Organic Red Wine

Dievole's new Chianti Classico Casanova, just released with the debut 2020 vintage, is the result of a quest to highlight the identity characteristics of particularly suitable vineyards, leading to ever more precise expressions of Sangiovese. The Casanova grapes come from a vineyard at an altitude of about 400 metres, with an ideal south-west to south-east exposure and composed mainly of sandstone rocks Macigno del Chianti. The result is a Chianti Classico that is very immediate and direct, with a beautiful acidity to boot. It has the elegance and freshness and the bright, radiant fruit of Chianti Classico "as it used to be".

Bright, luminous ruby red. On the nose, classic aromas of the grape variety with notes of small red fruits such as cherries and sour cherries alternating with spicy notes. On the palate, it is soft, carried by a dense tannin structure and a spicy, velvety finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sour cherries, raspberries, olives and tomato leaves on the nose. Dense and tasty with medium body and still slightly chewy tannins. Rustic and light-hearted." James Suckling

"Packaged with the dark green label, this is a new submission from Dievole. The organic 2020 Chianti Classico Casanova is all Sangiovese from a site with typical sandstone soils, locally called Macigno del Chianti, that formed 30 million years ago. These conditions help to underline the aromatic finesse of Sangiovese, and indeed, this wine offers a pretty medley of wild fruits, mint and blue flower." Wine Advocate

"Infused with black cherries and blackberries, this red wine starts elegantly and firms up on the textured finish. Iron, tar and wild herbs are evident on the long, tobacco-driven finish." Wine Spectator

Intense ruby red Vino Nobile Riserva with a spicy bouquet of aromas of dried fruit, cinnamon, cloves and liquorice. Smooth on the palate with a variety of nuances, beautiful fullness, structure and intensity, supple tannins. Very elegant pleasure at an excellent price. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich ruby red with a slightly brightening rim. Closed, slightly alcoholic nose, with some oxygen orange peel, plums, blueberries, black pepper behind it. Fresh and juicy on the palate with rather young tannins and a lingering finish." Falstaff

"The nose is dominated by aromas of red berries, with a subliminal hint of mushrooms and spices; the attack is compact, with robust tannins and a persistent final. Pleasing with its elegant facets and ageing potential." Vinum

"A restrained style with an intoxicating violet aroma, licorice freshness and cherry vibrancy. Polite and well-balanced on the nose as well as the palate with moderate alcohol, full body, velvety tannins and refreshing acidity. Red-cherry and licorice aftertaste." James Suckling

Dievoles Chianti Classico Petrignano is the result of the endeavour to highlight the identity characteristics of particularly suitable vineyards, leading to ever more precise expressions of Sangiovese. Petrignano is the name of a characteristic area with a soil rich in minerals and stones. At an altitude of around 330 metres, rocks protrude from the ground that are typical of the geological formation of Monte Morello. The abundance of stones, the depth of the roots and the low growth of the vines result in an expressive and lush wine from this characteristic and authentic cru site.

Intense ruby red colour. Very appealing bouquet dominated by ripe fruit, cherry and blackberry flavours. Juicy, full and rich on the palate, with flavours of blackberries and ripe fruit. Warm and velvety finish with fine and soft tannins that are very accentuated and interwoven with the fine acidity structure. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant medium ruby red with orange reflections. Lively cherry nose with some signs of development and hints of tobacco leaf and sweet spice. Flavoursome, juicy cherry fruit and crisp tannins. More energetic on the palate than on the nose, and that's where it hits the spot." Jancis Robinson

"Dark forest fruit with an earthy character offers great appeal. High acidity and tannins with very good length." Decanter

"This is a new addition to the Dievole portfolio with a cool retro-style label. The Chianti Classico Petrignano 2020 from organic farming is made from 100% Sangiovese, fermented in cement tulips and aged for 12 months in large oak barrels. The winemaking process is simple and to the point. The results show a vibrant freshness and a beautiful purity of fruit with a concentrated finish." Wine Advocate

"A supple red, imbued with a ray of cherry and strawberry fruit, with a texture that is silky at first, only to be overtaken by firm, dusty tannins. The finish reveals almond, earth and herbal notes that linger for a long time. Give it time for the two halves to come together." Wine Spectator

"A delicious, crisp red with very fine tannins and a lovely, delicate finish. Very tasty and with a creamy texture. Fresh finish." James Suckling

"From soils with a great limestone component, in particular Alberese, a pure Sangiovese with a blackberry aroma, hints of citron thyme and orange zest, then a finish with floral notes. Compact and dense palate, citrus-officinal return." Luca Gardini

Delicate, elegant Nerello Mascalese with fine aromas of red fruits and raspberries, enveloped in a pleasant citrus freshness. As the wine progresses, it develops a smoky note associated with the strong component of lava rock that characterises the volcanic soil of Etna. Lively, harmonious and full of flavour on the palate, it is a resolutely versatile wine that goes perfectly with a wide range of fish dishes, shellfish and white meats. SUPERIORE.DE

"Animavulcano offers a fragrant sip of dark cherry and raspberry. It's quite dense (courtesy of the vintage), with good acidity supporting the weight of fruit, accompanied by some spice and textural interest. Blood orange and bitter herbs emerge on the intense and very slightly drying finish." Decanter

"A rich and layered red Etna with sliced dried strawberries, plums, bark, dark mushrooms and some volcanic spice. It is medium to full-bodied with round, chewy tannins and a savoury finish. From organically grown grapes. Give it three or four years to mellow." James Suckling

Bright ruby colour, appealing bouquet of blackberries, orange peel, olives, peppercorns, herbs and oyster shells. Medium-bodied with supple tannins and a crisp, fresh and crunchy palate. Slightly salty. Juicy finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Cinnamon candy dominates the flavours, with vibrant blood orange, orange peel, raspberry and white pepper. Light to medium body with pronounced acidity and silky tannins that show a little more bite on the youthful, chewy finish." James Suckling

"The 2022 Alicante Nero is floral, savory and light on its feet. In other words, it’s a classic Ampeleia wine. Dark cherry, plum and tobacco appear with some coaxing to fill out the layers. This quirky, idiosyncratic wine is quite the charmer." Vinous

Here comes one of the probably least known charmers from the noble region around Montalcino. An exciting nose of barbecue smoke, onion and paprika. Very juicy and well-structured on the palate, the dark fruit flanked by rosemary and forest floor. Very accessible and yet independent in character and personality. Long and exciting. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red colour with a rich core. Hints of blackberry and dark cherry on the nose, reminiscent of plaster and candle wax on the finish. Juicy on the palate, flavours of wild berries and iron, firm tannins, balanced final." Falstaff

"Very pure dark- and blue-fruited nose with hints of violets, dried orange peel and graphite. Polished, almost silky on the medium-bodied palate, with very attractive juicy acidity. Savory and spiced at the end." James Suckling

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

"Bright ruby colour with a dark shimmer. Elegant on the nose, dark fruit of cherry and some blackberry, with juniper and sealing wax. Silky fruit melting on the palate, crisp tannins, supported by dancing acidity, very good drinking flow." Falstaff

"Brilliant ruby red colour. Perfumed, concentrated cherry nose with a hint of spice. Juicy and concentrated fruit, with fine, firm tannins, while the acidity becomes slightly tart on the finish." Jancis Robinson

"Exuberantly fragrant, with pomegranate, watermelon and a hint of rose. Fleshy berries fill out the core, but remain crisp and crunchy. It has a lovely clarity and plenty of zesty acidity. Light yet taut tannins create a clean frame." Decanter

"The nose is dominated by red fruits and flowers, but herbs and other savoury notes also make themselves known. In contrast, the palate is full of cherries and berries, creating a bright, exuberant feel that is enhanced by ample acidity, with dense, chalky tannins keeping things in check." Wine Enthusiast

"The Chianti Classico 2022 from Riecine is fabulous. It is followed by an explosion of red cherries, blood oranges and fragrant floral notes that give it freshness and brightness. The purity of the fruit is ravishing. This lively, savoury Chianti Classico is an absolute stunner. It is one of the outstanding wines of the year." Vinous

"A round, juicy and lively Chianti Classico with cherries, candied raspberries and mild spices on the nose, leading into a medium body with fine tannins and bright acidity. Lively character, with a juicy and lively finish." James Suckling,

"Red raspberries on the nose, with hints of wild mint and lime, lashes of bloodroot and cloves. The mouthfeel is fruity, with a hint of menthol. It closes with notes of citrus." Luca Gardini

A solid wine that excels every year is the exciting Nobile from Poliziano, which smells of dark red cherries, blackberries and roasted notes. Juicy, compact and polished on the palate, soft and balanced with silky tannins and a long, elegant finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark fruity perfume of black cherries and plums, peppery notes; pithy on the palate, robust tannins, beautiful character and good length." Vinum

"Rich and dense, this red wine shows flavours of black cherries, blackberries and blueberries, accentuated by earth and iron. All of this is supported by a lively acidity and strong tannins that are fresh and long-lasting on the finish." Wine Spectator

"A modern Vino Nobile with dark chocolate and some lush spices. Flavours of plums, roasted red peppers, berries and pine cones follow through to a dense, medium to full-bodied palate. It is firm and long." James Suckling

Argiano's Rosso di Montalcino is a very beautiful and expressive wine. Dried herbs, flowers, mint, liquorice and sweet red cherries adorn this attractive, medium-bodied Rosso. Medium textured on the palate, with lovely balance and clean notes of raspberry and candied violets. It is accessible early on and offers plenty of fun with its juicy overall impression through to a surprisingly long finish and is also an excellent accompaniment to food. SUPERIORE.DE

"Ruby red with a cherry-red centre. Fragrant nose of cherries, nutmeg and marjoram, with a leathery final. Firm body on the palate, very grippy tannins, wrapped in a juicy fruit melt, delicately bitter on the final." Falstaff

"Aromatically intense, the 2022 Rosso di Montalcino holds nothing back. It's vividly fruit forward yet with a burst of wild herbs and exotic spice to balance. This is harmonious and pure on the palate, with ample energy and verve as a cascade of crisp wild berry fruits swirl throughout. Only gently tannic yet full of youthful tension, the 2022 finishes fresh yet potent." Vinous

The structure of Cabernet Sauvignon, the spiciness of Cabernet Franc, the power of Syrah and the softness of Merlot combine here to create a red wine full of character, Mediterranean aromas and elegance. Dark red with a violet edge, fresh fruit bouquet of pomegranate and red currant with balanced hints of thyme, bay leaf and cedar. Initially very fresh and powerful on the palate with memories of raspberry and redcurrant, then round and harmonious, well structured and with soft tannin. SUPERIORE.DE

Owner Leonardo Pinzolo cultivates 52 hectares of biodynamic, Demeter-certified vineyards on his family farms in Popoli and Capestrano. The soils here differ from those in the rest of Abruzzo. Combined with the higher altitude of the vineyards and the proximity to the Gran Sasso mountains, these wines have a decidedly cooler expression than is usually found in Abruzzo. In the winery, fermentations are spontaneous and without temperature control. With the exception of a few single-vineyard wines, most of the wines are matured in stainless steel.

Brilliant medium carmine red colour. Initially somewhat reductively closed on the nose, Leonardo explains: "It's better if the wine is a little reduced when it comes into the bottle because it ages better that way." After a little air, a fine exotic flavour, lots of red fruit and notes of flowers. The surprise on the palate: a beautifully compact, juicy and transparent red fruit and lots of fine tannins, plus notes of liquorice and sweet cinnamon. A fresh, straightforward wine with the typical cool Valle-Reale profile and anything but arbitrary. SUPERIORE.DE

Ampeleias Cabernet Franc is a rare and Demeter-certified wine that opens with a bright, dark ruby-red colour. The wine is made with 20% whole bunches and the fruit comes from the high altitude Vigna dell'Asina, characterised by local soils known as Galestro and Palombino with elements of schist and limestone. This wine is very varietal with dark fruits and blackberries, spices and a green note of grilled rosemary or wild sage. SUPERIORE.DE

"A juicy, bright and pure Cabernet Franc with flavours of wild berries, sour cherries, wild herbs and crushed white pepper. It is medium-bodied with silky tannins. Velvety and subtle, with balance and a refined, flawless texture. Bright and seductive, with a lively, juicy finish. Made from biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification." James Suckling

"The 2022 Cabernet Franc is a real powerhouse. Black cherry, leather, plum, mocha, lavender and spice race across the palate. Although this year's Franc is not as expressive as it could be, it is still compelling. harvestshould expect a rare wine from the estate that packs a punch. This extroverted, wild red wine is a beauty." Vinous

Pithos Rosso was fermented spontaneously in the amphora and is a paragon of vibrancy, freshness, exoticism and elegance. Dried cherries, some leather and spices on the nose. Young and fresh on the palate, lively and yet extremely fragile. A perfectly crafted, mineral and highly unusual red that epitomises gentle biodynamics 100%. Be sure to aerate sufficiently before drinking! SUPERIORE.DE

"Darkly floral, the 2022 Rosso Pithos slowly evolves in the glass, blending roses and violets with crushed stone and hints of rhubarb. This creates a sensation of sweet-and-sour on the palate, with soft textures and juicy acidity guiding its tart red berry fruits and sour citrus tones. The 2022 tapers off long and staining yet only gently tannic, closing with notes of licorice and a lingering tart blackberry concentration. The Pithos is a zesty blend of 60% Nero d'Avola and 40% Frappato that’s refined for seven months in amphorae, followed by two to three months in concrete." Vinous

Foradori's Teroldegos are world-class and the best from this very special grape variety. Typical subtle flavours of blackberries, fine tannins, elegant and long. A warm, very delicate and exceptional red wine with great potential to be remembered! SUPERIORE.DE

Radiant cherry red. In the subtly elegant nose notes of red berries, cherry, violets and rose petals. Juicy and penetrating in the drink, with good pressure and a light herbal note to the spicy red fruits and floral aromas. The crisp acidity, typical of Barbera, is very well cushioned by the wine's extract-sweet fruit core. Fine tannins, medium-long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

Avignonesi's aromatic classic has a lean to medium body, seamless tannins and a delicious flavour profile. Intense ruby red with garnet-coloured reflections. On the nose, aromas of red berries, cherry, eucalyptus and pomegranate and the unmistakable scent of violets so typical of the Sangiovese grape, with a hint of vanilla and Mediterranean herbal spice in the background. Well-balanced on the palate, with beautiful primary notes of ripe cherry and plum. The warm, ethereal body is embedded in a dense tannin structure and leads into a long, persistent finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"A bright and lively Vino Nobile with aromas of cherry, violet and hibiscus and hints of peach and lemon that continue through to a medium body. Fine and integrated tannins and a lively finish with plenty of energy. Made from biodynamically grown grapes. Vegan. Needs another year or two to show its true excellence, but is already a beautiful and straightforward wine." James Suckling

Crognolo is a wonderfully balanced wine that offers the tangy freshness and acidity of Sangiovese, which is balanced and softened by the small proportion of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine smells of cherry, blackberry and plum. Its primary intensity is bright and cheerful. The finish shows a nice density, extraction and well-integrated tannins. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Crognolo 2021 is a great entry-level wine from Sette Ponti. An explosion of red/purple fruits, blood orange, spices and rose petals race across the palate, lifted by bright acids that add energy. All elements are very well balanced. This is a very inviting wine." Vinous

"Dusty, perfumed aromas of spiced plums with sour cherries and dried cherries are followed in the mouth by a vertical palate full of fine-grained tannins, fresh acidity and juicy fruit. It feels balanced and upright, ready to spring into action as soon as the cork is pulled. Vibrant red and black fruits intermingle, punctuated by a certain saltiness and supported by those tannins. The finish is long, juicy and flavoursome and leaves you wanting another sip." Decanter

"This young red wine shows all its components in the right place, but needs time to integrate. It offers flavours of cherry, violet, earth, iron and mint, which fade into powerful tannins on the finish." Wine Spectator

"Bright ruby violet colour. Expressive flavours of blackberries and rich cherries, with fine spicy components in the background. Compact, concentrated on the palate, with grippy tannins that also become juicy, salty on the finish." Falstaff

"The wine shows dark concentration, certainly more than you'd expect from Sangiovese, with lots of cherry, spice and blue flower that ties directly into the Merlot. It offers a medium to full-bodied texture with fine, chalky tannins." Wine Advocate

"Ultra-fresh, juicy cherries with more delicate aromas of violets and rose petals on the nose roll onto a palate rich with more cherries and berries balanced by earthy, tart notes of earth, branches and roots and a finish of bitter cocoa and aniseed." Wine Enthusiast

"The purity of the fruit in this wine is impressive, with redcurrants, orange peel, peaches and lemon on the nose and palate. Full-bodied yet compressed and agile. Tasty finish. Restrained now, but given a year or two it will come into its own." James Suckling

The name "Mimuèt" (to my taste) comes from Ladin. Convinced that South Tyrol offers the best conditions for the Pinot Noir grape variety, Alois Lageder paid particular attention to it at a very early stage. His goal is to produce wines with precision, lightness and filigree structure. Garnet red with ruby reflexes. Pinot Noir Mimuèt smells of ripe black cherries, flowers and spices. On the palate, elegant, almost light on its feet, with a multi-layered, soft finish. SUPERIORE.DE

Volpolo is the highly elegant second wine from the up-and-coming Bolgheri winery Podere Sapaio. Spicy notes on the nose, full, long and intense flavour with silky tannins and restrained refinement. A more than respectable representative of the noble Tuscan region with an excellent value. SUPERIORE.DE

"Restrained brambleberries with licorice root, slightly leafy eucalyptus and integrated graphite. Full body with elegant, velvety tannins, crisp acidity and a tight-knit structure. Power and extraction here, but a good, toasty finish with a sweet-tobacco aftertaste. One of the best examples of 2022." James Suckling

With the Vignota, vinified from five different vineyards, the winery also proves that a great deal of excitement is possible even in the so-called entry-level range. Thanks to the marl and limestone soils, this wine offers plenty of natural intensity. Delicious bouquet of cherry jam, mint and rose petals. Very densely woven on the palate, with a juiciness, freshness and subtle fruit sweetness that makes this wine an irresistible accompaniment to food. SUPERIORE.DE

"This rich Barbera is full of black cherries, blackberries and plums and shows a slight hint of toasted oak on the finish. Well integrated and long." Wine Spectator

"The 2022 Barbera d'Alba Vignota is a beautiful expression with elegant fruit, dried blueberries, blackcurrants and a dusty mineral note framing the whole with clean and crisp lines. It has a medium fullness of fruit and an alcohol level of 15%, which is picked up by the wine's dense texture. Nevertheless, this is by no means a heavy wine." Wine Advocate

"A red with ripe berries, strawberries and hints of orange peel. Medium- to full-bodied with juicy tannins. Round and slightly crunchy." James Suckling

Classic Nebbiolo from the now not-so-young vines of the Starderi cru vineyard, among others, which rivals many a Barbaresco: Bright, intense ruby colour with garnet rim, elegant bouquet with lots of fresh, clear berry fruit, pronounced acidity on the palate at the beginning, which then gives way to beautiful fruit and well-proportioned tannins. SUPERIORE.DE

"Just bottled, the 2023 Langhe Nebbiolo is terrific. A blend of La Spinetta's four sites (Starderi, Valeirano, Gallina and Campè), the Langhe Nebbiolo is an excellent introduction to the Spinetta range. Black cherry, plum, chocolate, licorice, lavender and dried herbs are all amplified in a succulent, opulent Langhe Nebbiolo that over-delivers." Vinous

Wonderful, deep aroma of dark wild cherries, crushed raspberries, pomegranate, roses and peppery herbs. Dense but not heavy on the palate, long and pure with multi-layered subtle fruit flavours. Salty minerals and violet blossom emerge on the finish, along with nuanced tannins that create a classically dry feel on the elegant finish. This wine is already an absolute pleasure to drink, and although it tastes great now, it will continue to refine in the bottle for several years. A sensual and enjoyable wine, 60 per cent Nero d'Avola from oak barrels and 40 per cent Frappato matured in a vitrified cement vat. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2021 Cerasuolo di Vittoria entices with a dusty bouquet of citrus-laced blackberries, dried violets and sweet smoke. This is pure and lifted in style, communicating undeniable elegance with a silken wave of ripe wild berry fruit that swirls throughout. It finishes classically dry yet only gently tannic, leaving hints of black raspberry and spice to linger. The 2021 is simply stunning today and has the balance to evolve beautifully through medium-term cellaring." Vinous

"Nectarine flavours leap from the glass with lemon blossom and crushed stone. Medium-bodied with integrated tannins that envelop and caress the palate. Fine and delicious." James Suckling