The Wine Advocate

2020 is the first organic Oreno vintage. Deep dark ruby violet. On the nose, cassis, blackcurrant and a powerful herbal spice with a good dose of pipe tobacco, tar and crushed boulders. On the palate, dark berries, chocolate and a cornucopia of herbs define the full body. This juicy wine monument has precisely integrated tannins, an enormous silkiness and a seemingly endless finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Oreno is the top wine of the Tenuta Sette Ponti of the Moretti Cuseri family. The estate is located near Arezzo. The Oreno 2020 consists of 50 % Merlot, 40 % Cabernet Sauvignon and 10 % Petit Verdot. It is matured for 18 months in French oak barriques. Dense and clear, as well as with beautiful race, the Oreno presents itself somewhat finer than the Orma from the sister estate from the Maremma. Clearly more fresh and with more acid kick, the Oreno shines with a fleshy presence and great sweetness. The tannins are somewhat rounder, with good, creamy richness and solid length. In the finish, it seems a little slippery." Weinwisser

"Bright ruby red. The nose smells softly of blackberries, ripe forest fruits, some liquorice and mint, plus fine sealing wax in the reverberation. On the palate radiant, clear, tightly woven tannin, plus present fruit, very juicy on the back end, seems balanced and profound, long finish." Falstaff

"Beautiful detail on the nose, a sweet floral scent with hints of dried herbs, coffee and mint. Structured and fleshy, this wine has weight and power from the start, focusing more on the tannins and concentration of the crisp fruit than the obvious vibrancy at this stage. A serious, contemplative wine that has a lot going for it. I love the intensity of this wine, it is confident and has a clear direction and energy. I also like the salty, smoked stone flavour at the end, which adds nuance and a sense of place. Detailed and expressive, great winemaking and there's a lot to discover." Decanter

"The Tenuta Sette Ponti 2020 Oreno from a warm vintage is very rich and full-bodied and definitely softer compared to the previous 2019 vintage. This wine shows lots of tasty fruit and velvety concentration with blackberry jam and baked cherry. The Oreno gives you a very generous expression of Tuscany to enjoy in the short or medium term." Wine Advocate

"The Oreno 2020 is a dark, brooding beauty. Black cherry, plum, tobacco, spices, menthol, liquorice and dried herbs race across the palate. Deep, fleshy and very expressive, the 2020 Oreno has a lot to offer. It should drink well with minimal cellaring, but also has enough substance to drink well for many years to come." Vinous

"This wine is lush, dense and vibrant, with aromas of black cherries, blackberries and blackcurrants accompanied by mineral, cedary and spicy elements. It firms up on the finish, with fruity, mineral and spicy accents and a nice length." Wine Spectator

"Wow. Wonderful nose of dark cherries, chocolate and spices; deep texture, the tannins fine-grained, cushioned by the acidity, of great length with a multi-faceted finish that makes you want to take another sip. Excellent." Vinum

"A red wine with a layered, velvety texture, showing blackberry and black olive character, plus some iodine and graphite. Full-bodied and rich with lots of fruit and chewy tannins." James Suckling

Deep dark velvety ruby red. Opulent bouquet of sour cherry, mulberry, some damp leaves and laurel. In addition, the typical Neri spice of wood, tobacco and broom. On the palate, an open-hearted fruit paired with the precision of a monumental Brunello frame, which, along with fine sweetness, keeps the balance with the taut acidic nerve and leads into an almost endless finish. A classy wine, the likes of which we rarely see in the glass. SUPERIORE.DE

"Seductive nose with a potpourri of fruity, floral and spicy notes, cinnamon and plums above all; accurately balanced acidity and tightly knit tannins on the palate, well-dosed mineral nuances, ends promisingly on notes of wild berries, leather and liquorice. Excellent Brunello that can even improve with maturity." Vinum

"Very noble nose, exotic perfumed woods, sandalwood, cigar box, lots of iodine and iron, cool pepper and juniper notes, blue berries; super fine grip on the palate, pressure without heaviness." Meiningers Sommelier

"Sparkling, intense ruby with a slight garnet shimmer. Complex and appealing nose, intense dark, ripe cherry, some plum, then also notes of slate and liquorice. Powerful and mighty on the palate, reveals itself with lots of dense tannin, interwoven, lots of present fruit, rich pressure on the final." Falstaff

"Deep luminous ruby-red. Spicy red cherry and mineral nuances on the nose and in the mouth. Enters fresh and juicy with noteworthy flesh and size to the red and blue fruit flavors, then suave and refined all the way onto the long refined finish. Closes with youthfully chewy tannins and a tactile mouthfeel offering hints of flinty minerals and raspberry. A brooding giant that is extremely elegant and refined. Very well done." VINOUS

"There’s a lot in this wine, in terms of complexity, that is all underpinned by concentrated, ripe and assertive red cherries. The oak is nicely placed and there’s a sense of purpose and build on the palate that really sets it apart. High-class tannins." James Suckling

"Youthful-looking mid ruby. Dark fruit with impressive depth and with a hint of gingerbread. Lovely, tangy dark-cherry fruit and loads of powdery tannins that are a little demanding right now. Needs much more age." Jancis Robinson

"This intense version is concentrated, with black cherry, blackberry, graphite, tobacco and spice flavors, yet remains light-footed due to the racy profile. Structured, yet beautifully balanced and youthful. Shows purity and length on the aftertaste, which introduces a floral component." Wine Spectator

"There are a handful of wines in Italy that make me nervous before I taste them because my expectations are so high. This is one of those wines. Indeed, previous editions of Cerretalto have earned the coveted 100 point score, and I am astutely aware of the pedigree and potential that comes forth with each new vintage. As enthusiastic as my assessment of the 2013 Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto is, I'm stopping short of that perfect score. This vintage is something of a moving target with wines that are beautiful, without a doubt, yet the growing conditions were not even across the appellation, and achieving optimal tannic management posed a challenge to many producers. If I were to make any criticism of this wine, it would fall along those lines. That aside, this is a beautiful Brunello that boasts deep intensity and bold black fruit flavors that are plummy and rich. Spice, toasted oak and tobacco frame that primary fruit. Cerretalto ages in oak for 30 months and that strong imprint has added to the structure, depth and contemporary character of this A-list Brunello. That oak imprint is also reinforced in the wine's tannins. There's no doubt that this wine needs more cellar aging. I would absolutely not suggest drinking it within the next five years. Any awkwardness it shows now should iron itself out with more bottle time." Wine Advocate

With the fruit-driven, round and almost perfect in all components 2015 vintage, the Riserva of Poggio di Sotto climbs new spheres. It is not only an enormously classic representative of the appellation, but it also presents that certain little bit more of all components, which makes it a very great wine and makes it stand out from the sea of very good 2015s. On the nose and palate, an inspiring potpourri of primary and secondary fruit. From cherry, crème de cassis, tar, liquorice and balsamic herbal spice to perfectly integrated tannin and a refined cedar component, we find everything here that makes a highly complex red. A classic that could not be more perfect. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, brightening ruby-garnet. Finely marked nose with distinct notes of ripe raspberries, juicy, fresh cherries and a hint of leather. Very impressive on the palate, fine, slightly grippy tannin in many layers characterises the wine, embedded in fine melting, ripe red berry fruit, firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"Extremely perfumed with black-cherry, plum and red-cherry aromas that follow through to a full body with very fine, pretty tannins that follow through to a flavorful finish. Pretty balance and refinement. All about finesse." James Suckling

"Poggio Di Sotto's 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is undeniably elegant and feminine, impressing with an alluring bouquet which mixes spiced black cherry with hints of sage, mint, dried roses and white smoke. It enters the palate soft, lifted and youthfully understated, cascading bright red fruits laced with minerals across a core of stimulating acids as nuanced tannins slowly build. An air of red currant, licorice and inner florals linger, as the 2015 Riserva flexes its structural muscle throughout the cheek-puckering finale. This will require quite a bit of cellaring to fill out and settle down, yet is sure to be worth the wait. I followed the 2015 Riserva over the course of four days and it never declined." Vinous

"There’s a leafy underbrush element to this red, punctuating the cherry, strawberry and earth flavors. Compact for now, yet balanced, with a taut, reserved finish. Offers tension and suppleness, with plenty in reserve." Wine Spectator

"The Poggio di Sotto 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva shows extra muscle definition, power and heady layers of rich fruit. This is all in line with the personality of the vintage, which was sunny and warm with golden sunlight throughout the summer season. This wine stands out for its fine-gained texture, which is smooth and polished. This Riserva offers aromas of cherry and blackberry and shows the depth that you should expect of a classic Riserva bottling." Wine Advocate

Deep ruby red, intense, fresh aroma of dark fruit underpinned with delicate toasted aromas. Complex and full-bodied on the palate, with balsamic notes, perfectly integrated tannins and a finely balanced fruity-spicy finish. An intense wine that also doesn't want to be a lightweight and that plays off its power perfectly. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Orma 2020 from the Moretti Cuseri family is half Merlot with 30% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Cabernet Franc. As usual, the Orma brings a fair amount of weight with it at 15% by volume, resulting in a massive, dark colour. Rich in smell and less liqueur-like than usual, the Orma 2020 has more freshness and also the fruit aromas seem clearer, underpinned with fresh herbs, pithy and berry-cherry oriented. Initially round and juicy-melting on the tongue, the powerful tannins then still seem a little raw, with glassy-steely structure." Weinwisser

"Bright ruby with a slight violet shimmer. Intense nose with notes of cloves, some mint, fine blackberry, slightly earthy components in the background. Spreads out great on the palate, has lots of fine-meshed, hearty tannin, nice juiciness, crisp fruit, long final." Falstaff

"The Orma 2020 is richly concentrated and midnight black in colour. It shows considerable intensity in terms of its inky aromas of wild plums, blackberry jam, dark spices and smoked tobacco. The wine coats the palate strongly and adds important textural richness. Best served with a wine of this depth and size with a classic bistecca alla fiorentina with T-bone." Wine Advocate

"Fragrances delicately, then increasingly beguiling of blueberries, maquis, with fine spice; the attack multi-faceted, the tannins youthful, though perfectly contoured, of great character and length to an opulent wild berry-pepper final." Vinum

"Fragrant and expressive on the nose, the floral and herbal scents mingle on the nose and transport you straight to Tuscany. Sublime and beautiful, a sensationally vibrant, lively, pure and pristine wine. The texture of the wine is so meticulous that the fruit flavours and mineral aspects have a joyful quality - a purity and precision. Detailed and refined. Impressive with fleshy but well-integrated tannins and a drive through to a long, fresh finish. Complexity and structure, very well balanced. A top choice and a great value!" Decanter

"Tobacco, sage and rosemary come through well, along with redcurrant and cassis. Full-bodied but polished, with a solid and dense mid-palate. It's tight on the finish at the moment, but it will open up nicely." James Suckling

Camarcanda is a rich Bolgheri Rosso Superiore with a dark bouquet of black fruits, espresso, chocolate, liquorice and tar. On the palate, it is decidedly full-bodied, with excellent depth, dense structure and firm body. Opulent and long, this wine already shows a wide range of its personality. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling ruby, rich to the rim. Intense and appealing nose, very clearly marked, lots of blueberries and dark currants, some blood orange, some liquorice in the background. Grippy, savoury tannin, a bit grippy at the core, lots of dark berry fruit, spreads out steadily, juicy and long." Falstaff

"Gentle and lifted. Hardly noticeable tannins, except for some very fine leather tannins at the very end. Very 21st century and polished. A real statement!" Jancis Robinson

"It may be due to Angelo's aura that the Ca' Marcanda often has something slightly "Barolo-like", but here the whole thing is framed by cassis and cabernet aromas, which then quickly transports you back to Gaja's outpost in Bolgheri. As well as being a little too toasty for me in the past, it's also regularly a little more floral. The 2019 in particular is immensely fragrant, drawing gorgeous blueberry and ripe raspberry notes, with liquorice and orange peel resonating behind. It's often grippy in the mouth too, with trenchant tannins, but is much more precise and juicy in the 2019 version than many a year before. Never liked it so much before." Weinwisser

"The 2019 Camarcanda is a very good example of how much the wines have changed here. Medium-bodied and with good depth, the 2019 Camarcanda is a tightly wound wine that needs a few more years to be at its best. Dark cherry, mocha, new leather, liquorice and spice build nicely, with lovely floral and mineral accents enlivening the finish. The 2019 is stylish, elegant and polished. Give it a couple of years as the tannins are quite intense today, but with air it will mellow nicely." Vinous

"This wine is almost viscous, but remains balanced and lively thanks to the lively acidity. It offers aromas of blackberries, dark plums and blueberries, framed by tar and toasted oak. The finish is both dense and clean, with hints of liquorice. Excellent length and potential." Wine Spectator

"A very nice young red wine with blackcurrant, fresh herbs and hints of cedar and smoke. It is full-bodied yet very polished and refined with a beautiful texture. Extremely long and graceful. Taste after 2025." James Suckling

"Ca' Marcanda is officially a Bolgheri DOC, not a Superiore, but it is handled as if it were a Superiore. The blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Cabernet Franc (there has been no Merlot since 2015) - a small percentage as whole grape - is aged for 18 months in oak (10% new). Volume and liveliness are the hallmarks of this 2019. The nose is super floral, with a graceful aroma of violets, subtle cassis, a smorgasbord of Mediterranean herbs, Bolgheri's signature eucalyptus leaf, and spicy chocolate and tobacco. The palate is full-bodied, with fine, crisp tannins and brilliant acidity. An enticing wine to wait for." Decanter

"This is a great vintage that continues to develop beautifully. Since my last tasting of the 2019 Bolgheri Rosso Camarcanda, I have increased my rating by one point to underline the great potential of this vintage. This wine could legally be a Bolgheri Superiore, but Angelo Gaja prefers not to use qualifying wine terms such as Superiore, Classico or Riserva in his various wine projects that span from Piedmont to Tuscany to Etna. Semantics aside, this is a great wine - certainly one of the best made at Ca' Marcanda - with impressive intensity and balance. Dark fruits and blackberries contrast with spices, tobacco, grilled rosemary and Mediterranean blackberries. The 2019 vintage was characterised by favourable weather conditions and "just the right amount of rain," Gaja said." Wine Advocate

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

"Brilliant ruby with a fine garnet shimmer. Clearly marked nose with notes of raspberry and fresh plums, some cloves and coriander seeds. Gripping, savoury tannin, shows good fullness, lots of pressure." Falstaff

"The grapes for Gaja's Conteisa all come from Cerequio. The nose reveals cherries, dried cherries and earthy tones with subtle mint and peony. The palate is dominated by cherry and strawberry with a hint of coffee. The wine is full, with ripe tannins of great quality and moderate acidity." Decanter

"The 2018 Barolo Conteisa from Gaja is elegant, graceful and noble through and through. Silky tannins and floral aromas give this medium-bodied Barolo plenty of charm. This is classic Cerequio. The notes of sweet red berries, pomegranate, cherry, blood orange and mint that are so typical of the La Morra site are beautifully brought out. All the elements are so beautifully balanced. I'm looking forward to seeing how the 2018 ages. The Gajas were particularly picky in 2018. Bottle production for Conteisa is down 50%." Vinous

"The fresh and ripe strawberry flavours come through very well here, along with some liquorice and floral notes. Medium to full body with fine, concentrated tannins that are vertical and bring the palate down through the wine. A solid and beautiful wine. Try it after 2025." James Suckling

"The Gaja 2018 Barolo Conteisa shows very nicely, with ripe aromas of plum, strawberry, grilled herb and chamomile flower. Give the wine time and it shows more herbal sensations and even a blast of mint that is characteristic of Cerequio, where the grapes are harvested." Wine Advocate

Ceretto's Barolo Bussia comes from one of the most famous cru sites bordering the municipalities of Monforte d'Alba and Barolo, sourcing its Nebbiolo fruit from a 7,000 square metre plot in Bussia Soprana in Monforte d'Alba. Just 3,500 1/1 bottles and 200 magnums are bottled.

Sparkling, bright garnet red colour. On the nose, it seduces with delicate notes of wild berries, white cherry, liquorice and truffle. The palate is explosive, lively and full of energy. Its rich and lively flavours of cranberry and pomegranate are very finely elaborated, its sweetness in the middle of the palate and the fine creaminess and fine-meshed tannin, which is characteristic of the best Bussia-Barolos, are impressive. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant medium ruby red colour. More concentration and depth with a clear, mineral core and concentrated but embryonic fruit. On the palate, a fantastic tannic centre with raspberry fruit wrapped in fine, firm tannins. Long and sensationally balanced." Jancis Robinson

"A fine and open Bussia with a smoky, grilled meat and spice character in the plum fruit. Medium to full body. Soft, velvety and juicy. This wine will develop into something very serious. Needs three or four years to open up. Best after 2025." James Suckling

"The Barolo Bussia 2019 is rich, deep and explosive, with all the profound, spicy and balsamic notes that are so typical of Bussia. Bussia is a broad, lush Barolo that is impressive from start to finish. All the elements are very well balanced. There is plenty of tannin, but it is well integrated into the wine. After some time in the glass, the wine reveals its inner perfume and explosive energy. This aromatically beguiling, multi-layered Barolo is magnificent." Vinous

"The Ceretto 2019 Barolo Bussia is an organic wine and a wine of beautiful depth and streamlined intensity. This Barolo offers aromas of dark fruit, but also of crushed stone, rust, a hint of exotic spices or grilled herbs and fresh liquorice root. The ensemble is beautiful, and what stands out most is the polished persistence and silky texture of the mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

"Bright ruby red colour with a delicately brightening rim. Expressive and clear nose of raspberries, cedar wood and some cold smoke, with a candied citrus fruit finish. Compact and tightly woven on the palate, with great tension and rich pressure, lots of salt, great length!" Falstaff

"The elegant nose opens with pristine cherry aromas supported by subtle notes of clove, anise, rosewood and tea. The focused palate continues to highlight ripe cherries and evolves into savory elements. Well-crafted tannins and crunchy acidity give the wine vigor and lift. The wine is generous, rich and superbly balanced." Wine Enthusiast

Superb - the Cerretalto 2012, a plant from a historical top location in the west of Montalcino. In the bouquet, spicy accents and aromas of soft sour cherries and blackberries give the scent. The impeccable taste impresses with its dynamic and weighty character, the dense tannin with good supporting effect, the respectable acidity and a first class finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"A rich, deep ruby with a garnet shimmer. Intense and complex nose, with dark cherries, violets, fresh, juicy plums, olive paste and dried tomatoes, very inviting. Rich, firm base on the palate, lots of warmth, dark, ripe fruit, dense tannin interwoven with sweet enamel, salty and long, for lying clean!" Falstaff

"The 2012 Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto offers a prolonged, flowing and carefully massaged drinking experience that drapes over the senses with some studied intensity and lots of intriguing complexity. This wine nails that perfect balance between power and elegance (that elusive exchange that so many winemakers hope to achieve) with effortless precision. Bold cherry fruit and spice are tightly woven together. In the mouth, the wine shows texture, depth and succulence. Generally speaking, this is not my favorite vintage in Montalcino, but this wine suddenly made me forget that thought." Wine Advocate

"Flavors of medicinal herbs, juniper, macerated cherry, plum, tobacco and spice are the hallmarks of this intense red. Ripe and concentrated, yet sleek and focused, with spice notes chiming in on the long, minerally and firmly tannic finish." Wine Spectator

"The density is so impressive in this great single-vineyard wine of Casanova. It's full yet agile at the same time. Shows such integrated tannins and fresh acidity at the finish. Energized and focused. Tangy and citrusy. Mineral undertone. One of the great Brunellos of 2012." James Suckling

Pianrosso comes from a south-west facing vineyard in the Castelnuovo dell'Abate subzone at an altitude of around 300 metres with mainly Galestro soils. It is dark, rich and deeply seductive, showing ripe black fruit enveloped in hints of gravel, sage and exotic spices. Although it has a velvety and almost creamy texture, it finds harmony through juicy acids and a blend of ripe black cherries and plums. Notes of liquorice and baker's chocolate balance the salty minerality and fine-grained tannins of the Pianrosso in a long and dramatic final. For a wine with such power, this is a beautiful symmetry. Definitely put it away for a few more years. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Cru is a selection of the best vines. Dark, spicy bouquet, extremely complex and multi-faceted, beguiling with fresh, ethereal, smoky and herbaceous notes reminiscent of Mediterranean herbs, with mineral, salty hints and floral nuances (rose petals, violet blossom), backed by redcurrant. Dense and powerful on the palate with a core of fresh, juicy fruit, very cleverly arranged, skilfully framed by fine, polished, almost sweetish tannins that linger on forever, very elegant, with dark, ethereal-balsamic spicy notes on the long final." Weinwisser

"Sparkling ruby colour with a bright garnet rim. Finely drawn, appealing nose with clear notes of rosehip, crisp cherries, some blood orange and clove. Opens on the palate with pithy, gripping tannins, flows calmly, with a lovely sweet mellowness on the finish, very good tension, savoury and long." Falstaff

"Sweet berries and cherries on the nose, along with fresh violet and lilac notes. Full-bodied with juicy tannins and a spicy finish that opens up on the palate. Lots of ripe cherry flavour. Also tar. A rich and multi-layered Pianrosso. One of the bigger, riper wines of the vintage." James Suckling

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Pianrosso tempts the imagination with a darkly alluring bouquet that keeps the taster at the edge of the glass as a cooling whiff of smoke gives way to dried flowers, cedar and exotic spice. It flows across the palate with textures of pure silk, finessed and graceful, with depths of intense red and black fruits that slowly saturate. The 2019 turns inward upon itself through the finish, tannic and long with notes of licorice and cacao bean. This is a serious rendition of Pianrosso that will require patience to enjoy fully. That said, it’s sure to be worth the wait." Vinous

"Pianrosso is a selection from the vineyard of the same name: 11 hectares in the lower south-east of Montalcino. The grapes were harvested between 11 September and 4 October 2019, which suggests a classic vintage. It shines with its earl grey tea aroma, combined with dark cherry, cinnamon, liquorice and a floral bouquet. The fruit character is very dark and precise; marvellous in this vintage. Full-bodied, dense and velvety with firm, long yet integrated acidity, it tapers off on the finish, but this is a sign of its elegance." Decanter

"The Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Pianrosso opens with a broad and all-encompassing bouquet of dried cherries or cherry pie with crust, plum cake and rose potpourri. There are obvious oak tones, but they fade into underbrush, grilled herbs and the generous texture of this wine. Even the 15% alcohol content disappears into the fleshy fruitiness of the wine. Certainly this is a wine that needs more bottle age to develop the suppleness and beautiful freshness of such an important Sangiovese." Wine Advocate

"A cornerstone of the typology, we are in the south-east region of the denomination, a stone's throw from Castelnuovo dell'Abate. Rich nose, notes of red mulberries, then rosemary and hints of Peranzana olives. The flavour is spicy, with a return of red mulberry and iodised nuances." Luca Gardini

Cherry-red Cabernet Sauvignon with a small proportion of Petit Verdot, the complex bouquet is reminiscent of blackcurrants; there are also mint flavours and floral notes, which are interwoven with the pleasantly balanced wood note. Powerful and dense on the palate; the fine-grained tannins are harmoniously integrated, with an impressive elegance and length on the final. SUPERIORE.DE

"A delightful nose of cigar box spices and smoked tobacco draws you into the glass, where the fragrant overtone continues. This finely meshed version offers notes of ripe red and blackcurrant with slightly chalky tannins and hints of olive, espresso and smoke. This seductive red wine is fresh, elegant and expressive." Wine Spectator

"The Alois Lageder 2019 Alto Adige Cabernet Sauvignon Cor Römigberg shows a very concentrated and rich fruit that gives the wine a heavy centre of gravity. This fruit density is accompanied by elevated flavours of sour cherry, Valentine's Day red rose and scented candle. All these elements are framed by a beautiful minerality. The tannins reveal a very dry quality that I liked less, but the flavours accurately reflect the cool alpine influences." Wine Advocate

"A complex wine full of darkness. On the nose are notes of leather, cocoa powder, bramble berries and a touch of bell peppers. There is stunning intensity. Full-bodied on the palate, with long, lifted and integrated acidity, velvety tannins and a chalky and slightly rustic finish." James Suckling

The star from Tenuta Sant'Antonio: A rich dark ruby red, its bouquet of wild fruits, black pepper, tobacco and spices is a delight for the nose. Fruity and full-bodied, yet velvety and very sophisticated in its character - an austere, characterful and elegant Amarone, whose terrificfinish is accompanied by noble tannins. SUPERIORE.DE

"It has distinct aromas of chocolate wheat and spiced plum crumble. Tart black fruits and balsamic freshness lurk in the mouth with streaks of tangy red fruits and dusty spices, supported by fine, grainy tannins. It's sweet and juicy and shows some chalky tautness on the palate, giving this big wine a desirable finesse." Decanter

"Ruby red with a tendency towards violet. The nose reveals clear notes of sour cherry, cherry, plum, blood orange and undergrowth, followed by floral notes of rose and violet. Gradually, spicy notes unfold. Full, juicy and fruity on the palate, with splendid tannins, finishing delicately bitter on the long finish." Falstaff

"The Tenuta Sant'Antonio Famiglia Castagnedi 2017 Amarone della Valpolicella Campo dei Gigli reveals a very savory character with dried fruit, lots of plum and spicy back notes that transition to tarry smoke and barbecue. The wine is full-bodied and slightly evolved due to the hot vintage conditions." Wine Advocate

"Thick and rather syrupy dried black fruits face a wall of black pepper and toasted oak on the nose, which turns to liquorice on the palate. Any subtler, more complex character waits for now for the youthful fruit and oak to clear the main stage. And that can take some time. Nevertheless, this wine is already very pleasant to drink and will give pleasure for many years to come." James Suckling

"The 2017 Amarone della Valpolicella Campo dei Gigli is intense, like opening an ash stone to reveal a wealth of dried black cherries, cinnamon sticks, incense and dried herbs. The texture is deep, with a balanced inner sweetness highlighted by vibrant acidity, while the depths of tart red fruits slowly saturate the palate with primary concentration. The 2017 finishes structured and dramatically long, making a case for further cellaring." Vinous

A monument of wine! Brilliant dark ruby colour. Fresh, silky, elegant - and majestic. Blackberry jam, violets, bittersweet chocolate, plus crushed rock and minerality. An opulent wine with fabulously polished tannins and considerable ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red colour, rich. Initially a nose of cinnamon sticks, ripe blackberries, dark chocolate, wild berry jam, precious wood, dried violet blossom, very complex. Very polished on the palate, with an oily, great texture, comes in many layers, concentrated and yet not opulent, finishing on fine coconut, will mature excellently, infinitely long." Falstaff

"Dark and dense, this reveals itself slowly, teasing fragrant accents of tarry smoke, graphite, coffee liqueur and warm spices before flavors of blackberry paste, plum cake, stemmy herbs and cocoa powder begin to unfurl. This is tightly meshed, with a core of grippy tannins creating a compact feel today. Give this some time in the cellar or extensive decanting to allow it to shine brightest." Wine Spectator

"The Amarone della Valpolicella Monte Lodoletta 2016 takes the intensity of the wine to an almost unimaginable level. This is the magic of this winery, and without a doubt this wine occupies a category that makes it completely unique in the Italian wine scale. In this classic vintage, the wine is even richer, more powerful and more concentrated. This overall intensity also carries over to the tightly wound and firm tannins. Black fruits, baked plums, tobacco, soya sauce, grilled herbs and sweet spices are generously embedded in the wine's full-bodied texture." Wine Advocate

"The 2016, which was released after the 2017 vintage because it was decided that this dense and concentrated vintage would benefit from more time in the bottle, is fuller and broader in the shoulders than the 2017 Amarone. It has more of everything - body, concentration, tannin, richness, spice... And although it has a reduced note of petrol, its flavours are still very lively, carrying hints of wild black fruits and balsam from the glass. Already tantalising, its future looks very bright." Decanter

"Turquoise-coloured in the glass, almost rimless. Aromas of cloves, coconut, graphite, dark, lush blackberries, plums and cherries. Full-bodied with great fruit concentration and a super dense and velvety palate. Extremely rich but balanced by crisp acidity and thick but dynamic and chewy tannins. Amazing finish of salted chocolate. A super-strong Amarone with grace." James Suckling

"The 2016 Amarone della Valpolicella is a sleeping giant, beckoning with dried violets, dusty blackcurrants, shaved cedar and a hint of mint. This wine is supple and cool to the touch, yet intense and savoury at its core, with an abundance of mineral-tinged dark red fruits and balsamic tones supported by a core of zesty acidity. The 2016 finishes tannic and long, gripping the palate firmly and leaving a bitter primary concentration that lingers. This wine is still a baby today and needs good cellaring, but its potential is obvious." Vinous

Barolo Castiglione is produced from a large number of parcels throughout the Barolo zone, many of which are of such high quality that they could be bottled separately. The 2019 vintage is beautiful in the way it combines the vibrancy of the year with a soft, inviting textural presence. Fresh cut flowers, mint, sweet spices, aniseed and red berries are beautifully interwoven in the glass. As the wine progresses, it shines with exquisite finesse, floral aromas and an exquisite overall balance. Ripe, silky tannins support the impressive finish. The 2019 version gives a first impression of how great this vintage is at Vietti. This is first-class stuff. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with garnet colour. Medium expression on the nose, fine earthy notes, sealing wax, ripe raspberries and cranberries, precious wood, fine floral aftertaste. Powerful on the palate, with tightly woven tannins and a clearly defined fruit core, currently still young with a delicate broad texture, earthy tones on the final." Falstaff

"Truly a classic example of the historic Barolo blend, this wine opens with a basket full of dark-hued fruits supported by more subtle elements of forest floor, truffle, dried wildflowers and wild herbs. The giving palate shows that young Nebbiolo is not just destined to rest in the cellar as plump cherries, layers of spice and supple tannins define the palate, finishing with refreshing acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"The Barolo Castiglione 2019 is elegant, translucent and refined. Crushed red berries, orange peel, mint and cinnamon adorn this elegant, wonderfully nuanced Barolo from Vietti. I particularly admire the energy here. In many vintages, the Castiglione is easy and accessible, but I think the 2019 needs a few more years to come into its own. I particularly admire its focus and polish." Vinous

"Extremely fragrant of hibiscus, flowers and watermelon with some fresh cherries. Medium-bodied with chewy, polished tannins and a fresh and lively finish. Very solid. Made from about 20 different vineyards. Needs time to mellow." James Suckling

"The Barolo Castiglione 2019 is a complex and generous wine that reflects the main characteristics of this very successful vintage. As this wine does not come from a single vineyard, it speaks more to the quality of the vintage than to a specific vineyard. The Castiglione shows generous richness and concentrated cherry fruit with dark saturation and good structure, which comes from the thicker skins that the Nebbiolo grapes developed this year. It finishes with a salty mineral note that gives it focus and elegance." Wine Advocate

Here, excellence of man and nature come together with perfect precision and harmony. Powerful cherry and blackberry notes are followed by crushed minerals, liquorice, smoke and lightly scented cedar. Spreads evenly across the palate and its flavour intensity, power and volume last for minutes. The exquisite 2015 Cerretalto is concentrated and rich, but never too heavy or dense. It is a highly compelling Italian icon with the truly exciting world of perceived unlimited possibilities still ahead of it. We can be more than excited ... SUPERIORE.DE

"Shiny, rich ruby garnet. Opens with light spicy notes, some cardamom seeds, then lots of crisp, dark cherry, mulberry, light truffle note in the background. Fans out broadly on the palate, lots of ripe, juicy fruit, opens up on the back end with tight, precise tannin, exceedingly long, savoury and gripping, a definite long runner!" Vinous

"The 2015 Casanova di Neri Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto is remarkably fresh and balanced despite its large-scale persona. Minty herbs give way to raspberry and cherry with exotic spices and a hint of pine resin. It boasts depths of silky textures; yet it remains juicy and full of energy, displaying ripe red and black fruits, laced with salty minerals, as hints of cinnamon and baker's chocolate form toward the close. Fine tannins come forward on the finish, tugging at the cheeks, yet all under an air of sweet spice and violet florals. As young as this is today, it's hard to put the glass down, and I can only imagine the depths that will be revealed with five or more years of cellaring." Vinous

"Wild rosemary, thyme and juniper aromas and flavors frame the core of black cherry in this supple red. Firmly built, shows refined tannins embraced by the bright fruit. Very expressive and approachable now, yet should continue to improve." Wine Spectator

"Of these new releases from this benchmark estate, the Casanova di Neri 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto is my favorite wine. This Riserva is larger than life with ripe fruit, raspberry, cherry, spice, cola, root beer, mesquite and cedar. The wine offers a flashy and generous quality of fruit that unfolds over time with a multifaceted and multi-layered presentation. One thing that stands out here is the acidity that is bracing and tart at first but then succumbs to an important supporting role, rendering lasting freshness and persistence to the finish. With time, you get a flash of cherry and crème de cassis that seals the deal." Wine Advocate

"This is a momentous wine with incredible power and structure that has so much minerality and crushed-stone character to the black cherries and blueberries. Full-bodied and tannic, yet the tannins are layered and polished with a glorious, creamy and juicy texture that coats your mouth. It goes on for minutes. Incredible wine." James Suckling

The Frappato Vino di Contrada FL (from Contrada Fossa di Lupo) shows a slightly looser texture than the other two Contrada wines that have been part of Arianna Occhipinti's portfolio for 4 vintages. The Contrada Fossa di Lupo provides much of the fruit used for the entire Occhipinti line. It consists of sandy limestone with red and dark brown clay veins. The wine shows aromas of red fruits, including plums and blackberries. Slight hints of exotic spices only emerge after the Frappato has had time to really unpack in the glass. This wine is perhaps the most open of the three. Only 2,700 bottles were produced. SUPERIORE.DE

"A dark, rich expression with earthy red and black cherry flavours and a bright, stony palate with intensely tart wild red fruits. It has a pronounced spiciness and sharpness that seems to come from the yeasts, leading to a dry finish with juicy cherry and strawberry notes." Decanter

"The Frappato Vino di Contrada FL 2020 has a more delicate style with aromas of wild roses and flowers that rise delicately from the glass. Behind this are earthy tones, baked aubergine skin and slight hints of roasted fennel seeds. On the palate, the wine is tart and fresh, with equally macerated flavours. This wine is the somewhat wilder of the three Contrada wines in the series. The fruit comes from the Contrada Fossa di Lupo, with reddish and dark brown soils." Wine Advocate

The Frappato Vino di Contrada PT (with fruit from the Contrada Pettineo) is a shade lower in colour intensity than the BB. This wine is similar to the FL in terms of accessibility and the very silky and delicate nature of its fruit. Arianna Occhipinti has achieved something marvellous for our collective understanding of the Frappato grape with the fermentation of these contrasting wines. Pettineo has sandy soils, and the Alberello vines (later converted to trellises) are over 60 years old. It is definitely on the right track, as you get a better understanding of the range of the grape variety. This expression shows bright freshness, wild berries, wild roses and hints of sweet almonds. Around 2,700 bottles were produced. SUPERIORE.DE

"It's the finest and most perfumed of the three contrada wines, offering hedgerow berries and lovely florality. Intense, vibrant red fruits and juicy acidity combine on the textured, airy, vertical palate, with some hints of dried cherry on the long, sapid finish. Delicious!" Decanter

"The Frappato Vino di Contrada PT 2020 (from old vines of Contrada Pettineo) has a unique bouquet that stands out from the other wines in this series, especially in this warm and sunny vintage. There is a hint of purple plum, but the aromas are mainly focused on red fruit flavours with cassis and fresh cherries. I love the lively, powerful approach of this vibrant wine. It feels very lively." Wine Advocate

The Frappato Vino di Contrada BB from the single vineyard Bombolieri is the darkest and most saturated of the three Frappato wines. This vineyard lies high on a promontory with white limestone soils. The expression is open and accessible like the other wines, but in this wine there is an added layer of earth or potting soil to the bright red and black fruits one perceives on the nose. This wine also seems to have extra layering and textural richness. All this fruit is topped with a fresh acidity that plays a big role and makes this wine a nice partner for creamy fettuccine. Only 2,400 bottles were produced. SUPERIORE.DE

"It has some flinty reduction at this early phase in its life, hinting at milk chocolate, black cherry and earthy red fruit aromas. In the mouth it's grippy, broad and juicy, offering dark hedgerow berry flavours with a depth of warm soil, cardamom and peppery spice." Decanter

"The Frappato Vino di Contrada BB 2020 has a slightly richer colour with aromas of dark fruits such as black cherry and fresh plums. I like the impeccable balance of the BB (from Contrada Bombolieri with sandy soils and stones)." Wine Advocate

After many years of identifying the best Merlot, Cabernet and Petit Verdot parcels within the boundaries of their Bolgheri estate with the support of the famous OenologistMichel Rolland, the Antinori family discovered in the early 2000s that in the midst of this microclimate and terroir there was an even more special small vineyard whose results once again surpassed those of the larger area. It was immediately clear to all involved that this unique character had to be vinified and highlighted separately - this was the birth of today's cult wine Lodovico.

Ripe, dark fruits on the nose. Highly complex on the palate, with a depth and tannin structure that impressively reflect the age of the vines, plus a freshness and acidity framework that flanks the berry potpourri in a balanced way and, together with the ultra-fine tannin, leads into a long, firm finish. A multi-layered red with a strong character and the necessary storm and stress for the winner's podium. SUPERIORE.DE

"This vintage offers a distinctive note of crushed granite and pencil shavings not found in the others. Compared to those, this vintage is almost salty in taste. All in all, I think the 2013 vintage is going through a slower evolution and we just have to give it time. The tannins are dry, but they serve as sufficient glue to bind the many moving parts of the wine together. It needs time to settle down and develop." Wine Advocate

"The 2013 Lodovico seems to point to a different style from the one first favoured by Lodovico Antinori at Tenuta di Biserno. The wine's translucent colour, distinct aromatics and medium-weight structure are a clear departure from the past. The 2013 is wonderfully airy, fragrant and expressive and has so much to offer. Blood orange, mint, sweet spices and raspberry jam lead into the silky, medium weight finish of this extremely elegant wine." Vinous

"This rich and fruity red wine has a beautiful character of currants, berries and chocolate. Full and velvety." James Suckling

"Overripe, lush and complex, this wine focuses on aromas and flavours of blackcurrant, blackberry, Tuscan scrub, iron, tobacco and spice. The tannins are muscular but not overbearing, and the lively acidity provides energy and concentration. Excellent length." Wine Spectator

"Vigna Rionda Riserva is for us every year the Barolo from Serralunga at the peak of its potential. It is the wine we are most proud of. Vigna Rionda, protagonist of the history of our winery, is one of the most sought-after and prestigious cru sites in the entire Barolo area. We are not just talking about microclimate and soil here: Something very special happens on this hill in Serralunga d'Alba, and this something gives the Vigna Rionda Riserva its life and makes it a truly unique wine." Franco Massolino

Barolo Riserva Vigna Rionda is absolutely breathtaking. Deep and monumental in attitude, it captivates all the senses - from start to finish. A whole range of Rionda aromas flow from the glass. Silky yet powerful, graceful yet full of seriousness, the wine captures all the contrasts that make an exceptional Barolo. Rose petals, lavender, red and violet fruits, spices and new leather give this hypnotic Barolo from Massolino its very typical and unmistakable nuances. A great wine! SUPERIORE.DE

"Just medium ruby red. Powerful, concentrated, complex nose that immediately draws you in. Notes of black pepper and a hint of gingerbread, reflecting the warm vintage, but with real verve. Full-bodied on the palate, sweet and tart cherry. Lots of generous but not sweet fruit, contrasted by finely chiselled, polished tannins. It's ripe now but will hold up. Will seduce many." Jancis Robinson

"Notes of wild strawberries and sour cherries with dried flowers and orange chocolate in the background. Medium to full-bodied, very polished and fine-grained, with subtle red fruit notes and a mineral backbone. Even and balanced with a structured finish." James Suckling

"The nose is impressively fresh and lively, with a mix of white pepper, watermelon, wild strawberry and mint leaf. Less restrained than usual on the palate, it is firm, still young and chewy, with brilliant, long acidity and a cherry pit finish. It deserves time to develop more complexity." Decanter

"This is a great wine and although it could do with more years of ageing, there is nothing wrong with enjoying it in the near or medium future. The 2017 Barolo Riserva Vigna Rionda is packed with dark fruit, but it also shows delicate spice with black liquorice and rusty metal. The intensity of the wine and its mouthfeel are great." Wine Advocate

"The 2017 Barolo Riserva Vigna Rionda is simply stunning. The purest essence of Rionda comes through in a captivating Barolo that astounds. Sweet red cherry fruit, kirsch, rose petals, liquorice and blood orange are just some of the many aromas and flavours that rise from the glass. Exotic and racy, the 2017 is a real head-turner." Vinous

"Bright ruby red with a shiny core. Elegant nose, also of red-cheeked apple, minimal hint of peach, then raspberries, cranberries, in the reverberation a hint of precious wood and sealing wax. Tense on the palate, builds slowly, with compact tannin and clear fruit, seems very deep, finishes with salt and great juiciness, very long." Falstaff

Of all his wines, the flagship Tenuta di Trinoro offers the deepest insight into Andrea Franchetti's viticulture. Andrea changes the proprietary blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot from limestone and clay soils every year depending on the quality and quantity of the harvest. The grapes are always the best of the vintage. Franchetti's own style is recognisable in each of his wines and with each vintage. The 2020 vintage was the first to be given an additional year of bottle ageing before being released for sale.

This dark, full and concentrated red wine already shows a good deal of its potential on the nose and the ripe, fruit-driven appeal that has characterised it for years and helped it achieve world fame. On the palate, the flavours range from deep, dark fruit to spices, mahogany and grilled herbs. The texture is tapered, well-proportioned and ethereal. The fruity verve and the opulent concert of flavours are guided by highly elegant tannins into an almost endless finish. Monumental, but not a monster. Powerful, but not a muscleman - everything is in the right place here. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Tenuta di Trinoro 2020 is sensual and racy, but also not as opulent as it could be. That's not necessarily a bad thing. Sweet floral, spicy and savoury top notes meld with a core of dark fruit. Overall, the 2020 comes across as a smaller, slightly leaner Tenuta that will probably drink well early on as the flavours are still developing. Pretty floral and spicy notes lift the finish nicely. This is a classy Tenuta." Vinous

"Balsamic, ripe and fresh, with a beautiful abundance of black berries and black cherries, with notes of cream, cocoa, wood, spices and cola. It is very structured and already complex, showing a slightly fresher character than the 2019, with a delicious juiciness on the mid-palate and crisp acidity. It has the potential to become a great Trinoro in the future." Decanter

"On the nose, rich, sweet aromas of cherries and figs draw balance from sharper undertones of graphite, fennel, orange peel and clove. A smear of marmalade across the palate underscores the fruitiness, which stays bright and juicy through the finish, but a dark chocolate undertone provides gravitas." Wine Enthusiast

"So fragrant of violets and lavender with some blackcurrant. Medium to full-bodied with lustre and finesse. Racy and fine. Finesse with verve. Very elegant and straightforward with a racy texture. Very long and slightly angular." James Suckling

"The 2020 vintage is certainly more open, but offers a very special view of Cabernet Franc in particular. The lush softness of the black cherry of the Merlot is magically combined with the dark intensity and tannic power of the Cabernet Franc. The ripeness of the fruit is impeccable, there are neither green tones nor overripe nuances. Everything is balanced." Wine Advocate

"The initial shyness develops into youthful bravado after a little aeration; the nose is dominated by Cabernet Franc with its berry and plum aromas, undergrowth, notes of fresh flowers and spices; then the attack is powerful, the tannins are extremely velvety and fine-grained, the finish is long and full of elegance despite all the power. Needs to mature." Vinum

"Dark ruby red with violet. Initially fine stony notes on the nose, precious wood, incense, then dark berry fruit, cassis, fine mint on the finish. Densely woven on the palate, creamy, oily, with notes of ripe raspberries, comes in many layers, savoury, great juiciness, firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"One of the mythological products of national viticulture, a Bordeaux with a predominance of Cabernet Franc, then Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and a small percentage of Petit Verdot. Redcurrant on the nose, a hint of laurel and liquorice powder, salty and acidic tannins, incredible persistence." Luca Gardini

Hardly any Brunello is as authentic as the growths from Le Potazzine - they reveal the whole truth of the Sangiovese grape. The result is neither completely polished, nor is it even boring or predictable. The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino achieves a level of extreme authenticity and originality not found on every corner in the appellation. It is a wine full of understatement and equally great personality, for which one must take time and leisure to discover every last nuance. On the nose, it reveals a subtle and well-composed bouquet of red roses, spices, earth and wild mushrooms. In addition, as always with Le Potazzine, there is a wild touch of rusticity. In the mouth, this Brunello shows its powerful fruit and perfectly integrated tannins. Like a friend you can rely on, this Brunello is both a role model and a lovable buddy. SUPERIORE.DE

"Elegant ruby red. On the nose of sweet, ripe raspberries, lush cherries and dried rose petal, reverberating with cedar and a hint of white chocolate. Supple on the palate with tightly woven tannin, very juicy, opens with clear fruit and great acidity, with supple pressure, elegant." Falstaff

"Very harmonious, ripe aroma, raw meat, small red fruit, cranberry, fine ethereal spice, Original Beans cocoa, sturdy, balanced, wonderful melting bitter chocolate tannin, timeless." Meiningers Sommelier

"Owned by Gigliola Giannetti and her daughters Viola and Sofia, the estate is comprised of two vineyards: near the town of Montalcino, Le Prata rises over 500 metres, while the slightly lower site of La Torre is located in Sant’Angelo in Colle. Le Potazzine’s Brunello takes time to come into focus, but when it does a cascade of brambly forest berries, anise, cinnamon, tea and incense waft from the glass. There's a plushness to the fruit and a crisp youthfulness. Chalky tannins cling elegantly to the edges." Decanter

"This is a cooler style of Brunello with blueberries, black cherries, crushed stones and lavender. It’s full-bodied with firm, tight tannins. Yet, it opens at the end to pinpointed fruit and tannins. Give this time to soften." James Suckling

"The remarkably pretty 2016 Brunello di Montalcino shows a pure bouquet full of wild strawberries, woodland berries and herbs with a hint of crushed stone. It’s soft and enveloping, displaying fleshy red fruits, savory spice and salty minerals, while vibrant acids maintain wonderful freshness. It’s only at the very end that its youthful structure comes forward, grippy and classically drying, yet under an air of red licorice and inner rose. There’s a beautiful harmony to this vintage of Le Potazzine, which should provide a long and wide drinking window." Vinous

"Black cherry, black currant and plum flavors are front and center in this supple red, with accents of earth, iron, leather and tobacco chiming in as the tannins flex their muscles on the long finish. Everything is there, this just needs to integrate." Wine Spectator

"Le Potazzine always delivers a smooth and silky style with extreme elegance and the lifted cool-climate fruit that you get from this high-altitude growing site. The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino is taut and firm with cherry fruit, dried raspberry, tilled earth, spice and blue flower. The wine sees an extended fermentation of 40 days and ages in botte grande for 42 months. This is a well-balanced wine that is slightly thinner, with one notch lower intensity in this vintage compared to past editions. You get a light, sharp and streamlined style." Wine Advocate

"Earthy aromas of blue flower, rose, underbrush and leather mingle together on this gorgeous, fragrant red. All about finesse and flavor, the medium-bodied palate is absolutely delicious, featuring juicy morello cherry, crushed raspberry, baking spice, star anise and the barest hint of game. It's radiant and beautifully balanced thanks to taut, polished tannins and bright acidity. It's already showing incredibly well but hold for even more complexity." Wine Enthusiast