PREMIUM SALE | Magnum

Montevetrano's "second wine" shows, as so often, the great class of Silvia Imparato's winery. Great Aglianico nose of blue flowers, wild berries, blackberries and black cherry. Silky and powerful at the same time, very deep and herbaceous, with a fine mineral vein and a well-proportioned tannin. The already existing elegance will increase with further maturity. Very successful! SUPERIORE.DE

"Sweet violet florals lift effortlessly from the 2017 Montevetrano Core, followed by white smoke, crushed blackberry, and cherry, as dark earth tones evolve. On the palate, silky textures are complemented by polished black fruits, as savory herbs and minerals slowly saturate the senses. The finish is medium in length, resonating on mineral-laden dark fruits and hints of spice, with a coating of fine tannin providing grip. I find myself craving more depth here, yet this is wonderfully balanced and already very easy to like." Vinous

"The Montevetrano 2017 Aglianico Core reveals a dark and velvety appearance with pretty color saturation. Core is a genuine and honest wine that does a very nice job of portraying the basics of Aglianico. You get the power and structure of the fruit, as well as the grape's dark and savory aromas of blackberry, cassis and dark cherry. The wine also promises freshness and accessibility. Try this with a montanara fritta, a fried, thick mini-pizza from Naples stuffed with provolone, salami and tomato sauce." Wine Advocate

"A full-bodied and structured red with spice, black-pepper and bark undertones to the cherries and dried fruit. Some dried earth, too. Extremely powerful. Try after 2023." James Suckling

The Rosato from Livio Felluga is one of the rare representatives of its kind in Friuli. Beguiling bouquet of roses, pineapple and maritime rock. Elegant on the palate with fresh acidity; the fine and restrained style is somewhat reminiscent of the sought-after counterpart of Nerello Mascalese from the high altitudes of Etna. Traces of redcurrant and papaya on the finish. SUPERIORE.DE

Medoro's famous top-quality Montepulciano Adrano, which elegantly and typically spreads a fine fruity aroma. The taste is led by a rich fruit that is excellently embedded in a full, deliciously spicy structure. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2015 Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Adrano lifts up with an alluring display of crushed black cherries, sweet spices, violet florals and a hint of vanilla bean. This is silky and elegant in texture, contrasted by brisk acids and balsamic-tinged black fruits. Fine tannins linger, framing the expression nicely as the Adrano finishes savory with tart wild berries and minerals." Vinous

"The Villa Medoro 2015 Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Colline Teramane Adrano shows a classic aromatic profile with dark fruit tones followed by leather and mild tobacco. This wine ages in oak for 12 months, and the impact of that wood emerges mostly in terms of the rich and slightly dense texture of the mouthfeel. Those contrasts between dark fruit and oak spice are nicely played, and they are perfectly suited to a rib-eye steak." Wine Advocate

Monica Raspi produces her Riserva from a single vineyard with the oldest vines of the winery, planted in 2000. The east-facing vineyard lies at an altitude of 350 metres and the soil is poor and stony with many limestone deposits. With its subtle bouquet, it slowly but surely seduces with aromas of raspberries, cherries and thyme flowers. The palate is wonderfully elegant, with a stony minerality and a tangy, appetising backbone. Terracotta-like tannins sneak up and envelop the fruit rather than undermine it. This is how pristine and good Chianti Classico Riserva goes! SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2019 Chianti Classico Riserva Vigna Pomona is bursting with wild cherry, smoke, licorice, tobacco, game, incense and mocha. This somber, potent Riserva packs tons of intensity into its full-bodied frame. Graphite, lavender, sage and dried flowers linger on the imposing finish. I would give this a year or two in bottle." Vinous

"A concentrated red wine with aromas of cherry, plum, iron, eucalyptus and resin. Straightforward and taut, with refined tannins for support. Complex and lively, with a firm, long finish." Wine Spectator

"The oak remains very much in the background, allowing the fruit to come through fully. It's beautifully weighted with red and blackcurrants wrapped in terracotta-like tannins and balanced by lively, crisp acidity. Damp earth, green herbs and stony minerals slowly emerge. With time, this wine will show more of its generous side." Decanter

Classic Bolgheri Rosso with a strong bouquet of raspberries and redcurrants, cassis and a little tobacco. Juicy, full-bodied flavour, beautiful tannins and good acidity. A wonderful introduction to the great world of Le Macchiole wines. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Bolgheri Rosso 2021 is a great wine that shows how convincing this vintage is on the Tuscan coast. Exuberant and deep, the 2021 is wonderfully complex from start to finish. Gentle notes of mocha, new leather, cedar, tobacco and dried flowers add complexity." Vinous

"Refined combination of black berries, coffee and dried flowers; on the palate with character, robust tannins, lingering fruit and herbal notes on the finish." Vinum

"Bright ruby violet colour. Discreet and fine on the nose, of pine needles, cold smoke and ripe wild berries. Gripping on the palate, with young, still somewhat impetuous tannins, shows great juiciness in the finish, still needs a little patience." Falstaff

"Attractive aromas of dark berries with crushed walnuts, savoury herbs and dusty earth tones. Medium to full-bodied with a firm grip of tannins that are fine and polished. A juicy acidity cuts through the linear finish. Fresh with a stony minerality that shines through on the finish." James Suckling

"The wine shows itself from the start with powerful but also very fresh fruit flavours of dark cherries and blackberries. The quality of the primary fruit is perfect, especially in this balanced vintage, and you get powerful flavours that go well with grilled meat. The wine has tremendous structure, acidity and elegant tannins." Wine Advocate

"On the nose, sweet, slightly tart aromas of cherries and blackberries are balanced by a stony, spicy earthiness. That interplay between tart fruit and sanguine earthiness continues on the palate, creating the sensation of a breath of fresh spring air after the rain, before chalky tannins and bright acid usher in a bitter, peppery finish." Wine Enthusiast

"This pure and expressive red wine is characterised by aromas of cherries, raspberries and blackberries, complemented by iron, spices and light herbal notes. Lean and elegant, with a juicy profile and excellent persistence on the finish." Wine Spectator

Dievoles' new Chianti Classico, just released with the debut vintage 2019, is the result of the effort 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 about 330 metres, rocks protrude from the ground, 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. Very appealing bouquet dominated by ripe fruit, cherry and blackberry aromas. Juicy, full and rich on the palate, with blackberry and ripe fruit flavours. Warm and velvety finish with fine and soft tannins that are very accentuated interwoven with the fine acid structure. SUPERIORE.DE

"Lustrous ruby. Deep, complex cherry nose. Mouth-filling cherry fruit with lots of chewy tannins and vibrant, juicy acidity on the finish. With this wine the estate has turned a corner." Jancis Robinson

"A bright, easygoing CC with aromas and flavors of sour cherries and flowers. Barely medium-bodied with some racy, grapefruit freshness on the palate. Remains bright and fresh." James Suckling

"This is a new submission from Dievole that focuses on the Sangiovese grape exclusively. The organic 2019 Chianti Classico Petrignano is fermented in tulip-shaped cement vats and aged in botte grande for 13 months. The wine offers easy balance and freshness with textbook aromas of cherry, wild fruit, tar and smoke. It's all very becoming for an entry-level wine such as this." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of licorice, menthol and ripe dark-skinned berry carry over to the linear, savory palate along with orange zest before an almost salty finish. It's polished, with fine-grained tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"Petrignano is a new wine for Dievole, the result of the estate’s collaboration with Chilean soil specialist, Pedro Parra. It comes from a recently planted 15ha site between 300 and 330 metres above sea level, distinguished by an abundance of limestone near the surface. The nose is flinty and iron-speckled, giving way to sun-soaked wild berries. It balances the generous warmth of the south with freshness and long, chalky tannins, sneaking some vibrant acidity in there too." Decanter

"This beautiful version of Chianti Classico shows off Castelnuovo Berardenga territory, with notes of blackberry jam on the nose, then touches of lime tree and nutmeg. Iodine-brackish sip, of nice density, with persistent and fruity-officinal return on the closure." Luca Gardini

Sgarzon is a single vineyard, barely more than a kilometre from Morei as the crow flies, but here the Noce has deposited more sand in the upper layers of soil, the plot is more open and thus less protected from cold winds. The grapes ripen about a week later. Teroldego Sgarzon is fabulous, delicate and full of richness and energy from the attack to the final. The bouquet - an exciting blend of dark fruits, tobacco, flowers, liquorice, mint and minerals. Very clear, pure and clean on the palate. SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep purple red, very similar to the colour of the 2020, so no indication that it is a year older. The flavour is a little deeper and more intense compared to the 2020, perhaps less delicately aromatic, a little spicier. There's still that dark red fruit character, more dark (but not sweet) cherry, and the floral note is still there, but it's deeper and needs to be found rather than offering itself so freely. The tannins are a little firmer, but still with that superfine grain. There's tension and energy and a sense of life waiting to explode. Gently chewy texture and deliciously fresh on the finish. Juicy. Amazingly long." Jancis Robinson

"The Teroldego Sgarzon 2019 takes its time to open up in the glass, but the wait is worth it, as its bouquet consists of crushed ash stones, blackcurrants and exotic spices. As dark and brooding as its aroma, it is also surprisingly energetic and powerful on the palate. A mixture of piquant acidity and tart wild berries collide and create tension and contrasts. Sweet tannins and minerals hold the senses until the long and dramatic final, promising many more years of development. The 2019 Sgarzon is intense, but also playful. I can't wait to taste this vintage again in a few years." Vinous

"This red wine has an extreme mountain wine personality, expressed in an abundance of wild herb and cranberry flavours, crisp acidity and a taut body. Somehow the generous and slightly juicy tannins blend seamlessly into the wine's lean profile. Long, crisp and mineral finish." James Suckling

Feudi's Riserva Piano di Montevergine is only vinified in outstanding years. The wine has a very impressive concentration and great richness. On the nose dark fruit, blackberry, flowers and spices, on the palate elegant, powerful flavours flanked by silky polished tannins and wood aromas. A wine with enormous potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark and brooding, the 2015 Taurasi Riserva Piano di Montevergine slowly awakens in the glass with a captivating blend of menthol, mint and exotic spices that evolves with a vibrant note of cinnamon-dusted currants. Velvety smooth and elegant, this wine seems heavy at first, but is quickly enlivened by a core of vibrant acidity and zesty citrus notes that embellish the tart black fruits. The tannins on the finish are sweet and chalky, while notes of wild red plums and blood oranges keep the taster coming back." Vinous

"Rich ruby red with a slightly lightening rim. In the nose rather restrained at the beginning, then after ripe cranberries, sour cherries and plums, in the reverberation underbrush and tobacco. Powerful and lush on the palate, with polished tannin, finely balanced, has power, long and balsamic final." Falstaff

"Fleshy and vegetal notes on the nose with dried earth and pistachio skin. Also cloves. It is full-bodied with layers of ripe and dried black fruits, cloves, walnuts and smoked meat." James Suckling

"Sourced from the villages of Piano di Montevergine and Taurasi, this Riserva is harvested from relatively young vines aged between 15 and 20 years. Aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, it focuses on graphite minerality and restrained cassis, enhanced by an herbaceous character and wild dark fruits linked by cocoa powder on the nose and palate. The tannins are velvety with tremendous mid-palate extraction and powerful acidity, yet the wine is balanced due to the great fruit concentration. Overall a bold style that will improve with age." Decanter

"This is a great vintage with plenty of spice and smoke. The 2015 is more explosive and the 2016 is more direct, refined and elegant. This wine has great volume in the mouth and is very impressive. Historically the best vintages of this important wine include 1999, 2001, 2010 and 2013." Wine Advocate

Dark ruby red, in the Bouquet aromas of ripe, red fruits and a fine wood spice. Elegant, soft, complex and fresh, the taste is exuberant and very flattering. A masterpiece from the Basilicata! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright purple-ruby. Aromas and flavors of dark plum, black cherry and sweet spices are complemented by a strong balsamic note. Bright and juicy, with a lovely mineral tang and harmonious acidity lifting the steely red fruit flavors and extending them through a long floral finish. Outstanding wine." Ian d’Agata (vinous.com)

Dark ruby red, in the Bouquet aromas of ripe, red fruits and a fine wood spice. Elegant, soft, complex and fresh, the taste is exuberant and very flattering. A masterpiece from the Basilicata! SUPERIORE.DE

"Here's another great vintage from Elena Fucci, the ascending star of a rising wine region in the deep south of Italy. The 2015 Aglianico del Vulture Titolo shows a dark garnet color and robust appearance. Very characteristic of this extreme territory, this is a dark and penetrating wine with etched mineral notes behind blackberry, plum and savory spice. This vintage presents an even darker quality of fruit. In the mouth, you get iron, blood and dark mineral nuances that are absolutely typical of these darkened volcanic soils." Wine Advocate

"Fresh and well-meshed, this is a medium- to full-bodied red, with creamy tannins and a rich note of smoke-tinged mineral underscoring the lovely range of ripe black cherry, dried thyme and fig cake flavors and hints of ground cumin and white pepper. This is round and finely balanced, with a long, lingering finish that echoes the spice and mineral detail." Wine Spectator

"Elena Fucci crafts one single wine. The piercing and focused Titolo exudes incense, violet, dark earth and black cherry. Volcanic soil translates with vibrant energy. Muscular rather than plump and built to last." Decanter

The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione is made from 100% Sangiovese, the grapes come from vineyards with the best sites. The Gran Selezione with its dark ruby red colour is impressive in the glass. The nose is explosive with small ripe berries, hints of rose petals, lavender and thyme. Warm and full on the palate, spicy and very authentic. This wine is reminiscent of the Greve in Chianti sub-region with cool afternoon winds blowing over wild and largely wooded areas. This is what Tuscany tastes like! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, intense ruby with a fine garnet rim. Opens with notes of dried cherries and tomatoes, seems a bit restrained. On the palate much accentuated acidity, shows fresh, crisp cherry fruit, some rough tannin." Falstaff

"Approachable for its fluid texture, this red is austere in flavor, displaying cherry, almond and tobacco flavors. Firm, with fine length and a resonant, racy finish." Wine Spectator

"Very floral on the nose with lavender and lilacs, as well as black cherries. Medium-bodied with tight tannins and tangy acidity. Flavorful finish. It’s linear, driven and lightly chewy. Very typical." James Suckling

"The 2017 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione is positively stellar. Cedar, rose petal, pipe tobacco, anise, blood orange and new leather give the 2017 striking aromatic presence to balance the natural richness of the year. Statuesque and resonant in the glass, the Gran Selezione is a real standout - a true winner." Vinous

Serpico is an authentic, long-lasting wine made from Aglianico grapes, some of which come from vines that are over 100 years old. Intense, deep ruby red colour and an extremely complex bouquet with aromas of cherries, sweet spices, liquorice, coffee and cocoa. Its exceptional concentration and flavour as well as the enormously long-lasting finish are impressive. SUPERIORE.DE

"A beautiful nose of ripe red berries with sweet vanilla and chocolate. Medium body with firm tannins and good acidity that brightens the character of the black and red cherries. Good balance and length." James Suckling

"Firm and minerally, with a core of fine, dense tannins wrapped in flavours of crushed black and red cherries, iron, earth, tobacco and dark chocolate. Fresh and graceful on the palate despite its tight mesh, it opens slowly and lingers on the well-seasoned finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2016 Aglianico Serpico is impossibly fresh, with an array of hauntingly dark florals, steeped plums and white smoke forming its inviting bouquet. This is racy and sleek, also intensely mineral, with silky textures offset by tart wild berry fruits. Zesty acidity balances it all out, and hints of sour citrus add penetrating contrast. A wall of edgy tannins emerges through the dramatically long finish, leaving an air of balsamic spice and espresso bean to mingle under a waft of mentholated herbs. The 2016 will require a considerable amount of cellaring to come fully into balance." Vinous

"The Feudi di San Gregorio 2016 Irpinia Aglianico Serpico has taken the proverbial turn towards tertiary flavours, or at least a first turn, showing pressed blackberries and blackcurrants surrounded by tarry smoke, campfire ash and toasted spices. The 2016 vintage will be remembered for its power and inner elegance, and these are the very qualities that have carried this wine so far and will continue to define its journey in the bottle. The finish reveals dusty volcanic notes and dry tannins with a medium-heavy mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

"The savoury bouquet shows the weathered sophistication of leather, cigars, earth and pepper, while undertones of oregano, tomatoes and cherries provide a burst of energy. On the lighter palate, the cherry element is emphasised by raspberry, but the spicy balance remains. The acidity plays around bright but firm tannins." Wine Enthusiast

This beautiful cuvée of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot from a great vintage presents itself impeccably! Deep, complex fruit bouquet, rounded off by fine sweet spices, tobacco and coffee. Punchy and textured on the palate, blackberry, raspberry and a solidly woven tannin structure in the several-minute final. A wine with great development potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2017 Fratta lifts up with a dark and alluring display of black currants, sweet herbs, rich notes of mocha and savory brown spice. This is cool-toned and spicy, a bit lean, yet with a polished feel, showing tart blackberries offset by hints of sour citrus and toasty oak, as violet-tinged florals form toward the close. Fine tannins make themselves known throughout the finale, as this tapers off lightly structured, with hints of licorice lingering long." Vinous

"Deep, dense aromas of crushed black fruit with notes of charcoal and dried herbs, such as rosemary and thyme. The fruit envelops the lightly firm tannins on the full-bodied palate, creating a dense, velvety and lengthy mouthful. A well-crafted red that’s highly concentrated and bursting with flavor, but it also shows astute balance." James Suckling

"Here's an iconic wine from the Veneto made from a blend of 68% Cabernet Sauvignon and 32% Merlot. The Maculan 2017 Fratta shows enormous intensity, muscle and brawn. The wine has absorbed every last drop of sunshine, heat and dry weather conditions that characterized the 2017 growing season, and it does so with elegance and poise. The wine is impeccably balanced with dark fruit and spice. It's the kind of big-boned red wine you'll want to pair with a hearty dish of barbecue or marinated beef." Wine Advocate

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

"Dark shining ruby garnet. Noble-scented, spicy nose of ripe green pepper, violet and cassis, distinctly of freshly ground peppercorn, reverberating with ivy. Juicy and clear on the palate, tightens up precisely, with well-balanced fruit and acidity, will age superbly." Falstaff

"An exciting, energetic wine that finally gives the carmenere grape (from Bordeaux) a positive profile in Northeastern Italy, where it arrived in the late 19th century. Complex mushroom, soy–sauce and spicy character. The racy tannins and acidity are married to the juicy and vibrant palate, which breaks the mold for this region decisively!" James Suckling

"From the moment I tilt the glass, the 2016 Carmenere makes itself known with an intensely spicy and pungently floral bouquet that mixes crushed stone and smoke with dried flowers, white pepper and red currant. It’s undeniably silky and refined, yet medium in body, as tart wild berries mix with savory spices and hints of sour citrus, all enlivened by juicy acidity. While long and saturating with primary concentration, the 2016 comes across as only lightly structured yet harmonious, with a subtle coating of sweet tannin and sour citrus that lingers, along with hints of tart raspberry and minerals. There's an open–knit feel to this today, but it also has the balance for a long evolution. Very nice." Vinous

"The Tenuta San Leonardo 2016 Carmenère is less immediately expressive compared to the warm 2015 vintage that I tasted at the same time. However, my money is on this bottle for longer aging potential, and I'm sure the wine's aromas will prove fluid and complex with additional bottle age. Even now, it shows enormous precision with dark fruit, spice and a good dose of crushed white pepper." Wine Advocate

As a result of extensive soil research, Francesco Ricasoli was able to identify three microlocations, which will be vinified separately from the 2015 vintage onwards. The range of Chianti Classico Gran Selezione now includes, in addition to the famous Castello di Brolio, three cru sites (Colledilà, Roncicone and Ceniprimo), all of which are 100% planted with Sangiovese. They differ in structure and taste in close correspondence with their terroir and impressively demonstrate the complexity of the Chanti Classico region.

Cru Roncicone comes from soils with maritime deposits. It is a 10.1 hectare plot planted between 1998 and 2000 at a density of 6,000 plants per hectare. The soils are rich in marine fossils with sand at the top and thicker clay under the topsoil. Our impression of this wine is that it is the most immediately and softly structured.

Deep dark, fruity-smoky bouquet. On the palate then dark, violet fruits, paired with notes of forest floor, tobacco and a nice spiciness. The volume is full and deep, the tannins very accessible even at a young age and the finish is flanked by a well-structured acidity framework, which will also ensure a very good ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Comes from river alluvial soils at 320 metres above sea level: multi-faceted bouquet with subtle mineral notes, lots of polish and yet also character; compact texture, tannins and acidity well balanced, elegant and youthful finish. Can mature." Vinum

"Shiny ruby-garnet. Finely marked nose with notes of raspberry, some strawberry, underlaid with fine spices in the background, multilayered. Intense fresh fruit on the palate, unfolds with polished tannin in many layers, long and deep, slightly smoky notes on the final." Falstaff

"Linear and compact, offering a core of cherry and strawberry singed by iron, tobacco and oak spice flavors. There's intensity to this, combined with a firm structure and balanced in a tightly wound package, showing excellent length." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Roncicone emerges from a parcel on marine soils that naturally yield a bright, taut expression of Sangiovese. Sweet red berry fruit, flowers, chalk, mint and blood orange bring out the more lifted, red-toned expression of Sangiovese. The Roncicone is another very pretty wine in this range from Brolio." Vinous

"Aromas of minerals, crushed stones and cherries. Pine needles, too. Floral. Full-to medium-bodied with a tight, linear palate and super fine tannins. Extremely deep. Fresh. Light saltiness. Give this three or four years to open." James Suckling

Ceretto vinifies four masterful site Baroli with the Bricco Rocche, Bussia, Brunate and Prapò. If you cannot decide between these wines, you will find this excellent alternative in the winery's basic Barolo.

Elegant, bright ruby red. Dark intensity with great aromatic richness, including ripe cherry and raspberry, paired with noble spice and gentle use of wood. Fruity and floral notes are followed by traces of iron and a delicate portion of liquorice. The aromas are delicate and fragile, and the wine cleverly hides its power in the soft folds of its slender, medium-weight mouthfeel. Polished and clear on the palate, spreads out with delicate creamy tannins, salty undertones, great length. SUPERIORE.DE

"Gorgeous plum aromas with flowers and hints of hazelnuts and dried nuts. Full-bodied with firm tannins. Goes on for minutes. So solid. From organically grown grapes. Surprisingly tight and structured. Needs time to open." James Suckling

After a hot August and a relatively early harvest at the end of September, owner Christoph Künzli was more than surprised by the first barrel samples. Instead of a rather ripe, muscular red, he had a wine in his glass that could hardly be surpassed in elegance. Therefore, he opted for a longer ageing and the bottling took place only after 4 years of barrel ageing. The result is a soft, extremely complex wine with a drinkability that is further enhanced by its great texture.

Powerful nose with aromas of fine spices and small red berries. On the palate, very complex and forward: The red fruits, plums and cherries furiously play around all the taste buds. A hint of liquorice, the perfectly balanced interplay of tannin and acidity flank the aromatic charge with finesse and freshness into an almost endless final. Majestic and excellently structured.

The grapes for Christoph Künzli's top wine come from the best small vineyards of the Boca DOC. The soils there consist of humus-poor porphyry of vucan origin with a light red colour and are rich in salts and minerals. This minerality of the soils and the distinctive structure and class of the Nebbiolo grape combine in the winery's flagship to create an expressive, brilliant dream of a wine that has long enjoyed cult status among connoisseurs. SUPERIORE.DE

"Le Piane's 2011 Boca is simply dazzling. Rich, translucent and remarkably vivid, the 2011 encapsulates all the reasons the wines from Alto Piemonte are so compelling. Sweet red cherry, rose petal, chalk, blood orange and mint are front and center, but it is the wine's superb textural polish that elevates it among some pretty lofty company among the great wines of Italy. The flavors are bold and pungent, but there is also striking depth to the fruit that ensures the savory notes aren't overpowering. This is simply a magical bottle. That's all there is to it." Vinous

Gulfi's top Pinò is a pure expression of Pinot Nero from Etna. When the Etna appellation began its rise about ten years ago, many producers committed themselves to growing the Burgundian grape variety on the charred slopes of this mighty volcano. Significant plantings of Pinot Nero never occurred, however, as many winemakers opted instead for the autochthonous Nerello Mascalese grape variety. Gulfi remains faithful to Pinot Nero on Etna, the grapes for Pinò come from 800 metres above sea level on the northern slope of the volcano.

It opens with a dark saturated colour and heavy aromas of dried cherries and cassis, plus a hint of floral notes. Its mouthfeel is polished and fresh, on the palate Pinò shows all the characteristics of a lean, compact but very intense wine that has plenty of tension and energy. Its slightly bitter note, a combination of cherry pits and sour citrus fruits, lasts until the tense final. Ultimately, this wine is more an expression of the Etna than the grape variety, its proud yet joyful personality making it irresistible. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2016 Pinò, or Pinot Noir, is much darker in the glass that you might anticipate. It delivers masses of ripe black cherries and sweet autumnal spice, all engulfed in an air of crushed-stone minerality. The textures are silky, cast upon a medium-bodied frame, with tart cherry and balsam herbs energized by brisk acidity. Notes of licorice and rich plum sauce linger as this tapers off with a delicate feel. The Pinò hails from the northern slope of Etna, with vines planted in 2008 at 800 meters of elevation." Vinous

"An excellent pinot noir from Sicily? Yes! The wild-strawberry and sour-cherry nose pulls you into this ripe yet elegant red that's very silky, in spite of the healthy tannins that anchor it at the deep, dark finish. Plenty of life ahead of it!" James Suckling

"The organic Gulfi 2016 Pinò gives us a good look at Pinot Noir cultivated on the volcanic soils of Etna at an impressive 850 meters above sea level where solar luminosity is aplenty but average temperatures are cooler. With a restrained 13% alcohol content, this wine delivers elegant and lean fruit weight with steady aromas of cassis, wild cherry and summer rose. The wine's overall personality remains subdued and true to the grape with plenty of fresh berry fruit spread over a lean and crisp mouthfeel. The results are terrific in this 3,000-bottle release that should hold firm to the 10-year mark and beyond. Despite these extreme growing conditions, this wine remains elegant and pure." Wine Advocate

The grapes for Le Ripi's top Brunello come from a 4 ha vineyard near Castelnuovo dell'Abate on the east side of Montalcino, not far from the Lupi e Sirene vineyard. Amore e Magia inspires first of all by the beauty in the glass: a deep ruby with violet, fuchsia accents. On the nose, a very clear, concise bouquet with a disarming openness that immediately captivates. We detect candied fruits, raspberries, roasted nuts and Christmas spices, then notes of leather. The first impression on the palate is rather silky and floral, the fine saltiness and the wonderfully integrated acidity provide vital freshness and the solidly woven tannin builds up energetically and flanks every sip until the dramatic, extremely multilayered final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Still marked by distinct toasty notes, with ripe plums and dark cherries, plus spicy cedar and liquorice notes in the background. On the palate with polished richness, stylish and wonderfully melting, seems a bit modern in style but nicely balanced and lively, the tannin is quite polished and still a bit rough-gripped, still needs to complete itself." Weinwisser

"Bright ruby garnet with a rich core. Very fragrant and inviting nose, of ripe, fleshy plums, some pickled cherries, plus liquorice in the background. Round and balanced on the palate, opens with beautiful forest fruit, grippy, dense tannin, fine melting in between, firm pressure in the final." Falstaff

"The bouquet on the 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Amore e Magia is seriously impressive. A beguiling mix of dusty violets, exotic spices, cedar, clove and black cherries wafts up and holds my attention firm. The textures are soothingly plush yet lifted, featuring a sweet and sour display of tart wild berries contrasted by minerals, minty herbs and hints of candied citrus. The tannins arrive late, as this finishes structured and classically dry with nuances of blood orange and wild strawberries. The 2017 Amore e Magia has taken the warmth of the vintage in stride to deliver a Brunello packed full of balanced pleasures." Vinous

"The Podere le Ripi 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Amore e Magia is emerging as this estate's top-shelf wine, even though it started its life as a Rosso di Montalcino some years ago. It sports a pretty dark ruby color with a nicely concentrated appearance. The bouquet is extremely elegant and finely tuned with sweet cherry, wild rose, lavender bud, candied orange and iron ore. The effect is graceful and delicate, with tart background notes of currant and forest fruit. The tannins are tight and still nervous, and I suggest giving this wine more time in bottle." Wine Advocate

Massimo Piccin lives the dream of giving new expression to Bordeaux grapes from Bolgheri and producing wines that combine power, elegance and longevity. And so the Sapaio magnificently offers its full, vital and tannin-rich style and takes a lot of time for the finish. Once again, part of the grapes come from Bibbona, i.e. outside the Bolgheri DOC, so that this great wine is only allowed to bear the label Toscana IGT. Truly no reason to mope ...

Beautiful, animating bouquet of blackcurrants, blueberries, lavender and a delicate hint of chocolate. Firm, full-bodied, multi-layered on the palate with an attractive extract sweetness, finely woven but definitely present tannin and a resting, seamless substance that leaves nothing to be desired until the long and tasty finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Polished aromas of blueberries, mulberries, baking spice, sandalwood and rosemary. It’s full-bodied with tight, chewy tannins. Structured and layered with a fleshy texture. Try from 2023." James Suckling

"The 2018 Sapaio is distinguished by a lovely dark garnet-toned appearance that is deep and thickly concentrated but not without its shimmer and shine. Massimo Piccin shows a deft hand in a vintage that was not easy along the Tuscan coast. This wine is especially bright and focused in terms of its aromas, with black fruit, plum and ripe blackberry. Hints of spice and pipe tobacco add vertical lift and softness. The finish is leaner than we've seen in the past, but that 2018 austerity suits this wine well." Wine Advocate

Dark ruby with garnet-coloured inclusions. Beautiful dark fruit, plus plum, spice and tobacco. Le Lucere has a subtle oak flavour and the power and persistence of the Sangiovese grape. It is already a worthy representative of its appellation at a young age and will become even more elegant over the years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Aromas of red forest fruits, cloves and leather; clear texture, the tannins polished, in balance with the acidity, persistent fruity finish, combines elegance with character." Vinum

"A dense red wine with many flavours of cherry, plum, spices and eucalyptus. A broad spectrum of tannins and a juicy acidity carry the long finish, but you have to be patient until all facets come to light. Shows outstanding potential." Wine Spectator

"Wow, this is really fantastic, with outstanding depth of fruit and ripe, silky tannins. So much blueberry and cedar character with a hint of flowers. Full body, fine tannins and a fresh and clean finish. This wine has a wonderful balance." James Suckling

"This is a great wine from San Filippo. The 2012 Brunello di Montalcino le Lucére is plush and rich in all the right places. It opens to a generous bouquet with tones of dark fruit and spice that contrast beautifully. The wine moves between primary flavours (directly from the fruit) and secondary flavours (from oak ageing). The effect is well balanced and the intensity of the wine appears brighter and more harmonious. The mouthfeel is compact and firm. The wine shows good persistence on the finish." Wine Advocate

Here comes the first vintage of the new Titolo Riserva, which will be bottled exclusively in 400 numbered magnum bottles and will thus hardly appear in the trade. A highly complex red with the scent of dried flowers, blackberry and crushed rock. The tannins are excellently integrated and this wine is already not only a coveted rarity, but a new star in the firmament of southern Italian wines. SUPERIORE.DE

"From magnum. Lustrous mid ruby. Cherry-laced palate with savoury, exotic, spice notes and liquorice. Gorgeous freshness and bite and length. Wonderful vibrant stuff." Jancis Robinson

"The 2013 Aglianico del Vulture Titolo Riserva takes things to a whole new level for Elena Fucci. It opens with an intense display of crushed cherry, exotic spices and sweet herbal tones; as the bouquet evolves, it gains haunting richness and a darker fruit profile with marine-tinged minerality and notes of lavender. Its silky textures coast along a medium-bodied framework, as a polished yet dense display of blackberry and currant gives way to saturating spice and a tightly wound web of tannin. This finishes long, intense and structured, leaving the palate drenched in black fruit concentrate, yet all lifted by residual acids. A stunning example of Aglianico and Vulture terroir." Vinous

"Here's a new discovery that I'd like to broadcast far and near. This Riserva is a new wine from Elena Fucci that was initiated with this vintage. It is a limited-edition wine made only in magnums. In fact, I tasted bottle number 1 of 400 made to write this review. The 2013 Aglianico del Vulture Superiore Riserva Titolo is a dark and savory expression with an evolved and profound bouquet that covers all the bases. It offers dried fruit and blackberry with smoke, ash and crushed river stone. That mineral identity is the wine's most important defining characteristic. Aglianico tends to deliver astringent tannins, but this Riserva shows excellent integration and structural management. A new benchmark wine for southern Italy has just been created." Wine Advocate

San Leonardo is the flagship of the eponymous winery and one of the best red wines of Trentino every year. Opulent bouquet with nuances of dark fruits such as blackberry and sour cherry. Delicate spicy, leather and tobacco notes give it a terrific complexity, which is then extended on the palate by a harmonious play of dark berries, plums, the whole then flanked by clearly contoured tannin. A masterful red with a strong personality that will rise to its true greatness after a few more years of bottle ageing and live up to its reputation. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, rich ruby red. In the nose floral aromas of lavender, geranium, then fresh cassis and elderberry, in addition some liquorice, in the background fine spice of mint and sage. Opens radiantly and with a juicy core on the palate, clear fruit accompanies the course, in addition noble spice, still youthful, currently with almost hardly perceptible wide-meshedness in the finish." Falstaff

"The 2017 San Leonardo is dark, inward and intense with masses of crushed black currants, mint, sage, and balsamic spice. This pulls you close, as further depths of clove and tobacco form in the glass. It coasts along the palate with dense and polished textural fruits, mineral to the core, yet also elevated by brisk acids, while slowly drenching the senses in concentration. This leaves a web of fine tannins and a salty flourish, while tapering off with remarkable length. It's poised with savory herbs that linger long. In 2017, production was down by over 50% due to multiple hail events and a cask that was damaged during maturation." Vinous

"You could easily mistake the stunningly deep and subtle nose of this Sub–Alpine red for a high–end Medoc wine from the same vintage (which was on the restrained side). A super–elegant, mid–weight cabernet sauvignon–dominated blend with plenty of fine tannin married to blackcurrant and forest–berry fruit, plus touches of licorice, savory notes and bitter chocolate at the very long finish." James Suckling

"The Tenuta San Leonardo 2017 San Leonardo shows subtle but unmistakable generosity and exuberance that is absolutely in line with this hot vintage. In this regard, the 2017 stands apart from past vintages from this estate that is celebrated for its elegant, undertone and long–term approach. This wine is slightly more accessible too, with plush, dark fruit, balanced oak spice and perfumed rose over a polished, silky mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

Deep, dark ruby red colour. Floral nose with lots of red, warm fruit and delicate herbal notes. Smooth and elegant on the palate with wonderful depth and complexity with notes of black cherry, herbs, violets, plums and a hint of tar and leather. Saffredi literally sneaks up on you until it fades into a very long and harmonious finish with an impressive presence and finesse. One of Italy's great wines, full of elegance! SUPERIORE.DE

"Still slightly closed. Very multi-faceted on the nose, despite the hot and dry vintage with cool accents, balsamic and herbal-spicy notes, liquorice and pencil lead, certain Bordeaux allure. Quite linear on the palate with a juicy, intense attack, still very youthful fruit, healthy, polished tannin structure, finely arranged and detailed, this will be another great Saffredi." Weinwisser

"Well structured and linear, this red frames a core of black currant and black cherry fruit with accents of toasty oak, sweet spices, tobacco and iron. Refined and harmonious, with the stuffing to develop over the next decade." Wine Spectator

"The 2020 Saffredi shows a very ripe and rich interpretation of this iconic wine made by Elisabetta Geppetti and her family. The blend of fruit is the same, but 2020 actually has less oak use to allow the dark fruit to shine through. You'll find blackberries, fragrant roses, dried apricots, spices and sweet cinnamon. All in all, the wine offers immediate fruit and a vertical delivery of flavours." Wine Advocate

"A rich, juicy nose presents a handful of cherries and mulberries, along with slices of passion fruit, but a fresh spice keeps the sweetness in check. On the palate, dark chocolate adds depth to the wine, while tannins and acidity attack in tandem. Bold and confident - a precise wine." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2020 Saffredi is compelling. Deep yet quite structured, the 2020 is unlike any other Saffredi I can recall tasting because of its balance of intense dark fruit and vertical structure. Plum, blackberry, pencil shavings, lavender and spice saturate the palate." Vinous

"Grand Cru from the coast made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Multi-faceted, dynamic nose with notes of blackcurrant, undergrowth, rosemary and liquorice; full-bodied structure with perfectly structured, tightly woven tannins, balanced by plenty of freshness, also mineral salinity, long and full of esprit." Vinum

"Impressive aromas of fresh herbs from the Tuscan coast, such as sage, mint, rosemary and thyme. Also blackcurrants. Full-bodied with fine, chewy tannins that have lovely length and texture. Racy and beautiful, with plenty of subtle and refined character. There is a little more Cabernet Sauvignon in this year, which adds class to the wine. Give this wine about three or four years of bottle age." James Suckling

"Bright ruby red colour. Initially a nose of freshly baked black bread, cranberries, fine earthy notes, a hint of dark chocolate, fragrant precious wood in the aftertaste. Juicy, clear, radiant, present on the palate, with tightly woven tannins, comes back continuously juicy, great length!" Falstaff