Vinous | 95–100 Points

Every year, one of the Tenuta's great, magical single-vineyard wines, which represents the special terroir of the Etna hills in a highly complex way. Dark red fruit, orange peel and flowers on the nose. Then juicy fruit, wonderful depth and a finely chiselled tannin structure. A subtle spiciness on the finish and the outstanding structure, length and elegance are always present! SUPERIORE.DE

"In 2022, the old vines give a very concentrated wine, combining intense almost-sticky dark cherries with menthol, herb and violet overtones. Some spice emerges on the mid-palate. Clearly very youthful, it's not giving away anything more at the moment but will open up with time." Decanter

"The Etna Rosso Calderara Sottana 2022 is intense and spicy in the glass. Crushed ash stones and grilled herbs give way to dried black cherries and spiced orange peel. The wine is luxuriously soft on the attack and is given a lovely lift by a core of tantalising acidity, while salty minerals and grippy tannins consolidate the ripe wild berries. The finish is very long and concentrated, leaving a youthful, structured impression and a pleasantly acidic sensation that lingers. The 2022 combines generosity with power in a wonderfully balanced package that favours cellaring for a decade." Vinous

"The purity and clarity of this wine really speaks to you, with red cherry, orange peel, citrus blossom and basalt. Also a hint of smoke and tar. The transparency here is really something special." James Suckling

"My personal challenge is to bring Amarone back to the table. A wonderful food companion that combines power and complexity with a crisp, soft sip." Graziano Prà

Radiant ruby red. The aromas are intense and complex of stewed plums, cloves, sage and dark chocolate. On the palate, cherry and plum as well as a nice component of bitter cocoa and liquorice. The texture is velvety but also buoyant and juicy, with lively acids teasing the palate with mineral-tinged red fruits and sweet spices. On the complex final, the wine becomes darker and more intense, revealing blackcurrants, herbal notes and a hint of bitter coffee. Morandina offers the intensity of an Amarone but in a spicy and balanced style that is very attractive. SUPERIORE.DE

"This elegant red is medium- to full-bodied, with creamy tannins providing a fine frame for flavors of brambly red currant and blackberry fruit, pine, orange peel and crushed pink peppercorn. A subtle, savory overtone of cured tobacco and smoky bacon fat echoes on the fresh finish." Wine Spectator

"Inspired by Dal Forno, renowned Soave producer Graziano Prà purchased 13 hectares high up in eastern Valpolicella's Mezzane Valley in 2001. The previously unplanted parcel is protected by forest and has been farmed organically from the start. A relatively restrained nose shows dried garden herbs with plum and floral nuances. On the palate, fig and prune flavours are laced with cigar smoke. Velvety, malleable tannins enfold the easy to please package and the finish is bright with a pleasantly bitter edge." Decanter

"A savory and complex expression of Amarone with some dried cherries, red dates, stewed herbs, orange peel, tobacco and white pepper. Some bold green peppercorn, too. A svelte delivery of Amarone with a medium body, showing tobacco, cedar and chocolate on the palate. Long, cedary finish." James Suckling

"The 2016 Amarone della Valpolicella Morandina is dark and youthfully understated in the glass, as crushed rose petals and stone dust give way to red currants. This is silky-smooth, nearly velvety in feel, with masses of mineral-tinged black cherry and spice contrasted by a twang of sour citrus. The 2016 finishes with outstanding length and depth yet is also remarkably fresh, leaving hints of hard red candy and the slightest touch of bitter cocoa. The Amarone of Prà is always so unique but in the best possible way. The 2016 is a total gem but needs cellaring to come fully into focus." Vinous

Some say that this wine is the most typical example of Arianna Occhipinti's pure yet impressive style. Its intensity and purity are also unmistakable in this current edition. Grotte Alte is bursting with fresh cherry, raspberry, wild rose, balsam herb and a hint of iron ore or rusty nails. The fruit blend is equal parts Nero d'Avola and Frappato and the result shows impeccable balance and graceful composure. On the palate, the wine is pleasantly lean, but there is still enough texture and richness to allow for a long, silky finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"The vineyards of Occhipinti are located on the limestone rock typical of the area, and most of the vines are grown ad alberello (upside down bush vines). An intense aroma of red cherries, wild flowers and herbal notes is followed by a deep, lively and persistent flavour." Decanter

"The Cerasuolo di Vittoria Grotte Alte 2018 is unique and complex. It opens with an herb-accentuated bouquet that blends lavender with blueberry jam, crushed stones and floral undergrowth. It opens with a pretty inner sweetness enhanced by textures of pure silk, but the experience is serene and almost juicy. Citrus fruits and autumnal spices emerge towards the end. The 2018 finishes with tremendous length and potency, leaving a lingering aftertaste of tart blackberries and liquid stone. In a word: captivating." Vinous

Neris Brunello 2019 is a classic wine with pleasant contrasts and a focussed structure. Ripe dark fruit and autumnal spices contrast with savoury herbs and a hint of animal musk. The palate is silky, cool and airy, with a noticeable inner sweetness in the polished cherry and berry flavours, then veers more towards inner earth and minerals, showing beautifully articulated and grippy tannins. Streamlined and compact in the mouth with a lively, racy finish and great potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dense, delicately reductive bouquet that beguiles with plenty of typical cherry and pomegranate fruit as well as blue fruits such as plums, backed by tobacco and dark gianduja chocolate as well as balsamic nuances. Elegant, incredibly full-bodied palate with juicy contours and grippy, yet sweet tannins. A grippy, animating, long final with cranberry juice, orange peel and delicately reductive, savoury notes. Good potential." Weinwisser

"Powerful ruby colour with a light garnet rim. Very appealing, open nose, with notes of wild raspberry and blackberry, plus fresh tobacco and a fine spicy note. Polished and fine on the attack and on the palate, showing lots of juicy, dark fruit paired with dense tannins, spans a wide arc, very good drinking flow." Falstaff

"Redcurrants and lavender, followed by layers of dried herbs and spices. Full-bodied and lush on the palate with chewy tannins. Persistent long finish with citrus flavours. Still young, healthy and concentrated. Very attractive now and in the future." James Suckling

"The core of ripe cherry fruit is complemented by woody, mushroomy, ferrous, spicy and savoury flavours in this intense red, with a long, resonant aftertaste. Although balanced, it could use a few more years to reach its sweet spot." Wine Spectator

"The Casanova di Neri 2019 Brunello di Montalcino shows dense fruit tissue with hints of undergrowth, pressed rose, light cherry, tobacco and balanced oak spice. This wine definitely has a special furrow. It offers a ripe, round texture with good acidity, followed by fine, chalky tannins. This is an impressive quality. In fact, this is one of the best village Brunellos that Giacomo Neri and his family have produced to date." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino lifts from the glass with a lovely floral bouquet, mixing rose petal, lavender and violet with hints of worn leather and dusty earth. This is a model of balance and purity, with crisp wild berry fruits guided by fresh acidity as a cascade of sweet spice gives way to fine-grained tannins toward the close. It finishes impossibly long and staining yet still fresh, tapering off classically structured and dry. The future is bright for this wonderfully harmonious White Label Brunello from Casanova di Neri." Vinous

"A great classic of the house, a work of impeccable finesse between land and cellar for an emblematic product. On the nose, raspberry, a hint of white pepper, a touch of laurel and peony, then nuances of sweet liquorice. Salty and juicy in the mouth, with raspberry and floral notes." Luca Gardini

Vigna del Sorbo pleases at first sight with its full, strong ruby red. It takes over the nose with a clear, intense fruitiness, to which herbaceous notes add, before the wide, consistent flavour and the straightforward, flawless final set in. An excellent harmony between structure and elegance and for years one of the greatest Gran Selezione in Chianti Classico. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, deep ruby. Rich and fleshy nose, smells of blackberry and ripe plum, some cinnamon in the background. Meaty and gripping also on the palate, lots of dark berry fruit, opens with present, dense tannin." Falstaff

"The Fontodi 2017 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is expressive, dark and thickly concentrated. I received my samples early and found that this wine was a little shy or slow to open in this early phase. If given extra time, the bouquet warms up to dark fruit, plum, rum cake and dried violet. I came back to the wine about two hours later and discovered a pretty note of crushed aspirin or carbon, with more crushed flower. The oak adds sweet spice and scorched earth, but these too will integrate with time." Wine Advocate

"Powerful, tight red with currant and plum character. Hints of new wood and bark. Full-bodied with dark berries and hints of dark chocolate, as well as other dark fruit. Flavorful finish. Solid. Needs time to open." James Suckling

"The summer was dry and warm without extreme heat and leading up to harvest, the nights cooled down substantially. His Vigna del Sorbo is one of the top wines among a robust set of stellar offerings from this outstanding vintage. It is remarkable for the freshness and purity that rises above the concentration and density. A mix of smoke, liquorice , black cherry and thyme emerges slowly. Even in their commanding grip, the tannins are perfectly polished and sophisticated. Full, packed with fruit but with incredible agility and lip-smacking tanginess, this lingers with fragrant earth, tobacco and crushed stone. For the long-haul." Decanter

"The 2017 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is a dense, packed wine. It is also surprisingly, almost shockingly backward. That is probably a good thing for its long-term aging prospects. Readers hoping to get an early glimpse into the 2017 before it shuts down may have a hard time doing that, as today acids and tannin dominate. I expect the 2017 will be stellar in another 4-5 years." Vinous

Every year, Fratta is a groundbreaking blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot that you can't help but love. Fratta proved the Veneto's potential for winemaking when it was first produced in 1977, the year Angela Maculan (a second daughter) was born. Deep, complex fruit bouquet, rounded off with fine sweet spices, tobacco and coffee. On the palate, beautiful lines and a sharp focus with dry mineral tones framing dark fruits, dried cherries and exotic spices. Fratta is a bold and big wine and there is no doubting the profound elegance of this highly personalised expression. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, almost impenetrable violet colour with ruby. Very fragrant nose of juicy cherries, cassis, some red pepper, violets and earth. Lots of sweet fruit on the palate, embedded in grippy, hard tannins, spicy, almost savoury, on bitter chocolate, still a little overhanging wood on the finish, still quite harsh on the final." Falstaff

"A deep and dense nose of redcurrants and black cherries and a hint of slightly charred oak. Medium bodied with a cool and crystalline feel on the palate. The tannins are still firm, but the super-pure fruit pushes through beautifully. Best from 2025." James Suckling

"Dark and balsamic in the glass, the 2018 Fratta displays aromas of crushed blackberry and wild blueberry accompanied by lavender, clove and camphor. This wine is supremely elegant and refined, with a polished wave of ripe red and blue fruits supported by a core of vibrant acidity, while cooling mineral tones provide a breezy lift towards the finish. This heady experience is emphasised by sweet tannins and a slightly bitter spiciness, while the 2018 finishes long and classically structured. The inner harmony that Maculan has captured here is breathtaking." Vinous

"A traditional and complex Bordeaux from Veneto. Notes of blackberry jam, black peppercorns, a hint of marjoram and nutmeg. Salty and fruity on the palate, with a spicy finish." Luca Gardini

Contrada Rampante grows on the highest vineyard in Passopisciaro. The soils have a higher proportion of sand and the harvest takes place later here. Dark red cherries, flowers, mint and liquorice on the nose. Rampante is an elegant, energetic and dynamic red with clear fruit and silky tannins. SUPERIORE.DE

"Contrada Rampante rises steeply above 1,000 metres on pyroclastic, sandy soils. Deep dark cherry, herb and spice notes are accompanied by textural, cheek-coating tannins. Fragrant scents of lavender, wild herbs and Parma violets emerge on the mid-palate, along with a wash of fresh acidity. Intense, ferrous, saline and spicy, this is a class act." Decanter

"The 2022 Etna Rosso Contrada Rampante is intense, wafting up with all of the volcanic ash and stones that make up its soils, complicated by grilled herbs and citrus-laced blackberries. This is surprisingly juicy and energetic in feel, with a wave of vibrantly ripe red and blue fruits that swirl throughout as tactile minerals collect toward the close. It finishes with teeth-coating tannins and concentration, leaving a sensation of liquid stone and a resonance of tart cranberry toward the close. Wow, I swear I can sense the soil of the vineyard in the glass." Vinous

"Beguiling nose of red fruit and pistachios, with flowers and black pepper enhancing the aromas. The attack is a bit raw, with edgy tannins and crisp acidity. It’s medium- to full-bodied and chewy, with a balanced finish. It needs time to soften the structure, but displays a tight, crunchy youthful style that will match well with food and has the potential for aging. This high-altitude vineyard delivers greatness." James Suckling

Passopisciaro's Contrada C is an exquisite red with a dark, sensual bouquet of red fruits and rose petals. Stylistically like a great Pinot Noir or Nebbiolo, with remarkable intensity on the palate right through to the lingering final. A wine that is both muscular and weightless. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium, bright ruby red colour with a brightening rim. Very delicate and elegant nose of raspberries and strawberries, a hint of rosehips, spicy paired with thyme and green tea, underlaid with leather flavours. Very clear and filigree on the palate with a delicate fruit centre and excellent tannins, with an animating flow on the long final." Falstaff

"Contrada C comes from Contrada Chiappemacine, located 550 metres above sea level in Passopisciaro. An intense and fleshy core of ripe cherries and strawberries is supported by good acidity with flecks of wild mint and fine, round tannins. Generous, yet balanced and poised, it is a flavoursome red wine with floral notes on the juicy finish." Decanter

"The 2022 Etna Rosso Contrada Chiappemacine is rosy and perfumed with hints of exotic spices that fade into notes of dried strawberries. It is supple and round, quite elegant in flavour, with crisp minerality and crunchy wild berry fruit. The wine is full of energy and has a balanced primary concentration. The 2022 finishes long, structured and fresh. There is great potential here. Contrada Chiappemacine combines volcanic soils at the higher elevations with limestone at the lower levels. This is an understated beauty." Vinous

Silvia Imparato's noble Montevetrano is one of Riccardo Cotarella's first creations and certainly one of his most important to this day. Deep ruby red with violet reflections. Rich aromas of dark plums, blackcurrants, cedar, graphite and minerals on the captivating nose. Clean, fresh, juicy on the palate with an engaging, refined texture. There are liquorice and violet aromas on the long, graceful and layered finish. A very promising, still young Montevetrano with a great future! SUPERIORE.DE

"The Montevetrano 2019 captivates with a rich blend of brown spices, tobacco, cherries soaked in rum, menthol and mint. It is classy and polished, with textures of pure silk and a massive core of dark red and black fruits that slowly saturate the palate. The 2019 finishes classically dry and incredibly long, with fine-grained tannins framing nuances of wild blueberries and sage. What a beauty. The 2019 Montevetrano is a beautifully composed blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Aglianico and 20% Merlot." Vinous

"This wine is one of the icons of southern Italy. It maintains its timeless character over the years, in good vintages as well as bad. The 2019 Montevetrano embodies the charisma and elegance of the very good vintage recorded in Campania with cool nights, good humidity and average summer temperatures. The blend is 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Aglianico and 20% Merlot from a five hectare site with clay soils. The bouquet reveals dark cherries and black plums with baker's chocolate and exotic spices. The Aglianico gives the wine a particular black fruit quality that is almost tarry, and this grape comes through particularly well in the blend, as it should, being one of the original "Super Campania" wines." Wine Advocate

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

"Cherries and chocolate jump off the nose before earthy aromas take over, from mushrooms to dirt to underbrush and moss. The palate echoes these notes, carrying them through a long mocha-infused finish with rigid, durable tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"The haunting dark and floral 2019 Nobile di Montepulciano Vecchie Viti del Salco combines exotic spices with crushed dried flowers, spiced cherries and ginger nuances. It is extremely silky, with no hard edges in sight. A polished wave of ripe red berries washes over the palate, leaving a hint of minerality and fine tannins. The 2019 is powerful and incredibly long, with a primary concentration that lasts until the long and structured final. Made from 100% Prugnolo Gentile (Sangiovese) from thirty-five year old vines, it's a real stunner." Vinous

Ruby garnet colour, fine violet notes and lots of spices on the nose. Dense and compact with taut tannins and sweet fruit flavours. 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

"Elegant, sparkling, medium ruby red with garnet reflections. On the nose, a multi-faceted bouquet of raspberries, orange peel and pomegranate, delicately combined with red rose petals and a hint of thyme. Very delicate and inviting on the palate, with a harmonious balance between pleasant freshness and fine-grained tannins, juicy and mineral on the long final." Falstaff

"Contrada Guardiola lies at around 800 metres just down the road from Rampante, and it gives a rounder, fuller, more generous expression of Nerello Mascalese. Fragrant lavender and herb aromas with red berry notes introduce a tightly tannic palate with underlying forest berries and creamy notes. Supporting acidity balances the weight of the tannins and extends the long, fresh finish." Decanter

"Earthy strawberries, dried flowers and soft spices on the nose. On the palate the wine is crunchy, with a medium body and crisp acidity. The tight, firm tannins are still youthful in the finish. Drinkable now, but will improve in complexity with aging." James Suckling

"Smoky and ashy in the glass, the 2022 Etna Rosso Contrada Guardiola opens with a burst of ashen stones and grilled herbs, evolving into crushed black cherries and lifted by hints of menthol. It sweeps across the palate with textures of pure silk as a polished wave of red and black fruits swirls around a core of lively acidity. Its structure comes through on the finish as a staining of primary concentration adds a firm grip. Saline minerals linger under an air of inner florals. This is a wine that contrasts stunning depth with an energetic feel." Vinous

What begins with a seductive bouquet of delicate plums and a hint of mint gains volume and depth as grilled sage and rum-soaked blackcurrants mingle with sweet tobacco and allspice. Its texture is silky and fleshy, accompanied by a nervous acidity, while ripe black cherries and a hint of cranberry sauce create a sweet and sour tension on the palate. The concentration is astonishing, yet the energy remains incredibly high, even if the grippy tannins increase towards the end. Notes of sour citrus fruits, savoury herbs and tart wild berries linger incredibly long in the structured yet remarkably fresh final. Only around 3,000 bottles of this cru are produced and it is a real must-have for all Aglianico lovers! SUPERIORE.DE

"Very dark carmine red colour. The first impression is oak spice, but no sweetness. Spicy black fruits with a hint of smoke. Powerful yet very elegant, fine tannin structure, with the tannins increasing on the finish. Refined and long and yet so youthful." Jancis Robinson

"You certainly won't regret it if you give the Aglianico Siope 2016 some time to open up in the glass. What starts as delicate plums with a hint of mint gains volume and depth as grilled sage and rum-soaked blackcurrants mingle with sweet tobacco and allspice. To be honest, you could get lost in this bouquet. Its texture is silky and fleshy, accompanied by a nervous acidity, while ripe black cherries and a hint of cranberry sauce create a sweet and sour tug-of-war on the palate. The concentration is amazing, yet the energy remains incredibly high, even as the grippy tannins pick up towards the finish. Notes of sour citrus, savoury herbs and tart wild berries linger incredibly long on the structured yet remarkably fresh final. Only 3080 bottles of this cru bottling were produced, and lovers of Aglianico owe it to themselves to discover this wine." Vinous

Earthy notes on the nose, only gradually revealing ripe strawberries, spicy herbs, leather and some coffee. As it progresses, spicy orange peel, sour cherry and mint, followed by salty minerals. The lively acidity ensures that the wine remains fresh and supple despite its compact structure. The initially firm tannins gracefully envelop the pretty fruit core with further aeration, and in the long final we then discover sweet spices and traces of white pepper. SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep ruby with a rich garnet rim. Opens on the nose with emphatically ripe notes of pickled cherries and dried plums, plus lots of molasses, seems like a Brunello from days gone by. Blossoms on the palate, lots of ripe fruit, opens with hearty, grippy tannins, lots of power, delicately bitter final." Falstaff

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino captivates with dark, balsamic-tinged black cherries, plum sauce and autumnal spices. It is velvety to the core, almost opulent on the palate, with a dense wave of ripe red fruits complemented by nuances of sweet lavender and tobacco. It leaves the palate with fine tannins and a primary concentration that create a classic feel that transcends the vintage. Almost a minute passes with notes of cocoa and sweet herbs still lingering. Wonderful! Production at the Pertimali estate was down 20% due to the spring frost, and they decided to put all the juice normally destined for the Riserva into the pure Brunello, resulting in one of the top wines of the vintage." Vinous

"The nose is fruity and fizzy, like cherry cola, with roots and mixed herbs bringing a welcome savory element. The palate is sweet and juicy with cherries, but balance comes from an undertone of dark chocolate, before the nose's lightly medicinal quality emerges again. Acidity positively fizzes around powerful tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"Intense aromas of black cherries, lavender and spices, like nutmeg. Also some sandalwood and bark. Full-bodied with a solid core of fruit and tannins for the vintage. Rather viscous, suggesting that further bottle ageing is required." James Suckling

Caparzo's La Casa vineyard, located in an enviable position on the hill of Montosoli, has been vinified separately since 1977 and is one of the first single-vineyard bottlings in Montalcino. Like regular Brunello, La Casa has a surprising underlying acidity that gives the wine brightness and focus, the northern exposure of the parcel certainly playing a role. Fresh herbs and pomegranate contrast with nuances of sun-baked earth and incense. On the palate, the wine is very full-bodied and concentrated, with tactile tannins, yet remains fresh and flowing at all times. SUPERIORE.DE

"Even on the nose, it is much more complex and interesting than the "normal" Brunello, with ripe candied cherries, fine floral notes, violets, lavender, but also mineral and earthy notes such as iron. Very elegant and quite precise on the palate, intense and present, with wonderfully ripe tannins and sweet berries, showing origin and character with a multi-layered final and powerful Sangiovese spice." Weinwisser

"Intense, finely spiced bouquet with fresh berry flavours, also a floral component; solid texture, the tannin-acid structure in balance, polished finish on notes of stone fruit, tobacco and eucalyptus." Vinum

"Dark, bright ruby red colour. Filigree and multi-layered expression on the nose, reminiscent of raspberries and blackberries, dried tomatoes and balsamic tones. Opens up smoothly on the palate, fine-meshed, grippy tannins at the core, dark fruit, fine balsamic notes, long finish." Falstaff

"Subtle power and plenty of cherry, plum and mineral flavours in this soft red wine, plus a hint of wild herbs. It's quite fluid and open, with a slight tannic abrasion on the lingering finish." Wine Spectator

"Subtle mocha and crushed allspice emerge, then finally wild, red forest berries. The palate is more exuberant, revealing a generous core of pure, delicious raspberries infused with vanilla and liquorice. The gravelly tannins remain firmly anchored and need time to resolve. An appetising, stony finish." Decanter

"The Brunello di Montalcino Vigna La Casa 2019 comes from the hills of Montosoli, opposite the town of Montalcino. It is youthfully moody and dark in the glass, slowly evolving with violet flowers, crushed wild berries and sweet spices. Silky and supple, it swings across the palate with a juicy texture of mineral red fruits, while floral notes resonate on the inside and grippy tannins come in towards the end. The Vigna La Casa finishes long, structured and classically dry, leaving a hint of liquorice and a touch of tart orange lingering on the tongue. The future is very promising, but the 2019 will require a lot of patience." Vinous

"The Caparzo 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna La Casa offers a balanced presentation of candied cherries, dried fruit and toasted spices. This is a beautiful and joyful wine with velvety soft tannins and good internal energy that adds dimension and depth to the mouthfeel. Vigna La Casa is a contemporary expression of Montalcino with added fruit concentration and structure, and the results are carefully balanced throughout." Wine Advocate

"Flavours of blueberries, blackberries and chocolate, yet subtle and perfumed. Full-bodied with chewy tannins and plenty of structure. Shows depth and has a purpose. Needs time to develop soon. Try it after 2027." James Suckling

Ruby garnet colour, fine notes of violets and roses and lots of spices on the nose. Dense and compact with taut tannins and sweet fruit flavours. Given time, this captivating red is at the beginning of a long, promising development. SUPERIORE.DE

"Fine, clear bouquet reminiscent of Burgundy with sweet red berries, grenadine, wild cherry and earthy-floral nuances. Juicy red fruit and sweet spices on the palate, already quite accessible, spanned by a fine, juicy acidity. A finesse-rich final." Weinwisser

"Medium, bright ruby red with garnet reflections. Ripe, delicate redcurrant and pomegranate fruit on the nose, with a hint of rosehip, accompanied by violets and black pepper. Very juicy on the palate with animating freshness, filigree tannins and a lingering, tense final with a mineral aftertaste." Falstaff

"A complex nose of almost vermouth-like aromas, dried cherries, cinnamon, oak bark, rich black cherries and hints of smoke. Firm tannin and acidity with a full body, a tight-knit finish and restrained toastiness in the aftertaste." James Suckling

"The 2022 Etna Rosso Contrada Sciaranuova is youthfully coy, with a dusty blend of dried flowers, earth tones and ash wafting up from the glass. Silky yet lifted and finessed, it sweeps across the palate with medium-weight textures and bright red berry fruits. Its minerality comes through on the finish, enhanced by a bump of brilliant acidity as it tapers off long, staining and with crunchy tannins that resonate on. Utterly classic. While backward today, the Sciaranuova is harmonious and shows incredible potential." Vinous

Silvia Imparato's noble Montevetrano is one of Riccardo Cotarella's first creations and certainly one of his most important to this day. Deep ruby red in colour with violet reflections. Rich aromas of dark plums, blackcurrants, cedar wood, graphite and minerals on the captivating nose. Clean, fresh, juicy and with an engaging, refined texture on the palate. The long, graceful and multi-layered finish has liquorice and violet aromas. A very promising, still young Montevetrano with a great future! SUPERIORE.DE

"A classy red with blackcurrant and black cherry flavours that are ripe and vibrant, while a dark, rich undertone of fig cake, mocha, graphite and smoke also resonate. Shows good focus and length in a lean, balanced style, with fine-grained, supple tannins firming up the well-spiced, persistent finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2021 Montevetrano is youthful yet irresistible, with a bouquet of dried black cherries, cedar spice and a hint of mint pouring from the glass. It's cool to the touch, with a silky texture and a wave of ripe red and blue fruits swirling under a hint of violets and lavender. The finish is fresh and classically structured, with spicy oak notes and a tart cranberry note lingering. Although the 2021 vintage was warm, it benefited from rainfall in mid-August, which brought much cooler conditions for the rest of the season." Vinous

"This 30th anniversary bottling is a creamy, polished and fragrant red showing ripe plum, cherry, lavender, vanilla and sweet cocoa aromas. It’s full-bodied with broad and encompassing tannins, yet remains elegant and beautifully balanced. Lightly chalky in texture." James Suckling

One of the best Syrah in Tuscany with extraordinarily complex aromas such as cassis, praline, exotic spices, black tea and clove. Very dense on the palate, cleanly structured, delicious of ripe black fruits and with earthy notes. Velvety tannins and a long harmonious impression form the impressive final. SUPERIORE.DE

"A big, powerful syrah with a heady nose of violet essence, dried blueberries, sweet tobacco, mocha, vanilla, cracked pepper and grilled meat. Full-bodied with firm, ripe tannins and a chewy and fleshy palate. Delicious sweet-spice notes. Intense. Drink from 2023." James Suckling

"The delightful 2019 Syrah Collezione Privata opens to dark fruit, spice, pepper, crushed stone, blue flower and milky blueberry. The wine handles its oak nicely (with 18 months in barrique, including French oak and a tiny percentage of American oak, and one-third new barrel). It delivers seamless integration, especially in this concentrated vintage, pitting freshness against fruit weight and primary intensity. Its texture is soft and creamy." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Syrah Collezione Privata is quite delicate and silky in this vintage, with a distinctly red-fruited profile that is unusual. Spice, orange peel, dried flowers and white pepper lend brightness to a Syrah that is both deep and light on its feet. I especially admire the vibrancy here." Vinous

With the 2006 vintage, Monsanto's Vin Santo was released for the first time as "Occhio di Pernice", i.e. it was made from 100% Sangiovese grapes. It is only vinified in the very best years, the grapes are carefully harvested by hand in October and then placed on special racks where they rest until the beginning of the following year. After gentle pressing, the must is sealed and fermented in small oak, cherry and chestnut barrels in the Vinsantaia, where it is exposed to seasonal temperature fluctuations.

The Chimera sparkles majestically from the glass with its dark copper and garnet red reflections; the colour of the Sangiovese grape is immediately recognisable. The bouquet opens with maple syrup, brown sugar, chocolate and dried plums. On the palate, the wine is surprisingly weightless, balanced, graceful and of terrificdepth. An extremely convincing and high-class Occhio di Pernice with a long life expectancy. SUPERIORE.DE

"An intense Vin Santo with a rich caramel-like character, offering dried fruit, walnuts, a hint of chocolate and a touch of mushrooms on the nose. Full and creamy with plenty of depth and density. It is sweet with a hint of volatility that refreshes the wine and gives it direction and tone at this stage. Nutty and chocolaty on the finish." James Suckling

"The Castello di Monsanto 2006 Vin Santo del Chianti Classico Occhio di Pernice La Chimera shows a dark amber colour with ruby and crimson hues. The freshness of the acidity stands out and gives this wine a great injection of life and energy. The bouquet is centred on candied fruit, orange marmalade and plum brandy." Wine Advocate

"The 2006 Vin Santo del Chianti Classico Occhio di Pernice is a wild, exotic wine. The long time in barrel concentrated the flavours, but the bright acids add a degree of freshness - quite remarkable for a sweet wine that is almost 20 years old. Nutmeg, dried flowers, candied figs and tobacco take shape in this complex, moderately sweet vin santo. This marvellous wine is a time machine in a glass." Vinous

"Grilled walnut, caramel, burnt sugar and kumquat flavors highlight this complex dessert wine. Feels more off-dry, with light sweetness and the feel of an Oloroso Sherry. Terrific length. Bring on the nuts and cheeses." Wine Spectator

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Titolo Superiore is a selection that is refined for 12 months in tonneaux, followed by 12 months in used barrels and finally 12 months in the bottle. It has a dark, musky style and reveals an earthy bouquet intermingled with grilled herbs and blackcurrants. It flows across the palate like pure silk, gaining further tension as the mineral fruits of the forest slowly come to the fore. Firm and well-proportioned tannins glide into the finish, which is structured, long and almost salty. Citrus fruits and residual acids provide a refined freshness. Wonderful! SUPERIORE.DE

"Broodingly dark fruit with peppercorns, earthy funk and dried black fruit. Chewy and full-bodied on the palate, with bold tannins that still need time to resolve. It slowly opens up with some time in the glass." James Suckling

"The 2020 Aglianico del Vulture Superiore Titolo opens with a mentholated freshness, while a cascade of musky blackberry, sage, ash and dried violets meets a hint of sweet smoke. This wine is supple and racy, with a silky texture and a core of tart wild berries. Zesty acidity adds energy, while salty minerals and notes of tart citrus develop towards the finish. The 2020 finishes long and colours the palate with grippy tannins and a pleasant bitterness, but a wonderful freshness remains. This is a dark and radiant beast that requires long cellaring. Elena Fucci has only produced two barrels of this wine." Vinous

Castello Romitorio's 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is a classic expression of the 5-star vintage in Montalcino (consortium rating), showing plenty of ripe fruit, minerality, herbal nuances and varietal purity. This wine hits the sweet spot between elegance and power, which is not easy to achieve. It offers a wide range of Sangiovese flavours with wild cherry, forest floor, crushed clove and medicinal herbs, but it also shows a plump density and a velvety texture. Filippo Chia and his team have created a highly attractive Brunello for medium to long drinking. SUPERIORE.DE

"Densely spicy, compact bouquet with dark cherry, tart fruit and spice on the palate; compact, powerful style with a racy finish, very classic, noticeable tannin and grip, beautiful freshness and spice on the final." Weinwisser

"Dark, bright ruby red colour. Ripe cherry, milk chocolate and cold smoke on the nose, roasted almonds and mint on the finish, multi-layered. Lively entry on the palate, precise acidity and fresh fruit, taut and juicy, fine-grained tannins, with grip, persistent and balanced on the finish, with elegant iron tones." Falstaff

"Brilliant ruby red colour. Somewhat spicy and still quite dense on the nose. Compact cherry fruit on the palate with plenty of depth. Adequate concentration with plenty of supple acidity and a core of gravelly tannins. Still needs some time, but is very promising. Beautiful label." Jancis Robinson

"Polished and refined wine with flavours of wild strawberries, dark cherries and violets, rich and full-bodied with balanced, soft acidity. Firm and fine-grained tannins. Energetic. Better after 2027." James Suckling

"The charming 2019 from Romitorio emphasises the juiciness of Sangiovese. It delights with aromas of sweet, damp earth, sage and cocoa. Spacious and airy on the palate, where juicy, citrus-like acidity drives flavours of pomegranate and orange. Elegantly framed by fine, slender tannins. A woody intensity emerges on the finish. A pleasure even at this youthful stage." Decanter

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino opens with dried cassis and cranberry, and there is a hint of something floral and fragile, like crushed red rose petals or potpourri. However, the wine also shows a growing momentum, especially as it opens up in the glass and you start to recognise dark spices, cloves, bay leaf and thyme. There's a hint of sweetness in the mid-palate, even some dried raspberry, which makes the wine more approachable overall." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is seductively dark and spicy, exuding an earthy blend of crushed stones, savoury herbs, spiced blood oranges and dried cherries in the glass. The palate is spoilt by its soft texture and the deep fruit of wild berries. Lively acidity and mineral tones give it lift, but also depth. The 2019 finishes dramatically long and structured, youthfully withdrawing into itself as orange and rosy floral flavours linger. The house style comes into its own here, emphasised by the radiant fruit of the 2019 vintage." Vinous

"The result of thirty years of research and selection of the most suitable parcels is a compact Brunello with notes of Marasca on the nose, with a hint of wild mint and a touch of soya. In the mouth it is salty and taut, the tannins are perfectly integrated into the body and the finish is long and persistent." Luca Gardini

"Notable for its pure cherry and kirsch aromas and flavors, this red is also stylish and graceful. Rose, wild thyme and stony mineral elements come into play as this develops on the palate. Beautifully integrated, fresh and firm, this glides to a long, resonant aftertaste." Wine Spectator

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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