James Suckling

Valter Fissore bottles less than 4,000 bottles of this incredibly classic Barolo every year. Dark cherries, menthol, flowers and tar are just some of the classic notes in the complex bouquet of the Bricco Pernice from the single vineyard Ravera. On the palate, the austere structure and great power are joined by a fine inner sweetness. The long finish is reminiscent of damp earth, dried herbs and wild flowers. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, sparkling ruby with garnet-coloured tendencies. Elegant, fruity-floral bouquet of roses and ripe wild berries, backed by fine wood spice and meadow herbs. Fine fruit melt on the palate, with a compact fruit core and firm tannins, very exciting and incredibly long." Falstaff

"Brilliant medium ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. A breathtaking, multi-layered and complex bouquet with raspberry fruit, salty, mineral notes and a hint of leather. Compact but lush, juicy cherry and raspberry fruit, which develops slowly, and long, grainy, tangible tannins. Mouth-filling, but by no means heavy." Jancis Robinson

"Attractive primary flavours of crushed strawberries and stones follow through to a full body, with fine and polished tannins and a lovely, fresh finish. Lively is a good word to describe this wine overall." James Suckling

"Cherry, plum, tar, tobacco and wild herb flavours permeate this muscular red wine, which is rather austere today, not showing much fruit and has a dense base of powerful tannins. The super-long, ferrous finish shows the future potential of this wine, so keep your hands off it for now." Wine Spectator

Madonna del Piano is a top wine from a top vintage, what more could you want? We are deeply impressed by its energetic tension and complexity, plus a harmony only imagined in the wildest dreams. Focused and racy bouquet of dark cherries, herbs, smoke and mineral hints. Very animating in the drink, the acidity plays around the primary fruit, then the polished tannins set in and glide this beautiful red into its almost endless finish. An extremely characterful and polished wine that is already one of the most beautiful of its appellation. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Madonna del Piano is totally captivating: deep, dark and viral. It smolders up from the glass, with a thrilling mix of cherries and plums complemented by notes of black tea, balsam herbs and ashen stone. With each return to the glass, this seems to expand further, adding nuances of smoke and animal musk. The 2016 is packed full of energy but also youthful tension, showing the radiance of the vintage with its citrus-tinged fruits and depths of minerality. Through it all, energizing acidity maintains harmony, just as fine tannins slowly saturate, resulting in a long finish that resonates on licorice and purple-tinged inner florals. The 2016 is one of the most balanced, yet also prettiest, expressions that I have ever witnessed from Valdicava’s Madonna del Piano." Vinous

"The Valdicava 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Madonna del Piano impresses for its intensity, its balance and its freshness. The wine is medium to full-bodied with a good amount of fruit weight and power that is offset by acidity and the lifted, vibrant quality of the bouquet. If balance is the objective, this wine meets it goals, although like with many of its peers, you certainly won't miss the deep inner power of this determined Brunello." Wine Advocate

"Expressive yet complex, this red is already revealing tertiary hints of truffle, fading roses and spice. Features cherry, raspberry, iron, eucalyptus and anise flavors allied to a firm, compact structure. Balanced and long, with fresh fruit, spice and mineral accents lingering on the endless finish." Wine Spectator

"This is heavenly on the nose with fresh flowers such as violet and cherries with undertones of freshly shaved sandalwood. It’s full-bodied with very fine tannins that are focused and intense with a polished nature. This is a complete wine that impresses at every level. Give it at least five to six years to come together and resolve the tannin structure. Better after 2027." James Suckling

Terre Brune is a Carignano, with a small percentage of Bovaleddu, of seductive balance and fruitiness and every year one of the best reds of Sardinia. Aged in barriques, it shows a fresh but ripe fruit on the nose with a slight hint of cocoa. On the palate of beautiful depth, with present tannins. An exemplary wine vinified with love and full of regional typicity. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, rich ruby red. Ripe – and blackberries on the nose, liquorice and a hint of mint in the aftertaste. On the palate fruit-driven, with sturdy and dense tannin, well balanced, juicy, long final." Falstaff

"Aromas of iron, baked strawberry and thyme. Full–bodied with silky tannins. Tart and sour berries wash over the palate, with wet minerals adding energy and definition. Bright and driving, with really wonderful length and balance. Savory notes, such as bark and chicory root, come through towards the finish. Delicious." James Suckling

Sugarille 2019 is certainly one of the greats of its vintage. A crescendo of dark berries, Amarena cherries, tar, liquorice and smoky notes on the nose. The intensity continues on the palate: Sugarille is uncompromisingly powerful, with multi-layered fruit, striking tannins and wonderful acid wire. With increasing aeration, the impressiveness and opulence give way to a wonderful finesse that will continue to refine and develop with further years of bottle ageing. A wine as wonderful as it is today - and guaranteed to be even better tomorrow! SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium to deep ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Much more closed and sleepy than the Rennina and with an undertone of oak. There is also a little more fullness. Restrained on the palate, with marvellous cherry, cranberry and raspberry fruit. Superfine, deep tannins. Polished and long, with a hint of tannin on the finish." Jancis Robinson

"To complete Angelo Gaja's comparison with his Langhe wines, he compares Sugarille with Barolo (as opposed to Rennina, which he equates with Barbaresco). This powerful wine will appeal to anyone looking for a powerful Brunello. Sweet oak spices and plums are accompanied by earthy forest tones. It is rich and fruity, but austere and firm in structure: dark cherry and plum hang on steely, vertical grape tannins. Thicker wood tannins build at the core, but crisp acidity balances the dense structure, and medicinal herbs are embedded in the layers. This wine is firming up in the glass and still needs plenty of time." Decanter

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Sugarille is dark and youthfully closed, forcing the taster to engage with its brooding blend of blackberry, sage and crushed stone. It displays textures of pure silk, polished and refined, with a dense textural wave of tart red and black fruits underscored by savoury minerals and exotic spices. Orange notes provide contrast on the finish, which is tannic and long, with a pleasant chew and angular tannins that pinch the cheeks. The 2019 is a dark Brunello stallion with plenty of muscle and flesh that will need many more years in the cellar to show its best side. But it will be worth the wait." Vinous

"An elegant version, this red exhibits cherry, graphite, earth, blood and eucalyptus aromas and flavors, turning darker and more brooding as it evolves in the mouth, with both savory and mineral elements. Yet this remains very Sangiovese, with a firm, peppery aftertaste that echoes fruit, iron and underbrush accents." Wine Spectator

"Extremely perfumed and intense with lilac, violets, violet fruit and black cherries. Full-bodied and very structured with powerful tannins that give it great length and intensity. A great wine for the cellar. Try it after 2027." James Suckling

"The Pieve Santa Restituta 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Sugarille displays a finely chiselled quality with direct and lifted fruit that gives this wine an edgy or delineated personality. This impression is reinforced by delicate mineral notes of crushed stone that give way to dark fruits, sweet plums, black cherries and earthy orris roots. The wine is elegant, but also very flavoursome and structured thanks to the natural ripeness and concentration of the fruit. Give this wine more time in the bottle." Wine Advocate

"The Stilèma project was created as a testimony to Antonio Mastroberardino's love for his land, his vines and his wines, and their original character." Piero Mastroberardino

The project aims to highlight the link between the vines, the wines and their territorial origins. The Mastroberardino family wants to recreate the style of winemaking of the indigenous grape varieties of Irpinia (Greco, Fiano and Aglianico) that took place between the late 1950s and early 1970s for the Taurasi and between 1970 and 1980 for the two white wines from Irpinia. It is the unmistakable style (the stilèma) of a family that has interpreted the natural heritage of its territory over generations and that today impressively emphasises the genuine character of the terroir, which by no means can be expressed through high concentration and intensity alone.

Pale straw yellow in colour with light green reflections. The 24 months of ageing on the lees of this exceptional Fiano creates a fascinating balance and complexity in the aroma profile with classic hints of flint, fine saltiness, the scent of fresh almonds, cedar wood and wild herbs. The flavour is lively with a pronounced mineral note, accompanied by an inspiring freshness that gives it great drinking flow and finesse. The precise and very long finish is also extremely convincing. SUPERIORE.DE

"Proof of the grape variety's ageing potential: On the nose, fresh hay and apple notes, including mint, are captivating; in the mouth, the wine is acidic and fresh with a fine salty minerality and a precise evolution towards citrus and apple notes." Vinum

"This slight hint of initial reduction fades to reveal soft citrus, exotic fruit, white peach and pear. The wine's flinty minerality is well defined. The fruit comes from four vineyards and the wine is mostly aged in stainless steel." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Fiano di Avellino Riserva Stilema is aromatically intense, with a burst of ground ginger, cumin, incense and crushed green apples. It's a seductress, with a sweet burst of ripe fruit on the attack that is quickly contrasted by lemon zest and vibrant acidity. As well as being incredibly fresh, the 2019 is also incredibly long, finishing with a sense of liquid stone and a pleasant bitter note that calls me back to the glass for more." Vinous

"A fresh Fiano with aromas of honeysuckle, flint, oyster shells and green pear, which fade into a medium body, a creamy texture and a fruity finish. Slightly salty on the finish." James Suckling

"A masterful, intense and complex pure Fiano. Beautiful profile on the nose, lychee, a hint of pink grapefruit and pineapple, with a finish of herbs, thyme and a hint of jasmine. Dense, iodised mouthfeel, lovely depth, with a return of exotic fruit." Luca Gardini

"The nose is sweet yet structured, thoughtful and almost wistful, with notes of vanilla, pear, yellow apple, lemon, dried pineapple and almond paste. On the elegant, equally compelling palate, a more intense lemon element swirls around fresher pineapple notes and emerging melon flavours before a toasted almond finish follows. The bright acidity adds a subtle sizzle to the overall silky mouthfeel." Wine Enthusiast

"The Stilèma project was born as a testimony of Antonio Mastroberardino's love for his land, his vines and his wines, for their original character." Piero Mastroberardino

The project aims to highlight the link between the vines, the wines and their territorial origins. In this way, the Mastroberardino family wants to recreate the style of winemaking of the autochthonous grape varieties of Irpinia (Greco, Fiano and Aglianico) that took place between the end of the 1950s and the beginning of the 1970s of the twentieth century for the Taurasi and between the years 1970 and 1980 for the two white wines from Irpinia. It is the unmistakable style (the stilèma) of a family that has interpreted the natural heritage of its territory over generations and today impressively highlights the genuine character of the terroir, which by no means can be expressed by high concentration and intensity alone.

Stilèma Greco di Tufo Riserva is a blend of grapes from the Montefusco, Tufo and Petruro Irpino vineyards. During the cellar processes, special attention was paid to the malolactic fermentation and the ageing phase, which give the wine density and consistency. Pale straw yellow with greenish reflections. On the nose, notes of ripe fruit, lychee and grapefruit, yellow flowers, dried fruit and figs. Powerful but agile taste with a pronounced salty note, accompanied by a surprising freshness that gives it drinkability and finesse. It closes with a subtle and long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich straw yellow with greenish reflections. In the nose of tropical fruits, lychee and grapefruit, in the aftertaste iodine, flint and slightly herbal, very complex. On the palate filigree, very salty and fresh, drinky, with draught, long and mineral final." Falstaff

"The 2018 Greco di Tufo Riserva Stilèma is rich and sweet-smelling, captivating with a tropical blend of green melon and exotic flowers. On the palate, it flows with a medium-weight texture that feels silky and shows mineral fruit and savoury spices. The 2018 finishes with admirable depth and concentration, ending with a saline feel and notes of lime and liquid stones. While enjoyable, this wine is still very young and needs further ageing to reveal its hidden charms." Vinous

"Peach-stained pinewood notes at first, developing to more clearly defined fresh white grapes, yellow peaches and minerals on the palate. Medium- to full-bodied, bright and focused. An interesting and refined Greco." James Suckling

"Here is a new wine from Mastroberardino, and what a charming beauty it is. The 2018 Greco di Tufo Riserva Stiléma takes advantage of the new "Riserva" status and offers us a glimpse into the age-worthiness of Greco. It is a white wine with a soft texture and medium-weight approach. The bouquet shows a filigree of lemon curd, pastry cream, saffron and wet stone." Wine Advocate

The Carménère grape, which is hardly ever found in Italy and is normally found in the Médoc, is reinterpreted in a masterly way at Tenuta San Leonardo. Deep, dark ruby red, with a broad-shouldered bouquet of dark fruit and very harmonious spice. The barely noticeable acidity makes it round on the palate, silky smooth and extremely long and elegant. With this single-varietal red, too, the winery impressively demonstrates its lone class in the region. SUPERIORE.DE

"This medium- to full-bodied red feels almost effortlessly integrated, with fine-grained tannins and an underlying tar-tinged minerality framing woven flavors of ripe black currant, herbed black olive, ground coffee and loamy earth. Long, creamy finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Carménère is darkly floral and intense, displaying mentholated herbs, peppery florals, blackberries and mint. This is pure elegance on the palate, soothingly soft and expressive, with ripe red and black fruits underscored by savory mineral tones and vibrant acidity that maintains a lovely energy throughout. It finishes remarkably fresh with a gentle tug of tannins, leaving licorice and violet inner florals to fade. The 2018 is a darling, impressing on its elegance and grace. There was no 2017 produced due to the low quantities of the vintage." Vinous

"This unique and delicious 100% Carmenère from the mountains of Alto Adige opens with aromas of dark cherry, black plum and cassis. As the wine opens it offers notes of black tea, dried mountain herbs and tobacco. The palate showcases the structure of the grape with opulent fruit that is hemmed in by ripe tannins, finishing with notes of baking spice and bright acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"Black cherries, cigar box, haw fruit, oriental herbs, black pepper, roasted red chili pepper and tapenade on the nose. A hint of savory cocoa powder, too. Juicy and very fresh on the medium-bodied palate with firm, fresh tannins and a long, peppery finish. Racy, cool and energetic. Very drinkable." James Suckling

Grattamacco is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese, the latter grape variety certainly contributing to the fresh style of this wine. However, the overall picture is only complete when you realise that the vineyards used for this blend are among the best in the appellation. The Grattamacco Bolgheri Rosso Superiore is characterised by its typical aromas of leaves and Mediterranean forest, with subtle flavours of kiwi peel, cassis, paprika and chocolate. Velvety, youthful and firm on the attack, less light than the Alberello, but more tightly woven and of great elegance. Its length is astonishing, great potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"Stunning berry aromas, facets of dried flowers, pepper and Mediterranean scrub; polished structure with powdery tannins, the accentuated acidity provides youthfulness in the background, then lots of charm and great length on notes of plums, Mediterranean flora and spices." Vinum

"Bright ruby red colour. Expressive, sweet-fruity bouquet of cassis and blackberry, with notes of ebony, tobacco leaf, cocoa and fumé, complex. Spreads across the palate like a silk scarf, with precise fruit and fine-grained tannins, juicy and with gentle pressure into the long finish." Falstaff

"Medium to dark crimson colour. Very complete and with slightly less obvious tannins than the 2016. Already very approachable and well balanced with a chalky texture at the end. Really charming with a light inkiness. Long and fresh." Jancis Robinson

"Blueberry, blackcurrant and pomegranate flavours are accentuated by oak spice, graphite and rosemary notes in this fresh, long red wine. Taut and lively, with excellent balance and a fine-grained tannin band on the finish." Wine Spectator

"The result in 2021 is magnificent, with the scent of blackberries and a dense, savoury palate with black and blue berries, silky tannins and sous bois complexity. The wonderful juicy softness of the fruit is enlivened by minty-fresh acidity, a savoury kick and a tasty, almost ferrous finish." Decanter

"This is a different level, with blackcurrants, blueberries and Mediterranean herbs such as rosemary and sage. Also tobacco and coffee beans. Medium-bodied with fine tannins and a lingering finish. Sophisticated and thought-provoking. A new level of quality with this wine." 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.

The grapes for Ricasoli's classic come from a south-facing plot at an ideal altitude of 250 to 450 metres above sea level. Castello di Brolio Gran Selezione is a wonderful wine with great richness and depth. It has an intense bouquet of small red berries, violets and spices. The flavour reveals precision, structure and freshness. The tannin and acidity are well-balanced and promise a long life and an interesting ageing period. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, medium ruby red colour. Opens elegantly on the nose with aromas of redcurrants, orange peel and juicy cherries. Cool fruit on the palate, very elegant, well-integrated tannins, exciting and persistent final." Falstaff

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Brolio 2021 smells of red Sangiovese fruit, white pepper, cedar wood, tobacco, incense and dried herbs. In the glass, the Riserva is bright and complex, with great energy, another good offering from the Ricasoli family. In fact, the 2021 is one of the best editions I have ever tasted." Vinous

"The Barone Ricasoli 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Gaiole Castello di Brolio, now labelled with the Gaiole sub-region on the back label, displays a beautiful bouquet densely packed with carefully ripened fruit. The aromas are characterised by hints of candied cherries intermingled with orris root, dried mint and spice. This generous Sangiovese finishes with lingering freshness." Wine Advocate

"A core of ripe cherries, plums and pomegranates permeates this lively, complex red wine. A balanced version with a firm grip on the finish that complements its fresh acidity. The long aftertaste recalls the fruit and mineral and Mediterranean shrub notes." Wine Spectator

"Ricasoli's flagship wine is a blend of grapes from vineyards in Gaiole on the most important soil types of Chianti Classico: Macigno (sandstone), Galestro and Alberese. The wine shows delicate notes of dark cherries and spiced plums, which are followed in the mouth by a wonderfully vertical structure in which the juicy fruit floats and the savoury edges vibrate with energy. The fruit has a wonderful juiciness, and the tannins are supportive but play a subordinate role. Absolute class." Decanter

"Intense and balanced, perfect standard bearer of the winery. Intense and complex nose, red mulberry, hints of cloves, a touch of laurel and rhubarb. The sip has spicy tannins, a hint of floral nuances and a finish with an officinal return." Luca Gardini

"This wine is so elegant, with a finesse and sensitivity that are so fascinating. It is delicate and almost weightless, with a beautiful and energetic balance of fruit and acidity. It is medium-bodied and extremely long. Medium chewiness. It goes on and on. Dark cherries, bark and lots of flowers on the finish." James Suckling

Ceretto's Barbaresco Asili (approx. 4,000 bottles) is the clearest and most complete of the winery's impressive Barbaresco collection. It reveals a fine sweetness of cherries and redcurrants on the nose, followed by an extremely silky and fine texture on the palate. Following on from the bright berry fruit, its bouquet reveals subtle notes of gravel and delicate, salty flavours. Overall, an accessible and highly elegant approach with great freshness, fine tannins and great ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Aromas of black cherries and dried flowers flow along the top of the glass as notes of earth, truffle and incense swirl below. Elegant but firm tannins, with the first sip showing savory flavors of black tea and herbs macerating with wild red fruits that linger for what seems like ages." Wine Enthusiast

"Extremely spicy with rose stems, orange peel and a few pieces of cedar wood. Full-bodied, very chewy tannins. Almost leathery. Becomes mineral and icy. Needs time to soften. Better after 2026." James Suckling

"The Barbaresco Asili 2020 is quite simply a textbook Asili. Fragrant and silky, with tremendous purity of fruit and class, the 2020 is so impressive. All the elements are so well balanced in a Barbaresco that impresses with its pedigree. A long, beautifully persistent finish rounds things off in style." Vinous

"The Ceretto 2020 Barbaresco Asili (a certified organic wine) shows aromas of violet fruits, especially summer plums and some blackcurrant. The wine opens in a dark garnet red colour with the advantage of the beautiful transparency that comes with Nebbiolo. The Asili seems to have a little more fruit weight and vigour in this warm vintage." Wine Advocate

"If there is one MGA that benefits from the richness of the 2020 vintage, it is the Asili, known for its lean, pure elegance. Parma violet is enveloped in watermelon fruit, leafy lightness and a base of spices among smoky woods, liquorice and roots. The lush fruit on the palate is carried by crisp acidity and dense, silky tannins, with a grippy, youthful finish, drenched in a tangy blood orange aftertaste. A very elegant Asili with volume. A great wine." Decanter

Three years after the Annata, Romano and his sons launch a small edition of the same vintage in large formats. As every year, the secret star of the house gives the Dominator in Dal Forno style. Dark and dense, it reveals an intense bouquet with marmalade-like aromas of red and dark fruits, alongside which spices and wood, tobacco and chocolate echo. At the same time, the youthful and stormy taste is an overwhelming demonstration of power. SUPERIORE.DE

"A very rich and spicy nose of kirsch, sweet morello cherries, spice box, hazlenuts and vanilla beans with dried dark cherry cake and lots of cedar, too. Full body, sweet fruit, vibrant acidity, ripe and round tannins and a fruit-forward finish. Always excellent." James Suckling

La Casa 2016 is a terrificwine in deep dark ruby red and a bouquet of small red berries, cedar wood and spicy-scented flowers that opens up for minutes. The palate is precise, taut and finely layered, with silky textures and a palate concert of spicy black cherries, spices, leather, tobacco and tar. Dense yet elegant as it progresses, the fine-grained tannins rounding out its perfect beauty. Very intense and with a wonderful ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"The round dance opens with fine-smelling aromas of raspberries and blossoms; opens with fine-grained tannins and concise acidity, then an extremely linear course to a multi-tonal fruit finish. Very successful." Vinum

"Already the bouquet shows a lot of intensity with ripe plums and dark, candied cherries, plus a bouquet of floral notes, violets, lavender, but also "powerful" notes like iron and blood. Densely built on the palate with present, ripe tannins, sweet berry fruit, showing provenance and vintage with a multi-layered final and punchy Sangiovese spice." Weinwisser

"Powerful, sparkling ruby. Very much present and clear fruit, after fresh plums, dark cherries, fine cloves in the background. Gripping, gripping tannin, spreads out richly, after red berry fruit, slightly malty note in the final." Falstaff

"Rich red fruit, sour cherry, blueberry, seems quite young, raw meat, pithy herbal spice; still very firm pulling tannin on the palate, not too expansive." Meiningers Sommelier

"One of five vineyards sites in the Caparzo stable, Vigna La Casa is located on the Galestro-rich soil of Montalcino’s revered Montosoli hill. Quite primary and fresh, this hints at smoke, cedar and star anise. It is more firmly structured and robust than the estate Brunello, with palpable wood tannins and ripe, dark cherry filling out the palate." Decanter

"Rose, graphite, star anise and eucalyptus aromas come to the forefront. The chiseled, racy palate features juicy morello cherry, licorice and coffee bean framed in close-grained tannins and bright acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino La Casa takes a little time to collect itself in the glass, pulling you closer as white smoke gives way to crushed stone, then peppery florals, wild strawberry and cedar. The textures are like pure silk, with an elegant display of savory black cherry and spice complicated by salty minerals. This shows amazing density while never feeling heavy, nearly masking its fine-grained tannins until the very end, where hints of orange citrus and dried berries linger. The 2016 La Casa is a beauty with plenty of upside potential." Vinous

"This red displays a mix of macerated plum, cherry, mint, earth, iron and sanguine flavors. In the savory camp, without the purity of many of its peers, at least today, yet harmonious and long, with dusty tannins on the finish. Be patient." Wine Spectator

"Aromas of berry, toffee and chocolate with cherry undertones. It’s full-bodied with a tight, focused palate with ripe tannins and a flavorful finish. Tight and polished. Needs bottle age to open and show its true potential." James Suckling

Messorio has been undisputedly one of Italy's best and rarest Merlots since the mid-1990s. Soft, rich, elegant, refined and never overdone. On the nose, ripe fruit, coffee, graphite and French oak. Structured and balanced, Messorio fascinates the international wine world every year with a clarity and length that is unparalleled. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, intense ruby with violet glints. Opens with notes of forest floor, cedar wood and pine needles, then blueberry and blackberry, inviting. Very juicy, lots of dark fruit, opens with fine-meshed, very well-placed tannin, shows good drinking flow, juicy, very long finish." Falstaff

"Bright cassis, straw and graphite on the nose - all are the more overt characters typical of Bolgheri's solar Merlot. The concentrated fruit is dense and fleshy on the palate, with an oaky, slightly chalky and austere character as well as velvety tannins and a graceful finish of cedar. Assertive yet integrated acidity balances the alcohol. Great ageing potential." Decanter

"Le Macchiole is always distinguished by its deadly balance, and the Messorio is no exception. Cherries, cranberries, wild herbs and earth on the nose continue on the palate before pepper, charred meat and a juicy spiciness emerge on the finish. Tannins that unwind with ease and a palpable spiciness keep things exciting; a pleasure in the moment, but seeing what happens next will be worth the wait." Wine Enthusiast

"Le Macchiole's great challenge on pure Merlot, obtained with a prophetic 'subtraction' work. Black raspberry, juniper and liquorice on the nose, with small touches of nutmeg, on the palate tense-dense and juicy-savoury, with a fruity and undergrowth return." Luca Gardini

"Blackberry, oyster shell, iodine and black olive. Also some caraway and thyme. Full-bodied with a very tight palate of firm tannins and fresh, mineral blue fruits. Needs time to open up and show its true potential. Try it after 2025." James Suckling

"At this stage it is strongly marked by new oak, with vanilla and toasted spices wrapped around a core of plum, black cherry, earth and cedar. Graceful and balanced, it firms up on the lingering finish. This is all about purity of fruit, finesse and length. Decant it now or let it age for 2-3 years." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Messorio combines the natural opulence of Merlot on the Tuscan coast with a finesse I have never seen here before. It has a lot of depth and resonance, but none of the heaviness that has been so en vogue for many years. Dark cherry, plum, spice, mocha and floral notes lead into a racy, exotic finish." Vinous

"The stunning Le Macchiole 2019 Messorio is a pure Merlot from a special 2.5 hectare parcel with a classic blend of Bolgheri soils with clay, silt, sandstone and limestone. The wine ferments in concrete and is aged in new barriques for 18 months. This beautiful wine exudes scents of cherries, blue flowers, iris roots, gravel and slate. Balanced oak tones add power and texture to the full-bodied finish." Wine Advocate

Barbaresco Bricco di Treiso presents itself with more power and depth than the normal Barbaresco. Dark red stone fruit, menthol, spices, leather and some cedar wood on the nose. Powerful on the palate, even at a young age, with plenty of muscle power which, together with the harmoniously balanced tannin and acidity structure, suggests a great, long life with a promising development. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with a sparkling centre and delicately brightening rim. Great, appealing and open nose, of fresh cinnamon powder, ripe raspberries, plus some sealing wax and white pepper, savoury and inviting. Very elegant and polished on the palate, with tightly woven tannins, beautiful salinity and a very long finish." Falstaff

"The Barbaresco Il Bricco 2019 is a very beautiful, beguiling wine. Sweet red cherry fruit, blood orange, cinnamon, mint and spices give the 2019 an impressive dimension and complexity. This deceptively medium-bodied Barbaresco shows great depth and power." Vinous

"Packed with cherry, raspberry, floral and mineral aromas and flavours, this red is restrained but harmonious and structured, with notes of iron, tobacco and undergrowth adding complexity in the long, dense aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"Subtle, pure and pretty, this wine carries an intentional character. It offers dark cherry notes, both fresh and warmed, enhanced by sweet spice. Earthy and leathery undertones accompany fine but present tannins finishing with lifted acidity, built to last." Wine Enthusiast

"The fruit for this wine comes from the Bricco di Treiso MGA and immediately shows more softness and textural definition. The Barbaresco Il Bricco 2019 is multi-layered and rich with black fruits, spices, tar and a sweet hint of cinnamon. Il Bricco offers more overall power and structure for longer ageing in the cellar." Wine Advocate

"A solid and powerful Barbaresco with fantastic depth of fruit and multi-layered tannins. Full and so deep and concentrated, with great length and structure. Bark, berries, minerals and deep terroir and gravitas. Try it after 2027." James Suckling

Since the 2011 vintage, the Riserva Marchese Antinori has been made entirely from grapes from Tenuta Tignanello. As a result, the production volume has decreased and a further leap in quality has been made. Sparkling ruby in colour, with a bouquet of dark wild cherries, graphite, violets and spices. Flowing and round on the palate, very juicy, the French oak adds volume and fullness. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, bright ruby red colour. Fragrant, new precious wood on the nose, delicate cherry, with some coconut and light vanilla, raspberry fruit on the finish, fragrant. Elegant and wood-accentuated style on the palate, everything is in its place, currently still a little young, shows very good foresight." Falstaff

"The 2020 Chianti Classico Riserva Marchese Antinori, from the Tignanello estate, is packed with black cherry, spice, new leather, liquorice and dried flowers. A dash of Merlot gives it soft contours, but it's a fairly crowded style that works well here." Vinous

"Dense with fruit concentration, red fruits, a hint of wood spice and dried herbs. Full-bodied with a rich mouthfeel. Long and powerful. Modern and balanced." Decanter

"This wine is similar in structure to a Brunello with excellent length. Racy and concentrated. Aromas of violets and dried flowers with a hint of bark and dark cherries. Medium-bodied with very fine tannins and a marvellous finish. A wine for now or for the cellar." James Suckling

"A lean, elegant red wine with fine, pure aromas of cherries, blackcurrants, iron, olives and tobacco. New oak is evident on the palate, adding both spice and structure, balanced by ample fruit and texture. Balanced, complex finish." Wine Spectator

This Merlot is so strictly limited that it is not even on the winery's official price list. The grapes for this exceptional Merlot, bottled exclusively in only a few magnum bottles, come from vines of the winery that are over 30 years old. Actually vinified only for our own consumption and good friends, we managed to obtain a few bottles for our customers.

On the nose, fresh notes of crisp red fruits, along with balsamic notes reminiscent of the vegetation of this upper part of the Maremma. The body is decisive, enveloping, rich and at the same time boundlessly elegant. This Merlot impresses with its precise response. The refreshing acidity gives it the tools for a long life. Happy the one who can call a bottle of it his own. SUPERIORE.DE

"This wine is only released in magnum bottles and I tasted number 66 of only 246 bottles produced. The organic and biodynamic Ampeleia 2018 Merlot Empatia shows a beautiful richness of fruit and concentration, certainly with weight but without heaviness. The wine remains bright and buoyant thanks to black cherry, smoked tobacco and spice. There are also notes of liquorice, green olives and Mediterranean herbs. The vines are rooted in volcanic soils from an ancient crater." Wine Advocate

"Unique aromas of blackberries, lavender, sage, coriander and ink. Complex on the nose. Full-bodied with creamy tannins and beautiful fruit density. The length and polish of this wine are, as always, very impressive. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Only available in the magnum bottle. Drinkable now, but best from 2025." James Suckling

"The 2018 Empatia is 100% Merlot bottled only in magnum. A wine of presence and textural intensity, the 2018 dazzles right out of the gate. Black cherry, cloves, leather, licorice and incense meld together in this deep, sumptuous wine. This is impressive." Vinous

Barolo Ornato is a great wine every year. It captures the true character of Serralunga with its wild herbs, minerals and ferruginous notes. Its bouquet shows small berry fruits and cassis, framed by gravel, forest floor, blue flowers and candied orange peel. The wine also has a dusty, mineral note and is intense on both the nose and palate. Ornato sets in with finely integrated tannins and an acidity that sustains all these fruit flavours. A wine that is consistently vertical, straightforward and frontal. SUPERIORE.DE

"Wonderfully fragrant, subtle bouquet with notes of freshly pressed pomegranate, redcurrant and heart cherries, again some blood orange. More elegant, clearly more compact and multi-layered palate than the two predecessors, simply has more density and power, but remains elegant and enormously juicy, immensely polished tannin, absolutely coherent, shows ripe fruit, fine melting." Weinwisser

"Medium ruby red with orange reflections. Beautiful, open and ripe cherry aroma with minerals and a hint of liquorice and lots of depth. Generous, supple fruit with gripping tannins that form a real unit. Great length with lots of powdery tannins, juice and grip. Simply irresistible, but might be too austere for most palates at the moment." Jancis Robinson

"The 2018 Barolo Ornato reveals some very distant hot season aromas, vaguely reminiscent of dried raspberries or stewed plums. The Nebbiolo is very sensitive to the warmer temperatures and even a hint of extra ripeness is easy to detect. However, the wine is fluid and constantly evolving. The fruit-driven aromas soon turn into a brooding complexity with smoke, tar and liquorice. The Ornato paints a broad picture of the intensity typical of Serralunga d'Alba." Wine Advocate

"The 2018 Barolo Ornato is sombre, brooding and quite self-contained. There is a lot of aromatic and flavour complexity, but the fruit is very much in the background. It will be interesting to see if the 2018 emerges or if it remains rather compact as it is today. There is a good amount of density and power behind all the tannin. Hints of blood orange, crushed raspberry, rose petal and cinnamon linger on the super classy finish." Vinous

"Spicy, with notes of white pepper, cumin, fennel seed and minerals framing a core of preserved plums and cherries. Dense, viscous and lively, balanced and expressive. It finishes with excellent length and power." Wine Spectator

"Pio Cesare owns most of Ornato, which lies between Briccolina and Falletto. The Serralunga character is particularly typical here, with fruits of wild strawberries and cherries combined with rhubarb and minerality. The attack is silky, with great concentration and savouriness, woven acidity and refined tannins through to the lingering finish." Decanter

"Complex on the nose, with a mix of ripe red berries, nutty minerals, orange peel and spices. Also some spicy, almost meaty notes. Full, compact and intense, but very graceful on the palate thanks to the fine tannins. Very polished and promising. Stylish. Still needs some time. Try it from 2025." James Suckling

"From Cascina Ornato, Pio Cesare's first cru, first produced in 1985, a Barolo of power and structure. On the nose blackcurrant, notes of liquorice and peony. The mouthfeel has spicy, salty tannins and a finish with notes of liquorice and small black fruits. Long lasting." Luca Gardini

This great wine is only released for sale nine years after the harvest: The slow drying of the fully ripe grapes gives this cru its immense strength and density as well as its extraordinary character with powerful ripeness, fruit fullness, beautiful concentration and great elegance. On the palate, Bertani's Amarone demonstrates freshness, noble lightness and great dynamism. An exciting wine and for decades probably the most classic Amarone - the archetype, so to speak - of the entire appellation. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, very intense ruby colour. Opens with light mineral notes, followed by preserved cherries and rich red berry fruit, with fine blood orange in the background. Very precise attack and finish, elegant cherry fruit, grippy, dense tannins, opens up in many layers, fine enamel, already easy to drink, very juicy, great development potential." Falstaff

"Medium garnet red colour. There's so much going on here on the nose! Fruit and dried spices. The next time I'm in an Indian restaurant with a good wine list, I want to try an Amarone. Really very complex and exciting. So fresh and clean! Dry finish. So different from the commercial Amarone norm. Really quite exciting." Jancis Robinson

"The 2012 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico takes its time to open up in the glass, slowly evolving with a rich blend of crushed black cherries complemented by dusty purple flowers and exotic spices. The palate is silky smooth but with cooling minerality and vibrant acids that give an energetic feel, while a saturation of red fruits and fine tannins emerge towards the finish. The 2012 finishes lightly textured with an echo of balsamic spice and bitter cocoa notes still lingering - a fantastic and truly harmonious rendition of Bertani's Amarone Classico." Vinous

"This wine is pure in its fruit, earnestness and joy. It opens with aromas of vibrant red plum, macerated red cherries and raspberries followed by cocoa powder, oolong tea and dried violets. Each sniff of the glass brings a new aroma. The wine is earth-driven on the palate, with tobacco and dried red and black fruits blending well with mixed herbs, savory spices and elegant tannins, all leading to a fresh acidity that makes the wine pop on the finish." Wine Enthusiast

"Wow, what a complex bouquet, with a base of dried cherries that is spiced up with a hint of mild coffee and walnuts. There are also dried flowers, wild herbs and spices such as tarragon and cloves. Subtle hints of dried banana and apricot. The palate is full-bodied, very smooth, intense and balanced, with firm, spicy tannins that drive everything forward. Long, long finish. It's nice to taste it now, but this wine, already almost ten years old, will be in your cellar for a long time." James Suckling

Bright golden colour, full bouquet with explosive aromas of quince, honey, wax, granite, blood orange, vanilla, white chocolate and straw. Initial notes of roasted cashew and almond on the palate, followed by fruit such as white peach, pear and citrus. Exciting and very multi-faceted. SUPERIORE.DE

"Extremely balanced nose of exotic fruits, flanked by bold citrus notes, Mediterranean flowers and spices; the attack is supple, the acidity perfectly integrated and yet a source of finesse and freshness, finishes long and extremely multi-faceted on fruit and balsamic flavours. Very successful." Vinum

"This is a little more subtle than past bottlings and shows freshness and brightness with some crushed stones, dried apples, lemon blossoms and honeysuckle. Medium-bodied with fresh, tangy undertones of sliced pears and honey. Crisp finish. Some stones and just a hint of phenolics at the end. Complex. Best yet?" James Suckling

Barolo Ornato is a great wine every year. With its wild herbs, minerals and ferrous notes, it captures the true character of Serralunga. Its bouquet shows small berry fruits and cassis, framed by gravel, forest floor, blue flowers and candied orange peel. The wine also has a dusty, mineral note and is very intense both on the nose and on the palate. Ornato starts with finely integrated tannins and an acidity that sustains all these fruit flavours. A wine that is consistently vertical, straightforward and frontal. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, shiny ruby-garnet colour. Nose of toast, mint, then fine raspberries and rosehips, fine earthy tones, cardamom. Great entry on the palate, deep and multi-layered, savoury, comes in several waves, lingers remarkably long and juicy." Falstaff

"An inviting red that offers ripe plums, cherries, earth, eucalyptus, iron and tobacco flavours. It becomes denser and slightly viscous on the finish, with earthy and herbal elements echoing. All components are present, so be patient." Wine Spectator

"The Barolo Ornato 2019 is a big, tightly wound Serralunga Barolo that needs time to unfold. Iron, white pepper, mint, dried herbs and orange peel open up, but with great restraint. Today, the Ornato is impenetrable. Let's see what happens over time." Vinous

"The Pio Cesare 2019 Barolo Ornato comes from one of the most famous MGA vineyards in Serralunga d'Alba. The character of this wine is always characterised by structure and power, and these qualities are particularly evident in a vintage like 2019, which offers more concentrated fruit at the start. The Ornato is imbued with dark berry flavours that contrast with spicy tones, tar and smoke. It finishes with finely structured tannins." Wine Advocate

"The Ornato 2019 emphasises the special nature of this vineyard with its grace and structure, which combine to create pure class. Dark cherry flavours are nestled among wild herbs, flowers and savoury spices that grab and draw your attention with every sip. This robust and well-structured wine is built for the future, when all the parts relax into each other and show just how great this wine is." Wine Enthusiast

"This wine is beautiful with ultra-fine tannins, cherries, berries and flowers. Medium to full body. Wonderful length. Very classic in structure. Straightforward and racy. Taut on the finish. Give it four to six years in the bottle." James Suckling

"From Cascina Ornato, the first cru in the history of the estate, a sculptural Barolo with power and structure. Blackcurrant on the nose, notes of liquorice and peony. Salty on the palate, with liquorice notes on the finish." Luca Gardini

Terlano I (pronounced Primo) Grande Cuvée is the name of the white flagship of Cantina Terlano. In recent years, the winery has made a name for itself worldwide with its long-lasting, mineral white wines. Even years later, the wines still present themselves with top freshness and great complexity. With this long history of white wines, since the 2011 vintage there is now a wine in which the essence of Terlan is expressed in an even more focussed way. Terlaner I Grande Cuvée combines the Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay and Sauvignon grape varieties from the Winkl, Kreuth and Vorberg vineyards to create a masterpiece which, due to its limited and exclusive nature, will only be available from hand-picked retailers and in selected top restaurants.

Brilliant straw yellow colour. Rich and complex on the nose with flavours of citrus fruit, white pepper and herbs as well as a delicate smoky note. Remarkable structure and refined texture that give it finesse, elegance and an unmistakable character. The extraordinarily long and salty finish leaves an almost endless impression as an expression of a unique mineral terroir. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, pale straw yellow colour with green components. Intense and very clear nose, impressive, starts with notes of flint, then white peach, apricot and grapefruit, very clear and precise, fresh sage in the background. Juicy and extremely round in attack and finish, fresh apricot and grapefruit, salty on the final, very long finish, spans a wide range." Falstaff

"A hint of fragrant spices and white flowers surround the flavours of ripe pineapple, tangerine peel, white cherry and Marcona almond. The palate is expressive and rich, but the mouth-watering acidity provides a smooth and harmonious frame without excessive weight. This beautiful version is long and lush on the finish, where a mineral underpainting emerges to linger alongside the beautiful profile." Wine Spectator

"The Terlaner I Primo Grande Cuvée 2021 is intense and mineral from the start. It opens with a beguiling blend of flint, camphor and white smoke, before moving on to dried peaches and apricots. The palate is ripe yet refined, with a silky texture that takes on a saline note as tart fruit piles up in cascades complicated by a spicy hint of ginger. The 2021 is long, long, long, youthfully tense and gently tannic, with a crunchy feel and the impression of liquid stone lingering beneath a hint of pretty inner flowers. The potential is unmistakable. This is an I Primo for the ages." Vinous

"Tropical mango, pineapple and melon overlay the delicious grassy and floral undertones. The wine shines with its elegance, mineral structure and citrus acidity: simultaneously rich and incredibly refreshing with an amazing length. True perfection." Decanter

"Classic peach stone aroma with an elegance reminiscent of Corton Charlemagne, full of flintstone minerality, lime blossom and pink grapefruit. Initially delicate on the palate, with concentrated fruit, weight and vibrancy, with great harmony and balance. A tight structure between fruit and acidity leads to a long, fruity and very refreshing finish. Drink now or store for decades." James Suckling