity enlivens the tart orchard fruit. The 2022 rejuvenates crisply, with a hint of salinity and an inner smoky sensation." Vinous

"The nose is light, fresh and gentle, with coherent but compelling aromas of citrus, yellow apple and white flowers. The palate is lemon-driven, but a hint of salt brings out a honey-nut element and a lingering apple note." Wine Enthusiast

"A bright, fragrant, mineral white wine with delicate notes of broom and pine. With flavours of nectarine, persimmon, blanched almonds and ground ginger, it shows good linear power, yet is harmonious and approachable, unfolding on the palate through the creamy finish." Wine Spectator

"A multifaceted, polished white Etna showing restrained citrus notes, stony minerality, green apples, apricots and almonds. Medium-bodied and bone-dry with a silky texture, this has crisp, long, vibrant acidity and a citrusy floral aftertaste." James Suckling

"This wine was born as a challenge. In 2004, when we started making it, ageing it in steel was against the general trend of ageing complex Soave wines in barrique. Today we are glad that we took this risk." Graziano Prà

The grapes for the Staforte come from the core zone of the Soave Classico, which is a pure expression of the mineral soil on which the vines grow. Apricot, peach and crisp golden apple mingle with notes of dried camomile and white flowers. Deep and full-bodied on the palate, very taut, with mineral finesse, fine acidity and creaminess through to a long, impressive final. SUPERIORE.DE

"White peach and peach skin flavours transition into a medium-bodied palate with minerals from gravel in the mid-palate. Crisp, fruity and mineral finish with decent length." James Suckling

"A bright, zesty white, with lively hints of grapefruit zest and milled white pepper accenting peach, lentil and mineral notes. Lingering, creamy finish." Wine Spectator

"The Soave Classico Staforte 2021 seduces with a complex bouquet that combines exotic flowers and tropical citrus fruits with crushed green apples and a hint of mint. Silky smooth yet vibrantly fresh, it floods the palate with crunchy fruit and mineral notes carried by brilliant acidity. It finishes with enormous length, perfumed and energetic, leaving a lemony concentration that slowly fades away. The Staforte 2021 is already a pleasure to drink now, but it is also suitable for medium-term cellaring." Vinous

The name Da-Di is derived from the Chinese and means earth/soil. It not only emphasises the organic cultivation of the vines, but also the subsequent ageing in 13 Tuscan terracotta amphorae. The result is a fascinatingly fresh wine that is a joy to drink from the very first sip.

Intense bouquet of cinnamon and star anise, accompanied by small red fruits such as raspberry and redcurrant. Complex, lively, almost explosive on the palate with beautifully pronounced primary flavours such as sour cherry and black cherry, accompanied by floral accents. The long finish is characterised by a freshness and delicate sweetness that can only be achieved by ageing in amphorae. SUPERIORE.DE

"White pepper, red cherries, berries and some potpourri and seashells. Slim and linear on the palate with a light to medium body rounded by firm, fresh tannins. pep, berry-oriented finish. Cheerful and brambly." James Suckling

Core Rosso impresses with a blend of dark, rich fruit, exotic spices, boulders and peppery herbs. It is unexpectedly soft and airy, with a pure display of pure plums, complemented by nuances of sage and rosy flowers that develop towards the end. A layer of fine tannin leads into the lingering final, while hints of liquorice and blackcurrant linger. Great ageing potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"A lighter expression of Aglianico, handled with aplomb. Juicy red cherry, lilac, a hint of tobacco, liquorice root and a touch of freshness. One of the better approaches to transforming this wiry variety into an earlier drinkable expression without losing integrity. Prosaic in the most delicious sense." James Suckling

Core" means "heart" in Italian dialect, and a heart-shaped drawing can be seen on the front label. The Montevetrano 2020 Core Rosso has a certain astringency of the hot vintage, but not much, with fine chalky tannins. The wine is made from 100% Aglianico and is very fruit-driven, with deep black cherries and ripe plums. It has a lovely spicy finish." Wine Advocate

"Dusty and floral, the 2020 Core Rosso wafts up with an alluring bouquet that blends cedar shavings with dried black cherries and lifting whiffs of sage. This is round and juicy in style yet still quite complex. A core of zesty acidity and hints of citrus offset depths of tart red and black fruits. The 2020 finishes long yet fresh, with rosy inner florals and notes of licorice that linger on and on." Vinous

As always, the Chianti Classico La Selvanella Riserva presents itself as an exemplary wine. Deep, dark ruby red in colour. Complex aromas of ripe plums, raspberries, candied orange zest and hints of spice harmonise perfectly. Well-articulated and rich flavour with polished tannins, full-bodied and progressive. SUPERIORE.DE

"Clear aroma of ripe black berries and rose hips with dried floral and slightly herbal aromas, a hint of leather, some dark ethereal spice, tobacco ash and hints of herbs. Ripe, clear and firm, tart-juicy fruit, present, yet quite fine tannins, some smoke and toast on the palate, a certain acid bite, dried-vegetable to herbaceous tones, good persistence. Has power, but still a certain coolness, very good, firm finish with oregano." Wein-Plus

"Bright ruby red with a subtly brightening rim. Smells of graphite, dark berry fruit and fine earthy tones on the nose. Polished on the palate, with a juicy core and a clear fruit flavour, the tannins remain subtly in the background." Falstaff

"A fragrant red with a timid nose of blue fruit, dried herbs and some crushed stones and raspberries. Tightly wound and medium- to full-bodied with tender red fruit. Very compact, with an elegant rigidity that is very appealing. Pure Sangiovese from a single vineyard in Radda in Chianti, which is one of the highest villages in Chianti Classico. This is already drinkable, but I would love to revisit it in a couple of years." James Suckling

Cerasuolo di Vittoria Classico Dorilli is named after the Dorilla vineyard from which the grapes come, which in turn is named after the nearby Dirillo river. Fine and elegant with light wood tones from the ageing process, juicy and fresh until the long final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Here is a delicious, balanced and focused cerasuolo with aromas of dark cherries, blueberries, dried herbs and mild spices following through to a medium body with fine tannins. Refined, with brightness at the center and a refreshing, pulpy finish." James Suckling

Blackberries, raspberries, tomato leaves, lemon peel and bark on the nose. Also some tar and crushed stones. Medium-bodied with fine, slightly chunky tannins. Beautiful character of rose petals. Fresh and mineral on the finish, very successful! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with violet reflections. Youthful nose of raspberry, cassis and mint, with a tobacco and smoky aftertaste. Surprisingly dense on the palate with chocolaty nuances, juicy, pleasant tannins, persistent fruit." Falstaff

"Brilliant carmine red colour. Concentrated and deep cherry nose and luscious, tangy cherry palate, with a helping of firm tannins on the finish to give grip. Immediately, a little rich and delicious. Just a tiny bit of spiciness on the finish." Jancis Robinson

"Here is an easy-drinking entry-level wine from a winery that maintains a classic approach to all of its fine wines. The Castello di Monsanto 2022 Chianti Classico offers very bright and vibrant fruit with forest-fresh raspberries and blueberries giving this wine a particularly charming profile. It shows a primary intensity with sweet fruit and without being affected by excessive ageing." Wine Advocate

"The Chianti Classico 2022 is forward, juicy and very easy to like. A burst of dark red fruit, spice, cedar and leather makes a strong statement at the start. Although the 2022 doesn't offer the nuance of most vintages, it makes up for it with its charming, inviting personality." Vinous

"Ripe and juicy, this red wine begins with flavours of cherries, raspberries and flowers, underlined by iron and wild undergrowth. It firms up on the finish and shows a pleasant astringency." Wine Spectator

"The youthful violet colour suggests a healthy dash of Colorino. Deep red cherries and wild strawberries are infused with fragrant Mediterranean herbs and a distinct note of orange blossom. The palate is richly filled with tangy, tart berries infused with light, grainy tannins that add nuance to the texture. A hint of pepper and a savoury saltiness whet the appetite." Decanter

"Fresh, racy strawberries, red cherries and a hint of pastry and pomegranates on the nose. On the palate, it is firm and expressive, with beautifully chewy tannins and a medium body. Plenty of berry fruit in its elegant, long finish. Drink now or keep." James Suckling

"A cornerstone of the Classico, a label with precise and impeccable workmanship. On the nose, red mulberry, hints of rhubarb and eucalyptus, with a touch of black pepper. The mouthfeel is intense, with ionised tannins. Closes with a hint of undergrowth and balsamic notes. Great length." Luca Gardini

Feudi's new premium Rosato San Greg flows from the glass with a beautiful blend of sweet melon and white flowers. It presents a beguiling balance of ripe stone fruit, candied citrus and a cooling acidity. The finish is of medium length and leaves a tart hint of lime and steely mineral notes. Made from 100% Aglianico, San Greg is a very sophisticated rosé and an absolute delight. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, pale pink with a sparkling centre. On the nose with notes of vanilla and some blood orange, then white pepper. Fresh on the palate, with light pressure and delicate tannins, somewhat narrow fruit, but good drinking flow." Falstaff

"A fresh and fruity rosé with strawberry and grapefruit aromas, medium body and a bright, clean and dry finish." James Suckling

Massifitti is a great white wine, without question! It is so fine and silky that you can sense beautiful ashy flint notes and crushed minerals on the finish. The Trebbiano di Soave Massifitti is soft and supple with a generous bouquet that exudes citrus, peach and honeydew melon. It shows its clear definition and dimension here, and the Tessari sisters from Suavia have created a wine in a class of its own. Vinification takes place in stainless steel with 15 months maturation on the lees. SUPERIORE.DE

"Attractive notes of ripe white peaches, sliced apples and white roses. Juicy and vivid on the palate, with bright acidity and a medium body. Clean and minerally with a crisp finish." James Suckling