VINOUS

First bottled in 1967, the Masseria comes from a vineyard in Bricco di Neive and is essentially vinified and aged like a Barolo. Since the 2018 vintage, it now comes from a small parcel that used to belong to the Barbaresco winery Socré, and it is now deliberately released a year later to provide more harmony and balance.

Floral and spicy notes meld with a core of rich, generous fruit in a generous Barbaresco based on pure resonance. Masseria is vinified and aged like Vietti's single-vineyard Barolos. This means long fermentation, six months in French oak and more than two years in barrique. This, together with the top vintage of 2019 and the broad shoulders of Neive, results in a Barbaresco with clear Barolo hints. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Vietti 2019 Barbaresco Roncaglie Masseria helps to fill out this wide portfolio of wines representing the best of Piedmont. This winery was able to recently acquire new land in this cru site, now totaling two hectares of vines, thus giving considerably more fruit to this program. This Barbaresco is released one year after its peers to show additional depth and fullness, especially in this naturally concentrated vintage. Dark fruit and cherry cedes to pretty spice and tar." Wine Advocate

"Complex aromas of blackberries and black truffle with some lavender. Full-bodied with velvety tannins that spread across the palate. Rich and deep on the finish, with fantastic length and gravitas." James Suckling

"The 2019 Barbaresco Masseria Roncaglie is the best Barbaresco I have ever tasted from Vietti. Bright, translucent and full of energy, the 2019 is stunning from the first sip, and it was poured after all the Barolos in the range. Crushed flowers, sweet red berry fruit, cinnamon, mint and orange peel all grace this exquisite, stunning Barbaresco. The 2019 is pure and full of finesse. For many years, Barbaresco was the hidden gem in this range. I'm not sure how long that will last. The 2019 is outrageously beautiful. Don't miss it!" Vinous

Terlano I (pronounced Primo) Grande Cuvée is the name of the white flagship of Cantina Terlano. In recent years, the winery has made a name for itself worldwide with its long-lasting, mineral white wines. Even years later, the wines still present themselves with top freshness and great complexity. With this long history of white wines, since the 2011 vintage there is now a wine in which the essence of Terlan is expressed in an even more focussed way. Terlaner I Grande Cuvée combines the Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay and Sauvignon grape varieties from the Winkl, Kreuth and Vorberg vineyards to create a masterpiece which, due to its limited and exclusive nature, will only be available from hand-picked retailers and in selected top restaurants.

Brilliant straw yellow colour. Rich and complex on the nose with flavours of citrus fruit, white pepper and herbs as well as a delicate smoky note. Remarkable structure and refined texture that give it finesse, elegance and an unmistakable character. The extraordinarily long and salty finish leaves an almost endless impression as an expression of a unique mineral terroir. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, pale straw yellow colour with green components. Intense and very clear nose, impressive, starts with notes of flint, then white peach, apricot and grapefruit, very clear and precise, fresh sage in the background. Juicy and extremely round in attack and finish, fresh apricot and grapefruit, salty on the final, very long finish, spans a wide range." Falstaff

"A hint of fragrant spices and white flowers surround the flavours of ripe pineapple, tangerine peel, white cherry and Marcona almond. The palate is expressive and rich, but the mouth-watering acidity provides a smooth and harmonious frame without excessive weight. This beautiful version is long and lush on the finish, where a mineral underpainting emerges to linger alongside the beautiful profile." Wine Spectator

"The Terlaner I Primo Grande Cuvée 2021 is intense and mineral from the start. It opens with a beguiling blend of flint, camphor and white smoke, before moving on to dried peaches and apricots. The palate is ripe yet refined, with a silky texture that takes on a savoury note as tart fruit cascades, complicated by a spicy hint of ginger. The 2021 is long, long, long, youthfully tense and gently tannic, with a crunchy feel and the impression of liquid stone lingering beneath a hint of pretty inner flowers. The potential is unmistakable. This is an I Primo for the ages." Vinous

"Tropical mango, pineapple and melon overlay the delicious grassy and floral undertones. The wine shines with its elegance, mineral structure and citrus acidity: simultaneously rich and incredibly refreshing with an amazing length. True perfection." Decanter

"Classic peach stone aroma with an elegance reminiscent of Corton Charlemagne, full of flintstone minerality, lime blossom and pink grapefruit. Initially delicate on the palate, with concentrated fruit, weight and vibrancy, with great harmony and balance. A tight structure between fruit and acidity leads to a long, fruity and very refreshing finish. Drink now or store for decades." James Suckling

Vintage 2018 marks Vietti's exciting Barolo debut from one of Piedmont's most famous vineyards, characterised by exuberant aromas and bright, red-tinged fruit. The bouquet is enormously opulent with ripe fruit aromas ranging from wild cherry to red currant. This is joined by original tones of jam, plum and a hint of ragout. The palate is nuanced and very deep, with enormous complexity, volume and character. Vietti's Cerequio is stunning right off the bat! SUPERIORE.DE

"The Vietti winery is a newcomer to this prestigious MGA: multi-layered aromatics of red fruits, flowers, wood spice; the approach is polished, possesses precise acidity and pithy tannin, intense fresh fruit finish. Pleases with its elegant style." Vinum

"Wonderfully fruit-presence of cassis and blood oranges, fresh tea leaves, roses and moss; highly refined velvety substance, casually taut draw, mineral notes, lively and playful with great length and fine fruity finish, great class. Vietti's new site is one of the best of the vintage!" Weinwisser

"Shiny, rich ruby with a slight garnet shimmer. Compact and appealing nose, full of ripe plums, some blackberry, plus lots of white truffle. Shows fine melting on the palate, opens with grippy, present tannin in fine layers, juicy and salty on the final." Falstaff

"Aromas of raspberries and citrus transition to a medium-bodied palate with very fine tannins and a slightly firm finish. Quite a lightweight, but nicely balanced." James Suckling

"The 2018 Barolo Cerequio is a new wine in this range. The Cerequio is characterised by its exuberant aromas and bright, red-tinged fruit. Nuanced and deep, with tremendous complexity and lots of character, the Cerequio is stunning. This is everything a great Barolo from Cerequio should be. In other words, textbook. More than that, it is one of the best wines of this very inconsistent vintage." Vinous

"Here is an exciting new submission from Vietti. The 2018 Barolo Cerequio is beautiful, with a broad and rich bouquet that paints a panoramic vision of this MGA spanning the villages of La Morra and Barolo. Despite this broad vision, this wine also stands out for its subtle aromas of wild cherry, gravel and black liquorice. Cerequio is a wine of great breadth and depth. Taut tannins help to bring it together into a comprehensive whole. Only 4,925 bottles of this first release were made. Congratulations." Wine Advocate

"From a small parcel in the classic cru of the commune of Barolo, about 35 years old plants. The aroma has a nice intensity, notes of red cherries, then undergrowth, eucalyptus and a nice finish. On the palate, balsamic and juniper notes, spicy tannins and great persistence." Luca Gardini

Schiena d'Asino is a small vineyard from which this fabulous Brunello is produced exclusively in excellent years. Schiena captivates with its richness and overall intensity and is endowed with a lot of energy and varietal purity. Sage, rosemary and a host of Mediterranean herbs open up first, followed by graphite, smoke, incense, dark spices and black stone fruits. Wild, intensely mineral notes underpin the fruit and capture the essence of the great site. For an exceptional wine, this Brunello remains remarkably light on its feet, yet it is an introspective, brooding wine that will need at least a few years to show all it has to offer. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, rich ruby garnet. Finely marked nose with notes of rose petals, some raspberry, fine spice in the background. Builds up richly on the palate, dark berry fruit, opens with grippy, dense tannin, still shows itself very young." Falstaff

"Developing mid ruby. Brooding and intense on the nose with hints of graphite and filled out by oak. Full mouth of juicy, spicy cherry fruit framed by bags of delicious, chewy tannins. Very long and deep and gorgeously balanced. Tactile fireworks. Ready now but will hold." Jancis Robinson

"A historic vineyard for the denomination and for the winery, which returns in a version of great concentration, aged in Alliers oak. Nose of wild plum, with touches of Mediterranean scrub and chinotto. Mouth with savory-salty tannins, finish with fruity return." Luca Gardini

"This is structured and muscular, yet in a toned and polished way. It’s full-bodied with a linear and racy nature, showing focused black-cherry, orange-peel and berry character. Flavorful and extremely long. Better after 2024." James Suckling

"Forest floor, violet and camphor aromas come to the forefront along with whiffs of toasted nut on this full-bodied red. It's elegant and structured, featuring dried cherry, tobacco and licorice framed in tightly knit, fine-grained tannins, while fresh acidity keeps it balanced. Give it time to fully develop." Wine Enthusiast

"A lithe, focused red, evoking strawberry, cherry, currant, spice and tobacco flavors. Shows intensity and grip, with accents of leather and licorice chiming in on the finish. Well-structured and lingers on the chalky, mineral aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"Planted in 1978, the 1.2ha Schiena d’Asino plot boasts a southeast to southwest exposition reaching almost 400 metres above sea level on stony, clay soil. Long ageing in 16-hectolitre French oak casks is followed by a year in bottle before release. The 2016 surfaces from its shell slowly and beguilingly, bestowing dried lavender, sage blossom and mint with a heady suggestion of truffles. The rich, dark red-fruited palate is framed by sandy, dusty tannins. Some heat rises on the mid-palate but is soaked up by plush layers, finishing on a salty liquorice note." Decanter

"The late-release 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Schiena d'Asino captivates with a display of sweet smoke and crushed stone giving way to dusty black raspberry and savory herbs. It’s silky-smooth and cool-toned, peppering the senses with mineral-tinged woodland berries and hints of spice. Grippy tannins build toward the close, saturating the palate beneath red inner florals. This tapers off with heroic structure but also the primary fruits to balance. The 2016 Vigna Schiena d’Aine is a dark stallion of a Brunello that's packed full of potential." Vinous

"The Mastrojanni 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Schiena d'Asino (with only 6,000 bottles made) is a joy. This classic 2016 vintage was extremely kind to Sangiovese, but not all producers were able to harness this level of varietal purity, elegance and sheer energy. This soulful wine is indeed best characterized by its inner electricity. The "donkey's back," or Schiena d'Asino, is a special vineyard site where grapes enjoy long sun hours and cool nighttime temperatures." Wine Advocate

"This is one of the 50 wines that have changed Italian wine culture." Gambero Rosso

Siepi 2020 impresses even at a young age with its volume, fruit and richness. It is made from equal parts Merlot and Sangiovese and both grapes bring their best qualities to the blend. The Sangiovese grape shows a distinct personality with localised notes of small berries and spices and also offers a wonderfully fresh acidity. Merlot plays a strong role in the background, adding softness, fullness and richness. Siepi is an intense, powerful wine that has a terrificarc of tension, ranging from its highly attractive extract sweetness to polished tannins in a fresh, savoury finish with an interesting salty note. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Siepi 2020 consists of half Sangiovese and half Merlot. The former is matured in large wooden barrels, the latter in 70% new barriques. On the nose, the Siepi has a very finely honed and clear Sangiovese fruit, with a purist face and excellent depth. In the mouth, too, the Merlot appears to have little aromatic presence. Rather slender and full of finesse on the tongue, the Siepi is clearly defined and very elegantly differentiated." Weinwisser

"Black cherry and blackberry, wrapped in a coat of toasted, resinous oak. Cedar and iron notes give the wine depth on the long finish. It opened up after an hour in the glass and showed its polish, but still needs time to absorb the oak." Wine Spectator

"Dark ruby colour with a drop of violet. On the nose, rich cherry fruit, blackberries, fine chocolate and leather, delicately characterised, exciting. Expressive and radiant on the palate, with compact, dark berry fruit and polished, creamy tannins, without denying its Tuscan roots, grippy and powerful on the finish." Falstaff

"Transparent carmine red colour with a pale rim. Penetrating, ripe aroma, probably due to the Merlot, but without too much sweetness. The palate shows the spice and vibrancy of the Sangiovese. But these two elements already seem to be beautifully combined with a slight hint of tea. Long. Already a really beautiful expression of the fruit of the Tuscan hills. Good balance between freshness and ripeness." Jancis Robinson

"The 2020 Siepi is stylish, elegant and highly polished. Dark blue fruits, lavender, new leather, cloves and mocha blend together effortlessly. The 2020 is characterised by a precision that is incredibly inviting. Nevertheless, the 2020 is still very young and does not fully express its potential. It simply needs time to develop, but all the elements are there." Vinous

"The nose balances dense, fiery aromas of grilled meat, pepper and gunpowder with lighter, friendlier notes of cherries and wild berries. The berries take a leading role on the palate, but the spicy smokiness lingers as an assertive undertone, leading into a hot finish. Tannins have grit without being rustic, emphasizing a saliva-inducing savoriness throughout." Wine Enthusiast

"Dried herbs and sweet spices on the nose, forest notes with blackberry fruit, concentrated and expressive. On the palate, the tannins glide gently over the tongue and give the sweet strawberry, raspberry and plum fruit time to develop in the mouth, while the acidity provides a pleasant mouthfeel. This wine is very lively and vibrant - it shouts loudly for its energy. It feels extremely good, with clear definition, finesse and balance. Such a marvellous fruit profile, the high-toned strawberry and cherry, bright and penetrating, but also round and generous with tobacco and wood nuances. The fine but present tannins are very present and give grip. All in all, an exceptionally beautiful wine. I love it. It offers an immediate and youthful pleasure, but it will continue to age well." Decanter

"Graphite and pencil come through, along with violets and blackberries. Also some tar and tarmac. Full-bodied, but creamy and crisp, with an agile liveliness that lasts for minutes. Fabulous length. Drinkable now, but it will continue to mature for decades." James Suckling

Giacomo Neri's new top Brunello was born with the purchase of a very special vineyard. True to the winery's philosophy of making wines only from the best terroirs around Montalcino, a small 7-hectare parcel with over 45 years of vines was purchased a few years ago. This was preceded by a friendship of over 40 years with the previous owners, with whom Giacomo's father Giovanni Neri planted the vines and nurtured them over the past decades.

And the 2018 vintage is now the premiere for a wine that radiates all the outstanding qualities of the source material and the winemaker's craft. Man and nature unite here in perfect precision and harmony. Its balance is exquisite. Powerful cherry and blackberry notes are followed by crushed minerals, liquorice, smoke and lightly scented cedar. The wine spreads evenly and powerfully across the palate, and its flavour intensity can be counted on for many long minutes. Giovanni Neri Brunello is wonderfully concentrated and rich, but never too heavy or dense. 2018 is the birth of a new Italian icon that will take us on an exciting journey in the years to come - patience and further bottle ageing will be princely rewarded here, we are sure! SUPERIORE.DE

"Casanova di Neri's latest Brunello comes from a 7 ha parcel acquired in 2017. The vineyard is located in the somewhat untamed area of Sesta, in the south-east of Montalcino, and has vines that are over 50 years old. The wine is extremely multi-faceted, exuding aromas of herbs and blood oranges. Velvety layers of fleshy persimmons and ample supple tannins are countered by a citrusy acidity. There's a crisp pomegranate as well as chocolaty depths of exotic carob. Lots of drive and vibration here." Decanter

"I have waited a long time for the first release of Giovanni Neri Brunello di Montalcino, and the 2018 does not disappoint. Here I find a beguiling blend of lavender, white pepper and crushed stone giving way to dried black cherries and foreign spices. The palate is washed by a smooth wave of ripe red berries, carried by lively acidity, while nuances of sour citrus and clove resonate. The tannins are crisp, almost chiselled, but with a primary concentration that lingers under a hint of purple flowers, tapering off with tremendous length and structure for long and balanced ageing. The Giovanni Neri comes from 50-year-old vines from a vineyard acquired in the south-east of Montalcino. This is a fabulous first bottling." Vinous

"This red is finely woven, with cherry and blackcurrant fruits shadowed by floral, mineral and black pepper aromas and flavours. Smooth and fluid, with excellent balance and lively acidity driving the fruity aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"Sparkling ruby-garnet with brightening rim. Very clear, ripe fruit, of blackberries, dark plums and black cherries, in the background slightly of molasses. Presents itself on the palate with lots of sweet fruit, very clear, opens with fine, slightly grippy tannin, polished, juicy and long." Falstaff

"Here is an exciting and important new addition to the Casanova di Neri portfolio. The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Giovanni Neri is shapely and enriched in an extremely pleasing way. The Neri family has perfected their approach to concentration and fruit weight over the many years they have been making excellent wines. This wine gives the impression of being full-bodied, but ultimately shows a very elegant side. Ripe cherry and blackberry are offset by oak spice, toast and white stones. The tannins are supple and sweet. 5,400 bottles of this first release were made." Wine Advocate

"Beautiful ripe fruit on the nose, with cranberries, plums, sour cherries, white truffle, red tea and white pepper. The tannins are very fine, creamy and expansive. Enveloping and generous, yet fresh. Wonderful length and depth. From a 7 hectare plot with 50 year old vines. Try this wine from 2025." James Suckling

"An impeccable interpretation, the result of excellent work both in the vineyard and in the cellar. Intense aromas of sour cherries and bay leaves on the nose, with salty and iodine notes on the finish. On the palate, it opens juicy and taut, then gains breadth and depth. Spicy tannins and a hint of hiel herbs characterise the long finish." Luca Gardini

Andrea Franchetti began positioning Palazzi as an equal red alongside his flagship Tenuta di Trinoro in the 1990s, with the aim of producing two exceptional wines that evoke the left and right banks of Bordeaux.

Just three words: power, intensity and concentration. With a very manageable production of 1,660 bottles, here comes a full-throttle Tuscan wine that exudes generous black fruit, spice and sweet tobacco all the time. There is also black cherry and plum, which give the wine soft contours and sweetness. On the palate, it is firm, well-structured and delights with a mouth-filling richness that is second to none. Take a good piece of red meat, marinate it in rosemary and olive oil before heading to the charcoal grill and then embark on this monumental adventure. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich ruby with a black core. Intense and inviting nose with notes of cocoa, blackberry, plum and fine spices. Dense and concentrated on the palate, very lush, grippy, savoury tannins, rich tobacco on the long final." Falstaff

"This vibrant red is pure and well-defined, with cherry, raspberry and floral aromas and flavors detailed by iron and wild thyme, supported from dense yet refined tannins. Excellent length." Wine Spectator

"The Tenuta di Trinoro 2019 Palazzi is a pure expression of Merlot with incoming fruit from the Palazzi vineyard that is characterized by dense clay soils. The wine's intensity is what stands out most, and that power is fueled by lovely nuances of black fruit, spice, sweet tobacco and baker's chocolate. Palazzi excels in terms of mouthfeel. The smooth richness and deep softness achieved here is only possible with this grape. Furthermore, it seems only possible in this spectacular, sun-drenched corner of undiscovered Tuscany known as Sarteano." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Palazzi is a classic Trinoro wine, with maybe a bit less bombastic intensity than some of the earlier wines, but all of the seamless elegance that has long made these reds so compelling. All the elements are wonderfully put together in the 2019, a wine that impresses with its mix of elegance, flamboyant intensity and sheer allure. I loved it." Vinous

Millecento Riserva from the dream vintage 2016 unfolds in the glass with hints of mocha, sweet cherry and plum, tobacco and a touch of fresh mint. There is a sense of opulence, but also of sophistication, as the texture of ripe red fruits with salty mineral notes glides across the palate, taking on a sweet herbal note towards the end. It finishes with a layer of fine tannins and acidic citrus, while tart wild berries and a hint of exotic spices linger. This wine still has several years of development ahead of it, but its refined blend of richness and elegance can already be experienced today. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red. In the nose of ripe cherries, a hint of marzipan, dried roses, then strawberries in the aftertaste, noble resinous tones round off the bouquet. On the palate with great fruit sweetness and hearty course, shows dancing play, builds up in many layers, independent and long." Falstaff

"Cecilia Leoneschi has been the winemaker at Castiglion del Bosco since Massimo Ferragamo purchased the estate in 2003. She has been instrumental in converting the estate to organic practices, with official certification achieved in 2016. Grilled nut, cedar and vanilla permeate the wild strawberry-soaked nose. The palate is concentrated and confidently extracted. Dry, grippy tannins clutch the mouth, followed closely by a wash of lip-smacking acidity. Savoury with compelling underbrush accents, there is plenty brewing here." Decanter

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Millecento is dark and animalistic with musky black currants, mocha, rosemary and underbrush lifted by a hint of camphor. This is decidedly salty and mineral in character, offsetting its silky textures with tart wild berries tinged with sour citrus, as grippy tannins mount toward the close. Balsam herbs, cocoa and hints of licorice linger incredibly long over a coating of fine-grained tannins through the heroically structured finale. There’s already so much going on here, but with cellaring, I expect even more." Vinous

"The Castiglion del Bosco 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Millecento 1100 is the aspirational wine in this portfolio. It aims high and showcases the carefully manicured approach of the winemaking team in both the vineyard and the winery. This is a grand vintage with firm structure, lots of fruit brightness, depth and freshness. You should expect balanced intensity at this price point, and you get it." Wine Advocate

"Blueberries and cherries with hints of cedar and spice, as well as plenty of mixed dried flowers, including violets. Some graphite and stone, too. Medium-to full-bodied with racy tannins and a long, long finish. It’s linear and complete, with lovely elegance and structure. Try after 2024." James Suckling

"This red reveals both power and finesse, with intense aromas of truffle, black currant, violet and iron leading off, backed by saturated dark berry fruit, floral, leather and tobacco flavors. Big, muscular tannins grab hold of the finish, with ample fruit in reserve. Best from 2026 through 2046." Wine Spectator

First bottled in 1967, Roncaglie (formerly Barbaresco Masseria) comes from a vineyard in Bricco di Neive and is essentially vinified and aged like a Barolo. Since the 2018 vintage, it now comes from a small parcel that used to belong to the Socré Barbaresco winery and is now deliberately released a year later to ensure greater harmony and balance. Floral and spicy notes merge with a core of rich, generous fruit in a generous Barbaresco based on pure resonance. Barbaresco Roncaglie is vinified and matured in the same way as Vietti's single-vineyard Barolos. This means long fermentation, six months in French oak and more than two years in barrique. This, together with the broad shoulders of Neive, results in a noble Nebbiolo with clear hints of Barolo and impressive depth. SUPERIORE.DE

"Just mid ruby. Firm, concentrated raspberry-fruit nose becoming more opulent and perfumed with aeration. Impressively balanced on the palate with wired, juicy raspberry and fine tannins. Full aromatic spread on the finish." Jancis Robinson

"The Vietti 2020 Barbaresco Roncaglie Masseria has bright rose, cherry, redcurrant and angel food cake with strawberries. There are mineral notes as well, and the fruit unfolds over the palate with gentle intensity. There is some oak spice, but it is very well integrated; and the wine shows good balance, especially where the tannins versus acidity is concerned." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 Barbaresco, from vines in Roncaglie, sizzles with tension. Bright, red-toned fruit, orange peel, mint, white pepper and crushed rocks are all beautifully delineated. In many vintages, the Roncaglie is quite showy. That is hardly the case in 2020, a vintage in which the wine is classically austere and in need of time. Super-classic." Vinous

"Very perfumed and pretty with sliced strawberries and citrus blossom. Plenty of forest berries, too. Medium to full body. Creamy tannins and a fresh finish. Fine texture and gorgeous." James Suckling

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

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

For Biondi Santis Riserva, the fruits of the oldest vines of Il Greppo (30 years and older) are used, the wine matures for three years in traditional oak barrels. On the nose, initially fine aromas of wild berries, blue flowers, eucalyptus and lightly grilled smoke. The intensity increases in small steps. With time, the wine is magnificent and focused, with a very direct and impressive presentation of its aromas. The wine leaves a lasting impression in the mouth, thanks to the textural tautness of its tannins and the refreshing crispness of the acidity, finally showing more power, volume and persistence than expected on the long final. Subtle and big! SUPERIORE.DE

"The classic appears with a year's delay compared to most other Riserve Montalcinos and is, as always, a fruit of the (also in this case excellent) vintage: fine garnet red; delicate bouquet of red forest fruits, violets, liquorice, also spice, which becomes increasingly complex with aeration; the attack finely chiselled with fine-grained tannin, then more and more character and yet above all much, much elegance." Vinum

"Fascinating dark spice, Assam tea, small red fruit, cranberry, subtle wood, light forest floor; tight tannin, bitter chocolate, has a long life ahead of it." Meiningers Sommelier

"Bright, elegant ruby red with a brightening rim. Finely marked nose of ripe raspberries and juicy plums, great cedar, reverberating with blood orange and delicate flint. Very juicy and balanced on the palate, with great tension, comes along in many layers, seems pure and precise, presses again on the palate in the finish, finesse-rich and endless." Falstaff

"Round and fruity, with an accent of white pepper against cherry, raspberry and floral aromas. Elegant and almost racy, with a firm, well-integrated structure and excellent length on the mineral finish." Wine Spectator

"Complex yet pure, subtle and refined nose that unfolds smoothly, with mossy red cherries, dried roses, chalk, tar and dried orange peel. Hints of clove and eucalyptus make it so distinctive. A powerful medium to full-bodied Brunello, yet seamless and bright, with a fine, transparent mid-palate and an understated, mineral austerity. An understated complexity that needs time to develop." James Suckling

"The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva seduces with a deep and seductive aroma of black raspberries complemented by sweet sage, dried roses and pipe tobacco. With further coaxing, it gains volume and lift, taking on hints of mint and camphor. On the palate, it presents with undeniable elegance, with velvety flavours of purple wild berries and sweet spices embraced by juicy acidity, while a fine coating of round tannins builds towards the finish. Although structured and incredibly long, the energy remains high as nuances of cherry pit finish with acidic citrus and a hint of cedar. It is amazing to experience such energy and purity in a young Biondi Santi Riserva. As beautiful as last year's Annata was, I was worried that the extended ageing of the Riserva would rob the wine of some of its fruit; instead, the complete opposite is true, as this wine contains the depth and complexity of the vintage's best wines. I can't wait to see how the 2015 matures over the next few decades." Vinous

"The Biondi-Santi 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is initially a restrained wine that does not immediately join the exaggerated richness and exuberance of the vintage. Give it time. I have written this review after several tastings over several days to better reflect the elegant evolution of the wine. Thoughtful and extremely nuanced in personality, with wild berries, underbrush, ferruginous earth and candied orange peel, this wine has everything you could hope for from its future evolution in bottle. It shows a beautiful ruby colour bordering on garnet and polished copper. A silky, medium-bodied palate is underlined by beautifully managed and silky tannins (this aspect of the mouthfeel is exceptional), bright freshness and long-lasting fruit drive. The alcohol level is slightly higher in this wine (14.5%), but the effect is still supple and soft." Wine Advocate

"I have always preferred balanced wines and wines with a special character. Wines that have a balanced relationship between body, smell, tannins and acidity. Old and also very old wines that have matured without losing their characteristic features. Wines that reflect the tradition of the wine-growing area and the local diversity". Franco Biondi Santi

Only 38 vintages of Brunello di Montalcino Riserva have been available since 1888 - 24 of which were produced under the direction of Franco Biondi Santi. 2012 Riserva is the last vintage supervised and dedicated to Franco himself. A milestone in the history of Biondi Santi. SUPERIORE.DE

"Warm, but not too hot summer, some precipitation at the end of August, September then cooling off; harvest on 10 September. Bright, powerful ruby-garnet, brightening edge. In the nose notes of fresh cherries, lots of pomegranate, in the background some saffron. Dense, powerful tannin characterizes the course, opens in many layers, salty and deep, has everything for a long life!" Falstaff

"A glorious nose to the wine with blackberries, plums, balsamic, mushrooms and bark. Floral. Some tile and terracotta undertones. Full-bodied with fine tannins and vivid, linear acidity running through the middle palate. Light toffee and smoke. Extremely long and lively. Traditional, yet very clean and beautiful. Drinkable now, but better after 2025." James Suckling

"Luminous garnet red. Perfumed nose of orange peel, cinnamon, sour red cherries, strawberries, talcum powder, and old fine leather, plus sneaky hints of slightly air-dried berries (not surprising, given how hot 2012 was, even taking into consideration that Biondi-Santi is one of the first estates to pick each year). Then juicy and dense with a silky mouthfeel to the flavors of red berries, blood orange and spices. Finishes long and silky now, but this specific Brunello Riserva was especially austere in its youth and so the estate decided to release it one year later than usual for sale. The wine carries an extra label "Dedicato a Franco Biondi Santi” (dedicated to Franco Biondi Santi) who passed away in 2013; CEO Giampiero Bertolino explained to me that everyone at the estate believed this wine was a real snapshot of Franco and the Brunellos he most enjoyed drinking, and so it was decided to dedicate it to him. Actually, there’s an air-dried quality to this wine that is absolutely enchanting, if in my opinion not altogether typical of Franco’s work. No matter, it’s one of the top three Brunello Riservas of the 2012 vintage." Vinous

"You will notice the dedication printed below the label of the wine label. It reads: "Dedicato a Franco Biondi Santi." Indeed, the Biondi-Santi 2012 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is the last vintage made by the towering father figure of Brunello whom most everyone referred to as the "gentleman of Montalcino." Il Dottore, as he was also respectfully addressed, died at age 91 in April 2013, and he was very active in the winery as this magnificent wine took shape. This Riserva is a true work of beauty. It is released one year later than usual. The wine reflects the natural heft and power of the 2012 vintage, and it also shows that distinctive open-knit and accessible personality that characterizes this warm and sunny growing season. Il Dottore's magic touch is revealed in the level of fine detail and precision that transcends vintage, grape and territory. That extreme focus is an achievement of this estate alone located in the celebrated Il Greppo property. This Brunello pours from the bottle with a magnificent garnet color, and it evolves in the glass with dark fruit, candied orange peel, spice, licorice, anise seed, cola and balsam herb. The aromas are magical and ethereal, albeit slightly ripe and soft as expected of this vintage." Wine Advocate

"2012 is considered a warm vintage, more dry than hot and with an advanced harvest on 10 September: quite early for a Sangiovese from higher vineyards in Montalcino. The age of the vines has helped to give the wine outstanding complexity. It shows the typical freshness of Biondi Santi with red currant, pomegranate and orris root aromas, becoming more austere on the palate with rhubarb radice flavour, firm acidity and firm yet ripe tannins. The extraction is great and the tight-knit integration between fruit and structural elements gives it the depth to age for decades." Decanter

"This is the final Riserva to benefit from the late Franco Biondi Santi's masterful hand. It boasts enticing scents of rose, underbrush, red berry, new leather and crushed mint. The chiseled palate features succulent Morello cherry, pomegranate, orange zest, star anise and a hint of tobacco, all framed in taut, polished tannins. Firm acidity lends youthful tension and keeps it impeccably balanced." Wine Enthusiast

Il Nocio, a Nobile di Montepulciano from a single vineyard, impressively demonstrates the true essence of the Sangiovese grape and has also been one of the region's quality leaders for years. Deep red, intense aromas of sour cherry, redcurrant, rose petals, violets and sweet spices. Dense, juicy and elegant on the palate, with fresh, pure fruit and smoothly polished tannins. Lively mineral and floral nuances in the very long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, baroque ruby red colour. Radiant nose of ripe forest fruit, cranberries, cherries, with some leather in the aftertaste and light spice. Opens up on the palate with elegant use of wood and polished red cranberry fruit, with beautiful juiciness, firm pressure on the finish, minimally broad on the finish, already accessible." Falstaff

"Packs ample flesh, wrapped around flavors of black cherry, blackberry, plum, cedar, earth and tobacco. Features flashes of juniper and wild rosemary that dapple its impressive length, while dusty tannins prevail on the lengthy finish." Wine Spectator

"Dark and earthy in the glass, the 2019 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Il Nocio smolders up with a blend of crushed ashen stones and savory herbs, underbrush and camphor. This is a round effort, with a mineral tinge up front and depths of red and black fruits that slowly saturate the palate toward the close. A balsamic twang punctuates the finish, combined with a web of fine-grained tannins as the 2019 tapers off long and structured, simply begging for the cellar. This is a classic in the making." Vinous

"Tarry berries, black mineral, dried orange rind and mussels on the nose. I like the chalky tannin structure and the pithiness here that makes you think of the build of a fine Serralunga d'Alba Barolo. Tight, bold and very austere, for sure, but so attractive and gastronomic at the same time. The tannins make you feel hungry. Give it time to unwind." James Suckling

"Three hectares just over 45 years old, flagship wine for Nobile di Montepulciano in the world. Nose of marasca cherries under spirits, mulberry, great balsamic cue and hints of undergrowth. The sip is vigorous, iodine-rich, juicy and at the same time complex, crisp, with great persistence." Luca Gardini

Barbaresco Bricco di Treiso presents itself with more power and depth than the normal Barbaresco. On the nose, dark red stone fruit, menthol, spices, leather and some cedar. On the palate, punchy even when young and with a great deal of muscularity, which, together with the harmoniously balanced tannin and acid structure, foreshadows a great, long life with a hopeful development. SUPERIORE.DE

"Combines the elegance promised by the provenance with sweet aromatics and abundant fruit, always underpinned by a certain sweetness with a hint of nougat, offering depth, salinity and fine acidity on the quite long finish. Shows what is in the 2018 vintage." Weinwisser

"Sparkling, intense ruby garnet, light rim. Shows notes of rose petals, raspberries, some tobacco and truffle on the nose. Pithy tannin, spreads out richly, lots of tobacco and leather, then slightly sandy tannin in the back." Falstaff

"Lustrous mid ruby. Like an amplified version of their straight Barbaresco. Firm nose which is perfumed at the same time. Cherry with hints of tobacco leaf, iron, orange skin and cumin. Increasingly minerally with aeration. Iron and orange and a hint again of cumin. Fine-grained, long tannins carrying the supple fruit. Can be approached now, but ideally should get more time in the bottle." Jancis Robinson

"A rich, well-defined style, this red evokes cherry, raspberry, iron, menthol and tobacco flavors. Broad tannins announce the finish, yet this remains balanced, intense and energetic, with a lingering aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Barbaresco Il Bricco is a worthy follow-up to the stellar 2017. Menthol, licorice, gravel, incense and a range of deeply-pitched spice notes open first, but it is the wine's overall depth that I find especially alluring. Racy and complex, yet so refined, the 2018 has a ton to offer. Best of all, it can be enjoyed with minimal cellaring. It's a gorgeous Barbaresco that captures the essence of Treiso." Vinous

"The 2018 Barbaresco Il Bricco shows ample depth and intensity with dark fruit, smoke, toasted spice and cured tobacco. This is a production of 6,393 numbered bottles. This vintage shows a mid-weight approach with rich fruit weight and polished tannins." Wine Advocate

"This is a very solid red for the vintage, with a medium to full body and extremely refined and focused tannins that run the length of the wine. Bitter-lemon, strawberry and spice flavors. Compact and long. Try after 2025." James Suckling

"The Barbaresco ‘selection’ of Pio Cesare, coming from 3 microzones located in the highest part of the vineyards of Cascina Il Bricco in Treiso. Great freshness on the nose, with notes of raspberry, blood orange, gardenia, then cloves. Palate of density and tension, savory tannins, finish of pleasant persistence." Luca Gardini

Energy and elegance are the hallmarks of the 2013 Brunello vintage. The top wines are stunning, with a vibrancy that is missing in many of the muscular, approachable and higher alcohol Brunellos from recent vintages. However, the 2013s will also require some patience to reach their maximum potential. In contrast to the extremely warm, dry years that have become the norm in Montalcino since the mid-1990s (the exceptions being 1998, 2002 and 2005), the 2013 vintage was a reminiscence of the past. It was a cool year with lots of rain in spring and the first half of summer.

So in 2013 in particular, it was especially important to find the right harvest. The 2013 Riserva presents itself multilayered, silky and translucent, but also with remarkable depth, power and the classic Biondi Santi austerity that will only reward the patient connoisseur. On the nose, which opens slowly with aeration, there are delicate hints of vibrant red cherry, underbrush and flint. Rich, dense and supple, with outstandingly precise red berry and mineral flavours accompanied by delicate notes of liquorice, chestnut and underbrush. The finish is very long and pure, with a seamless quality of classic Sangiovese flavours. Very promising and perfectly poised for the future! SUPERIORE.DE

"Shiny, intense ruby with a pronounced garnet tongue. Opens with slightly earthy notes, black truffle, also some anchovy, then lots of ripe plum, balsamic notes in the background. Very good volume in the attack, fills the palate immediately and full, lots of juicy cherry fruit, shows fine-meshed tannin in many layers, very good tension, spicy notes of coriander seeds in the final, salty." Falstaff

"Day one: Just mid ruby with orange tinges. Cool yet intense and complex on the nose. Contained yet deep. Minerally notes of cherry and blood orange. Compact transparent and with embryonic austerity. Reluctant to show it all, but the balance is sheer perfection. Finely powdered tannins and an elegant, medium palate weight. Furls up quickly on the finish into a dormant state. Needs at least half a decade more in bottle.
Day two: Just mid ruby with orange tinges. More brooding and introvert on the nose than yesterday, but no signs at all of oxidation. Great purity of fruit. Minerally peppery hints. Quite closed but exceedingly fine on the palate with finely chiselled tannins and succulent cherry and raspberry fruit. It's all a tad better integrated showing this wine needs a lot of bottle age. Transparent and long, but closes up on the finish.
Day three: Just mid ruby with broad orange rim. The nose is even more closed than the day before, but absolutely no signs of oxidation. Cool sour-cherry nose with a peppery tingle. Great depth, but brooding rather than expressive. Notes of iron. Racy, but stubborn palate firmly closed on the fruit and fine long powdery tannins. After having been open for over 72 hours it is still too young to approach." Jancis Robinson

"The 2013 vintage is the estate's latest Riserva to be released, the winery’s 40th Riserva since 1888 and the first vintage in over 40 years without the leadership of Franco Biondi-Santi. Due to rainstorms in September, the family delayed picking until the end of the month, making 2013 a relatively late harvest for Biondi-Santi. Classic sour red cherry notes are accented by orange, sandalwood and fennel. The palate charms with its savoury expression, finely textured sandy tannins and underlying minerality. Understated and refined, it flows gracefully but will nevertheless benefit from a couple of years in the cellar." Decanter

"Tense and elegant, this red evokes strawberry, cherry, floral, iron and rosemary aromas and flavors. Harmonious in its linear profile and smooth, yet with adequate tannins for a long life ahead. The fresh finish balances fruit and balsamic elements." Wine Spectator

"A fresh, linear 2013 with cherry, mushroom and cedar character. Lots of blue fruit as well. Medium-to full-bodied with firm, polished tannins and a creamy finish. Still very tight, this needs time to open if you want to drink it now, Try decanting two or three hours in advance." James Suckling

"The 2013 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva blossoms in the glass in a display of understated power mixed with purity. This unfolds more like a whisper than a shout, wafting up with a delicate bouquet of fresh violets, lavender and a dusting of shaved cedar and clove. With time, it deepens further, pulling you down to earth with aromas of wild strawberry and underbrush. The textures are like pure silk gently draped across the palate, but what they leave behind is a more engaging and classic mix of salty mineral tones and tart red berries, all lifted by juicy acidity. This then takes another turn, now toward the savory spectrum, as wild herbal and inner earth tones mix with a fine layer of sweet tannin to create a youthfully austere yet not overtly structured expression, leaving a nuance of tobacco to linger long. The 2013 presents an intriguing interpretation of the Biondi Santi Riserva, one that shrugs off the grippy, gruff, almost rustic tannins of the past in exchange for a more youthfully harmonious expression. Will it age? Maybe not for 50 years, but considering that this beauty was open and tasted over the course of three days, I'm convinced that it will be thrilling for the next few decades to come." Vinous

"Fragrant and loaded with finesse, this stunning red still shows the estate's hallmark of elegance and structure, opening with enticing scents of rose, iris, wild red berry and a whiff of new leather. The vibrant palate is dazzling and almost ethereal, delivering flavors of succulent red cherry, pomegranate, star anise and a hint of forest floor. Taut, polished tannins and bright acidity provide impeccable balance." Wine Enthusiast

"The Biondi-Santi 2013 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is a stunning wine from all points of view. Seamless integration and elegant complexity are what stand out, and it's worth dedicating a few extra lines to the aromatic depth that is put so beautifully on display as the wine slowly unfolds. The bouquet starts off with wild cherry, earth, wet ash, crème de cassis and pruny chocolate. With extra time, there are hints of dried tobacco leaf, sandalwood and mossy forest floor. These lead to a fine tail of dried herb, bay leaf and a touch of rusty nail. The Riserva comes in numbered bottles, and I opened number 04277. To the palate, the wine is streamlined and silky with smooth tannins and a well-managed 13.5% alcohol content. The oak presence is reduced to a minimum, offering mild hints of spice and the delicate sandalwood or dried fig aroma I described above. Fresh acidity is the glue that gives the wine buoyancy and staying power. At this young stage, this 2013 vintage could be considered a bit shy or slow to start, but this will play out to great advantage in the long term as the wine continues its bottle evolution." Wine Advocate

Complex and multi-layered classic from the old master of Nebbiolo from Piedmont. On the nose cedar, plum, red fruits, undergrowth and some rose scent. Balanced, spicy taste, the tannins firm and the finish precise and long. This muscular monument of a red wine definitely needs a few more years of bottle ageing, with a little patience it will transform into pure elegance! SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, brightening ruby garnet. Fragrant, finely marked nose, of raspberry, rose petals and ripe cherries, inviting. Polished, fine-meshed tannin characterises the wine on the palate, like a fine robe, salty, lots of ripe cherry, long final." Falstaff

"The 2019 Barbaresco from Gaja is magnificent. Bright and edgy, with fabulous balance, the 2019 captures all the best this difficult vintage had to offer. Gaja did not bottle any other Barbaresco crus, instead opting to use the best lots for this bottling. This decision has paid off in a 2019 that is bursting with excitement. The aromas alone are captivating. Bright acids add vibrancy to a core of beautifully pronounced Nebbiolo fruit." Vinous

"Aromas of iron, minerals, dark chocolate, wild strawberries, raw walnuts, orange peel and rotten roses. Medium to full-bodied, with supple and very chalky tannins. Lots of fruit on the palate with a fine, fresh and mineral finish. Pure and linear." James Suckling

"A complex red that reveals multi-dimensional aromas and flavours of rose, cherry, liquorice, minerals and spices. This is fused with a lively structure that gives a taut, almost racy profile at the moment. The wine combines power and grace and finishes on a long, floral and spicy aftertaste. Best from 2026 to 2045." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Barbaresco is striking and beautiful as a result, with tremendous depth and clarity. It is a generous wine with ample structure, plenty of lively acidity, sweet tannins and a bright core of primary fruit." Wine Advocate

Only a few thousand bottles of this private collection exist. Impressive, dynamic and radiant. Aromas of dark berries, cloves, menthol, tar, liquorice, herbs and grilled meat, the wood tones very restrained. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Isole e Olena 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Collezione Privata boasts luscious dark concentration with black fruit, grilled herb, crushed stone and sweet crème de cassis. Those bold flavors are followed by a 15% alcohol content that is gracefully integrated here. This is another long-term proposition for your cellar." Wine Advocate

"The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Collezione Privata is another stellar wine in this range from Isole e Olena and Paolo De Marchi. Still pretty tightly wound, the 2018 is going to need at least a few years to fully unwind. Dark blue/purplish fruit, lavender, spice, mocha and espresso are some of the many aromas and flavors that start to open with a bit of aeration. The Isole Cabernet has a brilliant track record of aging. I expect the 2018 will one day take its place among the very finest editions." Vinous

"Lots of blackcurrants and currant bush with some graphite and black ink on the nose. Full-bodied with a chewy and polished tannin backbone and lots of blue fruit and stones in the finish. Sandalwood and violets, too. Great structure at the end. Give this time to soften. Try after 2025, but will age for a long time." James Suckling

When you hear the story of the effort that went into the Colonia vineyard, you have to wonder if the fine people of Fèlsina are absolutely crazy. It took them two years to remove the imposing rock that had forced previous generations of the Poggiali family to practically abandon this noble location. But it is thanks to the ambitious Giovanni Poggiali that this spectacular vineyard (Vigneto Colonia) has become what it is today. It has reddish-brown soils, is rich in magnesium and iron and is therefore very different from all other Fèlsina vineyards.

Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colonia is a wine of enormous beauty and depth. Dark ruby in the glass, it smells expressively mineral and pure, with aromas of dark cherry and blackcurrant. Mineral and graphite flavours and the simply terrific focus on the Sangiovese grape make it an incomparable masterpiece. On the palate, it is extremely balanced and elegant with perfectly integrated wood - it is immediately clear that this is another top wine from the estate that is more than a match for Fontalloro. Those who are able to taste it will be lucky, as there are only 3,000 bottles per vintage. SUPERIORE.DE

"Mid ruby with the beginning of orange tinges. Rusty nail, sweet raspberry and just a suggestion of oak. Supple, elegant raspberry fruit with a pinch of oak on the palate and bags of earthy-tasting, fine tannins. Very long and precise and gaining in depth on the finish." Jancis Robinson

"Floral aromas, on the palate the wine shows juicy red fruit with fresh zesty acidity. The tannins are balanced giving structure and there's an understated note of oak. Elegant." Decanter

"Intense nose of wild blueberries, dried cherries, mint, roasted espresso and toffee. It’s medium-to full-bodied with a firm tannin frame. Structured and polished. Dense, toasty and compact for now." James Suckling

"The 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colonia is a bit marked by oak today, but behind that lies a wine of striking purity, depth and freshness. Dark red-fleshed fruit, crushed rocks, white pepper, spice and blood orange are some of the notes that meld together. There's a beautiful, layered wine waiting to emerge here." Vinous

From deep moraine soil with a high salt and lime content, Vigna Au first opens with flint and walnut and then beguiles with a complex bouquet of yellow, exotic fruits. Intense, juicy, with just the right amount of acidity, it has a maturation potential of at least 15 years. Just 2,000 bottles of this exceptional Chardonnay are bottled each year. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, elegant light gold colour. Discreet hazelnuts and pine nuts on the nose, then cold smoke, subtle pineapple and banana, roasted hazelnuts in the background. Juicy and with very good tension, shows lots of crisp fruit, well-integrated acidity, very long finish, fun." Falstaff

"The Vigna Au lies at a relatively low altitude of 300 metres above sea level in Kurtatsch-Margreid. Great aromas, with very clear citrus fruit and flavours of yellow fruit, paired with fine oak spice. Also mineral notes reminiscent of graphite and salt. Extremely juicy, clear and animating on the palate. Pithy final." Vinum

"The 2020 Chardonnay Riserva Vigna AU combines rich notes of almond custard and candy spice with an invigorating blend of crushed green apples and lime zest. Luxuriously round and supple, the 2020 flows across the palate with an abundance of mineral fruit accompanied by sour citrus. Lightly structured yet full of savoury tension, the 2020 finishes long with a saline tension that lingers." Vinous

"Roasted flavours, smoked almonds, nectarines and lemon meringue on the nose, followed by a full, toasty and firm body. Lots of wood, but also ripe fruit. Long finish." James Suckling

"Inviting and elegant nose of peach and white pepper, nectarine on the palate, fresh minerality and lively acidity." Decanter

The wine icon, rare every year and very highly rated, presents itself in a shiny, rich ruby. On the nose, crisp berry fruit, ripe dark cherries, sweet plums and delicate notes of cinnamon. In the mouth it is full-bodied and firm, very juicy, unfolds a finely woven tannin and glides in a wide arc into a powerful, long final. A great wine full of tension and elegance. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dense, sweet and with great seductiveness, it smells out of the glass with lots of chocolate and nutty aromas. Fine-grained and clearly structured on the palate, it has excellent breed with playful acidity, which in turn gives it depth and length. Impressively typical I Sodi, which has never lost its traditional character. Even though it was one of the more modern top wines from Tuscany in the 90s because of its ageing in barriques, today it has to be classified rather with the classics." Weinwisser

"Rich, sparkling ruby with a slightly pale rim. Opens clear and deep on the nose, with plums and blackberries, discreet smoky notes, some cardamom. Firm and sturdy on the palate, shows lots of tightly woven tannin, builds up firm pressure, lots of plum, long final." Falstaff

"This is marked by new oak initially, then the plum and cherry flavors shine through. Vibrant, with leather and earth elements joining in before the oak spice and tannins frame the finish. Fresh and complex, with a lot going on—just needs time." Wine Spectator

"Bright and vibrant, the trademark lively and vibrant acidity at the fore straight away giving life and lift to the caramelised cherries, pomegranates and strawberry fruit. The wood is a little apparent, giving the frame a spiced edge that sticks out a little and pulls the fruit forwardness back a bit. Clearly powerful, there is a richness and ripeness to the fruit with massy tannins. Nuanced and generous with precision and focus from beginning to the end." Decanter

"This celebrated Tuscan red is a blend of mostly Sangiovese with a smaller part of Malvasia Nera. The Castellare di Castellina 2018 I Sodi di S. Niccolò shows the elegance and grace of these native grapes with aromas of red and purple fruit, cherry, wild rose and gardening soil. However, there is also a strong oak element that adds spice and toast to the bouquet and textural weight to the wine's generous build." Wine Advocate

"A vibrant, balanced and fresh red with raspberries, pomegranates, cherry stones and spice box on the nose. Sleek, tight tannins. Focused, with a very fine structure and wound-up energy." James Suckling

"The 2018 I Sodi di San Niccolò is the most elegant Sodi I have ever tasted, and I have tasted them all. Sodi can be quite the bruiser in its youth, as the tannins are often imposing, but the 2018 is impressive because there is more than enough fruit to balance things out. Dark cherry, plum, lavender, spice and gravel build in a Sodi endowed with mind-blowing purity and exceptional finesse. Superb!" Vinous

Messorio has been undisputedly one of Italy's best and rarest Merlots since the mid-1990s. Soft, rich, elegant, refined and never overdone. On the nose, ripe fruit, coffee, graphite and French oak. Structured and balanced, Messorio fascinates the international wine world every year with a clarity and length that is unparalleled. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, intense ruby with violet glints. Opens with notes of forest floor, cedar wood and pine needles, then blueberry and blackberry, inviting. Very juicy, lots of dark fruit, opens with fine-meshed, very well-placed tannin, shows good drinking flow, juicy, very long finish." Falstaff

"Bright cassis, straw and graphite on the nose - all are the more overt characters typical of Bolgheri's solar Merlot. The concentrated fruit is dense and fleshy on the palate, with an oaky, slightly chalky and austere character as well as velvety tannins and a graceful finish of cedar. Assertive yet integrated acidity balances the alcohol. Great ageing potential." Decanter

"Le Macchiole is always distinguished by its deadly balance, and the Messorio is no exception. Cherries, cranberries, wild herbs and earth on the nose continue on the palate before pepper, charred meat and a juicy spiciness emerge on the finish. Tannins that unwind with ease and a palpable spiciness keep things exciting; a pleasure in the moment, but seeing what happens next will be worth the wait." Wine Enthusiast

"Le Macchiole's great challenge on pure Merlot, obtained with a prophetic 'subtraction' work. Black raspberry, juniper and liquorice on the nose, with small touches of nutmeg, on the palate tense-dense and juicy-savoury, with a fruity and undergrowth return." Luca Gardini

"Blackberry, oyster shell, iodine and black olive. Also some caraway and thyme. Full-bodied with a very tight palate of firm tannins and fresh, mineral blue fruits. Needs time to open up and show its true potential. Try it after 2025." James Suckling

"At this stage it is strongly marked by new oak, with vanilla and toasted spices wrapped around a core of plum, black cherry, earth and cedar. Graceful and balanced, it firms up on the lingering finish. This is all about purity of fruit, finesse and length. Decant it now or let it age for 2-3 years." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Messorio combines the natural opulence of Merlot on the Tuscan coast with a finesse I have never seen here before. It has a lot of depth and resonance, but none of the heaviness that has been so en vogue for many years. Dark cherry, plum, spice, mocha and floral notes lead into a racy, exotic finish." Vinous

"The stunning Le Macchiole 2019 Messorio is a pure Merlot from a special 2.5 hectare parcel with a classic blend of Bolgheri soils with clay, silt, sandstone and limestone. The wine ferments in concrete and is aged in new barriques for 18 months. This beautiful wine exudes scents of cherries, blue flowers, iris roots, gravel and slate. Balanced oak tones add power and texture to the full-bodied finish." Wine Advocate

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 the profound Le Vigne come from Baudana in Serralunga d'Alba (for the power), Villero in Castiglione Falletto (for the precision), Vignane in Barolo (for the purity of the flavours) and Merli in Novello (for the fullness of the fruit). It opens wide with aromas of fresh red fruit and a delicate spicy note. Very intense on the palate, remarkably elegant, fine-grained tannins, extremely clear, structured and long. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, intense ruby-garnet colour. Intense nose with notes of plum and wild raspberry, followed by some liquorice and cloves. Salty and juicy on the palate, shows fine cherry fruit at the front, then opens up with grippy tannins, good pressure on the final." Falstaff

"The Barolo Le Vigne 2020 is characterised by its brilliant aromatic intensity and great depth. Crushed rose petals, mint, blood orange, spices, lavender and pomegranate blend together. Le Vigne has slightly more aromatic vibrancy and vigour than the Aleste, but shares its sibling's sense of openness." Vinous

"Black cherry, raspberry and plum are wrapped in a veil of toasted oak in this red wine. Ripe and dense, yet with a sense of elegance, this wine lingers with fine balance and freshness on the finish, which is characterised by iron and eucalyptus." Wine Spectator

"The 2020 Barolo Le Vigne has an open texture with sun-drenched flavours. You get ripe fruit with black cherries, blackcurrants, forest floor and wild mushrooms. With time in the glass, the wine reveals floral definition, grilled tarragon herb and a heavier note of wheat pastry." Wine Advocate

"The flavours of blackberry, spice and tar are enticing and lead to a full but firm body that shows density and depth. The tannins are very well integrated and feel fused with the wine. Slightly bitter orange and mineral character on the finish. Complex and curated." James Suckling

"The wine is a bold expression of dark, macerated cherries, earthy undertones with the nuanced complexity of oolong tea and a medley of spices. The palate is characterised by a dark, smoky character dusted with spice, creating a big and commanding presence in the glass that shows the depth and power of the wine but never goes too far, maintaining an elegant line in the glass." Wine Enthusiast