wine classics

Deep ruby red, intense, fresh aroma of dark fruit with delicate roasted flavours. Complex and full-bodied on the palate, full-bodied, with balsamic notes, perfectly integrated tannins and a finely balanced fruity-spicy finish. An intense wine that doesn't want to be a lightweight and which shows off its power perfectly. SUPERIORE.DE

"In colour, the 2021 appears less dark and viscous than usual. The nose is deep and spicy, with a chocolaty richness, a lot of Merlot presence and aromas of bay leaf, rosemary and incense, as well as banana peel. Very youthful, reductive and full-bodied, very dense in the mouth, with seemingly blunt tannins, firmly fleshed out. The all-encompassing sweetness masks the subtle brittleness in its youth. Wiry acidity, a lot of tannin presence, plenty of wood and very little melting." Weinwisser

"Brilliant and impenetrable purple colour. Lifted, vibrant cassis, blackberry and blueberry flavours with a hint of dusty oak. Juicy and finely moulded around the cassis and blackberry fruit, with gripping tannins that need more time to settle. The whole clearly expresses the excellence of this vintage." Jancis Robinson

"The Orma 2021 is a rich, heady wine. Juicy dark red plums, spice, new leather, mocha and menthol are beautifully interwoven. This lush, flamboyant wine offers a lot of immediacy and appeal." Vinous

"This wine is heady and voluptuous with a bouquet that brings out black fruits, plums, spices and floral notes of lilac and blue flowers. These flavours are released in waves of varying intensity. It is a proverbial food wine that calls for a dish with a high fat content. The freshness is there and it has a considerable fruit weight". Wine Advocate

"This red is broad and dense yet lively, with flavours of plum, blackberry, vanilla and chocolate shaded by toasted oak. A hint of rose lingers fresh and focused on the long, gripping finish. Balanced and complex." Wine Spectator

"Aromas of herbs such as basil and laurel with blackcurrants are followed by a full body with creamy and round tannins and many undertones of coffee beans and walnuts. Powerful, but not over the top. Velvety texture. Fine on the finish." James Suckling

"Spicy, brambly berry aromas with some dusty wood and chocolate notes are followed in the mouth by super-fresh acidity, introducing some ripe black fruits then a stony mid-palate. A fine web of silky tannins supports the fruit, while herbal and balsamic edges bring a sense of freshness and levity to the concentrated fruit. The finish is long, succulent and fresh, with some fresh and dried black fruits accompanied by spice and chocolate. Great balance." Decanter

"Bright ruby violet colour. Fragrant, floral, of wild berries and light-coloured resin, cassis, expressive, pure, inviting. Powerful on the palate, with lots of tannin, vibrant, finely juicy, currently still very young, will develop very well." Falstaff

"The great classic of the house, now a staple of the type. Blueberry notes on the nose, a hint of marjoram, cloves on the finish with a slight hint of undergrowth. Crisp and exciting on the palate, with salty-sour tannins, persistent and again with small black fruits." Luca Gardini

Deep dark ruby-purple colour. On the nose, cassis, blackcurrants and a strong herbal spice with a good dose of pipe tobacco, tar and crushed gravel. On the palate, dark berries, chocolate and a cornucopia of herbs define the full-bodied palate. This juicy wine monument has precisely integrated tannins, an enormous silkiness and an almost endless finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, intense colour. Rich, sweet and chocolaty, the Oreno smells of rum pot and shows a beautiful fullness, yet the wood shines through a little, as the core flavour is still underdeveloped. Sweet, broad and compact, it appears in the mouth with a lot of substance and core, with an equally concentrated centre. The powerful tannins are arranged in a straightforward manner, accompanied by a fine woody shimmer and good texture." Weinwisser

"A juicy red characterised by blueberries, boysenberries, cassis, wild herbs and oak spices. It shows a range of dusty tannins that have a firm grip on the compact finish, but it has freshness, plenty of fruit and persistence." Wine Spectator

"Fruity, floral aromas of dried cherries, raspberries and violets on the nose segue into spicy notes of pencil shavings and hot tar, before more mixed berries overlay spicy, earthy notes on the palate, with a hint of orange pith providing astringency on the long, umami-rich finish." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2021 Oreno richly concentrated aromas to match. You get black fruit, toasted barbecue spice, mahogany and smoke. There are pronounced herbal notes with grilled sage and rosemary. This wine definitely embraces a full-bodied, old-school style that is heavily influenced by Bordeaux." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 Oreno is great. In fact, the 2021 is one of the best Orenos I can remember tasting. Aromatic, rich and deep, with tonnes of textural resonance, the 2021 has so much to offer. Scents of tobacco, espresso, spice, new leather and spice open up first, leading to waves of dark, resonant fruit that build over time. Impressive. This is a particularly heady, flamboyant Tuscan red wine. A style that works very well in 2021." Vinous

"Dark blackberry fruit and intense floral and spicy aromas, liquorice and olives with nuances of blueberries and roses. The tannins are grippy but give direction rather than being heavy or broad. On the palate, it remains quite straightforward, persistently in line from start to finish. I love the juiciness, the strawberry juice with herbal accents and clean, ferruginous minerality that comes across as slightly tangy and savoury on the finish, lingering with a zesty olive note." Decanter

"Bright ruby violet colour. Opens with an elegant nose, notes of elderberries, chocolate, stewed blackberries, some liquorice. Present on the palate, with nerve, grippy but very energetic, clean tannins, full-bodied, long, juicy finish lasting many minutes." Falstaff

"Blackcurrants and black cherries with beautiful flowers on the nose. Medium-bodied with ultra-fine tannins that give the wine focus and tension. Pretty and balanced. A little shy now." James Suckling

"Unique location, south-facing vineyards in the river basin of the same name. Taut nose, blackberry, eucalyptus, pink pepper and capers, peony and balsamic finish. Dense on the palate, crisp, spicy tannins, fresh citrus flavours with a long, drinkable finish." Luca Gardini

Caparzos Riserva 2019 is a big, powerful wine that needs at least a few years to mature. Dark and brooding, this Riserva shows the more masculine side of Sangiovese. Black cherry, plum, leather, spices and tobacco lie on a firm beam of acidity and tannin. This red has the explosive energy and finesse of the dream vintage 2019 and it will take some time to mature until all the facets of this highly personal wine come together - but as always with top wines: patience is rewarded! SUPERIORE.DE

"Still youthfully restrained, the nose flirts with cedar, leather and heather, then the palate changes gear with its overtly powerful drive of substantial yet sophisticated chalky tannins and brisk acidity. By comparison, subtle flavours of wet stone and polished red cherry seem polite and tame for the time being. This will need time to develop into its full expression." Decanter

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva opens with a mentholated freshness, blending crushed rocks and mint with hints of tobacco, flowery underbrush and dried black cherries. Silken and serene, this displays notable weight and concentration while maintaining freshness. Waves of texturally ripe wild berry fruits. and fine-grained tannins cake the senses. The 2019 finishes with dramatic length and structure, leaving a tinge of licorice to linger on." Vinous

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva makes a terrific first impression thanks to the intensity of its dark fruit aromas and its well-integrated spice. This is a full-bodied wine with deep layers of richness and velvety tannins. There is a hint of concentrated fruit sourness (and sweetness too, from the grape skins) that will subside as this takes on more age in the cellar." Wine Advocate

"Restrained, vibrant and fruity riserva with red cherries and raspberries, potpourri and even incense. Medium- to full-bodied with leafy flavor, velvety and ripe tannins yet chewy acidity and a chalky finish. Good blood-orange aftertaste. Better in two or three years but already so delicious." James Suckling

The single vineyard Serradenari is currently the highest in the Barolo area and is also the historic site of the appellation (MGA - Menzione Geografica Aggiuntiva). The cool and mountainous climate with its clay and marl soils gives rise to a Nebbiolo that makes few words - it is precise, clear and unambiguous.

All the more exciting when the result opens up with some aeration and maturity and reveals its full range of sensuality and loveliness. An impressive wine that leaves little to be desired in terms of finesse and clarity, were it not for the one or two secrets that lie dormant here, which only reveal themselves when you fully indulge in this aristocratic growth. SUPERIORE.DE

"Elegant and wafting, the wine is shaped by the combination of wild cherries and savory herbs. Subtle notes of dried wildflowers and forest floor fill the glass as the wine develops. On the palate, sour red fruits burst forth, backed by an abundance of acidity, yet intermingled with an umami rich background that are shaped by elegant tannins that reveal an earthy and lifted finish." Wine Enthusiast

"Very pale ruby color. Pomegranate, red currants, fresh violets and a citrus character of lemons and grapefruit. The palate is firm but relaxed, with a medium body, dusty ripe tannins and crisp acidity. It will develop complexity with aging." James Suckling

Chianti Classico by Giovanni Manetti offers a profound, densely woven and still very youthful bouquet of dark and red berries and fine spicy notes. The dry, cherry flavour with long-lasting impressions, well-extracted tannins and the acidity typical of Sangiovese show a clearly recognisable terroir character. Very clear, straightforward, long, always fresh and juicy, with excellent strength and balance. SUPERIORE.DE

"Elegant, shiny ruby red colour with a dark core. Intense and memorable nose of black cherry, dark chocolate and a hint of mocha. Silky tannins, concentrated fruit and fine acidity on the palate, with a grippy final." Falstaff

"Deep carmine red colour. Tantalising nose of deep red fruits with hints of white pepper and leather. Juicy red fruits, with fine-grained, abundant tannins that unfold on the finish." Jancis Robinson

"The organic Fontodi 2021 Chianti Classico shows a special density in this vintage. There are ripe fruit flavours with blackberries and plums. The fruit also has a rich fleshiness or thickness that contributes to the overall dimension and mouthfeel of this approachable wine. The bright acidity brings out all these elements even better." Wine Advocate

"Fontodi's 2021 is a symbol of the exceptional quality of Chianti Classico at the Annata level. It exudes the wild, rugged and dry Tuscan landscape against a backdrop of dark, multi-layered fruit. Hints of coffee and liquorice mingle with concentrated black cherry and blackberry. With ripe, gravelly tannins, this wine shows the power of the vintage without being overbearing, retaining its charismatic energy. It's worth waiting a few more months before drinking, but if cellared properly, it can easily impress for a decade." Decanter

"The 2021 Chianti Classico is a classic wine from the estate, made in the restrained style that has become the norm here of late. There is plenty of richness from Panzano, but more energy and less heaviness than was the norm a few years ago. Giovanni Manetti and his team have given the Chianti Classico a wonderful sophistication. Spices, flowers, mocha and blue fruits linger, all wrapped in extremely fine tannins." Vinous

"This red wine combines the fruity and spicy side of Sangiovese and shows flavours of cherries and blackberries, accompanied by eucalyptus, juniper and wild rosemary. Lively and fluid, with tension in the complex, mineral aftertaste." Wine Spectator

Michele Chiarlo's Barbaresco Asili comes from vines that are around 30 years old and has a fragrant bouquet with bright and fresh aromas of wild cherry, blackcurrant, raspberry, blue flowers and crushed stone. This vintage shows a level of energy and vitality that makes it stand out from the crowd, and the wine is elegant and silky in texture. This is a particularly soft and polished expression of the famous Asili vineyard in Barbaresco. SUPERIORE.DE

"It is very fresh and racy with red and blue berries, crushed violets, lavender and walnuts. It is medium-bodied, structured and fleshy with solid tannins that are ripe and velvety, yet give the wine a firm backbone. The fruit is lively and pronounced with lots of floral and spicy notes." James Suckling

"The Michele Chiarlo 2020 Barbaresco Asili comes from one of the most famous vineyards in the appellation and offers more flavour and depth alongside the Barbaresco Faset. The two wines complement each other very well, with the Faset showing more primary fruit and the Asili more texture." Wine Advocate

"The beauty of the Chiarlo Barbarescos is how they coax such beautiful aromas out of their wines, and this wine is no exception with captivating aromas of Marasca cherries, macerated raspberries, wild rose and bay leaf. Pristine flavors of wild red-berry preserves, sweet tea and cedar finishing with elegant tannins and crisp acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"From the very first moments of fermentation of this wine, we realise every year that we are dealing with a very high expression of Nebbiolo. The MGA Albesani is a very beautiful vineyard in the municipality of Neive with an ideal orientation and perfect altitude. From there comes a rich, elegant, sometimes austere wine that combines its great appeal with excellent ageing potential." Franco Massolino

Barbaresco Albesani shows all the breadth and resonance that is so typical of this famous hillside vineyard in Neive. Red-purple fruit, spices, rose petals, lavender, menthol and liquorice develop with a little time in the glass. Bright acids and lively tannins give this classic, inviting Barbaresco from Massolino plenty of energy and persistence. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium garnet red with ruby reflections and a brightening rim. Fine and elegant nose of raspberries and strawberries, some sour cherry and pomegranate as well as a hint of forest floor. Very fresh and juicy on the palate with polished and gripping tannins and a spicy final." Falstaff

"Firm and structured, this wine offers dark, ripe fruit that commands attention while aromas of blue violets lead deeper into the glass. Juicy dark cherries form the core of the palate, while drying blackberries and a hint of plum linger over the firm and tannic palate, lifted by mouthwatering acidity. Elegant and spicy flavours offer a respite from the abundance of fruit on the finish." Wine Enthusiast

"The Barbaresco Albesani 2021 is a super-classic wine that needs time to develop. It has a remarkable structure and the unobtrusive depth typical of Barbaresco. With time in the glass, aromas of herbs, white pepper, autumn leaves and spices emerge. All it needs is time in the bottle." Vinous

"The Massolino 2021 Barbaresco Albesani shows redcurrant and tart berry aromas. It also has a hint of something metallic with rusty nail or tin can. The wine reveals a fluid personality with a few exciting aromatic changes along the way. That versatility bodes well for its future evolution." Wine Advocate

"Bright and fresh with notes of red berries, dried rosehips and asphalt. Medium-bodied. It has a fleshy structure with very fine tannins and bright acidity. Shows tension and focus. Spicy on the finish. Try after 2026." James Suckling

Bright garnet red with a copper-coloured rim. Fine olfactory cinema of red fruits and sea buckthorn. In addition, forest earth paired with a hint of tobacco and bitter almond. In the glass still young, initially loud tannins, with some air then softer tones and a powerful, lasting final. An elegant, aristocratic wine that leaves a lasting impression not only on the first glass. SUPERIORE.DE

"This red has a warm, brambly, woodsy quality that downplays the muted fruit. Boasts burly tannins, with a spicy, complex finish. Shows the more muscular side of Barbaresco." Wine Spectator

"Notes of raspberries and plum skins with walnuts, bark, ground spices and damp earth. Polished and a little chewy with medium to full body and chalky texture of the tannins. Firm and consistent. Straightforward finish." James Suckling

"The 2020 Barbaresco Cottá shows an austere character with pronounced rust or iodine aromas intermingled with dark fruits and dried cherries. The wine has a generous, medium-weight texture that offers a good amount of firmness to the palate. Give this pretty wine a little more time to develop." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 Barbaresco Cottá is dense, powerful and self-contained. Black cherry, plum, spice, menthol, mocha and earthiness contribute to an impression of gravitas. Huge tannins add plenty of structure to this powerful, brooding wine. This impressive young Barbaresco needs time." Vinous

Do you know the small vineyard Basarin near Neive? A bright ruby garnet awaits you and a wine from a particularly beautiful vintage: on the nose, a cornucopia of aromas of wild sour cherry, herbs, some liquorice and tobacco. Firm and very clearly structured on the palate, muscular and yet with an elegance that never loses control due to its power. Basarin is a highly energetic and precise Nebbiolo that reveals its complexity only with some patience and aeration. The neighbouring terroir Neive shows itself with distinguished elegance and marries harmoniously with the volume and weight typical of the site - and in a depth that only vines over 50 years old can produce. SUPERIORE.DE

"A dense red, solidly built and displaying mint, eucalyptus, vanilla and resin flavors, while berry and cherry fruit elements struggle to emerge. Despite its freshness and length, this is locked up tight." Wine Spectator

"The Barbaresco Basarin 2020 with fruit from the village of Neive is a generous and full-bodied wine with soft fruit tones and lots of powerful cherry. Sottimano Maggiore likes to work with ambient yeasts and submerged cap. This is a fruit-driven Nebbiolo from a warm vintage. It shows above average concentration, but not much, and feels quite soft and supple on the palate." Wine Advocate

"The Barbaresco Basarin 2020 is a wine of pure and perfect sensuality. For a young Barbaresco that has just been bottled, the Basarin has great balance. On the palate, a firework of dark red fruits, spices, rose petals, mint and blood orange unfolds, followed by a powerful kick of Nebbiolo acidity and tannin. The harvestmust be patient. This heady, explosive Barbaresco is shaping up to be a real gem." Vinous

"Aromas of dried cherries, cocoa, cinnamon and bark with hints of dried rose petals. Medium to full-bodied and structured with taut but fine tannins that linger. Shows tension and depth. Long lingering finish." James Suckling

The grapes for the exceptionally deep Vigna del Gris come from vines over 40 years old from the 1-hectare plot of the same name in Monforte d'Alba. The bouquet is beguilingly harmonious, with a convincing attack, weightless and powerful at the same time. Firm tannins and plenty of flavour on the palate, with a great texture and very juicy. Long, rich finish. Don't make the mistake of opening this wine until it has gained in maturity, personality and elegance after a few more years in the bottle. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2019 Barolo Ginestra Vigna del Gris is another great wine from Conterno-Fantino. Crushed flowers, cedar wood, pipe tobacco, mint, dried flowers and worn leather give the 2019 an impressive aromatic presence. Fabio Conterno has also managed to tame the tannins of the Monforte here. The Gris is really impressive. I would drink it before the other 2019s." Vinous

"Offers attractive notes of cherry and raspberry as well as flavours of iron, tar and undergrowth, wrapped in an embrace of toasted oak. Overall, this red wine is balanced, and the fruit should develop over the next decade as all the elements integrate. Long, resonant finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Barolo Ginestra Vigna del Gris is very robust and powerful on the nose. It needs more time in the bottle to develop and overcome its youthful phase. This wine is definitely ready to give more to those who wait. It opens with a dark garnet colour and ripe aromas of cherries, plums, roses and orange peel. After a few minutes, additional spices and nutmeg emerge. The tannins are still grippy." Wine Advocate

"Notes of red berries, crushed herbs and orange blossom with hints of lilac and wet stones. Medium to full-bodied. Fleshy and mouth-filling with polished tannins. Refined and supple. A hint of slightly bitter spices on the finish." James Suckling

Here comes the second vintage of Barbara Widmer's Chianti Classico Gran Selezione. It is vinified from the estate's best Sangiovese grapes, all of which come from clay soils at an altitude of around 200 metres. Complex and very aromatic bouquet with notes of red fruit, herbs, leather and liquorice, rounded off with a fine toasted note. Multi-layered and radiant on the palate, yet never opulent or broad, the well-balanced tannins guide it into a deep and refined finish. Even at a young age, Brancaia's Gran Selezione combines the unmistakably aristocratic style of a pure Sangiovese with impressive elegance. SUPERIORE.DE

"As so often, scores with a fine balance of fruit and appropriate use of wood and shows a compact core, vitality and a fine acidity; then goes on for a long time with red berry fruit and mineral spice." Weinwisser

"Sparkling ruby red colour, slight edge brightening. Complex on the nose, sour cherry, cigar box, subtle ethereal notes, reminiscent of eucalyptus. Elegant, prancing on the palate, vibrant acidity, silky tannins, lots of herbs towards the end, lingering finish." Falstaff

"This is another impressive organic wine from the talented winemaking team at Brancaia and owner Barbara Widmer. The 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione is rich and endowed with dark cherry, spice, clove and grilled herbs. This vintage is a real pleasure to drink straight away." Wine Advocate

"Captivating bouquet of berries and lilac, casually accompanied by spicy notes; the attack is pithy, the lively acidity and excellent tannins well balanced, the finish long on notes of fresh currants and lots of suppleness. Can still mature." Vinum

"Notes of ripe cherries and redcurrants with savoury herbs, ground spices and crushed stones. Full and structured with dense and compact tannins that are ripe and well integrated into the wine. Refreshed by a consistent acidity that gives it crispness and emphasises the red fruits. I like the texture and length of the wine." James Suckling

The sandy soils north of Monforte d'Alba give this Barolo its immense power and structure. The bouquet is very open and appealing with dark cherries and raspberries, as well as notes of mint, cedar wood, rose petals and sage. Very lively and expressive on the palate, with deep beauty, seamlessly contoured and spectacular resonance. A fabulous wine from a very good vintage, classic and exotic at the same time. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intriguing bouquet with notes of cherries, leather, with a touch of sage flavours; juicy, harmonious texture with finely chiselled tannins, finishes long and multi-layered. Pleasing with its elegant style and character." Vinum

"Presents cherry, raspberry, sun-kissed hay, mineral and spice aromas and flavors that curl around an acidic spine and tannins. This has all the right components, matched to a slim, taut frame, with fine length." Wine Spectator

"Fresh and vibrant with red berry, blood orange, crushed hazelnut, hibiscus and spice aromas and flavors. Medium- to full-bodied, tense and linear with a backbone of firm, finely grained tannins and steady minerality. Needs some time. Try after 2027." James Suckling

"The Conterno Fantino 2019 Barolo Castelletto Vigna Pressenda is medium dark and more concentrated compared to many of its peers. This wine shows a solid bouquet with fixed aromas of wild cherry, long-stemmed rose and candied orange. With time, even more floral aromas are coaxed forward from the bouquet. Beyond those are oak-driven notes of allspice and cinnamon. The tannins are polished, and the wine offers quite a bit of fruit texture." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Barolo Castelletto Vigna Pressenda is gorgeous. Delicate and perfumed in the glass, the 2019 offers up a beguiling mélange of dark red cherry, rose petal, mint, cedar, blood orange, spice and crushed autumn leaves. In 2019, the Monforte tannins are especially refined, something that is very rarely the case here at this stage. What a wonderfully precise, sophisticated, nuanced wine this is. Impressive." Vinous

The De Ferrari brothers select their Riserva from the oldest vines on the estate's best plots. Ruby red in colour with a garnet hue. The wine opens discreetly with subtle but captivating hints of sage, leather and allspice. On the palate, it is supple and agile and feels confidently extracted, with firm, straightforward tannins, but not overdone. The wood supports rather than imposes on the wine, and the vibrant acidity of the vintage comes through nicely. Long, seductive and delicately spicy on the final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense, sparkling ruby red colour. Hints of leather and ripe fruit on the nose, followed by notes of wood and marzipan. Elegant tannins on the palate with a slightly ethereal finish." Falstaff

"Charismatic aromas of red berries, tobacco and leather; elegant, balanced, the tannins perfectly integrated and supported by a lively acidity, convincing with its classic style." Vinum

"Dusty cedar spice box and dried flower notes give way to hints of black cherry and white smoke as the 2020 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Riserva slowly blossoms in the glass. It washes across the palate with ripe red and blue fruit tones, a core of saline minerality and brisk acidity that creates a push and pull of tension. The 2020 finishes long and staining, with silty tannins and a bitter blackberry and licorice concentration that lingers on." Vinous

"A slightly viscous Vino Nobile with the character of berries, bark and dried mushrooms. Full-bodied with some fresh acidity under the tannin backbone." James Suckling

"Mint and eucalyptus shade the cherry and strawberry fruit in this lean but solid red wine, which has an underlying minerality. Balanced, this wine needs time to fully integrate all the elements, but there is still a very positive energy that drives the long finish." Wine Spectator

G.D. Vajra's Ravera (whose vineyard extends over the municipalities of Novello and Barolo) is always the most angular, powerful and vertical of their collection. It comes from soils with clay and sandstone at 320 to 340 metres above sea level. This is the ideal place for wines that show both power and elegance. The tannins are sweet, but every fibre of the backbone is dense and firm. Red and purple fruits with liquorice, tar and white truffle are neatly packaged here and only reveal themselves gradually, but then with beautiful precision and straightforwardness. The final has a wonderfully long aftertaste, superb! SUPERIORE.DE

"Aromas of ripe raspberries, sour cherries and blue berries, framed by a smoky floral note. In the mouth, it is still grippy and compact, but shows more and more finesse with air. A beautiful mix of classic and modern, which characterises the style of the estate." Weinwisser

"Intense, sparkling garnet red colour with a fine shimmer. Very clear and dense, flavours of ripe wild raspberries, some blackberries, roses and a little tar in the background. Polished and juicy at the attack and on the palate, showing fine-meshed tannins in many layers, still a little rough on the final." Falstaff

"Powerful and muscular. Lots of tannin. Needs time!" Jancis Robinson

"A very appealing nose with slightly resinous black fruits, pine, laurel and balsamic vinegar, with chewy tannins, an expressive palate and great length." Decanter

"A dense, compact version with cherry and raspberry fruit underlined by notes of hay, thyme, iron and tobacco. Straightforward and lively, with mouth-filling tannins framing the finish, this wine needs time to unify all its elements." Wine Spectator

"The Barolo Ravera 2020 is a beautiful, aromatically exotic wine that needs time to show its best side. Orange peel, spice, menthol and cherry brandy rise from the glass and impart a lot of ethereal Nebbiolo beauty before the tannins kick in. The wine has wonderful richness and substance, very much in the style of this year's mid-weight wines. More than anything, I admire the balance." Vinous

"Blood orange, spicy plum and cloves with a hint of fir fruit and white pepper. On the palate, tight, chalky tannins with a structured, full body and a savoury, exciting finish. Long, complex, austere and expansive." James Suckling

"The Ravera vineyard, one of the winery's most valuable estates, is known for its chalky soil and old vines, which give the wine depth and ageing potential. This Barolo shows crushed raspberries and redcurrants mingling with wild thyme and fresh laurel. Subtle notes of cinchona bark, whole cinnamon and fresh porcini mushrooms add complexity. On the palate, the warmed jam of mixed berries is blended with crushed cloves, pepper and earthy notes of truffle and undergrowth. Fine and elegant tannins provide structure, while the balanced warmth envelops the senses like a comforting embrace." Wine Enthusiast

The sandy soils north of Monforte d'Alba give this Barolo its immense power and structure. The bouquet is very open and appealing with dark cherries and raspberries, as well as notes of mint, cedar wood, rose petals and sage. Very lively and expressive on the palate, with deep beauty, seamlessly contoured and spectacular resonance. A fabulous wine from a very good vintage, classic and exotic at the same time. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Conterno Fantino 2020 Barolo Castelletto Vigna Pressenda shows rich dark fruits, liquorice, spa cedar and sweet oak spice. On the palate, it shows a certain richness with a hint of vanilla extract, with sweet blueberry cream and cherry pie. The tannins have a slight toasted note, but remain fine-grained and well-integrated overall." Wine Advocate

"The Barolo Castelletto Vigna Pressenda 2020 is a delicate, elegant wine. Crushed rose petals, orange peel, white pepper, mint and crushed stones adorn this marvellous, translucent Barolo. All the elements are very well balanced. It has a crystalline purity that is simply beguiling. It is the most ethereal and perfumed of the Barolos here. The 2020 is simply great." Vinous

"Clearly defined fruit flavors give this red accessibility. Cherry, strawberry, raspberry, hibiscus, earth and menthol notes are backed by a dense matrix of tannins. A fresh version, with a long, complex finish." Wine Spectator

"One of the richer, rounder and more mouth-filling Barolos. This expansive wine fills its beautifully firm structure with intricate layers of red cherry, orange peel, raspberry and cedar. Although full-bodied and broad in texture, it has the characteristic fine-grained tannins that only get better with time." James Suckling

The grapes for the exceptionally deep Vigna del Gris come from vines over 40 years old from the 1-hectare plot of the same name in Monforte d'Alba. The bouquet is beguilingly harmonious, with a convincing attack, weightless and powerful at the same time. Firm tannins and plenty of flavour on the palate, with a great texture and very juicy. Long, rich finish. Don't make the mistake of opening this wine until it has gained in maturity, personality and elegance after a few more years in the bottle. SUPERIORE.DE

"Exudes an aroma of stone fruit, red flowers and leather; robust structure; the tannins have great potential, characterful evolution, persistent finish. Full of greatness and race, but still needs to mature." Vinum

"Expressive bouquet with red fruits, wild cherry, pomegranate, orange peel. On the palate, grippy, with crisp red fruit, energetic, very precisely woven, fine granular tannins. Juicy, elegant and distinguished. Also convincing this year." Weinwisser

"Packed with cherry, raspberry, floral and mineral flavors, this red is graceful yet backed by a base of dense tannins. Supple and fluid, with fine balance, plus a light, spicy underpinning. Excellent length." Wine Spectator

"The Barolo Ginestra Vigna del Gris 2020 shows ripe fruit, dried cherry skin, plum, oak spice, medicinal cherry or cola, classic baking spice and coconut flakes. It's very fruity on the palate, and it won't disappear quickly, so there's still some room for ageing. The acidity and tannins are balanced, only the oak is a little too present. Give it time." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 Barolo Ginestra Vigna del Gris is rich and resonant in this tasting. As has been the case for several years, the Vigna del Gris is characterised by fine tannins, probably a result of older vines and more favourable weather conditions for cooler sites like this one. The Vigna del Gris in this tasting is very expressive, dark and full-bodied, with a marvellous depth of texture. It is another impeccable wine from Conterno-Fantino. Plum, blood orange, chalk and white pepper linger on the lingering finish." Vinous

"A pretty, multi-layered aroma and an elegant, lively palate come together in this structured, complex and age-worthy wine. Balsam, rose petals, violets and cinnamon meet biting sour cherry, raspberry and star anise on the palate." James Suckling

Black cherry fruit, smoke, wild herbs, liquorice and tar form a compelling backdrop of aromas, flavours and textures as this dazzling, powerful Barolo opens up in the glass. The intense final is accompanied by delicate rose petals, lavender and a fine mineral-salty vein. Its stable tannin structure awaits a few more years of ageing in the bottle, as is typically the case with a classic Serralunga Barolo. SUPERIORE.DE

"The bouquet is dominated by forest fruit and wild flower flavours, also fine spice; juicy in the mouth, the tannins noticeable, ends long on notes of plums and liquorice. To accompany a roast beef." Vinum

"Notes of ground spices, nutshells and cedar wood with subtle flavours of red fruits in the background. Medium-bodied, structured and firm. Strong and slightly tart on the finish." James Suckling

"Aromas of cherries, raspberry liqueur, mint and minerals emphasise this taut, dense red wine, which is balanced and has notes of eucalyptus and juniper on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"The Barolo Baudana 2019 offers good power and ripeness with sweet fruit flavours, dark cherry, spices and ferruginous earth. These flavours are characteristic of this vineyard in Serralunga d'Alba. On the palate, the wine is silky and generous, with a salty minerality on the finish." Wine Advocate

"The Baudana, fermented and aged in large oak barrels, shows great complexity and finesse of liquorice root, smoky forest, rose and violet aromas, with wild strawberry and peony in the depths. The palate is firm and acidic, with structured but fine-grained tannins. It has the dustiness typical of Nebbiolo and is super-tart but fierce in character, with a hint of youthful rusticity on the finish. I would age it given its old-fashioned character." Decanter

"Intense, sparkling ruby colour with a slightly light rim. Opens with distinctly fragrant notes of peony, fresh cherries and some strawberry. Juicy on the attack and on the palate, with beautifully emphasised fruit and polished tannins that create firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"Vivid aromas of cherry stand out as the dominant fruit note, harmonizing with abundant mineral and mixed spice characteristics. The palate presents a firm yet giving structure. The chiseled palate offers notes of wildflowers, savory herbs and spices finishing with a persistent minerality." Wine Enthusiast

"The most classic of all house brands, a wine with complexity and finesse. Notes of red plums on the nose, then mentholated notes of eucalyptus, juniper and fresh bay leaves. Juicy and sweet on the palate, with a menthol-fruity finish and a long aftertaste that is rounded off with notes of medicinal herbs." Luca Gardini

"The Barolo Baudana 2019 is absolutely captivating. Exuberant and bright in the glass, with plenty of freshness and remarkable purity of fruit, the Baudana offers generous dark red fruit, spice, leather, cherry, candy, cedar, tobacco and undergrowth. It has enormous depth and exceptional balance. Rose petals, white pepper and chalk add a special touch to the intense, savoury finish." Vinous

Barolo Ravera comes from a single vineyard with vines that are almost 50 years old. In the glass, it impresses with a strong, aromatic opening flavour. Bright, precise and finely chiselled, the Ravera captures everything good that the vintage has to offer. Cherry, sweet mint, candy and expressive floral notes are given an extra kick of inner sweetness by Ravera's natural energy. There is so much to look forward to as the wine develops over the next few years! SUPERIORE.DE

"Beguiling bouquet of dark forest fruits and cherries, herbal notes; precise attack, the tannins extremely fine and silky, the acidity and mineral components provide the balance. Outstanding style!" Vinum

"Dark, sparkling ruby with garnet-coloured tendencies. Elegant, fruity-floral bouquet of roses and ripe wild berries, backed by fine wood spice and meadow herbs. Fine fruit melt on the palate, with a compact fruit core and firm tannins, very exciting and incredibly long." Falstaff

"Brilliant, medium ruby red colour. Raspberry and salty, mineral notes and hints of eucalyptus with aeration. Compact and a little closed, but with sensual acidity leading the cool, fresh fruit. Long, deep, chewy tannins that need a few more years to settle. Great depth of fruit on the finish." Jancis Robinson

"A precise style, more reductive than oxidative, with a rich fruitiness reminiscent of raspberry jam, floral notes, black pepper and liquorice. Fresh, with velvety, slightly chewy tannins in the mid-palate that lead into a chocolaty finish." Decanter

"Gravel stones, raspberries, liquorice and allspice on the nose. It's lively, dense and minerally with a medium to full body and firm, tight and steely tannins. Leave it to mature." James Suckling

"The Elvio Cogno 2020 Barolo Ravera is a lush and fleshy expression with dark fruit, dried cherry, plum, sweet orris root, earth, toast and dark spice. The wine is quite firm, and there is a lovely sense of richness that coats the palate." Wine Advocate

"This aromatic red wine exudes spicy and savoury notes of eucalyptus, juniper, rosehip, bergamot and white pepper. The flavours of cherry, iron and tobacco follow in the long finish." Wine Spectator

"A Barolo with temperament and character. Fresh aromas, nectarine, redcurrant, then laurel, rounded off with nuances of nutmeg. Mouthfeel with citrus sensations, clementine, savoury, taut and crisp, with hints of yellow fruit." Luca Gardini