Vinous | 95–100 Points

Since summer 2023, Chianti Classico producers have been allowed to include the eleven additional geographical indications (UGA = unità geografiche aggiuntive) introduced in 2021 on the labels of the top Gran Selezione category. For Chianti Classico winegrowers, it is a logical step to produce wines that reflect the area in which they were produced as authentically as possible. And customers can thus deepen their knowledge of the relationship between the wines and their region of origin - a real added value.

For many years, Istine has vinified a small and strictly selected part of the Sangiovese separately according to the origin of the vineyard in order to emphasise and bring out the specific characteristics of the site, the soil and the altitude. Since then, the best grapes from the estate's own vineyards Istine (Radda), Casanova dell'Aia (Radda) and Cavarchione (Gaiole) have been vinified separately, resulting in three now highly sought-after cru wines, of which just 3,000 bottles are sold in specialised shops and restaurants every year.

Vigna Cavarchione from the single vineyard of the same name in Gaiole is powerful, juicy and creamy, as befits a wine from this part of the appellation. Overripe red cherry fruit, mint, dried flowers and spices blend together in a sensual, inviting Chianti Classico that is characterised by its richness and suppleness. This highly distinctive and terrific masterpiece finishes with a lovely lace of sweet raspberry contrasting with the sour cherry. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna Cavarchione is a polished, sensual wine. Black cherry, plum, lavender, sage, menthol and licorice build effortlessly in a Gran Selezione that captures all the textural richness that is typical of this sector in Gaiole. Ripe, finessed tannins wrap it all together." Vinous

Since summer 2023, Chianti Classico producers have been allowed to include the eleven additional geographical indications (UGA = unità geografiche aggiuntive) introduced in 2021 on the labels of the top Gran Selezione category. For Chianti Classico winegrowers, it is a logical step to produce wines that reflect the area in which they were produced as authentically as possible. And customers can thus deepen their knowledge of the relationship between the wines and their region of origin - a real added value.

For many years, Istine has vinified a small and strictly selected part of the Sangiovese separately according to the origin of the vineyard in order to emphasise and bring out the specific characteristics of the site, the soil and the altitude. Since then, the best grapes from the estate's own vineyards Istine (Radda), Casanova dell'Aia (Radda) and Cavarchione (Gaiole) have been vinified separately, resulting in three now highly sought-after cru wines, of which just 3,000 bottles are sold in specialised shops and restaurants every year.

Vigna Casanova dell'Aia is airy, weightless and graceful in flavour. Crushed flowers, sweet red berries, mint, chalk and white pepper rise from the glass in this very beautiful, incredibly nuanced Chianti Classico. Arguably the most ethereal wine in the high-class Istine collection, flavours of red berries and cherries are flanked by a fine, almost silky tannin on the palate and lead into an elegant, flowing finish with remarkable memorable potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"From the single vineyard Casanova dell'Aia, Angela Fronti produces an elegant, dancing wine with ripe cherry fruit, fine spice and plenty of minerality, matured in large oak. Fine-grained tannins, built into a juicy melting texture, with a marvellously fresh acidity, herbaceous and tart undertones, impressively long. Shows its class despite its youthfulness." Weinwisser

"Playful bouquet of red forest fruits, flowers and spices; youthful tannins, perfectly integrated acidity, fresh and elegant through to the lingering fruity finish. Classic, long-lasting and good." Vinum

"The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna Casanova dell'Aia is a perfect example of Radda. Sage, mint, white pepper, crushed stones, mint and dried herbs give the 2021 its intense floral, spicy and mineral style. The harvestwill find a Gran Selezione endowed with plenty of tension and pure mineral drive. It has really evolved since I tasted it last year." Vinous

Maestro Raro shines first with its lively colour and then impresses with a bouquet that reveals a wonderful blackberry scent after spices, leather and tobacco aromas. The concentrated taste spreads softly, in which a stable acid structure cooperates perfectly with the tannin structure. SUPERIORE.DE

"Beautiful aromas of currants and fresh herbs with some green coffee bean. Medium to full body with firm, chewy tannins and a flavourful finish. Needs time to mellow and come together." James Suckling

"The 2019 Maestro Raro is impressive. Dark, layered and striking in its completeness, the Maestro Raro is endowed with tremendous depth and sheer resonance. Black cherry, plum, menthol, liquorice, spice and grilled herbs give the 2019 considerable depth." Vinous

"The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Maestro Raro is a lovely expression with deep layers of dark fruit and savory spice that are woven tightly together to form a solid core of primary and secondary flavors. This vintage is especially tight and concentrated, showing terrific balance and freshness and impeccable fruit ripeness that is generous and full. There are no green elements in this vintage. Instead, the fruit is beautifully rich and velvety." Wine Advocate

Sparkling, medium-dense ruby-garnet colour. The Rancia Riserva from the single vineyard of the same name is powerful and energetic, expressive and dense and has been elevated to "Gran Selezione" status for the first time. The aroma is characterised by ripe, full-bodied fruit and mineral notes. The flavour is earthy, tannic and terroir-influenced, beautifully articulated, fine and with an enjoyable length. A wine that requires sensitivity and/or a few years of rest. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, shiny ruby-red core with a garnet-coloured rim. Black cherry and blueberry on the nose, with notes of forest floor, liquorice and cedar wood. On the palate with a fruity core, on a tightly woven tannin structure alternating with fresh acidity and great length." Falstaff

"Quite fruity and fresh, with medium body, fine tannins and undertones of dark cherry, blood orange and cedar. It is closed now, but shows focus and brightness. Straightforward tannins run through the centre." James Suckling

"The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Rancia, which has now been elevated to Gran Selezione status, displays a dark fruit profile with blackcurrants and wild plums. These black and purple fruits are followed by mineral notes of slate and iron ore. The finish is dusty and dry as these mineral notes are enhanced by powdery tannins." Wine Advocate

"The core of cherry, pomegranate and raspberry fruit is underlined by notes of Tuscan scrub, iron, vanilla and tobacco as this intense red wine builds its power to the expansive final, where its fruit, mineral and wild herb flavours converge. It shows fine balance and length; it just needs time to absorb the oak." Wine Spectator

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Rancia 2021 is the first vintage in which Rancia is transitioning from Riserva to Gran Selezione. The 2021 combines power and finesse in a way that only Rancia can. Black cherry, leather, game, spices, liquorice, tobacco and grilled herbs are combined in a brooding yet elegant Gran Selezione that lives up to expectations. Outstanding." Vinous

For Camalaione, owners Luca Orsini and Valeria Viganò blend Cabernet Sauvignon with Syrah and Merlot, an approach that works very well here. The 2018 is wonderfully seductive, even if it is still very closed at first. Deep dark fruits, spices, new leather, liquorice, menthol and dried herbs emerge with a little time in the glass. Silky and smooth, with a medium-weight structure, it is absolutely stunning. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich cassis, dark cherries, some tapenade and dusty cocoa powder add a degree of richness and complexity to the subtle flavours of rhubarb and damp leaves. The palate is full-bodied and flavourful, with a salty note in the fruit and a long, complex finish. Lots of sea salt chocolate on the finish." James Suckling

"The 2018 Camalaione is a great wine, obviously quite atypical given the Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot/Syrah blend, but compelling nonetheless. Dark cherry, plum, mocha, spice, leather and grilled herbs saturate the palate in a wine of stunning depth and textural intensity. A real stunner." Vinous

The name Poggio al Granchio comes from the small pond in the centre of the vineyard, which is located under an imposing holm oak tree and is home to a number of freshwater crayfish that have landed with energy. It is the area with the highest vineyards on the hill of Montalcino. It is a vineyard that receives the morning sun and is exposed to the strong climatic influence of Monte Amiata (former volcano and sacred mountain of the Etruscans), which rises opposite. This area of Montalcino has rich Galestro soils, which are particularly good for Brunello. On Galestro, the Sangiovese becomes mineral and savoury, with silky tannins; on the nose it has notes of ripe undergrowth fruit combined with that unmistakable hint of flint that you can smell directly on the slate. On the palate, the wine has a subtle, elegant but assertive entry and proves to be flavoursome and mineral. The Brunello here is dark in colour and has great ageing potential.

Intense ruby red colour with violet hues. Powerful and spicy bouquet of fresh cherries, redcurrants, blackberries, aniseed and myrtle. On the palate, it has an unmistakably subtle Sangiovese typicity, the wonderfully varied primary flavours are flanked by long, silky tannins. It has a very flavoursome and mineral finish that only this region can give Sangiovese. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, shiny ruby red with a sparkling centre. Cool nose of citrus, elderberries, reminiscent of cold butter, herbs and graphite. On the palate with grippy, youthful tannins, red fruit and good freshness, medium weight, still a little rough at the back." Falstaff

"A shade deeper than the Vigna del Lago and with orange-coloured reflections. It is also a little richer and riper, with plenty of deep plum fruit and spicy notes of black pepper. The tangy cherry fruit is lined with sandy tannins. Great balance and length." Jancis Robinson

"Pretty cherries and chocolate with some violets, leading to a medium body with fine tannins and an orange peel finish. Refined and beautiful." James Suckling

"Poggio al Granchio, which stretches south-east towards Monte Amiata, lies at an altitude of 450 metres on slate-rich Galestro soil. The area is characterised by warm days and cool nights, resulting in firmly structured wines. The 2019 is a virile wine that opens with smoky ash, incense and iron. On the palate, it shows blackberries and blackcurrants, coated in dusty, dry, stony earth. Pungent, gravelly tannins sprinkle the mouth, while the acidity provides a tangy bite. It gradually finishes with a rust-like aura." Decanter

"The Brunello di Montalcino Poggio al Granchio 2019 draws the taster close to the glass to take in its beguiling aromas. Aromas of roses and cloves give way to cinnamon-dusted redcurrants and a hint of camphor. An elegant style with a silky texture and ripe, rich wild berries balanced by lively acidity. Salty minerals colour the palate as the 2019 finishes long and structured. It holds its power in reserve, while a pleasantly bitter note mingles with fine-grained tannins to create a youthfully exciting sensation. This is a Poggio al Granchio for the ages. Bury your bottles deep." Vinous

"A deep well of blackberry, blackcurrant and cherry fruit characterises this juicy red wine, with accents of wild rosemary and minerals. Well-structured and complex, with a long finish that reflects the fruit and savoury notes. Excellent balance and harmony." Wine Spectator

"This wine, one of the best, smells of redcurrants, a hint of rosemary and star anise, with a hint of ginger. Beautiful finish." Luca Gardini

For some years now, Matteo Catania has been holding back a few hundred bottles of his wines in the best vintages in order to offer them to his most loyal importers after a few years. From this "private reserve" comes Nerosanloré 2012, which is now - in spring 2023 - offered in small quantities with 7 years of further bottle ageing quasi in Riserva quality.

An exceptionally characterful and powerful Nero d'Avola is the Nerosanloré. From a beautiful vineyard in Pacchino, the area of origin of the famous vine. Mineral, vital, ripe, elegant, long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep ruby red. Refined, highly complex aromas of blueberries, flint, exotic spices, faded flowers, cumin and cardamom. Bright, juicy and penetrating on the palate, with great mid-palate energy and a brooding quality to the very deep but currently subtle spicy red and blue fruit flavours. It rises impressively on the back palate, which is elegant and perfumed, with soft, fine-grained tannins, a restrained sweetness and a lingering flinty nuance. A remarkably deep, complex NeroSanlorè." VINOUS

Of the four Gulfi-Cru, this is the vineyard closest to the sea, less than 700 metres away and only 10-15 metres above sea level. With vines that grow on sandy soils.

Precise aromas of ripe red cherries, flint, orange peel, lavender and violets. Silky and juicy on the palate, with a refined but very concentrated extract that almost crushes the taste buds, yet remains lively and not at all heavy, giving the flavours of red cherries, raspberries, flowers and minerals beautiful definition and lift. The finish is very deep and long, with very soft tannins, a beguiling perfume and extreme finesse; very Barolo-like. A beautiful, multi-layered wine that shows the elegant side of Nero d'Avola that few producers are ever able to present. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich and tangy with some baked cherries, cassis, mulberries, dried flowers and peppercorns. Juicy and full-bodied on the palate with fine, plush tannins and a long, mouthwatering finish." James Suckling

"A blend of crushed plums, rose petals, lavender and Violette pastille creates a deeply seductive bouquet as the 2019 NeroSanloré blossoms in the glass. This is a model of grace and elegance with silky textures, vividly ripe red and blue fruits elevated by sour citrus and a core of stimulating acidity. It finishes long and staining, with sweet tannins that frame the experience beautifully as tangerine and blackberry fade. The 2019 NeroSanloré is to die for; what a gorgeous Nero d'Avola." Vinous

The three Tedeschi siblings Antonietta, Sabrina and Riccardo, who also select the three barrels from which the blend is made each year, give their name to the "Ansari", which is only available in small quantities. Rich bouquet of dried fruit, sultanas, rum pot and chocolate. Firm on the palate with an excellent structure, the opulent fruit centre is joined by balsamic, herbal notes and a piquant bitter note on the long finish. The perfect addition to the famous family winery's top-class Amarone range since the 2016 debut vintage. SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep dark ruby with a garnet-red rim. Elegant nose of dark plum, blueberry jam, cold smoke and fine wood spice. Lush and supple, flows over the tongue with great presence into the long final." Falstaff

"A medium- to full-bodied red, with a fragrant waft of eucalyptus and tobacco leaf elements accenting the core of soft cherry, steeped raspberry and singed orange peel notes. This wine's bright, focused flavors are integrated with fine, chalky tannins and tangy acidity." Wine Spectator

"The name is an acronym that reflects the names of the three siblings. Fine, pure fruit with the density and fullness you would expect from an Amarone. Nevertheless, the wine is impressively fresh, characterised by a wonderful acid structure that keeps it light on its feet and gives it a good, juicy length. A paradox of power and balletic detail, almost reminiscent of a Pinot from a warm vintage, so strong are the allusions to red fruit. Dangerously drinkable. An excellent, somewhat modern interpretation of Amarone." James Suckling

"The Amarone della Valpolicella Ansari 2019 needs its time in the glass, initially it is dark and floral with a hint of herbs. When coaxed, an attractive blend of wild berries, violets and gravel emerges. This silky and refined wine impresses with its perfect balance of ripe red and blue fruits, offset by salty minerals and savoury spices. The lively acidity provides a wonderful freshness, while the 2019 finishes structured and long. The grippy tannins linger, leaving the mouth wanting more." Vinous

Complex bouquet of ripe fruit, sage and tobacco flavours. Dense and firm on the palate with savoury tannins, very well structured and of outstanding quality and purity, long and powerful on the finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"A blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Franc, the 2020 Haiku shows an inky dark appearance with black fruit aromas, dark granite, spice and iron ore. The 2020 vintage reveals an especially dark core of ripe fruit. The primary aromas are surrounded by spice, tarry smoke and leather. This edition is full-bodied and generous in only a manner 2020 can manage." Wine Advocate

"It is a herbal red, intense and with wonderfully zesty acidity. Black and red fruits are accompanied by flecks of blood orange and chocolate, while the soft tannins lend a plush mouthfeel – yet it remains vertical and fresh with a spicy finish. Delicious." Decanter

"This is really intense and energetic with black berries, black cherries and black earth with some black truffle and orange peel. It's medium- to full-bodied with chewy tannins and a long and flavorful finish. Already impressive for a young wine but needs two or three years to soften." James Suckling

"The 2020 Haiku is once again impressive. Dark, explosive and layered, the 2020 delivers the goods. It's a wine that offers a mix of regional character with an international flair. One of the more expressive wines in the range, Haiku shows the more exuberant side of the year off in spades. Time in the glass releases the Franc aromatics very nicely." Vinous

Vigorello was created back in 1968 at the beginning of the Super Tuscan movement. It is a powerful yet refined wine that bursts from the glass with unadulterated tones of black fruit, liquorice, rose and dried lavender, Mediterranean herbs and a sweet hint of vanilla. The balance and structure are outstanding and it will develop even more complexity over time. SUPERIORE.DE

"The nose mixes juicy plums and violets with dustier aromas of pepper and mocha. Those notes all continue onto the palate, where bright acidity spotlights the fruit and flowers, and chalky tannins underline the more savory flavors on the long and luxurious finish." Wine Enthusiast

"Aromas of black cherries and currants with licorice, walnut and dried leaves. Medium- to full-bodied with fine, polished tannins and bright acidity. Toned and focused with a fresh, juicy fruit character and firm, flavorful finish." James Suckling

"The 2019 Vigorello, San Felice's Pugnitello, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot blend is terrific. I especially admire the interplay of dense fruit and energy. Plum, pomegranate, mocha, new leather, spice and dried herbs all build in a sensual, beautifully layered red that delivers the goods." Vinous

"The San Felice 2019 Vigorello is another hit from this leading winery in Castelnuovo Berardenga. The wine reveals an inky dark appearance and a profound bouquet that goes beyond the standard black cherry and spice. This offering also brings on pretty tones of cola, crushed flower, grilled rosemary and sweet crème de cassis. There is freshness and grippy tannins to close. Production is only 6,000 bottles." Wine Advocate

Coniale, a pure Cabernet Sauvignon, is an elegant and expressive wine. Smells pleasantly of black fruits, spices and tobacco, presents itself dense and wide on the palate, with mineral tones of flint and granite, firmly structured and well defined until the long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Aromas of blackberries, mushrooms, mocha, cedar and spice box. It's full-bodied with firm, polished tannins. Tight and structured with a rich, zesty and spiced finish." James Suckling

"This red features ripe cherry, currant, loam, Tuscan scrub and bitter almond flavors, with a mineral underpinning. Firm and taut, with a beam of acidity driving the lingering finish. Balanced in a compact way, this should unwind in a year or two." Wine Spectator

"The 2017 Coniale, 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, is a gorgeous wine that marries varietal character with a distinctly Chianti Classico profile of acid, tannin and overall structure. This decidedly Tuscan Cabernet has so much to offer, starting with its expansive aromatics and beautifully layered fruit. Dark cherry, cedar, tobacco, menthol and licorice lead into the firm, structured finish." Vinous

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

Bright red. Precise, brooding aromas of ripe red cherries, flint, orange peel, cinnamon, lavender and violets, complicated by iodine and earth. Silky and juicy with a refined but very concentrated extract that tantalises the taste buds but remains lively and not at all heavy, adding lovely definition and lift to the red cherry, raspberry, floral and mineral flavours. The finish is very deep and long, with very soft tannins, a fascinating fragrance in the mouth and extreme finesse. SUPERIORE.DE

"Fully saturated ruby. Pure, very deep aromas of black cherry, red plum, medicinal herbs and minerals. Rich, dense and suave, with complex flavors of saline red berries and dark plum complicated by repeating botanical herb and balsamic nuances. Finishes seamless an long. A wine of noteworthy purity, with an excellent balance of sweetness, acidity and tannins. This is Gulfi's closest vineyard to the sea and almost always gives the estate's most elegant, refined wine." Vinous

Inama's Garganega flagship is named after the wide terraces with rows of old Garganega vines trained in beads on Monte Foscarino. In 2019, thanks to the optimal orientation and careful cultivation, a selection of the best grapes was reserved for I Palchi, which will now only be released on the market in the best years in very limited quantities. It is the archetype of a Soave Classico from volcanic soils and a more than successful, independent interpretation of the Garganega grape.

Deep, rich straw yellow colour. Delicate, highly elegant nose of white flowers, stone fruit and meadow herbs, rounded off with a lovely spiciness and a hint of flint. Full-bodied on the palate, with a firm creaminess, dense, ripe fruit and complex, mineral components. A dream in velvet and silk, carried by a well-proportioned acidity and with an impressive final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, radiant straw yellow with elegant green reflections. Appealing nose of ripe lemon, cold smoke, exotic undertones, candied pineapple, sugared coconut, cold herbal tea on the final. Very nice melting on the palate, with a racy-salty undertone, polished, with beautiful play, mouth-watering in the final and with fine length." Falstaff

"Rich, round and flinty, it's full of exotic and peachy yellow fruits, allied to lovely freshness and poised sapidity. Smoky and spicy hints emerge on the long, slightly woody finish. Class." Decanter

"The Soave Classico Foscarino Grande Cuvée I Palchi 2021 is what they describe as the most representative target for this wine. Made from 100% Garganega, the wine is beautifully structured and fresh, almost crisp and very detailed with peach, honeydew melon, exotic fruits and crushed oyster shells. I Palchi consists of terraced vineyards with 50 to 60 year old vines that are trained using a pergola-rafter system. Garganega is a very vigorous grape variety. The choice of oak wood is carefully considered here." Wine Advocate

"The moment the cork is pulled, you know you're in for a ride. The wine opens with aromas of lemon blossom, lemon peel and lemon curd. You might think that this is all the wine has to offer, but you are quickly led down a different path where flavours of hazelnut, roasted apples, magnolia and the first hint of smoke emerge. As the wine reaches the palate, you are hurled into the vineyard and feel the power of the soil. Flavours of white peach, mixed citrus, wild herbs and honey lead the way to an explosion of minerality that captivates you back into the glass. This is a wine that can hold its own with any other in the world." Wine Enthusiast

"The Soave Classico I Palchi Foscarino Grande Cuvée 2021 has a platinum gold colour and a youthful, intense bouquet that blends raw almonds with stone dust, dusty dried flowers and Asian pear. It seduces with its silky texture and supple personality, washing over the palate with crisp, ripe fruit accompanied by a savoury mix of spicy herbs and minerals. The 2021 tapers dramatically long and fresh, leaving an aftertaste of mint and liquid stone." Vinous

"Wow. This is fantastic with mangoes, lemons, pears and a hint of vanilla. Mineral flavours too. Full-bodied with bright fruit and a lively finish. Lots of minerality. A selection of the best grapes from Inama in the Grand Cru Foscarino. Outstanding." James Suckling

Contrada Rampante with a finely woven bouquet of dark red cherries, flowers, mint and liquorice. Fresh and lively on the palate, with a memorable blend of ethereal sweetness, delicate acidity and an interesting salty note. A contemplative wine that requires a certain amount of experience and patience in order to fully discover itself and its deliciousness. Pre-Phylloxera = from ungrafted vines! SUPERIORE.DE

"The nose is simultaneously delicate and earthy, with aromas of dirt, stone and herbs, but also cherry blossoms and cranberries. The palate is defined by a richer, fuller cherry element, but undertones of salt and citrus, along with a powerful electric current of acid, elicit excitement." Wine Enthusiast

"Tar, graphite, dried roses, dark minerals and oranges with just a hint of earthy sweet spices. Structured and full-bodied on the palate with a heap of dusty tannins and a lengthy, cohesive finish." James Suckling

"Hauntingly dark and floral, the 2020 Etna Rosso Rampante smolders up with an array of dusty violets, lavender, cloves and earth tones before giving way to musky black currants. This is sleek and cool-toned in feel, showing its crisp minerality up front as tart wild berry fruits emerge over a core of sour citrus and spice. Structured and long yet still remarkably fresh, the 2020 finishes with dramatic length and concentration, leaving a hint of licorice and saline minerals that pinch at the cheeks. Patience will be required for this strapping Etna Rosso to come to full maturity." Vinous

Complex aromas with notes of wild berries, chocolate and mint, plenty of power, fruit and fullness on the palate, spicy and opulent final. A Barbera that can and should mature. The small edition of this exquisite extract from just under 1.4 hectares of vineyard usually sells out in no time at all. SUPERIORE.DE

"A smooth, lively red wine with sweet spices centred around a core of plum, black cherry and blueberry. Smooth in texture, with a line of dusty tannins on the finish. Balanced, just needs time. Decant now." Wine Spectator

"Floral aromas with sandalwood to the character of black berries and black cherries. Medium-bodied with firm and racy tannins. A juicy and bright finish. 50% of the vineyards were planted in 1918." James Suckling

"As if staring into a purple void, this deep Barbera draws the attention immediately open with aromas of framboise liquor, dried violets and baking spice. Forward, fun and serious at the same time, the wine pops with tart cherry jam and wild herb flavors with vibrant acidity keeping the palate fresh." Wine Enthusiast

"The Barbera d'Alba Scarrone Vigna Vecchia 2021 is endowed with enormous depth and resonance. Black cherry, plum, smoke, liquorice and chocolate are all turned up to the max. The Vigna Vecchia is Vietti's most extracted Barbera. As such, it is also the one most clearly associated with the wines of the past. It is certainly a good performance, but it is not significantly better than the Scarrone." Vinous

Badia a Passignano is always one of the many highlights in the Antinori range and is probably the estate's most refined and elegant Sangiovese. Its character is medium-bodied and supple, but with plenty of fruit intensity, which is typical of the vineyard of the same name. It skilfully strikes a balance between richness and finesse, captivating from the very first sip. Lavender, mint, blue-purple fruit and liquorice are beautifully brought out. It is a very traditional and noble expression of the Tuscan grape that is hard to resist. SUPERIORE.DE

"The classic Gran Selezione of the Antinori family from vineyards around the Abbey of Passignano: Intriguing Sangiovese nose with aromas of red berries and flowers; finesse-rich structure, the tightly woven tannins and acidity in balance, persistent final." Vinum

"Dark, shiny, ruby-red centre with a fine rim. Dense, inviting bouquet of juicy blackberries and cherries, plus tobacco, leather and a hint of thyme. Powerful and very juicy on the palate, firm, well-integrated tannins with fresh acidity, subtle saltiness on the long final." Falstaff

"A deep well of cherry, pomegranate, iron, tobacco and wild herb aromas and flavours underscore this intense red wine, while a dense layer of tannins provides grip. Lively acidity drives the lingering aftertaste of fruit, mineral and herbal notes." Wine Spectator

"The 2021 Badia a Passignano has developed well and has successfully shed its oak signature. What you get now is a beautiful mouthful of rich, ripe black fruit with background notes of green spices and smoked bacon. A hint of fragrant rose comes through beautifully after a few minutes at a certain point. Overall, this wine from San Donato in Poggio UGA offers bright and lively fruit. With its long winemaking tradition and its first production in 1988, this wine is, so to speak, the control sample against which the three new UGA expressions are measured." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 has some notes of green herbs as well as bitter cherry, orange peel and sweet vanilla. There is a hint of forest green and a balsamic note as well as spicy black pepper. On the palate, the tannins are firm, upright and assertive, but always refined. The texture and weight are beautifully soft and enveloping, and the acidity gives the wine a pleasant freshness on the finish. At the moment it is still a little characterised by oak, but it is still young and needs time. A beautifully crafted wine that expresses a strong identity." Decanter

"The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Badia a Passignano is one of the best editions of this wine I've ever tasted. Ripe blue fruit, spice, chocolate, leather and liquorice fill out the layers in a lush, full-bodied Gran Selezione. Again, the winemaking and ageing changes have resulted in a wine that combines sophistication with textural resonance. Outstanding." Vinous

Granato has been an exceptional Teroldego for years: It convinces in the bouquet with its rich balsamic scent of sour cherries and red currants. Extract-rich and intense, powerful and extremely precise on the palate. A great wine that reflects the long-standing consistency and competence of this winemaker. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2020 Teroldego Granato is so youthful yet so beautiful, rising from the glass with an infectiously spicy bouquet that is at times autumnal, at times savoury, mingling with dark red fruits. The palate is flooded with a wave of intense raspberries and wild berries that quickly saturate, but with a hint of sour citrus for a nice balance. A pretty inner sweetness lingers as it finishes structured and remarkably long with a refreshing hint of inner rose and wild strawberry that lingers on. It's powerful but also elegant and perfectly balanced for a long evolution." Vinous

"This wine shows deep red and dark berries with peppery notes, dark chocolate, hibiscus and grapefruit peel. Just a hint of cedar and smoked herbs. Full and concentrated, so stable and dense with lively, finely honed tannins and vibrant acidity giving the wine power and highlighting the savoury fruit and minerality. Very long and tense." James Suckling

"Iconic wine, one of the expressive peaks of Teroldego. Fermentation in open oak vats, ageing in acacia and cement casks, great freshness on the nose, redcurrants, touches of wild mint and rhubarb, on the palate it is dense-sweet, with a fruity-balsamic return and a finish on underbrush notes." Luca Gardini

The star from Tenuta Sant'Antonio: A rich dark ruby red, its bouquet of wild fruits, black pepper, tobacco and spices is a delight for the nose. Fruity and full-bodied, yet velvety and very sophisticated in its character - an austere, characterful and elegant Amarone, whose terrificfinish is accompanied by noble tannins. SUPERIORE.DE

"It has distinct aromas of chocolate wheat and spiced plum crumble. Tart black fruits and balsamic freshness lurk in the mouth with streaks of tangy red fruits and dusty spices, supported by fine, grainy tannins. It's sweet and juicy and shows some chalky tautness on the palate, giving this big wine a desirable finesse." Decanter

"Ruby red with a tendency towards violet. The nose reveals clear notes of sour cherry, cherry, plum, blood orange and undergrowth, followed by floral notes of rose and violet. Gradually, spicy notes unfold. Full, juicy and fruity on the palate, with splendid tannins, finishing delicately bitter on the long finish." Falstaff

"The Tenuta Sant'Antonio Famiglia Castagnedi 2017 Amarone della Valpolicella Campo dei Gigli reveals a very savory character with dried fruit, lots of plum and spicy back notes that transition to tarry smoke and barbecue. The wine is full-bodied and slightly evolved due to the hot vintage conditions." Wine Advocate

"Thick and rather syrupy dried black fruits face a wall of black pepper and toasted oak on the nose, which turns to liquorice on the palate. Any subtler, more complex character waits for now for the youthful fruit and oak to clear the main stage. And that can take some time. Nevertheless, this wine is already very pleasant to drink and will give pleasure for many years to come." James Suckling

"The 2017 Amarone della Valpolicella Campo dei Gigli is intense, like opening an ash stone to discover a wealth of dried black cherries, cinnamon sticks, incense and dried herbs. The texture is deep, with a balanced inner sweetness highlighted by vibrant acidity, while the depths of tart red fruits slowly saturate the palate with primary concentration. The 2017 finishes structured and dramatically long, making a case for further cellaring." Vinous

Ruby garnet colour, fine violet note and many spices in the bouquet. Dense and compact with taut tannin and sweet fruit melt. Given time, this already very elegant red (age of the vines: 100 years, production: 4,000 bottles) is at the beginning of a long, promising development. SUPERIORE.DE

"Just under medium ruby. A nose full of spices over a layer of cool red fruits with stony hints. Open and completely ready and accessible. Fresh, supple red fruits. More elegant than concentrated with soft, polished tannins." Jancis Robinson

"Juniper and sour cherry, earth and salt on the nose. Hearty on the palate with hints of venison, black cherry, chocolate and nutmeg. Very concentrated, broad-shouldered and at the same time punchy due to a present acidity. The fruit seems very ripe. A wine with high demands, but also a pleasure to drink." Vinum

"The Vini Franchetti 2020 Contrada G, with fruit from the historic Guardiola vineyard where some of the vines are 120 years old, has notes of white pepper and Indian spices framing red currants, balsamic herbs, pencil shavings and embers. The wine is tangy and full-bodied, with medium texture and long tannins." Wine Advocate

"Elegant ruby red with a sparkling core and brightening rim. Elegant and inviting nose of ripe cherries, mint, cold smoke, then again ripe raspberries, pomegranate and blood orange, seductive. Polished and compact on the palate, opening slowly and in many layers, extremely finessed and with a salty, long finish." Falstaff

"The 2020 Contrada Guardiola (G) is a real eye-catcher. It is surprisingly floral, with an abundance of rose and violet tones mingling with blackberries and a pinch of spice. It flows across the palate with ease, silky at first, with a saline core and tart red berries drenching the senses; yet it remains perfumed and refined throughout. Spicy citrus and herbal notes run through the long final, along with a layer of fine tannins that promise a long and steady evolution. Franky said, "This is one of the finest performances of Guardiola fruit I have ever experienced." Vinous

Ruby garnet colour, fine violet and rose notes and many spices in the bouquet. Dense and compact with taut tannin and sweet fruit melt. Given time, this captivating red is at the beginning of a long, promising development. SUPERIORE.DE

"A powerful sour cherry and the nose, with hints of roasted almonds. On the palate, it shows an opulent, ripe red fruit, reminiscent of morello cherries and redcurrant jam. It also has smoky and savoury notes, reminiscent of fennel salami. On the palate, there is also a salty minerality typical of the volcano." Vinum

"The Vini Franchetti 2020 Contrada S sees its fruit sourced from the popular Contrada Sciaranuova at 850 meters in elevation. The vines are 80 years old on average. It is spicy and tart with plenty of white pepper, medicinal herb and wild berry. The wine continues to offer that slightly spicy quality to the palate with dry tannins and lots of blackcurrant. This vintage saw only 2,040 bottles released." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 Contrada Sciaranuova (S) is deeply seductive, almost sultry, with an herbal note in its bright cherry-berry bouquet, along with a hint of animal musk that keeps me on the edge of the glass. The earth-inspired blend continues on the palate, but mingles with exotic florals, red citrus and a bracing acidity. There's just so much going on here, yet the balance is perfect as the 2020 tapers off lightly structured with a burst of inner sweetness and a hint of salted liquorice that lingers. Wow. Although this wine will age evenly, it is worth tasting early to enjoy its original character. The vines of Sciara Nuova grow at an altitude of 850 metres on soils of volcanic gravel." Vinous

The Cru San Lorenzo, which is strictly limited in each vintage, comes from 4 hectares of vineyards in the district of the same name in the town of Randazzo. The vines are over 70 years old and grow around 750 metres above sea level; the soil consists almost exclusively of fine volcanic sand. The terroir in the small Contrada San Lorenzo was created by lava flows and deposits of volcanic origin that were formed between 60,000 and 15,000 years ago. This exceptional wine is particularly rich, fruity and has very soft tannins that make it velvety and luscious on the palate and ensure a never-ending finish. Magnificent! SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2022 Etna Rosso San Lorenzo is remarkably pretty and redolent of dried flowers, cloves and lavender. It opens with a hint of candied orange that enlivens its core of tart wild berries. The lively acidity keeps the experience fresh throughout. The San Lorenzo colours the palate with high concentration, is lightly tannic and crisp, and leaves delightful floral scents that linger. This is the understated favourite of the Terre Nere portfolio, and I expect cellaring will add even more complexity." Vinous

"On the nose and the palate, wonderful cherry-blossom and rose-petal characters to the dark cherries and sliced blood oranges. Medium- to full-bodied with balance and intensity, this goes on for minutes. The citrus is hypnotizing." James Suckling