Luca Maroni

Negroamaro "F" stands for Falò (bonfire). And that's what it is! Black-red hue, surprising intensity of aromatic richness, ripe black berries, cherry jam, thyme, dark chocolate and cocoa. Also very dense and full-bodied on the palate with silky tannin and a very long, aromatic finish. SUPERIORE.DE

Medium, bright ruby red colour. The bouquet and flavour are dominated by interesting notes of fresh cut flowers, sweet red berries, liquorice, mint, pine and cedar wood. As the wine progresses, the Chianti Classico reveals a marvellous precision and spiciness, which is enveloped by a well-measured extract sweetness. The overall impression is one of grace and an open-hearted style, which impresses with all its components and not least with its typical Radda Sangiovese freshness from the high altitudes of the Chianti Classico. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red colour. Multi-faceted nose, pleasant cherry and blueberry fruit, followed by pepper and tobacco. The fruit also predominates on the palate, paired with stimulating acidity and a mineral finish." Falstaff

"The 2022 Chianti Classico is a lovely wine from Volpaia. Aromatic, light on its feet and gracious, the Chianti Classico here is a consistently fine example of Radda. Clean mineral notes shape this bright, taut offering. A burst of red fruit, chalk, white pepper and mint lingers on the finish." Vinous

"A delicious, well-rounded and velvety Chianti Classico with aromas of strawberries, raspberries and mild spices. Medium-bodied with finely grained tannins and texture. Juicy and velvety with elegance and a pure character. Fresh and delicious finish." James Suckling

Salcheto's garnet-red sparkling Vino Nobile delights us with a classic blend of dusty black cherries, cedar shavings, worn leather and sour citrus notes. On the palate, there is plenty of present fruit, a soft texture and a cool note, with savoury red fruits and cedar spice accompanied by lively acidity. Fine, sweet mellowness on the long finish. An authentic and pleasantly elegant organic wine from the heart of the Montepulciano region that is ready to drink when young. SUPERIORE.DE

"A fresh and structured red with black cherries, tea leaves and raw cocoa beans on the nose. Medium-bodied and chewy but approachable, with purity." James Suckling

"A lively, well-defined red, featuring cherry, raspberry, eucalyptus, iron and tobacco aromas and flavors. Linear and intense, this evolves to the long, savory finish." Wine Spectator

The pure Nero d'Avola is bursting with dark aromas of berries, black cherry, liquorice and tobacco. Lush and distinctive on the palate with wonderful spicy notes of mint, aniseed and espresso. Juicy tannins, good length, fine pressure. A really great wine of impressive intensity at a still very reasonable price, incidentally certified organic since the 2020 vintage! SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red with violet edges. Fine spicy notes on the nose, ripe plum and forest floor. Balanced on the palate with a fine tannin structure, fresh and fruity core, medium length." Falstaff

"The Saia 2021 exudes a captivating blend of crushed violets, lavender, blackberries and wet stones. A powerful core of ripe red and blue fruits forms the framework, while a juicy acidity provides freshness. A pleasantly bitter hint of tangerine develops towards the end. The 2021 is spotty and long, finishing with a layer of fine tannins and a saturation of primary concentration that creates a slight chewy sensation towards the end. This is a fantastic and energetic interpretation of Saia, a Nero d'Avola grape variety that I suspect will age very well." Vinous

"Lots of blackberries, mushrooms, bark and a hint of pumice. A hint of smoke. Mussel shells. Blue fruits. Medium-bodied with fine and silky tannins that add tension and focus. Black fruits on the finish with a hint of orange peel. Crisp and fruity with structure." James Suckling

Fresh rosato with a flavour of dark berries and a hint of lavender. Clear fruit on the palate, with elegant suppleness, a fine mineral note and, last but not least, an appealing palatability. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2023 Etna Rosato smells of wild strawberries, dusty rose and crushed stone. Round and juicy in character, it presents ripe stone fruit, green melon and a hint of candied citrus. The 2023 leaves a crisp and refreshed palate and finishes with medium length and a hint of minerality." Vinous

"Very perfumed with sliced apples, peaches and hints of citrus. Medium-bodied, this has bright acidity and a long, flavorful finish. Vibrant." James Suckling

The vines for Pinot Grigio Punggl thrive on soils with a high clay content south of Margreid. Bright straw yellow in colour with a brilliant core. Spicy, fruity aromas with notes of nuts, honey and fresh flowers lend it elegance and charm. Full-bodied and mineral flavour with a juicy structure and long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, intense golden yellow colour. Inviting bouquet of juicy Kaiser pear, forest honey and a hint of jasmine. Silky on the palate with a beautiful fruit melt, carried by animating acidity, very subtle phenolics, very harmonious." Falstaff

"The Pinot Grigio Punggl 2022 is savoury with a mineral bouquet of flint and citrus fruit. On the palate, the Pinot Grigio Punggl is exciting and savoury to the core. Crisp fruit trees complement the savoury character. The 2022 finishes with medium length and a salty sensation that keeps the taster coming back to the glass for more." Vinous

"A complex wine with apples, dried flowers, salty minerality and restrained cedar notes. It shows a tingling, medium-bodied palate with weight and savory, slightly toasted length, balance and concentration." James Suckling

Sangiovese in its purest form: bright ruby colour with a broad garnet rim. Rich in fruity and floral aromas, multi-layered, herbal, deep and well-polished with further development potential. A full-bodied and harmonious Chianti Classico with a highly authentic and very inviting style. SUPERIORE.DE

"Walking a fine line between cherry and berry flavours and notes of earth and iron, this red wine is bright and juicy in the middle of the palate and firms up on the long finish. Balanced overall, it needs a year to come together." Wine Spectator

"At the south-eastern end of the Chianti Classico, the Fèlsina vineyard extends into the Chianti Colli Senesi area, where on a clear day you can see as far as Siena, just 15 kilometres away. In its sun-drenched surroundings, the 2022 is immediate and exuberant in its charm. Reminiscent of maritime pine, Mediterranean scrub and wild yellow broom, it gains concentration as it glides smoothly across the palate, where stony minerals meet ripe strawberries. Lively, if a little lively on the finish." Decanter

"The Chianti Classico Berardenga 2022 is magnificent. Rich and deep, the 2022 is an archetype of Castelnuovo Berardenga. Black cherry, leather, spice, tobacco, menthol and dried herbs characterise this powerful, classic Chianti Classico. It is beautifully made, especially for this year." Vinous

"A balanced, seductive and lively red wine with flavours of wild berries, red currants, warm herbs and some crushed peppercorns. It is medium-bodied with fine tannins. A juicy berry character with a hint of spice brings energy and vitality to the palate and tactile finish." James Suckling

Fantastic Barbera from a world-famous vineyard, complex aromas of dark red, plump, juicy cherries, the finest spices and black forest berries on the nose. In the mouth, polished, dense, enormous amounts of glycerine and sweetish fruit, present but silky tannins, finely enveloped by the fruit, rich in finesse, persistent, first-class acidity. SUPERIORE.DE

"Shimmering ruby red with violet reflections. Plum, blackberry and liquorice on the nose, with a hint of sealing wax on the finish. Dancing acidity on the palate, paired with youthful tannins and rich plum fruit, warming alcohol." Falstaff

"Attractive, chocolaty character with ripe dark cherries, red plums and sweet spices. Medium to full-bodied, creamy and smooth, with a velvety texture. Long-lasting and beautifully fruity." James Suckling

"An ecstatic wine that leaps from the glass with the speed of an Olympic sprinter. Vibrant aromas of sliced Bing cherries, crushed raspberries, wild roses and a hint of bay leaf dominate the nose. A delicious freshness unfolds on the palate with a blend of red berries that shine as brightly as if they had just been picked. Subtle earthy notes balance the wine on the crisp and lively finish." Wine Enthusiast

Broad and rich, with aromas and flavours of plums, blackberries, clay and spices. La Braccescas Nobile di Montepulciano is a finely balanced, beautiful wine with all the elements in the right place. It is aromatically persistent, complex and nuanced in its balance. The winemaking team has done everything right here. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2020 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano opens with a mentholated freshness, blending cedar shavings with dried herbs and black cherries. This is elegant, nearly velvety in feel, with medium-bodied weight and polished red and black fruits. It tapers off with a pleasantly bitter tinge and is slightly chewy, leaving a coating of sweet tannins to frame the experience quite nicely." Vinous

"In the far east of the Vino Nobile zone, the La Braccesca vineyard borders Umbria. The vineyards extend over 340 hectares and reach as far as the neighbouring municipality of Cortona. Expressive aromas combine subtle oak spice with the scent of lavender and orange against a background of dark red cherry. On the palate, it is round, rich and velvety and is carried by a juicy acidity. The sandy tannins give the wine its shape and show a strong spiciness on the finish. Clean and well-defined." Decanter

"Aromas of ripe mulberries and blackberries with dark spices, burnt orange peel and earth. Full and structured with a deep core of ripe dark fruit and firm, chalky tannins. Long lasting finish." James Suckling

The deep garnet-red Recioto della Valpolicella releases a concentrated, sweet aroma of ripe fruit, caramel and chocolate. Its taste is dense, powerful and determined until the harmonious finish. SUPERIORE.DE

Sessantanni (60 years) comes from vines at least as old and impresses with a deep garnet red and visibly high concentration. The bouquet is reminiscent of a rum pot, beautiful with primary and secondary aromas of black fruits and woody spice. The palate is dense, smooth, jammy and with gentle tannins. Long and sweet on the finish. Unique in its opulence and density and undisputedly one of Puglia's most popular reds. SUPERIORE.DE

Rich Riserva made from Tintilia grapes, an ancient vine from Molise. Full, soft and velvety, the perfect harmony of bouquet and flavour is impressive. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, sparkling ruby with a brick-red hue. Impressive on the nose, sweet, black plum, juniper, cocoa bean, also some leather and iron. Precise fruit on the palate, fine-grained tannins, round and present, very harmonious and persistent on the finish." Falstaff

"Spicy and hot on the nose, with chilli pepper and cherry tomatoes before flavours of sour cherries and candied red apples emerge. More red apple and red pepper spiciness on the palate, with the sanguine flinty quality of dusty brick and ferrous soil emphasised by lively acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"Aromas of eucalyptus, figs and wild cherries. Medium-bodied with firm tannins. Interesting mineral character on the palate with walnut and blackberry flavours." James Suckling

"Autumnal spices, black liquorice and sage form an inviting bouquet when the Tintilia 2020 blossoms in the glass. Silky and enveloping, it impresses with cool mineral tones and juicy acidity. The tart fruits of the forest slowly saturate the palate. A layer of fine tannins gradually fades as the 2020 finishes energetically, leaving the mouth wanting another sip." Vinous

Palazzotto is the name of the two hectares of vineyard where only Cabernet Sauvignon is grown. Fausto Maculan vinifies a fine wine from these grapes. A pronounced, very multi-faceted bouquet of dark ripe fruit, cassis and nuances of fine spices and violets. The fruity flavour is full-bodied and soft, with a long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Maculan 2018 Breganze Cabernet Sauvignon Palazzotto makes a bold statement thanks to inky dark fruit, thick ripeness and dense extraction with black fruit flavors framed by lots of sweet oak. This full-framed red has an almost exotic quality with teriyaki or barbecue spice." Wine Advocate

"The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Palazzotto is spicy in the glass: cedar and ground ginger give way to dusty roses and redcurrants. It is elegant yet refined, with creamy textures lifted by vibrant acidity, while a wave of mineral-tinged wild berry flavours lightly wash over the palate. The 2018 leaves a tart note of citrus and raspberry and subtle, grippy tannins that frame the wine without slowing its momentum. Although it is already showing very well now, this wonderfully balanced version of Palazzotto should improve even more with medium-term cellaring." Vinous

"Ripe dark fruit with notes of walnuts, cedar wood and spices. Some leafy flavour. Medium to full-bodied with lots of firm, creamy tannins and a deep core of ripe and crunchy dark fruit. Velvety and long-lasting, with a firm, spicy finish." James Suckling

Dark ruby red with elegant shimmer. Intense and appealing nose with delicate spicy notes, opens up after some time and then dark notes of wild berries and some undergrowth predominate. Very dense, with continuation of the spicy notes already found in the nose, well integrated with lots of fruit, which lets the wine rest weightily with a long final on the palate. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling ruby. Opens on the nose with balsamic notes of eucalyptus, lots of blackberry, some clove. Full-bodied and soft on the nose, unfolds with lots of savoury tannin over the course." Falstaff

"The nose on this wine has the quiet elegance and confidence that usually takes more age to realize. It gives aromas of leather, graphite, sandalwood and pepper before nutmeg, dried currants and other spices and dried fruits come through. The palate is energized with an iron-rich current of raw meat and bricks, lifted by a sizzle of acid and heat." Wine Enthusiast

"Aromas of plums, black cherries, blackberries, tomato leaf, dried herb and spice box. Medium-to full-bodied with firm, polished tannins. Rich and fleshy on the palate with a lots of black fruit. Flavorful finish." James Suckling

Terre da Vino's intensely coloured Barbaresco La Casa in Collina has an interesting aroma of flowers, sour cherries, cedar wood and mint chocolate. The juicy flavour is extremely balanced with excellent persistence. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, shiny ruby red colour. Inviting and clear on the nose, of raspberries, precious wood and fine wild strawberries, fragrant. Tightly woven on the palate, juicy, slightly salty, with pleasant pressure, elegant." Falstaff

"A fresh, medium-bodied nebbiolo with a tight and focused red-berry nose and palate, lightly firm tannins and good drive at the end. I like the racy character with lots of fruit pushing through." James Suckling

"62 Anniversario" delights all the senses ... Deep dark colour, highly appetising bouquet with aromas of pomegranate, blackcurrant and a hint of cocoa butter. The palate is enveloped by expressive fruit in the purest harmony and fullness, fine tannins and a silky texture. The grapes from very old vines and the additional six months of ageing in barriques give the Primitivo Riserva incredible density, expressiveness and depth. A parade wine for all those who like it richer in extracts! SUPERIORE.DE

Enzo Barbi produces just 3,500 bottles of this flavoursome Sauvignon Bianco every year. It rises from the glass with a lovely freshness, while a delicate wave of lemongrass, chalk dust and sweet custard fills the senses. On the palate, it flows with silky texture and ripe, citrus-kissed orchard fruits accompanied by lively acidity. A hint of mint leaves and green peas lingers on the classically dry finish, while L'Inquisitore ends remarkably tangy and with a slight mineral bite. This extremely pretty Sauvignon Bianco from Umbria appears rather light-footed at first impression, but leaves a great impression. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright straw yellow with green reflections. Redcurrant, some kiwi and fresh herbs on the nose, reminiscent of basil and nettle. Stony on the palate, animating and mouthwatering, vibrant acidity, lots of herbal flavour on the final." Falstaff

"This is an aromatic white with herbal and earthy elements, exuding notes of pear skins, pomelos, guavas and chopped herbs. It’s full-bodied and fleshy with plenty of bite and fresh acidity to balance." James Suckling

La Bella Estate (The Beautiful Summer) is named after a work by Cesare Pavese. Deep golden yellow in colour with an opulent aroma of candied fruit, nutmeg and vanilla. Warm and full on the palate, always emphasising the floral sweetness of the Muscat grape with an optimally balanced acidity.

This Moscato Passito is the result of over 20 years of experience. "Over time," explains the president of the company, Piero Quadrumolo, "we have managed to find an optimal balance with the aim of obtaining an aromatic wine with the clear varietal character of a Moscato that is not too broad or boring and also has good acidity." Today, just 15,000 bottles are bottled per vintage, most of which are delivered directly to the haute cuisine of Piedmont. SUPERIORE.DE

A modern, single-varietal Chardonnay that does not deny its terroir with an almost Burgundian style. Elegant, complex and full of character, the aromatically fragrant Jalé has a balanced, long flavour. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, clear golden yellow colour. On the nose, clearly roasted hazelnuts, apricot jam, a little nut butter, followed by pineapple yoghurt and a little banana. The palate opens juicy with dancing acidity, some citrus. Salty, medium-long final. Good with grilled fish!" Falstaff

"The 2022 Jalè is a single varietal Chardonnay with a blend of vanilla custard, sweet spices and yellow apples. It feels silky, almost creamy, with a balance of mineral fruit and a hint of sour citrus. The 2022 is long and powerful, but also remarkably fresh. Lime zest and tart notes of green apples round off the finish." Vinous

A very well-balanced Chardonnay with a strong personality and the clarity and depth you expect from Maculan. A summery, warm fruit bouquet of apricot and peach, with an appetising hint of fresh bread and very delicate vanilla. Uninhibitedly juicy, yet fine, creamy and elegant in flavour with a pleasant finish. SUPERIORE.DE

Elegant, exotic-looking Etna Bianco with wonderfully broad flavours of tropical fruit, blossom and peach. Beautifully juicy, balanced and long in flavour. SUPERIORE.DE

"A blend from 5 contrade. Extremely aromatic, expansive, sexy bouquet with white peach and spices. This successful cuvée captivates with its multi-layered hints of mountain and flower meadows, paired with light exotic fruits. Melting on the palate with white fruits, mineral notes and a salty finish." Weinwisser

"The 2022 Etna Bianco rises from the glass with a savoury blend of dried flowers, stone dust and freshly cut nectarine. It shows ripe stone fruit and a feeling of liquid stone accompanied by fresh acidity. The 2022 finishes crisp and long, with a tart concentration of citrus that tickles the cheeks and keeps the taster reaching for the glass." Vinous

"It has notes of lemon, camomile and sweet basil. It is bright and fruity, with a medium body and a fresh, creamy finish." James Suckling

"A blend of Carricante from various Contradas in Castiglione di Sicilia on the north side of Mount Etna. This undried Bianco is bright and cheerful, full of white peach, white flowers, apricot skin, cream, pink grapefruit and hay. Its long, floral finish is delightful, juicy and stony." Decanter

Donnafugata's impressive declaration of love to Etna, currently the hottest wine hotspot, began with the Sul Vulcano line. Light ruby red in colour, with a bouquet of wild strawberry and delicate hints of black cherry, cinnamon and nutmeg. The corresponding, fresh flavour and subtle elegance lead to a harmonious and energetic finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Open-hearted bouquet with delicate oxidation, lilac, juniper and tobacco. Earthy and mineral on the palate with fine tannins and spicy notes." Weinwisser

"Medium, bright garnet red with a brightening rim. Fine aromas of strawberries and raspberries and a hint of cherry syrup on the nose. Crisp, fresh and juicy on the palate with a fruity finish and fine-grained tannins." Falstaff

"It impresses with its ripe core of black cherry and plum and offers pretty accents of violets, aniseed and dried herbs. This red wine is light-footed, with taut tannins that round off the mineral finish." Wine Spectator

"A soft and open red with plum and spice character as well as floral undertones. Some fresh herbs too. Medium body. Lightly chewy." James Suckling

"Hints of sweet spice and dusty rose give way to crushed cherries and cloves as the 2021 Etna Rosso Sul Vulcano blossoms in the glass. On the palate, it displays a texture of pure silk with ripe red fruits accompanied by lively acidity, while floral notes unfold on the inside. Fine tannins and a primary concentration saturate towards the end, while the 2021 finishes long. Traces of liquorice fade towards the end. This is a fantastic offering, especially at this price point." Vinous