wine classics

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

"The Guidalberto is made from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot and has its own vines, some of which are inside and some outside the Sassicaia DOC. A very subtle wine with ripe, charming fruit and a velvety texture. It is more elegant and refined than before." Weinwisser

"Gently shining ruby red colour. Multi-layered bouquet, opens on ripe wild berries, redcurrant, notes of juniper, cedar and black pepper, a touch of lilac. Silky attack, precise fruit on very well-integrated, fine tannins, elegant and with gentle pressure in the long final." Falstaff

"The 2022 is full of aromas of herbs and sea breeze amid bright, tangy berries. In the mouth, it is savoury and precise, with a juiciness to the concentrated core of plums and black berries and a gracefulness to the tannin and acidity structures that weave through it. Juicy and incredibly flavoursome, with a wonderfully ripe red berry finish, this wine really stands on its own two feet." Decanter

"Lots of mint with sage and fresh rosemary to go with the redcurrants and oranges on the nose, as well as some ripe raspberries. The palate is very refined with creamy and crisp tannins that run the length of the wine. It shows a crisp and energetic personality. It should be given another year or two to develop, but it is already very good for the vintage." James Suckling

"The Guidalberto 2022 gives you a good taste of the same DNA that gives us one of Italy's greatest wines, Sassicaia, but it is offered here in a more immediate style. This warm vintage opens with a medium-dark concentration and very powerful aromas that immediately remind you of blackberries and blackcurrants lying in the sun at the farmers' market. The wine shows a soft and gentle side with a nice level of elegance conveyed by the freshness of the fruit and the slight oak spice that is noticeable here, but with grace." Wine Advocate

"This red wine is elegant, despite its firm structure and dense tannins. Flavours of black cherry, blackcurrant, plum, tobacco, iron and rosemary hold court, while all components are balanced. The finish is long, with a salty flavour." Wine Spectator

Barolo Brunate comes from the heart of the appellation in La Morra and is one of the most expressive Barolos in Ceretto's single-vineyard collection. The vines are over 50 years old and the total production of the wine is therefore vanishingly small.

Shiny ruby garnet. On the nose, finely balanced aromas of dark cherry, rose blossom, mint and lavender, followed by cassis and plum. More fruit-driven on the palate than its "colleagues", it then impressively shows its origins with its depth and complexity. A red full of personality and character, which will only develop its full potential in the further course of its bottle ageing. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, medium dense ruby garnet, light rim. Presents itself in the nose with emphatically spicy notes, then lots of fresh plum, in the background slightly after ginger. On the palate grippy tannin in many layers, embedded in fine melting, after tobacco, firm pressure in the final." Falstaff

"Lustrous mid ruby with an orange tinge. A hint of oatmeal, a tingle of pepper and concentrated and fresh raspberry fruit with touches of baking spice. Great concentration of raspberry fruit yet really light of touch and bags of crunchy tannins. Long fragrant finish." Jancis Robinson

"A dense, firmly structured red, with black cherry and plum fruit buried beneath tar, menthol and tobacco flavors. Fresh and energetic, ending with grainy tannins and a lightly chewy feel." Wine Spectator

"Sweet red fruit on the nose and palate, together with a sandy mineral note. Medium-to full-bodied with very fine, lightly firm tannins and a clean, focused finish. More delicate character in 2018. Best from 2024." James Suckling

"The organic 2018 Barolo Brunate is angular and firm. Despite the softer character of the vintage, you still feel the tannins and the structure of this celebrated MGA site. There is balsam herb, dried lavender, rose and candied cherry. The wine is generous and round." Wine Advocate

"Despite a moderate acidity - which is due to both the vintage and the southern exposition of Brunate - this Ceretto shows a compelling, delicious character. Liquorice, smoky woodland notes, dried cherry, tar, cinnamon and tea leaf aromas are loaded with red currants and strawberries. Full bodied, it has slightly oaky tannins and a dusty yet ripe finish. Filigreed elegance." Decanter

Ceretto's Barolo Bussia comes from one of the most famous cru sites bordering the municipalities of Monforte d'Alba and Barolo, it draws its Nebbiolo fruit from a 7,000 sqm parcel in Bussia Soprana in Monforte d'Alba. Just 3,500 1/1 bottles and 200 magnums are bottled.

Sparkling, luminous garnet red. On the nose, it seduces with delicate notes of wild berries, white cherry, liquorice and truffle. On the palate, it is explosive, lively and full of energy. Its rich and lively aromas of cranberries and pomegranate are very finely elaborated, impressive its sweetness in the middle of the palate and the fine creaminess and its finely meshed tannin, which is characteristic of the best Bussia Barolos. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium red; intense fruit notes, inviting; dense, powerful, depth of fruit, lots of fine tannin, length." Merum

"Just mid ruby with orange tinges. Spicy, complex and brooding nose with hints of cardamon and stony, minerally hints, which normally come out only after longer bottle ageing. With aeration it shows impressive concentration of cherry fruit with a complex oak hints and a layer of succulent marasca-cherry fruit. Lots of juicy acidity and really light of touch while very long. Fine tannins cling to the fruit." Jancis Robinson

"Rose, violet, camphor and oak-driven spice aromas come to the forefront on this lovely red. Focused and elegant, the vibrant palate features juicy red cherry, pomegranate, licorice and a hint of coconut framed in taut, refined tannins. It's well balanced, with bright acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2018 Bussia sports lovely aromas of crunchy redcurrants, rose petals, animal musk and sandalwood. It's all about finesse and exotic charm, the slim silhouette and textural delicacy strengthened by the mid-weight style of the vintage. Perfumed and expressive, with supple tannins and wafts of oriental spice extending the aftertaste, this is a wonderfully approachable Barolo." Decanter

"Here is a relatively new addition to the Ceretto portfolio (first introduced with the 2015 vintage and made in the years since). The organic 2018 Barolo Bussia has a bright note of sweet cherry or candied orange that frames the wine's generous, open-knit character. There are some dusty earth aromas that add layering and texture to the background." Wine Advocate

"Quite a tight nose for now, but already showing lovely aromas of raspberries, together with perfumed, stony minerals and roses. Full-bodied with a compact palate and an array of firm, spicy tannins that builds steadily through the finish. This is excellent Barolo that’s only just beginning its journey. Tiny production. Cellar it until at least 2025." James Suckling

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

"Radiant, clear ruby red with delicately brightening rim. Slightly lactic nose at the beginning, then of rose petals, rose hips, blood oranges, also of dried tomatoes, sealing wax in the final. Very juicy on the palate entry, opens up with tight tannin, seems very balanced and coherent, keeps coming back, again very juicy on the final." Falstaff

"Lustrous mid ruby. Great depth with hints of white pepper. Minerally notes and fine notes of oatmeal. Succulent sour cherry with super-fine, long tannins. Long and still youthful." Jancis Robinson

"Nice complexity to the nose, showing red cherry, walnut shell and pungent earth. Hints of pressed flowers, too. The palate is medium-bodied with lightly firm, velvety tannins and a very tightly wound core of fruit and tannin at the heart of the wine. The lighter structure is set, reflecting the vintage, but there’s enough going on for positive development with bottle age. Refined feel to this." James Suckling

"The Elvio Cogno 2018 Barolo Ravera is becoming one of the most important wines in Novello, and it performs very nicely in this more challenging vintage. In fact, 2018 helps to cement Ravera's steadfast reputation precisely because it performs so well despite spells of humidity and heat. The wine shows small-berry detailing with rust and crushed stone at the back. There is a point of bitterness that accompanies the tannins of this full-bodied wine." Wine Advocate

"This is alluring for the strawberry, cherry and currant flavors, with details of iron, tar and tobacco. Starts out silky in texture, then the structure sneaks up on you as this red builds to a long finish." Wine Spectator

"Mostly floral aromas of rose, violet and pot pourri, with strawberry and darker fruits allied to the vibrancy of a balsamic whiff, introduce a savoury blood orange flavour on the dense and weighted palate. It has ripe and dusty tannins with great extraction on the mid-palate, crisp acidity and the fruit concentration to achieve an amazing balance. It will gain further complexity with ageing." Decanter

"This beautiful, luminously hued Barolo opens with enticing scents of perfumed berry, dark spice, eucalyptus, violet and forest floor. The savory palate combines elegance and structure, delivering juicy red cherry, raspberry compote, star anise and wild mint framed in taut, refined tannins that give it a smooth but firm texture. Bright acidity keeps energized. What a stunner." Wine Enthusiast

"From the renowned cru of Novello, with southern exposure, an amazing Barolo from one of the historical wine-producer families of this typology. The nose has notes of yellow peach and persimmon, then laurel, closed by nuances of white pepper. Palate with sensations of red orange and pomegranate, very saline and clean, with a return of yellow fruit." Luca Gardini

Until the regulations were changed in 2016, 600 metres was the upper limit for Brunello di Montalcino. The grapes for Passo del Lume Spento come from a single vineyard located on a sandstone plateau at 621 metres above sea level. It displays fresh aromas of lavender and fennel with warm, fragrant earth and a subtle smoky note. The medium-bodied, crisp and sinewy wine tastes of red berries pressed from rocky earth, accompanied by tangy acidity and remarkable freshness. The finish is still primary and mineral, with crisp tannins that give this single-vineyard cru a remarkable bite and great ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Shiny and straight medium ruby red. Concentrated and refined on the nose. Multi-layered. Lots of juicy red fruit, underpinned with super-fine, long tannins. Super-elegant, mineral and long." Jancis Robinson

"A lacy, translucent version, this red displays cherry, plum, earth, underbrush and iron flavors, with a burly presence of tannins guarding the finish. Racy for the vintage, with a strong grip on the salty aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Passo del Lume Spento opens with a mentholated freshness, while crushed stone and minty herbs complicate dusty, dried strawberries. The Brunello di Montalcino Passo del Spento has a juicy character and is incredibly fresh. It shows its minerality in the foreground, while a tart wave of wild berries descends on the palate. The finish is exciting, powerful and primary, with a layer of fine-grained tannins balanced by a hint of residual acidity. This is a spice bomb that nevertheless has the energy to balance." Vinous

"Campinoti's highest single-vineyard bottling comes from a one-hectare plot planted in 2011 at an altitude of 621 metres. The third release as a Brunello, reaching its peak with the 2019 vintage. The aromas are still restrained, but in the mouth, scents of white flowers and roses unfold against a background of sour cherry and pomegranate. The mouth-cleansing tannins are straightforward and the lively acidity drives the wine across the palate. It is lean but not bony and has enough flesh to harmonise the structure. A truly exciting wine with a sinewy, chiselled personality." Decanter

"This wine kisses the sky with fruit from vines planted in 2012 at the highest point of the appellation. This is a wine to keep an eye on in the future, especially as these vines age. The Le Ragnaie 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Passo del Lume Spento has a fine and direct bouquet with vibrant red fruits, cranberries, pressed rose and rosemary flowers. The fruit and floral components are very pronounced, and the earthiness that we find in the other wines is not as pronounced. Instead, it is mineral and salty. Crisp fruit and powdery tannins make for a very long and polished finish with an alcohol content of 13.5 %. This wine is fluid and more of a shape-shifter." Wine Advocate

Brunello di Montalcino Petroso is only produced in the best years and in an extremely limited quantity - just 1,200 bottles of the 2019 vintage will be released onto the market. The exciting bouquet combines rich dark fruits with savoury spices, sage and violets to create a captivating spectacle. Soft and enveloping on the palate, initially quite feminine, with a mix of vibrant acids and minerals giving way to wild berries and pretty inner flowers. This cool, balanced and savoury wine already shows enormous purity and finesse when young, but with its grippy tannins it definitely needs more years to develop fully. With such a limited production, it is a shame that more people will not be able to enjoy this exceptionally beautiful Brunello. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant and just medium ruby red. A little richer on the nose than the Passo del Lume Spento. Perfumed raspberry and cherry with hints of stone. On the palate, it is very elegant and heavy, with fragrant fruit and firm but polished tannins that linger until the end." Jancis Robinson

"This is juicy and expressive, displaying cherry, raspberry, mineral and wild herb flavors. Fresh and harmonious, with bright acidity and well-integrated tannins providing support, this is still a bit tight on the finish, but everything is in the right place." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Petroso offers a dark, rich, inviting blend of black raspberry, mint leaf and worn leather. Silky smooth and elegant to the touch, it flows easily across the palate, presenting crisp red berry fruit enlivened by lively acidity. A wall of grippy tannins lingers as the 2019 rejuvenates primly and intensely, promising many years of further development. I expect the Petroso to gain weight over time, which will round out this otherwise great wine. The potential here is incredibly great." Vinous

"The character of this wine is more approachable and open. The Le Ragnaie 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Petroso is less ethereal and more grounded, with an obvious delivery of fruit (and more primary intensity) framed by caramel, light tobacco leaf, redcurrant, cherry and wild plum. An herbal element also emerges, with white pepper and something fun reminiscent of cashew celery root. The mouthfeel leans towards chalk, and there's a hint of minerality with wet limestone or rose quartz. The tannins are controlled, the texture is medium weight and the finish is very elegant. These qualities give this wine great potential." Wine Advocate

Bright and radiant, with a lot of Nebbiolo character, it is a successful interpretation of the terroir and shows the great class of the winery. Sweet red cherries, tobacco, mint, aniseed and white pepper on the nose. Medium-bodied and graceful on the palate with a good balance of flavour, acidity and structure. With further bottle ageing, it looks set for a great development. SUPERIORE.DE

"A slightly floral nose of more red than black berries with fresh tomato tones, hints of liquorice, barrel wood notes, tar and a hint of tobacco. Tart, still undeveloped fruit, nutty, slightly smoky and hints of cocoa-spicy notes, some bite and youthful, yet fine tannins, persistent on the palate, a little tar and tobacco in the background, herbal nuances, hints of coffee, very good, relatively juicy finish with dark, delicately bitter-chocolatey spice. Still needs a little time." Wein-Plus

"Bright ruby red with a delicately brightening rim and sparkling centre. Inviting nose, smoky and stony, delicate raspberry and some dried rose petal, black tea. Savoury on the palate, with very grippy, youthful tannins and lovely salt, always comes back juicy, still a little young, already drinking well." Falstaff

"A graceful, well-balanced red with a solid construction supporting aromas and flavours of cherry, strawberry, rose and graphite. A hint of tar and white pepper is evident on the finish." Wine Spectator

"A mixture of red berries, including raspberry and currant, combined with allspice and earth-driven spices. The wine is pretty and lifted, with dark cherry flavors on the palate. Superfine tannins give the wine an elegant structure that highlights the chalky mineral notes, leather and tobacco." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2019 Barbaresco Pio Cesare shows a beautiful ruby red colour that goes well with the bright aromas of cassis, pomegranate, liquorice and grilled herbs that emerge from the bouquet. This Barbaresco is lean and silky in texture, and it is already drinking very well." Wine Advocate

"This is a very typical Barbaresco, with a solid core of fruit. Lots of strawberries, cedar wood and chewy tannins. Full and structured. Excellent length, with the tannins coming through at the end. This wine needs at least four or five years of bottle ageing. Try it after 2027." James Suckling

The fruit for this Brunello comes from a 14.4 hectare south-facing vineyard with loamy soils and lots of boulders. Complex, dark and earthy bouquet of ripe black cherries, enriched with notes of dried flowers, spices, crushed stones and a hint of animal musk. The palate reveals silky textures and pure Sangiovese fruit, underpinned by earthy tones supported by a network of minerals and tannins. The mouthfeel is always lean, tangy and soft, although you can feel the wine's full body and great appeal at all times. The final is polished and refined and lasts for several minutes. SUPERIORE.DE

"Elegant, bright ruby red colour. Great complexity on the nose, a potpourri of mint, blood orange, candied cherry and elegant spice. Juicy, polished and present on the palate, with great red berry fruit, expressive and clear, medium-bodied and elegant, drinks very well, repeatedly juicy on the final." Falstaff

"This red wine is characterised by aromas of plums, ripe cherries, wild herbs and iron. On the palate, the purity of the fruit unfolds together with accents of tobacco and bergamot. The wine is solidly built, with dusty tannins that vie for attention with the fruit on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"Cocounut husk, vanilla and clove on the nose. Loads of plum, raspberry, dusty tannins, finish big with sour cherries and aromatic herbs." Decanter

"Deep red berry fruit, sweet spices, cinnamon and cloves introduce the Brunello di Montalcino 2019. The Brunello di Montalcino is silky through and through, with a depth of red fruits and spices accompanied by juicy acidity. Liquorice and cloves combine with tart raspberry, while the 2019 finishes surprisingly fresh and lightly structured." Vinous

"The Mastrojanni 2019 Brunello di Montalcino has a pretty bouquet with dark fruit and something exotic reminiscent of camphor ash, wood fire ash, garrigue and dried herbs. It is rich and evenly concentrated with fine chalk on the tannins and good phenolic ripeness. It is an excellent accompaniment to grilled game or French magret de canard. This pure local bottling does a great job and is ultimately more approachable than many of its competitors." Wine Advocate

"From vineyards between 180 and 400 metres, impeccable processing in the cellar for a wine of great freshness. Notes of wild strawberries on the nose, a hint of rose and star anise, with mentholated hints. On the palate, savoury tannins, mentholated and with a return of small fruits." Luca Gardini

A textbook Pian delle Vigne: a full bouquet of small red berries, brown spices, mocha and tobacco, before musky cherries and sage follow. Its cool, creamy texture introduces a dense wave of ripe red and black fruits, with salty minerals and fine-grained tannins providing grip. It will show its full beauty in a few years, but with sufficient aeration it is already a pleasure today! SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red colour, bright. Fine hints of mint, ripe cherries and cranberries on the nose, fine balsamic tones on the finish. Great juiciness on the palate, clear fruit and well-integrated acidity, opens warm-hearted and full-bodied, fine salty finish." Falstaff

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino opens with a dark and brooding bouquet that blends plum sauce with dark chocolate and espresso beans. It combines velvety textures with ripe red and black fruits over a core of juicy acidity, while maintaining a lifted and energetic feel. The 2019 finishes structured and long, but still relatively fresh. Orange-flavoured blackberries and savoury herbs linger. I'm very impressed with the 2019's palate performance and tannin management, but I wish the winery would go for an equally fresh presentation on the nose. Still, fans of the Pian delle Vigne style will love the energy in this wine." Vinous

"Aromas and flavours of iron and red chalk define this muscular red wine, while notes of plum cherry, menthol and tar are added on the chewy and extended finish. Balanced tannins, with a nice length." Vinous

"Sweet black cherries with some blackberries as well as cherry blossom on the nose and palate. Medium to full-bodied with firm tannins and a chewy finish, but it will soften and come together nicely with bottle age." James Suckling

"Prestige, elegance and tradition, a label symbol of the denomination. Olfaction refined, notes of dogwood, eucalyptus and touches of bergamot. Crunchy-dense palate, with briny tannins, returns with balsamic and citrusy notes." Luca Gardini

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

"The Guidalberto is made from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot and has its own vines, some of which are inside and some outside the Sassicaia DOC. A very subtle wine with ripe, charming fruit and a velvety texture. It is more elegant and refined than before." Weinwisser

"Gently shining ruby red colour. Multi-layered bouquet, opens on ripe wild berries, redcurrant, notes of juniper, cedar and black pepper, a touch of lilac. Silky attack, precise fruit on very well-integrated, fine tannins, elegant and with gentle pressure in the long final." Falstaff

"The 2022 is full of aromas of herbs and sea breeze amid bright, tangy berries. In the mouth, it is savoury and precise, with a juiciness to the concentrated core of plums and black berries and a gracefulness to the tannin and acidity structures that weave through it. Juicy and incredibly flavoursome, with a wonderfully ripe red berry finish, this wine really stands on its own two feet." Decanter

"Lots of mint with sage and fresh rosemary to go with the redcurrants and oranges on the nose, as well as some ripe raspberries. The palate is very refined with creamy and crisp tannins that run the length of the wine. It shows a crisp and energetic personality. It should be given another year or two to develop, but it is already very good for the vintage." James Suckling

"The Guidalberto 2022 gives you a good taste of the same DNA that gives us one of Italy's greatest wines, Sassicaia, but it is offered here in a more immediate style. This warm vintage opens with a medium-dark concentration and very powerful aromas that immediately remind you of blackberries and blackcurrants lying in the sun at the farmers' market. The wine shows a soft and gentle side with a nice level of elegance conveyed by the freshness of the fruit and the slight oak spice that is noticeable here, but with grace." Wine Advocate

"This red wine is elegant, despite its firm structure and dense tannins. Flavours of black cherry, blackcurrant, plum, tobacco, iron and rosemary hold court, while all components are balanced. The finish is long, with a salty flavour." Wine Spectator

Bright and radiant, with a lot of Nebbiolo character, it is a successful interpretation of the terroir and shows the great class of the winery. Sweet red cherries, tobacco, mint, aniseed and white pepper on the nose. Medium-bodied and graceful on the palate with a good balance of flavour, acidity and structure. With further bottle ageing, it looks set for a great development. SUPERIORE.DE

"Light, transparent garnet red colour with a brightening rim. Very appealing on the nose with aromas of sour cherries, raspberries and forest floor as well as hints of rose petals and thyme. Very juicy and fresh on the palate, almost youthful, with grippy tannins and a long final." Falstaff

"Earthy and herbaceous, with a hint of fruit leaves and a delicious aroma reminiscent of strawberry and blackcurrant jam. Freshly ground spices add depth, including sweet cinnamon and spicy thyme. The palate encounters the charm of a vintage with dried cherries, wild herbs and elegant tannins that evoke the timeless appeal of an old-school classic that is delicious now but will refine with age." Wine Enthusiast

"Very fine and polished with flavours of plums, strawberries and cedar wood as well as an undertone of iodine, shells and chocolate. Medium body, ultra-fine tannins and a lovely finish. It is balanced and beautiful. Such brightness and finesse with structure. It's attractive now, but it will reward patience." James Suckling

Montestefano Riserva is exquisite and harmonious from start to finish. Of the Produttori's nine great Riservas, it is the one that best conceals its tannins, as the fruit is intensely fragrant, rich and seductive. For us, it is a synthesis of Montefico, Ovello and Rabajà. Today, Montestefano gives the impression of being relatively accessible, but it will almost certainly go through a few more stages of closure before it fully opens up. The bouquet surprises us with sheer endless complexity and depth. Its silky, polished tannins give an impression of sensual elegance. Crushed meadow flowers, mint, liquorice and dark red cherries are just some of the notes that envelop the deep, long finish. Fabulous! SUPERIORE.DE

"Spicy and mineral nose. Very appetising and complex." Jancis Robinson

"Restrained, but not boring at first. Very mineral nose with peach peel, orange zest, sweet violets and vermouth-like complexity, firm tannins, medium body, crisp acidity and an extracted but classic finish." James Suckling

"The 2019 Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano is perhaps the most complete of the 2019 Riservas at this stage. It offers fine depth, plenty of tannin and an emerging inner sweetness that holds everything together. The Montestefano is a wine of stature and textural depth and my first favourite in this range." Vinous

"Evocative and aromatic, this red features cherry, rose, white pepper, eucalyptus, iron and tobacco flavors. Firmly built, with dense tannins and a savory finish, this is balanced but needs time." Wine Spectator

"Powerful aromas that start with black raspberries, stewed cherries and a mix of sweet and savoury spices. Subtle floral and herbal notes add to the depth of the nose. The palate is broad and rich, with a generous helping of mixed berry jam with crushed pepper and dried herbs. The tannins are masterful with a refined nature that brings out the soul of Nebbiolo and shows how well this wine will age." Wine Enthusiast

Luciano has been keeping back a small amount of his Barolo Aleste for a few years now, allowing it to continue maturing in the bottle in his cellar. The result is called "Sibi et Paucis", an impressive and rare opportunity to experience the marvellous ageing potential of his great Baroli. SUPERIORE.DE

"This broad version shows ripe aromas and flavours of plum, cherry, leather and woody undergrowth. Firm and dense, with a balance that shifts towards the tannins, but long and satisfying." Wine Spectator

"The Barolo Aleste Sibi et Paucis 2014 is just reaching its early stage of maturity. Bright acids and savoury nuances give the 2014 a remarkable freshness. Medium-bodied and beautifully moulded, the 2014 offers good dynamism in the concentrated style of the vintage. The 2014 is well matured." Vinous

"The 2014 Barolo Aleste Sibi et Paucis from Luciano Sandrone is a controversial vintage that exceeded initial expectations. The tertiary notes are developed in this one, but they work well over candied cherry, earthy liquorice root and orange peel. There's a hint of undergrowth, some savoury spice and cured leather. There are only 1,500 bottles." Wine Advocate

"Garnet red colour with very lively ruby red. Aromas of plums, pitted cherries, leather, tar, earthy minerality and liquorice. Some hints of rhubarb. Full-bodied with grainy tannins of good ripeness and extraction, great fruit concentration, melting acidity and a savoury and long finish. Amazing example of the 2014 vintage." James Suckling

The grapes for the estate's classic Barolo come from the vineyards/communes of Ornato, La Serra, Briccolina in Serralunga d'Alba, Gustava and Garretti in Grinzane Cavour, Roncaglie in La Morra, Ravera in Novello and, from the 2015 vintage, also from Mosconi in Monforte d'Alba. It is more of a traditional, classic Barolo with an exciting bouquet of deep, dark fruit and a pretty potpourri of rose petals, spices, smoke and tar. It is full-bodied and firm on the palate, opening up with plenty of dense tannins, very powerful, with pressure and a full bite on the finish, designed for a long life. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium red; inviting, undergrowth, not intense; good fullness and sweetness, also depth, long, round tannin." Merum

"Fruity and floral on the nose; harmonious, still youthful texture, the tannins robust, the evolution precise, the finish polished and fruity. Convinces with its noble construction." Vinum

"Bright ruby colour with garnet and a delicately brightening rim. Fine stony tones on the nose, delicate wild berries, blood oranges, distantly reminiscent of cold earth. Polished on the palate, on fine notes of black tea, slightly balsamic, tense, deep and salty, comes in many layers." Falstaff

"Beautiful flavours of flowers, fresh strawberries and raspberries are followed by a medium to full palate with fine tannins that extend over the entire length of the wine. Undertones of citrus and spice. The finish is long and intense. Tannic finish." James Suckling

"The historic house of Pio Cesare produces some of its best wines today. This classic highlights the purity of Nebbiolo with notes of tart red fruits combined with sweet and savoury spices, followed by subtle hints of flowers and earth. Sour cherry flavours dominate the palate with soft tannins, savoury herbs and a lively finish." Wine Enthusiast

"Pio Cesare has done a great job with his classic Barolo 2019 (produced since 1881). At the bottom of the front label it says "Barolo Pio" in memory of the legendary Pio Boffa. He was a wine entrepreneur who was immediately respected and loved by all who knew him. The wine focuses strictly on the bright Nebbiolo fruit with aromas of redcurrant and aniseed. The finish is soft with tannins that dissolve elegantly on the palate." Wine Advocate

Guado al Tasso presents itself with a warm-toned bouquet and an abundance of fruit that is just as convincing as its harmonious structure. Deep, dark, rich ruby-purple colour. Very clear and intense nose, with aromas of blackberries, cassis and dark cherries, underpinned by fine, spicy notes with hints of white pepper and leather. Very juicy on the attack and on the palate, with plenty of sweet flavour, elegant tannins and a very long finish. A finesse-rich red that offers maximum drinking pleasure and great ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Elegant, dense bouquet with the intensity and flavour of a coastal Cabernet: dark berries, clearly blueberries, ripe plums, dark cherries, cedar and tobacco. Extremely juicy in the mouth with dark berry fruit, very precise with good definition, remains elegant throughout, without rough edges, with elegant, polished tannins, balanced and harmonious. Already fun to drink." Weinwisser

"After a little aeration, beguiling aromas of black cherries, undergrowth and hot stone; the attack with vigour, then a lot of polish, the tannins still youthful, but with a lot of potential, the final balanced and long. Should mature." Vinum

"Deep dark, rich ruby colour with a black core. Concentrated and profound nose, aromas of blackberries, plums and blackcurrants, with a hint of tar and tobacco. Polished and extremely elegant on the palate, finely woven tannins in many layers, firm bite on the final." Falstaff

"This wine is a real forward mover, with a determined mouthfeel that coats the palate thanks to plummy fruits, baked blackberries and sweet spices. The wine gracefully adds a much-needed minerality that enhances the sense of freshness. Even some mint enlivens the mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

"There's a lovely coolness here, with black and blue fruits mingling with strong balsam and menthol, undergrowth and damp earth. Smooth and shiny, vertical and firm, it's still very tightly wound and demands time in the bottle. The bright acidity is penetrating, and ripe wild berries show on the finish. So good." Decanter

"This wine is really well made, with ultra-fine tannins that spread across the palate. It is medium-bodied with a balanced character of redcurrants, dark chocolate and hazelnuts. It is very long and persistent, with marvellous refinement and unctuousness on the finish. Very well made." James Suckling

"The pedigree and purity of this red wine are immediately evident in its aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, pomegranate, violet and wild herbs. Saturated with red and black fruits and with liquorice and mineral elements, it is all about finesse and harmony. The long finish is characterised by notes of fruit, minerals, cedar wood, liquorice and spices." Wine Spectator

"The 2021 Bolgheri Superiore Guado al Tasso is a very beautiful wine, but also quite a departure from the style that made it famous years ago. harvestwill find a particularly polished Guado al Tasso, a wine that emphasises finesse rather than power. Silky tannins envelop a core of black cherry fruit, liquorice, spices, mocha and new leather. Bright, savoury undertones extend the exquisite finish. There's more Cabernet Franc in the blend these days, which is reflected in the wine's crazy aromatic presence and feel. Beautiful." Vinous

Almost every year, Barolo Campè takes top places among its high-calibre competitors. Fittingly, the majestic red wine bears the king of beasts, a lion, on its ornate yellow label. We think: There could hardly be a better graphic interpretation of this deep and stately wine. An all-round successful experience. Aromas of flowers and berries on the nose, with notes of vanilla and a hint of rosebud, full-bodied and very concentrated, with great, initially still chewy tannins and a long, powerful final. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Barolo Campè 2020 is an attractive, open-knit Barolo from La Spinetta. There is no mistaking that the aromas and flavours are rather forward for such a young wine, suggesting some winemaking challenges. Sweet dried cherries, mint, spice, leather and tobacco linger." Vinous

"Rich and inviting Barolo with notes of peach stone, sandalwood, red cherries, sweet basil and potpourri. It is full-bodied and comprehensive with fine-grained, powdery tannins. Powerful fruit. Try it from 2027 onwards." James Suckling

Monteverro - a classic French blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot - is a great cru from the Maremma and brims with opulence and diversity. Rich, dark ruby with a black core. Incredibly rich in aromas of dark fruits, chocolate and spices, soft, full body, polished tannins. It is impossible to exaggerate the joy of the magnificence of this wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"This vintage of Monteverro's premium red wine (made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot) has light green aromas reminiscent of blackberries, grilled herbs and potting soil. It was an uneven growing season with a cool and wet spring followed by a hot summer." Wine Advocate

"The 2018 Monteverro is classy, elegant and polished. Lifted aromatics and silky tannins frame this decidedly understated Maremma red. Crushed flowers, spice, menthol, licorice, lavender and dried herbs are all finely laced together. This is such an engaging wine." Vinous

"Sparkling, powerful ruby violet. Compact nose with notes of juicy, dark blackberries, black cherries and currants, fine spice in the background. Full-bodied and gripping on the palate, shows firm, grippy tannins, builds up well, firm pressure on the final and tobacco in the aftertaste." Falstaff

"Blackcurrant and black liquorice with dried flowers and sandalwood. Full-bodied, really racy and powerful with great tannins. Flavourful and very long. Needs time to develop. Give it time until 2024 and beyond." James Suckling

Andrea Cortonesi's Brunello di Montalcino 2019 shows its best side right from the start. It combines richness, maturity and finesse to create a model of total balance. At first glance, it is dark, earthy and herbal, but with time in the glass, a massive wave of black cherries, raspberries, sage and a grounding note of undergrowth emerges. In the mouth, it coats everything it touches with a silky, cool texture that gives way to ripe red and black fruits complemented by spiced citrus, while nuances of lavender and tobacco develop. While the wine feels round and supple, fine-grained tannins slowly creep in, reminding you how young it really is. A hint of baker's chocolate, liquorice and a touch of tart blackberry resonate on the long final... SUPERIORE.DE

"Multifaceted bouquet with aromas of dark berries, leather and chocolate; the attack is full-bodied, the tannins perfectly integrated, develops full of esprit towards an extremely fruity final." Vinum

"Ripe ruby red with a brick-coloured rim. Fairly developed, ripe and brooding cherry fruit nose with hints of tobacco. The palate is much more backward but well put together, with plenty of chewy tannins that don't overpower the fruit. It's an old-school wine, and I'd wait another two years before approaching it. Very long and captivating." Jancis Robinson

"It opens with aromas reminiscent of cedar and pine forest, undergrowth and leather. The palate is full and powerful, but more square than round. A compact core of dark cherry is surrounded by chewy, generous tannins. A hint of dryness from the wood comes through. Still, this wine feels very real, and the underlying acidity provides a brightening effect." Decanter

"Perfumed and attractive with flavours of black cherries and berries, as well as lavender and rosemary flowers. Medium-bodied with firm tannins and a juicy finish. Needs to age in the bottle to mellow." James Suckling

"Dense and muscular, this red delivers a broad swath of cherry, plum and floral flavors, supplemented by iron, eucalyptus and sanguine notes. Tightens up on the finish, leaving a compact impression, yet this is persistent overall." Wine Spectator

"The Uccelliera 2019 Brunello di Montalcino offers ripe fruit, a hint of cooked blackberries and pomegranate juice. Together with oak spice and dried bay leaf, there is a hint of creaminess in the centre of the palate, reminiscent of cheese rind or matured chèvre with a crust of black pepper and thyme. This note fades, however, and the wine returns to dried cherry with a medicinal or herbal flavour. There is a lot going on. The wine needs more time in the bottle to work through the fine, chalky tannins. It's already elegant now, but it will improve." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is a profound and intense wine that shoots from the glass with a wave of autumnal spices, crushed cherries, cedar shavings and soaked plums underpinned by pine notes. This wine is highly structured, elegant and refined, with a dense wave of ripe forest fruits accompanied by vibrant acidity underscored by orange and balsamic herbs. It finishes grippy and lingering with a black hole of tension and a sweet and sour sensation that lingers on and on as crisp tannins reverberate within. The 2019 is youthfully backward today, but its balance is undeniable, especially as it has opened up over twenty-four hours. It is an absolute pleasure to taste this wine. Bury the 2019 deep in your cellar." Vinous

Fine, silky tannins frame a core of crushed berries, flowers, liquorice and new leather. The wine's inner extract sweetness reveals itself only with time of aeration, adding harmony and class. Already today, a super-elegant and at the same time refined and open Brunello presents itself, which always remains graceful and fresh at the same time, despite all its fruit fullness. Our perspective: With increasing bottle maturity, the drinking pleasure of this first-class Sangiovese increases even more! SUPERIORE.DE

"Mid ruby. Deep savoury cherry nose with hints of pine. Racy cherry fruit on the palate with fine coating tannins. Long, vibrant and concentrated. Gorgeous length and freshness." Jancis Robinson

"Ripe, sweet plum, cherry and blackberry flavors are complemented by iron and tobacco accents in this suave red. Shows fine balance and texture, with well-integrated tannins and acidity and a long, mouthwatering finish." Wine Spectator

"A debut on the Place this year from a vintage hailed as one of the best in the last decade. Grapes come from a 30-hectare vineyard bought in 2017 by Belgian businessman Marcel van Poecke who has invested heavily in replantings and new cellar facilities. The texture and overall feel here are lovely - powerful and succulent bramble fruits fill the palate, gliding across the tongue while coffee grounds and dried herbs settle in the background giving structure and definition. This has an aerial quality with real finesse." Decanter

"This is so aromatic and floral with cedar, dried roses, and black cherries. It’s full-bodied, yet so refined and tight with silky tannins and a flavorful finish. Tight and focused. Needs time to open, but shows beautiful finesse and focus." James Suckling

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino offers a pure and classic expression of the vintage with bright fruit tones, wild cherry, toasted nut, blue flower and forest floor. Whereas the other wines in the Poggio Antico portfolio undergo aging in smaller tonneaux, this wine is aged in large Slavonian casks instead. You taste the lift and brightness of the fruit, and it's all quite lovely. Grapes are sourced across a 13-hectare site at a very high 500 meters in elevation. The name of this area is I Poggi, and the soils here are a bit lighter and rockier with both schistous galestro and limestone alberese. I love the delicate approach here, the intensity of those floral aromas, and the silky nature of the mouthfeel. This classic Brunello really stands out." Wine Advocate

"Classic Sangiovese aromas of underbrush, wild berry and new leather mingle with whiffs of camphor. Supremely elegant, the focused palate shows precision and great energy, featuring juicy red cherry, pomegranate, white pepper and black tea set against chiseled, refined tannins. Vibrant acidity keeps it balanced while a salty mineral note lingers on the close. Fantastic showing." Wine Enthusiast

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

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

"Promising aromas of raspberries and flowers, with subtle notes of pepper; pithy on the palate, perfectly integrated acidity, lots of juice, power, plump tannins, character and a wonderful spicy final on notes of ripe cherries and sandalwood." Vinum

"Dark ruby red colour with a delicately brightening rim. On the nose, pronounced spicy aromas of ripe wild berries, rich Amarena cherries and clear pepper spice, with a leathery aftertaste. Tight-knit and pithy on the palate, spreads out with grip, very juicy, with a subtle salty undertone, powerful and long with plenty of character, still needs some bottle ageing." Falstaff

"Medium to deep ruby red colour. Spicy, mineral, elegant and a little reserved on the nose. Deep, juicy cherry fruit, supported by the right dose of chewy tannins. Very long. Concentrated, lively and relaxed at the same time." Jancis Robinson

"This wine is elegant, with floral, cherry, raspberry and mineral flavours. A hint of earth shines through, while the finish is graceful." Wine Spectator

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo 2019 is a powerful, virile wine with enormous depth and equally impressive tannins. An explosion of dark fruits, herbs, chocolate, menthol and spices flows from the glass. Big tannins and a hint of rusticity suggest that the 2019 will not be one of the finest sorbos, but it is a good effort for this year." Vinous

"Vigna del Sorbo lies at an altitude of 400 metres and has the classic Galestro soil of Chianti Classico. The warm, south-west facing vineyard typically produces a powerful, intense wine that requires ageing. The 2019 shows all the wild, penetrating characteristics of this site, but it quickly comes into harmony and reveals its balance and precision. The wood-accentuated notes of smoke and vanilla give way to pressed violets, rosemary and liquorice. Luscious red cherry and dark plum flesh is enveloped by long, layered, chalky tannins. The palate reveals an energetic bar of unwavering acidity that gives the wine a linear feel. Fennel and crushed stone linger on the finish." Decanter

"Usually excellent Sangiovese in purity of great elegance from Fontodi, with the step ahead of a great vintage. Nose of freshness, marasche, with officinal hints of citron thyme, mouth with a nice acidic shoulder, salty tannins, crispiness and incisiveness. Persistent." Luca Gardini

"This iconic wine has a whole new energy as it is now part of an exciting range of potential Gran Selezione wines being made at Fontodi. Two new additions to the portfolio (Pastrolo from cool Lamole and Terrazze San Leonlino from Panzano) help to give greater context to the organic 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo. This wine naturally benefits from many years of experience, and the identity of Vigna del Sorbo is well established. Soil connoisseurs, however, will take great pleasure in comparing the Vigna del Sorbo from slate-rich Galestro soils with the calcareous alternative from Terrazze San Leonlino. I lean towards the Vigna del Sorbo because I find the mineral notes of pencil and iron ore so appealing. These dusty notes are rounded out by sweet cherry fruit, plum and spice. Rising alcohol levels can be a problem in sun-drenched Panzano, and the wine team lets the vines grow higher in summer to provide shade and takes other active measures to combat this problem." Wine Advocate

Gallule is the flagship of the compelling Chianti Classico range and is extremely finely balanced and precise. The Sangiovese grapes are harvested from an old terraced vineyard in Castellina in Chianti. It offers depth and a long sequence of delicate nuances with dark fruits, balsamic herbs, liquorice and freshly ploughed potting soil. This Gran Selezione is a complete and beautiful wine, executed in a very classic style to boot. Gallule is all about the little details, which reveal themselves with each sip. SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful, sparkling ruby. Opens with rich notes of dark cherry, blackberry, and some leather. Nice pressure on the palate, creamy, fine tannin." Falstaff

"The 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Gallule is for the first time a Gran Selezione. It emerges from the old terraces in Gagliole's Castellina estate. Black cherry, plum, leather, menthol and spice build as the 2018 opens in the glass. A wine of texture and resonance, the 2018 has quite a bit to offer." Vinous

"Flowers and blackberries with bark and walnut undertones. Full-bodied with extremely well crafted tannins that give depth and length. Serious balance and structure. Goes on for a long time. Very clear character here." James Suckling

"This organic wine has been upgraded to Gran Selezione status. With fruit from a terraced vineyard in Castellina in Chianti made with ancient stone walls, the Gagliole 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Gallule is an intricate and complicated wine to craft. Sangiovese vines range in age from 20 to 60 years old, and the final blend represents a special match of various sub-plots that changes each year. Fruit selection is key. The results are lucid and especially bright, aromatically speaking, with forest floor, wild cherry, lavender, crushed oyster shell and plum. There's even a touch of smoked ham. Castellina tends to be cooler at night with greater diurnal shifts, and this adds pretty freshness." Wine Advocate

Unique Supertuscan made from Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. A ripe bouquet of dark fruit and excellently integrated, spicy oak notes, with a delicious hint of freshly ground coffee and cocoa. Powerful elegance, great finesse, polished tannins and admirable independence on the palate. SUPERIORE.DE

"Smells wild - herbal and beautifully floral on the nose with ripe blackberry flavours. Round and supple, full-bodied and structured with fleshy tannins that also have a cool, chalky mineral edge that adds some minerality and freshness to the palate that balances the ripe, sweet black and blue fruits. I like the lingering powdery element and this wine has a certain spiciness and sophistication - cool blue fruits, cola, vanilla, cedar and toast. I find it hard to categorise it as Tuscan, as it smells and tastes more like an old-school Bordeaux or a Californian wine. Massive, heavy, with lots of oak and extraction." Decanter

"The nose captures the wistfulness of one last warm autumn day, with aromas of vanilla and berries floating above an herbal, woody earthiness. On the palate, the berries and herbs swirl together into a mocha finish, but contoured tannins and notable acid balance the fruit." Wine Enthusiast

"Intriguing berry-chocolate bouquet, nuances of spices and macchia; the attack is very supple, the acidity perfectly integrated, in harmony with the powdery tannins, powerful and yet with a lot of finesse right up to the spicy-herbal berry finish. Excellent style." Vinum

"This is a rich and profound wine with round tones of black fruit, spice, smoked tobacco and tarry smoke. The Biserno is shapely and generous with a full-bodied attack accentuated by crushed stone and pencil shavings. This opulent, cellar-worthy wine offers plenty of intensity and texture." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 Biserno is one of the best wines I've ever tasted here. Rich yet vibrant, the 2020 presents a much more restrained style than used to be the norm. There's still plenty of intensity, but energy and vibrancy have replaced volume as signatures. Espresso, menthol, liquorice, cloves and leather are some of the many notes that unfold in this powerful, elegant Maremma red wine. The wonderful flavours of the franc open up the finish effortlessly." Vinous

"A majestic blend of Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, a bouquet that opens with a slight buzz to then reveal itself in its fullness, blackcurrants, with undergrowth, capers from Pantelleria, orange peel, a drink with salty tannins and persistence, with a mentholated finish." Luca Gardini

"Very attractive nose with ripe blackcurrants, spiced chocolate, grilled thyme, hazelnuts and bacon. Also notes of tobacco and cedar. Full bodied, so refined and polished with layers of finely chiselled tannins evenly distributed across the wine and beautifully integrated. Flourishing fruit with savoury herbs, peppermint and violets. Very long and persistent with a steady, mineral impression on the finish." James Suckling

"Dark, bright ruby red colour. Very fragrant and expressive nose of cassis, blackberries, fine mint, a hint of precious wood and milk chocolate, with a rich blackcurrant finish. Full-bodied on the palate, with an enormous amount of sweet melting, polished, embedded in tightly woven tannins, a noble liquorice note, comes back juicy in the back, very long, elegant, powerful." Falstaff