The Wine Advocate

Valter Fissore bottles less than 4,000 bottles of this incredibly classic Barolo every year. Dark cherries, menthol, flowers and tar are just some of the classic notes in the complex bouquet of the Bricco Pernice from the Ravera single vineyard. On the palate, the austere structure and great power are joined by a fine inner sweetness. In the long finish, memories of damp earth, dried herbs and wild flowers. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium ruby red with orange. A pretty, lifted, complex bouquet with spicy, mineral top notes and minty oak notes. Needs a lot of air. Cranberry and raspberry with crisp tannins. A Barolo of the cool climate. Its character is closer to the excellent 2019 vintage than 2018. Great length and precision." Jancis Robinson

"Very attractive, perfumed nose with cherries and raspberries, hints of spiced cedar, walnut and damp earth. Medium to full-bodied with grainy tannins and chalky texture. Fresh red fruits with racy, citrusy notes on the finish. Taste it from 2026." James Suckling

"Perfumed, it exudes aromas of rose, cherry, raspberry, anise and menthol, with berry fruit persisting on the palate along with mineral and herbal flavours. Although expressive and balanced, it shows tannin and should develop well." Wine Spectator

"Bright, shiny ruby garnet with brightening rim. Great, inviting nose of fresh mint, blackberries, liquorice, then raspberries and candied rose petal. Very polished and with a creamy texture on the palate, tightly woven salty tannin wraps the clear fruit, subtle notes of blood orange, very elegant and long." Falstaff

"This wine shows just how elegant Nebbiolo is with aromas of wild raspberries and cherry preserves giving way to wild herbs, rosebuds and earth. The palate is lifted and dances with vigor and energy showing its core of fruit but with all elements in harmony and balance." Wine Enthusiast

Traditionally vinified, its intense ruby red colour, the fruity aroma with spicy and balsamic notes and its gentle start on the palate, which builds furiously, are impressive. The high-class tannin structure rests between the soft components, so that this Brunello from the dream year 2019 simultaneously demonstrates elegance and strength without appearing too modern. SUPERIORE.DE

"Fragrant, very precisely framed bouquet with red berries, mineral notes and violets, hibiscus, with fine mineral hints behind it. Quite lean and powerful in the mouth, very fine style, coherent in itself." Weinwisser

"Clear, slightly warm, somewhat nutty and hinted at tobacco-like aroma of ripe red and black berries with bloody and cedary traces. Ripe, firm, juicy, still undeveloped fruit, relatively present, crumbly-sandy, ripe tannins, slightly smoky and nutty oak notes, persistent on the palate, some bite, certain depth, cooling mineral elements, dark spice, very good, firm, tart-juicy and spicy finish." Wein-Plus

"Bright ruby red with brightening edges. Opens with notes of fresh cherries, some rosehip and light tobacco. Fine-meshed, polished tannins in the attack and on the palate, still young overall, fine salinity on the final." Falstaff

"The 2019 is forward and rich in flavours. Sun-soaked oily herbs and grilled Mediterranean shrubs are reminiscent of late summer in Tuscany. Mint and rosemary are repeated on the full-bodied, powerful palate. The tannins are mostly ripe, but a slight astringency provides a pleasant aftertaste. More rustic than elegant, but it will certainly have its fans." Decanter

"Aromas of balsamic herbs and dark chocolate give way to dried black cherries and pine shavings as the 2019 Brunello di Montalcino draws the taster to the glass. This is a supple and racy wine with a cool acidity and dark red fruits that flow over a silky textural wave. The finish is savoury and long, but also remarkably fresh, with edgy tannins that linger as the notes of salted liquorice slowly fade. The wine's balance is stunning, but don't be fooled by the 2019's openness; this is a wine for the cellar." Vinous

"A firm and silky Brunello with berry, cherry, cedar and meat flavours. It's medium-bodied and fairly dense, but shows some polish. Better after 2026." James Suckling

"The Fanti 2019 Brunello di Montalcino offers dark fruit and an articulate bouquet with elements of ripeness and balsamic herbs, unfolding its aromas in hints of liquorice, dark plums, smoked tobacco and sweet floral earth. On the palate, Brunello di Montalcino reveals much of its intensity with an abundance of ripe fruit that gently fades in the mid-palate. The tannins are gently integrated." Wine Advocate

"This silky red wine, which evokes flavours of cherries, strawberries and hibiscus, is harmonious and elegant. Mineral and wild herbal elements add details that carry through to the long, energising aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"Red mulberries on the nose, hints of star anise, wild rosemary and chinotto. Salty tannins on the palate, hints of small fruits and spicy notes." Luca Gardini

Franchetti Rosso is Passopisciaro's flagship wine and a stunningly perfect wine. The grapes come from 1000-metre-high northern Etna vineyard sites, where the soils are ash and pumice. Franchetti is a ripe, exotic wine that envelops the palate with dark fruit. Refined tannins support the fruit, while an intense inner sweetness adds elegance and finesse. A thoroughly outstanding drop. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2019 Franchetti is 97% Petit Verdot with 3% Cesanese d'Affile (an indigenous grape variety that grows mainly in Lazio or central Italy) blended in. I love the elegance, dark concentration and aromatic intensity of this very unusual and bold wine (I mean, who plants Cesanese on Mount Etna?). It's extracted and deep, with black fruits and etched end notes of pencil traces and crushed white pepper." Wine Advocate

"A red with lots of energy and a linear focus with black cherry, mint, white pepper, sandalwood and cedar aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied. Fine and intense tannins. Vivid and fresh. A blend of petit verdot and cesanese. Drink or hold." James Suckling

"Expressive, of cherry syrup, ripe blackberries, graphite, a hint of grape juice, elegant spice in the finish. With great substance and concentration, without being full-bodied, clear and precise fruit, stretches wide, savoury, tightly meshed, long." Falstaff

"The 2019 Franchetti is like a dark stallion, muscular and supple. It opens slowly in the glass, inward yet viral, with dusty dried flowers giving way to nuances of plum, brown spices, cardamom, savoury herbs and a hint of cocoa. The textures are like crushed velvet, prominent, almost heavy, but with a balance of vibrant acidity and tart fruit adding contrast. The 2019 leaves a subtle tinge of harmonious tannins, along with dark inner flowers and hints of blackcurrant that linger incredibly long. The vines for Franchetti were planted in 2000 in the Cru Guardiola." Vinous

Elisabetta Geppetti's Saffredi is one of Italy's great red wines every year, full of elegance! Dark, polished ruby red colour with purple-violet edges. The explosive aroma of blackcurrants, blackberries, plums, violets and oak spices is accompanied by fascinating spicy, ethereal and wonderfully floral accents with earthy tobacco notes. Dense and velvety on the palate, framed by firm tannins and a juicy freshness that leads the wine full of energy into an endless finish. The flavour profile, which is very typical of Saffredi, is wonderfully balanced, yet multi-layered and very focused with its spiciness. Saffredi 2021 is a genuine and multi-dimensional beauty that should mature for a few more years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Complex, elegant bouquet with fine concentration and precisely contoured fruit body, a basket of blue berries and ripe red cherries, plus a floral backdrop, violets, Mediterranean herbs and maquis as well as undergrowth. Polished, clear and radiant on the palate, juicy and tightly woven with velvety, super-fine tannins, a radiant and elegant Saffredi." Weinwisser

"Spicy-berry perfume, cassis, lots of dark fruit flavours, also nuances of black pepper; the attack is compact, the tannins fine-grained, carried by a soft acidity, finishes long and multi-faceted. Also very successful in this vintage." Vinum

"Dark ruby red core with purple nuances. Blackcurrant and mulberry on the nose, on damp earth, dark chocolate and alabaster. Dense on the palate, with tightly woven tannins, precise fear, comes in many layers, powerful, but with great finesse and incredibly long." Falstaff

"The Fattoria le Pupille 2021 Saffredi offers a seamless integration of dark fruit flavours that segue directly into spice, Tuscan cigar and earthy orris root. This vintage is compact and firm, especially in terms of mouthfeel, and there are graceful floral tones to close." Wine Advocate

"This pure, intense red wine displays aromas and flavours of blackcurrants, blackberries, blueberries and violets, underlined by graphite and wild herbs. Very tightly wound, even racy, with invigorating acidity and refined tannins, this noble red wine leans more towards the elegant side, with great harmony and length." Wine Spectator

"Fascinating aromas of sandalwood, lavender, sage and blackcurrant. Mint and spearmint. Pencil shavings. Also light coffee bean. Medium to full body with ultra-fine tannins. Lasts for minutes. Already so approachable now, but it will age beautifully. Best after 2026 and beyond." James Suckling

"The symbolic wine of the house, the first to put the winery and the region "on the map". Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot, nose of small black fruits, notes of laurel, mint and Mediterranean herbs, taut and dense drink, with salty tannins, closes with a fruity and oily return." Luca Gardini

Brilliant and finely moulded on the palate. Expressive, floral notes merge with bright red fruits, mint and ground berries to create a lively and distinctive Barolo that is endowed with pure energy and class. Albe is juicy and fruity and a clear buy, and not just because of its comparatively moderate price. It comes from the three parcels Fossati, Castello della Volta and Costa di Vergne. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Barolo Albe 2019 is a nuanced, understated wine, but also a rare Albe that needs time in the bottle. Sweet floral and spicy notes open up first, leading to an attractive core of Nebbiolo fruit. Gentle and restrained, with beautiful precision, the 2019 Albe is a quiet wine that is more about energy than size. I have found that the Albe really blossoms with a few years in the bottle. I assume that this will also be the case with this wine, as it is very classic." Vinous

"Delivers a whiff of grilled beef that gives way to flavors of cherry, raspberry, rose hip and mineral. Compact, even austere, as assertive tannins emerge on the resonant finish." Wine Spectator

"A powerful and polished red wine with berries and spices such as nutmeg and pepper. Also orange peel. Medium body. Fresh and energetic finish." James Suckling

"This is certainly one of Italy's most popular and versatile wines, and rightly so. The well-priced G.D. Vajra 2019 Barolo Albe shows ripe fruit and softness with cherry, dried raspberry and crushed rose. This vintage has a similar character to the 2016, as both vintages offer a straightforward style with good structure on the back end. The mouthfeel is polished and long, offering both accessibility and complexity." Wine Advocate

"Redcurrants on the nose, a hint of white pepper, a touch of lemongrass and clementine peel. The sip is iodised, with a fruity, spicy finish." Luca Gardini

Barbera d'Alba Scarrone from the vineyard of the same name is a beautifully layered, rich Barbera cru. Aromas of dark fragrant fruits, spices, liquorice and minerals. Opulent and impeccably balanced silky tannins, sweet floral notes in the long dry finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Lifted and very aromatic, this wine tantalizes with notes of macerated cherries, wild rose, sandalwood, star anise and wild herbs working with such harmony you have trouble taking the first sip. The lush and round palate bursts with plush red-berried fruits that give way to savory and warm spicy notes finishing with fresh earth notes." Wine Enthusiast

"Deep and intense on the nose with red and dark berries, spicy herbs, dark chocolate and burnt orange peel. Also some wet earth. Full and complex with dusty tannins and a meaty juiciness. Long lasting and bright." James Suckling

"Part of the Scarrone vineyard was replanted in 1989, and from these younger vines comes the Vietti 2020 Barbera d'Alba Vigna Scarrone. This wine is also dense and darkly concentrated, but not to the same extent as the version made from the fruit of the old vines. Dark fruits, baked plums and sweet spices add dimension and volume to this wine." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 Barbera d'Alba Vigna Scarrone is outstanding. Rich and expansive, the 2020 is infused with the essence of dark cherry fruit, rose petals, cinnamon, leather and mocha take centre stage. All the elements come together so effortlessly. On the finish, floral and spicy notes reappear. This is such a noble and polished Barbera." Vinous

Volpaia's flagship Il Puro shows beautiful fruit, elegance and a certain austerity that are indicative of this balanced vintage. The texture of the wine is dense and voluptuous and there is dark, plummy fruit, leather and cloves that meld into a wonderful drinking flow. Oak spice, tar and campfire ash on the long and rich finish. Only 2,000 bottles exist of this profound archetype of a Sangiovese that could hardly be better. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with a delicately brightening rim. Opens finely fragrant in the nose, of juicy cherries, wild berries, underlaid with dried rose hips, delicately of dried tomatoes, multilayered and inviting. On the palate it is powerful and clear, opens up juicy and salty, with a great tension; long finish with a noble finish." Falstaff

"Made from a single vineyard that’s planted with 25 native Sangiovese clones rescued from former sharecroppers’ plots, this has an appealing bouquet that mixes whiffs of herbs with earthy blackberries and roasted coffee. Ripe acidity and fine-grained tannins support a palate loaded with mellow dark cherries, while nuances of toasted oak and undergrowth complicate the ample and poised finish." Decanter

"The Volpaia 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Casanova Il Puro is an organic wine in a pretty bottle with a red wax seal. The fruit is soft and round in this vintage with plenty of cherry, dried raspberry, spice and sweet leather. It boasts a full-bodied texture but ends on a silky note." Wine Advocate

"Intense notes of cedar, cocoa, violets and tobacco, combined with tangy lemon, wild strawberry and cranberry. Sharp and precise with medium to full body and tight tannins. Intense. From organically grown grapes. Needs a couple of years to integrate." James Suckling

This is a beautiful creation from a vintage that has presented some challenges to winemakers elsewhere in Italy and here in Piedmont. Barbaresco Bernadot with Treiso fruit shows a graceful, mid-weight approach to the 2014 vintage with red and purple fruits that are crisp and fresh. The bouquet is a sounding board for cassis, sour cherry, camphor ash, crushed stone and powdered licorice. Bernadot shows a firm texture and a lingering, silky intensity, while being refreshingly natural and weightless; an utterly captivating wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"A mix of earth, underbrush, leather, juniper and tar aromas continue on the palate in this savory Nebbiolo. Firmly structured, finishing long and dry, with a tobacco note." Wine Spectator

"Elegant, bright ruby red. Inviting, equally elegant, of roses and pomegranate, a hint of rubber. Pleasant palate with juicy tannin, salty and stimulating, wraps the mouth in a velvety dress and finishes long with fresh cherry fruit." Falstaff

"The 2014 Barbaresco Bernadot is a more structured and opulent wine with thick lines and a dark core of black fruit. Thanks to vineyards in Treiso, the wine delivers extra power and density with deep layers of blackberry, spice and crushed river stone. This Barbaresco boasts a pretty layering effect that peels back to show delicate intensity and finesse." Wine Advocate

"The 2014 Barbaresco Bernardot has shut down since I last tasted it about nine months ago. The breadth that is typical of this Treiso site comes through, but the 2014 is quite reluctant today. Hints of smoke, licorice, underbrush and a host of balsamic notes infuse the resonant finish." Vinous

Currá is an archaic long-distance runner and presents itself very aristocratic when young with increasing bottle maturity or also good aeration. Then it reveals dark berries and a fine chocolate note in the bouquet. In its style, it is edgy at first, but then at no point denies its greatness and harmony. Tobacco, plums, smoke and tobacco: with every glass, this exceptional wine reveals new facets and a firework of impressions. This is Nebbiolo from 65-year-old vines at the highest level! SUPERIORE.DE

"With defining character and hearty bite, compact and pithy at every stage, fleshy all around with velvety tannins and animating length." Weinwisser

"Mid to deep developing ruby with narrow orange rim. Firm nose of ripe fruit spiked with sweet baking spices. Compact sour-cherry fruit palate with bags of crunchy tannins. Succulent and with tannic bite on the finish. Quite gorgeous." Jancis Robinson

"The 2016 Barbaresco Currà is a dense, explosive wine endowed with huge mid-palate density and potent tannins to match. Wild cherry, tobacco, cinnamon, dried rose petal and spice emerge with a bit of coaxing. The 2016 is a powerful wine." Vinous

"A beefy style, this red buries its cherry, iron and menthol flavors in a matrix of thick tannins. The vivid acidity works in tandem, yet in the end, there's an equilibrium of all the elements, with the fruit reemerging." Wine Spectator

"Showing darker and slightly more saturated fruit, the Sottimano 2016 Barbaresco Currá is a more robust and amply endowed wine compared to the other single-vineyard expressions in this portfolio. Drawing its fruit from the village of Neive, the Currá offers ripe berry and redcurrant with softer tones of spice and tilled earth. The wine's concentration and richness are an absolute pleasure, and you could direct this bottle to a heavier roasted meat dish when the time is right. Fruit is drawn from a 1.5-hectare plot in Neive." Wine Advocate

Deep, dark, sparkling ruby colour with a fine garnet rim. The bouquet is a colourful bouquet of black cherry, elderberry, graphite and a strong cassis note. On the powerful palate, the black fruits again, plus a wonderful balance and freshness with a picture-book tannin that rounds off the perfect impression. Fine energy and harmony. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby colour with a fine garnet rim. Very intense and appealing nose, full of dark cherries, blackberries and fresh rose petals. Polished and with plenty of finely woven tannins, opens up in many layers, may seem a little soft for a Barolo, but has great presence and very good drinking flow." Falstaff

"Aromas of vanilla, resin and toasty oak lead off, followed by reticent flavors of cherry, raspberry, underbrush and iron. This comes together on the finish yet will require a few years to absorb the oak." Wine Spectator

"The Elio Altare 2020 Barolo Arborina makes a bright first impression with lots of cherry fruit, cranberry and tart berry nuances. It offers underripe flavours, which are much appreciated in a hot vintage like this. A hint of minerality adds spiciness in the form of wet stone or petrichor. The Arborina shows the classic Nebbiolo flavours, with good volume, velvety tannins and obvious freshness." Wine Advocate

"The Barolo Arborina 2020 is a bright, concentrated wine that shows all the energy typical of the La Morra vineyard, especially in its driving tannin profile. Dark cherry, spice, leather, menthol and dried flowers come alive in the glass. Floral and spicy notes give it aromatic presence and breadth on the finish. I would give this wine a few years to mature." Vinous

Clerico's Barolo del Comune di Monforte d'Alba shows all the appeal that this high altitude vineyard is capable of and Domenico Clerico's team interprets each vintage with elegance and intensity. Sweet macerated cherry, mint, spices, orange peel and raspberries linger on the lingering, vibrant and agile finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Firm, rather tart, youthful, slightly smoky aroma of more red than black berries with nutty tones, dried rose petals, tobacco ash, pomegranate seeds and traces of iodine and tar. Ripe, tart, juicy, clear, youthful fruit, present, yet crumbly tannin, smoky and slightly tobacco notes, a little dried herbs and rose petals again, persistent on the palate, moderate acidity, a certain depth, ethereal spice in the background, again pomegranate seeds, some salt in the background, again a hint of tar, peppery traces, elegant, almost dancing style with freshness, very good, firm, juicy and spicy finish." Wein-Plus

"Bright, light ruby colour with garnet-red nuances. Spicy and with compact fruit on the nose, notes of wild berries, clove and lemongrass, a hint of graphite. Velvety and soft on the palate, then with beautiful tension, precise fruit and fine freshness, very long." Falstaff

"Ripe fruit and floral aromas, complex palate with mixed berries, dried plums, pressed potpourri, dried flowers and leather, with prominent tannins." Decanter

"A mix of ripe cherry, strawberry, sweet spice and tobacco flavors mark this supple, accessible red, whose refined tannins leave a light powdery feel on the finish." Wine Spectator

"The Domenico Clerico 2020 Barolo del Comune di Monforte d'Alba is characterised by spiced cranberry and blood orange. This vintage is open and front-heavy overall, but touches on all the main elements of the Nebbiolo play list. The wine is lean with young tannins. All in all, the oak is pleasantly restrained, and the wine only needs another year or two in the bottle for the fruit to fully develop." Wine Advocate

"This Barolo shows plums, cranberries, fresh roses, violets, pomegranate and blood oranges. This interpretation shows juicy acidity and ripe tannins with a slightly toasty finish and the dustiness of Nebbiolo, but with a spicy finish centred on liquorice. The tannins will soften and develop more complexity in two to three years." James Suckling

"An impressive example of the characteristics and potential of Barolo di Monforte. Blackberry on the nose, with. Notes of black pepper in grains and romanmint. Drink intense and taut, whipped dark-skinned fruit, sweet spices and important mentholation finish." Luca Gardini

The grapes for the profound Le Vigne come from Baudana in Serralunga d'Alba (for the power), Villero in Castiglione Falletto (for the precision), Vignane in Barolo (for the purity of the flavours) and Merli in Novello (for the fullness of the fruit). It opens wide with aromas of fresh red fruit and a delicate spicy note. Very intense on the palate, remarkably elegant, fine-grained tannins, extremely clear, structured and long. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, intense ruby-garnet colour. Intense nose with notes of plum and wild raspberry, followed by some liquorice and cloves. Salty and juicy on the palate, shows fine cherry fruit at the front, then opens up with grippy tannins, good pressure on the final." Falstaff

"The Barolo Le Vigne 2020 is characterised by its brilliant aromatic intensity and great depth. Crushed rose petals, mint, blood orange, spices, lavender and pomegranate blend together. Le Vigne has slightly more aromatic vibrancy and vigour than the Aleste, but shares its sibling's sense of openness." Vinous

"Black cherry, raspberry and plum are wrapped in a veil of toasted oak in this red wine. Ripe and dense, yet with a sense of elegance, this wine lingers with fine balance and freshness on the finish, which is characterised by iron and eucalyptus." Wine Spectator

"The 2020 Barolo Le Vigne has an open texture with sun-drenched flavours. You get ripe fruit with black cherries, blackcurrants, forest floor and wild mushrooms. With time in the glass, the wine reveals floral definition, grilled tarragon herb and a heavier note of wheat pastry." Wine Advocate

"The flavours of blackberry, spice and tar are enticing and lead to a full but firm body that shows density and depth. The tannins are very well integrated and feel fused with the wine. Slightly bitter orange and mineral character on the finish. Complex and curated." James Suckling

"The wine is a bold expression of dark, macerated cherries, earthy undertones with the nuanced complexity of oolong tea and a medley of spices. The palate is characterised by a dark, smoky character dusted with spice, creating a big and commanding presence in the glass that shows the depth and power of the wine but never goes too far, maintaining an elegant line in the glass." Wine Enthusiast

Altesinos Riserva is a taut and firm wine with perfectly nuanced fruit and an impressive aristocracy that always characterises the great elegance of Altesinos wines. In addition to its noble restraint, this Riserva is extremely refined, revealing a cosy ripeness with precise cherry aromas, spices, leather and traces of liquorice. Already exceptionally good today, it will certainly be even better in a few years' time! SUPERIORE.DE

"This red starts out round, turning more precise and taut as it builds to the finish. Shows cherry, wild herb, soy and loam flavors that ply the supple texture, before the tannins exert their influence and the finish tightens up (a good sign for the future)." Wine Spectator

"The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva shows dark fruit, dried cherry and baked plum. The wine is slightly subdued aromatically speaking compared to the new Brunello annata release, and I chalk that up to the very hot and dry conditions of the relentless 2017 summer. Cinnamon, cumin and crushed clove appear in a second wave and underline this Riserva's more elaborate aging regime. The finish is layered and rich with full-bodied Sangiovese intensity." Wine Advocate

"Complex and fragrant nose of neroli, currants, sour cherries, sandalwood, cassis and wild herbs. Roasted walnuts, too. Full-bodied with firm, fine-grained tannins and vibrant acidity. Full of energy and power." James Suckling

Pajana - the most modern wine in the entire Clerico range - presents itself as a closed, compact wine with great potential. Rich ruby colour with a slight garnet rim. Compact nose, with rich notes of blackberry, dark cherries and a hint of cinchona bark in the background. Literally explodes on the palate, lots of ripe, present fruit, then opens up with lots of fine-meshed tannins, savoury depth, full-bodied pressure. SUPERIORE.DE

"Clear, firm and deep, polished, red and black berry flavours with leather, herbs and dried rose petals, pomegranate, tobacco and a hint of tomato essence. Ripe, polished, very juicy, youthful fruit, fine acid bite and plenty of ripe, still youthful but crumbly tannin, dried rose petals and a little herbs on the palate, peppery, ethereal notes, also a hint of juniper, persistent, deep and multi-layered, still completely undeveloped, salt in the background, a hint of cocoa, very good to long, firm finish with noble juice and fine spice." Wein-Plus

"Sparkling, light ruby red colour. Elegant bouquet of small wild berries, with notes of rose petals, precious wood and a hint of mocha on the finish. Powerful on the palate, very juicy, with clear fruit and silky tannins and a long finish." Falstaff

"Powerful, muscular nose. Solid on the palate with plenty of mass and grip. A serious, age-worthy wine. The finish is very dry, but convincing. Long. Muscular. Almost salty." Jancis Robinson

"The bouquet is quiet but full of potential, offering hints of wild mint, thyme and tart red berries under a veil of sweet and savoury spices. The palate reveals a refined structure with elegant tannins that accentuate the dried cherry flavours, while a savoury undertone hints at the complexity that will only unfold after years in the cellar." Wine Enthusiast

"Fragrant, harmonious and charming, this red touches all the bases. Cherry, strawberry, floral, menthol, iron and sweet spice flavors mingle with the lively acidity and fine-grained tannins. This firms up on the finish but remains elegant and long." Wine Spectator

"Pale ruby red colour and intense floral bouquet of fresh violets, roses, bergamot-like citrus fruits, pomegranate and sweet spices. The attack is soft, with velvety tannins on the mid-palate, a full body and crisp, melting acidity. The finish is a little austere with notes of cherry stones. Lots of good substance here. Enjoyable now, but will improve with ageing." James Suckling

"The Domenico Clerico 2020 Barolo Ginestra Pajana shows a great balance between dark fruit and integrated spice, which comes from the increasingly gentle ageing in oak. The results are impeccably smooth, and the fruit remains bright, very lively. It finishes dry with smoky tar and liquorice. However, the Pajana has a great fruit profile that persists throughout. The combination of fruit and tannins overwhelms the palate, making this a significant Barolo worthy of its age." Wine Advocate

"The unique style of the Clerico house in a "jewel" from Monforte d'Alba. On the nose, notes of red plums, with sensations of undergrowth and a hint of Valdostan mint, with nuances of nutmeg on the finish. The mouthfeel has salty tannins and a return of red fruits and undergrowth." Luca Gardini

Beautifully weighted, the 2019 edition is full yet agile with enough structure to carry it over the next decade. Above all, it emphasises the freshness and balance of the vintage: the aromas unfold slowly, but are very floral, with cherry and thyme blossoms underscored by peppery notes. Crisp red plums and juicy cherries dominate the palate, with the youthful, grippy tannins needing a little time to integrate perfectly. SUPERIORE.DE

"It opens with a fruity flavour of red and blue fruits, with spicy notes reminiscent of cinnamon and cardamom. Dense and creamy in the mouth, very juicy, still a little grippy in the tannins, a modern Brunello that should be ready to drink in 1 to 2 years." Weinwisser

"Bright ruby red colour. Ripe blackberries, some undergrowth, dried oregano and loam on the nose. Great tension on the palate, juicy, dark fruit, tightly woven tannins and a precise final with pressure." Falstaff

"Deep to dark ruby red in colour. Deep, brooding and backward on the nose, but with real precision. Lots of juicy red fruit and impressive, fine-grained tannins. Still a little embryonic, but already hard to resist. Pure class." Jancis Robinson

"Pure and refined wine with lively raspberries, red cherries, rosehips and a hint of citrus blossom. Medium to full-bodied with firm but silky tannins. Excellent acid backbone. Enjoyable now, but give it another two to three years to develop." James Suckling

"Deep notes of dried black cherries meet cedar shavings and worn leather as the seductive Brunello di Montalcino 2019 slowly unfolds in the glass. It is surprisingly juicy and energising, with a pure blend of red fruits and inner flowers accompanied by fresh acidity. Fine tannins assert themselves on the finish as the 2019 takes on a youthful tension and pinches the cheeks, while tart cranberry notes fade into a youthful, crisp final." Vinous

"The certified organic Col d'Orcia 2019 Brunello di Montalcino shows ripe fruit, blackberry, earthy notes, liquorice and, generally speaking, a much bigger and riper fruit profile compared to its peers. It offers a full-bodied Brunello opulence that can be enjoyed in the short or medium term, and the wine delivers flavours of dried fruit such as plum and fig to finish. The tannins are velvety and contribute to the richness of the rather forward and immediate mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 is immediately inviting and expressive. It seduces with lovely tones of red rose, cherry and sweet thyme. Expansive and spacious, the palate unfolds fluidly with layers of delicious red plum and pomegranate. Hibiscus, rosewater and orange hide in every crevice. A brilliant demonstration of the flavourful juiciness of Sangiovese. Deceptively gentle at the start, fine sandy tannins build in a worthy crescendo." Decanter

"This densely packed version is resonant and persistent, with fine integration of all its components, though today it is compact and austere, revealing flavours of cherry, raspberry, rose, earth and minerals. Give it the benefit of the doubt." Wine Spectator

"Notes of marasca, geranium and eucalyptus on the nose. Juicy tannins on the palate, balsamic and floral notes, compact flavour and crispness." Luca Gardini

Classic Rosso from the Langhe, made from 50% Nebbiolo and 50% Barbera grapes from the Ginestra and Bussia districts. Inviting, exuberant Barbera-influenced bouquet of raspberry jam, dark fruit, leather, tar and tobacco. Deep, plump and very inviting, drinky and opulent on the palate. Very accessible even at a young age. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Langhe Rosso Monprà 2020 is a blend of Barbera from old vines (planted in 1971) and Nebbiolo from Bussia Sottana. Juicy and expressive, with plenty of Nebbiolo nerve, the Monprà delivers the goods. Juicy black cherry, gravel, spices, menthol, liquorice, dried flowers and a hint of French oak all come together in this wine. The 2020 is a particularly beautiful edition of the Monprà." Vinous

"The Langhe Rosso Monprà 2020 shows lovely richness and concentration in this hot vintage with dried cherry, blackberry, spice and liquorice (both red and black). The flavours are up front, but the wine shows a streamlined mouthfeel to close gently." Wine Advocate

Here comes the third vintage of Stefano Frascolla's heart project from the Alta Maremma. Just 2,500 bottles of this 100% Syrah are bottled, aged (on the skins) for half a year in amphorae, then filtered and matured in small French oak barrels.

Radiant ruby red. On the nose, a seductive mix of cherry with hints of chocolate, herbs and a subtle liquorice note. On the palate, cherry again, complemented by a kaleidoscope of chocolate, coffee and a subtle juniper note. A fabulous acid structure and fine-grained tannins guide the precisely composed wine into a furious final. Keir complements the winery's high-class portfolio in a very independent and emphatic way. Great! SUPERIORE.DE

"Shiny ruby-violet with a little light rim. Opens with fine spicy notes, pepper and ivy, then some cherry, blood orange. On the palate lots of grippy, hearty tannin, dark berries, some tobacco, a little brittle on the final." Falstaff

"The green-tobacco and pepper character is very intense with blackberry and black-cherry undertones. Full-bodied and layered with soft tannins that are creamy and very pretty. A full yet soft-textured palate. Succulent and delicious." James Suckling

"A pure expression of Syrah that spends six months in amphorae, the Tua Rita 2019 Keir Rosso is a gregarious and super fun wine that is a joy to drink and a great conversation starter thanks to the crafty approach used in its winemaking. Long skin maceration times give the wine extra intensity. The tightly pored surface of the clay amphorae (that are fired in kilns at very hot temperatures and long durations) means that the wine gets less oxygen during winemaking. This contributes to its delicate and elegant flavors and ultimately to the promising longevity of this vintage. Keir is not as full-bodied as other Tuscan Syrahs, but the wine shows terrific purity and focus instead. The bouquet offers punchy black fruit, plum, tea leaf and savory tobacco." Wine Advocate

"2019 is for Stefano Frascolla an exceptional vintage - one of the best vintages of the last two decades. Bright magenta in colour with an exuberant nose of vivid sweet blackcurrant, cream and spice, this has youthful raspberry, white pepper and flint flavours mixed with concentrated yet vibrant fruit. Impossible to resist, with a lovely weightless texture and harmony, it dances seamlessly across the palate and disappears with incredible lightness but lingering flavours. Syrah meets Burgundy!" Decanter

Deep dark and impenetrable ruby red. Complex bouquet with endless layers of dark fruit and aromas, complex on the palate, tightly woven and with a long, silky mouthfeel. Very focused and juicy Cabernet Franc in Riserva quality from one of the most profound and beautiful vintages of the new millennium so far. SUPERIORE.DE

"This is Fattoria Kappa's top Cabernet Franc wine. The Essenza 2016 is packaged in a heavy glass bottle with a black wax capsule. It shows dark fruits, spices and rich saturation with a particularly full-bodied style. With this powerful bottle, you should fire up the grill to grill steak or pork chops." Wine Advocate

"Sparkling ruby with a slightly lightening rim. Dense and memorable nose, full of dark currant and pickled cherries, lots of tobacco in the background. Juicy on the palate, well-defined fruit, grippy tannin in many layers, firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

Franchetti Rosso is Passopisciaro's flagship wine and a stunningly perfect wine. The grapes come from 1000-metre-high northern Etna vineyard sites, where the soils are ash and pumice. Franchetti is a ripe, exotic wine that envelops the palate with dark fruit. Refined tannins support the fruit, while an intense inner sweetness adds elegance and finesse. A thoroughly outstanding drop. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Franchetti is a unique wine that perfectly interprets the high volcanic soils. Power, structure and then such a straightforward concentration of aromas: deep scent of black cherries, plums, orange zest and mint. Then comes a distinct minerality. Dark chocolate and blueberry show on the palate, spiced with fresh tarragon. A great wine to know from Etna." Vinum

"The Vini Franchetti 2020 Franchetti is very spicy and savory with inky black fruit aromas. You feel the 15.5% alcohol content over the wine's thick, full-bodied texture." Wine Advocate

"Dark ruby red with a softly lightening rim. In the nose of ripe heart cherries, paired with cold smoke, mulberries as well as freshly roasted coffee and a hint of Ras-el-Hanout. Extremely polished and compact on the palate, opens to juicy tannin, punchy and with plenty of finesse, keeps coming back, dense, long and balanced." Falstaff

"The 2020 Franchetti is beautiful, jumping out of the glass, spicy and intense, showing off its Cesanese aromas with a mix of blackberries, lavender, sage, white pepper and smoke that make it impossible to ignore. This wine is very structured, almost creamy yet tangy, with medium body and a salty core of minerality that balances the masses of ripe dark fruit and sweet herbal notes. The length is amazing, as is the harmony within. It finishes structured yet supple, with violet flowers and nuances of plum jam that linger. This wine is already very appealing, elegance personified, but the best is surely yet to come." Vinous

Sesta di Sopra is not only one of our many real insider tips, but also presents a powerful and at the same time wonderfully balanced wine in this important vintage. The 2015 Riserva impressively presents a masculine and muscular personality in the glass. The nose smells strikingly of dark fruits, wild berries, sour cherries, leather and tobacco. All these components blend seamlessly together. On the palate, a medium texture and density and, as it progresses, a fantastically long finish. This is a prime example of the great 2015 Riserva vintage and a wine of great inner class and elegance. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva balances strikingly vibrant cherry and strawberry with classic leather and earth tones. Its textural red berry fruits coast across the palate with an almost-creamy feel, complemented by hints of licorice and spice. Grippy tannins take hold throughout the long and austere finish, as inner florals slowly fade." Vinous

"This red is dense and monolithic, with gripping tannins surrounding the core of blackberry and dark plum fruit. Mediterranean scrub, tar and iron notes add detail as this finishes long and tense. Best from 2025." Wine Spectator

"Here's a precious wine with a mere 900 bottles in existence. The Sesta di Sopra 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva opens to a tight and dense bouquet that takes a little extra effort to unpack. At this very young stage in the wine's life, you get dark cherry and wild plum, with subtle spice, earth, cola and medicinal herb. This estate farms schistous soils (galestro), and that mineral imprint of pencil shaving, brimstone and gravel is unmistakable." Wine Advocate

"Lots of richness and depth to this with superb aromas and flavors. High intensity. Notes of clove, sandalwood and cedar mingle with walnuts and dried violets. Crushed gravel, too. This has juicy black cherries, vanilla and more cloves on the palate. Full body and firm yet refined tannins. Drink from 2023." James Suckling

A beautiful, very sensual, feminine wine that is only vinified in the best vintages. Exquisitely flavoured with dark fruit, elegant and fine on the palate with plenty of fruit and length. It was named after the nickname once given to the young wild Clerico by his father: Aeroplan Servaj - wild aeroplane. And the labelling is just as wild and creative - there are six different labels! SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium red; caramel-fruity, inviting; juicy attack, fullness, round, dark fruity, lots of good tannin, pleasing." Merum

"Medium ruby red colour. Complex, spicy nose of red fruits and pure red fruits with enveloping tannins on the palate. Great balance and length. Firmly structured, yet elegant and with a certain suppleness." Jancis Robinson

"Aeroplanservaj is a kind of futuristic label for the first Barolo produced in Serralunga by Domenico Clerico. Oscar Arrivabene, the winery's winemaker, explained that 10% of the oak barrels are used for ageing in barriques; this is more of a logistical decision than a stylistic one, as the plot in Serralunga is so small. The wine has hints of smoky woods, dried cherries, cinnamon spice and a heady violet note that permeates the structure. The attack is austere, not rustic, just wild and youthful. The tannins need to be tamed at the moment, but it's a Serralunga full of detail and I'd wager it will age well." Decanter

"Firm, complex and deep, slightly iodised, also fleshy and a little herbal aroma of ripe black rather than red berries with a hint of soy sauce, tomato essence and floral nuances. Firm, tart and juicy fruit, surprisingly fresh despite all its power, a certain acid bite and fine, youthful tannins, slightly smoky notes on the palate, a little cocoa and hints of coffee, peppery notes in the background, a little herbs and salt, good depth, still barely developed, tobacco traces, very good, firm, juicy and tart-spicy, again slightly smoky finish with peppery, juniper-like tones and noticeable alcoholic strength." Wein-plus

"Flavours of cherries and plums with some fresh roses follow through to a medium body, with fine tannins and a fresh and clean finish. Bright and lively. Taut. Firm and structured." James Suckling

"This red wine is rich but densely woven, providing a backdrop for the flavours of cherries, wild strawberries, earth, minerals and wild herbs. Balanced, even graceful, with fine intensity and a lingering aftertaste of fruit, minerals and herbs." Wine Spectator

"Brilliant ruby red with garnet-coloured rim. On the nose, initially fine earthy tones, some cold smoke, after some time Assam tea, ripe raspberries, cranberries, precious wood. Polished, creamy fruit on the palate, extremely energetic and with vibrant acidity, the tannins are powerful and firm, currently still a little young and wide-meshed, will mature well." Falstaff

"The first Serralunga from the historic Monforte winery, bottled for the first time in 2006, comes from a beautiful family story. Notes of cranberry on the nose, nuances of peony, undergrowth and eucalyptus." Luca Gardini

"With its colourful fantasy label, the Domenico Clerico 2019 Barolo Aeroplan Servaj shows dark fruit and a velvety texture with rusty nails and pencil shavings. This vintage is more concentrated and structured overall, and the result is both rich and very beautiful. The fruit comes from vines planted in 1994. The wine is aged mostly in large oak barrels and about 10% in barriques." Wine Advocate

Sangiovese in purezza. Wonderfully spicy aroma, dark forest berries and cherries, some graphite and cedar wood. On the palate, silky elegance, juicy, dark berry fruits, paired with an animating fruit-acid play that makes the wine really dance across the tongue. Percarlo has depth and length as well as potential for many years in the cellar. One of the great single-varietal Sangiovese of central Tuscany. SUPERIORE.DE

"A vibrant, open-knit red, featuring black cherry, blackberry and plum fruit accented by iron, wild herbs and spices. Taut and linear, with a silky texture, lingering finish and resonant tannins. Shows terrific energy that builds from the beginning to the long, complex aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"One of the most well-known Sangiovese wines on the market is the San Giusto a Rentennano 2019 Percarlo. This organic wine has a touch of extra ripeness or richness that goes beyond the bouquet. You feel like you can bite into the fruit, and indeed the 2019 vintage stands out for its unique power and density. There's a lot to take in, and there's enough lingering fibre and fruit power to fill a long drinking window." Wine Advocate

"The Percarlo 2019 is a wine of restraint. The fruit is very pure and the tannins are very fine for this year, but also a little firm, which needs time to release. Bright red fruits, cedar, tobacco, liquorice, blood orange and spices open up nicely and play with the lively tannins. I suspect the 2019 will need a few years to reach its best level." Vinous

The great Barolo Ciabot Mentin Ginestra from the historic Clerico vineyard. Bright garnet red colour. Open-hearted bouquet of ripe fruit and spices, the elegant tannins are accompanied by a pleasant freshness in the complex flavour, deep and long on the finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Fairly firm, concentrated, somewhat ethereal aroma of ripe red and black berries with restrained cherry notes, Provençal herbs and tomato essence. Ripe, dense and warm, fairly juicy fruit with present but crumbly, very ripe tannins, some cocoa and a hint of coffee, persistent and deep on the palate, still rather undeveloped, but already with a certain charm, some bite, fine smoky and ethereal-herbal spice, also some pepper, salty-mineral tones in the background, a little black olive and again tomato essence, fine tobacco flavours, very good, firm, juicy finish with complex spice." Wein-Plus

"Bright ruby red with a brightening rim. svelte on the nose with aromas of crisp cherry and raspberry, plus hints of hibiscus and liquorice. On the palate with a fine alternation of fresh acidity, precise fruit and tightly woven tannins, harmonious and persistent." Falstaff

"Rich fruit and dried fruit flavours. Really captivating." Jancis Robinson

"Initially restrained, the nose gradually reveals ripe berries ready for preserving, accompanied by sweet spices, savoury herbs and fresh rose petals. On the palate, this wine is elegant and refined, with exceptionally pure tannins that are well integrated but unobtrusive. The flavours are pure and the warmth of the vintage comes through fully on the palate, which is rich and forward. Well structured and polished, this is a top class wine." Wine Enthusiast

"Bright ruby red colour that suggests youth. The nose is very floral with notes of fresh roses, violets, pomegranate, cherries and gentle spices. The medium-bodied palate is soft with velvety tannins, refreshing acidity, some vibrancy and a polished finish. A really enjoyable wine." James Suckling

"Cru Ginestra, a refined and multi-layered Barolo. On the nose, notes of cherry, a hint of wild mint, star anise and rosemary, with a hint of clementine peel. Salty tannins, mentholated hints and notes of medicinal plants on the palate. Finish with citrus fruit flavours." Luca Gardini

"The Domenico Clerico 2020 Barolo Ginestra Ciabot Mentin shows a really great balance in terms of the integration of oak. For the first time, the winery has decided to use large oak barrels (the barrique has been completely removed), and the results are exceptional. There are lots of dark fruits, such as cranberries and redcurrants, which characterise the wine throughout. There is also black tea and spice, but these tones work with the fruit rather than against it. The wine finishes supple, with polished tannins, lovely acidity and a much brighter and lighter overall personality." Wine Advocate

"Year after year, the Ciabot Mentin shines with its remarkable consistency. This 2020 begins somewhat closed, with restrained blood orange, but then reveals an exquisite blend of red cherry, violet, leafy lightness and liquorice depth. Graphite and a hint of yellow fruit dominate the palate, carried by a lively acidity and velvety, elegant and very polished tannins." Decanter

"This red is pure and elegant, with rose, cherry, raspberry and mineral aromas and flavors fused to a firm, vibrant structure. Shows fine intensity and verve, with a long, detailed aftertaste of fruit, mineral and spice notes." Wine Spectator

A beautiful, very sensual, feminine wine that is only vinified in the best vintages. Exquisitely flavoured with dark fruit, elegant and fine on the palate with plenty of fruit and length. It was named after the nickname once given to the young wild Clerico by his father: Aeroplan Servaj - wild aeroplane. And the labelling is just as wild and creative - there are six different labels! SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium red; caramel-fruity, inviting; juicy attack, fullness, round, dark fruity, lots of good tannin, pleasing." Merum

"Medium ruby red colour. Complex, spicy nose of red fruits and pure red fruits with enveloping tannins on the palate. Great balance and length. Firmly structured, yet elegant and with a certain suppleness." Jancis Robinson

"Aeroplanservaj is a kind of futuristic label for the first Barolo produced in Serralunga by Domenico Clerico. Oscar Arrivabene, the winery's winemaker, explained that 10% of the oak barrels are used for ageing in barriques; this is more of a logistical decision than a stylistic one, as the plot in Serralunga is so small. The wine has hints of smoky woods, dried cherries, cinnamon spice and a heady violet note that permeates the structure. The attack is austere, not rustic, just wild and youthful. The tannins need to be tamed at the moment, but it's a Serralunga full of detail and I'd wager it will age well." Decanter

"Firm, complex and deep, slightly iodised, also fleshy and a little herbal aroma of ripe black rather than red berries with a hint of soy sauce, tomato essence and floral nuances. Firm, tart and juicy fruit, surprisingly fresh despite all its power, a certain acid bite and fine, youthful tannins, slightly smoky notes on the palate, a little cocoa and hints of coffee, peppery notes in the background, a little herbs and salt, good depth, still barely developed, tobacco traces, very good, firm, juicy and tart-spicy, again slightly smoky finish with peppery, juniper-like tones and noticeable alcoholic strength." Wein-plus

"Flavours of cherries and plums with some fresh roses follow through to a medium body, with fine tannins and a fresh and clean finish. Bright and lively. Taut. Firm and structured." James Suckling

"This red wine is rich but densely woven, providing a backdrop for the flavours of cherries, wild strawberries, earth, minerals and wild herbs. Balanced, even graceful, with fine intensity and a lingering aftertaste of fruit, minerals and herbs." Wine Spectator

"Brilliant ruby red with garnet-coloured rim. On the nose, initially fine earthy tones, some cold smoke, after some time Assam tea, ripe raspberries, cranberries, precious wood. Polished, creamy fruit on the palate, extremely energetic and with vibrant acidity, the tannins are powerful and firm, currently still a little young and wide-meshed, will mature well." Falstaff

"The first Serralunga from the historic Monforte winery, bottled for the first time in 2006, comes from a beautiful family story. Notes of cranberry on the nose, nuances of peony, undergrowth and eucalyptus." Luca Gardini

"With its colourful fantasy label, the Domenico Clerico 2019 Barolo Aeroplan Servaj shows dark fruit and a velvety texture with rusty nails and pencil shavings. This vintage is more concentrated and structured overall, and the result is both rich and very beautiful. The fruit comes from vines planted in 1994. The wine is aged mostly in large oak barrels and about 10% in barriques." Wine Advocate