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Every year, the San Lorenzo is the result of the best grapes from the 4 classic Ama vineyards and only a few thousand bottles are sold in specialised shops and upmarket restaurants. Full bouquet of graphite, mint and black cherry. Lots of character and structure on the palate, with all the elegance that only the best Sangiovese bring to the glass. Distinctive tannins promise fantastic ageing potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"A very seductive San Lorenzo that comes across as powerful and incredibly complex. Tobacco, cinnamon and fine leather, cherries, blackberries and dark chocolate combine to create a
cool, stimulating flavour. Full-bodied and compact on the palate, smoky, with finely polished tannins, creamy but with a firm minerality, some dark chocolate and vanilla on the finish, needs maturity." Weinwisser

"Intriguing aromas of raspberries, violets and pleasant spice; vibrant on the palate, the tannins are powerful and well integrated, the final is fruit-driven and extremely long. Always a reliable Gran Selezione from Marco Pallanti." Vinum

"Elegant, sparkling ruby colour with a thin, garnet-red rim. Delicate bouquet with earthy, smoky notes, plus fine cherry and wood spice. Pleasantly juicy on the palate, harmonious interplay of fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity, very long." Falstaff

"A fragrant blend of dusty Mediterranean vegetation ranges from tarragon and fennel to chamomile and lavender. Accents of spicy oak filter through to the palate, where a lush, cocoa-speckled plum melds with supple, velvety tannins. The acidity has a citrusy tang, and sneaky, salty minerals add an extra zest. This medium-bodied beauty is now graceful and engaging." Decanter

"The Castello di Ama 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione San Lorenzo, made from a selection of the best Sangiovese wines (with a touch of Merlot and Malvasia Nera) from different parcels, is edgy and dark with a continuous line of dark minerality and crushed rock. This dry mineral note forms a precise frame around dark fruit and oak spice. The wine has drying tannins and a long, polished finish." Wine Advocate

"A ripe style with flavours of plums, blackberries and pomegranates underpinned by iron, wild herbs and spice accents. Straightforward, despite the lush fruit, with a firm underpinning of tannins lining the long finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Ama San Lorenzo is fabulous. It offers an irresistible blend of blackberry, graphite, crushed rock, spice, lavender and black pepper, with a striking inner sweetness, superb mid-palate suppleness and balance, all in a medium-bodied style that will be approachable with minimal cellaring. San Lorenzo remains an archetype for contemporary Chianti Classico. Due to strict selection, production will be reduced by around 30% in 2020." Vinous

"Aromas of black cherries with flowers and dried orange slices. Medium-bodied with very firm tannins and a firm and racy finish. It is polished yet powerful. Give this wine at least four or five years to open up." James Suckling

Brilliant ruby red, a fully ripe berry bouquet with warm spicy, mushroom and cocoa notes on the nose. Rich and juicy on the palate with sweet oak and lush fruit. Ravera Riserva ends with a firm finish that once again reveals ripe fruit and polished tannins. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant, rich ruby garnet colour. Fragrant and inviting nose of fresh wild strawberries, violets and elderberries, with fine sweet spices on the finish. Polished on the palate with a remarkably juicy undertone, gripping tannins accompany the attack and finish, pithy finish." Falstaff

"Bright ruby red colour. Complex nose of cherry, iron and blood orange with a hint of oak. Juicy, lush fruit with grippy but fine tannins. Lots of juice and fruit, with long, subliminal tannins. Fantastic bite and juiciness on the finish." Jancis Robinson

"Very pleasant, fruity aromas of sweet wild strawberries and crushed raspberries are followed by a full-bodied palate with fine, firm tannins and plenty of fruit flavour that fades into a nutty, creamy aftertaste." James Suckling

Our insider tip for years - only 9,000 bottles are coming onto the world market this year from the 2015 vintage! What hardly anyone knows: Enrica and Ettore learned how to make wine from none other than Giancarlo Pacenti.

The grapes for this vinophile masterpiece come from a small vineyard in Castelnuovo dell'Abate. Deep, full-bodied expression with warm aromatic layers that give an impressive intensity to the bouquet of dark plum, blackberry, dried cherry, liquorice, tar, black truffle and leather. Then on the palate a beguiling extract sweetness, again very complex and resonant, in silent harmony with the characteristics of the exceptional terroir. The 36 months very slow aging in large oak barrels sort for a wonderful harmony and a very good aging potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Ample and round, sporting cherry, plum, earth and saline flavors. Well-mannered tannins are integrated, lending an overall impression of freshness. Fine length. Best from 2023 through 2040." Wine Spectator

"Deep red-ruby. Almost hypnotic aromas of ripe red cherry, black cherry-cola, incense, violet, dried rose and minerals. Structured and sweet red and darker fruit flavors are graceful and finely etched, picking up savory spice and floral elements with aeration. Perhaps a touch less multifaceted than some other Brunellos from this estate, but brimming with early appeal and enough balance to easily last another fifteen to twenty years in a good cellar." Vinous

"Here's an elegant and classic expression of the vintage. The Sesta di Sopra 2015 Brunello di Montalcino shows solid balance with its dark fruit flavors offset by tart cherry and fresh menthol. The oak tones are nicely tucked in and integrated, offering substance that builds the wine's structure but does not take away from its elegance. Balanced acidity adds a pretty touch to the mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

"Beautiful ripeness, but also balance on the nose, which features cinnamon, dried cedar, dried plums, dark chocolate and licorice. Expansive and comprehensive on the palate with outward-veering tannins and lots of treacle-tart undertones. Chewy and decadent. Drink from 2025." 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

"Bright ruby red with light garnet reflections. The nose is light and elegant with notes of cherry, raspberry and blood orange followed by elegant spice. The palate is juicy with a spicy aftertaste. Pleasant length and persistence." Falstaff

"A round red, boasting plum, cherry, mint, iron and tar flavors. The tannins are firm but meld nicely already at this young stage, leaving room for an aftertaste of fruit, savory, earth and mineral notes on the finish." Wine Spectator

"Very floral and attractive already on the nose. Bright and clean fruit on the palate with medium body, dusty and fine tannins and a chewy finish. Solid and age–able. From organically grown grapes. Very well made for the vintage. Best after 2024." James Suckling

"The organic 2018 Barolo falls in line with vintage expectations with a very smooth and silky personality that caresses the palate. Dark rose, cherry and licorice cede to a polished, mid–weight palate." Wine Advocate

The grapes for the estate's classic Barolo come from the vineyards/communes of Ornato, La Serra, Briccolina in Serralunga d'Alba, Gustava and Garretti in Grinzane Cavour, Roncaglie in La Morra, Ravera in Novello and, from the 2015 vintage, also from Mosconi in Monforte d'Alba. It is more of a traditional, classic Barolo with an exciting bouquet of deep, dark fruit and a pretty potpourri of rose petals, spices, smoke and tar. It is full-bodied and firm on the palate, opening up with plenty of dense tannins, very powerful, with pressure and a full bite on the finish, designed for a long life. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium, warm red colour; red fruity, caramel, coffee-like, leafy, deep, very inviting; round, fine, then dense, warm tannin, caramel, length, pleasing." Merum

"Even the colour is surprisingly transparent and light-coloured. The entry-level Barolo has an open, attractive bouquet with freshly picked cranberries and redcurrants, persimmon, ripe cherries, playful, shimmering, linear and multi-layered. Rather cool than opulent. Very finely woven on the palate, very elegant and almost floating, a finesse piece for elegance drinkers." Weinwisser

"Clearly fleshy-animalic aroma with red berry and fine vegetal flavours, a little dried herbs, a hint of juniper and dried floral traces. Clear, taut, almost cool, tart and juicy fruit, a little cocoa, coffee and allspice, also juniper tones, present, youthful, yet very fine tannins, some bite, persistent, elegant style, very good, juicy and finely spiced finish. A beauty." Wein-Plus

"Bright, radiant ruby red colour. Delicately spicy on the nose, some cherries and raspberries, with a hint of undergrowth, medium expression overall, yet inviting. Polished on the palate, with velvety tannins, already extremely accessible, drinks excellently, salty and radiant on the final." Falstaff

"Brilliant medium ruby red colour. Balsamic nose that slowly rises from the glass. Hints of garden herbs, brooding cherry and cranberry. Still a little tight on the nose, but more approachable on the palate with ripe, supple fruit and plenty of richness without being heavy. Lots of grainy, flavoursome tannins and a fairly firmly structured, fruit-driven finish." Jancis Robinson

"Classic bright garnet red in the glass, the wine focuses on cherry stones with tar, violets, a little camphor and sweet spices. The attack is firm and crisp, with a brilliant crispness on the palate and grainy tannins that carry through to a slightly austere finish. There's a little lack of flesh - a feature of the 2018 vintage - but this is one of the best Barolo from the village this year." Decanter

"Pio Cesare is on a wave of success, producing outstanding Barolo vintage after vintage. This wine is of tremendous intensity and beauty, with fragrant layers of pressed flowers, wild berries, vanilla and spice. It boasts a dark, powerful appearance and firm tannins supported by an excellent quality of fruit." Wine Enthusiast

"The Barolo Pio is once again impressive in 2018. Deep, multi-layered and so expressive, the 2018 offers an unusual elegance right from the start. The dark, mentholated aromas and flavours are fascinating. In 2018, the Barolo Pio also offers a certain depth that is rare in wines of this level. All elements are perfectly balanced. This is a very good vintage for the Pio." Vinous

"The 2018 Barolo opens with ripe aromas of dried plums and tobacco. This vintage lacks some of the complexity of a cooler growing season, but the results are anything but monochromatic. Those tobacco flavours recede to cedar, earth, forest floor and a hint of shaved truffle." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of spicy red cherries on a loamy base, along with savoury notes of forest floor and walnut shells. Also some orange peel. Full-bodied with very fine, firm and silky tannins and lots of long, concentrated fruit and spice flavours. Good structure for 2018, best from 2024." James Suckling

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

Here is one of the most classic Brunello of the 2018 vintage: the dose of primary fruit such as cherry and blackberry is marvellous and rich, flanked by well-dosed hints of oak, wild herbs, cinnamon and dark smoke. This Brunello maintains its high tempo from start to finish, it is generous, concentrated, firm and fleshy on the palate and leads into a multi-layered, phenomenal final. This red will unfold its full bloom over the next few years; it is undisputedly one of the greats of this vintage! SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium, warm red colour; certain ripeness and fruit, arouses curiosity; fruity, depth, sweetness, juicy, also caramel, delicately tart, long." Merum

"Bright, sparkling ruby red colour. Nose of hazelnuts, cinnamon, ripe cherries, a hint of fumé and barrel. Firm and compact on the palate, with a creamy fruit centre and fine fruit sweetness, embedded in currently still very robust tannins, still needs time." Falstaff

"The Uccelliera is produced from several parcels at different altitudes and exposures around the town of Castelnuovo dell'Abate. While the 2018 is slightly more restrained and less opulent than recent vintages, it remains true to its generous, intense style and will satisfy those looking for a savoury Brunello full of flavour. Woody notes of vanilla and charcoal dissolve into nutmeg, cinnamon and herbs. A hint of macerated fruit appears on the palate, underlined by sweet earth and tobacco. The rich tannins remain supple and enveloping, while a core of concentrated acidity keeps everything in check until a very spicy finish." Decanter

"This wine is creamy and open with delicious notes of sour cherries, plum stones, roasted nuts, mocha and sandalwood. Full-bodied, with fine-grained tannins that form a silky frame. Juicy finish." James Suckling

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino opens beautifully in the glass, gaining intensity and depth. It shows taut lines and a fleshy mouthfeel that favours plenty of layering and textural richness. This velvety quality is the enduring signature of this estate, which has achieved consistent results over the years." Wine Advocate

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is undeniably pretty and slightly exotic, exuding a multi-faceted bouquet of wild strawberries, fresh mint, balsamic herbs, cloves and a hint of sweet smoke. The Brunello di Montalcino is luxurious, silky and smooth, enveloping the palate with ripe forest fruits, while a tantalising inner sweetness and a hint of tobacco develop towards the end. Salty minerals give the wine an almost crisp finish, and although it is tannic, this in no way detracts from the graceful nature of the 2018, which is still energetic with notes of plum and liquorice. This is a spectacular Brunello of the vintage." Vinous

"Broad and dense, with flavours of plum, cherry, leather, tobacco and earth, underscored by assertive tannins that offer solid support on the lingering finish. It reveals hidden fruit, so give it some time to integrate better." Wine Spectator

"The nose showcases a spectrum of umami aromas, from soil to astringent fruit to balsamic, stone and wild herbs. The palate leans into the fruity notes, with pepper providing heat and a continued metallic quality providing structure. Tightly coiled tannins and buoyant acid accentuate haughty citrus overtones." Wine Enthusiast

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

The Vigna del Sorbo vineyard is located directly in front of the winery. The south-west facing vineyard with Galestro soils covers 8 hectares at an altitude of 450 metres. The Riserva was first produced in 1985 and has been labelled Gran Selezione since the 2010 vintage.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pure Chardonnay in the finest Burgundy style in honour of Lidia, the mother of the three Rivetti brothers. Straw yellow in colour with greenish reflections. Delicate, buttery nose of pineapple and peach, with hints of stone fruit, jasmine and nutmeg. Multi-layered, creamy and dry on the palate, the beautiful mineral vein and subtly lingering fruit accompany this elegant Chardonnay into a complex and long finish. A delicious wine monument that will gain even more tension and elegance as it matures. SUPERIORE.DE

A radiant bouquet of blackberries with a hint of leather in the background. Although it has a modern design, this wine from Montalcino is strongly attached to its homeland and gives the acidity typical of Montalcino's high altitudes the main role in its beguilingly generous taste. Attractive, smooth and wonderfully long-lasting! SUPERIORE.DE

"Nuances of red berries, violets and tobacco; compact structure with well integrated tannins, juice and perfectly integrated acidity, rich in finesse and with storage potential. It goes very well with game dishes." Vinum

"A pretty and ripe Brunello with lots of plum and cherry aromas. Full body, soft and chewy tannins and a flavorful finish. Some dustiness within the texture. Dense and enticing." James Suckling

"Youthful ruby. Deep nose of fruit with hints of oak. Ripe, rich cherry fruit with a zesty, tangy core. Real interest and great tactile finish. Still firmly tannic for the moment." Jancis Robinson

"Here's a richly concentrated expression from one of the highest sites in Montalcino. The wine shows excellent balance and suppleness. The 2012 Brunello di Montalcino Altero flaunts the best characteristics of the hot vintage including beautifully saturated color intensity, seamless aromas and good texture richness. On that last point, I feel that the mouthfeel has been positively impacted by oak tannins. Dark cherry and dried blackberry are followed by spice, tar, licorice and grilled rosemary or Mediterranean herb. The wine is youthful and tight but should obtain a more polished approach with a few more years of bottle aging." Wine Advocate

The already very well-balanced and classic 2018 vintage can gain again with Fuligni, because no Riserva was produced. Ruby red with orange reflections. On the nose, after some aeration, ripe morello cherries, violets, roses and lots of Mediterranean scrub. Powerful on the palate, the silky tannins give it elegance and the necessary balance, its complexity comes to the fore with every sip. This very authentic and strongly focused Brunello can be counted among the best of the vintage, its wonderfully balanced proportions and its juiciness will give it further impetus in the coming years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Clear, quite firm, a touch floral aroma of ripe red and also black berries with nutty aromas, a little tobacco, cigar ash, dried herbs and dried meat. Firmly woven, tart and juicy, quite noble fruit, present, fine, youthful tannin, some acid bite, peppery and ethereal herbal nuances on the palate, persistent, good depth, salt in the background, a little cocoa and coffee, complex, still undeveloped but already impressive, has tension and finesse, very good, tight finish with coffee notes and ethereal, also slightly resinous spice." Wein-Plus

"Sparkling, medium dense ruby with a broad garnet rim. Very fragrant and inviting nose, shows lots of fresh fruit, of fresh plum and cherry, fine herbal spice in the background. Compact and present in attack and course, shows itself very balanced and clear, very well integrated tannin, spreads out in long waves, nice juiciness in the drink." Falstaff

"Medium to deep ruby red with orange reflections. There is a kinship with the Rosso 2020 in the oak notes, but here it is a bit more complex and less exotic. Iron, cherry, raspberry with complex oak notes in the background. Cardamom and cumin. A good mouthful of juicy red fruits with fine but persistent tannins. Refreshing, transparent and elegant. Quite amazing balance and lovely bite." Jancis Robinson

"It takes quite a while for the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino to open in the glass. A cloud of white smoke gives way to a sweet-smelling blend of dried roses, sugared cherries and a hint of exotic spices. This is a round and supple 2018 that conveys elegance through its velvety texture, polished ripe red fruits and cascading florals of violets. The 2018 is opulent but also has the acidity to keep it balanced, as it finishes long with classically refined tannins but leaves the palate perfectly poised for another sip. Honestly, it's hard to put this glass down. No Riserva will be produced in 2018, so all the juice has been used to support this open and seductive Brunello." Vinous

"A fine Brunello with aromas and flavours of black cherries, hazelnuts and chocolate. Very perfumed. Medium body with a nice texture and delicious finish. Nice, fine tannins. Not the best structured red wine, but it will improve with age and is a wonderful treat right now." James Suckling

"The Fuligni 2018 Brunello di Montalcino stands out for its supple integration of aromas and the carefully balanced intensity achieved here, which shows verve but also remains very fine and nuanced. The bouquet is multi-layered and reminiscent of wild fruits, cassis, rock gravel, candied oranges and fresh herbs or rosemary. A floral note also emerges, reminiscent of rose or orris root. The tannins are very well integrated and silky. You hardly feel them, and yet the wine has a firm structure throughout." Wine Advocate

"An elegant, juicy red wine with pure cherry and rosehip flavours. Nice balance of fruit, acidity, tannins and texture, with accents of earth, tobacco and wild herbs adding detail. The long finish suggests great potential." Wine Spectator

"Under the direction of Maria Flora Fuligni since 1971, along with her long-time right-hand woman Dr Daniela Perino - now CEO of the winery - Fuligni is one of the denomination's most consistent performers. The 2018 does not disappoint: it embodies the elegance of the vintage. The nose is a captivating synthesis of flowers and earth, exuding pressed violets, lavender and roses with accents of truffle and tobacco. In the mouth, it unfolds with flavour rather than weight or power. Redcurrants and oranges are enhanced by piercing acidity, and the shapely, gorgeously textured tannins are chalky and appropriately cushioned, adding layers and depth. This wine, which is not beyond its capacity, will drink beautifully over the next decade." Decanter

The Fuligni winery offers an "evergreen" at its best with this version of the traditional-style Brunello. Blackcurrant and juniper on the nose, with a hint of pepper leaf on the finish. Salty and taut tannins on the palate, fruity-balsamic return on the finish." Luca Gardini

Cerretto is a fruit-driven wine of virile, explosive power that shows, among other things, how different the wines of Serralunga can be. Black cherry, plum, sage, menthol and liquorice hit the palate in a firm, tannic Barolo that will require some patience but already presents itself with remarkable freshness, purity and nuance. Cerretta is the embodiment of richness and structure of Serralunga. SUPERIORE.DE

"Just mid ruby with the beginning of orange tinges. Still quite tight and a little closed on the nose with an undertow of soft, perfumed red fruit. Youthful, elegant and juicy red fruit with a firm layer of chewy, lip-smacking tannins that add fireworks to the long finish. Super-elegant and at the same time very structured." Jancis Robinson

"Bright red fruit and a nut-cream note on the nose. Medium-bodied with very fine, firm tannins and a long, intense finish. Solid and focused." James Suckling

"The 2018 Barolo Cerretta is a potent, searing wine, its mid-weight structure notwithstanding. Scorching tannins wrap around a core of dark red/black fruit, gravel, smoke, crushed rocks, menthol, licorice and game. The 2018 is going to need a number of years to come around and for those formidable tannins to soften." Vinous

"The 2018 Barolo Cerretta offers good focus with a sharp and linear style that gives way to forest berry, wild rose, rusty nail and crushed stone. The wine is extremely direct, and that's what sets it apart. In that sense, this wine is faithful to the characteristics of Serralunga d'Alba. The soils of Cerretta see a layer of white marl on the surface and red clay further down; that's where those rusty sensations must come from." Wine Advocate

Barolo Baudana 2018 storms the glass with plenty of energy and intensity. Black cherry fruit, smoke, wild herbs, liquorice and tar form a compelling backdrop of aromas, flavours and textures as this dazzling, powerhouse Barolo opens in the glass. The intense final is accompanied by delicate rose petals, lavender and a subtle mineral-salty vein. Its stable tannin framework awaits a few more years of bottle ageing, as is typically the case with a classic Serralunga Barolo. SUPERIORE.DE

"Beautifully open-knit, minerally red-fruit nose. Notes of strawberries and raspberries. Succulent fruit palate with long chewy tannins. Closes up on the finish. Elegant constitution. Long and youthful. Promising." Jancis Robinson

"Ripe, musty fruit on the nose and palate. Medium-bodied with fine, firm tannins and good drive on the finish." James Suckling

"The Luigi Baudana 2018 Barolo Baudana is a full and generous wine, somewhat surprisingly so considering the understated personality of this vintage. That volume makes this bottle stand out in a crowd of 2018 releases. Dark cherry, plum, spice, rust and crushed flowers make for a soft and readily accessible wine." Wine Advocate

"The 2018 Barolo Baudana offers lovely creaminess and depth in the mid-weight style of the year. Sweet red cherry, blood orange, plum, pomegranate and sweet floral notes all meld together in this racy, inviting Barolo. There's lovely depth and texture throughout. The Baudana is the most forward and immediate of the Baudana Barolos." Vinous

"Rich, exuding cherry, raspberry, plum and floral notes, with iron, tobacco and tar accents lending complexity. Shows terrific balance and depth, with a tightly wound structure that bodes well for future development." Wine Spectator

"Managed since 2009 by the Vajra family, Luigi Baudana's Baudana is fermented in oak then aged in large casks for 32 months. Open-knit with a stunning intensity of pot pourri, wild strawberry, camphor in depth and sweet violet, its graceful style continues on the palate with refined silky tannins - firm and slightly dusty - refreshing acidity and a slightly warming finish. The finish is austere yet full of liquorice elegance, and the woven integration it exhibits will keep this strong for decades. A major success for a vintage of often leaner wines." Decanter

Dark ruby garnet, spicy blackberry bouquet with herbal and delicate roasted aromas, underlaid with a fine noble wood note. On the palate it is broad, deep and complex in texture, with present, well integrated tannins, well balanced and of excellent length. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2013 Friuli Colli Orientali Merlot Vigna Dominin presents a slightly shy and closed expression of this popular French grape. The cool climate of northeast Italy helps to develop color saturation and sharpness. Instead of generous cherry and opulent fruit, this wine veers toward plummy notes with black spice, tar and tobacco instead. One minor hesitation regards the alcohol: it is recorded at 15%, and you do feel it. This wine is fermented in conical oak tanks and sees four weeks of skin maceration. It is aged in barrique for two years before going into bottle for another ten months. Those long maceration times explain the slow-moving inner power you get here." Wine Advocate

"Like the Refosco, the 2013 Merlot Vigna Dominin shows what appears to be a desire to maintain more freshness in the wines. Vibrant and medium in body, the 2013 is a model of understated finesse. Even so, there is no shortage of intensity, its just that the wine is better balanced than in the past, with more freshness and redder tonalities to the fruit, and less oak influence. I would wait to drink the 2013 for at least a few years in order to allow the wine to develop more aromatic complexity. This is a lovely showing." VINOUS

The grapes for Terlan's Ikonen wine come from vineyards at an altitude of 300 to 550 metres with volcanic porphyry rock. Powerful, attractively exotic bouquet with bright gooseberries, mango and pink grapefruit, backed by a captivating mineral flavour. There is also lemongrass and herbal, ethereal notes. On the palate, it is juicy and full-bodied, but not overloaded, instead deeply spicy, smoky, with a mineral-salty structure, followed by green-herbal notes in the focussed, mineral final. Every year, Quarz is one of the best Italian Sauvignon Blancs in its full splendour. As always, Cantina Terlano shows a skilful winemaker's hand in guiding the natural flavours of the grape, but also in delivering a very elegant interpretation. SUPERIORE.DE

"The name Quarz is derived from the quartz inclusions in the porphyry. A powerful, smoky bouquet with fine Sauvignon Blanc fruit, blackcurrant, elderberry and hints of herbs and minerals. In the mouth, it is initially taut and tightly woven, but then also melting with a fine texture and marvellous accompanying mineral spice." Weinwisser

"Sparkling, light straw yellow with a greenish tinge. Finely characterised nose, opens with notes of gooseberries and fragrant elderflower, with spicy sage components in the background. Present, very well-developed fruit on the palate, extremely juicy with notes of white peach and lemon balm, very long, subtle salty notes on the final." Falstaff

"This lively, mineral white is long and graceful, with a hint of salinity that adds a delicious savoury note to the concentrated spectrum of nectarine, pink grapefruit granita, gooseberry, chive blossom and white pepper." Wine Spectator

"The Sauvignon Blanc Quarz 2022 is youthful and shy, opening with an airy bouquet of crushed stones mingling with dried flowers, a hint of petrol and nectarines. On the palate, it is a pure pleasure, soft and round, with juicy acidity and ripe citrus fruit mingling with salty, mineral notes. The 2022 finishes with excellent length and tension, leaving a hint of tart citrus notes. The 2022 is intense and made for the cellar." Vinous

"Aromas of fresh grass, lime and stone are followed by a medium body with bright acidity and a creamy texture. Intense, with plenty of length and flavour. Taut and polished." James Suckling

Great wine that can boast enormous depth and intensity. Velvety and rich, the aromas recall dried berries, roasted oak and fine chocolate, on the palate of breathtaking power and fullness, the pure tension and beauty of Refosco. SUPERIORE.DE

"As well as the forest-berry aromas, there’s a hint of herb liqueur on the nose. The depth is certainly impressive and the acidity of this grape seems nicely balanced by some gentle tannins that time has polished. Good length." James Suckling

"The 2013 Refosco Vigna Dominin is a beautiful wine. Meroi has succeeded in taming most of the rusticity out of this notoriously rustic Friulian grape. In exchange, though, the wine is a bit less varietally expressive than it has been in the past. Still, taken on its own terms, the 2013 is a gorgeous Friulian red to drink over the next decade, give or take. Stylistically, the 2013 is a bit less pushed and concentrated than other recent editions. Sweet red cherry, French oak, spice and wild flowers are nicely pushed forward in this succulent, expressive red from Friuli's Colli Oriental district." Antonio Galloni

For some years now, Le Macioche has been owned by one of Italy's largest wine families. The Cotarella clan acquired this boutique winery a few years ago, and since then the wines have experienced a real leap in quality. This is the second vintage under the full control of the family and it is a beautiful Brunello with controlled ripeness and highly precise tannins, texture and preserved freshness. It literally radiates from the glass with bright berry intensity and a smoky blend of black raspberry and plum. The palate is energetic and fresh, with hints of violets and lavender. It impressively proves that the winery is now in the best hands. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Le Macioche 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Cotarella offers tart fruit and bright cherry aromas. There is some oak spice, but more prominent are the varietal aromas of crushed stone, pencil shaving, dried rose and grilled herb. The mouthfeel shows medium length with bright acidity. Give it a few more years to soften and integrate." Wine Advocate

"Nice, earthy savoriness with dried strawberry, orange and licorice, showing some depth and complexity. Firm, but polished, with a ripe and juicy berry fruit profile and a long, savory finish." James Suckling

"This is slippery, with cherry, raspberry, peony and stony mineral flavors embedding the glycerol texture. Revealing earth and underbrush details, this feels poised to integrate and emerge from its shell in 2 to 3 years. Features fine balance, even if the finish is compact now." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino impresses with a rich blend of crushed red and black fruits complemented by hints of brown spice and mocha. It washes across the palate, energetic yet potent, drenching all that it touches with masses of mineral-intense notes of cherry and plum. A fine web of tannins embrace the senses through the finish, leaving hints of licorice and violet florals to resonate on. Le Macioche comes across as one of the most well-tailored and structured wines of the vintage. It’s a classic in the making. Nicely done." Vinous

"The brooding nose is all spices and medicinal herbs, old leather and cigar box, though dried cherries, figs and dark chocolate lurk underneath and reveal themselves more clearly on the palate, next to palate-stripping tannins that guarantee age." Wine Enthusiast

Dottore Palazzolo, the red dedicated to the founder, made of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot, opens with the scent of ripe berries, a hint of vanilla, tobacco and black tar. Extract-rich and concentrated, yet full of elegance, with fine acidity and wonderfully firm on the palate. Very promising years are ahead for this rarity. SUPERIORE.DE

"Crushed stone minerality meets floral undergrowth, dried blackberries and a hint of animal musk to create a beguiling display on the 2018 Dott. Palazzolo Rosso. This is silky and savory, with a sapidity that makes you think more of food than wine, as tart wild berries and spices give way to mounting tannins and herbal tones. Inner violets, black currants and hints of sour citrus all resonate through the finale, along with a tug of structural heft that just begs for another year or two of cellaring. Very nice." Vinous

Brilliant, elegant ruby colour with a delicately brightening rim. Dense and opulent on the nose with aromas of plum liqueur, ripe red cherry, milk chocolate, tobacco, cedar and a hint of cinnamon. Like velvet and silk on the palate, finishing with noble, sweet tannins, a fine salty vein and great length. Quite astonishing splendour and yet never fat or saturating. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling ruby colour with a slightly light rim. Expressive nose with notes of fresh plums, mulberries, blood orange and lots of cloves. Rich, dark berry fruit on the palate, opens with dense tannins in fine layers, again emphasising spicy components on the final." Falstaff

"Flavours of cola, leather, fruit salad and salted chocolate, but on the palate the soft texture and medium body are supported by a refreshing, almost crisp acidity." James Suckling

Translucent purple with a fresh, garnet red edge. The bouquet is a potpourri of dried fruits, dark chocolate and a delicate nougat note. Opened on the palate, it is fruity and velvety and with its straight lines and wonderfully integrated acidity it will be a pleasure for many years to come. SUPERIORE.DE

"Broad-shouldered, with cherry, loam and licorice notes, this red boasts well-appointed tannins and bright acidity. Complex and chewy on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"Showing elegance and grace starting with the first sip, the 2015 Barbaresco Fausoni also reveals power and integration. You get both sides of the spectrum with this wine: silk and muscle. The bouquet emits aromas of pressed blue flower, rose hip, dried red currant, spice and fine licorice. The finish is compact and long in persistence." Wine Advocate

"Deep, plum and floral nose, then a ripe and generous palate with considerable tannic power, but also very good balance. The dry, quite minerally finish is long and intense." James Suckling

"Just bottled, the 2015 Barbaresco Fausoni possesses a level of volume and intensity to a degree I have not seen in this wine before. Sweet, perfumed and super-inviting, the 2015 is going to be nearly impossible to resist in its youth. Virtually seamless in the glass, but with considerable supporting structure, the 2015 captures all the sexiness of the year. The interplay between the radiance of the vintage and the more energetic, vibrant qualities that are typical of this site is compelling. Hard candy, rose petal, orange zest, mint and spice infuse the creamy, resonant finish." Antonio Galloni

Bright garnet red with copper edge. Here comes the most opulent and friendly Barbaresco of the highly impressive squad of Sottimano's individual vineyards. Lavish scent of black fruits, orange peel, rounded off with a fine nut note. Fine-grained tannin already at an early age envelops the firm structure and reinforces the highly distinctive character - and this is only the beginning: with the years of maturity, Pajoré will have convinced even the last doubter of his monumental charisma and cast a spell over him! SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense ruby garnet with luminous core. Elegant nose of rose petals, plums and some rum pot, in the aftertaste of blackberries. Plucking and salty on the palate, balanced and harmonious from start to finish, especially in the middle very strong, ends long and fruity". Falstaff

"Tasted blind. Dark ruby with narrow bricky rim. Ripe, dark cherry that is a little ethereal but certainly complex. Full, ripe-fruit palate that is not yet as complex as the nose has it, but certainly generous and mouth-filling. Long and tactile finish with bags of grainy tannins matching the rich fruit." Jancis Robinson

"Sleek and linear, with cherry, strawberry, menthol and chalky, stony flavors fused to the muscular tannins. Finishes lean and dry, with a kernel of sweet fruit bound up in the structure. This seems to have already shut down, so forget about it for five years." Wine Spectator

"Intense aroma of cloves, but also rose and earth notes. This rather sophisticated, medium-to full-bodied Barbaresco has bold, dry tannins that are well integrated and a long, dry finish." James Suckling

"Of these various single-vintage releases by Sottimano (including Basarin, Cottá and Fausoni), the 2015 Barbaresco Pajorè is very well integrated and smooth. The tannin management shows an excellent approach, and you don't get the astringency that comes forward in the Basarin. Instead, this expression offers increased focus on the ripe, round and plump fruit of the vintage. Only 5,000 bottles (including magnums) were produced." Wine Advocate

"The 2015 Barbaresco Pajoré is the most potent and brooding of the 2015s. The heft, weight and structure of Pajoré comes through in the 2015, but the flavor profile is similar to that of the other wines. Racy, silky and generous, the 2015 is very much the product of a warm, sunny growing season. The Pajoré will need at least a few years to shed some tannin, but it is very showy, even at this early stage." Antonio Galloni

Bright garnet red with a copper-coloured rim. Fine olfactory cinema of red fruits and sea buckthorn. In addition, forest earth paired with a hint of tobacco and bitter almond. In the glass still young, initially loud tannins, with some air then softer tones and a powerful, lasting final. An elegant, aristocratic wine that leaves a lasting impression not only on the first glass. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant medium ruby red with orange reflections. Concentrated and ripe cherry with hints of cinnamon and Moroccan leather. Generous and concentrated palate with plenty of ripe acidity and very attractive grainy, long and animating tannins." Jancis Robinson

"A mix of ripe plum, black cherry, soy, eucalyptus and iron flavors plumb the depths of this dense red, which is vibrant and balanced, with ironclad tannins exerting influence on the finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Barbaresco Cottá is, as is often the case, one of the more striking wines in the range. It has that extra richness in the mid-palate that is missing from some of the wines in this vintage. The fruit profile leans towards the exotic end of the spectrum. Sweet red cherry, red plum, blood orange, mint, spice cake, kirsch and rose petals fill out the layers, adding a racy flair that is very appealing." Vinous

"The 2018 Barbaresco Cottá is bright and cheerful, with tart cherry and floral aromas that rise quickly and deliberately. The wine's focused approach is exactly what sets it apart. It offers a direct delivery of wild berry fruit, honed and brought into focus by minerals, wild rose and liquorice. With a run of 7,000 bottles, the Cottá vineyard in the village of Neive is truly special." Wine Advocate