wine classics

A small part of Merotto's top product was held back on the occasion of the celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of the winery and only came onto the market a few weeks ago with 2 years of bottle maturity. Graziano Merotto personally followed the maturation and development in the bottle over the entire period. The result of this extraordinary anniversary project is a sparkling wine of great complexity, elegance and personality. It impressively reflects the soul, the history and the passion of Graziano Merotto. SUPERIORE.DE

Ghiaie della Furba means "pebbles of the Furba stream" and there is a reason for this, as the vines for this wine grow on the river pebbles on the banks of this stream. It is one of the very first "Supertuscans". After an hour in the carafe, this extremely complex red reveals wonderfully clear, dark fruit, blackberries and cassis, as well as coffee notes, dark chocolate and spices. Its very good structure and personality are impressive. It is already very accessible today (with aeration), but is still hiding its great potential for the next decade. SUPERIORE.DE

"A lively, elegant red wine with aromas and flavours of black cherries, blackcurrants, violets, cedar and tobacco. Balanced, while a sweep of firm, dense tannins support the long, fruity and flavoursome finish." Wine Spectator

"The nose is like a garden after a storm, with aromas of fruit and flowers mixing with the stones crushed underfoot and the saltiness of still-wet air. Red plums, mission figs, roses and violets continue onto the palate, with umami undertones setting up a coffee and chili pepper finish." Wine Enthusiast

Sister Moon was the first wine composition under Sting's direction and was logically named after one of his most famous songs. Dark ruby red, complex on the nose and on the palate with intense cherry fruit and hints of spices, some smoke, very harmonious and long. Well-integrated wood does not make this red at all heavy or one-dimensional, but rounds off the pleasure on the palate masterfully and long with beautifully integrated tannin. SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep aromas of blackberries, blueberries and bark with some dried flowers, following through to a medium body with firm and polished tannins and a tangy and fresh finish. Some dark earth at the finish." James Suckling

Pelagrilli 2018 offers a great package of intensity, freshness, firmness and complexity. It delivers generously on all fronts. The bouquet reveals wild cherry, rosehip, dried herbs and toasted almonds. The fruit here tastes less ripe compared to the wines from the southern parts of the appellation and one senses a subtle acidic vein on the finish. This very classic Brunello should age in the bottle for a few more years and gain volume. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling ruby garnet with brightening rim. Very clear and intense nose, lots of blackberry, ripe dark cherry, dried tomato in the background. Shows nice, accessible cherry fruit on the palate, opens up in many layers with grippy tannin, balsamic notes and firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"Wild blueberries, crushed violets, allspice, spiced orange peel and a hint of cocoa are found in the glass. The region's clay soils give the wine a velvety smooth and undeniably elegant feel with a dense textural wave of ripe, dark red fruits that coat the palate in concentration, complemented by sweet herbal notes within and a hint of lavender. Like the proverbial iron fist in a velvet glove, the 2018 reveals a massive wall of fine-grained tannins on the finish, leaving only nuances of sour citrus and currants. This untamed beast of a Brunello will need a long ageing to develop all its charms. It's worth noting that no Riserva PS is bottled in this vintage, so all the juice was used to top up the Pelagrilli and Rosso." Vinous

"A fruity version packed with cherry, raspberry, floral and stony mineral aromas and flavors. A vibrant and elegant red, with a firm line of tannins guarding the finish. Shows superb balance and future potential." Wine Spectator

"The Siro Pacenti 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Pelagrilli presents in an elegantly designed bottle with plenty of dark fruit and blackberry, the quality of the fruit is powerful, fresh and still very much alive. The house style relies on concentration and oak spice, but the attention to detail in the winemaking is impeccable." Wine Advocate

"Complex and layered with truffles, white pepper, cardamom, dried cherries, blueberries, bay leaves, fresh mushrooms and potpourri. Sophisticated and weightless, with medium to full body and very finely woven tannins that have more texture. Everything so beautifully integrated. Drinkable from 2024." James Suckling

"North-eastern territory, from a company that has made history. A concrete project of sustainability as substantial as this Brunello, which comes from the youngest vineyards. On the nose, Marasca cherries, nuances of eucalyptus and white pepper. The drinkability is dense, crisp, balsamic with a fruity-spicy finish." Luca Gardini

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

The grapes for Ricasoli's classic come from a south-facing plot at an ideal altitude of 250 to 450 metres above sea level. Castello di Brolio Gran Selezione is a wonderful wine with great richness and depth. It has an intense bouquet of small red berries, violets and spices. The flavour reveals precision, structure and freshness. The tannin and acidity are well-balanced and promise a long life and an interesting ageing period. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, medium ruby red colour. Opens elegantly on the nose with aromas of redcurrants, orange peel and juicy cherries. Cool fruit on the palate, very elegant, well-integrated tannins, exciting and persistent final." Falstaff

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Brolio 2021 smells of red Sangiovese fruit, white pepper, cedar wood, tobacco, incense and dried herbs. In the glass, the Riserva is bright and complex, with great energy, another good offering from the Ricasoli family. In fact, the 2021 is one of the best editions I have ever tasted." Vinous

"The Barone Ricasoli 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Gaiole Castello di Brolio, now labelled with the Gaiole sub-region on the back label, displays a beautiful bouquet densely packed with carefully ripened fruit. The aromas are characterised by hints of candied cherries intermingled with orris root, dried mint and spice. This generous Sangiovese finishes with lingering freshness." Wine Advocate

"A core of ripe cherries, plums and pomegranates permeates this lively, complex red wine. A balanced version with a firm grip on the finish that complements its fresh acidity. The long aftertaste recalls the fruit and mineral and Mediterranean shrub notes." Wine Spectator

"Ricasoli's flagship wine is a blend of grapes from vineyards in Gaiole on the most important soil types of the Chianti Classico: Macigno (sandstone), Galestro and Alberese. The wine shows delicate notes of dark cherries and spiced plums, which are followed in the mouth by a wonderfully vertical structure in which the juicy fruit floats and the savoury edges vibrate with energy. The fruit has a wonderful juiciness, and the tannins are supportive but play a subordinate role. Absolute class." Decanter

"Intense and balanced, perfect standard bearer of the winery. Intense and complex nose, red mulberry, hints of cloves, a touch of laurel and rhubarb. The sip has spicy tannins, a hint of floral nuances and a finish with an officinal return." Luca Gardini

"This wine is so elegant, with a finesse and sensitivity that are so fascinating. It is delicate and almost weightless, with a beautiful and energetic balance of fruit and acidity. It is medium-bodied and extremely long. Medium chewiness. It goes on and on. Dark cherries, bark and lots of flowers on the finish." James Suckling

Deep dark cherry red with a violet glow on the rim. Aromas of spices such as rosemary and thyme on the nose, with fruity notes of blackcurrant and cherry. Blackberry, cherry, fresh plum and cranberry on the palate, wonderful cassis notes and dark chocolate on the long final. Modern Tuscan, stylistically rigorous in the French style. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant ruby with dark, aubergine-coloured nuances. Juicy black cherry, dark chocolate and cedar on the nose, with a hint of forest floor behind it. On the palate with a dense and velvety texture, concentrated fruit and firm tannins." Falstaff

"This shows notes of blackcurrants and blackberries with dark chocolate, clove and cardamom undertones. Medium- to full-bodied with creamy tannins and a compact structure. Vivid and dark-fruited with a crunchy finish." James Suckling

Pinot Nero and Chardonnay give this exceptional Franciacorta a delicate salmon red colour with an orange touch. Strawberry fruit, a hint of blackcurrant and fine floral nuances on the nose. Freshly structured on the palate, with a lively mousse and a delicate red berry flavour with citrus undertones. A light-footed character with elegance, character and grace right through to the finish. SUPERIORE.DE

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

"Bright ruby red colour. On the nose, it smells of beautiful precious wood, lightly of coconut flakes, ripe cherries, cranberries and cold smoke. Compact on the palate with tightly woven tannins, beautifully savoury, opens up on the final with warm-hearted fruit, carried by a full-bodied, long finish." Falstaff

"Brilliant medium ruby red colour. Seductive, sophisticated nose of raspberries with oak notes and mineral, stony notes. Almost a little exotic. Juicy raspberry fruit with lots of gravelly tannins. Elegant and long. Undeniably attractive now." Jancis Robinson

"On the nose, small red fruits, redcurrants, then notes of laurel and peony. The mouthfeel is flavoursome, very taut, with a strawberry and juniper berry note that keeps reappearing and an excellent persistence." Luca Gardini

"Intense, with complex flavours of cherries, blackberries, violets, minerals and leafy undergrowth, this red wine is silky and almost racy. Harmonious and persistent, with a long, resonant aftertaste that reflects red fruit, mineral and spicy elements." Wine Spectator

"A sophisticated and very refined Rancia with sweet berries, cedar wood and a hint of chocolate. Medium body. Fresh and concentrated. A little restrained on the finish. It needs two or three years to develop." James Suckling

"The Chianti Classico Riserva Rancia 2020 shows a beautiful minerality with dusty notes of crushed limestone or flint. This is the wine's special signature, which comes into its own particularly well in a warm vintage like this one. The Rancia also offers a superficial quality with red and violet fruit tones. The 2020 vintage shows lovely concentration and richness with wild cherry and plum, but ultimately the wine leaves an elegant mineral finish. The Rancia will need additional bottle ageing." Wine Advocate

Pinot Nero and Chardonnay give this exceptional Franciacorta a delicate salmon red colour with an orange touch. Strawberry fruit, a hint of blackcurrant and fine floral nuances on the nose. Freshly structured on the palate, with a lively mousse and delicate red berry flavours with citrus undertones. A light-footed character with elegance, character and grace right through to the finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense orange-pink with copper reflections. Clear and fragrant on the nose, candle wax, raspberries, subtle hint of salted caramel, some incense on the finish. Balanced and precise on the palate, with fine playfulness and clear fruit, final on a fine vanilla note with a slightly phenolic finish." Falstaff

"Notes of strawberry, cranberry and fresh rose make for a lively and vibrant flavour profile. The wine has a hint of blood orange peel and ends with crisp acidity, a lively perlage and a long-lasting finish." Wine Enthusiast

"A blend with a light proportion of Chardonnay, but with a strong proportion of Pinot Noir, with partial use of oak during vinification and ageing. Very balsamic nose, with notes of redcurrant, thyme and iodised notes." Luca Gardini

In the very well-balanced 2019 vintage, the winery offers us an extremely flavoursome and juicy wine that carries the spirit of Montalcino from the first to the last sip. Fine notes of sage and mint beautifully round off the warm, ripe and extremely rich fruit bouquet. The palate prances with a fine red berry acid wire that is underpinned by a great velvety texture. On the other hand, it is a taut, precise and particularly fresh Brunello that delights us even at a young age. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, spicy bouquet with fully ripe fruit, blue berries, ripe cherries, leather and sweet spices. Juicy and beguiling on the palate with redcurrant and pomegranate, followed by tobacco and delicate mineral and herbal notes with balsamic nuances. Very juicy and full of finesse, full of crackling tension and yet so seductive, stylish and powerful. It scores with its subtle and refined style on the spicy final." Weinwisser

"Bright ruby-garnet colour with a brightening rim. Extremely appealing nose, fine aromas of roses, ripe dark cherries, fresh blackberries and a hint of saffron. Supple on the palate with lush fruit, but then also shows grippy, present tannins, firm pressure on the final, long finish." Falstaff

"The Brunello is made from a large number of south-facing, airy plots at an altitude of 240 to 360 metres. The exceptionally fragrant 2019 wine smells of sweet Mediterranean herbs, arbutus and raspberries. It is medium-bodied with soft, sandy tannins and captivates with its tangerine freshness. While a hint of warming alcohol shines through, it retains its graceful stature." Decanter

"Sour cherries with undertones of stone and bark in the flavours. Medium body, firm tannins and a long, linear finish that ends tightly. However, it softens with age. Subtle bark and dried mushroom character at the end." James Suckling

"Dusky cherry and plum flavors are the main themes in this red, with accents of leather, spices and wild herbs. Lively and focused, with excellent harmony and a sequel of ripe cherry on the lingering finish." Wine Spectator

"This wine is not to be confused with a Brunello. The Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona 2019 Brunello di Montalcino shows a beautiful continuity that unfolds in sync on the nose and palate. There are aromas of grilled watermelon, red cherry, garden herbs and violets, and there is a charred note reminiscent of toasted oak. The bouquet is very balanced, but on the palate it is much more powerful, thanks to the high alcohol content of 15% and the young tannins that hit the palate. Give this wine a few more years of bottle ageing." Wine Advocate

"A compact Brunello from Ciacci Piccolomini. The nose opens with notes of cranberry, then marjoram and a hint of eucalyptus. Juicy and taut drinkability, tasty tannins, closes with a return of small fruits and balsamic sensations." 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 vines for the Brunello are planted in Galestro soils with clay and slate on a 3.5-hectare plot, with a total production of less than 15,000 bottles per vintage. Powerful, bright ruby colour, light garnet hue. Red liquorice, dried roses, a hint of cedar wood and black cherry make up the seductive bouquet. The fruit has a certain density and heaviness, which is emphasised by oak notes and the wine's tannins. On the palate, a silky texture with a sweet and sour expression of red berry fruit and minerals led by savoury acids, while grippy tannins build towards the end. Very full-bodied and gripping with great potential, but still needs some bottle ageing. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is earthy and savoury in the best possible way with an almost rustic blend of old cedar spice box and dried roses underscored by orange peel and bright cherries. This wine is wonderfully pure and silky, with an appropriate inner sweetness and an abundance of ripe red and blue fruit swirling throughout. The juicy acidity maintains a lovely energy as the 2019 finishes long. Fine-grained tannins saturate, and an aftertaste of tart cranberry lingers on the cheeks. This energetic and supple Brunello from Cerbaia will only need a short ageing period to show its best side." Vinous

"So floral and fresh with rose stem, sandalwood and orange blossom. Also cherries. Full-bodied yet restrained, with creamy, fine tannins and a lovely finish. Shows brightness and finesse. Silky texture. One of the best Brunellos I have ever tasted. A Brunello that emphasises the purity of the fruit. Give it another three to four years." James Suckling

Amarone Case Vecie takes its name from the vineyard of the same name in the municipality of Grezzana in Valpantena. This is an exceptional plot of land where the grapes ripen slowly and consistently even in the most difficult years thanks to the altitude and exposure. The late harvest makes it possible to store the grapes in a cooler season and to carry out a slow and long drying process that develops the characteristic flavours. A wine that brings out the natural characteristics of the high mountain climate: a true Amarone delle "Vigne Alte".

Intense ruby red colour. Case Vecie needs time to open up in the glass. It seduces with a rather unobtrusive but also meditative expression and draws the eye to a pretty bouquet of blackberries, lavender and violets. The palate reveals pure elegance that rests on a core of lively acidity and at the same time displays an impressive density with radiant black fruits that gain volume and depth towards the end. Cherries, sweet spices, mocha and dark, floral notes run through the dramatically long final. The harmony and balance is already astonishing and will continue to refine with further bottle ageing. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, bright ruby red with a subtly brightening rim. A nose of cloves and cinnamon powder, with a fine hint of pepper and a finish of fine sultanas, rich black cherries and elegant wood. Polished and warm on the palate, with a creamy finish and ripe fruit." Falstaff

"Deep ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Deep nose of cherry soaked in liqueur with hints of dark cocoa powder. Juicy, supple, deep cherry fruit with a thick layer of fine-grained tannins. Gripping, juicy final. The tannic weight requires more time in the bottle, but the whole is well balanced and the alcohol goes virtually unnoticed. Can age." Jancis Robinson

"This red wine, with its plush texture wrapped in sinewy tannins, shows flavours of black cherries, steeped tea, dried oregano and tea rose. It finishes with a hint of orange peel acidity and rich notes of loamy earth and spice." Wine Spectator

"Tantalising aromas of dried strawberries and raspberries, along with notes of heather-like herbs and dried citrus peel. Full-bodied with beautiful, silky tannins that embrace the fruit and provide length. In fact, this wine is very long, releasing more and more cedar and savoury dried peel for you to enjoy. An excellent 2017 from a top Amarone vineyard." James Suckling

"This single-vineyard Amarone is high in the hills of the Valpantena Valley and opens with aromas of macerated black cherries steeped in anise and clove that then evolve into notes of forest floor and dried herbs. Finesse is driven with a balance between wild plums, savory and oolong tea notes that are guided by the elegant tannins and mouth-watering acidity on the end." Wine Enthusiast

"The Amarone della Valpolicella Case Vecie 2017 is a dream come true, with a remarkably fresh bouquet of roses, violets, cedar shavings, dusty cherry and sweet smoke. This is elegance personified, with ripe red and black fruits energised by vibrant acidity as candy spices emerge. Minerals add a tactile note towards the end. Balsamic herbs and a hint of mocha resonate, while the 2017 finishes with soft tannins and a slightly bitter aftertaste that underlines the wine perfectly. This child of a warm vintage shows impressive balance and enormous potential for the future. Bury your bottles deep." Vinous

The strictly selected grapes come from the vineyard "Il Corno" of approx. 400 m altitude with ideal southern exposure. Bright, sparkling ruby red. Well structured nose of blackberries, cassis, some cedar and shoe polish. Medium ripe, quite fresh fruit on the palate, yet supple and well balanced with all the volume. In the rest of the drink with great finesse, coolness and liveliness, the finish is long with well integrated wood, red fruitiness, with a slightly salty vein and lots of spice. A harmonious and well-proportioned top wine of the house, which can rightly bear the highest quality level Gran Selezione. SUPERIORE.DE

"Pure varietal Sangiovese full of elegance and polish; complex nose with lots of fruit and nuances of sandalwood and spices; polished attack with well-structured tannins and minerality, finishes long and balanced." Vinum

"Radiant, dark ruby red with brightening rim. Elegant on the nose with precise, crisp fruit on cherry, plus violets, elder and subtle oak notes. Polished on the palate, with crisp acidity, very well integrated fine tannin, pulls through steely to the final with fine fruit notes." Falstaff

"On the nose the fruit is still a little subdued. Hints of malt. Really takes its time to open up. Bags of sour-cherry fruit on the palate. Lots of juice and fruit, but maintains elegance throughout. Tangy finish with finely ground tannins and jewel-like acidity." Jancis Robinson

"A big, concentrated red marked by black cherry, blackberry, plum and tar aromas and flavors. As this plays out on the gripping finish, the intense flavors are matched by stiff tannins. Long and fresh." Wine Spectator

"This wine absolutely stands out and is poised to evolve carefully over time. The Castello di Radda 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna il Corno is focused and bright with vibrant fruit, cassis, grilled herb and blue flower. Made with Sangiovese only, the wine is true to the grape and to the classic vintage. It remains streamlined and polished on the palate." Wine Advocate

"Vigna Il Corno (‘the horn’) is made with grapes from a plot at 400m on a calcareous clay soil. Fermentation is in 50hl stainless steel tanks, malolactic in new 5hl oak tonneaux, then 24 months in the same casks and an additional 12 months of bottle ageing. Dark, brooding, flinty style on nose, cherries and woodland notes. Refined, slick and smooth, lively with good concentration. Federico Moccia: Red fruit and violet aromas, rose floral notes. Racy, juicy palate with herbal notes, tannins well integrated, cherry and redcurrant juice. Refreshing, with great purity. Michaela Morris: Classic spiced cherry with forest cedar. Still quite sweet-wood driven, but admirable fruit purity on the palate, the oak quite integrated. Concentrated with good tannin backbone, finishes bright." Decanter

Selection of 100% Sangiovese grapes from the estate's vineyards, which are located on the south-eastern and south-western slopes of the municipality of Montalcino at an altitude of 250 to 400 metres above sea level. The soils have an open sandy texture with clay and abundant Galestro skeleton. The wines are aged for at least 24 months in Liters French oak barrels and in Slavonian oak barrels with a capacity of 15-25 hl. This is followed by ageing in the bottle. Talentis Brunello has an intense ruby red colour with garnet reflections, a broad bouquet on the nose, slightly spicy. In the mouth it is full, intense, soft and velvety with elegant and sweet tannins. Wonderful value. SUPERIORE.DE

"The nose is on the cherry side, with a hint of mocha and flowers; the attack is delicate, the clean tannins and acidity in harmony, with a long finish. Also very successful in this vintage." Vinum

"Bright ruby red colour. Very elegant and clear nose of sugared cherry fruit, rosehips, shortbread and Assam tea, freshly ground pepper on the finish. Elegant on the palate, with clear fruit, great acidity and a tense finish, very precise, stunning vintage Brunello!" Falstaff

"Medium to deep ruby red colour. Spicy, aromatic but not sweet oak notes and subdued fruit. Polished cherry and raspberry fruit with a nice bite of ripe tannins on the finish and fully integrated oak. Elegant weight on the palate." Jancis Robinson

"Perfumed, with red berries, cherries and a hint of rose stems on the nose. Medium-bodied, with plenty of wood and richness. Powerful and a little austere, but should soften and come together with age." James Suckling

"It is less exuberant than usual, with mineral and ferrous notes in the lead role. Dried mint and fennel emerge on opening. The palate is full-bodied and fruity, offering great depth of expressive red berry and stony earth flavours. The ripe yet grippy tannins are tightly knit." Decanter

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino opens slowly with a mix of savoury herbs, worn leather, dried roses and cinnamon-dusted currants. It flows across the palate with textures of pure silk, racy yet refined, with a seamless wave of ripe red fruit that slowly saturates towards the finish. The finish is long, colourful yet harmonious. Crisp tannins frame the experience without slowing the momentum, while liquorice and orange notes gradually fade away. This fantastic, energised version of Talenti's Brunello will thrive in the cellar over the next ten to fifteen years." Vinous

"Ripe, sweet cherry, raspberry and iron flavours underline this powerful, juicy red wine, which has a great personality, with a wide range of tannins to go with lively acidity and lingering fruit. Overall, a well-balanced wine with a long, lingering aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"The Talenti 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is a wine of above-average intensity that consistently impresses with its dark aromas of blackcurrant, pitted plum, floral earth and a pungent fragrance reminiscent of black baccara rose. It is a rich and open Brunello with velvety tannins and a full-bodied mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

"The project is based on Pierluigi's vision, which Riccardo brings to the full expression of the south-west quadrant of the DOCG. On the nose, notes of red plums, star anise and hints of wild rosemary. Juicy mouthfeel, with perfectly integrated tannins and hints of sweet spices." Luca Gardini

Rich, dark shimmering ruby colour. Open-hearted, dense bouquet of blackberry, plums and a delicate hint of clove in the background. Juicy flavour, shows supple tannins, spreads out beautifully. A great Chianti Classico every year with an exemplary price/quality ratio. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium ruby red colour; subtly fruity, spicy; juicy, fruity, fine tart tannins." Merum

"Medium garnet red colour. Both savoury and sweetly fruity. Firm tannin on the palate, with a fresh, savoury Sangiovese bite. Pronounced freshness, a penetrating depth, gentle tannins. Long and valuable with ageing potential." Jancis Robinson

"The Chianti Classico Brolio 2021 is a light blend of 95% Sangiovese and 5% Colorino and immediately shows a light and bright personality. It offers an attractive, powerful attack with plenty of cherry, blue flowers and pressed violet, followed by subtle mineral shadings." Wine Advocate

"Light ruby red colour. Animating aroma of cherry, raspberry and blackberry, with a spicy finish. Juicy on the palate with compact fruit, fine tannins and great length." Falstaff

"Beautiful flavours of sweet berries and orange peel that fade into a medium to full body with crisp fruit and a stony undertone. Another year in the bottle will make it even better." James Suckling

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

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

Vigna Istine is marvellous. Dark cherry, spices, leather and tobacco unfold in the glass. An incredibly creamy personality and breadth on the palate. With its flavour profile of lavender, spices, leather, menthol and liquorice, Vigna Istine has an indescribable richness of facets. The high-altitude vineyard, planted between 480 and 550 metres above sea level, provides freshness, aromatic intensity, mineral notes and exciting ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna Istine is laced with hints of lavender, mint, blue/purplish fruit and spice. This offers a striking interplay of Radda energy with a bit more mid-palate richness and overall textural intensity than the Casanova dell’Aia. This is such a vibrant, explosive wine." Vinous

Since Guidalberto has been vinified from its own grapes, most of which also grow in the Sassicaia DOC monopoly position, San Guido's "second wine" has grown beyond itself. Spicy, earthy bouquet with hints of tobacco, clove and lavender, dense and juicy on the palate with fresh red and black berry fruit. The tannins are well balanced and the finish is complex with a majestic elegance that will become even more refined with years of ageing in the bottle. SUPERIORE.DE

"Concentrated and dense, with dark fruit flavors of blackberry, blueberry and black currant, this red also reveals black olive and iron accents. The tannins clamp down for now, yet this is balanced overall, with everything well-proportioned." Wine Spectator

"Aromas of blackcurrants, dark cherries, chocolate, ground spices and crushed rocks. Medium to full-bodied with compact but supple and polished tannins. Spicy notes with hints of dried mushrooms and chocolate. Attractive with a lingering finish." James Suckling

"The Guidalberto 2021, an assemblage of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot from San Guido, is soft, juicy and seductive right from the start. The supple contours of the Merlot lend fleshiness to this medium-bodied, racy Maremma blend. Ripe red cherry fruit, spice, leather and tobacco are beautifully brought to the fore. Best of all, the 2021 will be easy to drink right from the start." Vinous

"The Tenuta San Guido 2021 Guidalberto, a classic blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, shows tart cherry fruit with dark blackberry and plum tones. This vintage delivers particularly edgy and focussed fruit characteristics, elegantly framed by light spice, cola and earth. This vintage shows a heightened sense of intensity and territorial identity that is the hallmark of this storied winery." Wine Advocate

"Sparkling, intense ruby-purple colour. Opens with appealing notes of mint, blackberry and mulberry, with spicy cedar wood in the background. Fine-meshed, polished tannins characterise the palate, present, clear fruit, beautiful drinking flow." Falstaff

"According to Carlo Paoli, the winemaking director of Tenuta San Guido, the 2021 is the best Guidalberto he has ever produced. The proportion of Merlot was reduced to the typical 40% this year because the quality of the Cabernet Sauvignon was so good. The Guidalberto 2021 has a very deep colour, almost black with a narrow purple rim. It took about an hour to really open up, but then it had a wonderful range of aromas and flavours. Notes of cassis and blueberries, blue flowers, violets and iris are followed by a palate full of perfectly ripe blackberries and blueberries enveloped in smooth, creamy flavours. A wine of velvety richness balanced by vibrant acidity, with very pure, concentrated aromas and flavours. Delicious!" Decanter

"This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, which has now undergone a refined stylistic redesign, also stands out: a wine with a nose of blackberries, with notes of Mediterranean scrub and rhubarb, then nuances of eucalyptus. Taut and crisp, with spicy tannins, juicy and beautifully persistent." Luca Gardini

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

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

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

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

Madre is an elegant and at the same time juicy cuvée of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon matured in barriques. Its rich, slightly tobacco and leather-tinged bouquet and impressive, lasting body give it great independence and character. SUPERIORE.DE

"Plums, berries, dried herbs and mushrooms on the nose. Full-bodied with fine tannins. Supple, with a velvety texture in the mouth. Spicy character on the long, savoury finish. Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon. Already very attractive." James Suckling

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

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

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

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

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

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

Medium, bright ruby red colour. The bouquet and flavour are dominated by interesting notes of fresh cut flowers, sweet red berries, liquorice, mint, pine and cedar wood. As the wine progresses, the Chianti Classico reveals a marvellous precision and spiciness, which is enveloped by a well-measured extract sweetness. The overall impression is one of grace and an open-hearted style, which impresses with all its components and not least with its typical Radda Sangiovese freshness from the high altitudes of the Chianti Classico. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red colour. Multi-faceted nose, pleasant cherry and blueberry fruit, followed by pepper and tobacco. The fruit also predominates on the palate, paired with stimulating acidity and a mineral finish." Falstaff

"The 2022 Chianti Classico is a lovely wine from Volpaia. Aromatic, light on its feet and gracious, the Chianti Classico here is a consistently fine example of Radda. Clean mineral notes shape this bright, taut offering. A burst of red fruit, chalk, white pepper and mint lingers on the finish." Vinous

"A delicious, well-rounded and velvety Chianti Classico with aromas of strawberries, raspberries and mild spices. Medium-bodied with finely grained tannins and texture. Juicy and velvety with elegance and a pure character. Fresh and delicious finish." James Suckling