Jancis Robinson

Luce Brunello has been one of the icons in the large portfolio of Frescobaldi wines from Tuscany for years. The 2019 edition opens with great power and determination with ripe fruit flavours of blackberries and candied cherries. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and very harmonious thanks to the bright acidity and the overall quality of the primary fruit flavours of this excellent vintage. The tannins are well woven into the full-bodied density of the wine. Be sure to aerate or, better still, leave to mature for a few years in the cellar. SUPERIORE.DE

"Multi-layered aromas of ripe red fruits, spices, undergrowth and lilac; round, dense and with verve on the palate, racy tannins, combines juice and mineral character, fine tartness on the final. A successful blend of elegant juiciness and full-bodied substance." Weinwisser

"Rich, sparkling ruby colour with a fine garnet sheen. Memorable nose with lots of fleshy plum and blackberry fruit, plus rose petals and tobacco spice. Rich and juicy in the attack and on the palate, shows wonderfully integrated tannins, opens up in many layers, with a delicate minty final." Falstaff

"Medium to deep ruby red with a light, brick-coloured rim. Complex, spicy-minty oak with firm cherry fruit underneath. Lots of youthful, tangy cherry fruit with a deep layer of chewy tannins. Very complete and beautiful." Jancis Robinson

"The Tenuta Luce 2019 Brunello di Montalcino has a good amount of oak spice with campfire ash, forest floor, dried cherry, cassis, rye bread and something floral like hydrangea or pressed roses. There is also a balsamic note with sambuca or aniseed. It is a medium to full-bodied Brunello with flavours of dried fruit and a considerable alcohol content of 15% on the long finish." Wine Advocate

"This ripe and opulent red wine is packed with flavours of black cherries, blackberries and plums and captures your attention from the first sip. Vibrant and solidly built, with notes of wild thyme, earth and sweet spices, it shows excellent balance and length and remains fresh and juicy on the finish." Wine Spectator

"Another intense year for the Brunello from Tenuta Luce. Elegance and spiciness on the nose, with notes of cranberry, peony and a hint of chinotto, with a hint of cinnamon on the finish. Salty on the palate, with hints of blueberries and floral notes." Luca Gardini

"Black cherries and blueberries with undertones of walnut and lavender. Medium-bodied with very fine tannins that run the length of the wine and caress every inch of the palate. Fresh and lively. A wine for the cellar, but already fantastic to savour now." James Suckling

Barolo Riserva Ravera Vigna Elena is a wonderful wine from Elvio Cogno and, not surprisingly, as is so often the case, the best from the collection of the family business from Novello. It is aged in large Slavonian oak barrels and only produced in selected vintages. It exudes delicate truffle notes and aromas of wild berries with a hint of exotic spice. The wine is soft, lush and well-structured, making your mouth water. This Barolo shows the power and inner structure of the Ravera Cru and should age beautifully over the next two decades. SUPERIORE.DE

"Comes from a one-hectare vineyard planted with a special Nebbiolo clone: fresh berry notes in combination with orange zest and balsamic spice flavours; precise evolution, carried by polished tannins and a crisp acidity, berry, invigorating, long and full of finesse." Vinum

"Sparkling ruby colour with a pronounced garnet rim. Fine, inviting nose, opens with notes of blood orange, plus fresh plum, some leather in the background. Lots of juicy, present fruit on the palate, clear flavours of fresh raspberries, pithy, dense tannins, built up in many layers, rich and full-bodied on the final, salty." Falstaff

"Pale ruby red colour. Lots of minerals on the nose and only slowly raspberry fruit and iodine notes. A slow-burning wine. Great freshness, length and juiciness. Multi-layered, with lots of tannins on the finish. You can approach it now, because it's hard to resist." Jancis Robinson

"The Barolo Riserva Ravera Vigna Elena 2018 is an airy, ethereal wine. Dried cherry, tobacco, incense, dried flowers, spices and leather are the first to open up, supported by Ravera acidity and tannin." Vinous

"This elegant, expressive, straightforward and powerful red wine shows flavours of strawberries, cherries, rose hips, eucalyptus, juniper, iron and salt. Supple and nimble, with a line of resonant tannins on the finish." Wine Spectator

"This is an elegant, flavoursome and refined Barolo. Medium-bodied, with notes of sour cherries, orange peel, mahogany and balsamic notes framed by silky tannins. Transparent character. Already delicious now, but even better from 2026." James Suckling

Medium, radiant ruby red. Complex nose of sweet and cedar wood, paired with Mediterranean maquis and delicate sweet cherry. In the mouth, balsamic notes, very finely woven tannins and a wonderful complexity that envelops the juicy fruit core and gives the wine an impressive depth and length. The elegance is also very impressive and will certainly increase with further maturity. SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep aromas of cherries and flowers; compact construction, the tannins racy and well integrated, beautiful melt and polish and of great elegance." Vinum

"Dense spicy bouquet, tart fruit and spice on the palate; elegant, compact style with racy flow, very classic, noticeable tannin and grip, nice freshness and ethereality. Needs time." Weinwisser

"Brilliant medium ruby red. A seductive richness on the nose, combined with cool red fruits and notes of iron and black pepper. The spicy note on the finish adds depth to the fresh red fruit, accompanied by a long vein of persistent grainy tannins. Super-elegant." Jancis Robinson

"Castello Romitorio's classic Brunello, which comes from the estate's highest plots - between 350 and 450 metres - embodies the vintage's grace without sacrificing depth or flavour. The aromas are ethereal at first, then join the scents of rosehip, liquorice root and juniper. The sweetness of the pure cherry in the mouth is balanced by a juicy acidity and powdery tannins. The wine has a sneaky substance and a long-lasting presence. The Filo di Seta may have more reserves for ageing, but I can't help but be completely charmed (for the price) by the sheer elegance of this wine." Decanter

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino impresses with a blend of dried citrus peel, cedar chips, floral scrub, black cherry and Tuscan dust. It is soft, even buoyant, with a depth of velvety, textured red and blue fruits and sweet, liquid purple tones colouring the palate. The 2018 finishes fresh and long with notes of wild blueberries and a touch of balsamic spice, framed by a layer of fine tannin. This is a complete success for the vintage." Vinous

"I like the dried purple undertones of the red and blue fruits, along with some walnut shell and olive. There is so much flavour here, packed into a compact core framed by silky, firm tannins. Dense and concentrated. Try it after 2024." James Suckling

"The Castello Romitorio 2018 Brunello di Montalcino shows crisp and tart fruit with cherry, cassis and wild plum. This medium-bodied wine offers plenty of freshness and brightness in a vintage that was challenging for many. This expression is unique thanks to the inner energy on display; the red fruits are prominent and the wine's balanced acidity rounds it all out." Wine Advocate

"A graceful red hallmarked by cherry, strawberry, rose, mineral and Mediterranean herbs. Lacy and succulent yet firm, ending on the minerally side. Vibrant and long." Wine Spectator

Tasca d'Almerita recalls the first vintage of their legendary Rosso del Conte from the San Lucio vineyard with this lush Riserva del Conte. Ruby red, the aromas of berries, cherries and spices have wonderfully taken the wood into their midst. A lively taste, dense tannins and an endless finish complete the perfect picture. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, elegant ruby red. Restrained, yet balanced nose, appears multilayered, albeit filigree. On the palate very juicy, dense, with clear fruit and tightly meshed enveloping tannin, shows elegant pressure, builds up in many layers, great length and finesse." Falstaff

"Deep crimson. A little less immediate and floral than the normal 2016 with brooding fruit and touches of dark spice. Tightly wound and still very embryonic fruit palate with vibrant, almost linear acidity. The fruit slowly unfurls on the palate over a rich layer of polished, fine tannins. Finely balanced but in need of much more time." Jancis Robinson

"The 2016 vintage was characterised by a mild and dry winter, a cool spring and a summer with well-distributed rainfall. Summer temperatures were not very high and ensured a slow and complete ripening of the grapes. Grapes were harvested on 29 September. 'The vintage was deemed worthy of being sealed in numbered bottles,' said Corrado Maurigi, estate manager. The wine is extremely youthful with a vinous, violet character. Vibrant red cherry fruit dominates over a balsamic whiff, with a floral bouquet in the background. Silky first, then velvety, it's a precise and crisp wine - although lacking layers at the moment due to the youthfulness." Decanter

"The 2016 Riserva del Conte Vigneto San Lucio keeps you at the edge of the glass, with a dark yet gorgeous display of licorice-tinged currants and plums complemented by notes of stone dust, mint and hints of spiced orange. This is elegance personified, casting a polished display of black cherries across a core of vibrant acidity, complementary notes of sour citrus and wild herbs mounting toward the close. You hardly notice its tannic heft until the very end, as this tapers off with harmony, showing classically dry, persistent yet still so enjoyable, even at this young stage. That said, the best is truly yet to come, and collectors will benefit from cellaring this for at least another three to five years." Vinous

"Only made in the best vintages, the Tasca Conti d'Almerita 2016 Sicilia Contea di Sclafani Riserva del Conte Tenuta Regaleali sees its fruit sourced from the Vigneto San Lucio in a classic winemaking subzone on the western side of the island. Made with a blend of the indigenous grapes Perricone and Nero d'Avola, the wine is streamlined and elegant with enormous persistence that can be counted in many long minutes. The bouquet shows dried cherry, plum, leather and a touch of scorched earth or grilled rosemary. This is a spectacular wine that sits at the top of the Sicilian wine pyramid. I love the mineral interlude with granite and crushed slate that appears on the close." Wine Advocate

After much anticipation, today we present the second vintage of an exceptional Sangiovese from Querciabella's single vineyard Ruffoli.

Back in 2007, the winery embarked on the cru project with the aim of emphasising the natural elegance and vitality of Sangiovese and the essential value of what the Latins call the "genius loci". What began as an experiment and a challenge evolved into years of constant but calculated work to identify the best vineyards in Chianti Classico. The best winemaking and ageing methods were then applied to enhance the particular influence of the origin on the texture, flavour and character of the wine.

The altitude of over 500 metres above sea level identified in this way gives the wine great depth, balance and brilliant acidity. This great Sangiovese acidity combined with well-ripened tannins, excellent structure and just as much flavour make 2018 one of the most balanced vintages of the last decade. The slow maturation in wood for around 18 months reinforces the site-specific identity of the grape variety and brings a Chianti Classico to the glass that deserves the designation Gran Selezione like no other. SUPERIORE.DE

"Again focuses on the charming side with plenty of sweet fruit and a velvety drinking flow, with herbal notes alongside the red berry fruit flavours." Weinwisser

"Bright ruby red colour. Nose of precious wood, rich wild berries, citrus, cherries, toast, liquorice, eucalyptus, after some time coconut. Polished on the palate, with juicy, tightly meshed tannins and well-developed fruit, currently still with some wood overhang, coconut on the final." Falstaff

"Medium garnet red colour and a hint of oak on the nose. The particularly ripe fruit belies the extremely appetising character of the carefully selected Sangiovese parcel from which this wine comes. Chestnut notes and still a lot of tannin." Jancis Robinson

"This is my first tasting of a Gran Selezione from Querciabella. The 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Querciabella sources its fruit from the Ruffoli estate in Greve in Chianti, whose vines are planted on slate-rich galestro and sandstone soils at a cool altitude of 500 metres. This vintage is open and accessible, with warm fruit, tobacco, gravel and dried roses. There is a hint of soft, ripe cherry." Wine Advocate

"Sweet plums and damsons with a balsamic note. Juicy and delicate with fine-grained tannins that frame the wine beautifully." Decanter

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2018 is a powerful, dense wine. The frost in 2017 affected the potential yield of the next vintage, which probably explains the sheer intensity of this wine. Dark cherry, plum, mocha, leather and sage all saturate the palate. The wine has tremendous creaminess and depth. I can't wait to see how the 2018 ages, as it's a pretty big wine by Querciabella standards." Vinous

"This wine has aromas of dark plum, peach, bay leaf, mint and vanilla. It is medium to full-bodied with a deliciously complex palate. Beautiful interplay of stone fruit, herbs and spices. Long and elegant, with very fine and concentrated tannins. Fantastic purity." James Suckling

"The second vintage of an ambitious project, from the only Ruffoli vineyard cultivated using biodynamic methods, an exceptional Gran Selezione. Wild plum on the nose, with notes of chinotto and bay leaf, then nutmeg. Spicy on the palate, with a fruity, citrusy finish and a long finish." Luca Gardini

Marco Ricasoli Firidolfi's latest and strictly limited creation (only 1,659 magnum bottles were filled) was named after Ridolfo, an ancestor of the family. The deliberate blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon and 50% Pugnitello symbolises the combination of tradition and modernity and at the same time impressively represents the terroir of the Chianti hills.

Dark ruby red, refined bouquet of blackberry, dried plum and eucalyptus. The palate has a firm, taut core, layers of sour cherry, spicy notes such as pepper and liquorice, with a powerful and slightly balsamic finish. The well-proportioned acidity and characteristic tannins guide this fleshy, muscular red into a furious, long-lasting final. A wine full of character and very unique! SUPERIORE.DE

"Inky, dark purple-ruby. While exuding a deep, layered blackberry and cherry perfume, with the most understated yet present oak note imaginable. After aeration, there is a whiff of Médoc, but the palate is less dry and more fruit-driven than you’d expect from a bordeaux. Soft, drying tannins and lots of succulent acidity." Jancis Robinson

"Dark, elegant ruby colour with a delicately brightening rim. Initially somewhat closed on the nose, reminiscent of sealing wax and plenty of spice, needs some time to open up. On the palate with a creamy entry and clear fruit, opens up with savoury, grippy tannins, present and dense." Falstaff

"The 2017 Ridolfo is an intoxicating, exotic wine. Lush and opulent, with bright acids and almost seamless tannins, the 2017 Ridolfo is a very special wine. Mocha, espresso, liquorice, menthol, pine and dried herbs all come together in a strong, deeply structured wine. The blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Pugnitello is remarkable. The only thing the 2017 needs is time." Vinous

"Pithy bouquet of dark forest fruits and spices, topped with notes of undergrowth; powerful yet nuanced course, the robust tannins and acidity in balance, finishes long on notes of berries, liquorice and undergrowth. A wine of character that needs to mature." Vinum

Back in 2007, the winery embarked on the cru project with the aim of emphasising the natural elegance and vitality of Sangiovese and the essential value of what the Latins call the "genius loci". What began as an experiment and a challenge evolved into years of constant but calculated work to identify the best vineyards in Chianti Classico. The best winemaking and ageing methods were then applied to enhance the particular influence of the origin on the texture, flavour and character of the wine.

The altitude of over 500 metres above sea level identified in this way gives the wine great depth, balance and brilliant acidity. This great Sangiovese acidity combined with well-ripened tannins, excellent structure and just as much flavour make 2019 one of the most balanced vintages of the last decade. The slow maturation in wood for around 18 months reinforces the site-specific identity of the grape variety and brings a Chianti Classico to the glass that deserves the designation Gran Selezione like no other. SUPERIORE.DE

"Of purist beauty. Finely spiced nose, autumn leaves, hibiscus and rose petals, red berries. Well-dosed power, fine grip with gripping tannins, perfectly integrated into a certain fullness, juicy blood oranges and ripe raspberries, keeps the balance and finesse beautifully, lingers for an incredibly long time." Weinwisser

"Linear bouquet, complex and yet seductively elegant; full-bodied, the ripe acidity and fine-grained tannins in balance, the finish is incredibly long with numerous fruity and balsamic nuances. Fun on its own, but also a perfect accompaniment to powerful dishes." Vinum

"Crimson red. Really very splendid. The appetising nature of Sangiovese is evident here with real breadth and depth. The tannins are present, but only in the background and the acidity is perfectly balanced with the savoury fruit. No excessive sweetness. Already subtle and satisfying. But this wine will certainly have a long life too. Really complete and beautiful." Jancis Robinson

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Querciabella 2019 offers additional density and richness in the form of blackcurrants, spices and floral earth. The wine is very concentrated, has a soft texture and a dry, mineral flavour on the finish. It is classic in presentation and accessible in approach." Wine Advocate

"This red wine has matured considerably and offers intense aromas and flavours of cherry, raspberry, plum, earth and tobacco. The tannins are well integrated yet firm, while the finish picks up notes of wild herbs and minerals. It shows excellent power, balance and complexity." Wine Spectator

"It is attractive with fresh flavours of cherries and raspberries as well as ground cloves, hazelnuts and crushed stones. Full and structured with chalky tannins that are crisp and lively. Steady and mineral on the finish." James Suckling

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2019 is brilliant. Blue and violet fruits, lavender, mint and liquorice come together in this exquisite, elegant Gran Selezione. All elements are wonderfully balanced. The 2019 is a blend from vineyards in Ruffoli (Greve)." Vinous

Fuligni's superb 2019 Riserva shows a beautiful tertiary intensity with wild berries and plums, followed by balsamic herbs, liquorice, grilled herbs and spices. We are delighted by the sheer opulence and richness of this wine, which remains pleasantly medium-bodied throughout, yet produces plenty of elegance and sufficient power on the other side. This Riserva from a top vintage never feels too heavy or too flat, but impresses with its disciplined energy and vitality. With each successive glass, the wine becomes a perfectly balanced world of modernity and tradition that is unrivalled in its wine form. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. On the nose, chalky, mineral sour cherry and raspberry with a complex, exotic-spicy note. Seductive purity of fruit on the palate. Lots of concentrated sweet red fruit, but with the right dose of tangy acidity and tactile, chewy tannins. Sensationally balanced." Jancis Robinson

"Fuligni's 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva shows its sultry and savoury side with medium-grained tannins and added structure surrounding a core of dark blackberry fruit. The alcohol content is high at 15%, but this full-bodied vintage does a very good job of hiding it. This Riserva finishes with notes of root beer and sauna wood." Wine Advocate

"The aromas of dried berries, orange peel and flowers lead to a medium body with ultra-fine tannins that blend well into the wine, giving it energy and length. Beautiful ripe fruit with a juicy and flavourful finish. A classic and beautifully proportioned young Brunello. Drinkable, but better after 2026 and beyond." James Suckling

"The Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2019 is a seductress with a multitude of cinnamon, cloves, allspice, black cherry and a hint of laurel. On the palate, Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is radiant and classic, with lively ripe red fruit and sweet spices, perfectly accompanied by a core of brilliant acidity. Its minerality emerges on the finish, which is tactile and salty. A web of fine-grained tannins envelops the senses with youthful balance, nuances of cedar and inner rose. The 2019 is captivating and made for the cellar. What a beauty." Vinous

"The Fuligni Riserva, which is only produced in vintages with ideal ripeness and a strong acid backbone to guarantee longevity, strives to fully express the characteristics of a vintage. The 2019 edition is a complete success with its fragrance, regal structure and inner glamour that illuminates the depth of the wine. Intense cherry, orange zest, truffles and forest roots are all on the nose. The fruit is unadulterated and even supple and sinuous, but the tannins have a countervailing bite. Spicy pomegranate resounds from the core of this elegantly weighted gem; everything is neatly in place and unfolds in a flavourful measured gait." Decanter

Barolo Brunate comes from the heart of the appellation in La Morra and is one of the most expressive Barolos in Ceretto's single-vineyard collection. The vines are over 50 years old and the total production of the wine is therefore vanishingly small.

Shiny ruby garnet. On the nose, finely balanced aromas of dark cherry, rose blossom, mint and lavender, followed by cassis and plum. More fruit-driven on the palate than its "colleagues", it then impressively shows its origins with its depth and complexity. A red full of personality and character, which will only develop its full potential in the further course of its bottle ageing. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, medium dense ruby garnet, light rim. Presents itself in the nose with emphatically spicy notes, then lots of fresh plum, in the background slightly after ginger. On the palate grippy tannin in many layers, embedded in fine melting, after tobacco, firm pressure in the final." Falstaff

"Lustrous mid ruby with an orange tinge. A hint of oatmeal, a tingle of pepper and concentrated and fresh raspberry fruit with touches of baking spice. Great concentration of raspberry fruit yet really light of touch and bags of crunchy tannins. Long fragrant finish." Jancis Robinson

"A dense, firmly structured red, with black cherry and plum fruit buried beneath tar, menthol and tobacco flavors. Fresh and energetic, ending with grainy tannins and a lightly chewy feel." Wine Spectator

"Sweet red fruit on the nose and palate, together with a sandy mineral note. Medium-to full-bodied with very fine, lightly firm tannins and a clean, focused finish. More delicate character in 2018. Best from 2024." James Suckling

"The organic 2018 Barolo Brunate is angular and firm. Despite the softer character of the vintage, you still feel the tannins and the structure of this celebrated MGA site. There is balsam herb, dried lavender, rose and candied cherry. The wine is generous and round." Wine Advocate

"Despite a moderate acidity - which is due to both the vintage and the southern exposition of Brunate - this Ceretto shows a compelling, delicious character. Liquorice, smoky woodland notes, dried cherry, tar, cinnamon and tea leaf aromas are loaded with red currants and strawberries. Full bodied, it has slightly oaky tannins and a dusty yet ripe finish. Filigreed elegance." Decanter

Ceretto's Barolo Bussia comes from one of the most famous cru sites bordering the municipalities of Monforte d'Alba and Barolo, it draws its Nebbiolo fruit from a 7,000 sqm parcel in Bussia Soprana in Monforte d'Alba. Just 3,500 1/1 bottles and 200 magnums are bottled.

Sparkling, luminous garnet red. On the nose, it seduces with delicate notes of wild berries, white cherry, liquorice and truffle. On the palate, it is explosive, lively and full of energy. Its rich and lively aromas of cranberries and pomegranate are very finely elaborated, impressive its sweetness in the middle of the palate and the fine creaminess and its finely meshed tannin, which is characteristic of the best Bussia Barolos. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium red; intense fruit notes, inviting; dense, powerful, depth of fruit, lots of fine tannin, length." Merum

"Just mid ruby with orange tinges. Spicy, complex and brooding nose with hints of cardamon and stony, minerally hints, which normally come out only after longer bottle ageing. With aeration it shows impressive concentration of cherry fruit with a complex oak hints and a layer of succulent marasca-cherry fruit. Lots of juicy acidity and really light of touch while very long. Fine tannins cling to the fruit." Jancis Robinson

"Rose, violet, camphor and oak-driven spice aromas come to the forefront on this lovely red. Focused and elegant, the vibrant palate features juicy red cherry, pomegranate, licorice and a hint of coconut framed in taut, refined tannins. It's well balanced, with bright acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2018 Bussia sports lovely aromas of crunchy redcurrants, rose petals, animal musk and sandalwood. It's all about finesse and exotic charm, the slim silhouette and textural delicacy strengthened by the mid-weight style of the vintage. Perfumed and expressive, with supple tannins and wafts of oriental spice extending the aftertaste, this is a wonderfully approachable Barolo." Decanter

"Here is a relatively new addition to the Ceretto portfolio (first introduced with the 2015 vintage and made in the years since). The organic 2018 Barolo Bussia has a bright note of sweet cherry or candied orange that frames the wine's generous, open-knit character. There are some dusty earth aromas that add layering and texture to the background." Wine Advocate

"Quite a tight nose for now, but already showing lovely aromas of raspberries, together with perfumed, stony minerals and roses. Full-bodied with a compact palate and an array of firm, spicy tannins that builds steadily through the finish. This is excellent Barolo that’s only just beginning its journey. Tiny production. Cellar it until at least 2025." James Suckling

Barolo Ravera comes from a single vineyard with almost 50-year-old vines. In the glass, it impresses with a strong, aromatic opening aroma. Bright, precise and finely chiselled, the Ravera captures all the goodness the vintage has to offer. Cherry, sweet mint, candy and expressive floral notes get an extra kick of inner sweetness from the Ravera's natural energy. There is so much to look forward to as the wine develops over the next few years! SUPERIORE.DE

"Radiant, clear ruby red with delicately brightening rim. Slightly lactic nose at the beginning, then of rose petals, rose hips, blood oranges, also of dried tomatoes, sealing wax in the final. Very juicy on the palate entry, opens up with tight tannin, seems very balanced and coherent, keeps coming back, again very juicy on the final." Falstaff

"Lustrous mid ruby. Great depth with hints of white pepper. Minerally notes and fine notes of oatmeal. Succulent sour cherry with super-fine, long tannins. Long and still youthful." Jancis Robinson

"Nice complexity to the nose, showing red cherry, walnut shell and pungent earth. Hints of pressed flowers, too. The palate is medium-bodied with lightly firm, velvety tannins and a very tightly wound core of fruit and tannin at the heart of the wine. The lighter structure is set, reflecting the vintage, but there’s enough going on for positive development with bottle age. Refined feel to this." James Suckling

"The Elvio Cogno 2018 Barolo Ravera is becoming one of the most important wines in Novello, and it performs very nicely in this more challenging vintage. In fact, 2018 helps to cement Ravera's steadfast reputation precisely because it performs so well despite spells of humidity and heat. The wine shows small-berry detailing with rust and crushed stone at the back. There is a point of bitterness that accompanies the tannins of this full-bodied wine." Wine Advocate

"This is alluring for the strawberry, cherry and currant flavors, with details of iron, tar and tobacco. Starts out silky in texture, then the structure sneaks up on you as this red builds to a long finish." Wine Spectator

"Mostly floral aromas of rose, violet and pot pourri, with strawberry and darker fruits allied to the vibrancy of a balsamic whiff, introduce a savoury blood orange flavour on the dense and weighted palate. It has ripe and dusty tannins with great extraction on the mid-palate, crisp acidity and the fruit concentration to achieve an amazing balance. It will gain further complexity with ageing." Decanter

"This beautiful, luminously hued Barolo opens with enticing scents of perfumed berry, dark spice, eucalyptus, violet and forest floor. The savory palate combines elegance and structure, delivering juicy red cherry, raspberry compote, star anise and wild mint framed in taut, refined tannins that give it a smooth but firm texture. Bright acidity keeps energized. What a stunner." Wine Enthusiast

"From the renowned cru of Novello, with southern exposure, an amazing Barolo from one of the historical wine-producer families of this typology. The nose has notes of yellow peach and persimmon, then laurel, closed by nuances of white pepper. Palate with sensations of red orange and pomegranate, very saline and clean, with a return of yellow fruit." Luca Gardini

Until the regulations were changed in 2016, 600 metres was the upper limit for Brunello di Montalcino. The grapes for Passo del Lume Spento come from a single vineyard located on a sandstone plateau at 621 metres above sea level. It displays fresh aromas of lavender and fennel with warm, fragrant earth and a subtle smoky note. The medium-bodied, crisp and sinewy wine tastes of red berries pressed from rocky earth, accompanied by tangy acidity and remarkable freshness. The finish is still primary and mineral, with crisp tannins that give this single-vineyard cru a remarkable bite and great ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Shiny and straight medium ruby red. Concentrated and refined on the nose. Multi-layered. Lots of juicy red fruit, underpinned with super-fine, long tannins. Super-elegant, mineral and long." Jancis Robinson

"A lacy, translucent version, this red displays cherry, plum, earth, underbrush and iron flavors, with a burly presence of tannins guarding the finish. Racy for the vintage, with a strong grip on the salty aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Passo del Lume Spento opens with a mentholated freshness, while crushed stone and minty herbs complicate dusty, dried strawberries. The Brunello di Montalcino Passo del Spento has a juicy character and is incredibly fresh. It shows its minerality in the foreground, while a tart wave of wild berries descends on the palate. The finish is exciting, powerful and primary, with a layer of fine-grained tannins balanced by a hint of residual acidity. This is a spice bomb that nevertheless has the energy to balance." Vinous

"Campinoti's highest single-vineyard bottling comes from a one-hectare plot planted in 2011 at an altitude of 621 metres. The third release as a Brunello, reaching its peak with the 2019 vintage. The aromas are still restrained, but in the mouth, scents of white flowers and roses unfold against a background of sour cherry and pomegranate. The mouth-cleansing tannins are straightforward and the lively acidity drives the wine across the palate. It is lean but not bony and has enough flesh to harmonise the structure. A truly exciting wine with a sinewy, chiselled personality." Decanter

"This wine kisses the sky with fruit from vines planted in 2012 at the highest point of the appellation. This is a wine to keep an eye on in the future, especially as these vines age. The Le Ragnaie 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Passo del Lume Spento has a fine and direct bouquet with vibrant red fruits, cranberries, pressed rose and rosemary flowers. The fruit and floral components are very pronounced, and the earthiness that we find in the other wines is not as pronounced. Instead, it is mineral and salty. Crisp fruit and powdery tannins make for a very long and polished finish with an alcohol content of 13.5 %. This wine is fluid and more of a shape-shifter." Wine Advocate

Brunello di Montalcino Petroso is only produced in the best years and in an extremely limited quantity - just 1,200 bottles of the 2019 vintage will be released onto the market. The exciting bouquet combines rich dark fruits with savoury spices, sage and violets to create a captivating spectacle. Soft and enveloping on the palate, initially quite feminine, with a mix of vibrant acids and minerals giving way to wild berries and pretty inner flowers. This cool, balanced and savoury wine already shows enormous purity and finesse when young, but with its grippy tannins it definitely needs more years to develop fully. With such a limited production, it is a shame that more people will not be able to enjoy this exceptionally beautiful Brunello. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant and just medium ruby red. A little richer on the nose than the Passo del Lume Spento. Perfumed raspberry and cherry with hints of stone. On the palate, it is very elegant and heavy, with fragrant fruit and firm but polished tannins that linger until the end." Jancis Robinson

"This is juicy and expressive, displaying cherry, raspberry, mineral and wild herb flavors. Fresh and harmonious, with bright acidity and well-integrated tannins providing support, this is still a bit tight on the finish, but everything is in the right place." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Petroso offers a dark, rich, inviting blend of black raspberry, mint leaf and worn leather. Silky smooth and elegant to the touch, it flows easily across the palate, presenting crisp red berry fruit enlivened by lively acidity. A wall of grippy tannins lingers as the 2019 rejuvenates primly and intensely, promising many years of further development. I expect the Petroso to gain weight over time, which will round out this otherwise great wine. The potential here is incredibly great." Vinous

"The character of this wine is more approachable and open. The Le Ragnaie 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Petroso is less ethereal and more grounded, with an obvious delivery of fruit (and more primary intensity) framed by caramel, light tobacco leaf, redcurrant, cherry and wild plum. An herbal element also emerges, with white pepper and something fun reminiscent of cashew celery root. The mouthfeel leans towards chalk, and there's a hint of minerality with wet limestone or rose quartz. The tannins are controlled, the texture is medium weight and the finish is very elegant. These qualities give this wine great potential." Wine Advocate

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 peel, 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

"Evocative and aromatic, this red features cherry, rose, white pepper, eucalyptus, iron and tobacco flavors. Firmly built, with dense tannins and a savory 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Vigna del Sorbo vineyard is located directly in front of the winery. 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.

Dark ruby red with light red highlights. Deep and initially unfathomable on the nose. But any spirit of discovery will be enchanted when it opens slowly and very balanced with red cherries, redcurrants, earth, sage and liquorice, revealing more facets with each passing minute. Finally, the mouthfeel shows a similar degree of extreme flavour balance with very fine but still young tannins. This medium-bodied structure, coupled with the wine's natural acidity, is an important guarantee of its great longevity. Our clear conclusion: there is not only a lot to discover here, but also to admire. Chapeau! SUPERIORE.DE

"Promising aromas of raspberries and flowers, with subtle notes of pepper; pithy on the palate, perfectly integrated acidity, lots of juice, power, plump tannins, character and a wonderful spicy final on notes of ripe cherries and sandalwood." Vinum

"Dark ruby red colour with a delicately brightening rim. On the nose, pronounced spicy aromas of ripe wild berries, rich Amarena cherries and clear pepper spice, with a leathery aftertaste. Tight-knit and pithy on the palate, spreads out with grip, very juicy, with a subtle salty undertone, powerful and long with plenty of character, still needs some bottle ageing." Falstaff

"Medium to deep ruby red colour. Spicy, mineral, elegant and a little reserved on the nose. Deep, juicy cherry fruit, supported by the right dose of chewy tannins. Very long. Concentrated, lively and relaxed at the same time." Jancis Robinson

"This wine is elegant, with floral, cherry, raspberry and mineral flavours. A hint of earth shines through, while the finish is graceful." Wine Spectator

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo 2019 is a powerful, virile wine with enormous depth and equally impressive tannins. An explosion of dark fruits, herbs, chocolate, menthol and spices flows from the glass. Big tannins and a hint of rusticity suggest that the 2019 will not be one of the finest sorbos, but it is a good effort for this year." Vinous

"Vigna del Sorbo lies at an altitude of 400 metres and has the classic Galestro soil of Chianti Classico. The warm, south-west facing vineyard typically produces a powerful, intense wine that requires ageing. The 2019 shows all the wild, penetrating characteristics of this site, but it quickly comes into harmony and reveals its balance and precision. The wood-accentuated notes of smoke and vanilla give way to pressed violets, rosemary and liquorice. Luscious red cherry and dark plum flesh is enveloped by long, layered, chalky tannins. The palate reveals an energetic bar of unwavering acidity that gives the wine a linear feel. Fennel and crushed stone linger on the finish." Decanter

"Usually excellent Sangiovese in purity of great elegance from Fontodi, with the step ahead of a great vintage. Nose of freshness, marasche, with officinal hints of citron thyme, mouth with a nice acidic shoulder, salty tannins, crispiness and incisiveness. Persistent." Luca Gardini

"This iconic wine has a whole new energy as it is now part of an exciting range of potential Gran Selezione wines being made at Fontodi. Two new additions to the portfolio (Pastrolo from cool Lamole and Terrazze San Leonlino from Panzano) help to give greater context to the organic 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo. This wine naturally benefits from many years of experience, and the identity of Vigna del Sorbo is well established. Soil connoisseurs, however, will take great pleasure in comparing the Vigna del Sorbo from slate-rich Galestro soils with the calcareous alternative from Terrazze San Leonlino. I lean towards the Vigna del Sorbo because I find the mineral notes of pencil and iron ore so appealing. These dusty notes are rounded out by sweet cherry fruit, plum and spice. Rising alcohol levels can be a problem in sun-drenched Panzano, and the wine team lets the vines grow higher in summer to provide shade and takes other active measures to combat this problem." Wine Advocate

Ceretto's Barolo Bussia comes from one of the most famous cru sites bordering the municipalities of Monforte d'Alba and Barolo, sourcing its Nebbiolo fruit from a 7,000 square metre plot in Bussia Soprana in Monforte d'Alba. Just 3,500 1/1 bottles and 200 magnums are bottled.

Sparkling, bright garnet red colour. On the nose, it seduces with delicate notes of wild berries, white cherry, liquorice and truffle. The palate is explosive, lively and full of energy. Its rich and lively flavours of cranberry and pomegranate are very finely elaborated, its sweetness in the middle of the palate and the fine creaminess and fine-meshed tannin, which is characteristic of the best Bussia-Barolos, are impressive. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant medium ruby red colour. More concentration and depth with a clear, mineral core and concentrated but embryonic fruit. On the palate, a fantastic tannic centre with raspberry fruit wrapped in fine, firm tannins. Long and sensationally balanced." Jancis Robinson

"A fine and open Bussia with a smoky, grilled meat and spice character in the plum fruit. Medium to full body. Soft, velvety and juicy. This wine will develop into something very serious. Needs three or four years to open up. Best after 2025." James Suckling

"The Barolo Bussia 2019 is rich, deep and explosive, with all the profound, spicy and balsamic notes that are so typical of Bussia. Bussia is a broad, lush Barolo that is impressive from start to finish. All the elements are very well balanced. There is plenty of tannin, but it is well integrated into the wine. After some time in the glass, the wine reveals its inner perfume and explosive energy. This aromatically beguiling, multi-layered Barolo is magnificent." Vinous

"The Ceretto 2019 Barolo Bussia is an organic wine and a wine of beautiful depth and streamlined intensity. This Barolo offers aromas of dark fruit, but also of crushed stone, rust, a hint of exotic spices or grilled herbs and fresh liquorice root. The ensemble is beautiful, and what stands out most is the polished persistence and silky texture of the mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

"Bright ruby red colour with a delicately brightening rim. Expressive and clear nose of raspberries, cedar wood and some cold smoke, with a candied citrus fruit finish. Compact and tightly woven on the palate, with great tension and rich pressure, lots of salt, great length!" Falstaff

"The elegant nose opens with pristine cherry aromas supported by subtle notes of clove, anise, rosewood and tea. The focused palate continues to highlight ripe cherries and evolves into savory elements. Well-crafted tannins and crunchy acidity give the wine vigor and lift. The wine is generous, rich and superbly balanced." Wine Enthusiast

Rose petals, spices and red-coloured fruit float in the glass, supported by fine, racy tannins. On the palate, the typical, medium-bodied characteristics of Bricco delle Viole are evident, while the contours are soft and the wine's personality demands the next sip. Vajra fans should give it a few more years to mature, despite its current accessibility. SUPERIORE.DE

"Beguiling aromas of stone fruit, dried flowers and tobacco; harmonious, albeit still very youthful structure, the tannins as if chiselled from stone, great length. Excellent food companion that impresses with its wealth of finesse." Vinum

"Rich fruit and flowers with real spread across the palate. Impressive. Polished leather and liquorice. Dry, but not too dry, finish. Very fine and fresh. To bite into." Jancis Robinson

Bricco delle Viole is the vineyard that has taught us patience and naturally defines the style of our craft," says Aldo Vaira about this MGA. Graceful and austere at the same time, it has sweet violet and pomegranate flavours, restrained in style but not without complexity in depth. The attack is firm, with steely acidity and very austere tannins on the gums, dusty and muscular. It will soften as it matures in the bottle." Decanter

"Flavours of gravel, flowers and berries merge into a medium to full body with firm and velvety tannins and a juicy finish. It is very original now and needs time to develop in the bottle." James Suckling

"Bright ruby-garnet colour with a subtly brightening rim. Somewhat restrained on the nose, a little sealing wax after aeration, raspberries, fine earthy notes, cranberries. Creamy entry on the palate, but immediately shows power and muscle, plenty of complex tannins, savoury, deep, powerful." Falstaff

"A juicy Barolo with lively acidity and a fluid profile that exudes aromas and flavours of cherries, raspberries, mown hay, minerals and eucalyptus. Taut yet long, with outstanding potential." Wine Spectator

"The Barolo Bricco delle Viole 2019 offers a beguiling combination of depth and energy. Dark and strong in the glass, but also quite restrained, the 2019 will need a few more years to unfold. Black cherry, graphite, crushed rocks, mint, sage and incense open up in the glass, but only with some restraint. I particularly like the way the 2019 opens up in its sonorous, extended finish, but it remains a decidedly brooding Barolo whose best days are still far in the future." Vinous

"Lifted aromas of crushed cherries and raspberries mixed with blue violets and savory spice on the nose. Super-fine tannins with crushed chalk; very floral with a bright and lifted palate. Mouth-watering acidity. Alluring, captivating, energetic and precise." Wine Enthusiast

"With its high altitude in the hills west of Barolo, Bricco delle Viole is a world apart in terms of soils (with marl and fossils from Sant'Agata) and even harvest times. Slow and careful ageing, typical of the 2019 vintage, gives it a very delicate and ethereal expression with floral notes, wild mint and liquorice. This organic wine is solid in composition and structure." Wine Advocate

"A great classic of elegance, on the nose notes of red raspberries and clementine peel, a hint of nutmeg and wild iris. On the palate, it is juicy and exciting, with a return of red fruits and spicy notes. It finishes with a floral hint." Luca Gardini

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 fruits 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 combine 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

Montosoli lovers will be anything but disappointed by the archetype of the 2016 vintage. In this exceptional year, this special single vineyard shows a beautifully fragrant and floral bouquet that exactly meets the expectations of connoisseurs. Thus, for us, this edition represents the ideal interpretation of grape variety and terroir like hardly any other. The Sangiovese grape sounds bright and audible here from the glass - with nuances of small berries and floral impressions of rose, violet and lavender. In the drink, its complexity and multi-layeredness is rounded off by subtle notes of anise, cola and liquorice sticks. This fabulous wine, which is already inspiring, is always balancingly soft and silky and will - even if one hardly thinks it possible - gain in refinement and expression after a few more years of ageing! SUPERIORE.DE

"Seductive raspberry-scented wine with juice and polish; pithy on the palate, acidity well integrated, tight yet noticeable tannins, pleases with its polish, demonstrates finesse through to the final.With a hearty bistecca." Vinum

"Lustrous ruby. Concentrated cherry nose with an earthy, minerally note and a hint of gingerbread. With aeration more and more minerally. Tangy gentle fruit with the merest suggestion of oak. Gorgeous chewy tannins. Very suave, supple and elegant." Jancis Robinson

"Altesino has been producing a separate bottling from the cru of Montosoli since 1975, though the vines were partially replanted in 2005 and 2016. If Altesino's estate Brunello is almost accessible already, the polished yet intense Montosoli needs time in the cellar to demonstrate its potential. The nose is discreet with violet, bramble and bay leaf taking on earthy, savoury tones as it sits in the glass. Tight and firmly fastened, the palate fuses stony notes of granite with dark cherry. Ageing is in 30hL casks of Slavonian oak." Decanter

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Montosoli pulls you close to the glass with a captivating display of candied citrus rinds, incense and dried roses giving way to rich cherry sauce and a hint of brown spice. It's deeply textural yet youthfully dense, as it first cools the palate with lavender and ripe dark red fruits; yet beneath is a layer of grippy tannins that close the wine down. Notes of licorice, black tea and purple florals linger on the youthfully chewy finale. The 2016 is just a baby today, and it will need a number of years to come fully into focus - but it will be worth the wait." Vinous

"The Altesino 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Montosoli is a true beauty. The wine reveals dark fruit intensity that comes forth as blackberry, plum and summer cherry. In no time, those aromas shift to the savory side of the spectrum with smoke, tar and tobacco. The results are generous and layered, offering the best of what the celebrated Montosoli cru can offer, especially in an ironic vintage such as this." Wine Advocate

"Lovely sweet cherries and heather with some leather and balsamic undertones. It's full-bodied with a velvety and lightly dusty palate. Juicy fruit and pretty orange peel to the berry character. Hints of cedar and meat at the end. Subtle and complex." James Suckling

"Rose, forest berry, underbrush and new leather are some of the aromas you'll find on this full-bodied red. From one of Montalcino's greatest vineyard sites, the firmly structured, elegant palate is also delicious, boasting ripe black cherry, raspberry compote, tobacco and licorice set against taut, fine-grained tannins. It's well balanced, with bright acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"Packed with sweet, ripe cherry, plum and raspberry fruit and framed by loamy earth and woodsy notes, this red is intense, lively and light on its feet. Balanced, with firm tannins and a salty, minerally impression on the lingering aftertaste." Wine Spectator