Vinous | 95–100 Points

Campania's winegrowers look back on 2019 as a dream year with joy and satisfaction. Everything was just right here and the quality and quantity of the grapes harvested left little to be desired. Full, rich ruby red colour. Captivating notes of black cherries, cocoa, graphite and sweet spices on the nose, with white smoke and dried flowers in the background. On the palate, it has a beguiling extract sweetness and further fruity textures, which interweave with salty flavours and a subtle minerality that make up a typical Terra di Lavoro. The polished tannins and a hint of graphite round off the endlessly long flavour experience and make the wine a true beauty to remember. Challenging and tantalising, just the way you like it! SUPERIORE.DE

"Year after year, this blend of Aglianico and Piedirosso produces one of my favourite wines from Campania. The grapes (from a blend of 40% younger vines and 60% vines up to 25 years old) are grown at an altitude of 450 metres on volcanic soils between Sessa Aurunca and Galluccio, which are predominantly west-facing. It is fermented in stainless steel with selected yeasts and matures for 12 months in French oak barrels. It has a dark purple-red colour and shows restrained notes of cassis, Modica chocolate, fresh leather and black olives. The attack is firm, broad and refined, with youthful, grainy tannins of great extraction on the mid palate, followed by a sweet aftertaste. Dark fruit acidity is abundant, well integrated yet brilliant, giving the wine a relaxed drinkability." Decanter

"The Galardi 2019 Terra di Lavoro shows pretty density and concentration that offers firmness without feeling heavy or too thick. The bouquet does show a savory character of charred spice and cured tobacco that follows dark fruit and baked plum. This is a very elegant, medium to full-bodied Campania red." Wine Advocate

"The Terra di Lavoro 2019 seduces with a dramatic bouquet that blends wild blueberries with crushed violets, cloves, dried orange peel and a lovely hint of sweet smoke. This wine is a model of elegance, velvety yet cool in flavour. A lively, acidic core keeps masses of ripe red and black fruit in constant play. The tannins are chiselled, creating a crisp feel, and although the wine is structured for the long haul, it remains surprisingly fresh and graceful. The sophistication and balance of this wine tantalises the imagination. The 2019 is not to be missed." Vinous

"The polished oak is immediately noticeable on the nose, but then comes a fabulous array of black fruits with dark plums, blackcurrants and berries, as well as some coffee cream and chocolate. Full-bodied and intense with silky layers of fruit, dark chocolate and fine, grainy tannins that pick up many of the fruit and flavour aromas and lead into a long finish. Delicious to taste now, even to drink, but it will improve in bottle. Best from 2023 onwards." James Suckling

Since the 2015 vintage, Le Ragnaie has been vinifying another single-vineyard Brunello, which comes from the famous Montosoli vineyard and therefore also bears the black label. Only just under 3,000 bottles of the 2018 vintage will be released, and we are delighted that we were able to obtain at least a few of them. On the nose, graceful tones of wild cherry, pressed blueberries and small blue violets growing deep in the forest. The flavours are more vertical, with cola and medicinal tones rising straight from the top. The attack is compact and lean, with a long, medium-bodied persistence that leaves a precise and sharply drawn trail of fruit flavours. This expression and class can only be found in the wines of the Montosoli vineyard and this wine, rich in finesse, is a real treat! SUPERIORE.DE

"A fluid, iron and tobacco-coloured red wine with a core of cherry and blackcurrant flavours surrounded by a firm, well-integrated structure. The finish has earthy and savoury accents of Mediterranean scrub. Shows excellent harmony and finesse." Wine Spectator

"To preserve freshness, Riccardo Campinoti bottled all his Brunello a full year earlier than usual and reduced time in wood from 36 to 30 months. Nevertheless, Casanovina is even more closed than when I tried it a year ago, right after bottling. Of Le Ragnaie’s four new releases, this is the most complete and boasts the ripest, most dignified tannins, although they are still firm. Aromas are redolent of red berries, violet, fennel and lilac. It will need time to reveal its full potential, but for now, crunchy fruit and steely acidity distinguish the mineral-led, energetic palate." Decanter

"The Brunello di Montalcino Casanovina Montosoli 2018 is one of three single-vineyard wines released by Le Ragnaie. It displays fresh and rich fruit flavours of dark cherries, pressed blueberries and mild spice. You can feel the soft richness of the ripe fruit. There is also a pronounced mineral signature with chalky gravel, which contributes to the dryness and powdery tannins of this wine. Despite all this, a sweet cherry note lingers on the finish. It needs a few more years to develop." Wine Advocate

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Casanovina Montosoli is a sleeping giant slowly coming to life, with a bouquet of dusty roses and brown spices over a core of dried black cherries. The palate is like crushed velvet, but surprisingly light and graceful, while dark red fruits and mineral tones soak the senses in primary concentration and linger with a hint of balsamic herbs. The fine tannins linger in beautiful contrast to the crackling residual acidity, giving the impression of youthful structure and balance. There is so much inner beauty here, but it will take years for the 2018 to fully come into its own." Vinous

Eucalyptus and red berries on the nose. Energetic, deep and elegant Barbaresco with a cornucopia of fruit, plus some rose petals and spices. Wonderfully polished style, one of Pelissero's great wines. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2018 Barbaresco Tulin strikes a compelling middle ground in Giorgio Pelissero's range. It has the richness usually found in his wines, but a good bit of freshness too. Floral and spice overtones weave into a core of red/purplish berry fruit, lending striking inner perfume and energy throughout. Nicely delineated and impeccable in its balance, the Tulin is impressive today." Vinous

Passito Seré is not a new wine from Dal Forno, but the former Recioto DOCG, which is now being marketed as an IGT - if you get to see or drink it at all. Incredibly rich and dense, lots of ripe, dark fruit and roasted coffee beans on the nose. Opulent and generous on the palate, the sweetness shows excellent balance. A particularly structured and almost magical dessert wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"Has a tantalising nose of plums, tar, espresso and dried nuts. Full to medium body, with good supporting tannins that become chewy on the finish, and plenty of dark chocolate and mocha lingering at the end. It will be well worth the wait. Super intense and multi-layered. Like a little vintage port." Wine Spectator

"Dense garnet color, with aromas of fresh figs, cherries, prunes and dark chocolate. Dense and silky with stunning dried prune flavors, a full body and super-lively cleansing acidity despite. A meditation wine with definition and depth. A rarity." James Suckling

"The Rosso Passito Vino Dolce Vigna Serè 2003 is incredibly fresh. It opens like a dusty cedar box with a sweet blend of cloves, cocoa, cherry sauce and dusty rose, lifted by a hint of fresh mint. The whole flows across the palate like pure silk, seamlessly smooth yet surprisingly serene and delicate. Masses of ripe red fruits and inner spices are carried by a zesty acidity. It leaves a hint of raspberry jam and cloves and finishes with incredible length and freshness, making the 2003 a dessert in a glass, but also too easy to drink. And all this with only 140 grams of residual sugar per Liters. The Rosso Passito Vino Dolce Vigna Serè was not allowed to be bottled as a Recioto because it did not fulfil the "specific characteristics" of this category. Marco is of the opinion that this is the best Recioto his father has ever made, even if it cannot be labelled as such." Vinous

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

"Bright ruby red colour. Wonderfully fragrant floral nose of fresh violets, juicy cherries, rose hips, blood oranges, with an aftertaste of elderberries and dried macchia. Very polished, with cool fruit on the tongue, very juicy on the palate, with youthful, grippy tannins, a floral finish, powerful, with currently still somewhat youthful tannins." Falstaff

"The 2020 Suisassi is bursting with fresh blueberry, lavender, mint, spice, black pepper, cloves and incense. This brisk, vibrant Syrah is quite charming. The mid-weight, intensely savory style offers tons of freshness, a rarity on the Tuscan coast." Vinous

"Very attractive aromas of meat, spice and blue fruits with cloves and black pepper. Medium-bodied with very fine tannins that are silky and polished. Lovely aftertaste with plenty going on." James Suckling

Tasca d'Almerita recalls the first vintage of their legendary Rosso del Conte from the San Lucio vineyard with this lush Riserva del Conte. Ruby red, the aromas of berries, cherries and spices have wonderfully taken the wood into their midst. A lively taste, dense tannins and an endless finish complete the perfect picture. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, elegant ruby red. Restrained, yet balanced nose, appears multilayered, albeit filigree. On the palate very juicy, dense, with clear fruit and tightly meshed enveloping tannin, shows elegant pressure, builds up in many layers, great length and finesse." Falstaff

"Deep crimson. A little less immediate and floral than the normal 2016 with brooding fruit and touches of dark spice. Tightly wound and still very embryonic fruit palate with vibrant, almost linear acidity. The fruit slowly unfurls on the palate over a rich layer of polished, fine tannins. Finely balanced but in need of much more time." Jancis Robinson

"The 2016 vintage was characterised by a mild and dry winter, a cool spring and a summer with well-distributed rainfall. Summer temperatures were not very high and ensured a slow and complete ripening of the grapes. Grapes were harvested on 29 September. 'The vintage was deemed worthy of being sealed in numbered bottles,' said Corrado Maurigi, estate manager. The wine is extremely youthful with a vinous, violet character. Vibrant red cherry fruit dominates over a balsamic whiff, with a floral bouquet in the background. Silky first, then velvety, it's a precise and crisp wine - although lacking layers at the moment due to the youthfulness." Decanter

"The 2016 Riserva del Conte Vigneto San Lucio keeps you at the edge of the glass, with a dark yet gorgeous display of licorice-tinged currants and plums complemented by notes of stone dust, mint and hints of spiced orange. This is elegance personified, casting a polished display of black cherries across a core of vibrant acidity, complementary notes of sour citrus and wild herbs mounting toward the close. You hardly notice its tannic heft until the very end, as this tapers off with harmony, showing classically dry, persistent yet still so enjoyable, even at this young stage. That said, the best is truly yet to come, and collectors will benefit from cellaring this for at least another three to five years." Vinous

"Only made in the best vintages, the Tasca Conti d'Almerita 2016 Sicilia Contea di Sclafani Riserva del Conte Tenuta Regaleali sees its fruit sourced from the Vigneto San Lucio in a classic winemaking subzone on the western side of the island. Made with a blend of the indigenous grapes Perricone and Nero d'Avola, the wine is streamlined and elegant with enormous persistence that can be counted in many long minutes. The bouquet shows dried cherry, plum, leather and a touch of scorched earth or grilled rosemary. This is a spectacular wine that sits at the top of the Sicilian wine pyramid. I love the mineral interlude with granite and crushed slate that appears on the close." Wine Advocate

Passito Seré is not a new wine from Dal Forno, but the former Recioto DOCG, which is now on the market as IGT - if you get to see it or drink it at all. Incredibly rich and dense, lots of ripe, dark fruit and roasted coffee beans on the nose. Opulent and generous on the palate, the sweetness shows excellent balance. A particularly structured and almost magical dessert wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"Labeled as “air-dried sweet red wine” instead of its traditional name “Recioto,” this is indeed a powerful and generous wine. It boasts huge density and superintense aromas of blackberry, oak spice and tobacco. Keep it for your cellar." Wine Enthusiast

"Bright deep ruby. Intense but refined aromas and flavors of red cherry jam, licorice cocoa and flinty minerals, with a bright violet topnote. Lively but harmonious acidity really lift and extend the rich high concentrated and multilayered flavors on the long, luscious and very precise finish. In many respects, this is always my favorite wine from Dal Forno, as I find it has impeccable balance (14% alcohol, 150g/L r.s. and 7g/L total acidity) and a very high easy-drinking quality (especially given a rather crazy-high 56g/L dry extract). The extremely high quality of this wine (it used to be labeled as a Recioto della Valpolicella) and Dal Forno’s exacting standards are well demonstrated by the fact that he has only made this wine six times in the roughly thirty year lifetime of the estate! Even though the 2004 vintage was marred by an early July hailstorm, this is one of Dal Forno’s best Reciotos ever." Vinous

"The 2004 Passito Rosso Vino Dolce Vigna Seré is a masterpiece that is impossible to repeat. In fact, the wine has not been produced since 2004. Even if a vintage as good as this did come along, we'd need to wait another 13 years before we could enjoy this level of maturity and evolution. Formally a Recioto della Valpolicella, this sweet red wine is made with air-dried fruit as local tradition dictates. Luckily no botrytis set in that year, because that would have eroded the wine's deep and luscious color saturation. The bouquet delivers a generous flow of dark spice, bitter chocolate, espresso, raisin, plum, barbecue spice and teriyaki smoke. The concentration and layering of the wine are both rare and distinctive. The mouthfeel sees sweet flavors with a syrupy mouthfeel. The finish offers hints of caramelized brown sugar and savory hickory. The aging window is impossible to predict, but the wine is surely built to last. I can think of no other wine that comes close to matching this unique style." Wine Advocate

Silvia Vannucci's new Riserva flagship Uva dei Colombi comes from a selection of vines from the Piaggia vineyard, all of which were planted in 1972. Only 1,000 bottles were produced. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Carmignano Riserva Uva dei Colombi 2019 seduces with a bouquet of dried flowers and ash stone that fades into mentholated herbs and blackcurrants. Silky and refined, it reveals a core of tart wild berries and sour oranges, motivated by zesty acidity, while mineral and savoury herbal tones build towards the finish. It finishes with impressive length and concentration, but is not overly structured. Round tannins frame the experience nicely without slowing the momentum. This is a great new Carmignano Riserva from Piaggia that will age beautifully on balance alone." Vinous

After much anticipation, today we present the second vintage of an exceptional Sangiovese from Querciabella's single vineyard Ruffoli.

Back in 2007, the winery embarked on the cru project with the aim of emphasising the natural elegance and vitality of Sangiovese and the essential value of what the Latins call the "genius loci". What began as an experiment and a challenge evolved into years of constant but calculated work to identify the best vineyards in Chianti Classico. The best winemaking and ageing methods were then applied to enhance the particular influence of the origin on the texture, flavour and character of the wine.

The altitude of over 500 metres above sea level identified in this way gives the wine great depth, balance and brilliant acidity. This great Sangiovese acidity combined with well-ripened tannins, excellent structure and just as much flavour make 2018 one of the most balanced vintages of the last decade. The slow maturation in wood for around 18 months reinforces the site-specific identity of the grape variety and brings a Chianti Classico to the glass that deserves the designation Gran Selezione like no other. SUPERIORE.DE

"Again focuses on the charming side with plenty of sweet fruit and a velvety drinking flow, with herbal notes alongside the red berry fruit flavours." Weinwisser

"Bright ruby red colour. Nose of precious wood, rich wild berries, citrus, cherries, toast, liquorice, eucalyptus, after some time coconut. Polished on the palate, with juicy, tightly meshed tannins and well-developed fruit, currently still with some wood overhang, coconut on the final." Falstaff

"Medium garnet red colour and a hint of oak on the nose. The particularly ripe fruit belies the extremely appetising character of the carefully selected Sangiovese parcel from which this wine comes. Chestnut notes and still a lot of tannin." Jancis Robinson

"This is my first tasting of a Gran Selezione from Querciabella. The 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Querciabella sources its fruit from the Ruffoli estate in Greve in Chianti, whose vines are planted on slate-rich galestro and sandstone soils at a cool altitude of 500 metres. This vintage is open and accessible, with warm fruit, tobacco, gravel and dried roses. There is a hint of soft, ripe cherry." Wine Advocate

"Sweet plums and damsons with a balsamic note. Juicy and delicate with fine-grained tannins that frame the wine beautifully." Decanter

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2018 is a powerful, dense wine. The frost in 2017 affected the potential yield of the next vintage, which probably explains the sheer intensity of this wine. Dark cherry, plum, mocha, leather and sage all saturate the palate. The wine has tremendous creaminess and depth. I can't wait to see how the 2018 ages, as it's a pretty big wine by Querciabella standards." Vinous

"This wine has aromas of dark plum, peach, bay leaf, mint and vanilla. It is medium to full-bodied with a deliciously complex palate. Beautiful interplay of stone fruit, herbs and spices. Long and elegant, with very fine and concentrated tannins. Fantastic purity." James Suckling

"The second vintage of an ambitious project, from the only Ruffoli vineyard cultivated using biodynamic methods, an exceptional Gran Selezione. Wild plum on the nose, with notes of chinotto and bay leaf, then nutmeg. Spicy on the palate, with a fruity, citrusy finish and a long finish." Luca Gardini

Barolo Brunate comes from the heart of the appellation in La Morra and is one of the most expressive Barolos in Ceretto's single-vineyard collection. The vines are over 50 years old and the total production of the wine is therefore negligible. Brilliant ruby-garnet colour. Finely balanced aromas of dark cherry, rose blossom, mint and lavender on the nose, followed by cassis and plum. More fruity on the palate than its "colleagues", then shows its origins impressively with its depth and complexity. A red full of personality and character that will only realise its full potential as it matures in the bottle. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with a delicately brightening rim. Clearly and distinctly characterised on the nose, of mountain mint, red apple, raspberry, also reminiscent of red peach. Tightly woven on the palate, with savoury tannins and beautiful juiciness, balanced and harmonious, keeps coming back." Falstaff

"There's richness to embrace the cherry, raspberry, mint and tar flavors, backed by a line of firm tannins. Nonetheless feels balanced and lingers on the finish, even if this needs more time to knit." Wine Spectator

"Beautiful aromas of wild cherry, allspice, fresh leather and flowers rise gracefully from the glass. The wine delights with mouth-watering acidity and crushed red fruits such as raspberry and strawberry, accompanied by balsamic notes. It has a juicy and round profile, is well integrated and ready for ageing." Wine Enthusiast

"The Barolo Brunate 2019 is great. In this tasting, we clearly moved from Barbaresco to Barolo. Rich, creamy and inviting, the Brunate has great depth and a remarkable textural resonance. The attack reveals red fruits, spices, tobacco and cedar, followed by an array of spicy and floral notes that unfold effortlessly. The Brunate has incredible energy and class." Vinous

"The fruit in this wine comes from one of the most distinctive crus in the appellation, which is known for its elegant and powerful wines. The organic Barolo Brunate 2019 has power and a good amount of muscle, while the wines from La Morra are softer and silkier overall. However, this wine shows dark fruit flavours, a beautiful chalky minerality and fragrant iris. Everything is presented with nuanced intensity." Wine Advocate

"RIpe, sweet, floral marmalade tones on the nose, burnt/toasted pastry, a smell of baked fruitcake, which for me is so wonderfully seductive about Ceretto wines. Stylish and lean, this wine has great charm despite its power. Dense but supple tannins fill the mouth, powdery and slightly metallic, with a marvellous minerality, but also cola, dark chocolate, raspberry and pink flowers. It is taught and direct, not so much friendly, but so well crafted with drive and persistence. It is lively and open, it wants to charm, and it does, but in a calm, compelling and direct way. Full of character and delicious. The finish is slatey and leaves the saltiness behind. Powerful and penetrating all the way through - simply excellent." Decanter

"The purity of the fruit and flowers is exceptional with flavours of lavender and blue berries leading to a medium to full body with ultra-fine tannins and a long and racy finish. It will be better in four or five years, but is already showing its greatness. One of the greatest Brunates from here in a long time." James Suckling

This is the second vintage of the currently only Bolgheri Superiore that is produced apart from the classic French Bordeaux grape varieties. It consists of 50% Sangiovese and 50% Syrah. Two grape varieties that the Sattas have studied for several decades and whose quality has convinced us and the international critics for many years. Marianova combines great aromatic breadth with gigantic drinking pleasure and at the same time underlines the great individuality of the winery like no other wine.

Bright ruby red. A potpourri of spicy notes on the nose: spicy from the Syrah and crisp from the Sangiovese. Small red ripe berries and some blackberry essence mingle with damp earth, smoke, tree bark and tar. This exceptional wine is carried by a bouquet of dark fruits and a fresh acidity, its impressive finish is endlessly long and powerful. SUPERIORE.DE

"Shiny, rich ruby. Eröffnet with fine notes of raspberry and blackberry, shows itself open and accessible. Firm, gripping tannin on the palate, grippy, salty and spicy, still a bit rough on the final." Falstaff

"Marianova is the blend which debuted when Michele Satta's son Giacomo joined the winery. It comprises 50% Syrah and 50% Sangiovese fermented in oak (including malolactic fermentation) with 30% of whole bunch grapes aged in oak and amphora. Mostly ruby, focused on raspberry and black pepper with depth of graphite minerality, shows a graceful palate, ripe and crunchy, tense due to a firm acidity with a slightly bitter finish which enhances the length." Decanter

"This compact red evokes blackberry, black currant, leather and black pepper flavors, with formidable tannins leaving an astringent finish. Needs time." Wine Spectator

"Lots of violet, spice and dark-fruit aromas follow through to a full body with firm, chewy tannins that are focused and fine-textured. Savory finish. Drinkable now, but better in 2023." James Suckling

"The 2018 Bolgheri Superiore Marianova is the finest wine I have tased from Satta. It offers superb depth and varietal intensity but with no excess weight at all. Sweet dark cherry, tobacco, menthol, licorice, incense and dried herbs soar out of the glass. There is an understated intensity here that is absolutely beguiling. A spine of supporting tannins lends energy. This heady Maremma red is a total knock-out. What a wine!" Vinous

Here is another outstanding 2019 Brunello from a winery that is still considered an insider tip given its small size and limited annual production. Medium, bright ruby red colour. Exotic aromas of minerals and citrus fruits, reminiscent of red cherries, blood oranges and Asian spices, with a floral nuance that gains strength with air. The palate is supple and expansive, with sweet flavours of red cherries and dark plums carried by a powerful acidity. Densely packed, at once fleshy and broad, but also lively and precise. On the strikingly long finish, it shows excellent power and cut, characterised by youthful, dusty tannins and a hint of candied violets. As is so often the case, this is one of the best Brunellos of the vintage and still completely under the radar of many Sangiovese lovers. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dense fruity bouquet, ripe red fruit, coffee. Juicy, creamy, dense, modern, intense, concentrated, creamy frame, warm final." Weinwisser

"The Brunello is made from the oldest vines, a single vineyard of one hectare planted in 1992. The warmth of south-east Montalcino is perceived in the aromas of Mediterranean shrubs and macerated cherries. A hint of nutmeg and iron gives the wine an added flavour. A full, shapely and enveloping Brunello that finds balance and lightness in its generous proportions. On the palate, it reveals a wonderful purity of black and redcurrants, and the compact, powdery tannins leave a clean finish. The final shows intense orange flavours." Decanter

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is simply stunning. It rises from the glass with a bouquet that combines minty herbs and hints of cocoa with sweet spices and blackberries. The palate is lapped by a texture of pure silk, introducing waves of polished red fruits and oranges, while rosy, floral notes build towards the finish. Although tannic and classically dry, the 2019 retains a lovely inner freshness, leaving a pleasant bitter tang and salty liquorice notes that slowly fade away. This is a fabulous result from Sesta di Sopra and an excellent representation of the Castelnuovo dell'Abate terroir." Vinous

"Subtle and refined on the nose with fresh flowers, sweet berries, orange peel and red cherries. Medium-bodied with ultra-fine tannins that run the length of the wine. Racy and focused with finesse and drive." James Suckling

Back in 2007, the winery embarked on the cru project with the aim of emphasising the natural elegance and vitality of Sangiovese and the essential value of what the Latins call the "genius loci". What began as an experiment and a challenge evolved into years of constant but calculated work to identify the best vineyards in Chianti Classico. The best winemaking and ageing methods were then applied to enhance the particular influence of the origin on the texture, flavour and character of the wine.

The altitude of over 500 metres above sea level identified in this way gives the wine great depth, balance and brilliant acidity. This great Sangiovese acidity combined with well-ripened tannins, excellent structure and just as much flavour make 2019 one of the most balanced vintages of the last decade. The slow maturation in wood for around 18 months reinforces the site-specific identity of the grape variety and brings a Chianti Classico to the glass that deserves the designation Gran Selezione like no other. SUPERIORE.DE

"Of purist beauty. Finely spiced nose, autumn leaves, hibiscus and rose petals, red berries. Well-dosed power, fine grip with gripping tannins, perfectly integrated into a certain fullness, juicy blood oranges and ripe raspberries, keeps the balance and finesse beautifully, lingers for an incredibly long time." Weinwisser

"Linear bouquet, complex and yet seductively elegant; full-bodied, the ripe acidity and fine-grained tannins in balance, the finish is incredibly long with numerous fruity and balsamic nuances. Fun on its own, but also a perfect accompaniment to powerful dishes." Vinum

"Crimson red. Really very splendid. The appetising nature of Sangiovese is evident here with real breadth and depth. The tannins are present, but only in the background and the acidity is perfectly balanced with the savoury fruit. No excessive sweetness. Already subtle and satisfying. But this wine will certainly have a long life too. Really complete and beautiful." Jancis Robinson

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Querciabella 2019 offers additional density and richness in the form of blackcurrants, spices and floral earth. The wine is very concentrated, has a soft texture and a dry, mineral flavour on the finish. It is classic in presentation and accessible in approach." Wine Advocate

"This red wine has matured considerably and offers intense aromas and flavours of cherry, raspberry, plum, earth and tobacco. The tannins are well integrated yet firm, while the finish picks up notes of wild herbs and minerals. It shows excellent power, balance and complexity." Wine Spectator

"It is attractive with fresh flavours of cherries and raspberries as well as ground cloves, hazelnuts and crushed stones. Full and structured with chalky tannins that are crisp and lively. Steady and mineral on the finish." James Suckling

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2019 is brilliant. Blue and violet fruits, lavender, mint and liquorice come together in this exquisite, elegant Gran Selezione. All elements are wonderfully balanced. The 2019 is a blend from vineyards in Ruffoli (Greve)." Vinous

Graci's fourth vintage Sopra il Pozzo is a "selection from the selection" and comes from the Arcurìa vineyard. It is the red archetype of an Etna Rosso, a Nerello cru with the clear DNA of the volcanic-stony terroir. Light ruby with orange reflections, candied fruit on the nose, cooling firewood, some aniseed and herbs. The palate is silky without being smooth, its subtle wood and delicate acid wire harmonise perfectly with the flanking tannin until the unforgettable, mineral-salty finish. Only 2,300 bottles were bottled. SUPERIORE.DE

"Elegant berry flavours, also fine spicy notes, hot stone, chocolate; polished structure, balanced and perfectly rounded, the tannins fine-grained and well-integrated, supported by the firm acidity." Vinum

"A fresh and flavoursome Etna red wine with fine, firm tannins and crisp acidity. Bright redcurrants, mushrooms and lemon zest. Medium body. Crisp finish." James Suckling

"A graceful red, seamlessly knit and fresh, with aromas and flavors of dried strawberry and cherry, forest floor, dried thyme and mocha. This is fine and creamy, expanding on the palate while still showing supple definition from the taut, well-knit tannins. Long and minerally on the finish." Wine Spectator

"This 2018 shows an elegant cherry and petrol aroma with a medicinal touch. Intense, very tangy and fresh flavours of bitter cherry stones and subliminally sweet strawberries mingle on the fine, juicy and well-balanced palate, leading to a long, salty finish." Decanter

"The Graci 2018 Etna Rosso Arcurìa Sopra il Pozzo is a wine that develops in the glass. It unfolds with a sweet side that contrasts with a savoury or volcanic side. Sopra il Pozzo is a special site within the Contrada Arcurìa at an altitude of 650 metres. The tannins are well integrated and the bouquet is ethereal or almost fragile. This is a feature of this cooler vintage, and it may turn out to have a much longer drinking window than expected." Wine Advocate

"A beguiling blend of plum sauce, rum-soaked cherries, mint and balsamic spice makes the noble 2018 Etna Rosso Arcuria Sopra il Pozzo unmissable. It is a paragon of purity, elevated and refined, with textures of pure silk and pretty red berry fruit dazzling over a core of vibrant acidity. Salty minerals slowly saturate and emerge on the final, along with sweet tannins and a hint of violet pastille that linger on and on. The 2018 Sopra il Pozzo is simply stunning and should not be missed. It is easily one of the top wines of the vintage." Vinous

Etna Rosso Prephylloxera Vigna di Don pepis a breathtakingly elegant, small-production Etna Rosso. Iridescent, pure dark red colour and an infinitely broad fruity aroma. Impeccable balance and structure on the palate. The tannins are present and yet wonderfully elegant and balanced. An explosive wine made from 100 per cent Nerello Mascalese - and from ancient vines in Calderara and Santo Spirito. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2021 Etna Rosso Prephylloxera La Vigna di Don pepCalderara Sottana is a feast for the eyes. The colour alone stuns the mind: a translucent ruby red that misleads the taster into expecting a delicate and lifted effort. The wine opens slowly in the glass, smoky and intense, with hints of ash and rosemary. A core of crushed wild berries and exotic spices comes to the fore. It is highly structured yet deceptively energetic, with silky waves of dark red fruit washing over the palate, leaving a salty hint of minerals and savoury herbs. A complex web of fine-grained tannins squeezes tightly and is balanced by a savoury residual acidity, while the inner flowers and a hint of tangerine slowly evaporate. Patience is required." Vinous

"This seamless, graceful red is long and supple, with a subtle, plump juiciness in the palette of red-hot cherries and dried raspberries, showing notes of fresh loamy earth, dried tea roses and thyme, dark chocolate and smoke. Fine-grained tannins firm up the lingering finish." Wine Spectator

"Dusty and spicy with just a hint of orange peel overlaying some deep, dark berry scents, in the mouth it has a beautiful expression of sweet, concentrated balsam-laced red and black fruits showing levity and balance on a soft palate. There's floral depth to find here, given focus by the bright acidity, while the fine tannins cradle the succulent, joyous fruit. Persistent and vibrant." Decanter

"This wine has impressive depth and complexity with an array of red and dark berry flavours mixed with dark chocolate, ground spice and burnt orange peel. All these flavours lie on a bed of smoked, ashy, dark stone and wet asphalt undertones. Full and deep with very fine, silky tannins. So much tension and power here. It lasts for minutes and ends with a seamless, structured finish. From old vines from before the phylloxera plague. Try it now, but it will age beautifully. Best after 2026." James Suckling

On the full bouquet we find ripe dark fruits complemented by spiced oranges, sage and mint with a hint of green olive. On the palate, velvety textures are contrasted by cooling acids, while polished black fruits wash over the senses, leaving a mix of salty minerals and fine tannins with a hint of violet flowers. The finish is long, packed with masses of ripe blackberries, plums and sweet herbal tones, but also perfectly structured and, for all its youthfulness, very balanced and harmonious. Luigi Moio and his team have interpreted this vintage brilliantly and have once again set new standards with this year's edition of the single-vineyard Aglianico. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, sparkling ruby colour with a slight violet tinge. Intense and at the same time finely characterised nose, aromas of ripe blackberries, cranberries and blood orange, slightly resinous components in the background. On the palate as if from a single mould, present, crisp berry fruit, opens up with present, pithy tannins in many layers, with an emphatically spicy finish." Falstaff

"The Quintodecimo 2018 Taurasi Riserva Vigna Grande Cerzito (with fruit from volcanic soils, ash and pumice) is richly concentrated but also impeccably balanced with a very dense textural base to support an intense bouquet that is interwoven with black fruit, spice, tar and oak toast. The tannins are slightly drier in this wine and the mouthfeel is just a tad more streamlined, giving this wine the tools it needs to become more elegant and fine with extra time in the bottle. It's a classic Taurasi with long aging potential." Wine Advocate

"Aromas and flavours of Amarena cherries and plums with some vanilla from the oak. With a medium to full body, this Taurasi Riserva is almost light on its feet, although it lacks neither tannic structure nor fruit weight. A fine example of a Taurasi that is beautifully balanced from start to finish, without being overly fat in any area. It is already accessible now, but will clearly gain in complexity with some ageing." James Suckling

"Incense and cloves combine with musky blackcurrants and violette pastille to create a darkly seductive bouquet as the Taurasi Vigna Grande Cerzito 2018 slowly blossoms in the glass. It is pure seduction on the palate. It is silky smooth and refined with polished dark red fruits and sweet herbal notes accompanied by a lively acidity. It leaves the palate with hints of liquorice, tarry blackberries and fine-grained tannins, but the mouth demands more. This is pure class. This is a truly harmonious Grande Cerzito that no lover of Quintodecimo should be without." Vinous

Brunello di Montalcino Petroso is only produced in the best years and in an extremely limited quantity - just 1,200 bottles of the 2019 vintage will be released onto the market. The exciting bouquet combines rich dark fruits with savoury spices, sage and violets to create a captivating spectacle. Soft and enveloping on the palate, initially quite feminine, with a mix of vibrant acids and minerals giving way to wild berries and pretty inner flowers. This cool, balanced and savoury wine already shows enormous purity and finesse when young, but with its grippy tannins it definitely needs more years to develop fully. With such a limited production, it is a shame that more people will not be able to enjoy this exceptionally beautiful Brunello. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant and just medium ruby red. A little richer on the nose than the Passo del Lume Spento. Perfumed raspberry and cherry with hints of stone. On the palate, it is very elegant and heavy, with fragrant fruit and firm but polished tannins that linger until the end." Jancis Robinson

"This is juicy and expressive, displaying cherry, raspberry, mineral and wild herb flavors. Fresh and harmonious, with bright acidity and well-integrated tannins providing support, this is still a bit tight on the finish, but everything is in the right place." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Petroso offers a dark, rich, inviting blend of black raspberry, mint leaf and worn leather. Silky smooth and elegant to the touch, it flows easily across the palate, presenting crisp red berry fruit enlivened by lively acidity. A wall of grippy tannins lingers as the 2019 rejuvenates primly and intensely, promising many years of further development. I expect the Petroso to gain weight over time, which will round out this otherwise great wine. The potential here is incredibly great." Vinous

"The character of this wine is more approachable and open. The Le Ragnaie 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Petroso is less ethereal and more grounded, with an obvious delivery of fruit (and more primary intensity) framed by caramel, light tobacco leaf, redcurrant, cherry and wild plum. An herbal element also emerges, with white pepper and something fun reminiscent of cashew celery root. The mouthfeel leans towards chalk, and there's a hint of minerality with wet limestone or rose quartz. The tannins are controlled, the texture is medium weight and the finish is very elegant. These qualities give this wine great potential." Wine Advocate

Montestefano Riserva is exquisite and harmonious from start to finish. Of the Produttori's nine great Riservas, it is the one that best conceals its tannins, as the fruit is intensely fragrant, rich and seductive. For us, it is a synthesis of Montefico, Ovello and Rabajà. Today, Montestefano gives the impression of being relatively accessible, but it will almost certainly go through a few more stages of closure before it fully opens up. The bouquet surprises us with sheer endless complexity and depth. Its silky, polished tannins give an impression of sensual elegance. Crushed meadow flowers, mint, liquorice and dark red cherries are just some of the notes that envelop the deep, long finish. Fabulous! SUPERIORE.DE

"Spicy and mineral nose. Very appetising and complex." Jancis Robinson

"Restrained, but not boring at first. Very mineral nose with peach peel, orange zest, sweet violets and vermouth-like complexity, firm tannins, medium body, crisp acidity and an extracted but classic finish." James Suckling

"The 2019 Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano is perhaps the most complete of the 2019 Riservas at this stage. It offers fine depth, plenty of tannin and an emerging inner sweetness that holds everything together. The Montestefano is a wine of stature and textural depth and my first favourite in this range." Vinous

"Evocative and aromatic, this red features cherry, rose, white pepper, eucalyptus, iron and tobacco flavors. Firmly built, with dense tannins and a savory finish, this is balanced but needs time." Wine Spectator

"Powerful aromas that start with black raspberries, stewed cherries and a mix of sweet and savoury spices. Subtle floral and herbal notes add to the depth of the nose. The palate is broad and rich, with a generous helping of mixed berry jam with crushed pepper and dried herbs. The tannins are masterful with a refined nature that brings out the soul of Nebbiolo and shows how well this wine will age." Wine Enthusiast

Luigi Moio is one of the most famous professors of viticulture and oenology in Italy and the Cru Vigna Quintodecimo is his showpiece in the stable. This wine has a unique and seductive class, richness and elegance that outshines the entire volcanic appellation. The initially restrained bouquet only gradually opens up in layers, releasing new impressions every minute. Violets, ripe blackberries, blueberry skins, plums and white smoke unfold like a magic bag and are found in the energetic mouthfeel together with finely knit tannin and a fresh fruit-acid interplay. The texture is impressively silky and underlines the tremendous elegance and harmony of this exceptional Aglianico, which will reach its most exciting phase in 10-15 years at the earliest. SUPERIORE.DE

"Really dense, crushed, ripe red berries and red plums on the nose, together with a pestle and mortar melange of fresh herbs. The fruit concentration is quite something. But then the full-bodied palate disperses the heavily concentrated fruit into a superb balance of fluid fruit and tannin that offers great drinkability even now. This will only improve with some bottle age. Try from 2023." James Suckling

"The 2016 Taurasi Vigna Quintodecimo is incredibly primary and intense. A massive wave of black currants, plums, exotic spice, roses, leather, wet stone and underbrush blasts up from the glass. It enters the palate with fleshy ripe dark fruits offset by hints of tangerine under pretty violet florals; yet throughout the entire experience, grippy tannins slowly saturate. Bright acids create a surprisingly juicy impression through the finale, even as the 2016 flexes its structural muscle, tapering off persistent and impeccably balanced with hints of licorice that linger long. It’s amazing how approachable the 2016 comes across today, yet it also possesses all of the necessary components to excel over the next two decades in a cold cellar." Vinous

"The 2016 Taurasi Riserva Vigna Quintodecimo reveals a rich and silky texture. Any rough edges have been adequately softened and ironed out with barrique age. The management of the tannins is superb with this vintage of Aglianico. The wine's steady presence offers a taut sounding board for dark fruit aromas, oak spice, campfire ash and sweet, earthy afternoons. The aromas are presented with spicy and vertical intensity. This lovely wine would cozy up nicely to a classic steak with green pepper sauce." Wine Advocate

Unique Supertuscan made from Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. A ripe bouquet of dark fruit and excellently integrated, spicy oak notes, with a delicious hint of freshly ground coffee and cocoa. Powerful elegance, great finesse, polished tannins and admirable independence on the palate. SUPERIORE.DE

"Smells wild - herbal and beautifully floral on the nose with ripe blackberry flavours. Round and supple, full-bodied and structured with fleshy tannins that also have a cool, chalky mineral edge that adds some minerality and freshness to the palate that balances the ripe, sweet black and blue fruits. I like the lingering powdery element and this wine has a certain spiciness and sophistication - cool blue fruits, cola, vanilla, cedar and toast. I find it hard to categorise it as Tuscan, as it smells and tastes more like an old-school Bordeaux or a Californian wine. Massive, heavy, with lots of oak and extraction." Decanter

"The nose captures the wistfulness of one last warm autumn day, with aromas of vanilla and berries floating above an herbal, woody earthiness. On the palate, the berries and herbs swirl together into a mocha finish, but contoured tannins and notable acid balance the fruit." Wine Enthusiast

"Intriguing berry-chocolate bouquet, nuances of spices and macchia; the attack is very supple, the acidity perfectly integrated, in harmony with the powdery tannins, powerful and yet with a lot of finesse right up to the spicy-herbal berry finish. Excellent style." Vinum

"This is a rich and profound wine with round tones of black fruit, spice, smoked tobacco and tarry smoke. The Biserno is shapely and generous with a full-bodied attack accentuated by crushed stone and pencil shavings. This opulent, cellar-worthy wine offers plenty of intensity and texture." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 Biserno is one of the best wines I've ever tasted here. Rich yet vibrant, the 2020 presents a much more restrained style than used to be the norm. There's still plenty of intensity, but energy and vibrancy have replaced volume as signatures. Espresso, menthol, liquorice, cloves and leather are some of the many notes that unfold in this powerful, elegant Maremma red wine. The wonderful flavours of the franc open up the finish effortlessly." Vinous

"A majestic blend of Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, a bouquet that opens with a slight buzz to then reveal itself in its fullness, blackcurrants, with undergrowth, capers from Pantelleria, orange peel, a drink with salty tannins and persistence, with a mentholated finish." Luca Gardini

"Very attractive nose with ripe blackcurrants, spiced chocolate, grilled thyme, hazelnuts and bacon. Also notes of tobacco and cedar. Full bodied, so refined and polished with layers of finely chiselled tannins evenly distributed across the wine and beautifully integrated. Flourishing fruit with savoury herbs, peppermint and violets. Very long and persistent with a steady, mineral impression on the finish." James Suckling

"Dark, bright ruby red colour. Very fragrant and expressive nose of cassis, blackberries, fine mint, a hint of precious wood and milk chocolate, with a rich blackcurrant finish. Full-bodied on the palate, with an enormous amount of sweet melting, polished, embedded in tightly woven tannins, a noble liquorice note, comes back juicy in the back, very long, elegant, powerful." Falstaff

In the Sagrantino di Montefalco 25 Anni, all the elements of a wine full of character multiply exponentially: room-filling aromas of sweet berries, perfectly integrated wood tones, a cornucopia of ripe fruit on the palate, powerful and sensual. Caprai's top wine, which gives incredible pleasure and must be aerated for 3-4 hours when young. SUPERIORE.DE

"Ripe dark berries, chocolate, sweet spices, charred bark, walnuts and a hint of tar on the nose. Full and intense with depth and persistence in the fruit and firm, slightly chewy tannins. Long lasting and earthy finish." James Suckling

"A rich, medium to full-bodied red with a fragrant thread of chopped marjoram, orange peel and spice box that winds through concentrated flavours of reduced cherries, damson jam, red liquorice and tarry minerals. Firm and chewy, but balanced overall, with a tightly wound, well-spiced finish." Wine Spectator

"This darkly hued wine opens with rich aromas of macerated blackberries, preserves, pepper and clove with a hint of violets. The powerful palate is layered with black plums, dried herbs, baking spices and forest floor, all framed by classic firm Sagrantino tannins and finishing with balanced acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"24 months in barriques for the 'definitive' Sagrantino, the culmination of years of research: sour cherry, balsamic notes and star anise, with a hint of wild iris, dense, juicy, savoury on the palate, with notes of undergrowth, black fruits and sweet spices." Luca Gardini

"Rich ruby red with a garnet-red rim. Intense and multi-layered on the nose, with notes of ripe blackberries and Amarena cherries, echoes of violets, dark chocolate and malt, slightly ethereal. Powerful but well-integrated tannins on the palate, builds up in a multi-layered way with a very long final." Falstaff

"The 2019 Sagrantino di Montefalco 25 Anni is imposing, buzzing with a dark mix of dried black cherries, crushed plums, sage, allspice and sweet mint. The texture is exciting, velvety yet cool, weighty yet tangy, washing over the palate with polished red and black fruits and slowly building black tea tannins. An abundance of spice, tobacco and blood orange nuances linger on the finish with tremendous length and concentration. The balance is absolutely fantastic. This is a breathtaking achievement." Vinous