Vinibuoni

Laura Brunelli's Brunello is an outstanding reflection of the appellation every year. A floral bouquet, the purest expression of cherry and strawberry imaginable, hints of mint, sage and cedar dust - all are found in its stunning bouquet. The youthful density of the ripe primary fruit contrasts with salty minerality and lively acidity, leaving a cascading and crisp impression on the palate. SUPERIORE.DE

"Scents of wild strawberries and violets; well balanced texture, the tannins tight, elegant course, pithy fresh finish." Vinum

"Shiny medium ruby red. Spicy, mineral nose with fragrant fruit but not really opening up yet. Elegant, long flavours of raspberry and fruit with plenty of fresh acidity and grippy, gravelly tannins. Still youthful and will take some time to come together." Jancis Robinson

"Enticing nose of rosemary, wild cherries, lemon peel, chocolate strawberries and pralines. It is medium-bodied with a bright, fruit-driven palate framed by fine-grained tannins. All in balance. Drinkable from 2023." James Suckling

"The dark, seductive Brunello di Montalcino 2018 rumbles from the glass with a blend of crushed plums and black cherries, complemented by nuances of grated sage. It is soft and deep, engulfing the palate with ripe wild berries and spices, underlined by a spicy herbaceous steak. A web of fine tannins creates a truly classic impression, while mentholated herbs and hints of wild strawberries keep popping up. This youthfully masked beauty will need minimal ageing to be at its best." Vinous

"As with the 2017 vintage, Laura Brunelli will not be releasing a Riserva. Instead, the Olmo vineyard, which typically forms the backbone of the Riserva, is an important component in this Annata Brunello, making a beautiful and complete wine. Mint, lavender and fennel lead on the nose, while sweet, juicy persimmon and crisp pomegranate provide the backdrop on the palate, and the chalky tannins are quite insidious in their grip. On the surface it's approachable, but its substance, intrigue and backbone suggest more to come." Decanter

"This red wine with its cherry and raspberry aromas also offers flavours of eucalyptus, minerals, earth and almonds. Lively and balanced, with an intense, delicious finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino captures the essence and spirit of the Sangiovese grape very well, a grape that in the right hands delivers endlessly nuanced and complex results. This wine reveals wild cherry, blue violet, blood orange, rusty nail and sweet earth. Hints of scorched earth or baked clay highlight the warmest months in this growing cycle. The result is balanced and fresh. I have mentioned alcohol levels throughout this review, and although the 14% registered here is still quite high, it is below the average of its peers. This is a very well done job." Wine Advocate

Deep, bright ruby red in colour. This 100% Nero d'Avola is a captivating wine with its full-bodied, fruity and spicy aroma of blackcurrants, cherries, undergrowth, liquorice and dark chocolate. The soft but firm, multi-layered and warm flavour of ripe berries, the fine spice and the fine tannins are very appealing. SUPERIORE.DE

"It is a well-made Nero d'Avola with a purity and freshness in its ripe character of red and black berries and cherries. Intense and savoury, with tangy acidity, it shows juicy cherries and black fruits along with notes of chocolate and balsamic and mouth-coating tannins. Full and rich in fruit, but quite vertical in style, it is a lively and storable example of what can be achieved with this typical Sicilian grape." Decanter

"The 2020 Santa Cecilia, a single varietal Nero d'Avola, rises from the glass with a dark and brooding blend of crushed plums, cloves, stone dust and a hint of camphor. It's round and supple with juicy acidity that retains a lovely energy, and bright red and blue fruits cascade across the palate. The 2020 finishes with a bitter touch of savoury spice and a hint of sour citrus, while a layer of fine tannins lingers. The 2020 is a very beautiful and balanced wine for medium-term cellaring." Vinous

"Bright and fragrant, with a lush creaminess that carries flavours of strawberry jam, dried cherries, tar, tea roses and singed orange peel. Well-spiced and minerally, with slightly chalky tannins that provide fine definition." Wine Spectator

"The Santa Cecilia 2020 is one of Sicily's iconic wines, a Nero d'Avola clothed in elegance and precision. The wine is softly structured and multi-layered with dark fruits, black cherries, spices and sweet tobacco. The Santa Cecilia takes a classic approach with a balance between generous fruit and carefully managed oak." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of blackberries, flowers and dark earth with a hint of fresh black mushrooms. Medium to full body with round and creamy tannins and a delicious undertone. Just a hint of vanilla bean underneath the fruit." James Suckling

"The nose starts bubbly and sweet, with aromas of black plums, cherry and vanilla, then turns savory but still crackly, with notes of pencil shavings, pepper, graphite and leather. The palate doubles back toward juicy fruit with figs and more plums, then shifts again toward that sanguine earthiness, but textured tannins and almost silky acid unify the whole." Wine Enthusiast

Pure Burgundian elegance and Tuscan flavour. A Sangiovese in Riserva quality that impresses with its long, continuous course of flavoursome fruit and carefully extracted tannins. Light ruby colour with garnet-red reflections. Clear nose with notes of pomegranate, raspberry and a hint of saffron. Fresh, juicy and superbly unadulterated on the finish and with great Storage potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium, bright ruby red colour with a brightening rim. Very fragrant nose of redcurrant, rosehip, fresh raspberries, pomegranate and fine spice and thyme. Very fresh and juicy on the palate with tightly woven, elegant tannins and a long, pleasantly fresh finish." Falstaff

"The 2021 Riecine di Riecine, 100% Sangiovese, is a bright, concentrated offering. Blood orange, cinnamon, cedar and vibrant red fruit flavours are beautifully brought out. The 2021 is another excellent wine this year." Vinous

"Lots of flavours of blackberries, black cherries and lilacs follow through to a medium body with crisp acidity and a tangy finish. Lots of crisp fruit and a whole heap of berry character. Flavoursome and tangy." James Suckling

"The organic Riecine 2021 Riecine is a pure Sangiovese from the vineyard in front of the winery. It is a distinctive expression with an attractive dusty or chalky note that first appears on the nose. These mineral notes frame dark fruits and ripe cherries. The emphasis here is on elegance, freshness and crisp fruit." Wine Advocate

Dark, aromatic, full-bodied Lagrein Riserva. Smells of dark fruit, herbs, liquorice, toasted oak and minerals. Expansive and very generous on the palate, profound and endowed with marvellous minerality. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, shiny purple red with a fine rim. Dense and concentrated nose of fully ripe blackberries and cranberries, with dark chocolate and a hint of lavender. Smooth on the palate, concentrated fruit on a velvety carpet of tannins, still somewhat youthful, but of great elegance." Falstaff

"Deep cherry and plum flavours combine with sage, white pepper and cloves as the Porphyry Lagrein Riserva 2021 shimmers from the glass. Silky on the palate, the tension quickly increases as the tart wild berries saturate and the grippy tannins gather towards the end. The wine finishes with dramatic length and a powerful structure. Bitter notes of liquorice linger." Vinous

"Inviting aromas of balsamic, vanilla and clove; lush black fruits and smooth, rounded tannins on the palate." Decanter

"Creamy and fine-grained, with a supple palette of pureed blackberries, black cherry compote, violets, thyme and graphite notes. This medium to full-bodied version is elegant, with fine-grained tannins that define the lingering, savoury finish." Wine Spectator

"Lively and attractive on the nose, with dark berries, chocolate and hints of cured meat and sweet spices. Exciting and juicy with many layers, a medium to full body and fine, structured tannins. I like the mineral aspect, with notes of shells and crushed stones on the finish. Firm and long. It grows on the finish." James Suckling

Argiano recently caused an international sensation with its Brunello 2018, when the renowned Wine Spectator ranked it as the 8th best wine in the world in 2023. It is fermented in cement tanks and matured slowly in oak wood; its fruit comes from a 22-hectare vineyard with limestone marl soils. Now comes the follow-up vintage, and it is not only very promising because it already perfectly reflects the extraordinary Montalcino year 2019 in its own unique way.

Dark yet floral in the glass, with a hint of crushed stone and violet pastilles embellishing the black cherries. Energetic yet silky-smooth on the palate, with cooling minerality and juicy acidity that layers masses of tart wild berries over a core of savoury minerals. The primary fruit is young and agile and the grippy tannins, which envelop the entire palate, guide it into a long, savoury final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, concentrated aroma, dark red fruit, touch of orange peel, earthy, pithy and powerful. Lots of substance in the mouth, juicy structure with pressure and freshness, very complex and wide-ranging, ripe with penetrating freshness and flavour, lingers forever with good structure. Already fun now, but will certainly benefit from further bottle ageing." Weinwisser

"Bright ruby red with cherry-red reflections. Dried berries on the nose, slight hints of coffee grounds and black tea, with a hint of liquorice on the finish. Energetic on the palate, precise acidity and good juiciness, plus creamy fruit, flows along fruit-emphasised, still a little young on the final, good foresight." Falstaff

"Brilliant, deep ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Powerful, concentrated fruit nose with spicy hints. Lots of tangy fruit and ripe, grainy tannins that form a very good balance. Long, chewy, deep fruit. This wine will develop well over the next few years." Jancis Robinson

"The 2019 is strongly reminiscent of the village and exudes savoury, sweet herbs, rose and bergamot. Generously weighted with juicy strawberries and cherries, it fills the mouth without feeling heavy. Spicy mandarin provides freshness. Long, chalky tannins caress the palate with increasing firmness as it flows confidently across the palate. Rosemary and sage linger on the finish." Decanter

"Crushed ash stones, cloves, dried black cherries, rosemary and balsamic herbs form a spice box as the 2019 Brunello di Montalcino blossoms in the glass. The Brunello di Montalcino is surprisingly fresh and energising, almost juicy, yet refined and focused, with a silky texture that brings out crisp wild berry and orange tones that slowly saturate the palate. The finish is spicy and long, its energy never flagging, with grippy tannins that tug at the cheeks as the liquorice and cranberry notes fade." Vinous

"The Argiano 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is stronger than the previous 2018 and 2017 vintages, thanks to the precision and focus of its fruit flavours in this balanced vintage. It shows ample depth and volume, with sweet cherry and blackberry flavours leading into gently toasted spice and earth. Floral hints of lilac and iris make a brief but incisive appearance. Velvety tannins and a beautifully concentrated, medium-bodied palate ensure good persistence." Wine Advocate

"Delicious flavours of juicy red cherries, strawberries, rose petals and wild bush, along with hints of juniper and ground herbs. Medium-bodied with firm tannins and crisp acidity. Spicy and savoury with a nice balance and finish. Lots of fruit on the finish. Give it more time to develop." James Suckling

"This wine is packed with ripe cherry, plum and raspberry fruit, with floral, mineral, juniper and wild herb accents adding depth and complexity. There's also plenty of energy and structure, providing excellent balance, with a long finish." Wine Spectator

"Red cherry, then notes of wild mint, with a finish on hints of blood-orange peel. Dense-citrusy drinkability, iodized tannins." Luca Gardini

Il Poggio 2019 slowly unfolds its breathtaking aromas of cherry blossom, blood orange, eucalyptus and raspberry. Initially taut and straightforward, it then unfolds on the palate with ripe wild berries underpinned by slate. The chalky tannins keep it firmly under control. This wine will continue to unfold its complex nuances for at least a few decades. Fantastic depth and energy. Incidentally, Il Poggio Gran Selezione was the first Chianti Classico in the appellation to be vinified and bottled as a single-vineyard wine (Cru) in 1962 - a revolution at the time! SUPERIORE.DE

"Starts with a lot of esprit on fresh fruit notes, then also spicy nuances and fresh flowers; elegant course, polished and of great length, convinces with its elegant style." Vinum

"The 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna il Poggio is a powerful, tight-knit wine that will need a few more years to show its best side. I wouldn't dream of touching a bottle any time soon. Crushed flowers, herbs, mint, orange peel and spices hint at a flavoursome, vibrant Il Poggio made for the cellar. Today, the 2019 is deceptive, but there is a lot of potential in it. It's a super-classic expression." Vinous

"A very juicy wine with aromas and flavours of raspberries, cherries, cranberries, orange peel and flowers. It is medium-bodied with firm, velvety tannins that extend over the entire length of the wine and a clean finish." James Suckling

"The Castello di Monsanto 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto Il Poggio offers a dual approach with plenty of fresh cherry fruit and blueberry on the one hand, countered by light age and spice from balanced winemaking on the other. There are subtle notes of cloves and roasted spices on the medium-bodied finish." Wine Advocate

"This beautiful 2019 emerges from the glass, first showing mineral flint notes and white pepper, then arbutus and cherry, followed by orange and hyacinth. It is elegant with an abundance of tangy cranberry and ripe strawberry flavours flowing in a steady stream across the palate. Stony tannins and steely acidity add tension. Tarragon lingers." Decanter

"The aromas of earth and wild herbs give way to flavours of cherries, strawberries and pomegranates in this muscular version. Tar, earth, iron and sanguine elements intermingle, giving the wine depth and a tenacity that needs a few more years to refine. The core of ripe fruit reveals the future promise of this red wine." Wine Spectator

"The aroma has notes of blackcurrant, then hints of wild mint and nutmeg. The mouthfeel is salty-juicy, with a return of small fruits, menthol and sweet spices. Excellent finish." Luca Gardini

The grapes for this fine white wine from the north side of Mount Etna come from the 3-hectare Contrada Muganazzi in the municipality of Passopisciaro. The skeleton-rich and pH-neutral soils are rich in iron and nitrogen and offer ideal conditions for fresh, acidic and mineral white wines. The wine is matured in equal parts in wood and stainless steel for 12 months on the fine lees. Muganazzi is neither a lean wine, nor is it too full-bodied. It is somewhere in between, with thick layers of peach, apricot and lots of fresh citrus fruit. The mineral notes such as gravel, flint and volcanic ash are very evident. An elegant, powerful Carricante with great drinking flow that clearly shows the signature of the sensitive Alberto Graci. SUPERIORE.DE

"From the estate's youngest vines, located in contrada Muganazzi in Passopisciaro, this 2022 is zesty and quite savoury, with a woody character to the lemon peel and pineapple fruit, and ending with a very salty finish." Decanter

"The 2022 Etna Bianco Munganazzi opens with a floral fragrance of wild herbs and crushed green apples accompanied by a hint of wet stone. It is soothingly round and supple with crisp fruit and juicy acidity balanced by a core of salty minerals and spice. The finish is crisp and long, with a lemony aftertaste that lingers. The Muganazzi comes from vines planted only ten years ago, but it has a depth and concentration that I find very compelling." Vinous

"Lemongrass, dried chamomile tea leaves and a hint of bitter almond and damp hay. Medium body with spicy and flinty undertones on the palate. Subtly smoky finish at the end. Mineral notes on the finish. Pure Carricante. Better in a year or two, but already attractive now." James Suckling

The grapes for the estate's classic Barolo come from the vineyards/communes of Ornato, La Serra, Briccolina in Serralunga d'Alba, Gustava and Garretti in Grinzane Cavour, Roncaglie in La Morra, Ravera in Novello and, from the 2015 vintage, also from Mosconi in Monforte d'Alba. It is more of a traditional, classic Barolo with an exciting bouquet of deep, dark fruit and a pretty potpourri of rose petals, spices, smoke and tar. It is full-bodied and firm on the palate, opening up with plenty of dense tannins, very powerful, with pressure and a full bite on the finish, designed for a long life. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium red; inviting, undergrowth, not intense; good fullness and sweetness, also depth, long, round tannin." Merum

"Fruity and floral on the nose; harmonious, still youthful texture, the tannins robust, the evolution precise, the finish polished and fruity. Convinces with its noble construction." Vinum

"Bright ruby colour with garnet and a delicately brightening rim. Fine stony tones on the nose, delicate wild berries, blood oranges, distantly reminiscent of cold earth. Polished on the palate, on fine notes of black tea, slightly balsamic, tense, deep and salty, comes in many layers." Falstaff

"Beautiful flavours of flowers, fresh strawberries and raspberries are followed by a medium to full palate with fine tannins that extend over the entire length of the wine. Undertones of citrus and spice. The finish is long and intense. Tannic finish." James Suckling

"The historic house of Pio Cesare produces some of its best wines today. This classic highlights the purity of Nebbiolo with notes of tart red fruits combined with sweet and savoury spices, followed by subtle hints of flowers and earth. Sour cherry flavours dominate the palate with soft tannins, savoury herbs and a lively finish." Wine Enthusiast

"Pio Cesare has done a great job with his classic Barolo 2019 (produced since 1881). At the bottom of the front label it says "Barolo Pio" in memory of the legendary Pio Boffa. He was a wine entrepreneur who was immediately respected and loved by all who knew him. The wine focuses strictly on the bright Nebbiolo fruit with aromas of redcurrant and aniseed. The finish is soft with tannins that dissolve elegantly on the palate." Wine Advocate

Poggio di Sotto's Rosso di Montalcino is a fragrant and feminine effort, showing dusty roses and violets with bright cherry and strawberry fruit in the glass. Hints of cedar and floral undergrowth emerge over time to complete the expression. It is silky to the touch and energetic with mineral, ripe red berries, spices and inner flowers carried by juicy acids. Liquorice and a sweet and sour note of wild berries linger along with a gentle layer of fine tannin that only becomes noticeable towards the end. Great development potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with purple nuances. Elegant, expressive bouquet of juicy heart cherry, juniper, saddle leather and undergrowth. Glides silky and with finesse over the palate, fruity-sweet and precise on finely woven tannins, long and recurring finish." Falstaff

"Restrained raspberries, leather, violets and cherry stones with rusty minerality. Supple palate with full body, tension from lifted acidity and dense, velvety tannins. Precise and long-lasting finish. One of the best in its category in a promising vintage." James Suckling

"The 2021 Rosso di Montalcino is dark and intense, with an abundance of smoky black cherries, sage and incense. It has a core of ripe wild berries, underlined by salty minerals and savoury spice accompanied by zesty acidity. The 2021 finishes structured and long, with a concentration that reminds me more of a Brunello than a Rosso, leaving grippy tannins and a hint of sour citrus that keeps me coming back to the glass." Vinous

"This wine comes from my family's historic vineyard. It is a wine that is the result of long reflection, study and experimentation, where nothing has been left to chance: Monte Grande is to be my great Soave wine." Graziano Prà

Monte Grande is the white cru of the house and a blend of 70% Garganega and 30% Trebbiano di Soave of great complexity with ideal ageing potential. Deep bouquet of exotic fruits and rocks with a fine citrus note. Multi-layered and spicy on the palate, intense and sharply focussed, with mineral notes and a pretty salty core. Beautifully crafted acidity, with notes of orange zest and almonds on the long finish. A terrificmasterpiece! SUPERIORE.DE

"A riper iteration, suggestive of dried or later harvested fruit. Tangerines, kumquats and salted quince. There is ample poise, avoiding excess by virtue of a streak of saline freshness and a ripple of volcanic energy. A fine, mid-weighted Soave, showing drinkability over weight and ripeness. A welcome choice." James Suckling

"Opening with aromas of jasmine and white tea that lead to fresh, crisp apples and roasted almonds, this Soave is a wine that is hard to move past the nose. Mouthwatering acidity and a honeyed texture define the wine's palate as roasted orchard fruits, flint and pressed yellow flowers all weave in and out of focus. It is a complex and compelling wine that shows the greatness of this region in full." Wine Enthusiast

Outstanding terroir, terrific grape quality and technical mastery in the cellar have made this one of the most highly prized wines! Beguiling aromas of candied cherry fruit with notes of spice and tobacco. Dense on the palate, very concentrated with fabulous fruit sweetness, subtle acidity and fresh tannins. A hedonistic and at the same time very contemporary dream of finesse and elegance that lingers with long and incredibly deep flavours. SUPERIORE.DE

"Gently shimmering, light ruby colour with a garnet-red rim. Spicy, inviting bouquet of stewed cherries, wild berry jam and juniper, with a touch of clove. Silky entry on the palate, then firm tannins, fresh and with precise fruit, young but with great potential." Falstaff

"Cola, cherry jelly and blueberries. Medium body with refreshing, integrated acidity and ripe, velvety, relaxing tannins. Good laurel finish." James Suckling

The Vigna del Sorbo vineyard is located directly in front of the winery. The south-west facing vineyard with Galestro soils covers 8 hectares at an altitude of 450 metres. The Riserva was first produced in 1985 and has been labelled Gran Selezione since the 2010 vintage.

Dark ruby red with light red highlights. Deep and initially unfathomable on the nose. But any spirit of discovery will be enchanted when it opens slowly and very balanced with red cherries, redcurrants, earth, sage and liquorice, revealing more facets with each passing minute. Finally, the mouthfeel shows a similar degree of extreme flavour balance with very fine but still young tannins. This medium-bodied structure, coupled with the wine's natural acidity, is an important guarantee of its great longevity. Our clear conclusion: there is not only a lot to discover here, but also to admire. Chapeau! SUPERIORE.DE

"Single-vineyard wine from 55-year-old vines in the Conca d'Oro of Panzano: seductive notes of raspberries, spiced up with notes of dried roses and pepper; balanced texture, the acidity fresh, the tannins velvety and long-lasting. Pleasing with its fullness and elegance." Vinum

"Bright ruby red colour, dark. A savoury nose of ripe cherries, wild berries, graphite, dark spices and peppercorns, with a wet earth aftertaste. Juicy on the palate, with tightly woven tannins and superbly developed cherry fruit, profound and earthy, beautiful length, the months of additional ageing have done the wine a lot of good." Falstaff

"Aromas of stems, dried meat, berries and cherries with some dusty earth. The palate is firm and fresh, bright and crisp. It shows a certain texture of cement and stone." James Suckling

"The 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is one of the most backward editions of this wine that I can remember tasting. Dark and almost sombre, the Vigna del Sorbo packs a tonne of intensity into its deceptively mid-weight frame. In many vintages, the Vigna del Sorbo is quite showy in its youth. This is not at all the case with the 2020, a wine that will need many more years to show its best side. With time, hints of lavender, dried herbs, plums and graphite emerge, but the 2020 is clearly a child. There is a sense of youthful austerity (in a positive sense) that I find very appealing. The Sorbo 2020 is a wine for those who can wait." Vinous

"This red is tightly wound, straightforward in profile and full of flavours of black cherries, blackberries, blueberries, fresh loam and minerals, supported by lively acidity and dense, soft tannins that combine beautifully with the tension and silky texture. Shows fantastic length." Wine Spectator

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo 2020 (with an edition of 25,000 bottles) is a generous expression of Sangiovese of unique intensity, showing tremendous precision and focus. This organic wine offers black fruits, grilled rosemary, pressed rose and crushed limestone. All of these flavours have a particular forward intensity that combines with the generous fruit richness for which this sunny vintage will be remembered." Wine Advocate

"A wine capable of expressing itself for years at the absolute top of the typology, Sangiovese with a small contribution of Cabernet Sauvignon, but above all the territory of Panzano. Intense nose, black currant, officinal scents, of citron thyme, then notes of clementine peel. At the sip is savory, with a fruity recall." Luca Gardini

Initially youthfully reserved, it needs to be "coaxed" to reveal its aromas of dried black cherries, mocha and cloves, underscored by a hint of fresh mint. Impressive on the palate with a blend of sweet spices, lush ripe wild berries and a silky texture balanced by lively acidity and a pleasantly bitter hint of dark chocolate towards the finish. Finishes classically dry with dramatic length and potency, leaving a layer of fine-grained tannins that saturate and promise many years of positive development. Allegrini has hit the bull's eye with this wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red with garnet reflections. Ripe fruit flavours of blackberries, cherries and plums on the nose as well as a light tobacco note and some liquorice. Sweet and juicy on the palate with lively acidity and gripping tannins, final with a spicy final." Falstaff

"An elegant red, with a supple texture and a frame of fine-grained tannins, this offers a generous core of plumped black cherry and warm fig. Shows notes of pomegranate seed, mocha, vanilla and spiced orange peel animated by bright, plum skin acidity. Long and creamy on the aromatic herb- and graphite-laced finish." Wine Spectator

"A bold interpretation of Amarone. Refined flavours of liquorice, dried cherries, camphor and menthol echo across a compact, dense mid-palate. At this early stage, the tannins feel largely derived from the oak. But they are not dull, they are mineral and refreshing. Bottle ageing will do this rich Amarone good to soothe the primary fruit and transform the wine into something much more complex. Very good." James Suckling

"Ripe black fruits with cloves, liquorice and cinnamon make for fascination and intrigue. Imposing and muscular with a burst of fine acidity and a luxurious finish." Decanter

One of Italy's best sweet wines cannot be called "Vin Santo" because its high concentration means it does not reach 12% alcohol. However, this is completely uninteresting, because the aromatic, spicy forest honey notes, the sweet fruit balanced by a fine acidity and the wonderful spiciness that characterise this wine do not need any official regulations. It simply tastes delicious. Best enjoyed with strong cheeses, with desserts - or simply take a glass of it "solo" as a dessert. SUPERIORE.DE

"The San Giusto a Rentennano 2016 Vin San Giusto (in a 375-millilitre bottle) is a thick and glycerine-rich dessert wine with dried fruit, chewy caramel, white sultanas and a hint of chocolate or roasted coffee beans. On the palate, the wine is very rich and lingers heavily in the memory until the end. I also perceive a strange mineral note, almost metallic or like a tin can. The wine moves with slow, languid swirls in the glass." Wine Advocate

"The Vin San Giusto 2016 is great. It offers a compelling blend of floral brightness that emphasises its natural textural intensity. Brown sugar, dried flowers, toffee, mint, leather and spice are all beautifully delineated. The 2016 is one of the finest wines I have ever tasted. As always, it's 90% Malvasia and 10% Trebbiano, which has been aged in wood for six years." Vinous

Barbaresco Vanotu is the most powerful Barbaresco from Pelissero and also the top wine every year. Attractive garnet red colour, concentrated, hearty bouquet with fine tobacco and leather notes. Lush, deep and multi-layered in the glass, it offers generous dark fruit, mocha, spices, liquorice, plum and sweet French oak. A spectacular and masculine wine with great ageing Storage potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Shows cherry and berry flavors, framed by sweet spices and balsamic notes of eucalyptus and sandalwood. Though light in weight, this red is firmly structured and balanced, with fine length." Wine Spectator

Montegrossi's delicious Vin Santo del Chianti Classico matures for seven years in traditional Caratelli barrels made from oak, cherry and mulberry wood. It shows a marvellous concentration with thick glycerine that slowly runs down the rim of the glass with thick streaks of amber colour. The flavours are of astonishing intensity with explosive notes of candied fruit, brown sugar, maple syrup, caramel, toffee, butterscotch and dried apricots. With its pleasant and very balanced sweetness, it is a wonderful accompaniment to desserts, foie gras or soft cheeses. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium, shiny brown colour, very high viscosity, oily in the glass. Intense nose of nougat, chocolate, candied stone fruit, cubeb pepper, cinnamon, caramel. Dense, honey-like on the palate, pleasant interplay of sweetness and acidity, long and sweet finish." Falstaff

"The Vin Santo 2013 is a wild, exotic wine. Dried figs, brown sugar, toffee and exotic floral notes permeate this dark, viscous Vin Santo. Plush and flamboyant to the core, the 2013 is magnificent. harvestshould expect a particularly opulent, tropical style." Vinous

"Complex and seductive, this wine is reminiscent of Tokaji Eszencia in its concentration and sweetness, with a little more agility in its flavour. Dried figs, caramel, chocolate, orange peel and mineral aromas and flavours are intense and blend seamlessly into the soft texture." Wine Spectator

Deep, dark yellow colour. Rich, almost opulent impressions of candied apricots, orange zest and traces of fine yellow flowers on the nose. Fabulously viscous texture on the palate, multi-layered, very concentrated flavour of candied fruit with a wonderfully polished sweetness. One of Italy's greatest Vin Santo with a long, persistent finish and made to last. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense aromas and flavours of brown butter, caramel, toasted walnut and dried apricot are the hallmarks of this dessert-style white wine. A balanced version with a seamless finish characterised by lively acidity is elegant overall." Wine Spectator

"The amber colour shines in the glass. Incredibly intense candied oranges, dried figs, English marmalade, vanilla and tobacco. Very toasty on the palate, with a medium to full body. Fleshy and seductive. The length is amazing, and the sweetness is balanced by a powerful, cleansing acidity." James Suckling

"The Vin Santo di Carmignano Riserva 2016 is an understated beauty that opens slowly. It seduces with a hint of sawdust and toasted almonds that fade into dried apricots, nectarines and finally a hint of cocoa. The Riserva flows more like nectar than wine on the palate, with a mix of sweet autumn spice and peach jam, all perfectly held together by lively acidity. The 2016 is surprisingly long, balanced and complex, leaving behind hints of ground ginger and burnt sugar. After almost a minute, your mouth is watering, and hints of brown butter and sweet cinnamon continue. In short, this is one of the absolute best Vin Santos I've ever had the pleasure of tasting." Vinous

"An exquisite bouquet of dried apricots, dates, figs and creamy nougat that dips into the intensely sweet, indulgent palate and perfectly contrasts the wonderful seam of cleansing acidity that shines through to the warming gingerbread finish." Decanter

Only 2,000 numbered bottles of the 2018 debut vintage of the "Vigna del Bersagliere" Morellino di Scansano Riserva were filled. The grapes for the new top Sangiovese from Podere 414 come from a small, organically cultivated vineyard of just 1.3 hectares above the winery. It is aged for 36 months in 500 Liters and then refined for 24 months in the bottle. Bright ruby red in colour. Primary aromas of ripe, dark fruit with spicy notes in the glass. Firmly structured on the palate, again dark fruit, plus plums and earthy tones. It is still young and somewhat angular in the glass, but its exceptional style and good acidity/tannin structure already suggest very good ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intriguing wild berry nose, spiced up with herbal notes; pleasing on the palate, with noticeable acidity, fine-grained tannins, notes of berries, rose petals and subtle spices on the final." Vinum

"A powerful red wine with notes of cloves, dried cherries, cedar wood, orange peel and olives. It is medium to full-bodied, creamy in texture, with firm, still relatively stable tannins. Walnuts at the end. Let it mature." James Suckling

The Vigna del Sorbo vineyard is located directly in front of the winery in the municipality of Panzano. The south-west facing vineyard with Galestro soils covers 8 hectares at an altitude of 450 metres. The Riserva was first produced in 1985 and has been labelled Gran Selezione since the 2010 vintage.

This organically grown Sangiovese from a single vineyard is characterised by its impeccable balance, purity and beautiful intensity. Fresh on the nose with aromas of red cherries and lemon thyme. Vigna del Sorbo has a pronounced fruitiness on the palate, which contrasts beautifully with the spicy and tobacco-like notes. This is closely followed by a lovely acidic note, salty tannins, great compactness and spiciness. All of this, together with the supple and delicately sweet tannins, makes this Gran Selezione an unforgettable exceptional wine full of vigour and elegance in this vintage too! SUPERIORE.DE

"Single-vineyard wine from old vines in the Conca d'Oro of Panzano: Seductive stone fruit aromas, also notes of dried roses and herbs; youthful texture, acidity and tannins in balance, the finish leaves you wanting more. Powerful yet elegant style." Vinum

"Dark, sparkling, intense ruby red colour. Spicy, savoury bouquet of ripe cherry and wild berries, with notes of leather, cayenne pepper and undergrowth. Fresh on the palate with a precise fruit centre, tightly woven tannins, with a fine spiciness on the long finish." Falstaff

"Wow. This wine is rich and decadent, with notes of cherry, orange peel, stone and terracotta as well as crushed stone and cedar. It's medium-bodied with a solid fruit core and a very long, lingering finish. Extremely structured." James Suckling

"The 2021 unfolds leisurely from a smoky layer of incense to dusty, sun-baked earth and black cherry. The palate is powerful and robust, with dense fruit, hints of clove and cedar and the purity of blackcurrant. A loamy, terracotta-like texture is accompanied by generous, chewy tannins. There's enough here for a long rest in the cellar." Decanter

"The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is an absolute stunner. Deep, complex and explosive, the 2021 captures all the magic of this year in abundance. Black cherry, lavender, mocha, spices and liquorice pour from the glass. It's a wine of statuesque beauty and elegance that almost casts a spell over you. I would not be in a hurry to drink it." Vinous

"The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Panzano Vigna del Sorbo is somewhat more delicate, even subdued, compared to its new brother, the more opulent Terrazze San Leonlino. Aromatically, the Vigna del Sorbo is a little more self-centred, but shows just enough complexity and beauty to believe in its future ageing potential. Even now, tasted so young, the wine's pedigree is evident. It is characterised by its complexity and depth. The tannins are velvety soft, and gentle mineral flavours give it a special note. The Vigna del Sorbo is one of my favourite wines from this region from 2021." Wine Advocate