James Suckling

Cellole Gran Selezione impresses with its usual elegance and sophistication. Its masterfully balanced flavour profile of wild berry and blackberry with cassis, blueberry and candied rose is fantastic. On closer inspection, the wine reveals orange peel, rosemary and iron ore. It is a silky and elegant wine with some firm tannin, lots of bright fruit and a hint of crisp acidity. Undoubtedly a great wine with great potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"Walnuts, cloves, sandalwood, plums and cherry stones on the nose. It is medium-bodied, creamy and beautifully polished, with firm yet silky tannins and elegant layers of spiced fruit. Long and supple." James Suckling

"A nose that sticks on notes of blueberry, then rhubarb and juniper. Intense sip, closed on notes of undergrowth." Luca Gardini

Sparkling yellow-green. The elegant, floral-scented Sauvignon Bianco Mantele is irresistible with beautiful varietal typicity and a pleasingly slender waistline. Fine mineral notes on the palate give play, overall very juicy and fresh. SUPERIORE.DE

"Elderflower, greengage and lime aromas with a lemon tart character on the palate; fresh and crisp with a grassy finish." Decanter

"Intense bright straw yellow. In the nose gooseberry, sage and ripe stone fruit. On the palate juicy, nice freshness, round and full-bodied, salty and with a long finish." Falstaff

"Classic varietal aromas of elderflower, crushed tomato leaves and citrus come to the fore. The palate is full-bodied with juicy grapefruit, peach, dried herbs and salt, framed by racy acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"The Nals Margreid 2020 Alto Adige Sauvignon Mantele is one of the classic white wines of this winery with exotic fruit, grapefruit and fragrant pear. This pretty wine is fresh and lean, with a good sense of tension and energy. It is the winery's "classic" interpretation of the grape variety, offering a little more structure on the finish. It plays its best cards in terms of mouthfeel. The Sauvignon Blanc vines are planted near the winery and are 40 to 45 years old. They are some of the first vines planted with Guyot in South Tyrol." Wine Advocate

"A ripe and complete Sauvignon blanc with an amazing complexity of fresh herbs and a hint of passion fruit on the nose. Beautiful textural complexity on the concentrated but only moderately rich palate. Long, complex finish with stimulating herbal and mineral vitality." James Suckling

Silvia Imparato's noble Montevetrano is one of Riccardo Cotarella's first creations and certainly one of his most important to this day. Deep ruby red in colour with violet reflections. Rich aromas of dark plums, blackcurrants, cedar wood, graphite and minerals on the captivating nose. Clean, fresh, juicy and with an engaging, refined texture on the palate. The long, graceful and multi-layered finish has liquorice and violet aromas. A very promising, still young Montevetrano with a great future! SUPERIORE.DE

"From a very warm and sunny vintage, the 2020 Montevetrano is a robust, soft and full-bodied expression with concentrated and very ripe fruit. The wine starts with lots of baked blackberry and plum, then moves into sweet spice and campfire ash." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 Montevetrano is remarkably pretty, wafting up with a rose-tinged array of black cherries, exotic spices and cedar shavings, complicated by hints of balsam herbs. This is a total pleasure on the palate, velvety in texture yet lifted in feel with depths of dark red fruits and tactile mineral tones. A collection of fine tannins amasses toward the close. It finishes long and classically structured, with a pleasantly bitter tinge that puckers the cheeks and a bump of residual acidity that keeps the mouth watering for more. The 2020 is supremely elegant yet refined. It’s geared up for a long, steady evolution." Vinous

"An elegant red with a ripe, appealing dark core of blackberry compote, black plum reduction, liquorice, tea leaf and dried mint. The frame of soft tannins and supple acidity is smooth and well blended, while the finish reveals lingering notes of minerals, tobacco and ground coffee. Marvellous." Wine Spectator

"I love the nose and it reminds me of Campania with gravel, pumice, blackberries and crushed pepper. A little tar. The palate is full-bodied with polished and fine tannins that give structure to this young wine. It lingers on the palate for a very long time. Smoky and ashy on the finish. Drink it after 2025." James Suckling

Enrica and Ettore learned winemaking from none other than Giancarlo Pacenti. The grapes for this vinophile masterpiece come from a small vineyard in Castelnuovo dell'Abate. Deep, full-bodied expression with warm aromatic layers adding impressive intensity to the bouquet of dark plum, blackberry, dried cherry, liquorice, tar, black truffle and leather. Then on the palate, a beguiling extract sweetness, again very complex and resonant, in quiet unison with the characteristics of the exceptional terroir. The 36 months of very slow ageing in large oak barrels provide a wonderful harmony and a very good ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"A taut, linear version, this red features cherry, strawberry, earth and tobacco flavors, allied to a dense structure. Compact right now, with less length than many of its peers, a little aging may allow it to relax and stretch out. Best from 2025 through 2042." Wine Spectator

"The dark and alluring bouquet of the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino really keeps you at the edge of the glass, where notes of tobacco and dried flowers give way to ripe black cherries, plum and hints of cloves. It’s velvety in texture, yet there's a lift of minerals and acids here that maintains wonderful balance. Concentrated red/black berries accumulate, coating the palate in primary fruit under an air of purple inner florals. Its tannic heft sneaks up on you, previously masked by the 2016’s youthful intensity. There’s so much going on here and so much more to come after five to ten years of cellaring." Vinous

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino turns the dial up a notch in terms of intensity and power. The bouquet reveals dark fruit, dried cherry, cassis, cola, spice and rosemary essence. I can't help but notice the wide aromatic presentation and the considerable depth. There is a touch of white chocolate or bitter almond as well that is unique to this wine. Winemaking is executed in a traditional manner, with aging in large Slavonian oak casks that lasts three careful years. The vineyard site is home to schistous galestro soils, and defining mineral characteristics are carried through on the close. Only 4,700 bottles were made." Wine Advocate

"This has a ripe, polished nose with plenty of ripe plums, cedar, sandalwood and toffee. It's full-bodied with firm, drying tannins. Wait for these to integrate. Lots of dark chocolate and juicy fruit on a very long finish." James Suckling

Since summer 2023, Chianti Classico producers have been allowed to include the eleven additional geographical indications (UGA = unità geografiche aggiuntive) introduced in 2021 on the labels of the top Gran Selezione category. For Chianti Classico winegrowers, it is a logical step to produce wines that reflect the area in which they were produced as authentically as possible. And customers can thus deepen their knowledge of the relationship between the wines and their region of origin - a real added value.

As a result of extensive soil analyses, Francesco Ricasoli was able to identify three micro-vineyards, which will be vinified separately from the 2015 vintage onwards. The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione range now includes three cru sites (Colledilà, Roncicone and Ceniprimo) in addition to the famous Castello di Brolio, all of which are 100% Sangiovese. In close correspondence with their terroir, they differ in structure and flavour and impressively demonstrate the complexity of the Chanti Classico region.

The Colledilà grapes come from the soils of Monte Morello. The 7.6-hectare single-vineyard plot was planted in 2002 on very rocky soils rich in calcium, clay and organic matter. These characteristics give this wine its sharpness and concentration, which promise long ageing in the cellar.

Ripe, dark cherry fruit and blackberry flavours, followed by tar, liquorice and potting soil. A fine earthiness, cherry and plum flavours on the palate, with finely knitted and slightly sweet tannins. The dense fruit and pleasant acid wire of the Sangiovese provide the necessary freshness. Masterfully composed! SUPERIORE.DE

"Mineral with smoky cherry fruit; super juicy style with fine red fruit fullness, vertical with elegant texture, polished tannins, juicy final." Weinwisser

"Noble, shiny ruby red colour. Dark and beguiling on the nose, notes of cold smoke, rosehip, cordial cherry and marzipan, comes in many layers. Ripe, juicy fruit on the palate on a finely woven tannin structure and animating acidity, great finesse and harmony through to the very persistent finish." Falstaff

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colledilà 2021 is bright, focussed and very expressive. Reddish fruit, blood orange, mint, spices and rose petals race across the palate. This lively, nuanced Gaiole Gran Selezione has so much to offer. Once again, the Colledilà is the most charming of the Gran Seleziones in this range." Vinous

"Evocative scents of jasmine, fennel and thyme flowers unfold against a dusty, stony background. The palate is concentrated, with dark cherries and blackberries surrounded by muscular tannins with a very chalky texture. A powerful acidity unfolds on the finish. Still dense, with some wood notes to digest." Decanter

"Fresh and crisp with orange peel, cherries, raspberries and a hint of raw meat. It is medium-bodied with medium-round tannins and a juicy finish. Polished and creamy. Slightly chewy and crisp on the finish." James Suckling

"The Barone Ricasoli 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Gaiole Colledilà opens with dark fruit but, perhaps more importantly, with a slate-like mineral note that adds focus. This mineral note appears in all of these beautiful Gran Selezione wines from winemaker Francesco Ricasoli, but in the case of this bottle it lends a dark or slightly brooding personality. The finish is absolutely savoury and salty." Wine Advocate

"Packed with cherry, raspberry and pomegranate flavours, this red is also juicy and almost racy in profile, with a deep vein of mineral and peppery spice notes that intensify on the long finish. It shows excellent balance and grace, and the best is yet to come." Wine Spectator

"A monumental "Grosse Auslese", from pure Sangiovese, from chalky-marly soils, with a strong presence of Alberese. The aroma is very rich, with notes of wild plums and eucalyptus, barley candy and laurel flavours. Spicy on the palate, with fruity notes and balsamic hints." Luca Gardini

The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino (of which only 4,000 bottles were made) offers great balance and a very pretty personality, based on bright cherries, some earthiness and crushed flowers on the nose. The wine is very supple and integrated, especially in terms of its polished tannins, and there is of course a wonderfully perky spot of bright acidity at the end. A beautiful wine full of verve and grace with waves of red and black berries over its savoury and mineral core. A rich, grippy tannin accompanies the juicy final, which ends with delicate notes of almonds and roses. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Brunello di Montalcino 2018 shows a medium-dark garnet red colour with a beautiful ruby-red sheen that underlines the careful extraction of the wine, which is neither too light nor too dark. The Sangiovese, with its aromas of wild berries, cherries, blue flowers and earthy roots, is given enough room to breathe and develop. Secondary flavours of spices and tar lend it aromatic weight and complexity. The fresh acidity and taut structure complete the palate. All in all, this is a very neat and compact wine that should develop well with a short period of bottle ageing. Only 4,000 bottles were produced." Wine Advocate

"Flavours of bark, walnuts, dark berries, cigar box and roasted espresso. Full-bodied with firm tannins. Muscular structure. Dark fruity, dense and brooding at the moment." James Suckling

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino exudes a dusty and incredibly beautiful blend of red plums, dried roses, worn leather and a hint of camphor. The palate is soft and supple, elegant and seamless, with purple-coloured red fruits underscored by salty mineral notes and spice. The finish is powerful, long and structured, with primary concentration mingling with youthful grippy tannins that create a chewy feel on the final." Vinous

"This tiny winery is located in the Sesta area - the wild south-east of Montalcino. The wines of Sesta di Sopra capture the fragrant Mediterranean vegetation and generous warmth - even in 2018. Violet, plum and cinnamon scents give way to exotic forest herbs and even porcini mushroom nuances. It is one of the more voluptuous representatives of the vintage, offering lush fruit framed by firm but seductively structured tannins. An appetising minerality pervades and the lingering juiciness invites you to take another sip." Decanter

Since summer 2023, Chianti Classico producers have been allowed to include the eleven additional geographical indications (UGA = unità geografiche aggiuntive) introduced in 2021 on the labels of the top Gran Selezione category. For Chianti Classico winegrowers, it is a logical step to produce wines that reflect the area in which they were produced as authentically as possible. And customers can thus deepen their knowledge of the relationship between the wines and their region of origin - a real added value.

As a result of extensive soil analyses, Francesco Ricasoli was able to identify three micro-vineyards, which will be vinified separately from the 2015 vintage onwards. The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione range now includes three cru sites (Colledilà, Roncicone and Ceniprimo) in addition to the famous Castello di Brolio, all of which are 100% Sangiovese. In close correspondence with their terroir, they differ in structure and flavour and impressively demonstrate the complexity of the Chanti Classico region.

Cru Roncicone comes from soils with maritime deposits. It is a 10.1 hectare plot that was planted between 1998 and 2000 with a density of 6,000 plants per hectare. The soils are rich in marine fossils with sand at the top and thicker clay beneath the topsoil. Our impression of this wine is that it is the most immediate and softly structured.

Deep dark, fruity and smoky bouquet. Dark, violet-coloured fruit on the palate, paired with notes of forest floor, tobacco and a beautiful spiciness. The volume is full and deep, the tannins are very accessible even at a young age and the finish is flanked by a well-structured acidity framework, which will also ensure very good ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"At first a little unapproachable, then clear Sangiovese fruit with crisp cherries, sour cherries and earthy-tobacco nuances. Taut and vertically orientated, energetic, tightly woven, powerful style." Weinwisser

"Brilliant, rich ruby colour with a fine garnet rim. Finely characterised nose with notes of fresh dark cherries, some raspberry and blood orange, plus rich spicy components. Good tension on the palate, shows lots of juicy fruit, opens up with fine tannins, balanced and with a long finish." Falstaff

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Roncicone 2021 is a powerful, intensely mineralised wine. In this tasting, the Roncicone is not particularly open-minded, but one of the most restrained wines in the range. The harvestwill find a Gran Selezione with a lot of minerality but little energy." Vinous

"Gentle and pretty in its aromas, it is decidedly red-fruited. It offers redcurrants and raspberries with a hint of porcini mushrooms and espresso. It feels medium-bodied but fills the mouth, its long, fine, sandy tannins providing an elegant flow. Mineral with tangy acidity, it shows the juicy character of Sangiovese." Decanter

"This Chianti Classico has a fresh and tangy character with notes of oranges, cherries and sandalwood. Medium-bodied with fine tannins and a creamy finish. The tannins are very light. It is drinkable now, but it will be even better in a year or two." James Suckling

"This red wine is a little shy today, revealing a core of ripe cherry, strawberry, rose and iron flavours supported by a lively acidity. Its tannins are refined and well integrated, while the finish is very long, savoury and intense." Wine Spectator

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Gaiole Roncicone 2021 offers energy and a great sense of concentration thanks to the elegant mineral tones of crushed shells and chalk that frame a core of elegant berry fruit. In fact, marine fossils are often discovered in this 10-hectare vineyard. I love the precision and straightforwardness of the silky and lingering finish. The personality is refined and subtle." Wine Advocate

Pajé is a small vineyard near the village of Barbaresco, whose calcareous soils generally produce bright and floral wines and this wine fulfils this expectation in an impressive way, combined with an already remarkable density, which it only gradually reveals. On the nose, it shows intensity and purity, with penetrating aromas of red fruits. The attack is supple, bright but weighty and very focussed. The lively acidity lends tension and persistence to the finish. Already tantalising today, but with the unclouded prospect of further positive surprises! SUPERIORE.DE

"The Barbaresco Riserva Pajè 2019 is full of character. Strong mineral, spicy and floral notes jump out of the glass before tannin veins become noticeable on the palate. The Pajè is a powerful, young Barbaresco that will need a few more years to develop. Nevertheless, all of its characteristics are very present." Vinous

"Plenty of fruit character on the nose with dried cherries and potpourri. The tannins linger on the palate, with a medium body, refreshing acidity and warming alcohol. Focused with liquorice notes on the finish." James Suckling

"Elegant and expressive, this rose-, strawberry- and cherry-flavored red is harmonious and charming. Mineral and wild herb flavors add grace notes as the finish persists with a mix of fruit and mineral." Wine Spectator

"The Pajé always represents the lively, sparkling wine within Produttori's Riserva range. This vintage remains true to this, albeit with a slightly darker note on the nose. Aromas of crushed raspberries mingle with black cherries, fresh bay leaf and sweet spice. At first sip, your head spins with delight as wild berries, dried roses and sage quickly emerge, tamed by fine tannins and a lively acidity that acts more as a leader, inviting all to wait a little longer to show their merits." Wine Enthusiast

Poggio San Polo Brunello is a selection of the best grapes from the estate's various vineyard sites. It opens very engagingly with dark fruit, including plenty of black cherry and dark plum, optimally rounded off by a fine balsamic herbal spice and notes of white pepper. The palate has an almost perfect texture, a suppleness and silkiness that is refreshed and carried by a well-proportioned, refined Sangiovese acidity. Dark berry flavours, long, deep and with a very remarkable, slightly mineral final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium-intense, warm red colour; fruit and cassis notes; round attack, sweetness, juicy, good tannin, length." Merum

"Brilliant ruby garnet colour. Fragrant nose of Amarena cherry and raspberry syrup, reminiscent of marjoram and cocoa butter in the aftertaste. Grippy and powerful on the palate, grippy, fine-grained tannins, clear berry fruit, accompanied by sweet tobacco, vibrant, subtly bitter in the lingering final. Best decanted before drinking." Falstaff

"Medium to deep ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Balsamic nose with a hint of fresh mint, but still very closed in the fruit. Supple cherry fruit with tangy acidity and structuring, chewy tannins. Well balanced and not yet ripe." Jancis Robinson

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino excites the senses with an inviting bouquet that blends vibrant black cherries with spiced oranges, sweet roses and cedar. It is silky smooth yet energetic with a wave of mineral red berry fruit that slowly saturates. A layer of fine tannins coats the palate as it finishes classically structured, savoury and long, promising many years of positive evolution." Vinous

"The cherries come through on the nose, as does the wood. Also some Spanish cedar. Medium body. Solid fruit core and fine tannins on the finish. From organically grown grapes. Seems balanced at this stage, but will be even better in three or more years." James Suckling

"This red wine, with its bright flavours of raspberry, strawberry, boysenberry and white pepper, also shows notes of peony and a hint of wild herbs, with tremendous balance and a stony finish. Graceful, charming and ready to savour, but without haste." Wine Spectator

"Redcurrant on the nose, hints of white pepper and nuances of wild sage. Iodised on the palate, with a memory of red spices and sensations of small red fruits." Luca Gardini

Pora overwhelms with incredible complexity and a variety of aromas ranging from stone fruit, raspberries and liquorice to dried flowers, spices and white truffle. Despite all its lush fruit, the Pora has a good structural foundation. Juicy notes of dark cherries, plums, espresso, menthol and liquorice unfold in this forward, wonderfully inviting Riserva from the Produttori. The wine outdoes itself in flavours, but its lean and polished personality continues on the palate. Multi-layered, exciting and still quite youthfully austere today, it needs a few years to relax and develop. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2019 Barbaresco Riserva Pora is still a fairly tight-knit wine, certainly more so than is typical of this Barbaresco, which is often much more inviting in the early stages. Dried herbs, tobacco, cedar and earthiness give this decidedly dark Pora a remarkable savoury nuance. It has good fruit intensity and plenty of character." Vinous

"Attractive notes of redcurrants and cherries with hints of cedar, walnuts and crushed stones. Juicy with bright fruit and firm, chalky tannins. Medium to full-bodied. The finish is long-lasting and slightly viscous with notes of bitter orange." James Suckling

"Full of cherry, strawberry, rose, stone and spice flavors, this tightly knit red is both open and muscular, with refined tannins exerting themselves on the finish. Broad and intense, with plenty of energy on the finish." Wine Spectator

"Aromas of sandalwood, rosewood and plums lead the nose of this Barbaresco. As the wine develops, notes of violets and dark spices emerge. There is a certain seriousness on the palate. The dark fruits stand firm, while savoury flavours fill out the ranks. The tannins are firm but not overpowering, yet remain taut and polished." Wine Enthusiast

With tireless dedication, the Bologna family fulfils the legacy of Giacomo Bologna, who is rightly described as the father of modern Barbera d'Asti. The historic jewel of the house is the Bricco dell'Uccellone: dense and complex on the nose, with blackberry jam, mocha, liquorice and cloves on the palate. Its fine-grained tannins and excellent structure carry it with beautiful fruit and acid wire into a long-lasting finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red colour. Initially bread crust on the nose, then rich wild berry fruit, liquorice, wild berry, dark chocolate. On the palate with tightly woven tannins, clear fruit and beautiful juiciness, very drinky for 16.5% alcohol, very well balanced, long." Falstaff

"The Braida 2020 Barbera d'Asti Bricco dell'Uccellone is one of the bottles that made Italian wine history. It shows its dark and savoury side with ripe cherries, baked plums, spices, tarry smoke and campfire embers. With time, these aromas soften and reorganise, reminiscent of espresso beans or baking chocolate. The wine is very concentrated and fruit-driven." Wine Advocate

"A supple red wine with flavours of plums, blueberries, clay and toasted oak. On the finish it shows assertive tannins, but it has plenty of fruit and the long finish shows its future potential." Wine Spectator

"Notes of crushed dark berries, chocolate, cured meat and dark earth. Medium to full-bodied, juicy and fresh with tension and energy in the dark fruit. Lively acidity. Chalky and intense finish. Very attractive." James Suckling

"This historic Barbera opens with blackberry compote, spiced black plums, cedar and sweet spices. The opulent palate shows notes of preserved cherries, aniseed, cloves and cocoa, with polished and elegant tannins. The wine finishes with a lively acidity that keeps this big, bold and beautiful wine fresh with every glass." Wine Enthusiast

"Historical is Umani Ronchi's highly ambitious project, created thanks to its profound knowledge of the region and the terroir, on a small, remote plot in the historic vineyards of Montecarotto in the Castelli di Jesi Classico area. The Historical Vecchie Vigne is an extreme selection that is refined for five years (including 18 months on the fine lees) before being released onto the market - with the claim of being one of the greatest white cru in Italy and the world." Michele und Massimo Bernetti

Straw yellow in colour with light green reflections. Deep and multi-faceted on the nose, oscillating dynamically between fresh citrus notes, candle wax and floral nuances. Energetic and captivating on the palate, yet deep and almost mysterious. This top-class Verdicchio Riserva only reveals its true finesse, salinity and terrific depth and length with further aeration and tempering (approx. 12-14°C). Grandiose. SUPERIORE.DE

"A lovely, expressive white in a lush, leesy style, this is well-balanced and trimmed nicely by sleek, mouthwatering acidity. Shows flavors of creamed melon, poached peach and lemon curd, plus hints of beeswax, chamomile and warm spices that expand on the palate. A tangy streak of salinity drives the finish." Wine Spectator

"This is a serious verdicchio that should remind you of the potential of the grape. Lemon zest, fennel, minerals and a touch of beeswax. Intense, naturally concentrated and very fresh, yet sleek and textured, with edgy minerality and salinity stretching to the finish. Long and pure." James Suckling

Impressively structured Chardonnay from the Kreuth estate. The western vineyard produces a very elegant wine that impresses with its fine acidity, creamy structure and elegant interplay of flavours. Bright, radiant straw yellow in colour. Complex and balanced, with an abundance of tropical fruit, underlined by a sensual salty minerality. Long and persistent. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, intense golden yellow colour. Presents itself with fine spice on the nose, followed by fully ripe yellow peach and honeydew melon, with a mineral finish. Flows creamy and with sweet fruit over the tongue, with refreshing acidity, great harmony and finesse through to the very long finish." Falstaff

"The 2022 Chardonnay Kreuth is savoury rather than sweet, as its bouquet contains notes of dried flowers, almonds, raw dough and some ginger. It opens with a lovely inner sweetness and soft textures that introduce ripe stone fruit and sweet spices. The finish is long and fresh, leaving a slight savoury tension that leaves you wanting more." Vinous

"Delicate notes of white flowers and mountain herbs provide a subtle, savoury thread that winds through the flavours of kiwi, pear and tangerine in this vibrant white wine. Dense and finely meshed, with a rich minerality reminiscent of graphite and a slightly chalky texture. Persistent and fresh on the honeyed finish." Wine Spectator

"Grown high in the foothills of the Alps in South Tyrol, this Chardonnay shows how the warm days and cold nights produce unique wines. The wine opens with aromas of warmed peach pie, baked Fuji apples, lemon blossom and crushed stone, evolving with every moment. On the palate, it is full-bodied but has the acidity to support the ripe fruit and stone fruit flavours, leading into a creamy texture and mineral finish." Wine Enthusiast

"On the nose and palate, notes of flint and matches combined with dried apples and sliced lemons. Medium to full body with lots of slightly chewy phenolics. Concentrated and refreshing. Quite amazing." James Suckling

Caparzo's La Casa vineyard, located in an enviable position on the hill of Montosoli, has been vinified separately since 1977 and is one of the first single-vineyard bottlings in Montalcino. Like regular Brunello, La Casa has a surprising underlying acidity that gives the wine brightness and focus, the northern exposure of the parcel certainly playing a role. Fresh herbs and pomegranate contrast with nuances of sun-baked earth and incense. On the palate, the wine is very full-bodied and concentrated, with tactile tannins, yet remains fresh and flowing at all times. SUPERIORE.DE

"Even on the nose, it is much more complex and interesting than the "normal" Brunello, with ripe candied cherries, fine floral notes, violets, lavender, but also mineral and earthy notes such as iron. Very elegant and quite precise on the palate, intense and present, with wonderfully ripe tannins and sweet berries, showing origin and character with a multi-layered final and powerful Sangiovese spice." Weinwisser

"Intense, finely spiced bouquet with fresh berry flavours, also a floral component; solid texture, the tannin-acid structure in balance, polished finish on notes of stone fruit, tobacco and eucalyptus." Vinum

"Dark, bright ruby red colour. Filigree and multi-layered expression on the nose, reminiscent of raspberries and blackberries, dried tomatoes and balsamic tones. Opens up smoothly on the palate, fine-meshed, grippy tannins at the core, dark fruit, fine balsamic notes, long finish." Falstaff

"Subtle power and plenty of cherry, plum and mineral flavours in this soft red wine, plus a hint of wild herbs. It's quite fluid and open, with a slight tannic abrasion on the lingering finish." Wine Spectator

"Subtle mocha and crushed allspice emerge, then finally wild, red forest berries. The palate is more exuberant, revealing a generous core of pure, delicious raspberries infused with vanilla and liquorice. The gravelly tannins remain firmly anchored and need time to resolve. An appetising, stony finish." Decanter

"The Brunello di Montalcino Vigna La Casa 2019 comes from the hills of Montosoli, opposite the town of Montalcino. It is youthfully moody and dark in the glass, slowly evolving with violet flowers, crushed wild berries and sweet spices. Silky and supple, it swings across the palate with a juicy texture of mineral red fruits, while floral notes resonate on the inside and grippy tannins come in towards the end. The Vigna La Casa finishes long, structured and classically dry, leaving a hint of liquorice and a touch of tart orange lingering on the tongue. The future is very promising, but the 2019 will require a lot of patience." Vinous

"The Caparzo 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna La Casa offers a balanced presentation of candied cherries, dried fruit and toasted spices. This is a beautiful and joyful wine with velvety soft tannins and good internal energy that adds dimension and depth to the mouthfeel. Vigna La Casa is a contemporary expression of Montalcino with added fruit concentration and structure, and the results are carefully balanced throughout." Wine Advocate

"Flavours of blueberries, blackberries and chocolate, yet subtle and perfumed. Full-bodied with chewy tannins and plenty of structure. Shows depth and has a purpose. Needs time to develop soon. Try it after 2027." James Suckling

The vineyards of the five grape varieties are located between 350 and 800 metres above sea level and face south-west. The vines grow on dolomite, porphyry, sand and marl soils. As a young wine, Manna has golden yellow colour nuances, which turn into strong golden tones after a few years of maturation. Manna is very special: complex, multi-layered with a bouquet of elderberry, pistachio, apricot, nutmeg and delicate rose petals. Concentrated, full-bodied and at the same time elegant and complex in flavour. A racy wine that can be discovered from different perspectives as it develops, revealing its character more and more. Even the young wine changes in the glass and surprises again and again. SUPERIORE.DE

"Inviting aromas of jasmine, green apple and lime, then juicy, fresh green fruit on the palate." Decanter

"This is perfumed and so characterful with plenty of tropical and floral notes as well as a solid, mineral backbone. Pineapple, candied citrus fruit, honeysuckle, rose hips and crushed stones on the nose, following through to a medium to full body with steady acidity. Crunchy, fresh and firm. Very well made." James Suckling

Every year, the San Lorenzo is the result of the best grapes from the four classic Ama vineyards and only a few thousand bottles are sold in specialised shops and upmarket restaurants. Full bouquet of graphite, mint and black cherry. Lots of character and structure on the palate, with all the elegance that only the best Sangiovese bring to the glass. Distinctive tannins promise fantastic ageing potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, medium ruby red colour with a brightening rim. Very elegant and delicate nose of cherries, cranberries and some cedar wood, very slightly smoky. Very precise on the palate, pleasantly juicy with fine-grained tannins and great length." Falstaff

"The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Ama San Lorenzo is packed with dark red fruit, liquorice, spice, leather and graphite. This is a decidedly potent Gran Selezione. Clean mineral notes prolong the finish and hint at a brilliant future. The sculptural style is very appealing. Again, you will need to be patient, as the 2021 is still very young." Vinous

"The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione San Lorenzo takes a few moments longer to open up in the glass, but unlike the La Casuccia, which holds back, this wine comes into its own quickly enough. The flavour profile of the wine is a little fleshier and fuller, which could be related to the warm conditions of the vintage. The San Lorenzo is a generous wine and a bottle to enjoy in the medium or long term." Wine Advocate

"This wine is really perfumed and beautiful, with black cherry, blackcurrant and violets. Full-bodied, with fully integrated tannins and a palate presence that is quite spectacular. Wonderful finish. Try after 2027." James Suckling

Earthy notes on the nose, only gradually revealing ripe strawberries, spicy herbs, leather and some coffee. As it progresses, spicy orange peel, sour cherry and mint, followed by salty minerals. The lively acidity ensures that the wine remains fresh and supple despite its compact structure. The initially firm tannins gracefully envelop the pretty fruit core with further aeration, and in the long final we then discover sweet spices and traces of white pepper. SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep ruby with a rich garnet rim. Opens on the nose with emphatically ripe notes of pickled cherries and dried plums, plus lots of molasses, seems like a Brunello from days gone by. Blossoms on the palate, lots of ripe fruit, opens with hearty, grippy tannins, lots of power, delicately bitter final." Falstaff

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino captivates with dark, balsamic-tinged black cherries, plum sauce and autumnal spices. It is velvety to the core, almost opulent on the palate, with a dense wave of ripe red fruits complemented by nuances of sweet lavender and tobacco. It leaves the palate with fine tannins and a primary concentration that create a classic feel that transcends the vintage. Almost a minute passes with notes of cocoa and sweet herbs still lingering. Wonderful! Production at the Pertimali estate was down 20% due to the spring frost, and they decided to put all the juice normally destined for the Riserva into the pure Brunello, resulting in one of the top wines of the vintage." Vinous

"The nose is fruity and fizzy, like cherry cola, with roots and mixed herbs bringing a welcome savory element. The palate is sweet and juicy with cherries, but balance comes from an undertone of dark chocolate, before the nose's lightly medicinal quality emerges again. Acidity positively fizzes around powerful tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"Intense aromas of black cherries, lavender and spices, like nutmeg. Also some sandalwood and bark. Full-bodied with a solid core of fruit and tannins for the vintage. Rather viscous, suggesting that further bottle ageing is required." James Suckling

The four wines resulting from the collaboration between Dolce & Gabbana and Donnafugata show attention to detail and unconditional love for Sicily. They are the perfect expression of two top companies "Made in Italy". They represent the aesthetic fusion of craftsmanship, creativity and Sicilian passion. Together, they have created a unique collection of wines and packaging that emotionally capture Sicilian culture and lifestyle and express a clear commitment to the beauty and tradition of Sicily.

On Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe, wines of great personality are produced in a unique terroir. Due to the altitude of the vineyards, Sicilian sunshine and fresh temperatures come together here: Thanks to the strong temperature fluctuations and the extraordinary richness of the soil - lava flows of rocks, ash and debris, so-called "sciare" - the wines of this area acquire an unmistakable character. Cuordilava is made from 100% Nerello Mascalese and, after a long ageing period, presents itself with notes of red berries, spices and undergrowth. The palate is complex and deep, with flavourful tannins and a long persistence. SUPERIORE.DE

"Flavors of strawberry preserves and plumped cherry are layered with creamy tannins alongside aromatic notes of crushed pine, singed orange peel and minerally tar and stone. Medium-bodied, with a clean sweep of lively acidity, showing more mineral character on the lightly chewy finish." Wine Spectator

"Flavours of dust and plums with some stemminess come through clearly, followed by a medium body, round tannins and a creamy texture. The red fruits have an orange-coloured aftertaste." James Suckling

"This medium ruby red wine offers a nose of strawberry preserves, dates and sun-dried tomatoes. On the palate, it shows chestnuts, figs and dried oranges with firm tannins, lively acidity and a finish reminiscent of dried blood and rust. Stylish and balanced, it captivates with red fruits, vanilla oak and a hint of savoury elegance." Decanter

Brilliant ruby red colour with a slightly brightening rim. Impressive aroma of red berries, smoke, roasted almonds and dark spices. Taut, straightforward, expressive and beautifully long on the palate. With its classic understatement, Boscarelli's Nobile di Montepulciano is a wonderfully precise example of its growing region every year. SUPERIORE.DE

"Smells of small stone fruit, tobacco and blossoms; fresh attack, vivid acidity, compact structure with melting, juice and length. Convinces with its fresh and elegant style." Vinum

"Bright, sparkling ruby red with a brightening rim. Fine spice and cherry on the nose, with a woody aftertaste. Beautiful juiciness and clear, fresh fruit on the palate, compact, noble, classic in the best sense of the word, with a fine salty finish." Falstaff

"The aromas are shy and discreet, taking their time to reveal beautiful scents of cherry blossom and plum. This medium-bodied candidate offers plenty of freshness, its bright acidity and elegant sandy tannins supporting a core of ripe red cherries and blood oranges. Gracefully composed, it shows lovely balance and is one of the more immediately approachable offerings of the vintage." Decanter

"This red wine offers purity with aromas and flavours of cherry, pomegranate, earth and iron while remaining lively, supported by a dense tannic matrix. Balanced, with a finish of bitter almond, it needs a few years to integrate." Wine Spectator

"This wine has depth and seriousness with cedar, sandalwood, lavender, cherries and citrus. Medium body with fine tannins that pull on the finish. Racy and polished. Give this wine two or three years to develop." James Suckling

Deep ruby red colour. Bright, fresh and savoury aromas and flavours of blueberries, flint, coffee and fresh herbs. Long and clean with soft tannins and very good clarity on the bright finish. A beautiful, very refined wine, characterised by its early attractiveness, but also by its velvet-pawed concentration and complexity. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2019 Rivarossa, a blend of Cabernet and Merlot, takes its time to evolve in the glass. It's coy at first, with hints of dried black cherry. Swirling slowly unlocks depths of sage and exotic spice. This displays silky textures as a polished wave of red and black fruits swirls across a stream of zesty acidity. The 2019 slowly saturates the palate in youthful concentration, along with fine-grained tannins, while finishing long, structured and leaving a pleasant bitter tinge. There is potential here, yet it will require serious patience to unlock." Vinous

"Raspberry, blackcurrant bush and bark on the nose. Also some pencil. Full-bodied, but not overwhelming, with linear and polished tannins that run the length of the wine. Very solid and structured, but with a certain openness on the finish." James Suckling

Fine, silky tannins frame a core of crushed berries, flowers, liquorice and new leather. The wine's inner extract sweetness reveals itself only with time of aeration, adding harmony and class. Already today, a super-elegant and at the same time refined and open Brunello presents itself, which always remains graceful and fresh at the same time, despite all its fruit fullness. Our perspective: With increasing bottle maturity, the drinking pleasure of this first-class Sangiovese increases even more! SUPERIORE.DE

"Mid ruby. Deep savoury cherry nose with hints of pine. Racy cherry fruit on the palate with fine coating tannins. Long, vibrant and concentrated. Gorgeous length and freshness." Jancis Robinson

"Ripe, sweet plum, cherry and blackberry flavors are complemented by iron and tobacco accents in this suave red. Shows fine balance and texture, with well-integrated tannins and acidity and a long, mouthwatering finish." Wine Spectator

"A debut on the Place this year from a vintage hailed as one of the best in the last decade. Grapes come from a 30-hectare vineyard bought in 2017 by Belgian businessman Marcel van Poecke who has invested heavily in replantings and new cellar facilities. The texture and overall feel here are lovely - powerful and succulent bramble fruits fill the palate, gliding across the tongue while coffee grounds and dried herbs settle in the background giving structure and definition. This has an aerial quality with real finesse." Decanter

"This is so aromatic and floral with cedar, dried roses, and black cherries. It’s full-bodied, yet so refined and tight with silky tannins and a flavorful finish. Tight and focused. Needs time to open, but shows beautiful finesse and focus." James Suckling

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino offers a pure and classic expression of the vintage with bright fruit tones, wild cherry, toasted nut, blue flower and forest floor. Whereas the other wines in the Poggio Antico portfolio undergo aging in smaller tonneaux, this wine is aged in large Slavonian casks instead. You taste the lift and brightness of the fruit, and it's all quite lovely. Grapes are sourced across a 13-hectare site at a very high 500 meters in elevation. The name of this area is I Poggi, and the soils here are a bit lighter and rockier with both schistous galestro and limestone alberese. I love the delicate approach here, the intensity of those floral aromas, and the silky nature of the mouthfeel. This classic Brunello really stands out." Wine Advocate

"Classic Sangiovese aromas of underbrush, wild berry and new leather mingle with whiffs of camphor. Supremely elegant, the focused palate shows precision and great energy, featuring juicy red cherry, pomegranate, white pepper and black tea set against chiseled, refined tannins. Vibrant acidity keeps it balanced while a salty mineral note lingers on the close. Fantastic showing." Wine Enthusiast