Veronelli

Ceretto's single-vineyard Barbaresco Bernadot plays up its elegance and graceful personality. From the fruit of a 4.8-hectare, organically and biodynamically farmed site in Treiso, planted at an altitude of 400 metres above sea level, this pretty Barbaresco unfolds very specific aromas of wild berries, spices, liquorice and iron rust. These aromas are also essential components of its classic Nebbiolo game on the palate, as is its light and silky texture. Barbaresco Bernadot is very straightforward, finely spiced and with a supple personality. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, medium dense ruby garnet. Clearly marked nose with notes of sour cherry, some thyme and coriander seeds. Very precise in attack and course, opens with fine-meshed tannin, builds well, pithy and firm on the final, sweet melting on the final." Falstaff

"Youthful-looking mid ruby. Rather closed on the nose and pure and concentrated fruit on the palate that is still a little embryonic and with firm but truly ripe, complex tannins. The finish is breathtaking, with perfect balance. Simply gorgeous." Jancis Robinson

"Dried herbs, sour cherries, peaches and fresh mushrooms on the nose. Some cedar, too. Succulent and medium-bodied with fine, sleek tannins. Bright and well balanced." James Suckling

"Ceretto planted vines in Bernadot (400 metres above sea level) in 1997 and 1998. The nose shines for its elegant notes of earthy strawberry, fresh violet and a restrained bloody character. The attack is savoury with pomegranate fruit to the fore. It's full and ripe in terms of tannic structure, despite the extraction, with crisp acidity and a dusty finish. A wine full of delicacy but not without structure for the long haul. One to follow." Decanter

"A bright red, delivering a core of cherry and raspberry fruit supported by earth, mineral and wild herbs. Intense, complex and dense, this is solidly built and persists with an aftertaste of dark fruit, mineral and spice." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Barbaresco Bernardot is dark, fleshy and wonderfully nuanced. Soft contours and silky tannins give the 2019 its racy, super-inviting personality. The Bernardot is usually a potent Barbaresco, but in 2019 it is all finesse, all the way. Rose petal, mint, dried cherry and cinnamon linger in this super-expressive Barbaresco from the Ceretto family." Vinous

"The organic Ceretto 2019 Barbaresco Bernadot shows a broader character and a more open-knit personality compared to the Asili. There is a lot of dark fruit, spice, truffle and earth to frame the medium-build of this elegant wine." Wine Advocate

After almost twenty years of experience in the vinification of the famous Etna Rosso "Serra della Contessa", the Benanti family decided in 2015 to extend the vinification, ageing and refinement of the wine to 60 months. The result is an exclusive Riserva made from 85% Mascalese and 15% Cappuccio, produced in small quantities from vines over 100 years old (pre-phylloxera) from plot no. 587, which is rightly considered one of the best red wines in the region.

Bright ruby red with light garnet-coloured reflections. Ethereal and intense on the nose, with hints of wild berries, spices, precious wood and traces of white smoke. Full, elegant, harmonious and mineral on the palate, with terrificelegance and length. SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful, sparkling ruby-garnet colour. Inviting nose with notes of ripe cherries, some strawberry and coffee powder. Full-bodied and gripping on the palate, shows plenty of grippy tannins, unfortunately a little rough on the final." Falstaff

"The warm, baked cherry and plum fruit in this graceful red exhibits a hint of menthol. Smooth, creamy tannins are seamlessly integrated, while fragrant details of tar, iron, singed orange peel and rooibos tea linger on the firm, lingering finish." Wine Spectator

"Evolved style with milk-chocolate, meaty and balsamic tones combined with red cherries and red berries. The palate is soft with elegant tannins, crisp acidity and a restrained smokiness in the aftertaste. Very savory yet lacks a bit of energy." James Suckling

After almost thirty years of experience in the vinification of the famous Etna Rosso "Rovittello", the Benanti family decided in 2015 to extend the vinification, ageing and refinement of the wine to 60 months. The result is an exclusive Riserva, produced in small quantities from vines over 100 years old from plot no. 341, which is rightly considered one of the best red wines in the region. The Nerello grapes (85% Mascalese/15% Cappuccio) come from a terraced vineyard (pre-phylloxera) in the Contrada Dafara Galluzzo in the upper area of Rovittello, part of the municipality of Castiglione di Sicilia.

Pale ruby colour with light garnet tones. Fine, ethereal, floral, intense, spicy, delicate bouquet with hints of ripe fruit, young, tanned leather and cedar wood. Firm and powerful on the palate, it only opens up gradually and then gradually reveals its depth and secrets, which are characterised by impressive weightlessness and elegance. An extremely harmonious red with meditation potential - mineral and remarkably persistent! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby-garnet colour. Complex and inviting nose, flavours of cinchona bark, ripe strawberries, some light tobacco in the background. Grippy, very finely layered tannins on the palate, clearly defined fruit, juicy, firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"Cedar and dried flowers with some plum and orange-peel aromas that follow through to a medium body, fine tannins and a crunchy finish. Just a hint of wood at the end." James Suckling

"Elegant yet exuberant, with flavours of cherry, rose, strawberry and juniper that glide gracefully across the silky palate. Underlined by mineral tar and leather notes, this red wine is long and refreshing, with firm but plushly textured tannins on the finish." Wine Spectator

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Luce Brunello is dark and impenetrable, as always in its more international style. On the palate, it delivers ripe and round fruit flavours of blackberries and plums with plenty of opulence, power and race. The comparatively warm year of 2017 has been superbly parried and we have here once again a wonderful Sangiovese interpretation very much in the style of the Frescobaldi family with wonderful melting, impressive length and suppleness. SUPERIORE.DE

"Multi-layered bouquet with forest fruit aromas spiced up with nuances of bitter chocolate, spices and roses; the attack is promising, the tannins tightly woven and well integrated, mineral facets, the finish full-bodied, fruit and elegance in perfect symbiosis." Vinum

"Elegant bouquet, very polished of the skilfully modern kind. Juicy but precisely worked out dark cherry, juicy plums, behind them sweet spicy notes of tobacco, mocha and cedar. Precise on the palate with polished enormously juicy fruit with lots of detail, sweet carpet-like but quite polished tannins, spicy fruity final." Weinwisser

"Nougat, coffee, dark fruit, elderberry, some plum, prune too; blueberry on the palate, clay grip, polished international style, clear and precise." Meiningers Sommelier

"Rich ruby with brightening garnet rim. Fine, rich, dark cherry, plus plum fresh from the tree, some tobacco in the background. On the palate beautifully elaborated fruit of cherry and raspberry, then opens up with grippy tannin, embedded in sweet melting." Falstaff

"A classic style, floral, and very expressive. Intense in the mouth, with strong tannins wrapping the rich fruits, straw, and roasted coffee." Decanter

"The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Luce is an exuberant and flashy expression of Sangiovese. Just like the etched label design that features sunbeams, the wine radiates fresh fruit, cherry, spice, tar, licorice and grilled herb. The house style favors a contemporary and rich style of Sangiovese, and the wine's velvety approach is measured against the ample texture and fruit weight presented here. This warm 2017 vintage is well interpreted by the folks at Tenuta Luce." Wine Advocate

"The freshness and the floral aromas with citrus fruit and berries are startling for a 2017. The palate is full and extremely refined with elegant tannins and vivid fruit and orange-peel undertones. Racy and bright at the finish." James Suckling

Brilliant, dark ruby colour. Deep bouquet of rich blackberry and cherry flavours with mentholated herbal notes that give it lift, while notes of cedar and clove develop in the glass. On the palate, the wine is a pure silk that slowly lays over the palate, with an admirable density and weight balanced by bright acidity and minerality. This still very young wine is full of potential with a core of dark primary fruit that already offers a good foretaste of the charm of later years. A finely woven tannin structure on the long final. Wonderful ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Very beautiful, floral bouquet with delicate candied, ripe cherries, lilacs and rose petals. Powerful, juicy in the mouth, spicy-floral frame with rather red berry freshness, beautiful spice and herbal notes, good tension with quite supple, fine-grained tannins." Weinwisser

"Bright ruby red with garnet reflections. Elegant bouquet of sweet cherries, undergrowth, fresh mushrooms, plus some tobacco and saddle leather. Incredibly soft on entry with young but fine tannins, precise fruit, long." Falstaff

"Medium to deep ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Attractive, firm cherry fruit nose with balsamic, minty oak notes. Lots of supple, tangy cherry with grippy but polished tannins. A seductive whole that can be savoured now but also lasts a long time." Jancis Robinson

"Compact and exciting young red colour with lots of dark fruit and violets as well as subtle spicy and roasted undertones. Creamy and rich on the palate with balanced acidity. Persistent length with flavours of dried herbs on the finish. Needs more time to mellow." James Suckling

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is wild, opening with a savoury burst of spiced orange and clove before settling on black cherry and ashen rock. It feels creamy and seductive, with a wave of rich red fruit flowing easily across the palate, guided by juicy acidity. Tension builds on the finish as salty minerals mingle with edgy tannins, leaving a pleasantly bitter sensation and leaving the mouth wanting more. Although some patience will be required, I expect the 2019 to exceed expectations after only a few years of cellaring." Vinous

"The La Gerla 2019 Brunello di Montalcino has spicy, dried fruit with blackcurrant, pine cones, juniper berries and a hint of medicinal herbs or camphor ash. The oak is clearly evident in the form of fireflies or crushed cloves. On the palate, this Brunello is rather streamlined, and although the tannins are still slightly chalky, they are now almost accessible." Wine Advocate

"One of the company's gems, a Brunello of rare reliability. On the nose, notes of red mulberry, then eucalyptus and cinnamon, with hints of gardenia. The sip is savoury, with a return of balsamic sensations and red mulberry. Closes with floral notes." Luca Gardini

Paleo Rosso - unmistakable Cabernet Franc and one of Bolgheri's most important wines, full of elegance and class. The name is unspectacularly derived from a weed that has long since been removed from the vineyards of Le Macchiole. Rich ruby red colour with violet reflections. Mint, white pepper, blackberry fruit and a hint of pomegranate on the nose. Finely melting on the palate with hints of tobacco and poppy seeds. Wonderfully structured and with a long final. SUPERIORE.DE

"A rich bouquet, characterised by hints of iron, which combine with ethereal medicinal notes to create a recognisable signature. Tobacco, fir wood and dark herbs characterise the distinctive expression of this top wine. On the palate, it is gripping with an elegant structure, emphasising an expressive yet subtle spiciness, a real spicy orgy of exotic spices, cardamom, cloves and slightly smoky peppers. Cabernet Franc at its finest, eternally salty and savoury aftertaste. Great cinema." Weinwisser

"Intensely reflective ruby-purple colour. Opens on the nose with pronounced spicy notes of graphite and cedar, then black cherry, dark currants and white pepper. Grippy, gripping tannins characterise the palate, dark fruit components, with an emphatically spicy final." Falstaff

"Precise, with accents of herbs and peppers in the blackcurrant, black olive, iron and tobacco flavours. Shows subliminal vanilla and spice elements from the discreet use of new oak, which unfold with harmony and finesse on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"Lots of black berries and black olives with blackcurrants and rosemary. Full-bodied, chewy and rich with intense tannins and a long, powerful finish. Muscular and taut." James Suckling

"Its aroma is a heady combination of leafy and cedar scents, saturated with vibrant graphite minerality, citrus fruit and liquorice depth. On the palate, this is supported by tremendous extraction and power, with firm, oaky tannins and a graphite aftertaste of astonishing elegance." Decanter

"The Le Macchiole 2020 Paleo is one of the best Cabernet Francs in Italy. It is very dense and richly concentrated, with an amount of dark fruit that can only be broken down by slow maturation in the cellar. Paleo is always a wine for the long haul. The oak needs time to integrate and focus. Even at this young stage, the quality of the tannins and the precise ripeness of the fruit are convincing. A hint of sweet cherry, exotic spice and dark chocolate ensure a long finish." Wine Advocate

"The Paleo Rosso 2020 is noble, elegant and wonderfully polished. Crushed flowers, spices and blood orange lend it brightness. The Paleo Rosso impresses with its medium-bodied structure and offers great depth. It has performed very well in the past. I assume that this will also be the case here, as the 2020 radiates balance from start to finish. The 2020 matured for 18 months in 100% French oak and 5% of the wine was aged in amphorae." Vinous

"A firework of pepper lights up the nose, from black pepper to green peppercorns and hot chilli. Undertones of flint and leather intensify the spiciness, while flavours of raspberry jam and vanilla provide balance. On the palate, the spiciness remains, with biting, assertive acidity, but a sweetness lingers, and a finish of chilli and chocolate ties it all together. Transcendent." Wine Enthusiast

Bricco della Bigotta smells of cherries, cinnamon, black pepper and a hint of tobacco. On the palate, great finesse and harmonious balance between acidity and alcohol. Lingers long with character and class. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, deep dark ruby with a slight violet shimmer. Very intense and deep nose of dark wild raspberries and black cherries, in the background cinnamon and some red beet. Round and mouth-filling on the palate, showing lots of ripe cherry fruit, embedded in fine melting, unfolds elegantly and with persistence." Falstaff

"Aromas of baked plum, baking spice and mocha emerge from the glass. The bold, full-bodied palate offers cherry marinated in spirits, white pepper and cocoa alongside smooth tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"Like all the Barberas from Braida in this flight, the alcohol content is recorded at a hefty 15.5% here, but the 2018 Barbera d'Asti Bricco della Bigotta shows a lot more ripeness, sweetness and rich concentration across the board. This expression is just heavier and denser. You sink your teeth into this red wine. There is oak spice and toasted cinnamon, and the wine carries extra fruit weight." Wine Advocate

Luce Brunello is dark and impenetrable, as always in its more international style. On the palate, it delivers ripe and round fruit flavours of blackberries and plums with plenty of opulence, power and breed. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich and full-bodied, this juicy red shows aromas of cherry, blackcurrant and Mediterranean scrub, with hints of graphite, underpinned by muscular tannins that come through on the finish. Very balanced overall." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is generous and open in personality. It shows sweet cherries, dried raspberries, spices and fragrant roses." Wine Advocate

"Sparkling, rich ruby with a fine garnet shimmer. Quite restrained on the nose, then opens up with notes of rose petals and tea, rich spicy components in the background. Firm and grippy on the palate, shows plenty of grippy tannin, substantial and structured, but still needs longer ageing." Falstaff

"A finely structured and concentrated Brunello with a complex palette of cherries, blackberries, dried roses, bark, liquorice and a hint of praline. Also iodine and oyster shells. Medium to full body with firm, very fine tannins. Nice texture and balance. Remains fresh and fine until the end. To be tasted from 2025." James Suckling

Scarrone Vigna Vecchia" has been certified organic since the 2019 vintage. Multi-layered aroma with notes of wild berries, chocolate and mint, lots of power, fruit and fullness on the palate, spicy-opulent final. A Barbera that can and should mature. The small edition of this exquisite extract from just under 1.4 hectares of vineyard is usually sold out in no time at all. SUPERIORE.DE

"Wow, this wine is all about concentration and power. This is due to several factors, including firstly the hot vintage and secondly the great age of these precious vines. Just remember that they were planted in 1918, during the final offensive of the First World War. The Vietti 2020 Barbera d'Alba Scarrone Vigna Vecchia has a deep black appearance and is certainly not shy about its thickness and density. The wine coats the palate with baked fruit and blackberry jam. This is an extreme expression of Barbera, but considering the nuances, the wine also shows very careful balance." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 Barbera d'Alba Scarrone Vigna Vecchia captures all the magic of the old vines in this cru from Castiglione Falletto. Black cherry, plum, liquorice, incense, melted road tar and spices combine in a Barbera of unusual complexity, power and elegance. Again, the purity of the flavours is downright compelling." Vinous

"Concentrated aromas of black cherry, cinnamon, black tea and rosebud are found in the glass. The palate is a study in both richness of fruit and lifted elegance as the lush cherry and blackberry flavors set the stage but are then bolstered by the vibrant acidity and sweet and savory spices. It's well-balanced and supremely structured." Wine Enthusiast

Franchetti Rosso is Passopisciaro's flagship and a breathtakingly perfect wine. The grapes come from vineyards 1000 metres above sea level in the north of Etna, where the soils consist of ash and pumice. Franchetti is a ripe, exotic wine that envelops the palate with dark fruit flavours. Refined tannins support the fruit, while an intense inner sweetness lends elegance and finesse. A thoroughly outstanding wine with wonderful development potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, impenetrable ruby colour, deep dark. Shows rich notes of blueberry and mulberry on the nose, also some cassis, cloves and smoke in the background. Lots of dark fruit on the palate too, then opens up with fine tannins, builds for a long time, pithy and with firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"Purplish in the glass, this wine displays restrained black fruit with blueberries and soft pepperiness. The palate is very savory, with generous but fresh fruitiness, chewy tannins and refreshing acidity. Very crunchy overall, with a medium body and a warming finish." James Suckling

"The 2022 Franchetti is dark and brooding in the glass as mentholated herbs and white smoke give way to dried blackberries, earth tones and a hint of white pepper. This is velvety and supple, enveloping the palate with a cloak of ripe red and black fruits as a growing tension develops beneath the surface, mixing salty minerals with fine tannins. Brilliant acidity maintains fantastic balance as the 2022 finishes spicy and long. There’s a classic feel to its structural components, closing with an air of violet inner florals. In 2022, the Franchetti is a blend of 70% Petit Verdot and 30% Cesanese d’Affile." Vinous

"From Petit Verdot and Cesanese d'Affile grown in contrada Guardiola, Franchetti 2022 has such a complex aroma, consisting of damp earth, wild mint, rose, lavender, dark chocolate, dark cherry and strawberry jam. In the mouth it's tightly coiled and full of energy, with fine tannins and succulent fleshy red and blue berries contained within its vertical profile, just waiting to burst free. There's a lovely rolling wave of acidity which persists on the blackcurrant and spice finish." Decanter

Coltassala Gran Selezione is an impeccable representative of the royal class in Chianti Classico. The immensely fragrant bouquet shows black fruits, spices and ploughed earth. All the aromas are on the dark and spicy side, but the wine always remains fresh, dense, buoyant and very linear. Shows rich volume and a strong personality and precision. SUPERIORE.DE

"As always at this young stage, the wood notes accompany the fine and bright fruit; the strengths lie in the inner tension, the elegance, the solid style of the fine tannin and the eternal length. Confirms the upward trend of this great classic, which has been organically farmed since 2000." Weinwisser

"Charismatic attack of cherries and black pepper, delicately tinged with liquorice notes; the tannins youthful, the acidity perfectly integrated, plenty of richness and power through to the long complex final." Vinum

"The organic Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Coltassala 2019 is 95% Sangiovese with a tiny 5% Mammolo. The production is 9,000 bottles in this vintage. The wine shows medium fruit weight with a nice blend of creamy black fruits, Christmas spices and crushed stone or granite. The wine is both fruity and contemporary." Wine Advocate

"Bright ruby red. In the nose initially fine mint, some fruit tea, also fine liquorice, in the aftertaste of ripe blackberries and cardamom. On the palate with clear, radiant fruit, tense powerful tannin, also on the palate with ripe berry fruit, in the final with delicate earthy-spicy nuances, grippy." Falstaff

"Aromas of black cherries and citrus fruits with some graphite and smoke. Medium-bodied with firm, juicy tannins that are still chewy now but will soften with age. Racy and long on the finish. From organically grown grapes." James Suckling

"Lovely cherry, raspberry and floral aromas and flavours take centre stage in this graceful red wine. Lively and elegant, with well-integrated tannins and a long, supple, mineral finish. In about 5 to 6 years, this wine will be truly charming." Wine Spectator

"An exceptional Gran Selezione from Volpaia, sourced from the winery's historic vines and clones. On the nose, red raspberry, hints of rhubarb and juniper, then balsamic eucalyptus. Salty-sweet on the palate, with a fruity finish and balsamic notes, very long lasting." Luca Gardini

Vigna San Marcellino Gran Selezione is both youthfully fresh and ripe and complexly muscular. It contains a healthy dose of the deeply coloured Pugnitello grape, and on the nose liquorice, tarragon and broom mingle with lush plum and subtle roasted aromas that are highly seductive in their complexity. Deep, taut and lively on the palate, loaded with black cherry and rich, velvety tannins. The texture is silky, while subtle chalky notes and a salty minerality give it plenty of energy and lead it into a juicy, refreshing finish. Vigna San Marcellino is a convincing wine with enormous ageing potential every year. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, intense ruby red colour. Clearly sweet blood orange, sour cherries and black pepper on the nose, followed by an aroma of dark chocolate. Juicy, ripe cherry fruit on the palate, pleasant acidity with soft tannins, elegant and long finish." Falstaff

"Lots of Sangiovese with some Pugnitello from the vineyard of the same name: engaging bouquet of black cherries and lilac, spicy notes; the lively acidity and the excellent, still youthful tannins are well balanced, the finish is long on notes of redcurrants and minerality." Vinum

"Beautiful complexity and spice, with walnuts, grilled citrus, plums and sweet spices. Full-bodied yet quite restrained, with fine, dusty tannins and a long finish. Polished." James Suckling

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto San Marcellino 2019 is a dark, brooding wine. Black cherry, leather, smoke, incense and tobacco contribute to an impression of seriousness and pure power. This is a particularly dark, virile edition of San Marcellino. Give it a few years to mature." Vinous

"Aromas and flavours of violets, blackcurrants and black cherries take centre stage in this supple, energetic yet elegant red wine. Vibrant and straightforward, with a firm line of tannins and great length on the iron-rich finish. It ends with fruity, mineral and spicy notes and shows solid grip." Wine Spectator

Just 3,500 bottles from the oldest vines of the Salco vineyard are only sold in the best vintages. In the glass, we are delighted by an extremely elegant Sangiovese with a very harmonious texture and very classic, earthy and spicy notes. SUPERIORE.DE

"Cherries and chocolate rise on the nose before earthy flavours take over, from mushrooms and dirt to undergrowth and moss. These notes are reflected on the palate and are carried through to a long, mocha-infused finish with stiff, persistent tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"The Nobile di Montepulciano Vecchie Viti del Salco 2019 tantalises the imagination with a delicate yet complex bouquet. Swirling reveals an array of aromas of wilted violets, potpourri, stone dust and crushed red plums. It glides across the palate like liquid velvet, seamless and elegant, with a core of ripe red and blue fruits that slowly immerse the senses in primary concentration. Sweet spice notes contrast with a hint of dark chocolate over a web of fine-grained tannins as the 2019 finishes dramatically long. Not only is the 2019 a textural thrill, it also has tremendous depth. This wine has only got better in the bottle over the past year. The team at Salcheto have outdone themselves. " Vinous

Cepparello is one of the great varietal Sangiovese classics from central Tuscany. Brilliant ruby red colour. Clean, flawless aroma of red fruits, enlivened by fine pepper accents and delicate mineral nuances. Elegance radiates from the relaxed, enveloping flavour, which provides a perfectly measured acidity framework to a well-integrated tannin to finish long and full of finesse. SUPERIORE.DE

"Starts with a lot of esprit on warm-scented berry and flower flavours; complex attack, the acidity and the fine-grained tannins in perfect balance, salty-mineral nuances, the final opulent and yet full of elegance. Should be left for a few more years." Vinum

"Sparkling ruby colour of medium density. Finely characterised nose, with notes of raspberry and dark cherries, plus some eucalyptus. Juicy from the beginning to the end, shows plump cherry fruit, some blackberry, present tannin in many fine layers, pomegranate on the final." Falstaff

"Despite its medium-weight structure, the Cepparello 2021 is a restrained, tight-knit wine. Today, the 2021 still seems quite nervous and lean, even for a young Cepparello. It will be interesting to see how it develops with a little more time in the bottle. I really like the energy of this wine." Vinous

"Plum, cherry and pomegranate fruit are framed by toasted oak and mineral flavours in this lively and juicy red wine that offers plenty of energy, with elements of tar and oak on the lingering finish. It shows good balance, with the dense tannins leaving room for the fruit at the end. Needs time." Wine Spectator

"The Isole e Olena 2021 Cepparello, one of Tuscany's flagship wines, immediately offers ripe fruit flavours that are firm, even crisp, which bodes well for the future development of this classic vintage. The wine is packed with tart fruit flavours, followed by balanced acidity. Compared to previous vintages, which are more extracted and dense, this vintage is delightfully bright and transparent. I appreciate the age-worthy path Cepparello is taking." Wine Advocate

"In this vintage, the Cepparello shows very restrained notes of red cherries, dried violets and plenty of stony minerality. There is a fleshy and spicy character in the depths. Overall very precise and integrated. The palate is dominated by velvety tannins that have a chalky, even dusty texture, with a full body, amazing concentration and very refreshing acidity. The finish is bright and focused on cherry stones. A good wine for longer ageing. Possibly one of the best Cepparello ever." James Suckling

Cherry accentuated bouquet with hints of violet blossoms, clove, cigar box and a pleasant spicy sweetness. Dense and expressive on the palate, it opens vibrantly and multilayered and then reveals a beautiful load of black cherry, exotic spices and a fine salty vein. The perfectly balanced tannin always provides the necessary balance and gives it a racy, very long finish with its exceedingly refined flavour components. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium to deep ruby red. Perfumed, spicy nose with mineral notes. Fine polished fruit that is really fresh. Long, grainy tannins. Lush and fresh at the same time." Jancis Robinson

"The Castiglion del Bosco 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is robust and powerful from the start, showing broad shoulders and plenty of muscle. But at the end of the day, the wine's concentration remains on the medium to medium-bodied side of the spectrum. It remains firmly within the confines of Sangiovese. Dark fruits and blackcurrants segue into savoury notes of toasted spices, black olives, earth and rusty nails." Wine Advocate

"In the far northwest of Montalcino, the sprawling Castiglion del Bosco estate stretches over several hills of varying heights, exposures and textures. From 42 hectares dedicated to Brunello comes this impressive production. The 2018 does not explode with its fragrance, but slowly unfolds its floral aromas. These reach a crescendo on the palate, melding seamlessly with joyful, pure pomegranate and cherry flavours. The supple tannins have a velvety texture. Unrestrained and fluid, it's hard to resist now." Decanter

"Ripe berries and hints of red liquorice and herbs on the nose, medium-bodied on the palate with fine, tightly packed tannins and a taut finish for now. Give it two years to relax a little. Taste from 2025." James Suckling

"The nose puts cherries front and center, intertwined with roses with heavier tar and graphite, before umami flavors of mushroom, balsamic vinegar, seaweed and soy slowly emerge. On the chalky palate, dark chocolate pushes up against the showboating cherries before a kick of spice sets up a long, energetic finish." Wine Enthusiast

"Exuding a dusty blend of cedar spice, mentholated herbs, rose petals and sour cherry, the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino feels round and supple, with floral red and black fruits complemented by a subtle hint of sweet spice. The palate leaves a bitter aftertaste of sour berries, while a touch of residual acidity gives the wine a pleasing freshness and a gentle tannin slowly retreats. The 2018 has improved every time I've tasted it over the past five months, and it now shows the robustness of northwestern Montalcino Sangiovese, but in a wonderfully balanced way." Vinous

"Rich at the start, with a touch of glycerine in the texture before civilised tannins take over on the finish. It offers notes of plum, cherry, earth, tobacco and iron that come through, with a firm grip of tannins on the finish." Wine Spectator

"From a parcel of the Capanna vineyard, one of the most accomplished expressions of the winery run by managing director Simone Pallesi. Pomegranate notes on the nose, with balsamic nuances of eucalyptus and rhubarb. Salty, juicy tannins on the palate, fruity-balsamic finish." Luca Gardini

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The area around the small town of Milo is the only vineyard site on Etna where an Etna Bianco is allowed to be bottled as Superiore - and for good reason: only Carricante may be planted on the steep vineyard, which consists of dozens of small terraces. The vines are trained like a small tree on poles made of chestnut wood. The eastern exposure and the proximity of the sea allow the grapes to ripen late, resulting in consistently high acidity levels and a white wine with an aromatic finesse and freshness that is unrivalled even on Etna.

Pietra Marina is a single-varietal Carricante from vines over 80 years old at an altitude of around 950 metres on the eastern side of the volcano. The grapes are not harvested until October each year. Orange blossom, lychee, elderberry and apple on the nose. Harmonious and balanced on the palate, with perfectly integrated acidity and a beautiful finish. Distinct character, full of elegance, profound, sensual and endowed with a stunningly clean spectrum of flavours. One of the rarest and certainly most interesting white wines in Italy! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright straw yellow with light green notes. Opens with notes of flint and matchstick, lots of grapefruit. Beautiful interplay of acidity and salt on the palate, straightforward, fresh citrus fruit." Falstaff

"A statuesque white with razor-sharp acidity, interwoven with finely woven flavours of apricot, persimmon and Marcona almond, showing accents of lemon oil, honeysuckle and pine. The silky texture has a beautiful, feather-light quality, while a racy hint of salinity defines the very long finish." Wine Spectator

"This intense Etna is full of tension, showing candied cedar, kerosene, apricots and orange blossoms. Light- to medium-bodied, it has a bone-dry style with crisp acidity, minerals and a tight, slightly austere finish." James Suckling

"The Etna Bianco Superiore Pietra Marina 2019 is captivating. It is perfumed and floral, with enriching notes of almond paste and candy spice that perfectly accentuate a smoky core of white peaches. The palate has more verve but is somewhat restrained, with wiry textures and an intense mineral core that adds depth to the citrus-influenced orchard fruits. The nervy acidity makes the mouth water and provides a dazzling freshness, while flowers and sour limes linger on the inside. The 2019 is still a small child today, compact yet complex, balanced and full of character." Vinous

Syrah Suisassi is rich and expressive. The bouquet is convincing with aromas of sage, rosemary, wild flowers, liquorice, violets and plums. On the palate very full and round with memories of berries, chocolate and nuts. Elegant and intellectual. SUPERIORE.DE

"4000 bottles are produced from this wine, which is aged in wood: Inviting nose of juniper berries, tobacco and herbs; juicy, compact on the palate, with accurately integrated acidity, elegant and long." Vinum

"The 2016 Suisassi brings together power and freshness to a degree that is quite rare on the coast. Inky dark purplish fruit, leather, licorice, plum, lavender and spice come together in a deep Syrah endowed with tremendous concentration as well as power. Time in the glass brings out the wine's explosive energy and tension. The 30% whole clusters are evident, but not overly so." Vinous

"There is a lot of gorgeous spice in the 2016 Syrah Suisassi, along with candied fruit, cherry and notes of blackberry. The Syrah takes very well to 20 months in oak, retaining a freshness and fruity sweetness to accompany the spice. The mouthfeel is velvety and rich. In the end, this is a fine and elegant expression of Syrah that I could envision serving with a creamy steak au poivre." Wine Advocate

"Wow. This shows amazing aromas of foie gras, game, pepper and spice with the dark fruit. Full body and soft, juicy tannins that form the wild and exotic, syrah character in the aftertaste. Love this. From biodynamically grown grapes. Demeter-certified." James Suckling

Suisassi is rich and expressive. The bouquet convinces with aromas of sage, rosemary, wild flowers, liquorice, violets and plums. The palate is very full and round with memories of berries, chocolate and nuts. Elegant and intellectual. SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful, dark ruby-violet. Very expressive and appealing nose, full of ripe blueberries and blackberries, ripe plums, very clear fruit, also rich spice in the background. Juicy and rich on the palate, shows lots of incisive berry fruit, grippy, tightly meshed tannin, very long finish." Falstaff

"One of the icons of the Tuscan coast, this wine is a pioneer in organic and biodynamic farming, especially in this neck of the woods. The Duemani 2018 Syrah Suisassi is beautifully generous and full-bodied. The wine delivers uninterrupted waves of black and purple fruit, all followed up by spice, baker's chocolate and softly cured tobacco. As is the case with Luca D'Attoma's Cabernet Franc Duemani that I also tasted as an unfinished wine, I am pleased to say that these final results more than delivered on my expectations. This is mostly thanks to the wine's balance and power." Wine Advocate

"The 2018 Suisassi (Syrah) is another exceptional wine in this range. Dark and racy, the 2018 offers up copious blue/blackish fruit, lavender, menthol and chocolate. There's real depth and density here, but not the heaviness of the past. Once again, Luca D'Attoma and Elena Celli crafted a unique and totally distinctive wine. Superb." Vinous

"Ripe black cherries, wild blackberries, blackcurrants, nutmeg, licorice, mahogany, musk and some dried thyme on the nose. It’s full-bodied and polished with intense blue and black-fruit flavors, wonderfully balanced with wood, spice and smoky notes. Velvety, integrated tannins. Such focus and precision. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Already stunning and hard to resist now, but better in a couple of years." James Suckling

Amarone Sergio Zenato Riserva - seductive complexity. Deep bouquet of black berries and cocoa, violets and lavender. The taste with aromas of cherries, blackberries and wild berries, in the long finish the invigorating fresh impressions of medicinal herbs. A noble wine of the upper class. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, shiny ruby. Opened with slightly earthy notes, of porcini mushrooms and dried tomatoes, pickled cherries, chocolate. Dense and compact on the palate, opening with many layers of soft and dense tannin, dark berry fruit, in the finale to noble dark chocolate." Falstaff

"Dried thyme and rosemary are a fragrant entry point for this sleek, sculpted red, cloaking muscular tannins in a well-spiced robe of currant pâte de fruit, tarry mineral, fruit cake and rich hints of melted licorice and mocha." Wine Spectator

"This Amarone shows shaved-chocolate, dried-strawberry and burnt-orange undertones. Full-bodied, round and juicy. Soft tannins. Very intense and flavorful. A complex, layered riserva Amarone." James Suckling

This coveted Riserva is only vinified in top vintages and comes from the highest vineyards of the winery. On the nose, the essence of dark cherries, blackberries, flowers, violets, liquorice and spices, which are then carried away on the palate by firm, structured tannins. The Brunello Riserva 2016 impresses with its remarkable fruit and a big, explosive finish. It presents itself fresh and surprisingly lively, yet very focused and balanced. A great wine that is already a real joy to drink. SUPERIORE.DE

"Andrea Cortonesi crafts distinctly umami Brunello from various parcels at diverse altitudes and exposures in the warm reaches of Castelnuovo dell’Abate. After trying the sensuous 2015 Riserva at the estate in September 2021, I was excited to taste the 2016 release. It too is voluptuously shaped yet shored up by sturdy, muscular tannins. Pronounced clove and nutmeg meet prune, dried raspberry and tar. And there is a saline beef broth undertow. While it offers plenty to unpack over the years, I actually prefer to drink Uccelliera’s wines when they are still full of vim and vigour." Decanter

"This is really polished and refined, yet remains polished and beautiful, with cherries and berries, as well as light hazelnut and walnut undertones. Compact and silky. Drink after 2024, but already so attractive." James Suckling

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is a terrific wine: bold, well-defined, powerful and balanced. There are many good things to relate, but the high alcohol content (measured at 15.5%) is the only distraction. This is a trend in the Riserva category in the 2016 vintage. The bouquet shows black cherry, cassis, earth, leather and dried roses. The palate offers soft fruit flavors supported by firm oak tannins." Wine Advocate

"Rich and deeply alluring, the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva wafts up to display crushed ashen stone mixed with hints of ginger, dusty florals and black cherry preserves. This is velvety-smooth and pliant in feel, lifted by cooling herbal and mineral tones, as an opulent wave of ripe red and black fruits washes across the palate, leaving a staining of minerals and spice in its wake. It’s long and structured, in need of further time to come fully into focus, yet somehow the 2016 Riserva remains completely fresh, tapering off to inner earth tones and hints of blueberry. Time will reveal further depths. This is an utterly classic Uccelliera Brunello in the making." Vinous

"Offers forthcoming aromas and flavors of blackberry, black currant, licorice, tobacco and vanilla backed by vivid acidity and dusty tannins, with a long, saline finish. Showing enough fruit and structure to absorb the oakiness over time, this is balanced overall and poised for a promising future." Wine Spectator