Jancis Robinson

Brilliant ruby red colour. Lively nose of small, primary fruity red berries, subtle use of wood and impressive race and complexity for the price. Precise and taut on the palate, showing its origins boldly and decisively. Then a harmoniously balanced mix of tobacco, leather, cedar and, of course, cherry and plum. The finely balanced tannins carry this powerful and impressive Riserva into a long final. Impressive! SUPERIORE.DE

"This wine is absolutely delicious. An arpeggio of sweet, unashamedly ripe, red berry and violet-coloured fruit that floats through the glass. Unbridled freshness. The fruit is the flutist of the vineyard. Unabashed in terms of fruit, but at the same time not obtrusively "fruity". It is complex. The tannins are silky, but have a finely powdered chalky grip. There's spice, a little liquorice bark and a hint of foliage - that kind of green-purple, velvety bloom of wild violets. And the purity of the fruit fills every molecule of the long finish. Bravo!" Jancis Robinson

"This is bright and focused, with aromas of cherries, dried oranges and hints of hibiscus and mild spices. Medium-bodied, crunchy and fresh on the palate, with very fine tannins. Polished, with mineral notes of crushed stones and citrusy nuances at the end. Shows freshness and balance." James Suckling

"Offers cherry and plum fruit, framed by flavours of earth, minerals and wild herbs. This red wine oscillates between elegance and power and is wonderfully balanced. Dusty tannins support the fruit on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"The Chianti Classico Riserva Il Grigio da San Felice 2021 is a dark, dense and rather sombre wine. Black cherry, leather, tobacco, incense and dried herbs reinforce this first impression. The 2021 is a Riserva with substance and power and has a lot to offer. It is a particularly beautiful edition of Il Grigio." Vinous

Historically, the vineyards of Castello di Fonterutoli are located in the areas of three neighbouring municipalities of Chianti Classico: Castellina in Chianti, Castelnuovo Berardenga and Radda in Chianti. With the 2017 vintage, the Mazzei family has for the first time vinified all three large vineyards separately as Chianti Classico Gran Selezione to reflect the diversity of the terroir: Castello di Fonterutoli, Vicoregio 36 and Badiòla.

Vicoregio 36 is the successor to the ambitious Mix 36 and, since 2017, a true Chianti Classico Gran Selezione. As a result of 50 years of research, 36 biotypes of the Sangiovese grape were planted on a sunny plateau near Castelnuova Berardenga, from which this extremely interesting and independent wine was created a few years ago. The overall impression is very balanced and straightforward with hints of red cherries, spices, dried blueberries and tobacco. It is the warmest and most balanced of the three Gran Selezione wines. Its intensity, richness of colour and precise fruit instantly captivate the Sangiovese lover. SUPERIORE.DE

"Raspberry-scented seducer with floral and herbal notes; flattering on the palate, silky tannin, embedded in fine acidity, ends long and fresh. Pleases with its elegance and no-frills style. Among the best cuts of Viennese beef cuisine." Vinum

"Bright ruby red. In the nose initially marked by rich noble wood, then after blood orange and fresh raspberries, pink roses in the finish. Compact and with clear fruit on the palate, shows itself polished and radiant, pithy, minimal afterdrying in the final." Falstaff

"Deep ruby red with orange reflections. Brooding and with the faintest suggestion of gingerbread and sweet oak. In this youthful state, the palate is similar to that of the Castello di Fonterutoli Gran Selezione of the same vintage, but this is slightly richer and with firmer, if polished, tannins. Enormous length. Monumental and far from finished." Jancis Robinson

"Mazzei's expression of the Vagliagli commune comes from a vineyard planted with 36 different Sangiovese biotypes, the result of 50 years of research. At an altitude of 350 metres, it is the lowest of the winery's three Gran Selezione sites and also the most expansive and supple. It leads with mocha, dried cherry and balsam wood and wears its oak well. The purity of the red berries shows on the palate with toasty flavours. This wine is full yet gracefully structured, with appetisingly integrated acidity." Decanter

"This classy red boasts a core of ripe, juicy plum, cherry and blackberry fruit framed by a subtle touch of new oak and a mineral underpinning. Reveals refined tannins, which should come into the fold over the next five to seven years as this integrates fully. Shows terrific balance and length, with finesse and complexity." Wine Spectator

"This is the third vintage in which this wine has the Gran Selezione designation. The fruit comes from an experimental vineyard at an altitude of 350 metres with compact clay soils (with some stones for loosening), good aeration and a dominant southern exposure. The property is 12.5 hectares and was acquired in 1997. Following the graceful 2018 vintage, the Mazzei 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Fonterutoli Vicoregio 36 shows medium-bodied concentration and sweet tannins with plenty of dark fruit, spice, scrub and wild mint." Wine Advocate

"A very straightforward and fine Chianti Classico with crisp cherry fruit and a hint of minerals. Medium body. Crisp and lively finish. Closed and dense on the mid palate." James Suckling

The annual production of this boutique winery on Etna is just 9,000 bottles. At an altitude of 950 metres above sea level, the one and a half hectares of vines are divided into eight tiny plots and have been gradually bought up by the well-known Oenologist. The area is planted with Nerello Mascalese bush vines, which have been spared the phylloxera phylloxera and make their way through the lava-covered terraces.

The single vines, which are on average 80 to 100 years old, are cultivated in the traditional, low-bush Alberello style, to which the wine owes its name. Alberelli di Giodo is extremely elegant and flavoursome and represents the minerality and finesse typical of its volcanic growing region to a remarkable degree. SUPERIORE.DE

"From ancient bush trees in high vineyards: finely chiselled aromas of raspberries and blossoms, also balsamic facets; noble texture, the acidity and tannins wonderfully modelled, long, fresh and fruity and yet extremely elegant. Very successful." Vinum

"Bright, light ruby red colour. Intriguing nose, delicate fruity notes, reminiscent of raspberries and cherries, followed by dried herbs and a hint of black truffle. Lively and precise on the palate, starts with a lot of juice, firm tannin structure and dancing acidity, spicy final, good length." Falstaff

"Transparent ruby red colour. Rich and yet with plenty of pace. And some light animal notes." Jancis Robinson

"Cola, tobacco, cinnamon and baked cherries. Freshness and lift from the start, super fresh with a juicy succulence that is so inviting. A clean palate with a gentle flavour drive. Feels well crafted with finesse. Balanced with so much juicy goodness, lovely velvety tannins and sweet strawberry, raspberry and pomegranate fruit on the palate. It will also develop superbly with time in the glass. This wine certainly has power, depth and vigour. A wine to age." Decanter

"A medium-bodied, very dense and precise red wine with focused, firm tannins framing smooth layers of cranberry, blackberry, stone, slate and tobacco. Also a hint of dried fruit. Mineral and stony. The wine has the character of old vines, with plenty of bark and spice on the finish. Try it from 2024 onwards." James Suckling

"The 2020 Sicilia Nerello Mascalese from Carlo Ferrini opens with a beautiful ruby red colour and an elegant, slender appearance. The wine offers tart cherry fruit, cassis, blue flowers, iron ore and orange peel. These different layers come together with balanced intensity. This vintage shows tremendous elegance and tannins that melt slowly and persistently on the palate. This bottle offers a very authentic and classic expression of the Sicilian volcano." Wine Advocate

"It is a pure Nerello Mascalese, preceded by a measured maceration on the skins and then refined in tonneaux. It has notes of black cherry, a hint of rhubarb, a touch of marjoram and black peppercorns. Spicy on the palate, with a fruity, spicy finish and hints of undergrowth." Luca Gardini

Passopisciaro's Contrada C is an exquisite red with a dark sensual fruit bouquet. Stylistically like a great Pinot Noir or Nebbiolo, of remarkable intensity on the palate until the lingering final. A muscular and weightless wine at the same time. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright shining cherry red with ruby. Small strawberries, redcurrants, juniper berries, slightly loamy, leather spice and black tea on the nose. Builds up lively, with nice pressure, finely woven tannin, very finesse, nevertheless gripping in the back, tactile mineral notes, finishes on a fine salty character." Falstaff

"Scarce medium ruby red. Peppery nose of red fruits, cherry, rhubarb and raspberry with a spicy undertone and hints of oak and tobacco leaf. Wonderful depth and concentration on the palate, with a layer of fine-grained tannins. Real intensity on the finish. A cool climate spirit, despite its 15% alcohol." Jancis Robinson

"The 2019 Contrada Chiappemacine (C) exudes a dark blend of black cherry and shaved cedar in a hint of ashy smoke. It is round and soothingly textured, with cooling acidity enlivening the mineral red berries and a hint of brown spice. The finish has a mentholated freshness, while the silty tannins linger, leaving the mouth wanting more. It will need minimal ageing to be at its best. The Chiappemacine site is at an altitude of 550 metres and consists of a thin layer of volcanic soils over a limestone bed." Vinous

"Fragrant spice and cedar notes waft from the glass of this graceful red wine, accentuating the finely knit flavours of pureed raspberry, rose and liquorice, matched by slightly chalky tannins that firm up the mineral finish." Wine Spectator

"The Vini Franchetti 2019 Contrada C shows a sweet side with wild cherry and raspberry. Those primary notes are framed by ashy volcanic notes, crushed stone and wildflower. You also get hints of grilled rosemary and dried lavender. Compared to the other single-vineyard wines in this series, Contrada C has a sweeter, slightly more accessible personality. But the tight tannins and streamlined fruit weight promise good aging potential." Wine Advocate

"Weightless, concentrated and delicious, with aromas of camphor, wild berries, rose and wet stone. The full-bodied palate offers crushed raspberries, wild strawberries, cinnamon and star anise before an almost salty finish. Supple tannins provide finesse and polished grip." Wine Enthusiast

Etna is one of Italy's most fascinating wine regions and Andrea Franchetti is probably the most fanatical producer in this area. Added to this are eighty-year-old indigenous Nerello Mascalese vines. The single vineyard Contrada Porcaria has a thoroughly masculine personality. Darkly scented with ripe fruit and menthol, the palate is predominantly spice and mineral with many other facets. The course and the final are rich, dense and very convincing. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant, medium ruby red. Deeper nose than the Contrada C with fragrant, concentrated raspberries and hints of crushed black pepper and stones. A racy acidity permeates the spicy-sweet raspberry fruit. Very firm but polished tannic framework that finishes in a chewy raspberry finish. Firm structure." Jancis Robinson

"A dusty and inviting blend of dried roses and cherries is contrasted by hints of ash and smoke as the 2019 Contrada Porcaria (P) blossoms in the glass. It is undeniably elegant, with a velvety texture that lays over the medium-bodied wine, delivering mineral red berry and sweet herbal tones that arch across the palate. It is lightly textured with grippy tannins that tug at the cheeks, but the mouthfeel leaves you wanting more as the pomegranate and plum notes slowly fade away. The Porcaria vineyard sits at 650 metres above sea level, with soils that Passopisciaro describes as "a fragile layer of lava that shatters underfoot". Give this beauty another year to come into its own." Vinous

"Aromas of Mediterranean scrub, eucalyptus, smoky flint and wild berries mingle with dark spice. On the full-bodied palate, bright acidity lifts raspberry compote, liquorice, slate and blood orange. Taut, polished tannins give grip while the warmth of the alcohol lingers on the finish." Wine Enthusiast

"A tight-knit red wine that, despite its dense tannic framework, has a lush texture thanks to aromas and flavours of steeped black raspberries and cherries, wild sage, singed orange peel and red liquorice. The wine has good tension, focus and freshness, but the fruit and spice palette and smoky minerality will only fully develop with more time in bottle." Wine Spectator

"The Vini Franchetti 2019 Contrada P shows more concentration and fruit weight compared to some of the other wines in this series of single-vineyard wines. Blackcurrant and dried cherry segue to cola, spice and some lingering balsam herb. The tannins are also tighter here, and this wine has more power and extract all around." Wine Advocate

Dense with complex fruit flavours, lots of extract, soft, mouth-filling, unusually velvety and enveloped in gentle tannins. Matured in small barriques of old and new oak and in traditional Tuscan wooden barrels. Riecine has been producing one of the most subtle Chianti Classico wines for years - a marvellous wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium carmine red colour. Lively, fresh cherry and raspberry fruit with savoury, spicy notes in the background. Cool raspberry fruit on the palate with plenty of fresh acidity and fine tannins that linger on the palate. Very long and precise." Jancis Robinson

"Shows its harmonious side again, on the one hand charming, with juicy fruit and creamy, then also with fine acidity and depth." Weinwisser

"The Chianti Classico 2021 is a very beautiful, elegant wine. Sweet floral notes open the wine, followed by ripe red cherries, blood oranges, mint and rose petals. This medium-bodied, noble Chianti Classico is a winner." Vinous

"It smells of raspberries, potting soil, roses and cherry blossom. On the palate, it is medium-bodied and transparent, with flavours of redcurrant and orange peel. The light tannins are powdery in texture and the racy acidity electrifies with nervous energy." Decanter

"Intense aromas and flavors of cherry, raspberry and spices mark this succulent, harmonious red, which firms up nicely on the finish, where iron and tobacco accents emerge." Wine Spectator

"Dark ruby red with brightening edges. Medium intensity nose of juniper, sweet cherry and a hint of pomegranate. Very fresh on the palate, with a fine fruit flavour and grippy tannins, carries well through to the juicy finish." Falstaff

"Aromas of black cherries and violets with a hint of lemon peel. Also gravel. Medium body, well-integrated tannins and a creamy texture with beautiful tannins and fruit." James Suckling

"A Sangiovese, lively, intense and spicy. Liquorice on the nose, then undergrowth and red raspberry. Iodised on the palate, surprisingly persistent, with an aftertaste of red mulberry." Luca Gardini

Montefili's Chianti Classico is refined and captivating. Black and sour cherries, tobacco, smoked meat and dried tomatoes play around the nose. On the palate, it is firm, deep and marches purposefully into an intense and rich final with its blue-black fruits, spices, new leather, liquorice and dark spices. The ultra-fine tannins round off the overall picture of a highly remarkable Chianti Classico. SUPERIORE.DE

"Impenetrable purple colour - seems to herald lots of new oak. Deep, rich cherry fruit with a hint of apple skin and notes of new oak. Lots of tangy cherry fruit that is a little mouth-watering and a rich layer of sandy tannins. Full-bodied but compelling, though the new oak seems to accelerate its development." Jancis Robinson

"A spicy nose, characterised by roasted herbs, but also red and black cherries. Salty and mineral on the palate with fine, firm tannins. Dried flowers come through." James Suckling

"A rich, fleshy red, with rusty, iron aromas complementing black cherry and blackberry flavors backed by substantial tannins. While this tightens up on the lingering finish, there is nevertheless a beam of concentrated fruit." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Chianti Classico is fabulous. Rich, profound and wonderfully expansive, the 2018 captivates from the first sip. An onslaught of blue/black fruits, spices, new leather, liquorice and dark spices saturate the palate. The 2018 Chianti Classico is profound and particularly concentrated, but it all works so well. harvestwill find a wine of unusual power, intensity and richness. The 2018 is a great wine, no question, and yet the 15% alcohol is not particularly noticeable." Vinous

Barolo Le Coste di Monforte from the top 2019 vintage is extremely beguiling in the glass. Rose petals, cedar wood, mint, sweet pipe tobacco and blood orange are the first flavours to open up. It is deep and complex on the palate and exceptionally beautiful and harmonious for a young Barolo. Time in the glass brings out its countless nuances. SUPERIORE.DE

"Monforte d'Alba. Brilliant medium ruby red colour with orange reflections. Concentrated, perfumed nose of red fruits, sweet cherry fruit on the palate, with a layer of sandy tannins. A beautiful wine that needs more time. It certainly has what it takes to age further." Jancis Robinson

"The 2019 Pecchenino Barolo Le Coste di Monforte displays a smoky character with campfire ash and roasted spices. At its core, the wine shows dark fruits and plums that come together to form a medium-thick texture. It has the structural dynamism of the vintage with a more open and approachable side that can be drunk over the medium term." Wine Advocate

"Tar and roses with freshly cut plums and some cherries. Medium body with racy tannins that are chewy. Juicy underneath." James Suckling

"A beam of pure cherry anchors this rich, fleshy red. Strawberry, iron, tobacco, wild thyme and rosemary flavors chime in, all supported by a line of dusty tannins." Wine Spectator

Rio Sordo Riserva is particularly dense, rich and balanced. On the nose we find roses, spices and raspberries. Very complex on the palate, with marvellous depth and juiciness. Rio Sordo offers a taut and sharp fruit on the nose, which is rounded off with some tannin and crispness on the finish. The floral notes that develop with good aeration or further ageing in the bottle through to the final make this Barbaresco Riserva irresistible even at a young age. SUPERIORE.DE

"Blackish ruby red colour. Sweet, albeit somewhat restrained nose. Powerful on the palate with plenty of tannin and liquorice. Dry finish. Very promising!" Jancis Robinson

"The 2019 Barbaresco Riserva Rio Sordo is quite profound in this vintage, with remarkable depth in its dark-toned fruit. This is a particularly powerful Rio Sordo that is still emerging. Its intensity is palpable, even if I see less of the finesse that I associate with wines from this site. Today, all the energy of the wine is directed inwards." Vinous

"This red starts out on the opulent side, featuring cherry, raspberry, mint and iron flavors, before the beefy tannins take over midpalate, informing the long, gripping finish. Yet this remains vibrant and long, just needs time to shed its tannins." Wine Spectator

"Bright ruby red colour with a surprisingly restrained character and floral lightness. Very elegant, with flavours of liquorice, sweet violet, minerals, cherry stones and peach skin. Over this layered complexity, the wine is firm, with still dusty tannins, but velvety and ripe. A viscous finish is balanced by a full body and crisp acidity. Delicious." James Suckling

Katia and Luigi's Brunello di Montalcino opens with dark fruits, cherries, forest herbs and dried plums. This is accompanied by a fine fruity sweetness, framed by notes of tar, smoke and exotic spices. The dark and ripe intensity of the fruit is closely interwoven with the flavours of oak and the stately proportions of the wine. The long and well-structured finish is characterised by liquorice and mint, flanked by a layer of fine tannins. What we particularly like about this Brunello is that it is already full of finesse and class and is already showing its beauty at a young age. SUPERIORE.DE

"Concentrated, wide-ranging ripe bouquet, delicately liqueur-like top note, but less invasive than usual, ripe cherries, blueberries, tobacco, chocolate, very complex and engaging. Juicy, concentrated and at the same time polished palate, powerful, polished fullness, concentrated final." Weinwisser

"Dark ruby red with a brick-coloured rim. Deep, seductive cherry nose with exotic spice notes. Powerful and long with juicy cherry fruit that is just beginning to unfold and fine-grained, enveloping tannins. Very balanced, but still needs to settle, so wait and see." Jancis Robinson

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino smells of a dusty mix of dried flowers and strawberries underscored by lemon oil. It is racy and supple with cooling acidity and vibrant ripe wild berries lifted by orange and cedar spice. The acidity asserts itself and maintains an amazing freshness despite the grippy tannins that resonate throughout. The 2019 finishes long and colourful with a pretty hint of violet blossom that lingers for a long time. San Polino continues to raise the bar; this wine is wonderful." Vinous

"From the San Polino vineyards in the north-east on loamy clay soils. This exuberantly youthful and nascent 2019 is redolent of violets and oily balsamic herbs. It makes a medium-bodied impression - yet is packed with blackberry fruit. A hint of orange peel is emphasised by a zesty acidity. And when the wine opens up, spicy, steely depths emerge. Promising, but still needs to come together. Firm, loamy tannins weigh down the flavour on the finish." Decanter

"Intense aromas of black cherries, black truffle, orange peel and Indian spices. The palate is full yet restrained, with very fine tannins that penetrate the wine linearly and deeply. Lovely texture. Restrained on the finish. A true beauty." James Suckling

Ruby garnet colour, fine violet note and many spices in the bouquet. Dense and compact with taut tannin and sweet fruit melt. Given time, this already very elegant red (age of the vines: 100 years, production: 4,000 bottles) is at the beginning of a long, promising development. SUPERIORE.DE

"Just under medium ruby. A nose full of spices over a layer of cool red fruits with stony hints. Open and completely ready and accessible. Fresh, supple red fruits. More elegant than concentrated with soft, polished tannins." Jancis Robinson

"Juniper and sour cherry, earth and salt on the nose. Hearty on the palate with hints of venison, black cherry, chocolate and nutmeg. Very concentrated, broad-shouldered and at the same time punchy due to a present acidity. The fruit seems very ripe. A wine with high demands, but also a pleasure to drink." Vinum

"The Vini Franchetti 2020 Contrada G, with fruit from the historic Guardiola vineyard where some of the vines are 120 years old, has notes of white pepper and Indian spices framing red currants, balsamic herbs, pencil shavings and embers. The wine is tangy and full-bodied, with medium texture and long tannins." Wine Advocate

"Elegant ruby red with a sparkling core and brightening rim. Elegant and inviting nose of ripe cherries, mint, cold smoke, then again ripe raspberries, pomegranate and blood orange, seductive. Polished and compact on the palate, opening slowly and in many layers, extremely finessed and with a salty, long finish." Falstaff

"The 2020 Contrada Guardiola (G) is a real eye-catcher. It is surprisingly floral, with an abundance of rose and violet tones mingling with blackberries and a pinch of spice. It flows across the palate with ease, silky at first, with a saline core and tart red berries drenching the senses; yet it remains perfumed and refined throughout. Spicy citrus and herbal notes run through the long final, along with a layer of fine tannins that promise a long and steady evolution. Franky said, "This is one of the finest performances of Guardiola fruit I have ever experienced." Vinous

Here comes the second vintage of Zerbina's single-vineyard Sangiovese, with which the winery once again proves in a very small edition (< 1,000 bottles) once again proves what great Sangiovese Romagna can produce. Dark-fruited, full nose with a cornucopia of dark berry fruits and hints of forest floor, tar and white ash. Firm on the palate, enormously complex, the concentrated fruit gradually opens up with further airing and a Sangiovese work of art is revealed that could not be more typical, pure and at the same time more complex. Great compliment! SUPERIORE.DE

"Hedonist factor max. Mid to deep ruby. A super-enticing nose of chalky, concentrated cherry and damson fruit dabbed with sweet oak notes and with the merest suggestion of rosemary and cinnamon. The tannins add the fireworks. They are simply perfect, gravelly and ripe. Long, lush and finely balanced, this will age gracefully but I caught it at just this irresistible stage. A wine that makes you happy. The generous character of this vintage shines through in the ripe fruit, but it will be rewarding to see this age." Jancis Robinson

"Dark, elegant ruby red, brightening rim. Complex, inviting nose of fine noble wood, then ripe cherries, wild strawberries, also a hint of dried red petals, light leather and cedar in the finish. Tightly meshed and compact on the palate, opens with a juicy undertone, lovely elegant red fruit, currently still a little marked by the wood, will come together magnificently, long." Falstaff

Pisapola from the vineyard of the same name in the municipality of Verduno offers a beautiful richness of texture and an impressive softness. This wine is open and honest, with an approachable style that highlights red cherries, undergrowth, wild berries and roses in a very harmonious way. The tannin is precisely measured, and on the finish, its harmony and balance are again inspiring. Not a powerhouse, it brings out the character and elegance of this great Nebbiolo site all the more amiably and authentically. SUPERIORE.DE

"Tasted blind. Medium ruby red with orange reflections. Compact and still reserved nose with a hint of Moroccan leather. Supple and generous palate that doesn't quite open up yet. Polished, chewy tannins that taste of liquorice. Long, but needs more time in the bottle to reveal its hidden depths." Jancis Robinson

"The 2016 Barolo Pisapola is the most airy and perfumed wine in this range. Crushed flowers, mint, cedar, sweet pipe tobacco and red berry fruit grace this finely meshed, medium-bodied Barolo. The 2016 is understated, stylish and very pretty." Vinous

"Enticing aromas of macerated cherry, licorice, leather and spice greet the senses, with sweet fruit, licorice, tobacco and spice flavors. Balanced and open, this is will be approachable soon, yet also has the structure to age." Wine Spectator

"The Ascheri 2016 Barolo Pisapola is the most immediate and approachable wine from Matteo Ascheri's series of single-vineyard wines, which makes perfect sense given the geologically younger Tortonian marl and Messinian limestone of the site. The Pisapola site is in Verduno and the wine shows a loose, thin texture characteristic of this subzone. The bouquet is subtle and elegant, although the overall intensity of the wine is lower compared to some of the better-known comuni or villages in the Barolo appellation. It offers a mild structure and a silky finish." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of roses, wild berries, scrub and new leather characterise the elegant nose. The savoury palate mirrors the nose, with ripe Marasca cherry, liquorice, menthol and a mineral note reminiscent of rusty nails. Taut, fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity give support, while a hint of game signals the finish." Wine Enthusiast

The Carnasciale Rosso also impressively reflects the lineage of this small winery. Elegance and minerality take centre stage, with aromas reminiscent of black cherries, plums, juniper berries and menthol. Fresh, lively and beautifully structured with impressively diverse nuances on the palate. SUPERIORE.DE,

"Cosy aromas of blueberries and herbs; has fullness and polish on the palate, finishes long and very harmonious. Convinces with its polish." Vinum

"Bright ruby red colour. Elegant spice on the nose, redcurrants, red peppers, some graphite and blood, precious wood, cold smoke, elderberries. Juicy, clear on the palate, with an exciting entry and progression, savoury, young tannins, repeatedly juicy on the finish, good foresight." Falstaff

"Impenetrable, deep ruby red colour. Deep and gentle red fruit flavours with a hint of oak on the nose. Elegant and a little lively on the palate. Light yet concentrated, cool red fruit with polished, fine, long tannins." Jancis Robinson

"The wine has dark underlying tones of blackberries and plums and shows good support and structure on the back end. With time, you get pronounced herbal or green notes, and the medium-bodied mouthfeel is infused with powdery tannins." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 Carnasciale is infused with dark berries, mocha, new leather, liquorice and rose petals. This is a particularly aromatic, restrained vintage for the Carnasciale, where the flavours are quite prominent, while the fruit is more in the background and hidden by the structure of the wine. This wine really demands aeration or, even better, a few years in the bottle. It is a very serious, deep second wine from the estate." Vinous

"Dried herbs and peppercorns reminiscent of Chinese herbs and black beans. Also dark cherries and mushrooms. I love the freshness of this wine with a steady, crisp palate of medium weight releasing fresh acidity and very refined tannins. Fresh and savoury finish at the end. Excellent length." James Suckling

"With aromas of blackcurrants, blackberries, violets, liquorice and iron, this pure red wine is racy and well-structured. Harmonious and persistent, with a long aftertaste that has a salty flavour alongside the fruit, it is simply radiant." Wine Spectator

Beautifully balanced on the nose with dried roses, blackcurrants, earth and balsamic herbs. The Brunello di Montalcino La Pieve, with its tannins and strong, primary fruity core on the palate, shows a somewhat greater firmness and power than the Annata. This wine is so youthful yet full of balanced components; salty minerals, liquorice and tart blackberries linger incredibly long under a hint of purple flowers. It needs a little more bottle ageing before it begins to shine. With this single-vineyard Brunello from Castelnuovo dell'Abate, La Gerla succeeds in bringing out the purity of Sangiovese in a remarkable way. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dense, red berry, super floral bouquet, tobacco, leather. Juicy palate, supple, sweet berries, nice ripeness, super juicy style, grippy but sweet ripe tannin, a typical 2019. " Weinwisser

"Bright, shiny ruby red colour. Fragrant nose of wax, stone pine, cane sugar, then rich dark berry fruit and undergrowth, with a delicate balsamic note, complex and inviting. Harmonious entry and progression on the palate, balanced, with well-integrated tannins and great juiciness, shows beautiful Sangiovese character, good length, with a finish of citrus fruit." Falstaff

"Medium to deep ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Sublime, concentrated cherry nose with a hint of spicy, complex oak, but in a very subtle way. Lush, tangy cherry fruit with finely milled, firm tannins that support the fruit without ever becoming dominant. Great balance." Jancis Robinson

"With intensity to the cherry, strawberry and raspberry fruit, this red is shaded with elements of tobacco, earth and wild herbs. Dusty tannins and lively acidity provide support, while a mineral component gathers steam on the salty, lingering finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino La Pieve opens with a mentholated freshness that mingles with dusty roses, crushed stones and dried cherries. It shows a silky texture contrasted by cool acidity and minerals, while the tart red fruits slowly saturate. The 2019 leaves edgy tannins on the palate as it takes on a balsamic note and traces of cloves slowly fade. La Pieve is a classic wine, but it also has a powerful structure. Bury your bottles deep." Vinous

"In the black label bottle, the La Gerla 2019 Brunello di Montalcino La Pieve reveals a 360-degree bouquet of generous fruit, dark currant, petrichor, wet slate and a mix of rosemary and grilled herb. This wine presents a classic Brunello bouquet combined with medium fruit weight and very fine, grippy tannins. Production is limited to 6,320 bottles this year." Wine Advocate

"Once again the raw material on the shields for a compact and intense Brunello. On the nose, notes of red blackberries, a hint of cinnamon and Valdostan mint, finishing on notes of wild iris. Juicy and taut sip, salty tannins, closes with a return of menthol notes." Luca Gardini

Elegant Pinot Nero with a complex bouquet of blackberry and raspberry, candied orange peel in the background. Clear and straightforward on the palate; polished, fine tannins and a beautiful melt in the very long final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Healthy, youthful ruby. An enticing, complex, sweet oak and balsamic red-fruit nose. Juicy cherry and raspberry palate. Elegant and long with super-fine tannins and plenty of freshness." Jancis Robinson

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What begins with a seductive bouquet of delicate plums and a hint of mint gains volume and depth as grilled sage and rum-soaked blackcurrants mingle with sweet tobacco and allspice. Its texture is silky and fleshy, accompanied by a nervous acidity, while ripe black cherries and a hint of cranberry sauce create a sweet and sour tension on the palate. The concentration is astonishing, yet the energy remains incredibly high, even if the grippy tannins increase towards the end. Notes of sour citrus fruits, savoury herbs and tart wild berries linger incredibly long in the structured yet remarkably fresh final. Only around 3,000 bottles of this cru are produced and it is a real must-have for all Aglianico lovers! SUPERIORE.DE

"Very dark carmine red colour. The first impression is oak spice, but no sweetness. Spicy black fruits with a hint of smoke. Powerful yet very elegant, fine tannin structure, with the tannins increasing on the finish. Refined and long and yet so youthful." Jancis Robinson

"You certainly won't regret it if you give the Aglianico Siope 2016 some time to open up in the glass. What starts as delicate plums with a hint of mint gains volume and depth as grilled sage and rum-soaked blackcurrants mingle with sweet tobacco and allspice. To be honest, you could get lost in this bouquet. Its texture is silky and fleshy, accompanied by a nervous acidity, while ripe black cherries and a hint of cranberry sauce create a sweet and sour tug-of-war on the palate. The concentration is amazing, yet the energy remains incredibly high, even as the grippy tannins pick up towards the finish. Notes of sour citrus, savoury herbs and tart wild berries linger incredibly long on the structured yet remarkably fresh final. Only 3080 bottles of this cru bottling were produced, and lovers of Aglianico owe it to themselves to discover this wine." Vinous