The Wine Advocate | 95–100 Points

Madonna del Piano is a top wine from a top vintage, what more could you want? We are deeply impressed by its energetic tension and complexity, plus a harmony only imagined in the wildest dreams. Focused and racy bouquet of dark cherries, herbs, smoke and mineral hints. Very animating in the drink, the acidity plays around the primary fruit, then the polished tannins set in and glide this beautiful red into its almost endless finish. An extremely characterful and polished wine that is already one of the most beautiful of its appellation. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Madonna del Piano is totally captivating: deep, dark and viral. It smolders up from the glass, with a thrilling mix of cherries and plums complemented by notes of black tea, balsam herbs and ashen stone. With each return to the glass, this seems to expand further, adding nuances of smoke and animal musk. The 2016 is packed full of energy but also youthful tension, showing the radiance of the vintage with its citrus-tinged fruits and depths of minerality. Through it all, energizing acidity maintains harmony, just as fine tannins slowly saturate, resulting in a long finish that resonates on licorice and purple-tinged inner florals. The 2016 is one of the most balanced, yet also prettiest, expressions that I have ever witnessed from Valdicava’s Madonna del Piano." Vinous

"The Valdicava 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Madonna del Piano impresses for its intensity, its balance and its freshness. The wine is medium to full-bodied with a good amount of fruit weight and power that is offset by acidity and the lifted, vibrant quality of the bouquet. If balance is the objective, this wine meets it goals, although like with many of its peers, you certainly won't miss the deep inner power of this determined Brunello." Wine Advocate

"Expressive yet complex, this red is already revealing tertiary hints of truffle, fading roses and spice. Features cherry, raspberry, iron, eucalyptus and anise flavors allied to a firm, compact structure. Balanced and long, with fresh fruit, spice and mineral accents lingering on the endless finish." Wine Spectator

"This is heavenly on the nose with fresh flowers such as violet and cherries with undertones of freshly shaved sandalwood. It’s full-bodied with very fine tannins that are focused and intense with a polished nature. This is a complete wine that impresses at every level. Give it at least five to six years to come together and resolve the tannin structure. Better after 2027." James Suckling

Sugarille 2019 is certainly one of the greats of its vintage. A crescendo of dark berries, Amarena cherries, tar, liquorice and smoky notes on the nose. The intensity continues on the palate: Sugarille is uncompromisingly powerful, with multi-layered fruit, striking tannins and wonderful acid wire. With increasing aeration, the impressiveness and opulence give way to a wonderful finesse that will continue to refine and develop with further years of bottle ageing. A wine as wonderful as it is today - and guaranteed to be even better tomorrow! SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium to deep ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Much more closed and sleepy than the Rennina and with an undertone of oak. There is also a little more fullness. Restrained on the palate, with marvellous cherry, cranberry and raspberry fruit. Superfine, deep tannins. Polished and long, with a hint of tannin on the finish." Jancis Robinson

"To complete Angelo Gaja's comparison with his Langhe wines, he compares Sugarille with Barolo (as opposed to Rennina, which he equates with Barbaresco). This powerful wine will appeal to anyone looking for a powerful Brunello. Sweet oak spices and plums are accompanied by earthy forest tones. It is rich and fruity, but austere and firm in structure: dark cherry and plum hang on steely, vertical grape tannins. Thicker wood tannins build at the core, but crisp acidity balances the dense structure, and medicinal herbs are embedded in the layers. This wine is firming up in the glass and still needs plenty of time." Decanter

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Sugarille is dark and youthfully closed, forcing the taster to engage with its brooding blend of blackberry, sage and crushed stone. It displays textures of pure silk, polished and refined, with a dense textural wave of tart red and black fruits underscored by savoury minerals and exotic spices. Orange notes provide contrast on the finish, which is tannic and long, with a pleasant chew and angular tannins that pinch the cheeks. The 2019 is a dark Brunello stallion with plenty of muscle and flesh that will need many more years in the cellar to show its best side. But it will be worth the wait." Vinous

"An elegant version, this red exhibits cherry, graphite, earth, blood and eucalyptus aromas and flavors, turning darker and more brooding as it evolves in the mouth, with both savory and mineral elements. Yet this remains very Sangiovese, with a firm, peppery aftertaste that echoes fruit, iron and underbrush accents." Wine Spectator

"Extremely perfumed and intense with lilac, violets, violet fruit and black cherries. Full-bodied and very structured with powerful tannins that give it great length and intensity. A great wine for the cellar. Try it after 2027." James Suckling

"The Pieve Santa Restituta 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Sugarille displays a finely chiselled quality with direct and lifted fruit that gives this wine an edgy or delineated personality. This impression is reinforced by delicate mineral notes of crushed stone that give way to dark fruits, sweet plums, black cherries and earthy orris roots. The wine is elegant, but also very flavoursome and structured thanks to the natural ripeness and concentration of the fruit. Give this wine more time in the bottle." Wine Advocate

Since summer 2023, Chianti Classico producers have been allowed to include the eleven additional geographical indications (UGA = unità geografiche aggiuntive) introduced in 2021 on the labels of the top Gran Selezione category. For Chianti Classico winegrowers, it is a logical step to produce wines that reflect the area in which they were produced as authentically as possible. And customers can thus deepen their knowledge of the relationship between the wines and their region of origin - a real added value.

The grapes for Ricasoli's classic come from a south-facing plot at an ideal altitude of 250 to 450 metres above sea level. Castello di Brolio Gran Selezione is a wonderful wine with great richness and depth. It has an intense bouquet of small red berries, violets and spices. The flavour reveals precision, structure and freshness. The tannin and acidity are well-balanced and promise a long life and an interesting ageing period. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, medium ruby red colour. Opens elegantly on the nose with aromas of redcurrants, orange peel and juicy cherries. Cool fruit on the palate, very elegant, well-integrated tannins, exciting and persistent final." Falstaff

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Brolio 2021 smells of red Sangiovese fruit, white pepper, cedar wood, tobacco, incense and dried herbs. In the glass, the Riserva is bright and complex, with great energy, another good offering from the Ricasoli family. In fact, the 2021 is one of the best editions I have ever tasted." Vinous

"The Barone Ricasoli 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Gaiole Castello di Brolio, now labelled with the Gaiole sub-region on the back label, displays a beautiful bouquet densely packed with carefully ripened fruit. The aromas are characterised by hints of candied cherries intermingled with orris root, dried mint and spice. This generous Sangiovese finishes with lingering freshness." Wine Advocate

"A core of ripe cherries, plums and pomegranates permeates this lively, complex red wine. A balanced version with a firm grip on the finish that complements its fresh acidity. The long aftertaste recalls the fruit and mineral and Mediterranean shrub notes." Wine Spectator

"Ricasoli's flagship wine is a blend of grapes from vineyards in Gaiole on the most important soil types of Chianti Classico: Macigno (sandstone), Galestro and Alberese. The wine shows delicate notes of dark cherries and spiced plums, which are followed in the mouth by a wonderfully vertical structure in which the juicy fruit floats and the savoury edges vibrate with energy. The fruit has a wonderful juiciness, and the tannins are supportive but play a subordinate role. Absolute class." Decanter

"Intense and balanced, perfect standard bearer of the winery. Intense and complex nose, red mulberry, hints of cloves, a touch of laurel and rhubarb. The sip has spicy tannins, a hint of floral nuances and a finish with an officinal return." Luca Gardini

"This wine is so elegant, with a finesse and sensitivity that are so fascinating. It is delicate and almost weightless, with a beautiful and energetic balance of fruit and acidity. It is medium-bodied and extremely long. Medium chewiness. It goes on and on. Dark cherries, bark and lots of flowers on the finish." James Suckling

Ceretto's Barbaresco Asili (approx. 4,000 bottles) is the clearest and most complete of the winery's impressive Barbaresco collection. It reveals a fine sweetness of cherries and redcurrants on the nose, followed by an extremely silky and fine texture on the palate. Following on from the bright berry fruit, its bouquet reveals subtle notes of gravel and delicate, salty flavours. Overall, an accessible and highly elegant approach with great freshness, fine tannins and great ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Aromas of black cherries and dried flowers flow along the top of the glass as notes of earth, truffle and incense swirl below. Elegant but firm tannins, with the first sip showing savory flavors of black tea and herbs macerating with wild red fruits that linger for what seems like ages." Wine Enthusiast

"Extremely spicy with rose stems, orange peel and a few pieces of cedar wood. Full-bodied, very chewy tannins. Almost leathery. Becomes mineral and icy. Needs time to soften. Better after 2026." James Suckling

"The Barbaresco Asili 2020 is quite simply a textbook Asili. Fragrant and silky, with tremendous purity of fruit and class, the 2020 is so impressive. All the elements are so well balanced in a Barbaresco that impresses with its pedigree. A long, beautifully persistent finish rounds things off in style." Vinous

"The Ceretto 2020 Barbaresco Asili (a certified organic wine) shows aromas of violet fruits, especially summer plums and some blackcurrant. The wine opens in a dark garnet red colour with the advantage of the beautiful transparency that comes with Nebbiolo. The Asili seems to have a little more fruit weight and vigour in this warm vintage." Wine Advocate

"If there is one MGA that benefits from the richness of the 2020 vintage, it is the Asili, known for its lean, pure elegance. Parma violet is enveloped in watermelon fruit, leafy lightness and a base of spices among smoky woods, liquorice and roots. The lush fruit on the palate is carried by crisp acidity and dense, silky tannins, with a grippy, youthful finish, drenched in a tangy blood orange aftertaste. A very elegant Asili with volume. A great wine." Decanter

Messorio has been undisputedly one of Italy's best and rarest Merlots since the mid-1990s. Soft, rich, elegant, refined and never overdone. On the nose, ripe fruit, coffee, graphite and French oak. Structured and balanced, Messorio fascinates the international wine world every year with a clarity and length that is unparalleled. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, intense ruby with violet glints. Opens with notes of forest floor, cedar wood and pine needles, then blueberry and blackberry, inviting. Very juicy, lots of dark fruit, opens with fine-meshed, very well-placed tannin, shows good drinking flow, juicy, very long finish." Falstaff

"Bright cassis, straw and graphite on the nose - all are the more overt characters typical of Bolgheri's solar Merlot. The concentrated fruit is dense and fleshy on the palate, with an oaky, slightly chalky and austere character as well as velvety tannins and a graceful finish of cedar. Assertive yet integrated acidity balances the alcohol. Great ageing potential." Decanter

"Le Macchiole is always distinguished by its deadly balance, and the Messorio is no exception. Cherries, cranberries, wild herbs and earth on the nose continue on the palate before pepper, charred meat and a juicy spiciness emerge on the finish. Tannins that unwind with ease and a palpable spiciness keep things exciting; a pleasure in the moment, but seeing what happens next will be worth the wait." Wine Enthusiast

"Le Macchiole's great challenge on pure Merlot, obtained with a prophetic 'subtraction' work. Black raspberry, juniper and liquorice on the nose, with small touches of nutmeg, on the palate tense-dense and juicy-savoury, with a fruity and undergrowth return." Luca Gardini

"Blackberry, oyster shell, iodine and black olive. Also some caraway and thyme. Full-bodied with a very tight palate of firm tannins and fresh, mineral blue fruits. Needs time to open up and show its true potential. Try it after 2025." James Suckling

"At this stage it is strongly marked by new oak, with vanilla and toasted spices wrapped around a core of plum, black cherry, earth and cedar. Graceful and balanced, it firms up on the lingering finish. This is all about purity of fruit, finesse and length. Decant it now or let it age for 2-3 years." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Messorio combines the natural opulence of Merlot on the Tuscan coast with a finesse I have never seen here before. It has a lot of depth and resonance, but none of the heaviness that has been so en vogue for many years. Dark cherry, plum, spice, mocha and floral notes lead into a racy, exotic finish." Vinous

"The stunning Le Macchiole 2019 Messorio is a pure Merlot from a special 2.5 hectare parcel with a classic blend of Bolgheri soils with clay, silt, sandstone and limestone. The wine ferments in concrete and is aged in new barriques for 18 months. This beautiful wine exudes scents of cherries, blue flowers, iris roots, gravel and slate. Balanced oak tones add power and texture to the full-bodied finish." Wine Advocate

Barolo Ornato is a great wine every year. With its wild herbs, minerals and ferrous notes, it captures the true character of Serralunga. Its bouquet shows small berry fruits and cassis, framed by gravel, forest floor, blue flowers and candied orange peel. The wine also has a dusty, mineral note and is very intense both on the nose and on the palate. Ornato starts with finely integrated tannins and an acidity that sustains all these fruit flavours. A wine that is consistently vertical, straightforward and frontal. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, shiny ruby-garnet colour. Nose of toast, mint, then fine raspberries and rosehips, fine earthy tones, cardamom. Great entry on the palate, deep and multi-layered, savoury, comes in several waves, lingers remarkably long and juicy." Falstaff

"An inviting red that offers ripe plums, cherries, earth, eucalyptus, iron and tobacco flavours. It becomes denser and slightly viscous on the finish, with earthy and herbal elements echoing. All components are present, so be patient." Wine Spectator

"The Barolo Ornato 2019 is a big, tightly wound Serralunga Barolo that needs time to unfold. Iron, white pepper, mint, dried herbs and orange peel open up, but with great restraint. Today, the Ornato is impenetrable. Let's see what happens over time." Vinous

"The Pio Cesare 2019 Barolo Ornato comes from one of the most famous MGA vineyards in Serralunga d'Alba. The character of this wine is always characterised by structure and power, and these qualities are particularly evident in a vintage like 2019, which offers more concentrated fruit at the start. The Ornato is imbued with dark berry flavours that contrast with spicy tones, tar and smoke. It finishes with finely structured tannins." Wine Advocate

"The Ornato 2019 emphasises the special nature of this vineyard with its grace and structure, which combine to create pure class. Dark cherry flavours are nestled among wild herbs, flowers and savoury spices that grab and draw your attention with every sip. This robust and well-structured wine is built for the future, when all the parts relax into each other and show just how great this wine is." Wine Enthusiast

"This wine is beautiful with ultra-fine tannins, cherries, berries and flowers. Medium to full body. Wonderful length. Very classic in structure. Straightforward and racy. Taut on the finish. Give it four to six years in the bottle." James Suckling

"From Cascina Ornato, the first cru in the history of the estate, a sculptural Barolo with power and structure. Blackcurrant on the nose, notes of liquorice and peony. Salty on the palate, with liquorice notes on the finish." Luca Gardini

The 2016 edition of Vincenzo Abbruzzese's Brunello is a dense and full-bodied wine whose harmony and roundness reflect the outstanding vintage in a very convincing way. Rich bouquet of small dark red and black fruits, plum, crushed rose petals and hints of cinnamon. Taut and savoury on the palate, with great structure and a soft texture, the tannins nestle with the fruit and lead into a wonderfully polished, long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Valdicava 2016 Brunello di Montalcino shows a subtle bouquet that needs extra time to open. In fact, I suggest you open your bottle about four hours before serving. This Brunello takes its time, but it inches over the senses with carefully increasing intensity. Wild cherry, toasted almond and even a touch of sweet apple or orange peel distinguish the bouquet. The tannins are firm and young, but all they need is extra time to evolve. This wine is like being introduced to a stranger who takes his time to reveal his personality, but who then turns into a true friend and confidant. Patience is required." Wine Advocate

"Fleeting aromas of cherry, cedar, sanguine and leather give way to a beam of ripe cherry, berry and earth flavors in this elegant red. Firm and resonant, with a matrix of dusty tannins on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino is one of those young wines that, from the moment you put your nose to the glass, you know you’re in for a treat. A sweetly alluring and remarkably fresh bouquet of crushed cherries, strawberries and plums is further complicated by hints of clove, spiced orange peels and mint. It’s velvety-smooth and radiant with a display of dark red fruits, all tightly wound up in a web of minerals, with an air of savory herbs and inner florals that develop toward the close. Try to keep your hands off for another four or five years, and then reap the rewards for a decade or more." Vinous

"Attractive aromas of balsamic, tea, dark berry, walnut and coffee bean. Full-bodied, yet tight and very intense with ripe tannins that are fine and reserved. Racy and polished. Beautiful length to this wine. Needs at least two to three years to come. Try after 2024." James Suckling

Giacomo Neri's new top Brunello was born with the purchase of a very special vineyard. True to the winery's philosophy of making wines only from the best terroirs around Montalcino, a small 7-hectare parcel with over 45 years of vines was purchased a few years ago. This was preceded by a friendship of over 40 years with the previous owners, with whom Giacomo's father Giovanni Neri planted the vines and nurtured them over the past decades.

And the 2018 vintage is now the premiere for a wine that radiates all the outstanding qualities of the source material and the winemaker's craft. Man and nature unite here in perfect precision and harmony. Its balance is exquisite. Powerful cherry and blackberry notes are followed by crushed minerals, liquorice, smoke and lightly scented cedar. The wine spreads evenly and powerfully across the palate, and its flavour intensity can be counted on for many long minutes. Giovanni Neri Brunello is wonderfully concentrated and rich, but never too heavy or dense. 2018 is the birth of a new Italian icon that will take us on an exciting journey in the years to come - patience and further bottle ageing will be princely rewarded here, we are sure! SUPERIORE.DE

"Casanova di Neri's latest Brunello comes from a 7 ha parcel acquired in 2017. The vineyard is located in the somewhat untamed area of Sesta, in the south-east of Montalcino, and has vines that are over 50 years old. The wine is extremely multi-faceted, exuding aromas of herbs and blood oranges. Velvety layers of fleshy persimmons and ample supple tannins are countered by a citrusy acidity. There's a crisp pomegranate as well as chocolaty depths of exotic carob. Lots of drive and vibration here." Decanter

"I have waited a long time for the first release of Giovanni Neri Brunello di Montalcino, and the 2018 does not disappoint. Here I find a beguiling blend of lavender, white pepper and crushed stone giving way to dried black cherries and foreign spices. The palate is washed by a smooth wave of ripe red berries, carried by a lively acidity, while nuances of sour citrus and clove resonate. The tannins are crisp, almost chiselled, but with a primary concentration that lingers beneath hints of violet flowers, tapering off with tremendous length and structure for long and balanced ageing. The Giovanni Neri comes from 50-year-old vines from a vineyard acquired in the south-east of Montalcino. This is a fabulous first bottling." Vinous

"This red is finely woven, with cherry and blackcurrant fruits shadowed by floral, mineral and black pepper aromas and flavours. Smooth and fluid, with excellent balance and lively acidity driving the fruity aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"Sparkling ruby-garnet with brightening rim. Very clear, ripe fruit, of blackberries, dark plums and black cherries, in the background slightly of molasses. Presents itself on the palate with lots of sweet fruit, very clear, opens with fine, slightly grippy tannin, polished, juicy and long." Falstaff

"Here is an exciting and important new addition to the Casanova di Neri portfolio. The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Giovanni Neri is shapely and enriched in an extremely pleasing way. The Neri family has perfected their approach to concentration and fruit weight over the many years they have been making excellent wines. This wine gives the impression of being full-bodied, but ultimately shows a very elegant side. Ripe cherry and blackberry are offset by oak spice, toast and white stones. The tannins are supple and sweet. 5,400 bottles of this first release were made." Wine Advocate

"Beautiful ripe fruit on the nose, with cranberries, plums, sour cherries, white truffle, red tea and white pepper. The tannins are very fine, creamy and expansive. Enveloping and generous, yet fresh. Wonderful length and depth. From a 7 hectare plot with 50 year old vines. Try this wine from 2025." James Suckling

"An impeccable interpretation, the result of excellent work both in the vineyard and in the cellar. Intense aromas of sour cherries and bay leaves on the nose, with salty and iodine notes on the finish. On the palate, it opens juicy and taut, then gains breadth and depth. Spicy tannins and a hint of hiel herbs characterise the long finish." Luca Gardini

The owner and winemaker Alessandro Mori describes himself as a "naturalista". His wines ferment spontaneously with autochthonous grape varieties and age for a long time in large old oak barrels. He lets the natural temperatures of the cellar control the refinement of the wine and uses minimal sulphur throughout. In addition to all its characteristic floral scents of roses and violets, Il Marroneto's 2018 is positively spicy with a peppery, juniper note. On the palate, it is delicately woven while offering deep flavours and good length. Clean and bright, with distinct notes of rosehip and raspberry, while refined tannins sneak up with textured chalkiness. SUPERIORE.DE

"Exciting nose with hints of freshly picked cherries, blackcurrant, tobacco, cardamom as well as Mediterranean spices and flowers. In the mouth again very gripping,
very own, exciting style, completely focused on freshness and pure-toned crispness, shows itself grippy and delicate with juicy fruit and fine spice. Must mature." Weinwisser

"Bright, medium dense ruby garnet. Appealing nose with notes of cranberries, goji berries and juicy fresh cherries. Lots of crisp fruit on the attack, unfolds very smoothly, fine sweet melt, raspberry on the final." Falstaff

"Brilliant, concentrated ruby red. Refined but still somewhat closed on the nose with spicy and mineral hints. Lots of appeal on the palate with beautiful, juicy, vibrant and concentrated cherry and raspberry fruit and hints of fruitcake. Lots of firm tannins that are still a little astringent and overpower the fruit. Long and layered finish, but still a little embryonic." Jancis Robinson

"Fresh, red fruit character with cherries and red plums and hints of gunpowder, coffee beans, spices and dried orange peel. Medium to full-bodied with firm tannins and a smooth, velvety fruit core in the mid palate. Lingering mineral note on the finish. Best after 2024." James Suckling

"Il Marroneto's 2018 Brunello embodies elegance, lightness and grace without being banal or superficial. Harvested on 5 October, it has a sweet core of red berries that provides a backdrop for cinnamon stick, sarsaparilla and violet accents to unfold. The ripe tannins are fine-grained and enveloping as the wine reaches accessible depths, and the appetising acidity begs for another sip - but not before the leisurely finish unfolds with spices and raspberries. A seamless symphony that reflects Alessandro Mori's unhurried, unforced approach to winemaking. As tempting as this wine is now, a little more patience will be rewarded." Decanter

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino has a charisma that makes it an absolute delight. Sweet exotic spices meet dried black cherries, dusty flowers and a hint of cloves. It is a pure delight on the palate, showing both opulent fruit and total balance and sophistication, while the sour berries are given a bracing lift by the juicy acidity. The 2018 leaves no stone unturned, rejuvenating with rounded tannins and lingering on the palate for up to a minute with a bracing burst of citrus, nuances of sweet rose and liquorice. This wine is so beautiful already, but also has the balanced structure to age beautifully, something you don't find in many Brunellos of this vintage. What a treasure." Vinous

"The Il Marroneto 2018 Brunello di Montalcino from Alessandro Mori opens with a spicy bouquet with notes of caraway and white pepper that seamlessly transition into bright cherries, blueberries and cassis. The trick with this wine is balance, as neither side is stronger than the other. More importantly, this Brunello still has life and vibrant energy. Precisely because this bottle tastes so good now, I see little reason to wait any longer." Wine Advocate

"All the richness of Il Marroneto's raw materials in this impeccable version of Brunello. Blueberry jam on the nose, then notes of cinnamon, carob and marjoram. Juicy, spicy tannins on the palate and a fruity finish." Luca Gardini

"The nose seems like a dreamy island getaway, with passion fruit for breakfast, prickly pear cocktails by the pool, violets on the dinner table, and rosewater candy waiting on the nightstand. The palate brings candied cherries and strawberries, with continued rosiness bleeding into a citrusy, spicy finish. The acidity sparks off sophisticated tannins. This wine is poised and elegant, yet also exciting." Wine Enthusiast

Andrea Franchetti began in the 1990s to position Palazzi as an equal red alongside his flagship Tenuta di Trinoro, with the aim of producing two exceptional wines reminiscent of the left and right banks of Bordeaux.

Just three words: power, intensity and concentration. With a very manageable production of 1,660 bottles, here is a full-throttle Tuscan wine that constantly exudes generous black fruits, spices and sweet tobacco. There is also black cherry and plum, which lend the wine soft contours and sweetness. On the palate, it is firm, well-structured and delights with a mouthfulness that is unrivalled. Take a good piece of red meat, marinate it in rosemary and olive oil before putting it on the charcoal grill and then embark on this monumental adventure. SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep dark ruby violet colour with a black core. Very fine and memorable nose, showing notes of dark chocolate, cassis, rich blackberry, delicate tobacco notes in the background. Fiery and full-bodied on the palate, lots of ripe fruit, paired with dense, very well-integrated tannins, pithy final." Falstaff

"The Tenuta di Trinoro 2021 Palazzi, although this vintage is particularly dark and brooding, pushes this often tricky grape variety to its limits. The wine tastes ripe but not overly so, although the 15.5% alcohol content cannot be overlooked. On the palate, the wine is velvety and rich, with intense end notes of blackberries, crème de cassis and dark spices. Everything is well integrated, but nothing is understated." Wine Advocate

"There's great purity to this red, along with ripe plum, blackberry, chocolate, olive tapenade and toasty oak flavors. The tannins are civilized, while the refreshing acidity lends precision and focus. Showing terrific balance overall, this saturates the palate in the end, staying persistent and long. Approachable now, yet should improve." Wine Spectator

The grapes of UnoPerUno come from the cru vineyards Arborina in La Morra, Cannubi in Barolo, Pernanno in Castiglione Falletto, Sarmassa in Barolo and Cerretta in Serralunga d'Alba and are individually destemmed. As a result of this intensive manual work, only 1,300 bottles of this exceptional wine are sold in well-stocked specialist shops, and only in the best vintages. Due to the manual destemming, no green overtones of the stems get into the mash, making the tannins silkier and creamier than in the conventional process. The result is something to be savoured: UnoPerUno is of high fruit intensity, has an incredible depth and structure and is a benchmark of the appellation every year in its purity and clarity on the nose and palate. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby garnet. In the nose with stony hints, some graphite, then rich plum fruit, Amarena cherry, also hints of liquorice and mint. On the palate then very powerful and compact, opens on dark fruit, tightly meshed and polished, plus powerful tannin, dark elegance, spans a wide arc, can store for a long time." Falstaff

"The 2018 Barolo Unoperuno is terrific. Bright and beautifully perfumed, the Unoperuno impresses with finesse. Crushed flowers, sweet red berry fruit, kirsch, cinnamon, mint and dried flowers all soar out of the glass. Readers will find a Barolo of uncommon finesse and elegance. As has been the case for a few vintages now, the Unoperuno is made from a blend of vineyard sites, with all the fruit destemmed by hand. The purity of the flavors is unreal." Vinous

"Ripe, boasting plum, black cherry and coffee aromas and flavors framed by vanilla, caramel and leather accents. Lush and broad on the palate, yet with ample acidity to drive the lingering finish and keep this balanced. A more flamboyant '18." Wine Spectator

"As the wine name suggests, this Barolo is assembled a single berry at a time, "one by one." With a high price point that reflects a labor–intensive winemaking process, the Elio Altare 2018 Barolo Unoperuno shows some softness and sweetness of a hot vintage. This wine is made of a blend of fruit selected from Arborina (in La Morra), Cannubi (in Barolo), Pernanno (in Castiglione Falletto), Sarmassa (in Barolo) and Cerretta (in Serralunga d'Alba). The bouquet reveals soft cherry confit and dried raspberry with spice, leather and dark licorice. Made entirely by hand, this is a limited production of 1,300 bottles." Wine Advocate

Paleo - unmistakable Cabernet Franc and one of Bolgheri's most important wines, full of elegance and class. The name goes back quite unspectacularly to a weed that has long since been removed from the vineyards of Le Macchiole. Rich ruby red with violet reflections. On the nose, mint, white pepper, blackberry fruit and some pomegranate. Fine melting on the palate with hints of tobacco and poppy. Wonderfully structured and with a long final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Cabernet Franc in purezza, a grape variety that is perfectly suited to some sites near Bolgheri: Needs some aeration, then multi-layered aromas of cassis, undergrowth, maquis and spices; superb construction with powerful complexity, the tannin precise, finishes long and seductive. Great wine." Vinum

"Sparkling ruby-violet with a slightly lightening rim. Opens on the nose with emphatically spicy notes of white pepper, oregano and thyme, then raspberry and cassis. On the palate, lots of sweet, dark berry fruit, shows gripping, firm tannin, plus fine sweet melting, firm pressure in the final and a long finish." Falstaff

"A beam of blackcurrants paired with aromas and flavours of black olives, peppers, wild rosemary, tar and vanilla. A crisp and concentrated red wine with light tannins on the lively finish." Wine Spectator

"A full-bodied, powerful and polished red wine with aromas of dark plums, dark cherries, tobacco, bay leaves, dark chocolate, mocha and cedar. Firm, ripe tannins. Compact and muscular. Yet it remains fresh. Will soften even more. Taste after 2025." James Suckling

"In 2019, Paleo recovers its precise and stylish character and amazing concentration. This Cabernet Franc was fermented and macerated in concrete and then aged for 18 months in new French oak. Its dark purple colour shows subtle cassis wrapped in spice and milk chocolate, with assertive eucalyptus and delicious parma violet. The palate is juicy and almost savoury, velvety and with tannins infused with violets and cassis. Remarkable length with integrated toasty flavours." Decanter

"Cedar chips, wild herbs, black pepper, bergamot and undergrowth on the nose, sour cherry, mixed berries, soy sauce and liquorice sweets on the palate. Tannins that feel like a firm hand and an acidic heat bubbling underneath combine to create a showstopper." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2019 Paleo is an absolute stunner. Deep, plush and explosive, the 2019 has fabulous density and is not heavy at all. All the elements are so well balanced. Dark cherry, plum, chocolate, mocha, espresso and grilled herbs meld together in the glass. The purity and persistence of the flavours is absolutely compelling. The 2019 is really impressive. I loved it." Vinous

"Originated as a blend with Sangiovese, now proudly Cabernet Franc in purity, unique in the area, the result of very careful varietal work, nose with notes of blackcurrant, undergrowth and eucalyptus, then notes of black peppercorns. Fruity and spicy finish." Luca Gardini

"The Le Macchiole 2019 Paleo shows an extremely precise and distinct personality, perfectly suited to this classic vintage. If you love Cabernet Franc, this is your wine. The bouquet is linear and dense with wet gravel, pencil and graphite forming an elegant frame around blackberries and black plums. You can taste every little detail in this complex and powerful wine. The fruit comes from a 5.5 hectare plot that rises from 37 to 70 metres above sea level. The soils are a mixture of clay, sand, silt, stone and limestone, characteristic of this stretch of Tuscan coastline. On the second nose, the Paleo offers cardamom pods, exotic spices and fragrant rose water." Wine Advocate

The Gran Selezione from the single vineyard Bellavista is rich and dark with aromas of wild cherry, smoke, liquorice, menthol and tobacco. Extremely attractive and rich on the palate, firm tannins form the backbone of this virile, potent wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense aroma of dark forest berries, herbs and spices, pepper above all; full bodied on the palate, the tannins and acidity in perfect balance, with a promising future, and yet already convincing the finish. Great wine." Vinum

"Deep, dark ruby with a violet tint. Impressive, multi-layered nose, of beetroot, saffron, elderberries and blackberries. Smooth and clear at the beginning and the end, with lots of thick, dense tannin, salty, juicy fruit, deep in the final. Falstaff

"Aromas of black-skinned fruit, dark spice and sunbaked soil mingle with whiffs of camphor and forest floor on this enticing blend of 80% Sangiovese and 20% Malvasia Nera. The elegant, structured palate delivers black plum, ripe black cherry, star anise and crushed mint while firm, polished tannins provide support and finesse. It's well balanced, with bright acidity, while an earthy hint of game gives the finish depth." Wine Enthusiast

This is a contrast of power and refinement, with black cherry and black currant fruit encased in a sheen of oak, while burly tannins and vivid acidity enhance the structure. Awkward today, this displays incredible elegance, with a laser of vivid acidity driving the exceptional length. Sangiovese and Malvasia Nera. Best from 2023 through 2043." Wine Spectator

"The 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto Bellavista sees fruit sourced from one of Castello di Ama's most beautiful vineyards with a wide exposures and plenty of sunshine. This wine shows profound complexity and a far-reaching bouquet that evolves slowly in the glass. Of these three single-vineyard Gran Selezione wines (Bellavista, La Casuccia and San Lorenzo), the Vigneto Bellavista is the most complete, but it is also the most linear and streamlined in terms of mouthfeel. I would bet on putting this wine aside in your cellar for a longer aging time." Wine Advocate

"Ama's 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto Bellavista is a flat out stunner. Dark and brooding in its first impression, the 2016 races out of the glass with explosive vertical lift. This structured, potent Chianti Classico won't be ready to drink anytime soon, but it is immensely promising. Savory herbs, crushed rocks, chalk and dried flowers add myriad layers of dimension. The 2016 is complex, nuanced and built for cellaring." Vinous

The grapes of UnoPerUno come from the cru vineyards Arborina in La Morra, Cannubi in Barolo, Pernanno in Castiglione Falletto, Sarmassa in Barolo and Cerretta in Serralunga d'Alba and are individually destemmed. As a result of this intensive manual work, only 1,300 bottles of this exceptional wine are sold in well-stocked specialist shops, and only in the best vintages. Due to the manual destemming, no green overtones of the stems get into the mash, making the tannins silkier and creamier than in the conventional process. The result is something to be savoured: UnoPerUno is of high fruit intensity, has an incredible depth and structure and is a benchmark of the appellation every year in its purity and clarity on the nose and palate. SUPERIORE.DE

"Just medium ruby red. Deeper and more complex than the pure Barolo and a little more closed. Raspberry and the scent of cardamom. Still youthful and compact with an endless finish. Very elegant and very tannic, but beautifully precise." Jancis Robinson

"A beam of cherry highlights this supple red, along with aromas of iron and wet hay, and a hint of eucalyptus. The texture is impressive until the tannins flex their muscles. Firm yet open, with a lingering finish." Wine Spectator

"A crisp and bright Barolo with aromas and flavours of oranges, flowers and crab apples. Medium body. Very crisp and fresh. Fine and polished tannins. Already bright and delicious. But give it time to develop in the bottle. It is destemmed by hand. Better after 2025." James Suckling

"The 2019 Barolo Unoperuno is a wine of absolute class and elegance. Bright and translucent, with compelling inner sweetness, the 2019 is simply beautiful. Crushed red berry fruit, orange peel, cedar and sweet pipe tobacco are all finely brought out. The wine has fantastic energy and resilience. Give it a few years to develop." Vinous

"Silvia Altare calls her 2019 Barolo Unoperuno, made from a blend of fruit from Arborina (in La Morra), Cannubi (in Barolo) and Badarina and Ceretta (in Serralunga d'Alba), a "super mega blend from classic single vineyards". The berries are selected by hand and with the utmost care. Unoperuno actually means "one at a time" in Italian, and this gives you an idea of the demanding work required to make this wine in a very limited production (about 1,200 bottles are released annually in autumn). The result is a gently elegant wine with ripe tannins and lots of dark fruit and black cherry in the background. There are also mild mineral tones and a hint of earth or rust." Wine Advocate

"Shiny ruby red. Inviting nose, of ripe raspberries, peppermint, white pepper, balsamic, of precious wood and minimally of cold smoke, very inviting. Shows very polished on the palate, with pronounced fruit and perfectly integrated tannin, powerful, with pressure, lingers long." Falstaff

First bottled in 1967, the Masseria comes from a vineyard in Bricco di Neive and is essentially vinified and aged like a Barolo. Since the 2018 vintage, it now comes from a small parcel that used to belong to the Barbaresco winery Socré, and it is now deliberately released a year later to provide more harmony and balance.

Floral and spicy notes meld with a core of rich, generous fruit in a generous Barbaresco based on pure resonance. Masseria is vinified and aged like Vietti's single-vineyard Barolos. This means long fermentation, six months in French oak and more than two years in barrique. This, together with the top vintage of 2019 and the broad shoulders of Neive, results in a Barbaresco with clear Barolo hints. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Vietti 2019 Barbaresco Roncaglie Masseria helps to fill out this wide portfolio of wines representing the best of Piedmont. This winery was able to recently acquire new land in this cru site, now totaling two hectares of vines, thus giving considerably more fruit to this program. This Barbaresco is released one year after its peers to show additional depth and fullness, especially in this naturally concentrated vintage. Dark fruit and cherry cedes to pretty spice and tar." Wine Advocate

"Complex aromas of blackberries and black truffle with some lavender. Full-bodied with velvety tannins that spread across the palate. Rich and deep on the finish, with fantastic length and gravitas." James Suckling

"The 2019 Barbaresco Masseria Roncaglie is the best Barbaresco I have ever tasted from Vietti. Bright, translucent and full of energy, the 2019 is stunning from the first sip, and it was poured after all the Barolos in the range. Crushed flowers, sweet red berry fruit, cinnamon, mint and orange peel all grace this exquisite, stunning Barbaresco. The 2019 is pure and full of finesse. For many years, Barbaresco was the hidden gem in this range. I'm not sure how long that will last. The 2019 is outrageously beautiful. Don't miss it!" Vinous

The Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Poggio al Vento 2016, which comes onto the market seven years after the grape harvest, is a breathtaking wine. It soars to the highest heights in terms of elegance and power. These opposing forces - power and grace - are what characterise this classic vintage. Col d'Orcia has effortlessly captured and immortalised both sides of the continuum. The bouquet displays a long array of aromas, including dried cherries, liquorice, cola, lavender flowers, cured meat and black truffles. The velvety finish is smooth and lingering. A wonderful creation from the top 2016 vintage! SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful, bright ruby colour with a fine garnet sheen. Memorable nose with notes of plums, some cranberries, dark cherries, very clear. Firm, full-bodied tannins on the palate, opens with a lot of pressure, coated in ripe berry fruit, savoury and profound, subtle earthy notes on the final." Falstaff

"Brilliant, medium to deep ruby red colour with only light orange tones. Some development on the nose, but otherwise still very closed. Supple and concentrated, with fine, tangy acidity and astonishing balance. Finely chiselled tannins and supple, concentrated fruit on the finish. An elegant wine whose 15% alcohol is imperceptible." Jancis Robinson

"The organic Col d'Orcia 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Poggio al Vento is beautiful, to be honest, with a unique sense of direct power, medium-rich texture and evolved fruit. This Riserva takes us back in time to one of the most successful vintages in Montalcino's history. The bouquet is characterised by dried fruit, rose potpourri and roasted chestnut shells. The tannins are dissolved and the wine ends on a soft, silky note." Wine Advocate

"The nose is primarily spicy, with aromas of old leather, dirt and mixed spices, like a general shop in the old west with cherry and liquorice candy in bins. The palate is more fruit-driven, with notes of cherries and figs mingling with coffee and sambuca flavours to create a subtle hint of spiciness. The tannins and acidity oversee the proceedings without imposing themselves, like a good host at a party." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Poggio al Vento is a classic wine that takes its time in the glass, slowly gaining depth and nuance: dusty roses and leather give way to dried strawberries, then notes of cedar and spiced blood orange. It is elegant and refined, with polished red berry fruit and a silky texture contrasted by notes of sour orange. A core of lively acidity provides a wonderfully fresh appeal. The finish is long and colourful, but also youthfully structured. A layer of fine tannins holds on to the remnants of redcurrant and spice. Ultimately, the 2016 Poggio al Vento leaves the taster longing for another sip and regretting its incredibly youthful state. It will be many years before we can fully enjoy the depth and complexity it currently harbours, but I hope to be there when that day finally comes." Vinous

"Packed with vibrant cherry, strawberry, rose, mineral and tobacco aromas and flavors, this red is racy and pure, with a superb aftertaste. Defined by its bracing acidity and precise fruit flavors, this still has some tannins to resolve. So youthful and fresh, it feels like this has hardly budged in its evolution." Wine Spectator

"Super classic Brunello from a classic vintage that is now coming onto the market. The fragrance has it all: cherries, flowers, pencil and slight hints of graphite. This is followed by raspberries and black cherries with some sandalwood shavings. You just want to smell it. Clear and transparent. Full-bodied with very fine and incisive tannins that fill the mouth and show great tension and shape. Extremely long and structured. Beautiful now, but it will age for decades to come." James Suckling

Messorio has been undisputedly one of the best and rarest Merlots in Italy since the mid-1990s. Soft, rich, elegant, refined and never exaggerated. Ripe fruit, coffee, graphite and French oak on the nose. Structured and balanced, Messorio fascinates the international wine world every year with a clarity and length that is unrivalled. SUPERIORE.DE

"Multi-layered bouquet with concentrated elegance, mint, tar, liquorice, cocoa, blueberry, blackberry and blood orange. Very broad and deeply layered. The elegant palate continues with ethereal spice and melting, this Merlot is dense and tightly woven, enormously long and persistent, with a lot of mineral, balsamic spice and saltiness on the finish." Weinwisser

"Sparkling, rich ruby colour with a slightly brightening rim. Opens with fine spicy notes of cardamom and graphite, then lots of blackberry and mulberry. Full-bodied and rich in attack and finish, lots of dark berry fruit, tightly woven, densely woven tannins, surrounded by fine enamel, full-bodied pressure." Falstaff

"In the glass, the wine is dark garnet in colour and captivates with its aromas of cassis and leaves, which contrast with a dark, fleshy note and a loamy minerality. The dense, viscous and velvety palate is balanced by crisp acidity, slightly grainy, youthful tannins and a polished finish." Decanter

"Pure and elegant, with a core of blackberry, black cherry, violet, iron and oak spice flavours. The solid tannins provide some backbone, while the velvety texture emphasises the grace of this wine. Excellent balance and length." Wine Spectator

"Intense aromas of sandalwood, lavender, crushed stone, inkwell and blue fruit transition into a medium body, with beautiful tannins and tension that add energy and vibrancy. Excellent freshness for 2020, with blackcurrants, black olives and violets in the aftertaste." James Suckling

"The Messorio 2020 is a deep and richly structured wine that has become one of the flagships of winemaker Cinza Merli. Ripe fruit, dark cherries, oak spice and roasted aromas combine with balanced intensity to characterise this generous expression from Tuscany. The problem with Merlot, especially in a hot vintage like this one, is ripeness, or more precisely, over-ripeness. Messorio masters a difficult growth phase with flying colours." Wine Advocate

"The Messorio 2020 is fabulous. Once an opulent, full-bodied wine, the Messorio has now evolved into a much more restrained Merlot. The 2020 has a lot of energy and seems to have a great future once it has developed properly. I really admire the vibrancy of this wine. The 2020 matured for 18 months in 100% French oak, 5% of the wine was aged in amphorae." Wine Advocate

"The nose is reminiscent of a private library with old books on the shelves, dried lavender and violets on the desk and rays of sunshine and humid air from outside streaming through the curtains, held in check by a smoky warmth from the fireplace. The palate unfolds with an abundance of berries, chocolate and spice, with a salty astringency in the background. Tannins and acidity that are quiet at first, but then flare up." Wine Enthusiast

"In making a great wine, the primary goal is to emphasise, perfect and seal in a bottle all the extraordinary characteristics of the territory: from the different soils to the microclimate, from the vibrant power of the Mediterranean maquis to the fresh sea breeze." Stanislaus Turnauer (winery owner)

Actually, the single vineyard of just 1 hectare is unique, as it only comprises a small hilltop in the shape of a fan (Italian: ventaglio). The grapes from here have always represented the top of the winery's production and so it was decided to vinify them separately from the 2015 vintage onwards - and the new top wine "Ventaglio" was born.

Due to the curious location and geographical orientation of the vineyard in all directions, there are morning grapes, midday grapes and evening grapes here and they represent the respective site-specific microclimate in an impressive way. Likewise, through the subsequent joint processing, they give their differences in aromatic development, maturity and freshness as a total work of art in this exceptional wine, in which every nuance of the terroir, no matter how small, is expressed correctly and in a balanced manner.

Complex and with a noble body, balanced by an undeniable elegance, Ventaglio appears as the overall expression of Cabernet Franc, which grows particularly well in the Bolgheri area. This first site wine of the Tenuta, symbol of decades of experience in single-varietal winemaking, is vinified only in special vintages in an extremely limited number of bottles. SUPERIORE.DE

"Very ripe and luscious but kept fresh by the principal variety and, presumably, the reliable breeze off the Tyrrhenian Sea. Still quite a bit of tannin in evidence, so food is definitely needed at the moment. Good choice to go for Cabernet Franc, likely to distinguish the wine and to keep it fresh as the climate warms up – even if its perfume is much fuller and less high-toned than that of, say, a Loire Cabernet Franc." Jancis Robinson

"1.2 hectares of vines at 120 metres above sea level, this is where the grapes grow for this Cabernet Franc, which is still blended with a little Cabernet Sauvignon in the first vintage, but will appear in purezza in the future: Beguiling berry aromas, also herbal and spicy notes; extremely harmonious texture with rough edges, the final is long as an eel with fine minerality." Vinum

"This is the first vintage of Tenuta Argentiera's latest single-vineyard wine, a Cabernet from a stunning vineyard shaped like a fan ("Ventaglio" in Italian) that rises around a solitary oak tree that offers a breathtaking view of the blue sea and the umbrella trees. The 2015 Ventaglio embraces this vast panorama with a multitude of black fruit aromas and flavours. Blackberry and plum are offset by smoke, campfire ash, minerals and wet river rock. These delicate earthy tones provide a beautiful backdrop to the opulent darkness within." Wine Advocate

"There is a purity to the black cherry, blackberry and plum fruit flavors in this version, along with some notes of evolution like sweet spices and heady, woodsy underbrush. Deftly oaked, with an iron underpinning. This is balanced and long, in a word, superb." Wine Spectator

"Very dense ruby with violet glints. Opens with emphatic spicy notes of cedar and juniper, some tar and liquorice, then lots of dark berry fruit. Very powerful on the palate, opens with dense tannin in many layers, very polished on the final, lots of dark berry fruit in the finish." Falstaff

"An absolutely beautiful red wine with aromas of blackberries, mushrooms, fresh herbs and chocolate. It is full-bodied, balanced and creamy with super polished and ripe tannins and a fantastic finish of beautiful fruit. I love the precision and focus. 85% cabernet franc and 15% cabernet sauvignon. Beautiful already, but in four or five years it will be fantastic." James Suckling

The grapes for UnoPerUno come from the cru sites Arborina in La Morra, Cannubi in Barolo, Pernanno in Castiglione Falletto, Sarmassa in Barolo and Cerretta in Serralunga d'Alba and are individually destemmed. As a result of this intensive manual labour, just 1,300 bottles of this exceptional wine are sold in the well-stocked specialist shops, and only in the best vintages. Due to the manual destemming, no green overtones from the stems get into the mash, making the tannins silkier and creamier than with the conventional method. The result is something to savour: UnoPerUno has a high fruit intensity, incredible depth and structure and is a benchmark of the appellation every year in its purity and clarity on the nose and palate. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intensely bright ruby colour with a fine garnet rim. Very clear and appealing nose, inspiring with notes of raspberry and wild strawberry, some dried thyme in the background. Lots of fine-meshed tannins, coated in sweet enamel, builds up for a long time, then compact pressure on the final." Falstaff

"Cherry, plum, fruitcake and mineral flavors are wrapped in toasty oak. Balanced, expressive and inviting, with a lush texture and substantial warmth from the ripe profile. This red lingers, with a long, fresh and spice-infused aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"The Barolo Unoperuno 2020 is an assemblage from the top vineyards Cannubi, Arborina, Cerretta, Pernanno, Sarmassa and Bricco Ambrogio, all destemmed by hand. Silky and floral, with a medium-weight structure, the 2020 is initially quite open. Bright, red-coloured fruit, mint, spice, cedar, tobacco and incense unfold effortlessly in the glass. It is beautifully made and wonderfully exotic." Vinous

"The Elio Altare 2020 Barolo Unoperuno begins with floral aromas of crushed rose and lilac and then moves into rich fruit with dark currant and plum. The nose reveals toasted and baked oak spices, which also characterise the palate. It shows a softness or fullness that is rare for Nebbiolo, and the tannins are already quite silky and accessible." Wine Advocate

"This is our flagship wine, a Barolo recognised the world over, which we have always nourished and cared for with greatest respect. Nothing will change. This is why I will dedicate this special wine to my grandchildren Alessia and Stefano. From now on, it will carry their names." Luciano Sandrone on his intention to rename his world-famous Barolo Cannubi Boschis "Aleste" with the 2013 vintage. This Barolo is a masterpiece from Luciano Sandrone in every respect. Not only a historic product but also the only cru of the house from the renowned Cannubi area in Barolo. Rich ruby colour, balsamic bouquet, ripe and sweet. Great suppleness on the palate, lots of fruit, dense tannins, very persistent final with Burgundian elegance. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant ruby colour with a fine garnet shimmer. Opens with notes of plums, rose petals and pickled peach. Polished on the palate, shows layers of tannin, juicy strawberry fruit, flows calmly, very elegant and long." Falstaff

"This wine captivates with aromas of oil-infused rose petals and Maresca cherries overlaid with notes of incense that rise from the glass. The palate is intense, dark and rich, offering a mouth-filling experience of dark plums and an abundance of mixed sweet spices accompanied by dried bay leaves and black tea. The wine finishes with elegant tannins and a powerful acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"This red wine shows broad flavours of cherry, plum, tar, eucalyptus and sweet spices, with an accent of liquorice. It walks a fine line between power and elegance, with a well-integrated structure, refined tannins and a racy, resonant finish." Wine Spectator

"The Barolo Aleste 2020 is a noble, elegant wine that is easy to drink right from the start. Black cherry, plum, mocha, liquorice and dark spices resonate beautifully. Soft and juicy, with silky tannins, the 2020 Aleste is an absolute charmer." Vinous

"The 2020 Barolo Aleste is multi-layered with sweet earth and drunken cherry. It shows seamless integration and a crescendo of intensity that starts with ripe fruit and moves into oak elements, liquorice, spice and balanced acidity. This wine has a beautiful mouthfeel, with length and complexity. The Aleste is made from the fruit of Cannubi Boschis in the commune of Barolo. This is the full programme." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of cherries and hibiscus with hints of tar and dried flowers such as roses. Full-bodied and complex, with lots of juicy and rich fruit that shows the warmth of the vintage but is framed by creamy and chewy tannins that give it shape and intensity. A very serious and structured 2020." James Suckling

Rare, exceptional Merlot from the west of Tuscany: deep ruby red with violet reflections. The bouquet is multi-layered with hints of wild berries and blackberries, ripe cherries, but also liquorice and tobacco notes. Very structured and lively on the palate. The silky tannins emphasise the delicate minerality right through to the almost endless finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, bright ruby red colour. Fine black cherry on the nose, with fine yeasty tones, black bread, blackcurrants, precious wood, cold smoke. Great texture on the palate, full on the tongue, with spicy fruit and rich tannins, fiery, with some wood overhang, still very young, needs patience." Falstaff

"Exuding black currant, blackberry, plum and iron flavors, this sleek version is also powerful, with beefy tannins, yet it's the vivid acidity that drives the long, toasty oak–infused aftertaste in the end." Wine Spectator

"The Tua Rita 2021 Redigaffi is a wine with dense character and dark extraction. This 100% Merlot offers tension and extreme balance with very generous flavours of dark cherries, plums, dried blackberries, spices and tobacco. Its texture is spectacularly soft and velvety, its body is full-bodied. Redigaffi is often monolithic and monotonous when young, and it needs more time in the bottle to develop." Wine Advocate

"Wow. The flavours are really something else with red fruits, black olives, spices like cardamom and nutmeg and hints of tar and meat. It's full-bodied yet controlled and focused with fine, subtle tannins that roll across the palate and create beautiful movement. Powerful yet silky and endless. A great young Merlot and one of the best for a few years." James Suckling

The 2019 Brunello vintage from Altesino stands proudly among its peers. The bouquet has a pronounced floral character with delightful notes of pressed rose petals and dried violets. The fruit tones are elegant and harmonious, ranging from light red cherries to redcurrants. Firm and well-structured on the palate, the multi-layered fruit is accentuated by a refined fennel and liquorice note. Long and stately in the final, great! SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium, ripe red; warm nose, deep ripe notes, inviting; powerful, coffee, cassis, matching tannin, length." Merum

"Already firm and compact on the nose with a fine, complex character, as is often the case on the dark red, black berry side (cassis, dark cherries), with earthy and ethereal notes reminiscent of mint. Very present and again grippy on the palate, the ripe fruit is clasped by a fine tannin corset, the delicate acidity embraces the athletic body. This has power and fine tension. A very typical 2019." Weinwisser

"Bright, light ruby red colour. Very fragrant on the nose, of ripe currants, reminiscent of raspberries, orange juice and cold fruit tea. Shows earthy notes on the palate, ripe berry fruit and full-bodied tannins, with good pressure, warm and grippy with good length on the finish." Falstaff

"This red wine has a solid structure and shows macerated flavours of cherry, plum, earth and wild herbs, supported by a lively acidity. A hint of chocolate adorns the finish alongside dense tannins." Wine Spectator

"Altesino covers around 50 hectares in the northern and southern parts of Montalcino. The estate's Brunello is a blend of different vineyards and is one of the best wines in the appellation. While the bottling from Montosoli has a rather solemn tone, this 2019 is cheerful and bright. Strong redcurrants and cherries mingle with plums and aniseed. The lush, fruity, plush palate is mouth-filling yet agile. Sandy tannins envelop and caress it, while the citrus-like acidity lightens the whole. It's already approachable and has enough depth, concentration and backbone for a solid decade of enjoyment." Decanter

"A medium-bodied red wine with beautiful plum and berry aromas and flavours. Fine tannins and a fresh finish. Very fine and concentrated. This is all about finesse and polish." James Suckling

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino has a dark ruby red colour in the glass and opens with a beguiling mix of dusty earth, crushed rock, spicy herbs and dried roses. It is racy and supple, with vibrant ripe wild berries underscored by orange and sage, all with a lively acidity. The grippy tannins take control on the finish, but hints of bitter liquorice and dark chocolate leave the mouth wanting more." Vinous

"The Altesino 2019 Brunello di Montalcino shows a rich and flavoursome side that this wine carries very well. There is a nice amount of dark fruit that blends into the velvety texture of the wine. Blackberry and plum envelop the palate, adding elegant, full-bodied volume and fine tannins." Wine Advocate