James Suckling

Initially youthfully reserved, it needs to be "coaxed" to reveal its aromas of dried black cherries, mocha and cloves, underscored by a hint of fresh mint. Impressive on the palate with a blend of sweet spices, lush ripe wild berries and a silky texture balanced by lively acidity and a pleasantly bitter hint of dark chocolate towards the finish. Finishes classically dry with dramatic length and potency, leaving a layer of fine-grained tannins that saturate and promise many years of positive development. Allegrini has hit the bull's eye with this wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red with garnet reflections. Ripe fruit flavours of blackberries, cherries and plums on the nose as well as a light tobacco note and some liquorice. Sweet and juicy on the palate with lively acidity and gripping tannins, final with a spicy final." Falstaff

"An elegant red, with a supple texture and a frame of fine-grained tannins, this offers a generous core of plumped black cherry and warm fig. Shows notes of pomegranate seed, mocha, vanilla and spiced orange peel animated by bright, plum skin acidity. Long and creamy on the aromatic herb- and graphite-laced finish." Wine Spectator

"A bold interpretation of Amarone. Refined flavours of liquorice, dried cherries, camphor and menthol echo across a compact, dense mid-palate. At this early stage, the tannins feel largely derived from the oak. But they are not dull, they are mineral and refreshing. Bottle ageing will do this rich Amarone good to soothe the primary fruit and transform the wine into something much more complex. Very good." James Suckling

"Ripe black fruits with cloves, liquorice and cinnamon make for fascination and intrigue. Imposing and muscular with a burst of fine acidity and a luxurious finish." Decanter

Chianti Classico by Giovanni Manetti offers a profound, densely woven and still very youthful bouquet of dark and red berries and fine spicy notes. The dry, cherry flavour with long-lasting impressions, well-extracted tannins and the acidity typical of Sangiovese show a clearly recognisable terroir character. Very clear, straightforward, long, always fresh and juicy, with excellent strength and balance. SUPERIORE.DE

"A classic, on the palate it is polished, dense, velvety, with harmonious acidity and spicy again. All in all, the development remains to be seen." Weinwisser

"Youthful ruby red colour. Subtle but seductive bouquet of sweet red fruits with meaty notes and a hint of laurel. Lots of juice on the palate and plenty of grainy but ripe tannins, which harmonise perfectly with the juicy fruit." Jancis Robinson

"Brilliant, medium ruby red colour. Elegant on the nose with notes of coffee, cherry, underlaid with nuances of forest floor. Linear on the palate, with invigorating acidity and a very fine tannin structure, harmonious through to the exceptionally long finish." Falstaff

"The Fontodi 2020 Chianti Classico, a certified organic wine, shows dark fruits and blackberries with earthy notes of gravel, reflecting the slate soils in this area of the appellation." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 version has all the ripe dark fruit and assertive tannins that are so well balanced. Grilled meat, baked earth and thyme flirt with black plum. The youthful juiciness has the energy to carry this wine over the next eight or more years. It finishes with its characteristic bitter liquorice note." Decanter

"The Chianti Classico 2020 offers remarkable tension to balance the natural richness that is so typical of this wine. There is plenty of Panzano intensity, but less opulence than has been the norm in the past. The switch to a larger oak format and bottling four months earlier contribute to this impression. Dark red cherry, leather, spices, rose petals, dried herbs and wild flowers adorn this nuanced Chianti Classico. It will be interesting to see in which direction this bottling develops. I wouldn't open it too young." Vinous

"Rich and velvety, with flavours of black cherries, blackberries, violets and minerals. The wine is driven by lively acidity and supported by well-integrated tannins. Excellent balance and length." Wine Spectator

"Subtle flavours of sliced strawberries and cherries with some orange zest follow through to a medium body with juicy tannins and a bright and tangy finish. This wine has wonderful energy. So good now." James Suckling

Poggio ai Merli is a single-varietal Merlot that relies entirely on the terroir of central Tuscany and consistently embodies the Castellare style. Pure, clear, with refinement, elegant and free of fashionable monotony. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense, rich garnet. In the nose of delicate fragrance of ripe blackberry, some mint and a touch of oak, in the reverberation of varnish. Shows on the palate with rich pressure and gripping course, well-integrated wood supports the drink, rich and slightly salty, currently still young, should spend some more time in the bottle." Falstaff

"A juicy red with lots of ripe-fruit and citrus undertones to the smoked oak. Medium to full body, chewy tannins and a fruity finish. It’s a little disjointed now, so needs a few years to come together. But excellent potential in this pure merlot." James Suckling

"The 2018 Poggio ai Merli is stunning for the way it combines the fruit intensity of Merlot with the structure of Chianti Classico and the vibrancy of the year. What a wine. Inky blue/purplish fruit, grilled herbs, menthol, licorice, black pepper and earthy flavors all race through this deep, potent Merlot from Castellare. Even with all of its intensity, the 2018 retains striking freshness and tons of verve." Vinous

Piccolomini's most famous wine comes from a south-west-facing vineyard in the Castelnuovo dell'Abate subzone at an altitude of around 350 metres with mainly Galestro soils. Pianrosso is considered the estate's most representative vineyard and was replanted in the 1980s. The Brunello of the same name is weightier and richer than the estate's normal Brunello and also somewhat more mineral. Aromas of red berries, camphor and tobacco combine with roses in this fragrant, full-bodied red wine. The soft palate is concentrated yet elegant, with raspberry jam, cherry preserved in spirits, liquorice and coffee beans. There is also a subtle salty minerality and fine-grained tannins that bring it to a long and dramatic final. For a wine with such power, this is a wonderful symmetry. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, spicy aroma with bright red and blue fruit, redcurrant, delicate roasted notes of roasted espresso, complex and multi-faceted, beguiling with lots of ethereal spice and herbal notes, plus mineral-salty hints and floral nuances (rose petals, violet blossom). Dense, elegant palate with a fresh, juicy fruit character, cleverly arranged, skilfully framed by fine, polished, almost sweetish tannins that linger forever, with a long final with dark, ethereal, balsamic spicy notes and fine fruit." Weinwisser

"Bright, elegant ruby red colour. Restrained on the nose, still, cold smoke, burnt sage. Savoury on the palate with a rich entry and progression, polished and with creamy tannins, needs some time in the glass, then comes in several layers, powerful, rich and full-bodied, muscular and opulent, fiery." Falstaff

"Inviting bouquet of a potpourri of red forest fruits, spices and dried flowers; harmonious texture, fine-grained tannins, invigorating acidity, the long finish is extremely fruity and elegant." Vinum

"The 2020 is quite opulent, almost heavy, but not without fascination. It smells strongly of rose potpourri, cardamom, balsamic herbs and caramel. The palate is lush and full, with a strawberry compote balanced by a gentle acidity and lingering dusty tannins. This wine will appeal to those looking for a big, opulent Brunello." Decanter

"The bouquet shows aromas of dark fruits, cherry liqueur, roasted plums and sweet crème de cassis. This is a thick-grained Brunello with a soft, richly structured core. I recommend a medium-term drink." Wine Advocate

"Freshly split pine, tobacco and stone dust give way to dried strawberries and hints of mint as the 2020 Brunello di Montalcino Pianrosso slowly blossoms in the glass. Silky and serene, this wine is characterised by its cool and fresh acidity, which enlivens the core of the 2020 Brunello di Montalcino with its rich wild berry fruit. A hint of blood orange gives it further gravitas, while it finishes with a surprisingly juicy character, leaving edgy tannins and a pleasantly bitter concentration. This wild child will need cellaring to fully develop, but I'm really looking forward to tasting it again in three to five years." Vinous

"Intense and lively flavours of strawberries and raspberries, together with cola and floral notes. Also nuances of milk and mint. Shows plenty of liquorice elegance and blood orange freshness on the nose and palate with firm, velvety tannins and well-packed, brilliant acidity and a polished finish. Good aftertaste and amazing potential. Very classic." James Suckling

"Vineyard of the same name, located in the south-eastern quadrant of the appellation, vinified in stainless steel and glass cement tanks, aged in oak, notes of cornflower, then hints of rosemary and caper under salt, salty sip, with return of small fruits and officinal references." Luca Gardini

Montestefano Riserva is exquisite and harmonious from start to finish. Of the Produttori's nine great Riservas, it is the one that best conceals its tannins, as the fruit is intensely fragrant, rich and seductive. For us, it is a synthesis of Montefico, Ovello and Rabajà. Today, Montestefano gives the impression of being relatively accessible, but it will almost certainly go through a few more stages of closure before it fully opens up. The bouquet surprises us with sheer endless complexity and depth. Its silky, polished tannins give an impression of sensual elegance. Crushed meadow flowers, mint, liquorice and dark red cherries are just some of the notes that envelop the deep, long finish. Fabulous! SUPERIORE.DE

"Spicy and mineral nose. Very appetising and complex." Jancis Robinson

"Restrained, but not boring at first. Very mineral nose with peach zest, orange zest, sweet violets and vermouth-like complexity, firm tannins, medium body, crisp acidity and an extracted but classic finish." James Suckling

"The 2019 Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano is perhaps the most complete of the 2019 Riservas at this stage. It offers fine depth, plenty of tannin and an emerging inner sweetness that holds everything together. The Montestefano is a wine of stature and textural depth and my first favourite in this range." Vinous

"This aromatic red wine shows flavours of cherries, roses, white pepper, eucalyptus, iron and tobacco. Firmly built, with dense tannins and a spicy finish, this is balanced but needs time." Wine Spectator

"Powerful aromas that start with black raspberries, stewed cherries and a mix of sweet and savoury spices. Subtle floral and herbal notes add to the depth of the nose. The palate is broad and rich, with a generous helping of mixed berry jam with crushed pepper and dried herbs. The tannins are masterful with a refined nature that brings out the soul of Nebbiolo and shows how well this wine will age." Wine Enthusiast

"Rich, abundant and defined by an elegant mineral tone that gives it backbone and linearity. It boasts plenty of dark fruit at its core with a presentation that is firmly structured and tightly coiled. The wine's tannic structure is bold and powerful, requiring more bottle age." Wine Advocate

The estate's top wine, named after the owner, is the result of many years of work in the vineyard and dates back to the year 2000, when the winery began to replant many of its own plots with Sangiovese. To this day, Sergio Zingarelli pursues the goal of interpreting his existing terroir as authentically as possible. The result is the highest classification Gran Selezione, which is confirmed every year by the consortium and is only awarded to the best wines in the appellation.

Rich ruby colour. Concentrated nose of herbs, black cherry, chocolate, earthy notes and oak spice. Juicy and soft fruit on the palate, refined tannins, glides dynamically and spicy into a respectable finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, elegantly shining ruby colour. Opens on the nose on notes of black tea, incense, sage, then a little fumé, ripe cherry, wild berries. Dense, taut, very full-bodied on the palate, opens with many layers and tightly woven tannins, warm and clear fruit, with a lot of pressure on the finish." Falstaff

"Closed nose, needs air and/or time. Fragrant, clear floral nose, violets, menthol. Ripe fruit on the palate, cherry, strawberry, a little cocoa powder. Delicate, yet powerful, clearly structured. Offers great pleasure now, is fun, but has the substance for further maturation. Finishes long." Vinum

"Vibrant cherry, plum and chocolate flavours are balanced by loamy earth, sage and sanguine notes in this tasty red, which has considerable depth and intensity, though it is restrained and closed at this stage." Wine Spectator

"The Rocca delle Macìe 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Sergio Zingarelli is the top wine in this winery's portfolio. A dark and beautifully concentrated expression that shows lots of dark fruit and plums." Wine Advocate

"Beautiful sweet fruit with plums and cherries as well as some walnut and smoky character. Fine, polished tannins. It's medium to full-bodied with firm, creamy tannins and a fruity finish. Delicious now, but will improve with age." James Suckling

The Sottimano winery has five vineyard sites, with the Pajorè site near Treiso having the poorest soils of all. These wines are therefore more elegant and ripe. Pajoré is a super-classic, explosive wine, with tremendous depth and character. Although it has a lot of breadth and texture, it remains light on its feet. Lavender, mint, liquorice and purple berry fruit are beguiling and wonderfully vibrant in the glass. Pajorè is a spicy, elegant and sweet Nebbiolo that is fine yet covers the mouth well - and we are always impressed by its lovely salty mouthfeel. SUPERIORE.DE

"The strong site character comes through nicely, the earthy spice paired with juice, velvet and charming fruit can please, the sturdy tannin gives a nice frame." Weinwisser

"Lustrous mid ruby. A concentrated raspberry nose that is a little brooding. With aeration, it opens up and shows fantastic depth of fruit with touches of cinnamon bark. Juicy sweet raspberry fruit and finely ground, chewy tannins vie for attention. Really elegant and still quite youthful, so it needs more time." Jancis Robinson

"The 2019 Barbaresco Pajorè is dense and quite closed in on itself. Then again, that is Pajorè. There's terrific depth and density here, but not quite the power of some recent releases. That's not a bad thing, as the more restrained style allows the nuance to come through. This is an especially refined edition of the Pajorè. Today, the Pajorè is quite compact and a bit of a bruiser, but there's terrific fruit intensity that just needs time to blossom." Vinous

"Plenty of red fruit with cranberry and watermelon undertones. Fresh flowers, too. Full-bodied with tannins that are back-loaded and give you a punch at the end of the palate. The center-palate has bright flavors of strawberry and orange with hints of flowers. Try after 2025." James Suckling

"Truffle, red berry, rose and sandalwood aromas slowly take shape in the glass. Taut and linear, the palate reveals truffle, dried cherry, orange zest and star anise accompanied by fine-grained, rather drying tannins and fresh acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"This Barbaresco displays breadth, providing the framework for macerated cherry, plum, earth, menthol, licorice and tar flavors. Chewy in the end, with freshness and complexity. Be patient." Wine Spectator

"Here's a beautifully elegant and fine expression of Nebbiolo from Treiso. The Sottimano 2019 Barbaresco Pajoré shows an earthy personality with crushed stone and potting soil that frame a pretty core of red and purple fruits. I love the depth and complexity of this wine and the slightly more structured tannins that give this wine power and importance." Wine Advocate

"From vineyard located in Treiso, with plants of 50-60 years, a Barbaresco of great finesse. Strawberry tree on the nose, with notes of eucalyptus and white pepper, closed by hints of wild mint. Palate with iodine-brackish tannins, fruity and mentholated return." Luca Gardini

Rich straw yellow colour, rich, complex aroma with a delicate, pleasantly creamy nose and the scent of citrus and pineapple, on the other hand lots of structured spice and a hint of vanilla. The winery's white flagship brings its primary fruit to the fore with impressive intensity, but it also offers plenty of exciting complexity in a second wave of subtle flavours that testify to extreme care and precision in winemaking. The lingering finish is refined with a subtle hint of bitter almond. SUPERIORE.DE

"Smoky nose with golden fruits, then pink grapefruit on the palate, buttery notes, spiced vanilla and harmonious oak." Decanter

"Graphite and smoke underscore the persimmon, plum skin, white cherry and almond flavours in this clean, savoury white." Wine Spectator

"A classy wine with a profound and complex profile. The nose is fully focused on tension, with vibrant aromas of pink grapefruit, linden tree flowers, apricots, Mirabelle plums, green apples and toast. Oily texture with zesty, integrated acidity. It’s long, smooth, full-bodied and weighted in the finish. Candied fruit aftertaste." James Suckling

Fragrant bouquet of light blossoms, peach and tropical fruits, slight hints of honey and minerals. Supple texture on the palate, very balanced, complex and with an invigorating mineral freshness. A very rare, remarkable Tuscan Chardonnay, aged for 11 months on lees in barriques. Chardonnay Collezione Privata is a real achievement, especially for its natural ability to present the purity of the grape variety and the importance of texture in equal measure. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2021 Chardonnay Collezione Privata is a wine of unusual pedigree and depth. Lemon zest, dried pear, chamomile, white pepper and crushed rock give the 2021 a layered complexity. I particularly admire the sense of verticality in this wine." Vinous

"Bright straw yellow. Ripe white fruits with a hint of spicy oak, a touch of oatmeal and cut lemon. Focused and with a hint of orange blossom. White fruits with just a hint of oak that is very restrained. Gentle, citrusy white fruit flavours with a hint of creaminess, but the focus was clearly on maintaining freshness; something that is increasingly in demand as global warming increases. The wine is very drinkable but should become even more interesting in a few years." Jancis Robinson

"Attractive aromas of walnut, peach pit and vanilla with grilled lemon and sliced quince. Full and textured with a creamy mouthfeel. Structured and complex with nutty and mineral undertones on the finish. Rounded and long lasting final." James Suckling

"The Isole e Olena 2021 Chardonnay Collezione Privata has a very citrusy side with grapefruit and preserved lemon. These fresh aromas transition into hints of cinnamon and saffron, but the overall style is reductive in character. This is a medium-bodied white wine with a nice richness and salty, mineral notes on the finish. This Tuscan Chardonnay has a lot of character. However, the wine needs time to gain more weight and texture." Wine Advocate

"Bright, intense straw yellow with light green nuances. Opens with notes of hazelnuts and white asparagus, then pear and fresh apple. Fresh and clear on the nose, salty, opens very nicely, creates a wide range of tension, creamy on the final." Falstaff

The Vigna del Sorbo vineyard is located directly in front of the winery in the municipality of Panzano. The south-west facing vineyard with Galestro soils covers 8 hectares at an altitude of 450 metres. The Riserva was first produced in 1985 and has been labelled Gran Selezione since the 2010 vintage.

This organically grown Sangiovese from a single vineyard is characterised by its impeccable balance, purity and beautiful intensity. Fresh on the nose with aromas of red cherries and lemon thyme. Vigna del Sorbo has a pronounced fruitiness on the palate, which contrasts beautifully with the spicy and tobacco-like notes. This is closely followed by a lovely acidic note, salty tannins, great compactness and spiciness. All of this, together with the supple and delicately sweet tannins, makes this Gran Selezione an unforgettable exceptional wine full of vigour and elegance in this vintage too! SUPERIORE.DE

"Single-vineyard wine from old vines in the Conca d'Oro of Panzano: Seductive stone fruit aromas, also notes of dried roses and herbs; youthful texture, acidity and tannins in balance, the finish leaves you wanting more. Powerful yet elegant style." Vinum

"Dark, sparkling, intense ruby red colour. Spicy, savoury bouquet of ripe cherry and wild berries, with notes of leather, cayenne pepper and undergrowth. Fresh on the palate with a precise fruit centre, tightly woven tannins, with a fine spiciness on the long finish." Falstaff

"Wow. This wine is rich and decadent, with notes of cherry, orange peel, stone and terracotta as well as crushed stone and cedar. It's medium-bodied with a solid fruit core and a very long, lingering finish. Extremely structured." James Suckling

"The 2021 unfolds leisurely from a smoky layer of incense to dusty, sun-baked earth and black cherry. The palate is powerful and robust, with dense fruit, hints of clove and cedar and the purity of blackcurrant. A loamy, terracotta-like texture is accompanied by generous, chewy tannins. There's enough here for a long rest in the cellar." Decanter

"The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is an absolute stunner. Deep, complex and explosive, the 2021 captures all the magic of this year in abundance. Black cherry, lavender, mocha, spices and liquorice pour from the glass. It's a wine of statuesque beauty and elegance that almost casts a spell over you. I would not be in a hurry to drink it." Vinous

"The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Panzano Vigna del Sorbo is somewhat more delicate, even subdued, compared to its new brother, the more opulent Terrazze San Leonlino. Aromatically, the Vigna del Sorbo is a little more self-centred, but shows just enough complexity and beauty to believe in its future ageing potential. Even now, tasted so young, the wine's pedigree is evident. It is characterised by its complexity and depth. The tannins are velvety soft, and gentle mineral flavours give it a special note. The Vigna del Sorbo is one of my favourite wines from this region from 2021." Wine Advocate

Deep, dark yellow colour. Rich, almost opulent impressions of candied apricots, orange zest and traces of fine yellow flowers on the nose. Fabulously viscous texture on the palate, multi-layered, very concentrated flavour of candied fruit with a wonderfully polished sweetness. One of Italy's greatest Vin Santo with a long, persistent finish and made to last. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense aromas and flavours of brown butter, caramel, toasted walnut and dried apricot are the hallmarks of this dessert-style white wine. A balanced version with a seamless finish characterised by lively acidity is elegant overall." Wine Spectator

"The amber colour shines in the glass. Incredibly intense candied oranges, dried figs, English marmalade, vanilla and tobacco. Very toasty on the palate, with a medium to full body. Fleshy and seductive. The length is amazing, and the sweetness is balanced by a powerful, cleansing acidity." James Suckling

"The Vin Santo di Carmignano Riserva 2016 is an understated beauty that opens slowly. It seduces with a hint of sawdust and toasted almonds that fade into dried apricots, nectarines and finally a hint of cocoa. The Riserva flows more like nectar than wine on the palate, with a mix of sweet autumn spice and peach jam, all perfectly held together by lively acidity. The 2016 is surprisingly long, balanced and complex, leaving behind hints of ground ginger and burnt sugar. After almost a minute, your mouth is watering, and hints of brown butter and sweet cinnamon continue. In short, this is one of the absolute best Vin Santos I've ever had the pleasure of tasting." Vinous

"An exquisite bouquet of dried apricots, dates, figs and creamy nougat that dips into the intensely sweet, indulgent palate and perfectly contrasts the wonderful seam of cleansing acidity that shines through to the warming gingerbread finish." Decanter

Andrea Cortonesi's Brunello di Montalcino 2020 shows its best side right from the start; it is a Brunello of broodingbeauty, intensity and complexity. The nose is characterised by a generous dose of primary fruit, primarily cherry and blackberry. This is complemented by wonderfully balanced secondary flavours from the oak, reminiscent of spices, cinnamon and dark smoke. On the palate, it explodes from the starting line and delivers a steady pace throughout. Subtle notes of spice and barbecue smoke add further facets to the impressive finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with delicate rim brightening. Seductive aromas of fresh cherries, raspberries and a hint of tobacco and violets on the nose. More spice on the palate, pepper, cloves and verbena, harmonious, already well-integrated tannin structure, lingering, elegant final." Falstaff

"It starts with an abundance of lavender, cinnamon and chocolate and develops into a palate of macerated cherry and blackberry coulis. The tannins layer up but are pliable. The warming alcohol also rises. The finish is infused with Mediterranean herbs." Decanter

"A compact and fresh Brunello 2020 with the character of red cherries, plums and peaches. Medium body, fine tannins and a tangy finish. It should be given two or three years to open up and soften, but it is already crisp and fresh. Simply delicious." James Suckling

"A modern Brunello, by Andrea Cortonesi, with grapes processed with carbon dioxide in the pre-fermentation phase, then aged in a mixture of woods, between Slavonia and French oak. Olfaction that attacks on notes of red raspberry, clementine peel and cloves. Savory mouth, with memory of small fruits." Luca Gardini

"The Brunello di Montalcino 2020 is enchanting. Youthfully shy, it shows a minty freshness and a wild herbal thrust that gives way to bright cherry berry fruit accompanied by a hint of worn leather. This wine is energetic and lively, yet elegant, with crunchy wild berries and a cascade of sweet spices underscored by zesty acidity. The 2020 is tannic and powerful, but still fresh, with a finish of tart cranberry and sour citrus that shrivels the cheeks and leaves the palate wanting more. This is a wild vintage of Uccelliera's Brunello di Montalcino. It is structured for the long haul and is already a pleasure to drink." Vinous

Intense, compact, ruby red colour. An intense mixture of black raspberry, wild herbs, air-dried meat, thyme and smoke flows from the glass. Refined and lively on the palate with delicate, salty acidity and berry fruit flavours. As it progresses, a beautiful cherry centre with a hint of sweet blood orange that keeps you coming back to the glass. This is already a pure thrill for the palate, and with further bottle ageing it will reveal its full depth and sophistication. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, bright ruby red colour with a light garnet hue. On the nose, rich heart cherries and ripe plums, then cassis and slightly leathery. Sweet and fruity on the palate, with velvety tannins, juicy and drinky, long finish." Falstaff

"Rich redcurrants, baked cherries, some sweet spices and hazelnuts. Lots of juicy fruit on the medium to full-bodied palate with firm tannins and a fleshy centre. Spicy, ripe finish at the end." James Suckling

"This red is about purity and silkiness, with black currant, cherry, violet, graphite and rosemary aromas and flavors defined by vibrant acidity. Harmonious, with fine length, this is set to evolve over the next decade." Wine Spectator

"The Carmignano Il Sasso 2021 impresses with its rich bouquet of crushed plums, sage and balsamic spice. On the palate it is pure energy, silky yet supple with racy acidity and a depth of crunchy wild berries, underpinned by tactile minerals and a hint of mandarin orange. The 2021 refreshes the palate and finishes structured and long, while purple flowers and blackberry notes fade away. This super seductive Il Sasso will win many hearts." Vinous

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

Sauvignon Sanct Valentin is probably the best-known white wine from the St. Michael-Eppan winery. It has been vinified from carefully selected single vineyards at the foot of the Mendelstock since 1989. Yellow-green in colour, dense bouquet of yellow fruit, gooseberry, elderflower and ripe redcurrant, smooth on the palate with elegant, floral fullness and crisp acidity. A great and very savoury top wine and probably the most award-winning white from the internationally highly respected winegrowers' cooperative. SUPERIORE.DE

"Delicate golden yellow with green reflections. The first nose has a clear green flavour of gooseberry and green mango, with a little air clearly elderberry and spicy herbs. Slightly spicy on the palate, dominated by citrus fruits, well-integrated acidity and a balanced, medium-long finish." Falstaff

"Spicy white fruit, elegant gooseberries and sea salt. Delicious and slightly salty, with a medium body and a tactile, mealy finish. A pure, outstanding South Tyrolean Sauvignon Blanc that you can enjoy right now." James Suckling

2019 was a strong year in Montalcino and this vintage shows balance and proud character. Opens with bright cherry fruit, menthol, balsamic herbs, minerals and soft earthy tones. On the palate, mint and sage form the backdrop to bright cherry with a hint of sweet spice. It's feminine and remarkably pretty, showing red fruits with savoury minerals and inner flowers that accumulate towards the finish. The tannins are round and nuanced, classically dry but in no way fatiguing or austere. This symmetry and great length are simply fascinating. SUPERIORE.DE

"Founded by the Mazzocchi family in the 1980s, who restructured the estate and planted 3 hectares of vineyards. Since 2017, the winery has been owned by the brothers Riccardo and Renzo Cotarella, who work as Oenologist. The 2019 shows its wonderfully fragrant side. In addition to raspberries and undergrowth, there are nuances of strawberry trees that are reminiscent of the vegetation of this high-altitude location. The core consists of unadulterated red fruit. Deliciously tart redcurrants and cranberries are framed by strong, youthful tannins. I love the bite and tangy acidity in this wine." Decanter

"Lots of dark fruits with dried lavender, followed by allspice and a hint of citrus. Medium body with round and chewy tannins. Healthy and muscular." James Suckling

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino wafts from the glass with an airy, minty freshness, while dusty dried flowers, strawberries and pine shavings join in. The Brunello di Montalcino presents itself with soft textures and cool mineral notes that complement its seductively ripe red berry fruit. It retains a fabulous energy throughout. Despite its classic tannic profile and lingering tart wild berry concentration, it leaves your mouth watering. The 2019 from Le Macioche has a wonderful combination of power and purity. This winery has raised the bar with every vintage." Vinous

"This Brunello combines vivid cherry, strawberry and chocolate aromas and flavors with savory notes of eucalyptus, spice, mineral and tobacco. Solidly structured yet balanced, with fine-grained tannins shoring up the lengthy finish." Wine Spectator

Andrea Cortonesi's Brunello di Montalcino 2019 shows its best side right from the start. It combines richness, maturity and finesse to create a model of total balance. At first glance, it is dark, earthy and herbal, but with time in the glass, a massive wave of black cherries, raspberries, sage and a grounding note of undergrowth emerges. In the mouth, it coats everything it touches with a silky, cool texture that gives way to ripe red and black fruits complemented by spiced citrus, while nuances of lavender and tobacco develop. While the wine feels round and supple, fine-grained tannins slowly creep in, reminding you how young it really is. A hint of baker's chocolate, liquorice and a touch of tart blackberry resonate on the long final... SUPERIORE.DE

"Multifaceted bouquet with aromas of dark berries, leather and chocolate; the attack is full-bodied, the tannins perfectly integrated, develops full of esprit towards an extremely fruity final." Vinum

"Ripe ruby red with a brick-coloured rim. Fairly developed, ripe and brooding cherry fruit nose with hints of tobacco. The palate is much more backward but well put together, with plenty of chewy tannins that don't overpower the fruit. It's an old-school wine, and I'd wait another two years before approaching it. Very long and captivating." Jancis Robinson

"It opens with aromas reminiscent of cedar and pine forest, undergrowth and leather. The palate is full and powerful, but more square than round. A compact core of dark cherry is surrounded by chewy, generous tannins. A hint of dryness from the wood comes through. Still, this wine feels very real, and the underlying acidity provides a brightening effect." Decanter

"Perfumed and attractive with flavours of black cherries and berries, as well as lavender and rosemary flowers. Medium-bodied with firm tannins and a juicy finish. Needs to age in the bottle to mellow." James Suckling

"Dense and muscular, this red delivers a broad swath of cherry, plum and floral flavors, supplemented by iron, eucalyptus and sanguine notes. Tightens up on the finish, leaving a compact impression, yet this is persistent overall." Wine Spectator

"The Uccelliera 2019 Brunello di Montalcino offers ripe fruit, a hint of cooked blackberries and pomegranate juice. Together with oak spice and dried bay leaf, there is a hint of creaminess in the centre of the palate, reminiscent of cheese rind or matured chèvre with a crust of black pepper and thyme. This note fades, however, and the wine returns to dried cherry with a medicinal or herbal flavour. There is a lot going on. The wine needs more time in the bottle to work through the fine, chalky tannins. It's already elegant now, but it will improve." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is a profound and intense wine that shoots from the glass with a wave of autumnal spices, crushed cherries, cedar shavings and soaked plums underpinned by pine notes. This wine is highly structured, elegant and refined, with a dense wave of ripe forest fruits accompanied by vibrant acidity underscored by orange and balsamic herbs. It finishes grippy and lingering with a black hole of tension and a sweet and sour sensation that lingers on and on as crisp tannins reverberate within. The 2019 is youthfully backward today, but its balance is undeniable, especially as it has opened up over twenty-four hours. It is an absolute pleasure to taste this wine. Bury the 2019 deep in your cellar." Vinous

Pinot Blanc Sanct Valentin - a lively and powerful top wine made from grapes from single vineyards with minimal yields. Golden yellow with green reflections, velvety soft aromas of apple, melon and vanilla on the nose; complex flavour, fresh and elegant with mineral finesse and a delicately bitter finish. Good ageing and Storage potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright straw yellow with light white gold reflections. Clear, fruity, inviting nose of local fruit, clearly yellow plum and mirabelle mixed with floral accents. Juicy mouthfeel with a nutty touch and well-integrated acidity, fresh, pleasant, long finish." Falstaff

"A creamy, flavorful pinot bianco showing white fruit and a touch of sour cream. Medium- to full-bodied with a flavorful center palate and a pretty lengthy finish." James Suckling

The Nero d'Avola grapes for the very rare Sultana come from a steeply sloping, bush-shaped vineyard facing north-west. The soil here is white with a limestone matrix, rich in minerals and drainage capacity. The pronounced slope and very poor soil reinforce the pedoclimatic characteristics in which the Nero d'Avola plants find a natural habitat. It is an extreme terroir, a combination of environmental and human factors, that distinguishes the Sultana vineyard from other vineyards. The light reflected by the white soils enhances the characteristics and ultimately the quality of the grapes from the vineyard. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, bright ruby red with a slightly brightening rim. Intense aromas of cherries, raspberries and blackcurrants on the nose, accompanied by herbal flavours, cocoa and dark chocolate. Great juiciness and flow on the palate, good balance between freshness and tannins, ending with cherry fruit in the finish." Falstaff

"Deep purple in colour and significantly darker than the Vigna Guarnaschelli of the same vintage. Concentrated nose of sour cherry and raspberry with chalky notes. Juicy, lively, almost tart cherry and raspberry fruit, with a dose of grippy tannins on the finish, suggesting that this wine needs more age. Much less full-bodied than its 15% would suggest. It is currently more approachable than the Vigna Guarnaschelli." Jancis Robinson

"The nose is warm, recalling damp earth and macerated cherries, with some peppery spice. It's bold and vibrant in the mouth, with fresh and dried dark cherries and berries alongside a balsamic note, lifted floral hints, juicy acidity and fine, woody structure. The finish is persistent and fresh – with a bit of warmth – and there's no sign of jamminess despite its richness and heft." Decanter

"The Vigna Sultana 2021 is smoky in the glass, with a burst of grilled herbs, ash stones and spices giving way to black raspberry and sour citrus fruit. It's soft, supple and soothingly round with tart wild berries and savoury minerals for balance. A core of lively acidity keeps things tidy. The 2021 has a long finish and retains a lovely freshness. It leaves grippy tannins and a savoury feel under a hint of sweet violets and lavender on the finish." Vinous

"Spectacular aromas of hibiscus, lemon blossom, raspberry and red liquorice. Lots of crushed red berries. Medium body with fine, flattering tannins. Bright acidity on the finish. A triumph." James Suckling

The world-famous Gewürztraminer Nussbaumer has been a real benchmark for years and is also a convincing wine in terms of longevity. Bright yellow in colour with greenish reflections. Typically perfect, complex and deep, but also agile and fresh with beautiful nuances. A broad bouquet of rose petals, smoke and oriental spices. On the palate it flows silky smooth, velvety and spicy, lingers for a long time, great! SUPERIORE.DE

"Quite a fine, somewhat nutty, floral and herbaceous-vegetable citrus nose with pome and stone fruit notes, a hint of lychee, some yellow spice and orange zest. Ripe, juicy, tightly knit fruit with yellow spice, nutty flavours and floral tones, very fine acidity and a certain sweetness, power and melting on the palate, but also bite, fine vegetal notes, a hint of caramel, moderate grip, persistent, restrained power, certain depth, quite complex, a hint of vanilla and smoke, very good, firm, juicy and spicy finish." Wein-Plus

"Bright and aromatic, with rich notes of lychee, melon, rose petals, peach skin and tangerine as well as savoury hints of blood orange, white pepper and cardamom. This silky, delicious version has a pleasant hint of pink grapefruit peel on the finish." Wine Spectator

"Intense aromas of orange blossoms, honeysuckle, spiced tropical fruit and lychees. Off-dry and full-bodied on the palate, with creamy flavors and a long, composed finish. Moderate acidity with a subtle saline smack at the end. A delicious gewurztraminer to enjoy now." James Suckling

Here comes Varvàra, the convincing "second wine" from the Bolgheri shooting star, named in honour of BaroneVarvàra Wrangel. A wine in the style of the house: a rich, bright ruby colour with a garnet rim, a sophisticated bouquet with a finely pronounced ripe berry nose and beautiful herbal aromas. Warm on the palate, polished, tightly woven and of great elegance and refinement. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, bright ruby red colour. Pronounced nose of juicy blackberries, cigar box, slightly animal and vegetal notes on the finish. Rich fruit sweetness on the palate with great presence, firm tannins, very juicy and recurring on the finish." Falstaff

"The 2022 Bolgheri Rosso Varvàra reveals a smart and easy-drinking style with tight aromas of dark fruit and blackcurrant. It remains linear and direct, including the mouthfeel, finishing with medium build and good freshness." Wine Advocate

"The flavours of raspberries and cherries with thyme and mint are beguiling and merge into a medium body with a beautiful depth and purity of fruit and long, refined tannins. Very polished." James Suckling

The grapes for the Barbaresco come mainly from the top vineyards Pora, Ovello, Montestefano, Muncagota and Rio Sordo. Deep, lively ruby to garnet red colour. A broad bouquet of red fruit and biscuits with a hint of minerality. The palate is characterised by a rich, solid structure and a continuous development that ends in a long, fragrant final. Every year, the leading Italian winegrowers' cooperative shows what it and its members are capable of with its basic Barbaresco. SUPERIORE.DE

"Youthful, medium ruby red colour. A real, concentrated fruit nose, which is sadly lacking in this vintage. Subtle marasca cherry on the palate with lots of finely milled tannins; head and shoulders above the rest." Jancis Robinson

"It is aromatic and attractive with notes of dried cherries, hibiscus, cocoa and bark, followed by a medium body with polished and refined tannins with a velvety texture and a linear finish. Fresh and floral on the finish with a bright red fruit backbone." James Suckling

"The 2020 Barbaresco is a beautiful, harmonious wine that will drink well with minimal cellaring time. Forward fruit and soft curves are perhaps a little atypical for a young Barbaresco, but this also makes the wine very enjoyable. Juicy red cherry and plum fruit, rose petals, spices, cedar, mint and tobacco come together in the glass. Classicists will probably prefer other vintages, but it's hard not to like the 2020 for its charming, exuberant personality. At the same time, aeration brings out a greater aromatic presence and also a good structure." Vinous

"Still vinous, with youthful strawberry notes, rosebud, violets, liquorice and a hint of cinnamon. Spicy and floral on the palate, dominated by firm, crisp and persistent acidity and velvety, ripe tannins of astonishing quality; perhaps a little austere on the finish. Amazing Barbaresco. Here we have the Barbaresco co-operative, known for producing some of the best value quality wines in the Langhe." Decanter

"Embrace the harmonious blend of cooked cherries infused with an array of mixed spices, accompanied by subtle hints of medicinal herbs and rose water. Soft and rounded, yet possessing a discernible edge, this wine presents a fruit-forward profile loaded with flavors of cherry and raspberry, all the while, complemented by refreshing acidity. Its polished and elegant character develops throughout the bottle and will age deep into the future while still being great today." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2020 Barbaresco offers a wealth of flavours of wild cherries, blue flowers, sweet spices and crushed limestone. As always, the wine paints an exciting and authentic portrait of Nebbiolo, albeit with a little more richness and texture in this vintage. This is especially true on the palate, where the wine offers a medium-bodied intensity with melting tannins." Wine Advocate

Only 2,000 numbered bottles of the 2018 debut vintage of the "Vigna del Bersagliere" Morellino di Scansano Riserva were filled. The grapes for the new top Sangiovese from Podere 414 come from a small, organically cultivated vineyard of just 1.3 hectares above the winery. It is aged for 36 months in 500 Liters and then refined for 24 months in the bottle. Bright ruby red in colour. Primary aromas of ripe, dark fruit with spicy notes in the glass. Firmly structured on the palate, again dark fruit, plus plums and earthy tones. It is still young and somewhat angular in the glass, but its exceptional style and good acidity/tannin structure already suggest very good ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intriguing wild berry nose, spiced up with herbal notes; pleasing on the palate, with noticeable acidity, fine-grained tannins, notes of berries, rose petals and subtle spices on the final." Vinum

"A powerful red wine with notes of cloves, dried cherries, cedar wood, orange peel and olives. It is medium to full-bodied, creamy in texture, with firm, still relatively stable tannins. Walnuts at the end. Let it mature." James Suckling

Poggio Valente comes from a single vineyard of the same name at an altitude of around 300 metres. Opulent floral and small-fruited Sangiovese nose with optimally nuanced hints of tobacco, cedar and mint. Precise on the palate with plenty of pressure and power, then towards the end the furious resolution of all the well-dosed components in a fine, silky texture and an unforgettable, long final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Wonderfully clear, red-fruity bouquet with cherries, wild berries and wonderful floral (lavender, roses) and spicy notes. Still very delicate, but juicy and elegant as well as precisely woven with a lively style, lives from the red berry fruit, the fine tannin riff and the wonderfully ethereal freshness with wonderful liquorice notes on the final." Weinwisser

"Brilliant, medium ruby colour with reflections. Initially delicate and subtle on the nose, with a little oxygen the wine opens up with aromas of black cherries and cedar wood. Elegant fruity sweetness on the palate, with fine tannins and a beautiful tension to the final." Falstaff

"Pure Sangiovese from the coast, also animating in this vintage: notes of forest fruits, blackberries, pepper and violets in the multi-faceted bouquet; precise construction with perfectly integrated, well-built tannins and vivid acidity, combining polish and length." Vinum

"The 2021 is ripe and silky, showing an intensity of soft, creamy red fruit with a lovely mineral note. Pure, balanced and precise, it is not quite as vertical as some of its predecessors, but instead has an appealing roundness." Decanter

"Ripe flavours of plum, black cherry and blackberry accentuate this dense red wine, whose lively structure conveys an energetic feel. Notes of earth, iron, eucalyptus and spice add complexity on the finish, with an aftertaste of fruit, wild undergrowth and spice." Wine Spectator

"This pure Sangiovese wine is celebrating its 25th anniversary. I was told that it is made according to a Burgundian model. The Fattoria le Pupille 2021 Poggio Valente offers good fruit concentration, freshness and an open character. It has a lot of character of red fruits, iris, blue flowers and earth, and the tannins are present, albeit powdery." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 Poggio Valente is fabulous. I can’t remember tasting a Poggio Valente with this much finesse. Rose petal, spice and red cherry fruit open in an effusive bouquet that is immediately appealing. Silky, medium in body and gracious, with finesse to burn, the 2021 shows what is possible within the appellation. I love its total class." Vinous

"Aromas of cherries, chocolate and walnuts. Some undertones of lavender and rose petals. Medium-bodied, with superfine tannins and notes of chocolate and vanilla. Give it time to open up." James Suckling