The Wine Advocate | 95–100 Points

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 full-bodied on the palate, firm tannins form the backbone of this virile, potent wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"You smell this and you know it’s a solid Bellavista, with blackcurrants, black cherries, blackberries, blood oranges and orange blossoms on the nose. Medium- to full-bodied with a tight and focused palate that gives such precision in fruit and tannins. It needs another five year to soften and open." James Suckling

"The Castello di Ama 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto Bellavista shows dark color saturation and elegantly restrained aromas of dark cherry and blackberry. The Vigneto Bellavista is one of the Gran Cru sites in this appellation, with vines planted over the tall ridge of a sun-drenched hillside. That special positioning always gives this wine more concentration and complexity, ultimately. There is sweet fruit, ripe plum and spice, and these aromas are framed by a dark slate-like mineral note. The mouthfeel is compact and firm with a beautiful sense of lasting richness." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto Bellavista is a stunner. Dense, powerful and forbidding, in classic Bellavista style, the 2021 packs an immense punch. It is also a very potent wine. All of the Bellavista signatures are present, but they are nearly buried by the sheer intensity of the fruit. Graphite, sage, crushed rocks, lavender, mint and dried herbs all play off a core of cool, dark-toned fruit. The 2021 is a bruiser - a beautiful, vivid bruiser. I can't wait to see how it ages." Vinous

Black cherry red with a violet rim. On the nose, notes of spices such as ginger, cinnamon, dried coriander and vanilla bean, rounded off with fruit aromas of pomegranate, cherry and floral nuances such as geranium, lavender and rose. Fresh rose sugar and graphite on the palate; plus raspberry, cherry, fresh plum and cranberries. Long in the finish with a fine cassis note. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, intense ruby violet. Opens with fine spicy notes, of ivy and sandalwood, crisp sour cherry, some white pepper. On the palate polished and round, shows very well placed tannin, many layers, entwined with fine melting, fun!" Falstaff

"A blend of Syrah and Grenache, the Monteverro 2019 Tinata shows wonderful richness and concentration with a full range of spicy and opulent dark fruit aromas. This is a terrific organic wine that can be appreciated most of all thanks to its expertly applied Italian face to these high-performing Rhône varieties. There is a lot of promise in these grapes, especially along this sun-drenched stretch of coastal Tuscany. Tinata is creamy rich and opulent with sweet dark fruit, spice and baking chocolate." Wine Advocate

"Lots of dried-meat, pink-peppercorn, ink and smoky character. Medium-to full-bodied with firm, layered tannins that are intense. Lead-pencil and crushed-stone undertones. Give this three or four years to soften." James Suckling

The wine from the single vineyard of the same name is probably the most opulent of the house's selection line. The bouquet has an almost brushstroke-wide presence of ripe fruit, spices and hints of crushed rock. The palate is impressively supple, complex and full-bodied, with a whole bouquet of dark fruit flavours flanked by firm, structured tannins. The Merlot component gives it additional depth and power. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto La Casuccia 2021 is still somewhat closed on the nose, so the bouquet has not yet fully developed. I have therefore extended the drinking window. You can detect characteristic aromas of black cherry, spices and gravel. On the palate, the wine is full of flavour, richly structured and very long. The nose is still restrained, but the mouthfeel is full of vigour." Wine Advocate

"The dark blue fruit is exciting, with blackcurrants, black cherries, raspberries, dark mushrooms and pine cones both on the nose and palate. It is medium-bodied with fine and firm tannins that give it tension and structure. It is rather shy now and will need three or four years to show its true colours." James Suckling

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto La Casuccia 2021 is one of the most open and expressive wines in this range - a wine that hints at the greatness of the year. Crushed rose petals, blood orange, mint, spices, new leather and cedar wood saturate the palate. Silky tannins round off the whole. Sensual and profound, the Casuccia is both extremely enjoyable and very serious. What a wine." Vinous

Warm, very seductive aromas of black cherries, flowers, tobacco, minerals and undergrowth emerge from the bright ruby red. The interplay between the rich fruit and the classic structure is ingenious. The taste captivates with its intensity, luxurious and mysteriously dark. Love at first sight! SUPERIORE.DE

"Stands out positively; gossamer reduction, liquorice, violets, cool herbal spice, menthol and mint, blue fruit, ultra elegant already in the aroma; continues on the palate spicy and drinky, contemporary and classic at the same time, animating for all its power." Meiningers Sommelier

"The organic and biodynamic Pian dell'Orino 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Vigneti del Versante is drinking beautifully right now. Released later than its peers, this Sangiovese showcases the power, precision and elegance of the iconic 2016 vintage. Yet the wine also offers enough distance from the harvest to enable additional complexity thanks to barrel and bottle aging. A dark garnet appearance sets the stage, and the bouquet follows in lockstep with pressed cherry, dark plum, spice, balsam herb and an unexpected interjection of freshly cut red rose. The wine's aromas are delivered with generous and transparent intensity. On the palate, Vigneti del Versante is rich and dense, offering silky tannins with crunch. There is a hint of salty mineral at the very end. Exactly 7,556 bottles exist." Wine Advocate

"Crushed stone, wild herbs and tart black cherries lift up from the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Vigneti del Versante, but that’s only the beginning. With time, this blossoms further, gaining a sweeter fruit profile and autumnal spices with hints of shaved cedar. Its textures are remarkably refined and silky in feel, with an intense concentration of tart red fruits, yet energy is maintained through brilliant acidity, as grippy tannins build steadily toward the close. The Vigneti del Versante tapers off with amazing length, youthful poise and a balanced structure, promising many, many years of positive evolution. This is really something to behold. I tasted the 2016 from a freshly opened bottle and from one that had been opened for two days prior that showed no signs of decline; in fact, it blossomed further. Simply stunning." Vinous

The exceptional single-varietal Merlot L'Apparita is outstanding with its elegance, strength of character, fine tannin and acid structure and endless length. An oenological rarity of Tuscany and not only therefore an object of desire every year. On the nose, a combination of fruity and spicy impressions, excellent the fleshy taste, whose juicy, still quite concise tannin blends well with the warm body. SUPERIORE.DE

"A red of great depth, with a rich, fleshy profile and black cherry, plum, mineral and spice flavors yielding to a firm, racy structure. Shows enticing fruit wed to dense tannins, which should absorb well with time. Classy." Wine Spectator

"Dark, bright ruby red. In the nose on mint, cranberry, cedar wood, in addition elegant blackberry nuances. Shows very polished and multilayered on the palate, opens dark berry in the core with great grip, tightly woven, great length with rich pressure on the finish, can calmly store a bit more." Falstaff

"Enticing aromas of blackberries and violets with some fresh black olives. Fresh violets as well. Full-bodied and very rich and layered with velvety tannins and a long, long finish. Lingering flavours of dark chocolate on the finish. A powerful Merlot. Drink it after 2026." James Suckling

"One of the stars of Italian oenology, this iconic wine is Merlot in name but Tuscan in spirit. L'Apparita is a great wine that gives those who drink it a tremendous sense of excitement and energy. Its texture is soft and rich, yet the tannins are gentle and round. However, it also has plenty of substance and structure, with seamless layers of black fruits, cherries, sweet spices and tobacco. The wine's complexity is enhanced by elegant mineral tones and a subtle, menthol signature. Temperature control and careful pumping over of the grapes are carefully carried out, and care is taken at harvest to ensure that the berries are not overripe. Cool, chalky soils with lots of stones help to isolate the roots and maintain freshness. The secret of this wine is the magic of the location, the exposure and the geology." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 L'Apparita is incredibly powerful in this vintage. Huge, burning tannins envelop a core of dark flesh. Incense, tobacco, chocolate, mocha, lavender and spice open up, but only hesitantly. While most 2019s in the Ama range are quite inviting at this stage, the L'Apparita is a wine for the cellar. In other words, the 2019 is a dense, backward Apparita that requires patience." Vinous

Dievoles Gran Selezione Vigna Sessina is dark, deep and with wonderfully powerful cherry and blackberry flavours. Very defined and precise on the palate with an archetypal interpretation of the grape variety. Everything is in the right place here, the balance and clarity impresses with every sip. The finish has terrificlength and depth. This is Sangiovese in its purest form with infinite energy and expression. SUPERIORE.DE

"Seems a little cheesy with its "sugary" fruit and sweetness, but can please with the juicy vein and the robust tannin as well as the fine acidity and lets the wood resonate skilfully in the background." Weinwisser

"From a vineyard 420 metres above sea level: profound bouquet of red berries, lilacs and herbs; juicy on the palate, beautifully polished, supple tannins and crisp acidity, fruity and spicy finish. Successful." Vinum

"Medium ruby red with first orange-coloured reflections. A little dusty, probably from the oak, with shy, fragrant raspberry fruit underneath. With aeration, the nose becomes finer and more concentrated, with a hint of iron. The palate is elegant and delicate, with plenty of freshness." Jancis Robinson

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna Sessina 2019 comes from a one-hectare parcel with a mixture of clay and rock. Cured meat, lavender, spices, dried herbs and sweet tobacco lend the distinctive bouquet a beguiling complexity. The 2019 has a medium body, remarkable structural depth and the necessary structure to age." Vinous

"Sessina is a 5.5-hectare, south-facing vineyard on Macigno (sandstone soil), but with a limestone vein running through it. It shines in the fresh 2019 vintage - it is the best bottling of this wine that I have tasted. It has a lively aroma of mint, sage and a hint of chocolate. The dark plum core is ripe yet crisp, with tannins that are gently textured and grip in all the right places. Refined and elegant, but not without depth, it offers a tantalising interplay of warm Mediterranean balsamic notes with cooler forest tones. Delicious." Decanter

"Polished and pretty nose of dried flowers, cloves, mocha, dried cherries and chocolate orange. It is medium-bodied with firm tannins. Beautiful freshness and balance, with a long and elegant finish." James Suckling

"The organic Dievole 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna di Sessina is a true beauty, offering elegance and power in two ways in this vintage. There are plenty of black fruit flavours that delicately fade into crushed stone, spices and grilled herbs. The winery opts for fermentation in cement and rapid ageing in oak for about a year. These steps ensure intact primary aromas and the wine is characterised by energy and lively flavours." Wine Advocate

"Featuring strawberry, cherry, rose and mineral aromas and flavors, this pretty red is firmly structured, closing up on the tightly wound finish. Nonetheless, there's plenty of fruit, and this is super long on the aftertaste." Wine Spectator

Its rich bouquet exudes the sweet scent of red cherries and an elegant blend of flowers, mint, spices and liquorice. The taste is velvety and inviting, with a perfect balance of powerful fruit, integrated tannins and beautifully balanced acidity. Radiance and complexity are overwhelming. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby garnet. Very present and intense nose, smells invitingly of ripe wild raspberries, plus some leather and liquorice. Very powerful on the palate, ripe cherry and plums in the aromas, grippy, gripping tannin, pithy, but also good melting, can calmly store a little longer." Falstaff

"Aromas of French oak and roasted coffee bean lead the nose along with whiffs of pressed rose petal, eucalyptus and the barest hint of berry. The firm, full-bodied palate offers licorice, coconut, vanilla and dried cherry alongside assertive, close-grained tannins. You'll also feel the warmth of alcohol on the close." Wine Enthusiast

"Expressing balsamic aromas and flavors of soy, eucalyptus, wild thyme and tobacco, this Barolo also delivers ripe plum and cherry midpalate, with earth and tar accents rounding out the profile. Gruff tannins mark the finish, so be patient." Wine Spectator

"Gaja manages two different plots in Cerequio, from where most of the grapes for Conteisa come. Both exposures - southeast and east - mark the character of this wine. If Sperss is the Yin, Conteisa would be the Yang: It's dark fruited with black cherry and plum complemented by graceful wild herbs and mint, and a bloody, olive-like savouriness. Full-bodied and crisp, the tannins are firm, thick and dusty yet evolved." Decanter

"The Gaja 2017 Barolo Conteisa opes to an immediate sense of dimension and textural width that distinguishes this hot growing season. In this case, that additional volume and power are expertly contained and refined in this wine with fruit from the Cerequio vineyard of Barolo. This wine excels most noticeably in terms of mouthfeel. The finish is silky and long and those more astringent 2017 tannins are gracefully absent here." Wine Advocate

"The 2017 Barolo Conteisa is rich, ample and inviting. Sweet pipe tobacco, cedar and dried flowers lend captivating aromatic presence to the Gaja family's La Morra Barolo. Even so, the 2017 is quite closed today, which is rather unusual for a wine that is typically far more open in the early going. That's probably a good sign for the future, though. Time in the glass brings out the classic Conteisa red-toned fruit profile. More than anything else, I am so impressed with how the 2017 gets better and better with air. This is a terrific showing." Vinous

"Fabulous aromas of ripe strawberry and raspberry with hazelnut and citrus follow through to a medium to full body with ultra-fine tannins and a racy and refined finish. It’s so fresh for the vintage and goes on for minutes. A classy and great wine. Better after 2025." James Suckling

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 full-bodied on the palate, firm tannins form the backbone of this virile, potent wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, elegant ruby red colour. Spicy nose, leather, pepper, rich cherry fruit, roasted malt, dark chocolate. Full-bodied on the palate, with tightly woven tannins and a stony feel, presses hard on the palate, comes in many layers, still very young at the moment, needs time." Falstaff

"Dark nuances of blackberries, blueberries, violets and iron permeate this intense yet fluid red with a hint of dark chocolate. Despite its fine concentration and beautiful balance, this wine is elegant, with excellent length and lingering notes of fruit and spice." Wine Spectator

"An attractive bouquet with notes of dried strawberries, plum skin, crushed walnuts and liquorice. Full-bodied, compact and structured with velvety tannins and a chocolaty mouthfeel. Very concentrated and balanced. Long, even finish. Better after 2025." James Suckling

"The 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto Bellavista shows a particularly dark and rich character in this vintage, with black cherry, savoury barbecue spice and smoked tobacco. Of the three Gran Selezione editions, Vigneto Bellavista has the darkest and richest character. This full-bodied red wine shows etched tannins and many rich layers of fruit." Wine Advocate

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto Bellavista 2020 is outrageously beautiful. Graphite, crushed rock, lavender, menthol and juniper berries rush from the glass. A dash of Malvasia Nera gives it a strikingly spicy, earthy intensity. Black fruits, gravel, incense and cloves develop over time, framed by powerful Bellavista tannins that need time to soften." Vinous

"A tempting procession of coffee, incense, sweet herbs, moist earth and truffle emerges with each swirl. The palate is a thrilling and energetic tug-of-war with dark, lush fruit set against chiselled tannins. A gravelly texture adds to the drama and intense violet pierces the finish. Generous yet still tight." Decanter

The wine from the single vineyard of the same name is probably the most opulent of the house's selection line. The bouquet has an almost brushstroke-wide presence of ripe fruit, spices and hints of crushed rock. The palate is impressively supple, complex and full-bodied, with a whole bouquet of dark fruit flavours flanked by firm, structured tannins. The Merlot component gives it additional depth and power. SUPERIORE.DE

"The wine is dark and concentrated in this vintage with beautiful tones of ripe blackberry, baked plum, sweet earth and black rose. It has all the classic flavours of the grape variety, only in this case they are delivered with more power and vigour thanks to the warm and sunny growing season. This vintage remains somewhat more accessible overall." Wine Advocate

"Dark, noble ruby red with a subtly brightening rim. Nose of black bread crust, butter biscuits, delicate vanilla, then rich dark berry fruit, precious wood. Powerful on the palate, very juicy, appears cool and fruity, with tightly woven tannins, deep, long, juicy and fresh on the final." Falstaff

"Flavours of plum, blackberry and earth show hints of caramel in this soft, muscular red wine framed by toasted oak. It feels fluid and open until the dense, powerful tannins make their presence felt on the finish. Persistent and fresh, with a long aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"Ripe blue plum and blackberry are embedded with smoke and toasty oak. While this is rounder than Bellavista there is no lack of structure: the dense fruit core is well padded with fleshy, broad tannins flexing assertive muscle. Bay leaf and tobacco impart a savoury edge, pushed by underlying stony minerals." Decanter

"It is beautiful and decadent with notes of ripe red and dark berries with sweet spices, bark and a hint of dried leaves. Full-bodied and dense with finely polished and compact tannins that run the length of the wine. Long and firm with a granite-like presence on the finish." James Suckling

"The 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto La Casuccia is normally a sensual wine, but it's a powerhouse. That's probably a good thing for its long-term aging prospects, but harvestwill have to be patient. Intense spicy and mineral notes give the 2020 enormous complexity. Even in this warm year, the 2020 is not opulent, but it is packed with tremendous intensity and pure power. The reddish fruit of the Sangiovese will emerge with time, but the 2020 will require a certain amount of patience." Vinous

"The dynamic vintage produced rich and structured wines, with each of the grape varieties expressing their particular qualities. We got a classic Ornellaia, combining sunny ripeness with elegance in a wine defined by harmony and proportion."Axel Heinz, Gutsdirektor

"As usual, the intense ruby red Ornellaia 2020 reveals notes of ripe berry fruits and light hints of vanilla and sweet tobacco on the nose. The wine has a velvety soft texture and a pleasant, enveloping mouthfeel that invites a second sip. Its dense yet elegant tannin structure carries the tasty, beautifully persistent final." Olga Fusari, Oenologist

Pure bouquet of red fruits, mocha, spices, cassis, blood orange and tobacco, very finesse for its youth. In the background, very restrained maquis, white smoke and traces of liquorice. Clear and firm on the palate, only gradually revealing a terrific structure and its perfect proportions, fanning out fruit, tannins and a harmonious acidity. One should not make the mistake of opening it too early, it will gain in elegance and depth with the years. SUPERIORE.DE

"This Ornellaia impresses already in the fragrance with a rather puristic, "luscious" bouquet - again more in the elegant Bordeaux style instead of with "Californian" airs and graces as in the past. At the same time, it remains true to its extremely spicy, ethereal, thoroughly Mediterranean vein, i.e. a typical Ornellaia of the more modern years. The clear fruit varies from red to blueberry, underpinned by a wonderful smoky-tobacco graphite note, with hints of cinnamon and sandalwood behind it. Elegant palate with linear orientation, good depth, rather elegant than concentrated, lots of tobacco spice, still very delicate BSA notes, calm and precise, tightly woven, extremely finely contoured final with firm tannic grip. Impressive finish, totally going for elegance. Bravo!" Weinwisser

"Deep, brilliant crimson. Very lush nose followed by a hedonistic palate that finishes particularly fresh. Ripe but not too ripe fruit - a drier (much less sweet) vintage than usual that should age well. Unusually, there is a residual tannin on the finish. It is certainly possible to drink it now if aerated before serving, but ideally I would keep it for a while. Spicy persistence." Jancis Robinson

"The winery's director, Axel Heinz, described the 2020 as "a classic Ornellaia" and chose the theme "La Proporzione" (proportion) to describe its character. Indeed, the blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot marks a return to a more typical blend after the pendulum swung to 62% Cabernet Sauvignon in 2019 and 51% Merlot in 2018. Fine-grained and beautifully structured, its finely integrated tannins support a concentration of black fruits brightened by red berries. Aromas of black cherry, liquorice, dark chocolate, cedar and damp earth make for a fragrant wine, accompanied by menthol and balsamic notes that permeate the wine and give it plenty of freshness. The finish reveals a stony and salty element, along with chocolaty and woody hints. It is dense and tasty, its ripe fruit combined with freshness and structure cleverly telling the story of this vintage, which ripens earlier. In the mouth it lacks complexity - time will tell - but the variety of flavours gives a hint of what is to come." Decanter

"Inviting aromas of blackberries, blackcurrants, anise, cedar, vanilla and tobacco draw you into this red wine that is smooth and open on the palate. This wine is so well balanced that it is immediately accessible, but also has a little reserve. On the finish, the fruit flavours come to the fore, along with mineral and spicy notes, while the lasting impression is a salty, fiery element." Wine Spectator

"The Ornellaia 2020 is a beautiful, elegant wine. Seamless and wonderfully deep on the palate, the 2020 is super refined from the start. For all its depth, the 2020 retains a great freshness and cut to play off its soft, juicy fruit. Overall, the 2020 seems to be a relatively accessible Ornellaia that drinks well with minimal cellaring. I particularly admire the precision and understated finesse of this wine." Vinous

"An all-encompassing wine that evolves over time, always surprising. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot in a (masterful) blend, blackcurrant jam, eucalyptus, juniper, spicy mouthfeel, mentholated finish, very long." Luca Gardini

"La Proporzione - the proportion - is the honorary title Ornellaia gives to this vintage and perfectly proportioned is also this blend of Merlot with Cabernet (Sauvignon and Franc) and Petit Verdot: Intriguing aromas of stone fruit, spiced up with a delicate odeur of fresh flowers and macchia, also discreet wood; superb construction with a lot of pressure and fullness, the tannin thereby precise and still very young, ends long." Vinum

"This is a beauty, so generous and opulent with completely seamless transitions. The wine's traditional blend is mainly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with tiny amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, although this warm vintage comes with a pinch less Cabernet Sauvignon. Fruit is selected from 107 hectares of Ornellaia vines, with the winery recently acquiring a further eight hectares next to Guado al Tasso in Castagneto Carducci, with terraces and vines aged between 15 and 28 years. This broad and generous expression has a wonderful quality of fruit and oak that speaks to the best of Italian winemaking." Wine Advocate

"Seductive aromas of pencil and currants with gravel and iodine. Full bodied with bound tannins that are firm and concentrated. Very fresh and energetic with wonderful length and intensity for this vintage. Needs four or five years to develop. Better in 2028 and later." James Suckling

The exceptional single-varietal Merlot L'Apparita is outstanding with its elegance, strength of character, fine tannin and acid structure and endless length. An oenological rarity of Tuscany and not only therefore an object of desire every year. On the nose, a combination of fruity and spicy impressions, excellent the fleshy taste, whose juicy, still quite concise tannin blends well with the warm body. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2020 L'Apparita opens to a midnight black color and an impenetrable appearance. This Merlot set the benchmark for the grape in Tuscany and continues to do so today, despite the various challenges to an early-ripening variety facing climate change. The 2020 vintage remains rich and opulent, even heavy on the mid-palate, with lots of thick fruit layering and soft tannins. It ends with sweet fruit and barbecue spice." Wine Advocate

"A viscous, salted licorice–tinged red, with plum, earth and spice flavors. Reveals a solid grip of tannins lining the finish, leaving a compact feeling today. Concentrated, powerful and complex, just needs time to come together." Wine Spectator

"Beautiful focus with sage and rosemary to the plum and chocolate character. Some green olives, too. Medium-bodied with ultra-fine tannins that caress the palate. Just hints of vanilla and dried flowers to the fruit. Pretty texture and length to the wine at the end." James Suckling

"Dark, sparkling ruby red. Inviting nose, of fresh blackberries, precious wood, light honey, in addition fine stony tones, fragrant, in the finish delicate of dried flower petals and fine spice. On the palate with radiant fruit and juicy dress, elegant, polished, very well balanced, has high drinking flow despite its complexity, great salty notes in the finish." Falstaff

"The 2020 L'Apparita will soon take its place among the great Apparitas. Unctuous and layered in the glass, the 2020 possesses exceptional balance and tons of character right out of the gate. Exotic scents of blackberry jam, chocolate, new leather, licorice and smoke are so alluring. Imposing tannins need time to soften, but once that happens readers will be treated to a spectacular Apparita that captures all the best the vintage had to offer. Marco Pallanti waited until mid-September (late for the year) to bring in this fruit. That decision paid off handsomely." Vinous

This great wine is only released for sale nine years after the harvest: The slow drying of the fully ripe grapes gives this cru its immense strength and density as well as its extraordinary character with powerful ripeness, fruit fullness, beautiful concentration and great elegance. On the palate, Bertani's Amarone demonstrates freshness, noble lightness and great dynamism. An exciting wine and for decades probably the most classic Amarone - the archetype, so to speak - of the entire appellation. SUPERIORE.DE

"Complex bouquet characterised by red and blue fruits, wild cherry, also wonderfully floral with violets and rose petals. Grippy and elegant on the palate with a terrificattack thanks to the virile freshness and energy, incredibly mineral and gripping in the mid-palate. A great arc of tension." Weinwisser

"Brilliant ruby colour, sparkling, slightly brightening rim. Very clear and precise, flavours of finely ripened cherry and plum, fine spice. Firm, very fine-meshed tannins, has very good tension, juicy." Falstaff

"The 2013 Amarone della Valpolicella initially shows a generous and exuberant style with all kinds of black fruits, tar, spices and a hint of saltiness. But this vintage is also characterised by a particular strength and power, expressed in firm tannins and a solid structural backbone that is best displayed in cooler vintages like this one. The 2013 offers linear power and determination and will certainly stand up to long bottle ageing." Wine Advocate

"This classic Amarone exudes a robust essence of dark fruit and earthy undertones reminiscent of a rich oak forest and worn leather. On the palate, it reveals a captivating story of ripe cherries, plums and a hint of spice, culminating in a velvety finish that lingers like a timeless song." Wine Enthusiast

"A great, dense core of mixed dried berries, along with notes of caramel and a mix of mild Indian spices, from coriander to mace. Full-bodied with a liqueur-like pearl of fruit running through the long, long finish with ample but well-integrated tannins. Excellent and so fresh." James Suckling

"Tenuta Novare, a blend of Corvina Veronese and Rondinella, matured for 7 years in large Slavonian barrels, followed by a year in the bottle, an example of classicism and moderation. Blackberry plum on the nose, a hint of liquorice powder, then eucalyptus. Salty minerality with a balsamic finish." Luca Gardini

A Riserva is produced in the winery only in the best years, and the result is just over 3,000 bottles of the finest Sangiovese, which presents itself in the 2015 edition undisputedly in the first league of Montalcino. Medium light red, wonderfully balanced aromas and an almost seamless transition from nose to palate. Notes of wild berries, spices and forest floor come together like a team to create a rich, deep and highly balanced growth, which is already on the podium after the first sip. Texture, structure and tannins are not to be surpassed in harmony and leave an impression in the long reverberation, dan one does not forget again. 2015 was a very harmonious and rich year, this Brunello captures the character of the vintage impressively precisely. Chapeau! SUPERIORE.DE

"A full-bodied, structured red with smoke, tar and grilled mushrooms on the nose. Some bitter berries to go with the earthy mushrooms. Chewy tannins and a long, savory finish. Lots of citrus." James Suckling

"The Gianni Brunelli Le Chiuse di Sotto 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is another beauty from this bijoux estate. This wine offers texture and depth, but it does not have the same level of luminosity or brightness that we got in the 2016 Brunello. It shows some charred aromas with spice and ripe fruit, with wide and large ambition. I got a touch of Graham cracker and brown sugar, followed by spice and ripe fruit. This is a long and generous wine, with soft fruit and texture on the long finish." Wine Advocate

"The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino from Gianni Brunelli didn’t leave much room for improvement; yet somehow the Riserva manages to take things to a whole new level. The bouquet alone is absolutely stunning, as you could sit with this glass for an hour and never grow tired of taking in its mix of sweet wild herbs, dusty florals and bright cherry fruit. Sage, lavender, spiced orange and flowery undergrowth complete this already-dazzling expression. It’s deep and silky, verging on fleshy but not quite, as a tactile mix of acids, minerals and fine tannin settle in. That said, while the 2015 Riserva is classically structured and dry, it prioritizes purity of fruit above all else, seeming to hover upon the senses and never grow tiring. Fans of Gianni Brunelli will be very happy to have a few of these resting in the cellar. The Riserva is typically made from a higher percentage of fruit from the Olmo vineyard at Podernovone in the south balanced out by a parcel from Le Chiuse in the north, which adds freshness." Vinous

Cepparello is one of the great single-varietal Sangiovese classics from central Tuscany. Radiant ruby red. Clean, flawless aroma of red fruits, enlivened by fine pepper accents and delicate mineral nuances. Elegance radiates from the relaxed onset, enveloping palate that delivers a perfectly measured acid framework to a well-integrated tannin to finish long and finesse-rich. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, strong ruby with a light garnet shimmer. The nose is very compact, with dark cherries, lots of blackberries and fine spicy notes. Radiant on the palate, shows lots of ripe red berry fruit, grippy, dense tannin coated with beautiful melting, firm and compact, long final." Falstaff

"Lots of liquorice and fennel seeds with black cherry and a hint of tomato paste. Medium body, round texture and savoury flavours. Nice and fresh on the finish, with subtle flavours." James Suckling

"Fragrant potpourri and medicinal aromas recall the 2006, while the structured palate shows pure, ripe cherry with some damp earth and even an umami hint of mushroom, infused with bright acidity. Vibrant and complex, it's still in its youthful phase but will be great once it's had time to develop." Decanter

"The 2019 Cepparello is very impressive, even though it has just been bottled. Generous and creamy, with its classic medium-bodied structure, the 2019 has so much to offer. Silky tannins wrap around a core of red and purple berry fruit. New leather, spice and a touch of oak meld together effortlessly in the glass. I can't wait to taste it in another 6-12 months or so. The 2019 is shaping up to be an absolute top wine." Vinous

"One of the iconic wines of Tuscany, Isole e Olena 2019 Cepparello is a pure Sangiovese made by the loving hands of a winemaking legend, the great Paolo De Marchi. Indeed, this wine opens a discussion about the future of this famous IGT Toscana, a wine that followed an austere vision and style under De Marchi. It is elegant and rich with delicate aromas of black and purple fruits. It is fermented in oak barrels and aged for 20 months in French barriques, one third of which is in new oak." Wine Advocate

Once upon a time, there was a vineyard that was particularly spoilt by the Montalcino sun; it still bears the name Vigna Loreto to this day. Only in the best vintages does a Brunello come from this exposed site that is bursting with richness, complexity and assertiveness. It possesses a textural depth and balance that is captivating. Fruit, spice and very unique nuances such as savoury herbs, liquorice, tobacco and a firm tannin make this impressive wine monument linger on the palate and in the memory for a long time. With every sip, it opens up further layers and you might almost sink into it, such is the shift in the boundaries of what is comparable. The 2019 Vigna Loreto is not only extremely elegant, but also profound and almost outrageously juicy. SUPERIORE.DE

"Opulent nose with woody spice, backed by ripe red and blue fruits (redcurrants, wild berries) with ethereal herbal aromas, also floral notes such as lavender. Rich palate with intense fruit, ripe and taut, framed by grippy, polished tannins and supporting freshness." Weinwisser

"Sparkling ruby-garnet colour with a brightening rim. Opens with notes of smoke and tobacco, then lots of pomegranate and plum, light mineral components. Present tannin on the palate, which is very well integrated over the course, firm pressure, lots of juicy fruit." Falstaff

"Overlooking the River Orcia, the south-east-facing Loreto vineyard rises 400 metres above sea level. Tasted alongside the estate's Brunello, it definitely shows a greater stage presence. Intense plum and cherry flavours intertwine with exotic spices, chinotto and sweet herbs. The inner flavours of the vintage are in the foreground and emphasise the compact fruit. The gravelly tannins support the whole, but are more elegant than powerful. The wine finishes with a hint of liquorice." Decanter

"Blackberries, menthol, sage, stone dust and cloves characterise the youthful, restrained 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Loreto. It flows lightly across the palate, silky with depths of ripe raspberries and sour cherries, while fine-grained tannins saturate the finish. The finish is savoury and long, structured yet lively and stimulates the imagination with its future potential. Hints of cocoa, lavender and topical leaf linger and seem to last well over a minute. I am impressed." Vinous

"This wine shows cracked white pepper and wet slate, giving you a clear sense of place. The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Loreto is precise and well-defined, but as the wine opens up, you get interludes of ripe fruit, blackcurrant and oak spice. The wine is multi-faceted with many layers and angles. The palate is bright cherry with good length that leads into fine, chalky tannins. This wine offers an authentic flavour of Montalcino." Wine Advocate

"A soil with tufa prevalence that gives this Brunello great tension. Red mulberry, notes of lemon thyme and peony. Salty tannins on the palate finish with thyme and floral notes." Luca Gardini

Rich, deep dark ruby red colour. The bouquet opens with dark cherries, blue flowers and earth. The tannins are taut, almost crisp, and the wine offers a deep pedigree and persistence that is carried by the distinct acidity. This depth is what stands out the most. Since 2016, a small part of the wine has been aged in clay amphorae, which has resulted in an even more elegant and refined Flaccianello. As always, it deserves a top place among the pure Sangiovese from central Tuscany and connoisseurs are giving it time to develop further. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red in colour. Opens the nose with rich earthy tones of ripe plum and ripe Amarena cherry, slightly reminiscent of rum pot, with a walnut and mint finish. In the mouth with balsamic-earthy tones, shows a lot of tannin and grip, then great juiciness in the back, still needs to come together, put it away and forget about it for a few years." Falstaff

"Classic Supertuscan from the Conca d'Oro of Panzano: Enchanting with notes of stone fruit, undergrowth and leather; the entry is dense and yet with finesse, the tannins powdery, the acidity invigorating, also mineral-salty in the further development, in the aftertaste multi-faceted and noble." Vinum

"The Flaccianello della Pieve 2020 is a blend from the Fontodi vineyards, especially from the three main vineyards planted on sites with very dense and heavy rock. Dark, supple and inviting, the 2020 is so expressive today. Black cherry, plum, spice, lavender, liquorice and mocha merge seamlessly in the glass. The 2020 is a fine Flaccianello with a bright future. The majority of this assemblage comes from three parcels on the upper slopes near the town centre." Vinous

"This pure red is sophisticated, complex and balanced, permeated with black cherry, blackberry, violet, mineral and spice aromas and flavors, with tannins that are present yet refined and well-integrated. The fruit persists from beginning to end, defining the finish." Wine Spectator

"The Flaccianello della Pieve 2020 is the complete package. This becomes clear when you taste all the other wines in the Fontodi portfolio and finish with this bottle. This organic Sangiovese shows a beautiful intensity and remains balanced throughout with dark fruits, gravel, spices and wild roses. It picks up on the themes of elegance, depth and maturity that run throughout the vintage. The wine gently envelops the palate with considerable fruit richness and sweet tannins. This expression of a warm vintage can be cellared or savoured straight away." Wine Advocate

"Very floral with sage and liquorice in the berry and dark cherry aromas, leading to a medium body with fine and silky tannins that run the length of the wine. Very crisp for a Flaccianello. Lively on the palate." James Suckling

A few years ago, Pio Boffa, who has sadly since passed away, bought himself a "small" present for his 60th birthday. Not a new set of golf clubs, a picture to hang in the hall, a holiday for him and his family. No. Just a vineyard called Mosconi in Monforte d'Alba, a region of Piedmont where four generations of the Pio Cesare dynasty were never able to gain a foothold. Originally, the grapes from the 10-hectare vineyard were intended to enhance the quality of his classic Barolo, but after the first barrel samples, Pio Boffa realised unmistakably that this would be at least an equal - albeit stylistically different - counterpart to the hitherto undisputed flagship Ornato.

Mosconi is more light-footed than Ornato, the nose is dominated by red rather than black fruit, with an irresistible liquorice and a juiciness that will immediately put it at the top of the entire appellation. On the palate, it has a precision that is unrivalled; it is less powerful than Ornato, but more elegant and subtle. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, shiny ruby-garnet colour. Mysterious nose, initially of cold black tea, then delicate earthy notes, then mint, cinchona bark, then delicate wild berry and raspberry fruit in the second area. Shows a lot of tannin and pressure on the palate, builds up like a pyramid, noble earthy tones on the finish, lingers for a very long time." Falstaff

"Mid-to-deep ruby with orange tinges. Less exalted that the Parusso version but with the same perfumed undertow and with savoury, minerally and oaky hints. Totally seductive palate of succulent, round fruit spiked with gripping tannins." Jancis Robinson

"This red wine with its cherry and raspberry fruit is ripe and lively, with a solid basic structure. It gains depth with notes of iron, liquorice and tar, while a salty note emerges on the long, intense finish. Ripe, with a sense of restraint - a fascinating combination. Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Barolo Mosconi is a great wine from this vineyard. Rich and explosive, the 2019 offers plenty of Mosconi intensity along with the more classic sense of structure that is now a signature of the house. Dark red fruits, sage, blood orange, tobacco and cedar all come through beautifully in this dramatic, full-bodied Barolo." Vinous

"The Pio Cesare 2019 Barolo Mosconi offers the structure and length of a Nebbiolo from Monforte d'Alba. You also get a salty mineral tone or rusty iron framing a core of wild berries and blackcurrants. The Mosconi always strikes me as very straightforward and direct, and this particular sharpness is what I like most about this vintage." Wine Advocate

"Macerated raspberries combine with wild roses and crushed chalk in this evocative wine that captivates from the first sniff. Mixed cherries emerge on the palate, dusted with aniseed, liquorice and savoury herbs, with superfine tannins leading to a long finish that I wish would never end." Wine Enthusiast

"Cru Mosconi, the house's latest acquisition, a perfect snapshot of the Monforte terroir. Dogwood on the nose, with notes of pink grapefruit and clove, in the mouth with iodised tannins, crisp and exciting, beautiful finish." Luca Gardini

"The flavours of blue fruits such as raspberries and blueberries are very pronounced. Liquorice. Crushed stone. Violets. Full-bodied. So noble with ultra-fine tannins that last forever. Wonderful depth with cool and concentrated fruit. A lively and sophisticated wine with power and finesse. A classic." James Suckling

The exceptional single-varietal Merlot L'Apparita is outstanding with its elegance, strength of character, fine tannin and acidity structure and an endlessly long finish. An oenological rarity in Tuscany and an object of desire every year, and not only for this reason. The aroma is a combination of fruity and spicy impressions, with an excellent fleshy flavour, whose juicy, still quite incisive tannin blends well with the warm body. SUPERIORE.DE

"One of Italy's most collected Merlots, the 2021 L'Apparita opens to a rich and inky-dark appearance. Very true to the grape, this vintage hits impeccable ripeness with soft cherry intensity and spice that is padded by extra textural fiber. Like always, this wine is especially successful in terms of mouthfeel and finish. The bouquet has ripe fruit, softly toasted spice and a hint of olive tapenade. It is quite the mouthful." Wine Advocate

"This shows so much depth and intensity, with a beautiful nose of dark fruit, walnuts, licorice, iodine and seashells. Some wood showing now. Pure and structured. It shows both richness and freshness, with a full body and a compact, seamless tannin structure. Need time to soften. Try after 2028." James Suckling

"The 2021 L'Apparita is sublime. A wine of compelling inner perfume and exotic richness, the 2021 is shaping up to be one of the great L'Apparitas. Inky dark fruit, espresso, licorice, lavender and crushed rocks abound in a towering, statuesque wine that will absolutely thrill those lucky enough to own it. It perfectly embodies all the greatest qualities of this historic vintage." Vinous

Complex and exotic bouquet of spices, black olive, rosemary, plum and cherry. Firm, compact and initially introverted on the palate, followed by mint, spices, dark red fruit, cassis and graphite. The flavours come to light rather in slices, with this outstanding red it is worth waiting like nowhere else to fully discover the depth and complexity of this Tuscan jewel. SUPERIORE.DE

"Impenetrable, rich ruby violet colour. Opens with appealing notes of cassis and blackberries, plus some smoke and mint. Grippy, fine-meshed tannins at the core, opens up in many layers, dark berry fruit, still needs a few years." Falstaff

"Blackcurrants, fresh flowers and blue berries with sandalwood. Medium body with very fine tannins and a fresh finish. Very fine, focussed and bright." James Suckling

"The 2019 D'Alceo from Rampolla is creamy and resonant in the glass. Dark fruits, lavender, blackberries and spices come together in a wine that combines power and elegance. Seamless tannins effortlessly extend the finish. In many vintages, the D'Alceo is a powerhouse. The 2019 is sublime." Vinous

"This is a classic beauty. Made from 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Petit Verdot, the 2019 d'Alceo is dark and rich, but magically never heavy or bulky. It carries its weight with feather-light grace, supported by dry tannins and a beautiful layering of fruit. There is blackcurrant, kirsch, blackberry liqueur, exotic spices, black roses and crushed stone. The mineral note stands out like a delicate, shiny silver that runs through the rich, velvety texture of the wine." Wine Advocate

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

CeniPrimo is a single-varietal Sangiovese from soils characterised by a former river course. It is a 6.4 hectare plot that was planted in 1998 with a south-west exposure. This site is located in a valley next to the Arbia river and the soils here are very complex with alluvial soil and clay that contains little organic matter and less limestone. According to our tasting, it appears to be the most nuanced and varied of the three single-vineyard Gran Selezione.

Intense, fresh and bright bouquet of violets and wild spicy notes. Elegant acidity and fine mineral slate traces on the palate. Cherry, blackberry, plum, white pepper and a touch of rosemary lead this perfectly structured wine into a never-ending, multi-layered finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione CeniPrimo 2019 is a very nice wine. The 2019 is bright and translucent, with great energy and has a lot to offer. Sweet floral notes, kirsch, spices, rose petals and French oak are all beautifully emphasised. I really like the energy of this wine." Vinous

"Bold and rich, this has an enticing black cherry and chocolate aroma, with notes of damp earth and potpourri. The dark fruits are ripe and almost sticky in the mouth, lifted by floral top-notes and dried fruit flavours, and finishing with a depth of tapenade and earthiness." Decanter

"Super spicy from the aromas to the finish, this red wine is supple and taut. It offers flavours of strawberries, currants, cherries and earth, peppery spices and a hint of vanilla on the powerful finish. Although delicate, it is not lacking in intensity." Wine Spectator

"Barone Ricasoli has succeeded in emphasising the individual character of each of its Gran Selezione wines. The fruit in this sample comes from sandy and silty soils in the Val d'Arbia at lower altitudes (between 280 and 300 metres above sea level). The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Brolio CeniPrimo 2019 is a structured and concentrated wine with generous layers of dark fruits, spices, earth and candied cherries. CeniPrimo focuses on dark fruits and texture." Wine Advocate

"This wine has an intensely perfumed nose with aromas of lavender, sandalwood, dried cherries, blueberries, crème de cassis, bay leaves, walnuts and stones. Full-bodied with polished, well-integrated tannins and a multi-layered, silky and concentrated core of spiced and herbal fruit. Long. Intense. Already fantastic now, but try it in 2024." James Suckling

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

The grapes of Colledilà come from the soils of Monte Morello. The 7.6 hectare single-vineyard plot was planted in 2002 on very rocky soils rich in calcium, clay and organic matter. These characteristics give this wine its sharpness and concentration, promising long ageing in the cellar.

Ripe, dark cherry fruit and blackberry aromas, followed by tar, liquorice and potting soil. On the palate, a fine earthiness, cherry and plum, plus finely knit and slightly sweet tannins. The dense fruit and pleasant acid wire the Sangiovese provide the necessary freshness. Masterfully composed! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red. Fragrant on the nose, of juicy blood oranges, fresh wild strawberries, cherries, floral in the second echo, distantly reminiscent of stone fruit, inviting and expressive. Shows a very juicy approach and course on the palate, tightly woven tannin supports the expressive fruit, floral and radiant, yet very accessible and with high drinking flow, great Chianti Classico cinema!" Falstaff

"The 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colledilà is another terrific wine in this range from Brolio. It marries energy with depth, showing plenty of nuance as well as character. Dark red cherry/plum fruit, mocha, tobacco, blood orange and incense all run through this deep, fleshy Gran Selezione. The 2019 Colledilà is one of the best wines I have tasted from Brolio in some time." Vinous

"Lots of fresh fruit here, with orange-peel and crushed-berry character. Some crushed stone as well. Full-bodied with integrated tannins that spread across the palate and melt in nicely, making is almost seamless. Better after 2025." James Suckling

"Distinctly savory, this red delivers grassy, thyme and menthol aromas and flavors allied to notes of cherry, strawberry and loam. Angular and dense, with the fruit component emerging with air, this is long, complex and deftly balanced, revealing an aftertaste of cherry, berry, mineral and herbal accents." Wine Spectator

"The Barone Ricasoli 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colledilà exudes an elegant fruit profile, but the wine is not without significant intensity and concentration too. With Sangiovese from clayey limestone soils rich in calcium carbonate and poor in organic matter, this wine also boasts that beautiful minerality that we saw in the others. Delicate berry fruit cedes to crushed oyster shell, dark spice and campfire ash. To the palate, the wine is high, firm and long." Wine Advocate