Vinum

Mazzei's top wine Siepi is not only an outstanding Tuscan wine every year, but also a 6-hectare vineyard in the middle of dense oak forests with an ideal altitude and a unique climate. The sunshine is optimal throughout the day and a constant breeze from the west prevents excessive heat and creates a mild, Mediterranean climate. The oak forests also provide an ideal protective barrier against extreme weather conditions. Rocky soils of marl, limestone and clay from the Pliocene period ensure a special balance of elements in this geological complex.

Siepi's greatest strength every year is its pronounced sense of integration and harmony, and this excellent 2021 vintage is no exception. The bouquet is fresh and lively with lots of wild cherry, spices, wild rose, lilac and lavender. On the palate, it delights with soft fruit and delicate spice and shows an increasingly fluid personality in the glass, gradually revealing a beautiful sequence of background flavours. The 2021 edition is already very elegant, even polished, but Siepi connoisseurs know that it will need at least five more years of careful bottle ageing before this monumental red begins to show its true greatness. SUPERIORE.DE

"Massive, viscous colour. The Siepi 2021 has a youthful aroma of fine, fresh wood, offensive and brash, with fleshy intensity and limited depth. Its actual flavour has not yet really come through. It is rich and melting, round and lush, sweet and wood-accentuated in the mouth. It is less dense in its core flavours and lives more from its melting, lively flow, which asserts itself clearly and straightforwardly." Weinwisser

"A formidable wine with an appealing bouquet of black cherry and vanilla flavours; powerful in the mouth with a lot of density and fullness, but also very nice, tightly woven tannins and invigorating acidity, with an incredibly long finish." Vinum

"Rich, deep dark ruby violet colour. Compact and dense nose, showing notes of redcurrant, blackberry, ripe cherry, fresh herbal notes in the background. Lots of polished, very well-integrated tannins on the palate, smooth and long finish, juicy and fine melting." Falstaff

"The 2021 Siepi opens with sweet fruit flavours of cooked cherry, blackberry jam, cinnamon and nutmeg. This full-bodied wine is supple and very smooth in the mouthfeel, and its flavour profile is rich and all-encompassing. This wine is balanced and seamless, and the 2021 vintage is certainly one of the best editions of Siepi we've seen to date." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 Siepi is impressive. Blue/purple fruit, lavender, spice, menthol and mocha are beautifully balanced. This lush, juicy blend of Sangiovese and Merlot is, as so often, a real charmer. The 2021 is exceptionally elegant and polished, certainly one of the best editions of recent times. Nevertheless, I believe that the Siepi would benefit from longer ageing in wood or in glass, as it is coming to market too early for a wine of its size and potential." Vinous

"Intense blackcurrant on the nose, baked and ripe, so expressive and inviting with little hints of liquorice and tar. Supple, generous, juicy and bright, this 50/50 Sangiovese Merlot is so well crafted and harmonious - rich, broad and full in the mouth, it runs with life and energy and such underlying vigour. You can feel the intensity and sculpting that is evident here. This wine is no wallflower, but it's so neat and beautifully presented. I love the tannins, massive but controlled and a perfect counterpart to the fresh and ripe red and black fruits with black pepper, tar, tobacco and bitter orange as well as soft floral notes. The brightness is a great match for the depth and complexity delivered by a nuanced glass of wine that has so much to say. I love the tannins and the sense of direction and confidence. It's still in its brooding, flashy, youthful phase with plenty of warmth and spice, but it's a beauty." Decanter

"An opulent yet exciting young red wine with the character of blackberries, violets and black olive skin. Full-bodied. But with so much energy and focus. Lasts for minutes. Best opened after 2028." James Suckling

Magari is a dark, rich and voluptuous wine that faithfully reflects the signature of Gaja in Bolgheri. On the palate, plump and supple fruit, dark berries and spices mingle with seamless intensity. The wine offers firm grip and long-lasting power on the finish. There is nothing not to love here. SUPERIORE.DE

"Seductive, dark berry aromas, also notes of raspberries and herbs; juicy in the mouth, lively acidity, flavours of red berries, leather and tobacco in the final." Vinum

"Intense, rich ruby red colour. Great precision on the nose, cranberries, ripe raspberries, a fine hint of black bread crust, precious wood, light fumé. Polished on the palate, with compact tannins and juicy fruit, very precise, always comes back juicy, slightly alcoholic finish with good length." Falstaff

"The 2022 Magari is plump, juicy and very easy to like. Soft, silky contours wrap around a core of red-toned fruit, cedar, sweet spice and flowers. This easygoing Maremma red is best enjoyed over the next few years. I find it a bit light, especially in the mid-palate, but its balance is impeccable." Vinous

"Supple in texture and with blackcurrant and black cherry fruit, this red is polished and approachable. Light herbal, graphite and tobacco accents add detail as this wine cruises to a firm finish." Wine Spectator

"The aromas of redcurrants, cherries and olive leaves merge into a medium body with very fine, flattering tannins and a long, juicy finish. Slightly crisp and chewy. Very well made and already delicious now, but even better in a few years." James Suckling

Chiara's Barolo from the Mosconi single vineyard of the same name is powerful, muscular and full of opulence. Rich, bright ruby red colour. Rich aromas of eucalyptus, wild rosemary, plum and black cherry. Deep and powerful on the palate with beautiful spicy accents, dense tannins and a very juicy structure. For us, this Barolo belongs in the top class of the appellation, it always carries its great weight with maximum elegance and is highly authentic, completely in the style of Chiara Boschis, who has once again delivered something really great here. Please leave it in the cellar for a few more years! SUPERIORE.DE

"Stately reception on notes of pomegranate and undergrowth, spiced up with aromas of dried flowers; the tannins are full of character and well integrated, the acidity accentuated: A well-fitting wine with finesse and style." Vinum

"Rich ruby colour with a slight garnet shimmer. Opens with notes of tea, plums and raspberries, some rosewood and incense. Grippy, well-placed tannins on the palate, emphasised earthy notes, firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"Though clearly focused on its cherry, raspberry and plum fruit flavors, this red also boasts savory elements of eucalyptus and woodsy underbrush. Well-endowed, with dense, dusty tannins that shape the compact finish." Wine Spectator

"Barolo Mosconi 2020 is a powerful, flavoursome wine. Black cherry, gravel, incense, menthol and liquorice all build in this virile, taut Monforte Barolo. The 2020 has a lot to offer, it's big and powerful. Spicy herbs, earthy notes and powerful minerals permeate the powerful finish. Outstanding." Vinous

"Mosconi 2020 has something of the special ripeness of the vintage with cherry cream syrup, grenadine, watermelon sweets and a drop of pastis. The wine finishes powerfully with a balanced combination of fruit and fine oak tannins. It is very lively on the palate and the fruit is very vibrant at this young stage." Wine Advocate

"Flavours of dried oysters and intriguing wet stones with a hint of lovely peppercorn funk to the cherries, hibiscus and plums. Broad and compact on the palate with a full body and plump morello cherries in the centre. Quite extensive and long, but transparent. Even more powerful than her exciting Cannubi from this vintage." James Suckling

"A Barolo of great olfactory and flavour significance. Notes of blackcurrant, a hint of undergrowth, white pepper and citrus notes, nuances of clementine. The mouthfeel is savoury, with a spicy return and floral notes." Luca Gardini

Poggio di Sotto's Brunello 2019 is a true masterpiece. Bright, sparkling garnet red in colour. The multi-layered, seductive bouquet alternates cherry, autumnal spice, exotic flowers, candied orange peel with undergrowth, white smoke and wild small berries. Masterfully interwoven on the palate, with a softness and purity that, together with notes of sweet cherries and raspberries, delivers a firework of impressions. Add to this grippy tannins and an agile acidity and you have a prime example of Montalcino. It is already classic and modern at the same time, and we can only eagerly await its further development! SUPERIORE.DE

"Needs a little aeration, then beguiles with aromas of wild berries, flowers and spices, well cushioned in the mouth by tightly woven tannins and invigorating acidity, full of elegance on the final. A classic." Vinum

"Oh my, that's another seductive, elegant fragrance: ripe heart cherries and raspberries, engaging, distinctive floral notes reminiscent of violets and lavender, backed by earthy herbal spice with juicy liquorice and a touch of blood orange. Wow, this is complex. Elegant, fine-meshed style on the palate, great tension from transparent, precise fruit and balsamic, melting freshness. Once again one of the best. Bravo!" Weinwisser

"Bright ruby garnet colour. Rich cherry fruit on the nose, a hint of rosemary, plus fine hints of graphite and blood orange. Great juiciness on the palate, lots of red berry fruit, beautiful salinity, grippy tannins in many layers, builds beautifully, classic, still very young." Falstaff

"Medium ruby red colour. Very restrained nose with just a hint of minerals. Elegant palate that is still firmly closed, yet supple and finely balanced with grainy but fine tannins. Very long, concentrated and exciting." Jancis Robinson

"This elegant red wine shows a combination of strawberry, cherry, rose and wild herb flavours, a firm underlying structure and excellent harmony in a stylish profile. Just a little shy on the chalky finish." Wine Spectator

"Sweet cherry and floral aromas with some orange peel and lilac character. Medium body with beautiful depth and concentration. Ripe, fine tannins and an attractive finish. Subtle richness and class. Give this wine three or four years to develop." James Suckling

"Dusty roses, worn leather, dried strawberries and dry earth form a classic bouquet when the dynamic 2019 Brunello di Montalcino blossoms in the glass. It is feminine, deep and structured, with ripe plums and black cherries supported by lively acidity. Purple flowers and hints of liquorice emerge towards the end. The 2019 leaves a salty minerality intermingled with fine-grained tannins and spice, while finishing with incredible length and yet so fresh. This wine is incredibly youthful and introverted today, but it has enormous potential. I expect the 2019 to gain weight and blossom over the next five to ten years. Glorious." Vinous

"Despite heavy rain, there was very little disease in 2019 and the hot summer brought the grapes to full ripeness. The subdued cherry aromas reflect the wine's youth, though they became more expressive with aeration. The palate is rich but sleek in texture, with polished tannins and fine acidic lift. The texture is grainy without being tough, and there's so much energy and grip here that the wine clearly has great ageing potential. Very long, with a lightly peppery finish. A majestic end to the decade." Decanter

"The jewel of Collemassari Wine Estates in an impeccable version of Brunello. On the nose, notes of redcurrant jam, a hint of liquorice, myrtle and a touch of wild sage. Crisp, dense mouthfeel, saline, iodised tannins, closing with a return of small fruit notes and myrtle." Luca Gardini

"Although this wine started out very shy, the Poggio di Sotto 2019 Brunello di Montalcino finally hits all the high notes of Sangiovese. It is a wine with enormous inner tension, displaying a powerful, lifted personality with aromas of cherries and blackberries. There are also flavours of roasted cherries, glazed strawberry cake with gelatine, undergrowth, blue flowers, forget-me-nots, balsam herbs, mint and liquorice. A few hours later, the wine has developed into a classic beauty with slender lines, firm structure and sparkling, brilliant acidity. The oak is so well integrated that you can't see it, the tannins are elegant and fine, and the acidity is the proverbial cherry on top." Wine Advocate

Brunello di Montalcino Gli Angeli Riserva 2018 is stunningly beautiful. Its seductive presentation beguiles with rich dark fruits, sweet mint, spice and a grounding hint of floral undergrowth. Its textures are seamless, gliding over a core of fresh, bright acids that flank its black cherry and redcurrant flavours. Notes of liquorice, tobacco and sweet herbs linger long over a gentle layer of fine tannin. It has a juiciness, finesse and structure that will give it a long life. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dense, serious, finely characterised bouquet. Juicy palate, intense, polished tannins, supple, very stylish, coherent Riserva, polished, cherry, floral notes." Weinwisser

"Needs a little time to get going, then notes of cherry blossom and leather beguile; elegant structure with perfectly integrated acidity, tightly woven tannins, multi-layered finish with flavours of dried flowers, berries and truffles." Vinum

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Gli Angeli is dark and rich with a bouquet of plum sauce, Baker's chocolate and sweet sage. It feels seamlessly silky, with a plush wave of ripe red and darker black fruits swirling over a core of savoury minerals and exotic spices. A hint of spiced orange adds a pleasant tension, while a bitter bite of tannins lingers." Vinous

"The La Gerla 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva gli Angeli shows warm vintage characteristics with baked fruit and plums. These impressions of ripe fruit blend well with the medium-bodied texture of the wine. Only 3,775 bottles were produced." Wine Advocate

"This red is rich and generous for the vintage, offering flavours of cherry, plum and rose with light accents of earth and dusty herbs. Light tannins and lively acidity support it, and it finishes gracefully." Wine Spectator

"Subtle aromas of red cherries, pepper, leather and cocoa powder wrapped in fresh violets. Firm attack with extracted, chalky tannins infused with cherries, full body and refreshing acidity. Spicy, fruity finish." James Suckling

Troy is no ordinary Chardonnay. Rather, it is the archetype of a Chardonnay, as Wolfgang Klotz, managing director of what is probably the most successful winegrowers' cooperative in South Tyrol, sees it. The grapes come from two selected vineyards in Söll, near Tramin. The climate there is not only Mediterranean, but the vegetation is also characterised by rather cold downdraughts at night. Both factors guarantee optimal development of the plants and fruit. The berries are hand-picked one by one, so it is clear to any wine connoisseur that this is an absolutely prestigious project for the co-operative. It is therefore not surprising that only 3,000 bottles of this grape variety are sold in selected specialist shops and top restaurants.

Intense straw to golden yellow in colour. On the nose, tropical fruit, a hint of camomile and mint, then fine roasted notes and a subtle nutty flavour. On the palate, you can almost taste the proximity of the mountains, its clarity, freshness and intensity: exotic notes of ripe yellow fruit, then some nutty flavours and again a beguiling liveliness and minerality that ends in an equally long final. Chardonnay can be like this, chapeau! SUPERIORE.DE

"A great classic with alpine character that comes from the oldest Chardonnay vines in the highest parcels of the Tramin winery. The interplay of warmth and coolness is already evident on the nose, with fresh pomaceous fruit, citrus and orange zest with a subtle smoky undercurrent. Grippy, relief-like texture on the palate, very fine grip, has depth, cool spice and stony-salty notes, focussed and long." Weinwisser

"Bright, sparkling light gold colour. The nose is full of banana, Kaiser Alexander pear, pineapple candy, after a little time a slight hint of almond flakes, cold butter and blood orange. Precise, rich on the palate, with fine phenolic flavours and a salty undertone, lingers in many layers, long." Falstaff

"Very promisingly reductive on the nose. Mineral notes reminiscent of chalk and graphite, delicate spice and fresh citrus fruit. Clear and pithy on the palate, with plenty of flavour. Animating!" Vinum

"Ripe peaches and mangoes with apple crumble, honeysuckle and cream. Full-bodied with a sophisticated texture. Creamy and delicate with fresh floral undertones and a hint of orange toffee on the finish." James Suckling

"An aromatic strand of graphite, lime blossom and spice winds its way through the glazed apple and apricot flavours of this lean, vibrant white wine, which shows a kind of audacious energy alongside a lovely balance. The fruit profile combines with notes of macadamia nuts, clementines, vanilla and stones that unfold on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"The Chardonnay Riserva Troy matured in barriques reveals buttery oak notes with French almond biscuits and patisserie. Sweet dried apricots continue on the palate. Pleasingly, it has good lift and a dolomitic character. Crumbled quartz and other minerals are reminiscent of picturesque mountains and glaciers. Serve this wine well chilled. Its fruity sweetness turns into a savoury note over time." Wine Advocate

"Intense tropical melon, mango and papaya with pretty white flowers. Fleshy and lush with a creamy texture, enriching acidity and a long, mineral finish." Decanter

Camarcanda is a rich Bolgheri Rosso Superiore with a dark bouquet of black fruit, espresso, chocolate, liquorice and tar. The palate is extremely full-bodied, with outstanding depth, dense structure and a firm body. Opulent and long, this wine already shows a wide range of personality. SUPERIORE.DE

"Warm-scented aromas of black cherries, herbs, spiced up with liquorice and smoke; has a lot of pressure, but also a lot of polish, the tightly woven, grippy tannins and the supporting acidity guarantee a long life, finishes long on opulent fruit flavours." Vinum

"Elegant, bright ruby red colour. Intense nose with notes of cassis and blackberry, clear and concise, fine herbal spice in the background. On the palate with savoury juiciness and dark berry fruit, opens with grippy tannins in many layers, pithy, with lots of juicy fruit, firm pressure and notes of graphite on the final." Falstaff

"The 2021 is an impressive effort with fragrant aromas of dried cherries, sous bois and minty black fruits that continue on the palate with intensity and vibrancy. Hints of balsamic herbs, raspberries and floral notes are also evident. It is powerful and minty-fresh and a real eye-catcher." Decanter

"A tasty and juicy young red wine with flavours of currants, raspberries and boysenberries that develop into a medium to full body with creamy and polished tannins and a beautiful finish. It is fresh and concentrated." James Suckling

"The Ca' Marcanda 2021 Bolgheri Rosso Camarcanda is made with Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc in a supporting role. This is a bold and beautifully concentrated wine with a brilliant character that is best described as Rubenesque. It exhibits a supple texture and deep richness supported by sweet fruit and raspberry flavours. The ripe, well-structured tannins give way to a sparkling freshness that gives it energy and life." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 Camarcanda is a fabulous wine from the Gaja family, the best they have ever made from their estate in Bolgheri. Silky, aromatic and wonderfully pure, the 2021 Camarcanda is a superb, contemporary expression of Bolgheri with plenty of coastal sunshine and warmth, but not overdone. Silky tannins frame the exceptionally polished, nuanced finish. The 2021 is so seductive." Vinous

"Pure and elegant, with saturated flavours of violets, blackcurrants, blackberries, liquorice and iron. This wine is so beautifully balanced that even at this young stage it feels almost seamless, offering a lean profile and an endless aftertaste that mirrors the fruit. The oak is very well integrated, with polished tannins." Wine Spectator

Rose petals, mint, cinnamon, dark sweet cherries and smoke lift from the glass in a translucent, wiry Brunello that builds on energy, power and opulence. Here, length and fruit are in the foreground and, together with a clearly defined tannin structure, Leopoldo Franceschi's team has produced a wine here in a very classic vintage that will really reveal itself over the next few years. As always, it is one of our favourites, and its still outstanding value is also great fun! SUPERIORE.DE

"Wide-ranging bouquet with lots of cedar, ripe red and dark fruits, wild strawberries, cassis and red currants. Behind this, the wood barrel ageing also shows with fine cedar, cloves and dark spices as well as herbs. Rich, almost meaty and dense palate, not quite as dense as 2016, but immensely present freshness and dynamism, also the tannin network seems a bit leaner than usual and of best quality. Very persistent and long aftertaste with crunchy berries on the final." Weinwisser

"Firm, a touch animalic aroma of ripe mixed berries and a hint of plums with fleshy notes, tart nutty hints, pepper and ethereal herbal tones. Taut, tart, ripe, quite dense fruit, present, fine, youthful tannin and some acid bite, persistent, slightly herbaceous, tobacco and peppery, clearly salt in the background, lots of power but also freshness, perfectly vinified, very good, firm, tart finish." Wein-Plus

"Bright ruby red. Spicy-animalic nose, then ripe Amarena cherry and plum, walnut, undergrowth, shoe polish. On the palate equally earthy tones, wide-meshed tannin, plus dark fruit." Falstaff

"Shiny, deep ruby red. In the nose still quite closed with just a hint of Moroccan leather. On the palate pure cherry fruit flavours with lots of ripe acidity. Fantastic, compact, gravelly tannins that are a real tour de force in this vintage. A hedonistic whole that you can already approach but will improve with time." Jancis Robinson

"A smoky entry leads to leather and tobacco nuances that repeat on the palate. The 2018 is packed with flavours of cherries and baking spices. It feels medium-bodied but is very rich and its powerful bite contributes positively to the pleasing mouthfeel. It will get even better with another year in bottle." Decanter

"This is a flavourful, complex Brunello with aromas of fresh and sour cherries, plums, bay leaves, rosemary and olives. Also cloves and liquorice. It is medium to full-bodied with firm, fine-grained tannins. Supple and well integrated, with a long and deliciously spicy finish." James Suckling

"The Il Poggione 2018 Brunello di Montalcino shows a dark and spicy character with more fruit weight and concentration than can be found in many of its competitors. This wine shows a dense focus padded with dark cherry, blackberry, roasted spice, mahogany smoked meat and ploughed earth. Despite the powerful flavours, this Sangiovese is actually quite lean and polished in texture. The tannins are soft and easily accessible. The estate's Riserva Vigna Paganelli was not made in 2018, so the fruit from this wine came here instead." Wine Advocate

"The dense structure sets the pace for this red wine, with aromas of cherry, raspberry, mint and tar that are appealing and expressive. Rosehip, orange peel and earth are evident in the long, expansive aftertaste. It is designed to last a long time." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino impresses from the first swirl of the glass, with a heady burst of exotic spices and crushed ash giving way to dried black cherries and grilled herbs. It combines the energy of the vintage with the dark, balsamic fruits of Montalcino's southern foothills, while zesty acidity maintains balance and minerals saturate towards the finish. The finish is long, savoury and structured, but its tannins are rounder than expected, giving it a classic feel but also leaving a delicious sensation that tempts the taster to reach for the glass again and again. The 2018 is certainly one of the top wines of the vintage, not to be missed." Vinous

"One of the first wineries to deal in Brunello, one of the founding members of the Consortium. A Brunello characterised by freshness, pomegranate on the nose, hints of citrus thyme and white pepper. The palate has juicy tannins with a fruity return." Luca Gardini

With the exception of 2016 and 2019, the last eight years in the region around Montalcino have been characterised by warm and dry conditions. For this reason, Il Poggione has started to prioritise irrigation for emergencies (which is becoming more and more of a necessity in the south-west of Montalcino) and is looking for a better balance in the higher vineyards. This is not the only reason why Il Poggione is one of the top producers every year, with an extremely fair value.

Oenologist Alessandro Bindocci compares the 2019 and 2016 vintages as follows "Both Brunellos are quite classic, but the 2019 has more energy and fruit than the 2016 at the same stage."

Opens as a medium-dark appearance with a pretty Sangiovese lustre and ruby red shimmer. In the glass, the 2019 shows a wildly romantic side and a dense fruit profile. The aromatic focus is on blackberries, dried cherries, tobacco and a hint of smoked tobacco or horse saddle. On the palate, a contrasting spectacle of dark red fruits, sweet spices and salty mineral notes; all supported by a silky texture and lively acidity. As it progresses, it has a beautiful, firm grip and a stable backbone, with youthful tension and fine-grained tannins, which will give it great ageing potential. Il Poggione is a safe bet every year, and not just for us, and the 2019 edition is once again one of the best representatives of this noble appellation. SUPERIORE.DE

"Notes of blackberries and herbs, also tobacco; pithy structure, robust tannins, combines character and good length." Vinum

"Dense bouquet with ripe red and dark fruits, blueberries, wild strawberries, cassis and redcurrants. Behind this, the oak barrel ageing is also evident with a fine animal note, cedar, tobacco, chocolate, dark spices and herbs. Fleshy, dense palate with a coarse-meshed tannin network, but of the best quality. Very persistent and full-bodied on the final." Weinwisser

"Dark, youthful ruby red colour. Very closed and brooding with just a hint of fragrant raspberry, tea leaves and oak. Generous and compact on the palate. A layer of soft cherry and raspberry fruit, lined with quite powerful tannins that need more time. Carries its 15% with ease. Closes on the finish and needs more time." Jancis Robinson

"Lots of dried fruit, such as figs and dried cherries, followed by tree bark, rosemary and a hint of sandalwood. Full-bodied and creamy on the palate with a solid tannin structure. Wonderful length. Dense and opulent." James Suckling

"The Il Poggione 2019 Brunello di Montalcino shows a developed bouquet with aromas of dried fruit, forest floor, crushed flowers and autumnal foliage. A second nose reveals dark liquorice, wet slate, cola and grilled rosemary. The tannins are powdery and dry." Wine Advocate

"It offers plenty of plum, cherry, iron, tobacco and undergrowth flavours supported by a plump texture that matches the dense structure, as well as a lively acidity that keeps everything in focus. Another year of ageing should allow the finish to expand and this wine to reach its full potential." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 vintage is very balanced, somewhere between 2016, 2013 and 2010. Sant'Angelo in Colle, which suffers in warmer vintages, has done very well and Il Poggione is a great example of the harmony of the area's wines in this vintage. At first sniff it is fruity, later becoming more restrained, with black cherry, violets, leather, graphite and the typical nutty finish. The chalky tannins are extracted but velvety, emphasised by an almost piquant acidity." Decanter

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino draws the taster close to the glass with its dark and earthy blend of crushed ash stones giving way to rosemary, cedar, exotic spices and a core of raspberry jam. Enveloping and serene, it flows across the palate like pure silk, steadily building tension as tart wild berry and orange notes give way to a sweet herbal push. The 2019 finishes with tremendous length and is classically structured as crisp tannins linger and purple flowers slowly fade over a tactile layer of minerality. Il Poggione has captured the vibrancy of the vintage, yet it is still a baby today." Vinous

"Fresh nose, pomegranate, notes of lemongrass and ginger with citrus notes. Salty tannins on the palate, reminiscence of pomegranate and notes of ginger." Luca Gardini

The wine from the single vineyard of the same name is probably the most opulent of the selection lines of the house. The bouquet is almost brush-stroke wide with a presence of ripe fruit, spices and hints of crushed rock. On the palate it is impressively smooth and full, with a whole bouquet of dark fruit aromas flanked by firm, structured tannins. The Merlot portion gives it additional depth and power. SUPERIORE.DE

" Seductive nose of maraschino cherries, vanilla, lilac; full-bodied entry, perfectly rounded texture with tight tannins, great length and red-berry freshness, also fine leather and tobacco notes. Of great complexity." Vinum

"Deep, dark ruby with a violet tint. Opened with emphatically earthy notes, after tobacco and truffle, then lots of elderberry and blackberry. Firm and gripping tannin, shows a lot of power, full-bodied, after elderberries, in the final a bit rough, still needs storage. Falstaff

"This aromatic Chianti Classico features violet, black cherry, leather, earth and spice flavors. A laser of bracing acidity and muscular tannins runs underneath. The balance tips toward the tannins today, but put this in your cellar for another few years. Sleek and very long." Wine Spectator

"From the small vineyard facing Castello di Ama from the north, the 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto la Casuccia shows a dark and hearty side with rich fruit that flows steadily from the bouquet. Like the other new releases from this iconic estate, this wine shows a pretty earthy note that is particularly well defined and fine-tuned in this vintage. The fruit is broad, thick and horizontal. This is a Sangiovese painted with broad brush strokes. It'll stand another decade or two, or open it sooner with a pappardelle al cinghiale." Wine Advocate

"The 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto La Casuccia is rich, sensual and inviting, as it so often is. The addition of Merlot to Sangiovese yields a Chianti Classico built on textural resonance, with silky tannins, soft curves and tons of sheer allure. The 2016 won't be ready to drink anytime soon, but it is unquestionably a great wine in the making. Succulent dark cherry, red plum, menthol, licorice, cloves and new oak infuse the creamy, voluptuous finish." Vinous

"Mature black-skinned berry, rose, tilled soil and a balsamic whiff of eucalyptus shape the nose. The bright, elegant palate has energy, tension and depth, delivering ripe wild cherry, red plum, licorice and crushed botanical herb. Taut, fine-grained tannins lend polished support while fresh acidity keeps it balanced. A gorgeous wine." Wine Enthusiast

"The Stilèma project was created as a testimony to Antonio Mastroberardino's love for his land, his vines and his wines, and their original character." Piero Mastroberardino

The project aims to highlight the link between the vines, the wines and their territorial origins. The Mastroberardino family wants to recreate the style of winemaking of the indigenous grape varieties of Irpinia (Greco, Fiano and Aglianico) that took place between the late 1950s and early 1970s for the Taurasi and between 1970 and 1980 for the two white wines from Irpinia. It is the unmistakable style (the stilèma) of a family that has interpreted the natural heritage of its territory over generations and that today impressively emphasises the genuine character of the terroir, which by no means can be expressed through high concentration and intensity alone.

Pale straw yellow in colour with light green reflections. The 24 months of ageing on the lees of this exceptional Fiano creates a fascinating balance and complexity in the aroma profile with classic hints of flint, fine saltiness, the scent of fresh almonds, cedar wood and wild herbs. The flavour is lively with a pronounced mineral note, accompanied by an inspiring freshness that gives it great drinking flow and finesse. The precise and very long finish is also extremely convincing. SUPERIORE.DE

"Proof of the grape variety's ageing potential: On the nose, fresh hay and apple notes, including mint, are captivating; in the mouth, the wine is acidic and fresh with a fine salty minerality and a precise evolution towards citrus and apple notes." Vinum

"This slight hint of initial reduction fades to reveal soft citrus, exotic fruit, white peach and pear. The wine's flinty minerality is well defined. The fruit comes from four vineyards and the wine is mostly aged in stainless steel." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Fiano di Avellino Riserva Stilema is aromatically intense, with a burst of ground ginger, cumin, incense and crushed green apples. It's a seductress, with a sweet burst of ripe fruit on the attack that is quickly contrasted by lemon zest and vibrant acidity. As well as being incredibly fresh, the 2019 is also incredibly long, finishing with a sense of liquid stone and a pleasant bitter note that calls me back to the glass for more." Vinous

"A fresh Fiano with aromas of honeysuckle, flint, oyster shells and green pear, which fade into a medium body, a creamy texture and a fruity finish. Slightly salty on the finish." James Suckling

"A masterful, intense and complex pure Fiano. Beautiful profile on the nose, lychee, a hint of pink grapefruit and pineapple, with a finish of herbs, thyme and a hint of jasmine. Dense, iodised mouthfeel, lovely depth, with a return of exotic fruit." Luca Gardini

"The nose is sweet yet structured, thoughtful and almost wistful, with notes of vanilla, pear, yellow apple, lemon, dried pineapple and almond paste. On the elegant, equally compelling palate, a more intense lemon element swirls around fresher pineapple notes and emerging melon flavours before a toasted almond finish follows. The bright acidity adds a subtle sizzle to the overall silky mouthfeel." Wine Enthusiast

Grattamacco is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese, the latter grape variety certainly contributing to the fresh style of this wine. However, the overall picture is only complete when you realise that the vineyards used for this blend are among the best in the appellation. The Grattamacco Bolgheri Rosso Superiore is characterised by its typical aromas of leaves and Mediterranean forest, with subtle flavours of kiwi peel, cassis, paprika and chocolate. Velvety, youthful and firm on the attack, less light than the Alberello, but more tightly woven and of great elegance. Its length is astonishing, great potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"Stunning berry aromas, facets of dried flowers, pepper and Mediterranean scrub; polished structure with powdery tannins, the accentuated acidity provides youthfulness in the background, then lots of charm and great length on notes of plums, Mediterranean flora and spices." Vinum

"Bright ruby red colour. Expressive, sweet-fruity bouquet of cassis and blackberry, with notes of ebony, tobacco leaf, cocoa and fumé, complex. Spreads across the palate like a silk scarf, with precise fruit and fine-grained tannins, juicy and with gentle pressure into the long finish." Falstaff

"Medium to dark crimson colour. Very complete and with slightly less obvious tannins than the 2016. Already very approachable and well balanced with a chalky texture at the end. Really charming with a light inkiness. Long and fresh." Jancis Robinson

"A bold, sweeping wine, the 2021 Grattamacco is pretty impressive. Readers should expect a potent, extroverted red with tons of Bolgheri opulence. There’s plenty of supporting structure too, but at this stage it’s the wine’s intense, ripe profile that carries the day. A blast of blackberry, scorched earth, new leather, licorice and incense saturates the palate on the long, sustained finish." Vinous

"Blueberry, blackcurrant and pomegranate flavours are accentuated by oak spice, graphite and rosemary notes in this fresh, long red wine. Taut and lively, with excellent balance and a fine-grained tannin band on the finish." Wine Spectator

"The result in 2021 is magnificent, with the scent of blackberries and a dense, savoury palate with black and blue berries, silky tannins and sous bois complexity. The wonderful juicy softness of the fruit is enlivened by minty-fresh acidity, a savoury kick and a tasty, almost ferrous finish." Decanter

"This is a different level, with blackcurrants, blueberries and Mediterranean herbs such as rosemary and sage. Also tobacco and coffee beans. Medium-bodied with fine tannins and a lingering finish. Sophisticated and thought-provoking. A new level of quality with this wine." James Suckling

Smells intensely of redcurrants and black cherries, leather, spices and liquorice. Lush and flowing on the palate, all elements merge into a great, striking wine. Great potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, bright ruby colour with a hint of violet and a delicately brightening rim. A compact nose of ripe blackberry and rich cherry, with elegant peppery spice and a fine malt flavour rounding off the bouquet. Polished and juicy on the palate, shows great entry with a racy, gripping finish, with a fine salty undertone, can be stored for a long time." Falstaff

"Impenetrable dark ruby. Rich blackberry and blueberry fruit with touches of cassis, bell pepper, black pepper and fully integrated oak. Juicy blackberry fruit with gritty elegant tannins and a lush finish. A very good wine from an unremarkable year." Jancis Robinson

"On the nose, there are spicy notes of thyme, sour cherries, lemon leaves and blackcurrants as well as black olives. It is full-bodied with firm, well-integrated tannins and a tangy kick of acidity. Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. From organically grown grapes. Drinkable from 2023." James Suckling

"Outstanding, elegant blend of Merlot with Cabernet Sauvignon: spicy forest fruit flavours, a powerful start, the tannins are fine-meshed and in balance with the acidity, the finish is berry-spicy and long." Vinum

"The Geremia 2018 is outstanding. A wine full of energy and finesse, the 2018 Geremia is more about persistence than volume. Blueberry, blackberry, lavender, liquorice and scorched earth are abundant. In 2018, Geremia is a wine of tension and restraint. Its best days are still far in the future. I wouldn't dream of touching a bottle anytime soon." Vinous

La Casa 2016 is a terrificwine in deep dark ruby red and a bouquet of small red berries, cedar wood and spicy-scented flowers that opens up for minutes. The palate is precise, taut and finely layered, with silky textures and a palate concert of spicy black cherries, spices, leather, tobacco and tar. Dense yet elegant as it progresses, the fine-grained tannins rounding out its perfect beauty. Very intense and with a wonderful ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"The round dance opens with fine-smelling aromas of raspberries and blossoms; opens with fine-grained tannins and concise acidity, then an extremely linear course to a multi-tonal fruit finish. Very successful." Vinum

"Already the bouquet shows a lot of intensity with ripe plums and dark, candied cherries, plus a bouquet of floral notes, violets, lavender, but also "powerful" notes like iron and blood. Densely built on the palate with present, ripe tannins, sweet berry fruit, showing provenance and vintage with a multi-layered final and punchy Sangiovese spice." Weinwisser

"Powerful, sparkling ruby. Very much present and clear fruit, after fresh plums, dark cherries, fine cloves in the background. Gripping, gripping tannin, spreads out richly, after red berry fruit, slightly malty note in the final." Falstaff

"Rich red fruit, sour cherry, blueberry, seems quite young, raw meat, pithy herbal spice; still very firm pulling tannin on the palate, not too expansive." Meiningers Sommelier

"One of five vineyards sites in the Caparzo stable, Vigna La Casa is located on the Galestro-rich soil of Montalcino’s revered Montosoli hill. Quite primary and fresh, this hints at smoke, cedar and star anise. It is more firmly structured and robust than the estate Brunello, with palpable wood tannins and ripe, dark cherry filling out the palate." Decanter

"Rose, graphite, star anise and eucalyptus aromas come to the forefront. The chiseled, racy palate features juicy morello cherry, licorice and coffee bean framed in close-grained tannins and bright acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino La Casa takes a little time to collect itself in the glass, pulling you closer as white smoke gives way to crushed stone, then peppery florals, wild strawberry and cedar. The textures are like pure silk, with an elegant display of savory black cherry and spice complicated by salty minerals. This shows amazing density while never feeling heavy, nearly masking its fine-grained tannins until the very end, where hints of orange citrus and dried berries linger. The 2016 La Casa is a beauty with plenty of upside potential." Vinous

"This red displays a mix of macerated plum, cherry, mint, earth, iron and sanguine flavors. In the savory camp, without the purity of many of its peers, at least today, yet harmonious and long, with dusty tannins on the finish. Be patient." Wine Spectator

"Aromas of berry, toffee and chocolate with cherry undertones. It’s full-bodied with a tight, focused palate with ripe tannins and a flavorful finish. Tight and polished. Needs bottle age to open and show its true potential." James Suckling

Bright golden colour, full bouquet with explosive aromas of quince, honey, wax, granite, blood orange, vanilla, white chocolate and straw. Initial notes of roasted cashew and almond on the palate, followed by fruit such as white peach, pear and citrus. Exciting and very multi-faceted. SUPERIORE.DE

"Extremely balanced nose of exotic fruits, flanked by bold citrus notes, Mediterranean flowers and spices; the attack is supple, the acidity perfectly integrated and yet a source of finesse and freshness, finishes long and extremely multi-faceted on fruit and balsamic flavours. Very successful." Vinum

"This is a little more subtle than past bottlings and shows freshness and brightness with some crushed stones, dried apples, lemon blossoms and honeysuckle. Medium-bodied with fresh, tangy undertones of sliced pears and honey. Crisp finish. Some stones and just a hint of phenolics at the end. Complex. Best yet?" James Suckling

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

"Intense aroma of dark forest berries, herbs and spices, pepper above all; full bodied on the palate, the tannins and acidity in perfect balance, with a promising future, and yet already convincing the finish. Great wine." Vinum

"Deep, dark ruby with a violet tint. Impressive, multi-layered nose, of beetroot, saffron, elderberries and blackberries. Smooth and clear at the beginning and the end, with lots of thick, dense tannin, salty, juicy fruit, deep in the final. Falstaff

"Aromas of black-skinned fruit, dark spice and sunbaked soil mingle with whiffs of camphor and forest floor on this enticing blend of 80% Sangiovese and 20% Malvasia Nera. The elegant, structured palate delivers black plum, ripe black cherry, star anise and crushed mint while firm, polished tannins provide support and finesse. It's well balanced, with bright acidity, while an earthy hint of game gives the finish depth." Wine Enthusiast

This is a contrast of power and refinement, with black cherry and black currant fruit encased in a sheen of oak, while burly tannins and vivid acidity enhance the structure. Awkward today, this displays incredible elegance, with a laser of vivid acidity driving the exceptional length. Sangiovese and Malvasia Nera. Best from 2023 through 2043." Wine Spectator

"The 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto Bellavista sees fruit sourced from one of Castello di Ama's most beautiful vineyards with a wide exposures and plenty of sunshine. This wine shows profound complexity and a far-reaching bouquet that evolves slowly in the glass. Of these three single-vineyard Gran Selezione wines (Bellavista, La Casuccia and San Lorenzo), the Vigneto Bellavista is the most complete, but it is also the most linear and streamlined in terms of mouthfeel. I would bet on putting this wine aside in your cellar for a longer aging time." Wine Advocate

"Ama's 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto Bellavista is a flat out stunner. Dark and brooding in its first impression, the 2016 races out of the glass with explosive vertical lift. This structured, potent Chianti Classico won't be ready to drink anytime soon, but it is immensely promising. Savory herbs, crushed rocks, chalk and dried flowers add myriad layers of dimension. The 2016 is complex, nuanced and built for cellaring." Vinous

Paleo - unmistakable Cabernet Franc and one of Bolgheri's most important wines, full of elegance and class. The name goes back quite unspectacularly to a weed that has long since been removed from the vineyards of Le Macchiole. Rich ruby red with violet reflections. On the nose, mint, white pepper, blackberry fruit and some pomegranate. Fine melting on the palate with hints of tobacco and poppy. Wonderfully structured and with a long final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Cabernet Franc in purezza, a grape variety that is perfectly suited to some sites near Bolgheri: Needs some aeration, then multi-layered aromas of cassis, undergrowth, maquis and spices; superb construction with powerful complexity, the tannin precise, finishes long and seductive. Great wine." Vinum

"Sparkling ruby-violet with a slightly lightening rim. Opens on the nose with emphatically spicy notes of white pepper, oregano and thyme, then raspberry and cassis. On the palate, lots of sweet, dark berry fruit, shows gripping, firm tannin, plus fine sweet melting, firm pressure in the final and a long finish." Falstaff

"A beam of blackcurrants paired with aromas and flavours of black olives, peppers, wild rosemary, tar and vanilla. A crisp and concentrated red wine with light tannins on the lively finish." Wine Spectator

"A full-bodied, powerful and polished red wine with aromas of dark plums, dark cherries, tobacco, bay leaves, dark chocolate, mocha and cedar. Firm, ripe tannins. Compact and muscular. Yet it remains fresh. Will soften even more. Taste after 2025." James Suckling

"In 2019, Paleo recovers its precise and stylish character and amazing concentration. This Cabernet Franc was fermented and macerated in concrete and then aged for 18 months in new French oak. Its dark purple colour shows subtle cassis wrapped in spice and milk chocolate, with assertive eucalyptus and delicious parma violet. The palate is juicy and almost savoury, velvety and with tannins infused with violets and cassis. Remarkable length with integrated toasty flavours." Decanter

"Cedar chips, wild herbs, black pepper, bergamot and undergrowth on the nose, sour cherry, mixed berries, soy sauce and liquorice sweets on the palate. Tannins that feel like a firm hand and an acidic heat bubbling underneath combine to create a showstopper." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2019 Paleo is an absolute stunner. Deep, plush and explosive, the 2019 has fabulous density and is not heavy at all. All the elements are so well balanced. Dark cherry, plum, chocolate, mocha, espresso and grilled herbs meld together in the glass. The purity and persistence of the flavours is absolutely compelling. The 2019 is really impressive. I loved it." Vinous

"Originated as a blend with Sangiovese, now proudly Cabernet Franc in purity, unique in the area, the result of very careful varietal work, nose with notes of blackcurrant, undergrowth and eucalyptus, then notes of black peppercorns. Fruity and spicy finish." Luca Gardini

"The Le Macchiole 2019 Paleo shows an extremely precise and distinct personality, perfectly suited to this classic vintage. If you love Cabernet Franc, this is your wine. The bouquet is linear and dense with wet gravel, pencil and graphite forming an elegant frame around blackberries and black plums. You can taste every little detail in this complex and powerful wine. The fruit comes from a 5.5 hectare plot that rises from 37 to 70 metres above sea level. The soils are a mixture of clay, sand, silt, stone and limestone, characteristic of this stretch of Tuscan coastline. On the second nose, the Paleo offers cardamom pods, exotic spices and fragrant rose water." Wine Advocate

Since the 2011 vintage, the Riserva Marchese Antinori has been made entirely from grapes from Tenuta Tignanello. As a result, the production volume has decreased and a further leap in quality has been made. Sparkling ruby in colour, with a bouquet of dark wild cherries, graphite, violets and spices. Flowing and round on the palate, very juicy, the French oak adds volume and fullness. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark purple in the glass. Dried red fruits, floral notes such as jasmine blossom and rose petals, also black smoked tea, with air also black cherry. Present on the palate with red fruit, again tea leaves, a hint of bitter almond. Tannins present but well woven, acidity that supports the body and gives it strength. Has bite and a lot of class." Vinum

"Dark, bright ruby red colour, lightening rim. Appealing nose of fine precious wood, cold smoke, ripe cherry fruit and ripe wild berries on the finish. Great compactness on the palate, acidity and fruit are in their place, powerful, balanced, accessible." Falstaff

"The Chianti Classico Riserva Marchese Antinori 2021 is developing into a gem of a wine, even if it is still a little closed at the moment. Dark fruits, spices, leather and tobacco are layered in a Riserva that exudes tension, energy and sheer power." Vinous

"It is a Sangiovese kissed with small proportions of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The wine is accessible and open, spiritually this wine is a Chianti Classico. By this I mean that the elegant minerality of these soils and the sunny flavours of the surroundings are the defining characteristics. You can taste wild flowers, iris, tart fruit and plums. The pronounced mineral character of the wine with dusty white rock gives it lasting complexity and depth." Wine Advocate

"This ripe style is fresh and harmonious, with fruit of plums, cherries and boysenberries, with accents of earth, iron and eucalyptus. Smooth in texture, with a beautifully integrated structure and a long, complex aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"In making a great wine, the primary goal is to emphasise, perfect and seal in a bottle all the extraordinary characteristics of the territory: from the different soils to the microclimate, from the vibrant power of the Mediterranean maquis to the fresh sea breeze." Stanislaus Turnauer (winery owner)

Actually, the single vineyard of just 1 hectare is unique, as it only comprises a small hilltop in the shape of a fan (Italian: ventaglio). The grapes from here have always represented the top of the winery's production and so it was decided to vinify them separately from the 2015 vintage onwards - and the new top wine "Ventaglio" was born.

Due to the curious location and geographical orientation of the vineyard in all directions, there are morning grapes, midday grapes and evening grapes here and they represent the respective site-specific microclimate in an impressive way. Likewise, through the subsequent joint processing, they give their differences in aromatic development, maturity and freshness as a total work of art in this exceptional wine, in which every nuance of the terroir, no matter how small, is expressed correctly and in a balanced manner.

Complex and with a noble body, balanced by an undeniable elegance, Ventaglio appears as the overall expression of Cabernet Franc, which grows particularly well in the Bolgheri area. This first site wine of the Tenuta, symbol of decades of experience in single-varietal winemaking, is vinified only in special vintages in an extremely limited number of bottles. SUPERIORE.DE

"Very ripe and luscious but kept fresh by the principal variety and, presumably, the reliable breeze off the Tyrrhenian Sea. Still quite a bit of tannin in evidence, so food is definitely needed at the moment. Good choice to go for Cabernet Franc, likely to distinguish the wine and to keep it fresh as the climate warms up – even if its perfume is much fuller and less high-toned than that of, say, a Loire Cabernet Franc." Jancis Robinson

"1.2 hectares of vines at 120 metres above sea level, this is where the grapes grow for this Cabernet Franc, which is still blended with a little Cabernet Sauvignon in the first vintage, but will appear in purezza in the future: Beguiling berry aromas, also herbal and spicy notes; extremely harmonious texture with rough edges, the final is long as an eel with fine minerality." Vinum

"This is the first vintage of Tenuta Argentiera's latest single-vineyard wine, a Cabernet from a stunning vineyard shaped like a fan ("Ventaglio" in Italian) that rises around a solitary oak tree that offers a breathtaking view of the blue sea and the umbrella trees. The 2015 Ventaglio embraces this vast panorama with a multitude of black fruit aromas and flavours. Blackberry and plum are offset by smoke, campfire ash, minerals and wet river rock. These delicate earthy tones provide a beautiful backdrop to the opulent darkness within." Wine Advocate

"There is a purity to the black cherry, blackberry and plum fruit flavors in this version, along with some notes of evolution like sweet spices and heady, woodsy underbrush. Deftly oaked, with an iron underpinning. This is balanced and long, in a word, superb." Wine Spectator

"Very dense ruby with violet glints. Opens with emphatic spicy notes of cedar and juniper, some tar and liquorice, then lots of dark berry fruit. Very powerful on the palate, opens with dense tannin in many layers, very polished on the final, lots of dark berry fruit in the finish." Falstaff

"An absolutely beautiful red wine with aromas of blackberries, mushrooms, fresh herbs and chocolate. It is full-bodied, balanced and creamy with super polished and ripe tannins and a fantastic finish of beautiful fruit. I love the precision and focus. 85% cabernet franc and 15% cabernet sauvignon. Beautiful already, but in four or five years it will be fantastic." James Suckling