The Wine Advocate

Muscular Nero d'Avola, deep dark red in colour, rich in extract and powerful with aromas of dried fruit, raspberries, beetroot and blackcurrants. A juicy Sicilian from natural cultivation that enchants us with its great personality and beguiling finesse. SUPERIORE.DE

"The scent of wild hedgerow berries leads to a softly structured, flavoursome palate that mirrors the nose and shows good intensity of red and black berries. Polished and well balanced, it is an elegant interpretation of Nero d'Avola." Decanter

"The organic Nero d'Avola Siccagno 2020 offers a lovely blend of cherry, dark fruit and a hint of clove. The wine shows notes of cola, black olives and baked plums in the background. There is plenty of fruit in this wine, leading to a bold, vibrant style. It is fluid in personality, but also lean in texture." Wine Advocate

"A very attractive Nero d'Avola with crushed black berries and bright citrus acidity with hints of fruit, black tea and dark mushrooms. Medium-bodied with fine tannins and tangy acidity on the finish. Drink or store." James Suckling

"The 2020 Nero d'Avola Siccagno captivates with an earth-inspired bouquet that blends crushed ashen stones with sage and smoke before giving way to crushed wild blueberries. It’s silky and refined, with a sleek wave of ripe red and blue fruits carried across a core of zesty acidity. A saline tinge adds a savory edge toward the close. The 2020 finishes lightly structured, long and with immaculate balance, leaving a coating of primary concentration, hints of citrus and inner florals. While already a total pleasure aromatically and on the palate, I expect the 2020 Siccagno will blossom beautifully over the next five to ten years in a cold cellar. This is stunning." Vinous

The grapes for Gaglioles Riserva come from vineyards in Panzano that used to belong to Le Cinciole and neighbouring Gagliole. Dark and full-bodied in the glass, it shows the full range of the Conca d'Oro area of Panzano, but does so in a pleasantly restrained style that is typical of the elegant 2019. Currently still very young, in a few years it will be much more enjoyable. SUPERIORE.DE

"Harmony and depth in this version that bears the ancient name of this beautiful farm. Complex nose, blackberries and blueberries together with mentholated touches and floral nuances, of carnation, dense and taut mouth, savory tannins, juicy finish, with mentholated-floral return." Luca Gardini

"Beautiful aromas of roses and other flowers, together with fresh cherries and lemon rind, following through to a medium body with freshness and vivid intensity to the finish. Spicy at the end." James Suckling

"Only in its second vintage, the certified organic Gagliole 2019 Chianti Classico Riserva addresses the need for a category that sits between the entry-level reds and the high-end Gran Selezione wines. Fruit is sourced exclusively from Panzano for an intense ruby color shaded by elegant darkness. Aromas recall blackberry, graphite, flint and white pepper. This wine prizes freshness, a streamlined mouthfeel and those pretty mineral notes that drive a very long and polished finish." Wine Advocate

The name Deimassi comes from the large stone blocks that make up the terrace wall that supports the vineyard. These were dug out of the ground during the preparatory work for the planting in 2008. The large stones and the friable clay still mark this small parcel of land, originally intended for the production of Brunello di Montalcino, the results of which are now being marketed without the longer ageing period prescribed for Brunello.

Spicy, enveloping and mineral aromas characterise this powerful and rich Sangiovese. In the drink, a great tannic balance with a beautiful fruit core, precise and firm as it goes on. A very harmonious and characterful "little Brunello"." SUPERIORE.DE

"Lustrous mid ruby. Brooding and complex but less open than Gauggiole, but with aeration there is this floral lift. Gorgeous richness of fruit and at the same time light on its feet. Gorgeous tannins to bite into." Jancis Robinson

"The 2020 Rosso di Montalcino dei Massi is woodsy with nuances of flowery underbrush and giving way to crushed wild berries and grilled herbs. It’s deeply textural, silky in feel, with polished red fruits and inner spice. A coating of fine tannins frames the wine well, as the 2020 leaves notes of currant with mineral underpinnings that linger long. The dei Massi vineyard was planted in 2008 for Brunello production, yet the expression of the vines in this location has provided fruit that is better suited to creating a characterful Rosso." Vinous

"From a stony vineyard with friable clay, this Rosso has the attitude of a Brunello thanks to its bolder character and barrel ageing. 'I wanted to bottle it faster than Brunello regulations allow. What’s the way to do that? Rosso di Montalcino,' explained winemaker, Cecilia Leoneschi. Compared to the estate's other two Rosso bottlings, Deimassi has a more open nose of red and black hedgerow berries. Bigger, bolder and with pronounced acidity, it features delicious fleshy black and red fruit flavours paired with a moreish tightness, balsamic flecks and grippy structure. Well balanced." Decanter

"Here's a second discovery from Castiglion del Bosco. The 2020 Rosso di Montalcino Deimassi is slightly darker in appearance next to its sister, Gauggiole. That added saturation translates to both the bouquet and the palate. The wine delivers bold cherry, redcurrant and citrusy blood orange. A dusting of white pepper also comes through here. It shows medium fruit weight with more tannic structure at the back. Named after rocky "masses" found inside the vineyard, Deimassi is a 1.5-hectare site with rocky clay soils." Wine Advocate

Medium ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Deep, concentrated bouquet with some lift and brooding intensity. Concentrated and long, but convincingly balanced by an integrated acidity and a rich layer of sandy tannins. Good potential, even if it can be enjoyed now. SUPERIORE.DE

"Very pale ruby in the glass, with mushroom earthiness, straw, strawberry, cinnamon and a meaty touch. This fierce character is supported by a very savoury attack, with delicate acid, polished and vibrant tannins: a large palate and a lot of details. There is great balance despite a bit of austerity on the finish. Super-classic for ageing." Decanter

"Fresh and crunchy with red fruit, dried herbs, potpourri and moist earth. Medium- to full-bodied with firm tannins, that are ripe and velvety. Dry and a little chewy at the end with attractive fruit coming through." James Suckling

"Packaged with a black label and eye-catching lettering in red, the Fontanabianca 2020 Barbaresco Serraboella reveals a very fine, almost dusty personality with wild berry, crushed rose and wet river stone. The wine is beautifully balanced, with dry tannins presented next to delicately sweet berry fruit. The Serraboella shows the careful winemaking practiced at this estate. Only 4,000 bottles were made." Wine Advocate

"Reserved yet somewhat haunting on the nose, this wine presents pristine dark-berried fruit aromas, dried rose and savory spices. Warmed and macerated black cherry shines on the palate, accompanied by mouthwatering acidity and a solid earthy bass note with firm, yet fine tannins. This wine is meant to be savored." Wine Enthusiast

Livio Felluga's new crus are the result of massalselection. Selected vines in particularly favourable locations are reproduced in order to renew vineyards with particularly high-quality vines and further improve the quality of individual varietal wines.

Named after the Curubella vineyard, this Pinot Grigio expresses the unique and very expressive terroir in a very special way. Golden yellow with copper-coloured reflections, the result of a long maceration period. Autumnal notes of medlar, jasmine and white pepper on the nose, rounded off with elderberry, marjoram, melon and orange zest. Powerful and expressive on the firm palate with candied fruit, spice and floral elements. Traces of acacia honey and biscuits on the long finish. Complex and deep with a very clear personality, freshness and beautiful minerality. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Livio Felluga 2020 Friuli Colli Orientali Pinot Grigio Curubella is a fascinating wine that reveals a slightly pink or copperish hue (called "ramato" in Italian) that comes thanks to some minimal skin contact. That pretty intensity translates to both the bouquet and the mouthfeel of this special wine that is aged in vessels made with a composite of cement known as cocciopesto. Sweet peach, grapefruit and spicy saffron emerge, and the wine is broad and even a touch sweet. It also offers drying mineral tones in contrast." Wine Advocate

"Flavoured with candied mandarins and peach peel as well as dried herbs and a hint of cream. Medium to full-bodied. On the palate, it is very full-bodied and long-lasting and very balanced. It is polished and even with a balanced acidity and a somewhat firm, phenolic backbone. Exciting and nervous, but also very elegant." James Suckling

Warm, rich golden yellow colour. A rich bouquet of pretty white and yellow flowers, layers of apricot, pear and melon. On the palate, a rich texture, a certain opulence and beautiful intensity, with hints of spices and almonds, all framed by a virile acidity that leads this work of art into a long, furious finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, pale straw yellow colour. Opens fresh on the nose on grapefruit and freshly cut grass, then warmer on pineapple and passion fruit, a hint of brioche. Silky attack, rolls over the palate with gentle pressure, concentrated fruit, harmonious into the long, juicy finish." Falstaff

"A seductive bouquet of honey blossom, almond custard, lemon curd and chamomile makes the 2022 Chardonnay Vie di Romans impossible to ignore. This wine is very structured, almost oily and heavy in flavour, but still perfectly refined, with a salty mineral note in the foreground that balances the core of ripe fruit well. The 2022 cleanses beautifully, with a concentration of citrus and a hint of tropical melon that lingers incredibly long, while a touch of residual acidity maintains a lovely freshness. This is a fantastic achievement." Vinous

"The 2022 Friuli Isonzo Chardonnay Vie di Romans is a generous white with plenty of fruit weight. Pronounced flavours of ripe peach and fruit steal the show, but there are also sweet notes of calla lily and hibiscus. There is even a spicy hint of lavender, but the wine finishes with a distinctly sweet flavour. Both testify to the hot growing season of 2022." Wine Advocate

Elena Fucci's exceptional Titolo wine is built for the long haul. It will continue its steady development for at least the next 20 years, which is why it is particularly enjoyable when aged in magnum format. Dark ruby red in colour, the bouquet has aromas of ripe red fruit and a fine woody spice. The wine is assembled with enormous precision, offering a balanced intensity and a beautiful degree of fruit purity that speaks both in favour of the Aglianico grape and the extreme region that produces it. Titolo impresses with its fine texture and elegantly integrated tannins. This is the kind of masterful Aglianico performance we love. SUPERIORE.DE

"The nose is primarily savory, with aromas of balsamic, mushrooms, earth and stone, but medicinal undertones and a drizzle of black-cherry syrup provide nuance. The palate also skews savory at first, but lingering notes of cherry and herbs eventually take center stage. Aggressive acid hurls spicy punches at the dusty tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"The Aglianico del Vulture Classico Titolo 2021 is unmissable with a classic bouquet that blends tart black fruit and citrus notes with exotic spices, incense and ash stone. Seamless and silky to the touch, it is elegant through and through. Crisp red and black berries combine with a mixture of mineral notes and piquant acidity. The tannins only become noticeable on the finish, which is crisp and angular, yet retains a perfect freshness. The 2021 rejuvenates with nuances of liquorice and sage. This racy version of the Titolo impresses on so many levels." Vinous

"The 2021 Aglianico del Vulture Titolo is indeed a classic Elena Fucci and the wine you should buy if you love her distinctive style. It opens with sweet flavours that come from the velvety ripeness of the fruit, but also from the careful ageing in oak. Baked plums, rum cake and dried fruit mingle with honey granules on the nose. The finish of the Titolo is very long and is characterised by an acidic freshness and the grippy tannins typical of this grape variety. In this case, the tannins are not too dry and there is enough power to drive future development in the bottle." Wine Advocate

"An exceptional terroir, from 50-70 year old vines, in one of its favourite cradles, the volcanic soil of Barile. The Titolo is a masterpiece: tension, citrus fruit, pomegranate and a sometimes iodised finish. In the mouth, it is vertical, savoury, with great elegance and depth." Luca Gardini

Chianti Classico Riserva Castello di Volpaia is a dark, powerful wine. Black cherry, smoke, liquorice, incense, mocha, menthol, lavender and leather give this virile, brooding Riserva plenty of character. The palate is very aromatic with sweet red cherries, cedar wood and nuances of blood orange, yet very powerful and multi-layered with terrific depth and structure. A dream for Sangiovese lovers. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant ruby red colour with delicate rim brightening. Magnificent, complex nose, lots of small red berries, raspberry and wild strawberry, violets, subtly leathery. Elegant and very juicy on the palate, beautiful tension to peppery-spicy notes, ripe cherry fruit, vibrant acidity on the finish, powerful tannins in the background." Falstaff

"The 2020 Chianti Classico Riserva is terrific. Macerated dark cherry, spice, leather, tobacco, dried flowers and underbrush are some of the many notes that grace this super-expressive Riserva. The 2020 is a touch somber, but that only adds to its considerable allure." Vinous

"In the bottle with the black label, the organic 2020 Chianti Classico Riserva offers ripe fruit with measured intensity that never feels heavy or overdone. Achieving this level of balance is not easy in a hot growing season such as this. This wine is characterized by an especially linear and direct personality that pushes it over the palate with good momentum." Wine Advocate

"Attractive aromas of ripe cherries, dried strawberries, dried orange peel, spices and crushed stones, following through to a medium to full body with compact tannins that are firm and finely grained. Smooth and textured with vivid fruit underneath and a lingering finish." James Suckling

Barbera d'Alba Superiore Fides from the famous Mosconi vineyard offers a very nuanced bouquet characterised by blackberry, black cherry, cassis and plum on the one hand and pronounced mineral notes on the other. Fides offers a dark concentration and a soft, intense texture. Lavender, mint and sweet floral notes give it additional vigour and make it one of the best single-vineyard Barberas in Piedmont every year. SUPERIORE.DE

"Fruit for this wine is sourced from an excellent site in Monforte d'Alba. The Pio Cesare 2021 Barbera d'Alba Superiore Vigna Mosconi Fides is dark in color and rich and concentration. The wine offers a soft texture with plenty of dark fruit and blackberry. Those bleed nicely into sweet spice and light toast over a full-bodied finish." Wine Advocate

This Sangiovese rarity, bottled without the addition of sulphites, is only produced in the best vintages and matures for 16 months in cocciopesto, a container made from ground brick, fine stone, sand and natural fibre binder. This mixture can then be moulded into containers that are watertight but still allow micro-oxygenation. The real peculiarity of Cocciopesto wine containers lies in the material itself, which is characterised by a high thermal inertia and a certain permeability that makes it ideal for all phases, from vinification to ageing.

Compact colour, fruity, slightly animal bouquet of strawberry, cherry, caramel and brown bread. Very juicy on the palate, with sufficient aeration a puristic and at the same time extraordinarily flavoursome pleasure. The production quantity is just 2,400 bottles. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2021 Sangiovese di S. Lucia is a bold, racy wine. Ripe red cherry fruit, licorice, leather, rose petal and sweet spice are nicely amplified. The Sangiovese is done in amphora, so it has the combination of fruit purity and intensely savory aromatics that are common for wines done in this style, which is on the eccentric side." Vinous

"Orange blossom with fresh cherries and dried flowers with some dried flower stems, following through to a medium body with tangy fruit and hints of spices. No sulfites added." James Suckling

"Sporting a very punchy and vibrant personality, the Castello dei Rampolla 2021 Sangiovese di S. Lucia offers an authentic and nearly transparent expression of Sangiovese from one of the most beautiful corners on the planet. With cocciopesto amphorae aging, you taste the skins of the grapes with plum and blackcurrant. There is bitter almond and lovely iris or violet-like aromas over a delicate, mid-weight delivery." Wine Advocate

Nemo is an exceptional Tuscan Cabernet: It is masculine, extremely spicy and of an impressive expressiveness. In the initially slightly reductive bouquet, a poptpourri of morello cherry, spices, liquorice, leather, tobacco and a hint of rosemary oil. The palate is punchy, complex and of a high aromatic intensity and at the same time distinctly Tuscan identity. We strongly recommend giving the wine a few hours of aeration before drinking - the alternative for the patient is to put it in the cellar and find it again in five years ... SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red. Rich, tree-ripe cherries on the nose, cranberries, a dash of ink and graphite, violets. On the palate with beautiful melting and great cassis fruit, also minty components, spans a fine arch, fine afterdrying in the finish." Falstaff

"The Castello di Monsanto 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Nemo is a pretty treat. The aromas are spot on and the bouquet shows little sign of the vintage heat that proved difficult in many parts of Tuscany. Instead, this wine offers delicate tones of blue flower, black olive, spice and campfire ash. There is smoothness on the bouquet; however, the palate shows some of the tannic astringency and tightness that is characteristic of this 2017 vintage. Give it a few more years of bottle age." Wine Advocate

"The blackcurrant and vanilla character is coming through strongly here now, both on the nose and palate. It’s full-bodied with chewy tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Some bitterness at the end with the new wood. Give this time to come around." James Suckling

This Riserva is only made available each year in very small quantities to hand-picked specialist retailers and top restaurants. Brilliant ruby red colour. Fine raspberry and floral notes dominate the spicy nose. Very juicy on the palate, tannins and acidity are well integrated. Riecines Riserva has length and suppleness right through to the long fruity finish. The elegance and fine melting texture are impressive. Once again, this is Sangiovese at the top level that Riecine is known for! SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, shiny ruby colour. Elegant bouquet of ripe blackberry and ribes, with some cloves and white pepper behind it, complex. Harmonious on the palate, beautiful alternation of lively acidity, fine-grained tannin and precise fruit, long." Falstaff

"Youthful carmine red colour. Beautiful, mineral, stony nose with notes of leather and brooding fruit. Juicy, compact and fruity on the palate, with finely chiselled tannins. A very appealing whole that still deserves plenty of time." Jancis Robinson

"The nose is herbaceous, savoury and floral with aromas of earth, moss and wild strawberries. A cascade of berries crashes across the palate, while edgy tannins and ample acidity accentuate undertones of dark chocolate and salt, with a latent heat blazing in the background." Wine Enthusiast

"A refined, balanced and seductive red wine with flavours of cherries, dried flowers, wild herbs and exotic spices. It is medium-bodied with fine tannins. Refined texture with focus and a juicy core of wild berries that brings vitality and freshness to the flavourful finish." James Suckling

"In the bottle with the copper-coloured wax capsule, the Bio-Riecine 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva shows rich or almost crunchy red fruit. The mouthfeel of the wine is much improved thanks to its medium weight and silky tannins. The wine has a slight stiffness, which is good for it now, especially when served with red meat, and which also makes it suitable for ageing in the cellar. Riecine is one of the most representative wineries in the Gaiole subzone." Wine Advocate

"It already shows an exquisite clarity of wild strawberries, raspberries, coriander and mint blossom, and although it comes across as slender, it has sufficient concentration. It captivates with its vibrancy and graceful flow; the structure blends insidiously with a structured tannin train. Very nice." Decanter

"The Chianti Classico Riserva 2021 is a dark, brooding wine. Sour cherry, spice, leather, tobacco, menthol, liquorice and dried herbs are enhanced in this powerful, strong Gaiole Riserva. Bright mineral notes round off the whole in style. Give this wine a year or two to develop." Vinous

"From the usual, careful selection of the farm's best plots. On the nose, notes of redcurrant, with a hint of eucalyptus and cinnamon and nuances of laurel. On the palate, it is juicy, with spicy tannins, a return of small red fruits and balsamic flavours." Luca Gardini

Montebello is a sophisticated blend of Mammolo, Ciliegiolo, Pugnitello, Colorino, Sanforte, Malvasia Nera, Canaiolo, Fogliatonda and Sangiovese. Each grape variety is harvested and fermented separately in open Liters barrels with indigenous yeasts and manual racking. A captivating bouquet of dark cherries and earth, with notes of cinnamon, tar and grilled herbs. The defined tannins are accompanied by a beautiful acid wire. A wine with great character and beautiful structure that changes with every sip. SUPERIORE.DE

"Attractive, juicy red wine with fine tannins and a firm structure. Medium-bodied, bright and racy, with notes of ripe cherries and redcurrants and a spicy aftertaste." James Suckling

"Here's a wine that offers you a full dose of Tuscan grapes. The 2019 Montebello (with only 4,000 bottles) is an IGT blend of Mammolo, Ciliegiolo, Pugnitello, Colorino, Sanforte, Malvasia Nera, Canaiolo, Foglia Tonda and Sangiovese. This expression is an attempt to protect some of the lesser known grapes of the region. The mouthfeel is characterised by a subtle sweetness, and the wine offers ripe notes of sour cherry, redcurrant and pomegranate pulp." Wine Advocate

Pale straw yellow with golden reflections. Ripe herbal aromas, tonic, sweet lemon, grapefruit and apricot on the nose. Juicy and penetrating on the palate, with a delightful floral lift and energy that leads seamlessly into the long, complex finish with a savoury bite and pronounced minerality. A beautiful, distinctive single-vineyard Falanghina in a class of its own. SUPERIORE.DE

"This light- to medium-bodied white has a subtle, pleasing fleshiness to it, with mouthwatering acidity sculpting well-knit flavors of melon, persimmon, almond skin, verbena and fleur de sel. Delivers a light, honeyed overtone that lingers on the spiced finish." Wine Spectator

"Green melon, candied lime, freshly sliced Granny Smith apple and crushed stones form a captivating bouquet as the 2022 Falanghina Via del Campo comes to life in the glass. It is soft and supple, with a mineral note at the forefront, enhanced by vibrant acidity, while tart fruit and citrus keep the tension high. The 2022 finishes crisp and refreshing, yet remarkably long with a concentration of sour melon lingering around the cheeks. There is great potential here. The Via del Campo shows the best characteristics of this ripe vintage and a minerality that perfectly balances the expression." Vinous

"Clean floral aromas with notes of yellow peach and apple and a hint of almond. Medium-bodied with a salty freshness on the palate and a long finish with more lemon peel and zest dressing the firm, dry-mineral texture. A Falanghina of the highest calibre." James Suckling

"From the vineyard of the same name in Piana dei Greci, in Mirabella Eclano, partially vinified and fully matured in French oak barriques, this is a sophisticated, multi-layered and complex wine. White melon, a hint of lemon peel and sage on the nose, crisp and savoury mouthfeel, with a fruity finish." Luca Gardini

"A wine like this makes us appreciate a working grape like Falanghina anew. In the right hands, this indigenous grape variety with roots in antiquity can produce marvellous results with surprising nuance and elegance. This is what you get with the Quintodecimo 2022 Irpinia Falanghina Via del Campo. The wine shows a good texture and a slightly waxy note with hints of dried tropical fruit and grapefruit flavours coming from the grape skins. A third of the wine is aged in oak, which also contributes to the flavour and texture of this wine. On the scale of Falanghina wines, it shows much more fruit weight and depth." Wine Advocate

Feudi's Riserva Piano di Montevergine is only vinified in outstanding years. The wine has a very impressive concentration and great richness in every vintage. Dark and brooding on first impression, it slowly awakens in the glass with a captivating blend of menthol, mint and exotic spices that evolves with a lively note of cinnamon-dusted redcurrant. This velvety-smooth and elegant wine appears heavy at first, but is quickly enlivened by a core of vibrant acidity and zesty citrus notes that embellish the tart black fruits. The tannins on the finish are sweet and chalky, while notes of wild red plum and blood orange keep the tasterer coming back for more. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red with garnet reflections. Ripe fruit of plums, heart cherries and bay leaf on the nose, underlaid with cedar wood, tobacco leaf and cardamom. Very polished and straightforward on the palate with gripping tannins and a very spicy final." Falstaff

"Aromas of juicy red cherries, baked strawberries and sage. Medium-bodied with fine, firm tannins. Fresh and juicy on the palate with beautifully balanced red fruits. Subtle length. Charming." James Suckling

"The hot and dry 2017 vintage may be too much for most Italian appellations, but for Irpinia it is one of the best harvests. This Riserva comes from the village of Taurasi. Its dark purple colour and dark fruit profile with cassis and cherry are complemented by an aftertaste of dark chocolate, pistachio and sweet tobacco. The palate is compact with taut, chalky tannins and fresh fruit flavours and shows great balance at this stage. However, it lacks a little complexity, although it will develop more layers as it ages." Decanter

"The Feudi di San Gregorio 2017 Taurasi Riserva Piano di Montevergine is one of Campania's flagship red wines and carries some of the heaviness and softness of this notoriously hot and dry growing season. The fruit comes from a beautiful site with volcanic sand and clay soils. This release is more open and approachable than some of the recent releases, which we have put aside for a long maturation in the cellar." Wine Advocate

For some years now, Matteo Catania has been holding back a few hundred bottles of his wines in the best vintages in order to offer them to his most loyal importers after a few years. From this "private reserve" comes Neromaccarj 2010, which is now - in spring 2023 - offered in small quantities with 9 years of further bottle ageing quasi in Riserva quality.

Dark colour, beautiful bouquet of Mediterranean herbs and balsamic notes, ripe, fruity morello cherry and date fruit, rich in silky tannins, that's how it is, the magnificent and expressive Nero d'Avola single-vineyard wine Neromaccarj. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich ruby with bright violet glints. Multi-layered and inviting nose, smells of dried tomatoes, fresh plums and blackberries, also sandalwood and pepper. Lots of juicy, present fruit on the palate, fresh and crisp, then opens with fine-grained tannin, salty and persistent on the final." Falstaff

"Gulfi's wines are characterized by thick concentration, dark extraction and full throttle aromas. The 2010 Neromàccarj shows all of those qualities in ample doses. You really get a sense of the hot Sicilian summer as you contemplate the bouquet. Sweet cherry and ripe blackberry are the dominant aromas. Dig deeper and subtle tones of grilled herb, licorice and crushed mineral also begin to appear. These aromas build in intensity as the wine takes on more air in the glass. The tannins are soft and the finish is long." Wine Advocate

For some years now, Matteo Catania has been holding back a few hundred bottles of his wines in the best vintages in order to offer them to his most loyal importers after a few years. From this "private reserve" comes Neromaccarj 2011, which is now - in spring 2023 - offered in small quantities with 8 years of further bottle ageing quasi in Riserva quality.

Dark colour, beautiful bouquet of Mediterranean herbs and balsamic notes, ripe, fruity morello cherry and date fruit, rich in silky tannins, that's how it is, the magnificent and expressive Nero d'Avola single-vineyard wine Neromaccarj. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2011 Neromàccarj is the wine that, in my opinion, best encompasses the overall winemaking philosophy at Gulfi. Like the other Nero d'Avola selections presented, this wine boasts a super enriched and concentrated style. On top of black fruit and cherry marmalade, the bouquet offers Teriyaki, barbecue smoke and asphalt-like aromas. Neromàccarj presents a more balanced and complete picture because its large bulk is spread evenly in proportioned elements. In other words, the opulence of the bouquet is perfectly matched to the large footprint left on the finish." Wine Advocate

"The Stilèma project was created as a testament to Antonio Mastroberardino's love for his land, his vines and his wines, and their original character." Piero Mastroberardino

The project aims to highlight the link between the vines, the wines and their territorial origins. The Mastroberardino family wants to recreate the style of winemaking of the indigenous grape varieties of Irpinia (Greco, Fiano and Aglianico) that took place between the late 1950s and early 1970s for the Taurasi and between 1970 and 1980 for the two white wines from Irpinia. It is the unmistakable style (the stilèma) of a family that has interpreted the natural heritage of its territory over generations and that today impressively emphasises the genuine character of the terroir, which by no means can be expressed through high concentration and intensity alone.

Pale straw yellow in colour with light green reflections. The 24 months of ageing on the lees of this exceptional Fiano creates a fascinating balance and complexity in the aroma profile with classic hints of flint, fine saltiness, the scent of fresh almonds, cedar wood and wild herbs. The flavour is lively with a pronounced mineral note, accompanied by an inspiring freshness that gives it great drinking flow and finesse. The precise and very long finish is also extremely convincing. SUPERIORE.DE

"Proof of the grape variety's ageing potential: Fresh hay and apple notes, including mint, are captivating on the nose; in the mouth, the wine is acidic and fresh with a fine salty minerality and a precise evolution towards citrus and apple notes." Vinum

"This slight hint of initial reduction fades to reveal soft citrus, exotic fruit, white peach and pear. The wine's flinty minerality is well defined. The fruit comes from four vineyards and the wine is mostly aged in stainless steel." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Fiano di Avellino Riserva Stilema is aromatically intense, with a burst of ground ginger, cumin, incense and crushed green apples. It's a seductress, with a sweet burst of ripe fruit on the attack that is quickly contrasted by lemon zest and vibrant acidity. As well as being incredibly fresh, the 2019 is also incredibly long, finishing with a sense of liquid stone and a pleasant bitter note that calls me back to the glass for more." Vinous

"A fresh Fiano with aromas of honeysuckle, flint, oyster shells and green pear, which fade into a medium body, a creamy texture and a fruity finish. Slightly salty on the finish." James Suckling

"A masterful, intense and complex pure Fiano. Beautiful profile on the nose, lychee, a hint of pink grapefruit and pineapple, with a finish of herbs, thyme and a hint of jasmine. Dense, iodised mouthfeel, lovely depth, with a return of exotic fruit." Luca Gardini

"The nose is sweet yet structured, thoughtful and almost wistful, with notes of vanilla, pear, yellow apple, lemon, dried pineapple and almond paste. On the elegant, equally compelling palate, a more intense lemon element swirls around fresher pineapple notes and emerging melon flavours before a toasted almond finish follows. The bright acidity adds a subtle sizzle to the overall silky mouthfeel." Wine Enthusiast