James Suckling

The enterprising British merchant Benjamin, known as "Bip", founded a company after arriving in Sicily in 1806, which was instrumental in the rise of Marsala in the world. The fermentation of this fine Marsala is interrupted by the enrichment with brandy matured for at least 5 years in oak barrels. Intense golden yellow with amber reflections. Ethereal bouquet with notes of melon and honey. In the multi-layered taste, we find notes of dried apricots and stewed pears in addition to an appealing sweetness. SUPERIORE.DE

"There's plenty of dried-fig and papaya character in this luscious but balanced Marsala. Long, creamy finish with plenty of grapefruity freshness that leaves the palate cleaner than many fortified wines do." James Suckling

A Quo is the entry into the sensual world of Montepeloso. A fresh, daring wine from younger vineyards. Round and velvety, clean and fruity, this blend of five grape varieties combines the virtues of Montepeloso and Fabio Chiarelotto's high standards to the finest. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2021 A Quo is a fabulous introduction to these wines. Bright, punchy and vibrant, the 2021 offers up an exciting mix of red fruit, blood orange, rose petal, mint and cinnamon. Montepeloso's entry-level estate offering is a winner." Vinous

"The 2021 A Quo, made mainly from Sangiovese and smaller proportions of Malvasia Nera, Cabernet Sauvignon, Montepulciano, Marselan and Alicante Bouschet, offers intense scents ranging from blackberry to dark rose - like one of those deep purple flowers you see in a flower shop. It has a dense texture and a solid structure." Wine Advocate

"A firm and silky red wine with blackberry and blueberry character and a hint of cream. Medium-bodied with polished tannins and a fresh finish. Racy and refined on the finish." James Suckling

Enzo Barbi produces just 3,500 bottles of this flavoursome Sauvignon Bianco every year. It rises from the glass with a lovely freshness, while a delicate wave of lemongrass, chalk dust and sweet custard fills the senses. On the palate, it flows with silky texture and ripe, citrus-kissed orchard fruits accompanied by lively acidity. A hint of mint leaves and green peas lingers on the classically dry finish, while L'Inquisitore ends remarkably tangy and with a slight mineral bite. This extremely pretty Sauvignon Bianco from Umbria appears rather light-footed at first impression, but leaves a great impression. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright straw yellow with green reflections. Redcurrant, some kiwi and fresh herbs on the nose, reminiscent of basil and nettle. Stony on the palate, animating and mouthwatering, vibrant acidity, lots of herbal flavour on the final." Falstaff

"This is an aromatic white with herbal and earthy elements, exuding notes of pear skins, pomelos, guavas and chopped herbs. It’s full-bodied and fleshy with plenty of bite and fresh acidity to balance." James Suckling

Le Redini Rosso consists mainly of Merlot and a small proportion of Alicante. The wine opens with dark intensity and a velvety texture with lots of fresh blackberry, plum, earth and wild rose. Pure red fruit on the palate, very supple, the delicate wood note well integrated. The refined notes of a Merlot from the Conca d'Oro come across wonderfully. SUPERIORE.DE

"Fresh and pure expression of red plums, cherries, crushed strawberries, fresh mushrooms and minerals. Superficial red fruits on the medium-bodied palate with fresh tannins and fresh, crunchy plums and red cherries on the medium-long finish. Fruit-emphasised, dry and structured. There is certainly nothing superfluous here." James Suckling

"The 2021 Le Redini is a blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Alicante from a site with loose soils rich in schistose Galestro. What stands out most is the soft and gentle texture of the wine, which nestles close to the palate. There are no rough edges and the finish is characterised by dark cherries, spices and baking chocolate." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 Le Redini is a beautiful, beguiling wine composed primarily of Merlot with a dash of Alicante, a blend that is unique to the Chianti Classico estate. Le Redini is a wine with aromatic presence and nuance, presenting a compelling blend of ripe red cherries, wild herbs, mint, rose petals and cinnamon. A little new oak still needs to be integrated. Otherwise, the 2021 is a very good wine." Vinous

Deep ruby red with a beautiful sheen. On the nose some plum, black cherry with slightly animal notes. Fleshy and taut on the palate, very powerful and harmonious. Not an off-the-peg wine, but a stormy, tomboyish and gripping Cabernet with good length and a powerful finish. Not for elegance drinkers, but rather a crisp, opulent food companion that leaves nothing to be desired, especially with game dishes. Be sure to aerate it sufficiently! SUPERIORE.DE

"Very clean and clear aromas of blackcurrant and violet with sandalwood. Medium to full body with firm tannins and a fresh finish. A well made red wine." James Suckling

"This is Cabernet Franc with smaller parts of Merlot and Sangiovese in the blend. The Frank & Serafìco 2020 Frank is velvety and generous with inky black fruits, baked plum, earth and lightly toasted spice. Its easy, full-bodied style sets up this wine for a classic steak and potatoes pairing." Wine Advocate

Light straw yellow with green nuances. Warm notes of cloves and fennel, fine lychee notes. Finely marked on the palate, good play between fullness and delicacy, shows a lot of spice there as well, nice final. SUPERIORE.DE

"A fruity white wine with a beautiful nose of peaches, melon, lemongrass and honeysuckle. Ripe and creamy, with a full body and sweet, juicy tropical fruit." James Suckling

"Bright golden yellow. In the nose aromas of tropical fruit, lychee, pineapple, nutmeg and roses. On the palate, powerful, aromatic, lively, slightly warming and with a persistent finish." Falstaff

Fresh, bright ruby colour. The Syrah impresses with its intense and ripe bouquet with hints of figs, redcurrants, preserved cherries, blueberries, spices and vanilla. Velvety, elegant tannins accompany the opulent and lively structure through to the lingering final. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2020 Maroccoli, is dark and floral. In the glass, it reveals a smoky mix of grilled herbs, dried violets and crushed blackberries. It is wonderfully fresh and light, with bright wild berries and a juicy acidity that retains a fantastic energy. It finishes with a pleasantly bitter feel that tapers off with medium length and a spicy hint." Vinous

"This is rich, mellow and nicely filled with fruit, offering dark cherries, plums, mild spices and hints of cedar and nutmeg on the nose. Medium- to full-bodied with velvety, rather supple tannins and impressive volume and length. A smooth and fruity aftertaste." James Suckling

Deep ruby red with garnet-coloured reflections. Dense and intense aroma of red fruits with notes of leather, earth, spices and minerals, with a hint of vanilla and sandalwood. Full-bodied on the palate, well-defined tannins supported by a dense structure, leading to a long-lasting and very smooth final. A Bordeaux blend in a class of its own! SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2018 Burdese is a straightforward expression of Cabernet Sauvignon (70%) and Cabernet Franc (30%) that doesn't impose. The wine is soft on the palate with medium-bodied layers of ripe cherry, plum, soft earth and leather. The tannins are immediate and soft." Wine Advocate

"This Bordeaux blend shows berries, fresh herbs such as parsley and a hint of vanilla. It has a medium to full body with medium round tannins and a juicy finish. Very enjoyable now, but it will be much better in two or three years." James Suckling

"Dusty dried flowers, crushed rock, graphite and red plums form a dark, seductive bouquet when the 2018 Burdese reveals itself in the glass. The palate is lapped by soft textures contrasted by a core of tart wild berries. Mineral tones slowly saturate. A web of fine tannins lends it youthful composure, nicely balanced by a hint of sour citrus, while the 2018 tapers off for a long time and yet displays wonderful balance." Vinous

"The nose is dark and rich, yet also layered and subtle, with both heavy aromas of petrol and tar and juicier notes of blackberries, figs and dark chocolate. The figs and chocolate carry the palate, though wild herbs and bitter orange give buoyancy. Tannins are unyielding, while acid is more discreet but still perceptible." Wine Enthusiast

Deep, rich ruby colour. Impressive nose of ripe berries, ripe cherries and delicate graphite nuances. Aromatic and extremely flavoursome on the palate, with a spicy, animating arc. A true Tuscan insider tip with a great value. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich ruby red with violet reflections. Elegant aromas of garnet, blackcurrant, leather and pepper on the nose. Powerful on the palate with an animating acidity structure, fine tannins, balanced and persistent on the finish." Falstaff

"A medium-bodied red wine with notes of cherries, blackcurrants, dried herbs and baking spices. Fine tannins. Well balanced with a gentle structure that frames the palate until the lively finish." James Suckling

"The nose is metallic, salty and almost fizzy, like a can of Coke on a fishing boat, but a touch of fruit comes from a latent black cherry element. The palate deftly manages to both stick with that umami saltiness and bolster the fruit notes, while acid crackles around tannins that are polished yet dense, like magnets." Wine Enthusiast

Dievole's new Chianti Classico Casanova, just released with the debut 2020 vintage, is the result of a quest to highlight the identity characteristics of particularly suitable vineyards, leading to ever more precise expressions of Sangiovese. The Casanova grapes come from a vineyard at an altitude of about 400 metres, with an ideal south-west to south-east exposure and composed mainly of sandstone rocks Macigno del Chianti. The result is a Chianti Classico that is very immediate and direct, with a beautiful acidity to boot. It has the elegance and freshness and the bright, radiant fruit of Chianti Classico "as it used to be".

Bright, luminous ruby red. On the nose, classic aromas of the grape variety with notes of small red fruits such as cherries and sour cherries alternating with spicy notes. On the palate, it is soft, carried by a dense tannin structure and a spicy, velvety finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sour cherries, raspberries, olives and tomato leaves on the nose. Dense and tasty with medium body and still slightly chewy tannins. Rustic and light-hearted." James Suckling

"Packaged with the dark green label, this is a new submission from Dievole. The organic 2020 Chianti Classico Casanova is all Sangiovese from a site with typical sandstone soils, locally called Macigno del Chianti, that formed 30 million years ago. These conditions help to underline the aromatic finesse of Sangiovese, and indeed, this wine offers a pretty medley of wild fruits, mint and blue flower." Wine Advocate

"Infused with black cherries and blackberries, this red wine starts elegantly and firms up on the textured finish. Iron, tar and wild herbs are evident on the long, tobacco-driven finish." Wine Spectator

Medium yellow-green, intense floral and gooseberry aromas on the nose, fresh grapefruit, lime zest and basil. Full-bodied on the palate, elegant texture, fine acidity, mineral, racy and very drinkable. A Sauvignon with great varietal character. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright straw yellow with green notes. A little restrained on the nose, aniseed and sage, then some gooseberry. Blossoms beautifully on the palate, rich grapefruit, savoury and with good tension." Falstaff

"A simple, fresh and zippy sauvignon blanc that shows subtle gooseberry and green kiwi character. Elegant and fresh, with some green stone fruit in a pithy finish." James Suckling

The Morellino Riserva has a ripe and intense nose of black fruits, raspberries and notes of violets. Wonderful texture on the palate, beautiful fruit, very harmonious flavour. An extremely elegant wine, with lovely tannins and a final that combines freshness and depth. Very successful! SUPERIORE.DE

"Multifaceted nose, raspberry-scented with balsamic nuances; linear on the palate, perfectly integrated compact tannins, the acidity lively, then again a beautiful persistent fruit." Vinum

"Notes of tomato leaf, eucalyptus and laurel mingle with flavours of plum, blackberry and iron in this dense, powerful red wine. A beam of acidity drives the savoury finish, with a firm grip of tannins." Wine Spectator

"This wine is very straightforward and dense with a fine and slightly muscular structure that extends over the entire length of the wine and continues to progress. Medium-bodied, fresh and lively. Firm, structured, cool and long." James Suckling

Intense ruby red Vino Nobile Riserva with a spicy bouquet of aromas of dried fruit, cinnamon, cloves and liquorice. Smooth on the palate with a variety of nuances, beautiful fullness, structure and intensity, supple tannins. Very elegant pleasure at an excellent price. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich ruby red with a slightly brightening rim. Closed, slightly alcoholic nose, with some oxygen orange peel, plums, blueberries, black pepper behind it. Fresh and juicy on the palate with rather young tannins and a lingering finish." Falstaff

"The nose is dominated by aromas of red berries, with a subliminal hint of mushrooms and spices; the attack is compact, with robust tannins and a persistent final. Pleasing with its elegant facets and ageing potential." Vinum

"A restrained style with an intoxicating violet aroma, licorice freshness and cherry vibrancy. Polite and well-balanced on the nose as well as the palate with moderate alcohol, full body, velvety tannins and refreshing acidity. Red-cherry and licorice aftertaste." James Suckling

Light yellow-green colour, very inviting aroma of pear fruit, melon and delicate grapefruit. Juicy and powerful on the palate, the flavours are reminiscent of white fruit, racy acidity, elegant and mineral. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright straw yellow colour. Peach, hints of elderflower and camomile, pear on the nose. Full-bodied on the palate, with good pressure and lovely juiciness, finishing on fresh mint, solid." Falstaff

"A textbook Pinot Grigio if you're looking for freshness and simplicity. Green apples, star fruit and a hint of chalk follow through to a clean, crisp palate. Tangy and tangy finish. Drink now." James Suckling

"This bright white is light- to medium-bodied, with a creamy density to the well-meshed flavors of apricot and mango fruit, blood orange peel, salted almond, anise and white blossoms. Lip-smacking and vivacious through the mineral-laced finish." Wine Spectator

Dievoles Chianti Classico Petrignano is the result of the endeavour to highlight the identity characteristics of particularly suitable vineyards, leading to ever more precise expressions of Sangiovese. Petrignano is the name of a characteristic area with a soil rich in minerals and stones. At an altitude of around 330 metres, rocks protrude from the ground that are typical of the geological formation of Monte Morello. The abundance of stones, the depth of the roots and the low growth of the vines result in an expressive and lush wine from this characteristic and authentic cru site.

Intense ruby red colour. Very appealing bouquet dominated by ripe fruit, cherry and blackberry flavours. Juicy, full and rich on the palate, with flavours of blackberries and ripe fruit. Warm and velvety finish with fine and soft tannins that are very accentuated and interwoven with the fine acidity structure. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant medium ruby red with orange reflections. Lively cherry nose with some signs of development and hints of tobacco leaf and sweet spice. Flavoursome, juicy cherry fruit and crisp tannins. More energetic on the palate than on the nose, and that's where it hits the spot." Jancis Robinson

"Dark forest fruit with an earthy character offers great appeal. High acidity and tannins with very good length." Decanter

"This is a new addition to the Dievole portfolio with a cool retro-style label. The Chianti Classico Petrignano 2020 from organic farming is made from 100% Sangiovese, fermented in cement tulips and aged for 12 months in large oak barrels. The winemaking process is simple and to the point. The results show a vibrant freshness and a beautiful purity of fruit with a concentrated finish." Wine Advocate

"A supple red, imbued with a ray of cherry and strawberry fruit, with a texture that is silky at first, only to be overtaken by firm, dusty tannins. The finish reveals almond, earth and herbal notes that linger for a long time. Give it time for the two halves to come together." Wine Spectator

"A delicious, crisp red with very fine tannins and a lovely, delicate finish. Very tasty and with a creamy texture. Fresh finish." James Suckling

"From soils with a great limestone component, in particular Alberese, a pure Sangiovese with a blackberry aroma, hints of citron thyme and orange zest, then a finish with floral notes. Compact and dense palate, citrus-officinal return." Luca Gardini

Delicate, elegant Nerello Mascalese with fine aromas of red fruits and raspberries, enveloped in a pleasant citrus freshness. As the wine progresses, it develops a smoky note associated with the strong component of lava rock that characterises the volcanic soil of Etna. Lively, harmonious and full of flavour on the palate, it is a resolutely versatile wine that goes perfectly with a wide range of fish dishes, shellfish and white meats. SUPERIORE.DE

"A rich and layered Etna red with sliced dried strawberries, plums, bark, dark mushrooms and some volcanic spice. It’s medium- to full-bodied with round, chewy tannins and a savory finish. From organically grown grapes. Give this three or four years to soften." James Suckling

Light straw yellow in colour and intensely fruity with a banana, apple and citrus aroma. Beautifully aromatic and yet not too heavy in flavour, the wine shows excellent persistence. SUPERIORE.DE

"Spiced lemons and blossoms on the nose. Simple and crisp on the palate, with fresh, bright acidity and a light, crunchy finish. Drink now." James Suckling

Dievole's new Chianti Classico Catignano, just released with the debut 2020 vintage, is the result of the effort to highlight the identity characteristics of particularly suitable vineyards, leading to ever more precise expressions of Sangiovese. Catignano is a plateau at 370 metres above sea level, with vineyards of different ages and a large proportion of Alberese. The exposure is west and southeast, which means plenty of sun during the day, but also cold temperatures at night, with a good temperature range that favours the aromatic development of the grapes.

On the nose, notes of red fruits, then a tertiary complexity of tobacco leather, graphite and liquorice. Warm and juicy on the palate, with notes of ripe red fruits. A juicy, sun-drenched cru. SUPERIORE.DE

"Made with 100% organic Sangiovese, the 2020 Chianti Classico Catignano sees fruit from a plateau of vines that are fully exposed to the bright luminosity of the Tuscan sun. This wine offers more fruit weight as a result, with dark cherry aromas, wet stone and dusty mineral." Wine Advocate

"A balanced red with a perfumed nose of cherries, red currants, wafers and dried flowers. Also lemon peel. Medium-bodied with fine, firm tannins and fresh acidity. Balanced and lively with a flattering texture. A fresh and flavourful long finish." James Suckling

"A round red with aromas of cherry, raspberry, iron and tobacco. Firm and dense, also compact on the finish, but still needs time to fully develop. All the elements are there, so be patient." Wine Spectator

The Barbera d'Alba Bricco dei Merli is characterised by the balance and harmony that we also find in Elvio Cogno's other wines. Barbera can sometimes take on exaggerated flavours, but Cogno's Barbera offers a beautiful intensity of dark fruit without ever being heavy or too rich. Full of vibrant freshness and good energy as it progresses. SUPERIORE.DE

"Notes of sour cherries and redcurrants with citrus peel and floral undertones. Juicy and flavoursome with a medium body and crisp red berry character. Lively finish." James Suckling

"This Barbera lifts from the glass with fresh aromas of mixed berries, sweet spices, wild herbs and underbrush. The juicy palate gives notes of black cherries, raspberries and tea finishing with bright acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"Sparkling, medium ruby red with a slightly brightening rim. Subtle notes of ripe blackberries and plums on the nose, with a slightly leathery aftertaste of dried rose petals. Fresh and juicy on the palate, well-balanced, with a medium-long finish." Falstaff

"The Barbera d'Alba Bricco dei Merli 2021 shows a wonderfully fruity, almost juicy personality that paints an authentic portrait of this grape variety. The winemaking team at Congo has worked out its approach to elegant wines. This Barbera shows none of the exaggerations, such as acidity or too much acidity, that sometimes characterise Barbera when it is made in less capable hands." Wine Advocate