Vinous | 95–100 Points

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 deciduous 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

The Gran Selezione from the single vineyard Bellavista is rich and dark with aromas of wild cherry, smoke, liquorice, menthol and tobacco. Extremely attractive and full-bodied on the palate, firm tannins form the backbone of this virile, potent wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"You smell this and you know it’s a solid Bellavista, with blackcurrants, black cherries, blackberries, blood oranges and orange blossoms on the nose. Medium- to full-bodied with a tight and focused palate that gives such precision in fruit and tannins. It needs another five year to soften and open." James Suckling

"The Castello di Ama 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto Bellavista shows dark color saturation and elegantly restrained aromas of dark cherry and blackberry. The Vigneto Bellavista is one of the Gran Cru sites in this appellation, with vines planted over the tall ridge of a sun-drenched hillside. That special positioning always gives this wine more concentration and complexity, ultimately. There is sweet fruit, ripe plum and spice, and these aromas are framed by a dark slate-like mineral note. The mouthfeel is compact and firm with a beautiful sense of lasting richness." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto Bellavista is a stunner. Dense, powerful and forbidding, in classic Bellavista style, the 2021 packs an immense punch. It is also a very potent wine. All of the Bellavista signatures are present, but they are nearly buried by the sheer intensity of the fruit. Graphite, sage, crushed rocks, lavender, mint and dried herbs all play off a core of cool, dark-toned fruit. The 2021 is a bruiser - a beautiful, vivid bruiser. I can't wait to see how it ages." Vinous

The wine from the single vineyard of the same name is probably the most opulent of the house's selection line. The bouquet has an almost brushstroke-wide presence of ripe fruit, spices and hints of crushed rock. The palate is impressively supple, complex and full-bodied, with a whole bouquet of dark fruit flavours flanked by firm, structured tannins. The Merlot component gives it additional depth and power. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto La Casuccia 2021 is still somewhat closed on the nose, so the bouquet has not yet fully developed. I have therefore extended the drinking window. You can detect characteristic aromas of black cherry, spices and gravel. On the palate, the wine is full of flavour, richly structured and very long. The nose is still restrained, but the mouthfeel is full of vigour." Wine Advocate

"The dark blue fruit is exciting, with blackcurrants, black cherries, raspberries, dark mushrooms and pine cones both on the nose and palate. It is medium-bodied with fine and firm tannins that give it tension and structure. It is rather shy now and will need three or four years to show its true colours." James Suckling

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto La Casuccia 2021 is one of the most open and expressive wines in this range - a wine that hints at the greatness of the year. Crushed rose petals, blood orange, mint, spices, new leather and cedar wood saturate the palate. Silky tannins round off the whole. Sensual and profound, the Casuccia is both extremely enjoyable and very serious. What a wine." Vinous

Warm, very seductive aromas of black cherries, flowers, tobacco, minerals and undergrowth emerge from the bright ruby red. The interplay between the rich fruit and the classic structure is ingenious. The taste captivates with its intensity, luxurious and mysteriously dark. Love at first sight! SUPERIORE.DE

"Stands out positively; gossamer reduction, liquorice, violets, cool herbal spice, menthol and mint, blue fruit, ultra elegant already in the aroma; continues on the palate spicy and drinky, contemporary and classic at the same time, animating for all its power." Meiningers Sommelier

"The organic and biodynamic Pian dell'Orino 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Vigneti del Versante is drinking beautifully right now. Released later than its peers, this Sangiovese showcases the power, precision and elegance of the iconic 2016 vintage. Yet the wine also offers enough distance from the harvest to enable additional complexity thanks to barrel and bottle aging. A dark garnet appearance sets the stage, and the bouquet follows in lockstep with pressed cherry, dark plum, spice, balsam herb and an unexpected interjection of freshly cut red rose. The wine's aromas are delivered with generous and transparent intensity. On the palate, Vigneti del Versante is rich and dense, offering silky tannins with crunch. There is a hint of salty mineral at the very end. Exactly 7,556 bottles exist." Wine Advocate

"Crushed stone, wild herbs and tart black cherries lift up from the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Vigneti del Versante, but that’s only the beginning. With time, this blossoms further, gaining a sweeter fruit profile and autumnal spices with hints of shaved cedar. Its textures are remarkably refined and silky in feel, with an intense concentration of tart red fruits, yet energy is maintained through brilliant acidity, as grippy tannins build steadily toward the close. The Vigneti del Versante tapers off with amazing length, youthful poise and a balanced structure, promising many, many years of positive evolution. This is really something to behold. I tasted the 2016 from a freshly opened bottle and from one that had been opened for two days prior that showed no signs of decline; in fact, it blossomed further. Simply stunning." Vinous

The exceptional single-varietal Merlot L'Apparita is outstanding with its elegance, strength of character, fine tannin and acid structure and endless length. An oenological rarity of Tuscany and not only therefore an object of desire every year. On the nose, a combination of fruity and spicy impressions, excellent the fleshy taste, whose juicy, still quite concise tannin blends well with the warm body. SUPERIORE.DE

"A red of great depth, with a rich, fleshy profile and black cherry, plum, mineral and spice flavors yielding to a firm, racy structure. Shows enticing fruit wed to dense tannins, which should absorb well with time. Classy." Wine Spectator

"Dark, bright ruby red. In the nose on mint, cranberry, cedar wood, in addition elegant blackberry nuances. Shows very polished and multilayered on the palate, opens dark berry in the core with great grip, tightly woven, great length with rich pressure on the finish, can calmly store a bit more." Falstaff

"Enticing aromas of blackberries and violets with some fresh black olives. Fresh violets as well. Full-bodied and very rich and layered with velvety tannins and a long, long finish. Lingering flavours of dark chocolate on the finish. A powerful Merlot. Drink it after 2026." James Suckling

"One of the stars of Italian oenology, this iconic wine is Merlot in name but Tuscan in spirit. L'Apparita is a great wine that gives those who drink it a tremendous sense of excitement and energy. Its texture is soft and rich, yet the tannins are gentle and round. However, it also has plenty of substance and structure, with seamless layers of black fruits, cherries, sweet spices and tobacco. The wine's complexity is enhanced by elegant mineral tones and a subtle, menthol signature. Temperature control and careful pumping over of the grapes are carefully carried out, and care is taken at harvest to ensure that the berries are not overripe. Cool, chalky soils with lots of stones help to isolate the roots and maintain freshness. The secret of this wine is the magic of the location, the exposure and the geology." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 L'Apparita is incredibly powerful in this vintage. Huge, burning tannins envelop a core of dark flesh. Incense, tobacco, chocolate, mocha, lavender and spice open up, but only hesitantly. While most 2019s in the Ama range are quite inviting at this stage, the L'Apparita is a wine for the cellar. In other words, the 2019 is a dense, backward Apparita that requires patience." Vinous

The Gran Selezione from the single vineyard Bellavista is rich and dark with aromas of wild cherry, smoke, liquorice, menthol and tobacco. Extremely attractive and full-bodied on the palate, firm tannins form the backbone of this virile, potent wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, elegant ruby red colour. Spicy nose, leather, pepper, rich cherry fruit, roasted malt, dark chocolate. Full-bodied on the palate, with tightly woven tannins and a stony feel, presses hard on the palate, comes in many layers, still very young at the moment, needs time." Falstaff

"Dark nuances of blackberries, blueberries, violets and iron permeate this intense yet fluid red with a hint of dark chocolate. Despite its fine concentration and beautiful balance, this wine is elegant, with excellent length and lingering notes of fruit and spice." Wine Spectator

"An attractive bouquet with notes of dried strawberries, plum skin, crushed walnuts and liquorice. Full-bodied, compact and structured with velvety tannins and a chocolaty mouthfeel. Very concentrated and balanced. Long, even finish. Better after 2025." James Suckling

"The 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto Bellavista shows a particularly dark and rich character in this vintage, with black cherry, savoury barbecue spice and smoked tobacco. Of the three Gran Selezione editions, Vigneto Bellavista has the darkest and richest character. This full-bodied red wine shows etched tannins and many rich layers of fruit." Wine Advocate

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto Bellavista 2020 is outrageously beautiful. Graphite, crushed rock, lavender, menthol and juniper berries rush from the glass. A dash of Malvasia Nera gives it a strikingly spicy, earthy intensity. Black fruits, gravel, incense and cloves develop over time, framed by powerful Bellavista tannins that need time to soften." Vinous

"A tempting procession of coffee, incense, sweet herbs, moist earth and truffle emerges with each swirl. The palate is a thrilling and energetic tug-of-war with dark, lush fruit set against chiselled tannins. A gravelly texture adds to the drama and intense violet pierces the finish. Generous yet still tight." Decanter

The wine from the single vineyard of the same name is probably the most opulent of the house's selection line. The bouquet has an almost brushstroke-wide presence of ripe fruit, spices and hints of crushed rock. The palate is impressively supple, complex and full-bodied, with a whole bouquet of dark fruit flavours flanked by firm, structured tannins. The Merlot component gives it additional depth and power. SUPERIORE.DE

"The wine is dark and concentrated in this vintage with beautiful tones of ripe blackberry, baked plum, sweet earth and black rose. It has all the classic flavours of the grape variety, only in this case they are delivered with more power and vigour thanks to the warm and sunny growing season. This vintage remains somewhat more accessible overall." Wine Advocate

"Dark, noble ruby red with a subtly brightening rim. Nose of black bread crust, butter biscuits, delicate vanilla, then rich dark berry fruit, precious wood. Powerful on the palate, very juicy, appears cool and fruity, with tightly woven tannins, deep, long, juicy and fresh on the final." Falstaff

"Flavours of plum, blackberry and earth show hints of caramel in this soft, muscular red wine framed by toasted oak. It feels fluid and open until the dense, powerful tannins make their presence felt on the finish. Persistent and fresh, with a long aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"Ripe blue plum and blackberry are embedded with smoke and toasty oak. While this is rounder than Bellavista there is no lack of structure: the dense fruit core is well padded with fleshy, broad tannins flexing assertive muscle. Bay leaf and tobacco impart a savoury edge, pushed by underlying stony minerals." Decanter

"It is beautiful and decadent with notes of ripe red and dark berries with sweet spices, bark and a hint of dried leaves. Full-bodied and dense with finely polished and compact tannins that run the length of the wine. Long and firm with a granite-like presence on the finish." James Suckling

"The 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto La Casuccia is normally a sensual wine, but it's a powerhouse. That's probably a good thing for its long-term aging prospects, but harvestwill have to be patient. Intense spicy and mineral notes give the 2020 enormous complexity. Even in this warm year, the 2020 is not opulent, but it is packed with tremendous intensity and pure power. The reddish fruit of the Sangiovese will emerge with time, but the 2020 will require a certain amount of patience." Vinous

"The dynamic vintage produced rich and structured wines, with each of the grape varieties expressing their particular qualities. We got a classic Ornellaia, combining sunny ripeness with elegance in a wine defined by harmony and proportion."Axel Heinz, Gutsdirektor

"As usual, the intense ruby red Ornellaia 2020 reveals notes of ripe berry fruits and light hints of vanilla and sweet tobacco on the nose. The wine has a velvety soft texture and a pleasant, enveloping mouthfeel that invites a second sip. Its dense yet elegant tannin structure carries the tasty, beautifully persistent final." Olga Fusari, Oenologist

Pure bouquet of red fruits, mocha, spices, cassis, blood orange and tobacco, very finesse for its youth. In the background, very restrained maquis, white smoke and traces of liquorice. Clear and firm on the palate, only gradually revealing a terrific structure and its perfect proportions, fanning out fruit, tannins and a harmonious acidity. One should not make the mistake of opening it too early, it will gain in elegance and depth with the years. SUPERIORE.DE

"This Ornellaia impresses already in the fragrance with a rather puristic, "luscious" bouquet - again more in the elegant Bordeaux style instead of with "Californian" airs and graces as in the past. At the same time, it remains true to its extremely spicy, ethereal, thoroughly Mediterranean vein, i.e. a typical Ornellaia of the more modern years. The clear fruit varies from red to blueberry, underpinned by a wonderful smoky-tobacco graphite note, with hints of cinnamon and sandalwood behind it. Elegant palate with linear orientation, good depth, rather elegant than concentrated, lots of tobacco spice, still very delicate BSA notes, calm and precise, tightly woven, extremely finely contoured final with firm tannic grip. Impressive finish, totally going for elegance. Bravo!" Weinwisser

"Deep, brilliant crimson. Very lush nose followed by a hedonistic palate that finishes particularly fresh. Ripe but not too ripe fruit - a drier (much less sweet) vintage than usual that should age well. Unusually, there is a residual tannin on the finish. It is certainly possible to drink it now if aerated before serving, but ideally I would keep it for a while. Spicy persistence." Jancis Robinson

"The winery's director, Axel Heinz, described the 2020 as "a classic Ornellaia" and chose the theme "La Proporzione" (proportion) to describe its character. Indeed, the blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot marks a return to a more typical blend after the pendulum swung to 62% Cabernet Sauvignon in 2019 and 51% Merlot in 2018. Fine-grained and beautifully structured, its finely integrated tannins support a concentration of black fruits brightened by red berries. Aromas of black cherry, liquorice, dark chocolate, cedar and damp earth make for a fragrant wine, accompanied by menthol and balsamic notes that permeate the wine and give it plenty of freshness. The finish reveals a stony and salty element, along with chocolaty and woody hints. It is dense and tasty, its ripe fruit combined with freshness and structure cleverly telling the story of this vintage, which ripens earlier. In the mouth it lacks complexity - time will tell - but the variety of flavours gives a hint of what is to come." Decanter

"Inviting aromas of blackberries, blackcurrants, anise, cedar, vanilla and tobacco draw you into this red wine that is smooth and open on the palate. This wine is so well balanced that it is immediately accessible, but also has a little reserve. On the finish, the fruit flavours come to the fore, along with mineral and spicy notes, while the lasting impression is a salty, fiery element." Wine Spectator

"The Ornellaia 2020 is a beautiful, elegant wine. Seamless and wonderfully deep on the palate, the 2020 is super refined from the start. For all its depth, the 2020 retains a great freshness and cut to play off its soft, juicy fruit. Overall, the 2020 seems to be a relatively accessible Ornellaia that drinks well with minimal cellaring. I particularly admire the precision and understated finesse of this wine." Vinous

"An all-encompassing wine that evolves over time, always surprising. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot in a (masterful) blend, blackcurrant jam, eucalyptus, juniper, spicy mouthfeel, mentholated finish, very long." Luca Gardini

"La Proporzione - the proportion - is the honorary title Ornellaia gives to this vintage and perfectly proportioned is also this blend of Merlot with Cabernet (Sauvignon and Franc) and Petit Verdot: Intriguing aromas of stone fruit, spiced up with a delicate odeur of fresh flowers and macchia, also discreet wood; superb construction with a lot of pressure and fullness, the tannin thereby precise and still very young, ends long." Vinum

"This is a beauty, so generous and opulent with completely seamless transitions. The wine's traditional blend is mainly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with tiny amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, although this warm vintage comes with a pinch less Cabernet Sauvignon. Fruit is selected from 107 hectares of Ornellaia vines, with the winery recently acquiring a further eight hectares next to Guado al Tasso in Castagneto Carducci, with terraces and vines aged between 15 and 28 years. This broad and generous expression has a wonderful quality of fruit and oak that speaks to the best of Italian winemaking." Wine Advocate

"Seductive aromas of pencil and currants with gravel and iodine. Full bodied with bound tannins that are firm and concentrated. Very fresh and energetic with wonderful length and intensity for this vintage. Needs four or five years to develop. Better in 2028 and later." James Suckling

Complex and exotic bouquet of spices, black olive, rosemary, plum and cherry. Firm, compact and initially introverted on the palate, followed by mint, spices, dark red fruit, cassis and graphite. The flavours come to light rather in slices, with this outstanding red it is worth waiting like nowhere else to fully discover the depth and complexity of this Tuscan jewel. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, rich ruby red with violet reflections. Ripe forest fruits on the nose, some cassis, light undergrowth aromas, some mint and graphite, very complex. Elegant and straightforward on the palate, with plenty of tension and a long-lasting final as well as fine-meshed tannins, lots of potential." Falstaff

"On the nose, this wine is very perfumed with blackcurrants, violets, lilacs and mandarins. Medium to full-bodied with very well integrated and slightly chewy tannins that give the wine focus and tension. A round and fine velvet texture gives this wine wonderful grace and refinement. Unfiltered. Best after 2028." James Suckling

"The 2020 d'Alceo, a blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Petit Verdot, is one of my favourite wines from this corner of Tuscany, and this latest vintage is exactly what I expected. The d'Alceo is certainly a highlight of Tuscany, and in this hot growing season the wine is particularly characterised by its rich and velvety texture. It feels creamy on the finish and offers a whole range of concentrated dark fruits with balanced spice along the way." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 D'Alceo is a wine of stature and greatness. Deep and layered in the glass, the 2020 offers plenty of dark fruit, macerated black cherry, liquorice, spice, lavender and mocha. The D'Alceo is a rich wine, but it is not overdone. It comes from high-density terraced vineyards with a south or south-east exposure, first planted in 1991 and naturally low yielding, giving the wine a rich texture. harvestwill find a D'Alceo with a lot of finesse." Vinous

The exceptional single-varietal Merlot L'Apparita is outstanding with its elegance, strength of character, fine tannin and acid structure and endless length. An oenological rarity of Tuscany and not only therefore an object of desire every year. On the nose, a combination of fruity and spicy impressions, excellent the fleshy taste, whose juicy, still quite concise tannin blends well with the warm body. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2020 L'Apparita opens to a midnight black color and an impenetrable appearance. This Merlot set the benchmark for the grape in Tuscany and continues to do so today, despite the various challenges to an early-ripening variety facing climate change. The 2020 vintage remains rich and opulent, even heavy on the mid-palate, with lots of thick fruit layering and soft tannins. It ends with sweet fruit and barbecue spice." Wine Advocate

"A viscous, salted licorice–tinged red, with plum, earth and spice flavors. Reveals a solid grip of tannins lining the finish, leaving a compact feeling today. Concentrated, powerful and complex, just needs time to come together." Wine Spectator

"Beautiful focus with sage and rosemary to the plum and chocolate character. Some green olives, too. Medium-bodied with ultra-fine tannins that caress the palate. Just hints of vanilla and dried flowers to the fruit. Pretty texture and length to the wine at the end." James Suckling

"Dark, sparkling ruby red. Inviting nose, of fresh blackberries, precious wood, light honey, in addition fine stony tones, fragrant, in the finish delicate of dried flower petals and fine spice. On the palate with radiant fruit and juicy dress, elegant, polished, very well balanced, has high drinking flow despite its complexity, great salty notes in the finish." Falstaff

"The 2020 L'Apparita will soon take its place among the great Apparitas. Unctuous and layered in the glass, the 2020 possesses exceptional balance and tons of character right out of the gate. Exotic scents of blackberry jam, chocolate, new leather, licorice and smoke are so alluring. Imposing tannins need time to soften, but once that happens readers will be treated to a spectacular Apparita that captures all the best the vintage had to offer. Marco Pallanti waited until mid-September (late for the year) to bring in this fruit. That decision paid off handsomely." Vinous

Palafreno 2019 is wonderfully polished and lively. Firm but well-integrated tannins form the backbone for a Merlot that is endowed with considerable energy. Spicy herbs, tobacco and wild flowers add complexity. Very nuanced on the palate, opulent to expressive, then at second glance supple, downright elegant. Almost unbeatable in complexity, depth and richness of finesse, it will reveal more and more of its first-class repertoire in the coming years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red with purple and opaque core. Very spicy on the nose, with dark berry fruit, cherries, blackberries, a hint of sealing wax, cassis and a fine fleshy component. On the palate hearty, compact and balanced, spans the palate with great dark berry fruit, shows noble resinous notes in addition, very exciting and juicy, great length, put away." Falstaff

"This is very polished and structured with a finesse to the tannins which spread across the palate. It’s full-bodied with fine fruit and a driven finish. It needs three or four years to soften and open." James Suckling

"The 2019 Palafreno, 100% Merlot from Greve's Ruffoli district, is stunning, not to mention one of the greatest wines I have ever tasted here. Silky, plush and exceptionally vivid in the glass, the Palafreno possesses breathtaking beauty that captivates all the senses. At this early stage, the 2019 is all primary dark fruit, but the layers will start to open with cellaring. Readers who can find it should not hesitate. It's a real head turner." Vinous

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

Once upon a time, there was a vineyard that was particularly spoilt by the Montalcino sun; it still bears the name Vigna Loreto to this day. Only in the best vintages does a Brunello come from this exposed site that is bursting with richness, complexity and assertiveness. It possesses a textural depth and balance that is captivating. Fruit, spice and very unique nuances such as savoury herbs, liquorice, tobacco and a firm tannin make this impressive wine monument linger on the palate and in the memory for a long time. With every sip, it opens up further layers and you might almost sink into it, such is the shift in the boundaries of what is comparable. The 2019 Vigna Loreto is not only extremely elegant, but also profound and almost outrageously juicy. SUPERIORE.DE

"Opulent nose with woody spice, backed by ripe red and blue fruits (redcurrants, wild berries) with ethereal herbal aromas, also floral notes such as lavender. Rich palate with intense fruit, ripe and taut, framed by grippy, polished tannins and supporting freshness." Weinwisser

"Sparkling ruby-garnet colour with a brightening rim. Opens with notes of smoke and tobacco, then lots of pomegranate and plum, light mineral components. Present tannin on the palate, which is very well integrated over the course, firm pressure, lots of juicy fruit." Falstaff

"Overlooking the River Orcia, the south-east-facing Loreto vineyard rises 400 metres above sea level. Tasted alongside the estate's Brunello, it definitely shows a greater stage presence. Intense plum and cherry flavours intertwine with exotic spices, chinotto and sweet herbs. The inner flavours of the vintage are in the foreground and emphasise the compact fruit. The gravelly tannins support the whole, but are more elegant than powerful. The wine finishes with a hint of liquorice." Decanter

"Blackberries, menthol, sage, stone dust and cloves characterise the youthful, restrained 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Loreto. It flows lightly across the palate, silky with depths of ripe raspberries and sour cherries, while fine-grained tannins saturate the finish. The finish is savoury and long, structured yet lively and stimulates the imagination with its future potential. Hints of cocoa, lavender and topical leaf linger and seem to last well over a minute. I am impressed." Vinous

"This wine shows cracked white pepper and wet slate, giving you a clear sense of place. The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Loreto is precise and well-defined, but as the wine opens up, you get interludes of ripe fruit, blackcurrant and oak spice. The wine is multi-faceted with many layers and angles. The palate is bright cherry with good length that leads into fine, chalky tannins. This wine offers an authentic flavour of Montalcino." Wine Advocate

"A soil with tufa prevalence that gives this Brunello great tension. Red mulberry, notes of lemon thyme and peony. Salty tannins on the palate finish with thyme and floral notes." Luca Gardini

A Riserva is produced in the winery only in the best years, and the result is just over 3,000 bottles of the finest Sangiovese, which presents itself in the 2015 edition undisputedly in the first league of Montalcino. Medium light red, wonderfully balanced aromas and an almost seamless transition from nose to palate. Notes of wild berries, spices and forest floor come together like a team to create a rich, deep and highly balanced growth, which is already on the podium after the first sip. Texture, structure and tannins are not to be surpassed in harmony and leave an impression in the long reverberation, dan one does not forget again. 2015 was a very harmonious and rich year, this Brunello captures the character of the vintage impressively precisely. Chapeau! SUPERIORE.DE

"A full-bodied, structured red with smoke, tar and grilled mushrooms on the nose. Some bitter berries to go with the earthy mushrooms. Chewy tannins and a long, savory finish. Lots of citrus." James Suckling

"The Gianni Brunelli Le Chiuse di Sotto 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is another beauty from this bijoux estate. This wine offers texture and depth, but it does not have the same level of luminosity or brightness that we got in the 2016 Brunello. It shows some charred aromas with spice and ripe fruit, with wide and large ambition. I got a touch of Graham cracker and brown sugar, followed by spice and ripe fruit. This is a long and generous wine, with soft fruit and texture on the long finish." Wine Advocate

"The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino from Gianni Brunelli didn’t leave much room for improvement; yet somehow the Riserva manages to take things to a whole new level. The bouquet alone is absolutely stunning, as you could sit with this glass for an hour and never grow tired of taking in its mix of sweet wild herbs, dusty florals and bright cherry fruit. Sage, lavender, spiced orange and flowery undergrowth complete this already-dazzling expression. It’s deep and silky, verging on fleshy but not quite, as a tactile mix of acids, minerals and fine tannin settle in. That said, while the 2015 Riserva is classically structured and dry, it prioritizes purity of fruit above all else, seeming to hover upon the senses and never grow tiring. Fans of Gianni Brunelli will be very happy to have a few of these resting in the cellar. The Riserva is typically made from a higher percentage of fruit from the Olmo vineyard at Podernovone in the south balanced out by a parcel from Le Chiuse in the north, which adds freshness." Vinous

The exceptional single-varietal Merlot L'Apparita is outstanding with its elegance, strength of character, fine tannin and acidity structure and an endlessly long finish. An oenological rarity in Tuscany and an object of desire every year, and not only for this reason. The aroma is a combination of fruity and spicy impressions, with an excellent fleshy flavour, whose juicy, still quite incisive tannin blends well with the warm body. SUPERIORE.DE

"One of Italy's most collected Merlots, the 2021 L'Apparita opens to a rich and inky-dark appearance. Very true to the grape, this vintage hits impeccable ripeness with soft cherry intensity and spice that is padded by extra textural fiber. Like always, this wine is especially successful in terms of mouthfeel and finish. The bouquet has ripe fruit, softly toasted spice and a hint of olive tapenade. It is quite the mouthful." Wine Advocate

"This shows so much depth and intensity, with a beautiful nose of dark fruit, walnuts, licorice, iodine and seashells. Some wood showing now. Pure and structured. It shows both richness and freshness, with a full body and a compact, seamless tannin structure. Need time to soften. Try after 2028." James Suckling

"The 2021 L'Apparita is sublime. A wine of compelling inner perfume and exotic richness, the 2021 is shaping up to be one of the great L'Apparitas. Inky dark fruit, espresso, licorice, lavender and crushed rocks abound in a towering, statuesque wine that will absolutely thrill those lucky enough to own it. It perfectly embodies all the greatest qualities of this historic vintage." Vinous

Flaccianello della Pieve has dispelled all doubts in recent decades and is the result of extremely skilful winemaking and not only for us one of the best single-varietal Sangiovese in central Tuscany. It has always been the result of an ingenious blend of organic grapes from the estate's best plots. The personality of the wine reveals a certain distance and austerity when young, these impressions are reinforced by spicy tones of cigar smoke and earthy leather. Its inner core is dense and richly concentrated with generous blackberry and plum flavours. The velvety tannins are integrated but still youthful and grippy. Like the Vigna del Sorbo, the Flaccianello is not a monumental and particularly opulent wine, but a very special growth that radiates liveliness, energy and lonely class from start to finish. You should definitely give this elegant wine a little more time in the bottle, if you have the patience ... SUPERIORE.DE

"Promising nose of wild berry jam, with a subtle hint of undergrowth and vanilla; youthful, tight-knit tannins, the acidity provides the underpinning, precise evolution, finishing on flavours of black cherries and hot stone. Timelessly elegant Sangiovese, superbly made." Vinum

"Powerful ruby colour with a slight violet hue. Very appealing and intense nose, showing notes of blackberry and mulberry, some orange peel, some milk chocolate and light tobacco in the background. Polished and precise on the palate, with plenty of fine tannins, savoury and a long finish." Falstaff

"A young red with black cherry, flint, matchstick, blackberry and bark aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied with a solid core of fruit and chewy tannins that show a slightly angular mouthfeel in the finish. Needs three or four years to soften." James Suckling

"Featuring a deep well of blackberry, black cherry, violet, mineral and spices on the nose, this red is rich and dense, saturated with dark fruit flavors, yet with a sense of gracefulness. A light dusting of tannins frames the finish, needing a few years to integrate with the other components. Shows the harmony, freshness and depth of the vintage." Wine Spectator

"The 2021 Flaccianello della Pieve opens to a medium-dark inky appearance and solid aromas of black fruit and pressed blackberry. The Flaccianello is a touch more accessible at this early stage compared to the Vigna del Sorbo, but both wines are undoubtedly built to withstand ample cellar aging. Flaccianello is the more powerful or the two, and the Vigna del Sorbo is more delicate in comparison. These dueling character traits are especially evident in this classic vintage. This wine also boasts a more generous mouthfeel supported by softly integrated tannins." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 Flaccianello della Pieve is another exceptional wine from Fontodi this year. Ripe, silky tannins wrap around a core of dark fruit as the 2021 makes its presence felt from the first taste. Sumptuous, racy and dense, this is just magnificent. As has been the case for some time, Flaccianello is a blend of mostly three parcels throughout the estate but closer to town. " Vinous

Cepparello is one of the great single-varietal Sangiovese classics from central Tuscany. Radiant ruby red. Clean, flawless aroma of red fruits, enlivened by fine pepper accents and delicate mineral nuances. Elegance radiates from the relaxed onset, enveloping palate that delivers a perfectly measured acid framework to a well-integrated tannin to finish long and finesse-rich. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, strong ruby with a light garnet shimmer. The nose is very compact, with dark cherries, lots of blackberries and fine spicy notes. Radiant on the palate, shows lots of ripe red berry fruit, grippy, dense tannin coated with beautiful melting, firm and compact, long final." Falstaff

"Lots of liquorice and fennel seeds with black cherry and a hint of tomato paste. Medium body, round texture and savoury flavours. Nice and fresh on the finish, with subtle flavours." James Suckling

"Fragrant potpourri and medicinal aromas recall the 2006, while the structured palate shows pure, ripe cherry with some damp earth and even an umami hint of mushroom, infused with bright acidity. Vibrant and complex, it's still in its youthful phase but will be great once it's had time to develop." Decanter

"The 2019 Cepparello is very impressive, even though it has just been bottled. Generous and creamy, with its classic medium-bodied structure, the 2019 has so much to offer. Silky tannins wrap around a core of red and purple berry fruit. New leather, spice and a touch of oak meld together effortlessly in the glass. I can't wait to taste it in another 6-12 months or so. The 2019 is shaping up to be an absolute top wine." Vinous

"One of the iconic wines of Tuscany, Isole e Olena 2019 Cepparello is a pure Sangiovese made by the loving hands of a winemaking legend, the great Paolo De Marchi. Indeed, this wine opens a discussion about the future of this famous IGT Toscana, a wine that followed an austere vision and style under De Marchi. It is elegant and rich with delicate aromas of black and purple fruits. It is fermented in oak barrels and aged for 20 months in French barriques, one third of which is in new oak." Wine Advocate

The grapes for this exceptional Chianti Classico come from vines that grow southwest at an altitude of between 350 and 480 metres above sea level. The soil here is characterised by Galestro and limestone. Rich, deep dark ruby with a velvety sheen. Multi-layered, concentrated aromas of plum, black cherry, spices and menthol. Complex on the palate with a multi-faceted flavour profile that only opens up gradually and only reveals its full spectrum to the patient. A parade wine of great depth, class and irresistibility. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, sparkling ruby garnet. Opens with slightly smoky notes, lush cedar, then lots of blackberry and ripe dark cherry, some tobacco in the background. Lush and present in attack and progression, shows lots of juicy, present fruit, opens with fine-meshed, pithy tannin, describes a long arc, good tension." Falstaff

"The 2015 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, essentially a selection of the best barrels of Cepparello, is a gorgeous wine. More than anything, the 2015 is remarkable considering the challenges of a growing season in which rain during harvest created significant challenges. Nevertheless, Paolo De Marchi coaxed all of the potential out of his vines in 2015, adding a good dollop of Petit Verdot to the Sangiovese in crafting the Gran Selezione. Dense, powerful and beautifully textured, with intense underpinnings of saline minerality. The 2015 has a brilliant future." Vinous

The grapes come from the single vineyard MGA Rabajà in the municipality of Barbaresco. 2019 is a retro vintage, so to speak, as it marks a return for Vietti, who vinified Rabajà back in the 1980s. The soils are calcareous and clayey, with a south/south-west exposure and an altitude of around 235-315 metres above sea level. The average age of the vines is 51 years and they are cultivated according to the Guyot system. Intense garnet red colour. Opulent and delicate on the nose with floral scents of rosehips and violets and ripe black cherry. Amazingly fresh and enveloping for a mature Riserva from the very first sip. The tannins are ripe, soft, silky and wonderfully integrated, giving the wine a great structure and elegance. What completely won us over during the tasting was the almost immeasurable length of the wine, which is still resonating as we write this. Complimenti! SUPERIORE.DE

"This Barbaresco leaps from the glass with aromas of black raspberry jam from the farmers' market, including seeds, blue violets, sweet spices and subtle herbal notes. The palate is polished and lush, with tart cherries that stand out, while lively acidity keeps the palate fresh and rounded tannins carry the wine through to the savoury finish." Wine Enthusiast

"Transparent and clear flavours of cherries and berries with some cedar and lavender, which fade into a medium body, with fine and round tannins and a delicious finish. Now very accessible and refined." James Suckling

"The Barbaresco Riserva Rabajà 2019 is a new wine from Vietti. It emerges from the glass with a captivating bouquet reminiscent of crushed flowers, herbs, mint and orange peel. The aromas alone are beguiling. Vibrant and classic in structure, with a wonderful inner sweetness, the 2019 is absolutely irresistible." Vinous

"Bright with strawberry, cherry, rose, wild rosemary and iron aromas and flavors, this red is expressive but also firmly structured, harmonious and elegant, lingering with a complex aftertaste of fruit, mineral and savory elements." Wine Spectator

"Vietti worked at Cru Rabajà in the 1980s and has now returned to produce this inaugural vintage of the portfolio's latest wine. And what a stunning wine it is. The 2019 Barbaresco Riserva Rabajà has lush, well-rounded fruit and a generous disposition of wild mountain blueberries, grenadine and watermelon candy. There are also hints of resin, tar, linseed oil, fern or forest plants. The nose is one thing, but the palate is even more powerful, with very solid tannins, fresh acidity and generous fruit intensity. This Riserva is firing on all cylinders." Wine Advocate

Allegrini's top Riserva Fieramonte presents itself deeply concentrated and almost black in the glass. The palate is firm and equally concentrated, with dense waves of dark fruits, spices, toast and cinnamon. The aromatic panorama of this wine is impressive, its dimension, depth and texture make it one of the greatest wines of the appellation. Wow! SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense ruby red with violet reflections. The nose is intense and structured, elite. It presents ripe notes of red fruit flesh, jammy figs, followed by warm tones of tobacco, coffee and spices such as cloves and pepper. The palate is dense, full and enveloping with pronounced tannins, long, captivating finish." Falstaff

"The 2015 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva Fieramonte is totally captivating, with a mentholated bouquet that mixes cedar spice box with cloves, dried blood orange and cinnamon-dusted black cherries. This envelopes the palate, elegant and seamlessly silky, as a core of racy acidity perfectly balances a dense wave of ripe red fruits. It lingers impossibly long, with framing tannins that punctuate the wine nicely without slowing its momentum. The 2015 Fieramonte is gorgeous today but also packed full of potential. What's more, there's no shame in bringing this beautifully sculpted Amarone to the dinner table." Vinous

"Aromas of blackberries, cherry pie and cooked plums combine with cloves, vanilla, freshly turned earth and dried violets. Framed by fine and polished tannins with notes of dried plums and gingerbread biscuits." Wine Enthusiast

"Plush and opulent, with a creamy chocolate edge to the concentrated minty blackberries, dark walnuts, shells and pine cones. Rich, broad and full-bodied with lots of oak now, but still very fresh and tangy. Lots of fine-grained tannins tie in the dark fruits and sweet spices on a long finish. It still needs some time for the oak to settle better. Drinkable from 2024." James Suckling

"The Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva Fieramonte 2015 captivates with its mentholated bouquet, where cedar spices mingle with cloves, dried blood oranges and cinnamon-dusted black cherries. The palate is enveloped by an elegant and seamlessly silky note, while a core of racy acidity perfectly balances a dense wave of ripe red fruits. The finish is incredibly long and the tannins frame the wine without slowing its momentum. The 2015 Fieramonte is beautiful today, but also full of potential. Plus, there's no shame in bringing this beautifully shaped Amarone to the table." Vinous

"From an 8 ha vineyard at 415 m altitude. Rich aroma on the nose with a beautiful nuance of dark fruits, floral scents and sweet spices all melding together. The texture is so appealing, rich yet smooth and silky, dominating the palate with flavours of stewed blackcurrants, coffee beans, orange peel, slightly bitter medicinal herbs, juicy balsamic pepper fruit and a beguiling saltiness. It is enveloping in the best sense, yet juicy and lively, leaving a lasting impression on the palate, an absolute vitality. The tannins are rather chewy and grippy, coating the mouth and tongue, but the presentation of flavours is so precise and detailed. This wine is amazingly good and has excellent freshness." Decanter

Barolo La Serra emerges from the glass with a playful bouquet of dark red fruits, tar, smoke, liquorice, spices and new leather. The high-pitched notes of rose petals, which are typical of this vineyard near La Morra, are complemented by fine strawberry and raspberry notes and, in this wonderfully elegant and subtle overall package, result in an attractive, extremely elegant Barolo that is hard to beat in terms of finesse, purity and length. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2019 Barolo La Serra is one of the best editions from this vineyard, one of the vineyards that Roberto Voerzio started with. It offers a beguiling blend of dark cherry, plum, liquorice, lavender and sage. The dark side of Nebbiolo comes alive in this striking, translucent Barolo from Roberto Voerzio. The tannins are firm and engaging, but there is more than enough fruit to provide balance." Vinous

"Fresh and lively with raspberry, lime and honeysuckle on the nose. Medium-bodied with taut and polished tannins that are fully integrated. Polished and fine. Needs time to open up and show itself. Try it after 2028. Fresh and lively with notes of raspberry, lime and honeysuckle on the nose. Medium-bodied with taut and polished tannins that are fully integrated. Polished and fine. Needs time to open up and show itself. Try after 2028." James Suckling

"The nose opens with notes of pomegranate, hints of wild iris, juniper and rhubarb. The mouthfeel is elegant and crisp, with spicy tannins and a very long finish that returns fruity and subtle." Luca Gardini

Barolo Brunate is a breathtaking expression of great complexity and finesse. The wine has a lively garnet red colour with a balanced and intense bouquet: sage, mint, undergrowth, tar, tobacco and liquorice nuances give Brunate a striking aromatic complexity. At the heart of the bouquet, as well as on the palate, there is plenty of dark fruit, including blackcurrants and plums. Gains breadth with time in the glass and the already fine tannins will certainly become even smoother with further ageing in the bottle. A Barolo with real presence and stature and for us the most accessible Barolo in Voerzio's exceptional collection! SUPERIORE.DE

"The Barolo Brunate 2019 is a dark, virile wine. In other words, a classic Brunate. Black cherry, liquorice, sage, menthol, liquorice, dried herbs, lavender and graphite are some of the many notes that develop as this strong, taut Barolo shows its irrepressible personality. This is one of the most impressive Barolos I have tasted from Roberto Voerzio in quite some time." Vinous

"Lots of notes of rose petals with pure fruits like raspberries and fresh strawberries. Full and powerful with lots of tannins, but the core of the fruit is fresh and beautiful. It is not overly chewy or aggressive. It shows purity and focus. A fantastic wine." James Suckling

"The sand and marl of Sant'Agata, together with natural, inspired and impeccable winemaking, contribute to the success of one of the masterpieces of typology. Cranberry jam, a hint of blood orange peel, a touch of lemon thyme, ginger and capers. The sip is dense, with a spicy, citrusy finish." Luca Gardini