wine classics

The excellent Cabernet-Merlot blend Giusto di Notri is a concentrated wine with an intense, rich flavour. A perfectly balanced bouquet of blackberry, blackcurrant and fine herbal spice. Compact on the palate with a well-tempered balance between fruit and oak, plus a distinctive tannin, promising and powerful in the final. SUPERIORE.DE

"A concentrated, supple red that offers flavours of blackcurrant, blackberry, iron, earth and roasted spices. Although supported by a backbone of firm, dense tannins, it remains balanced and long in its youthful style. Give this wine another two to three years in the cellar." Wine Spectator

"Powerful, bright ruby red colour. Clear and precise fruit, some tobacco and leather up front, then lots of dark berry fruit. Full-bodied and rich on the palate, shows lots of fine-meshed tannins, firm pressure, some liquorice, lots of cassis, very long finish." Falstaff

"The nose offers seemingly infinite layers, first showing tiny wild blueberries and mulberries, then violets and peonies, then a soft, soothing earth element comes in, with a final tangy, peppery aroma. On the palate, sweeter, darker berries spar with continued astringent notes, while silky tannins blanket everything with the distinctive mouthfeel of Tua Rita." Wine Enthusiast

"Lots of incense in the aromas with sandalwood and lavender. Also blackcurrants, blackberries and fresh herbs. Full-bodied and very rich, with a powerful, structured mid palate and a long, long finish. A wine for the future. Try it after 2026." James Suckling

"The 2020 Giusto di Notri is a blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Cabernet Franc and 8% Merlot and is a ripe, powerful and generous wine. The DNA of the wine has changed slightly over the years to favour Cabernet Franc (at a higher percentage) over Merlot, which has dropped from a previous high of around 35% to 40% of the blend a decade ago. What I like about this wine is that it offers an elegant, almost understated interpretation of a hot and dry vintage. The tannins are particularly well integrated in this situation." Wine Advocate

Dark red with light reflections. On the nose, this great Riserva shows lots of sweet red cherry, wild berry, Asian herbs and notes of undergrowth. Firm and still very austere on the palate with a well-defined fruit and present acidity. The exceptional structure is flanked by a good tannin framework, which reinforces the austerity and precision. This Riserva is not an easy-drinking wine, but will only find its full expression after a few years of maturation. All components indicate that it will then be one of the best Brunellos that this exceptionally full-bodied vintage has produced. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, rich ruby garnet. Lush, inviting nose with rich notes of ripe plums, pickled cherries and cloves. Lots of ripe, present fruit on the palate, coupled with good freshness, opens with fine-meshed tannin, savoury and long." Falstaff

"A mix of cherry, plum, leather, rosemary, iron and tobacco flavors ply the sleek profile of this balanced red, which has good grip and a lingering savory aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"The San Polo 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva (with 8,000 bottles produced) is a textured wine with hearty fruit and touches of smoked meat and spice. At its core, the wine offers dark fruit, blackberry and ripe plum. The rich fruitiness of the wine cedes to campfire ash, mahogany and furniture wax. These results are sultry and even a bit flashy, with distant background tones of teriyaki and plum sauce." Wine Advocate

"Lovely purity of fruit with ultra fine tannins and depth, finesse and complexity. Black cherries, cedar and some flowers. It's full-bodied with very fine tannins that drive the finish. Give it a year or two to open more, but already so enticing." James Suckling

The Sottimano winery has five vineyard sites, with the Pajoré site near Treiso having the poorest soil of all. These wines are therefore more elegant and mature. Pajoré is a super-classic, explosive wine, endowed with enormous depth and character. Although it has plenty of breadth and texture, it remains light on its feet. Lavender, mint, liquorice and purple berry fruits are beguiling and wonderfully lively in the glass. Pajorè is a spicy, elegant and sweet Nebbiolo that is fine yet covers the mouth well - and we are always impressed by its lovely savoury mouthfeel. SUPERIORE.DE

"Just mid ruby. Salty and savoury, the minerals jumping out of the glass, and with hints of morocco leather and raspberry. Lots of suave, ripe red fruit on the palate and with a firm structure. Needs at least another year in bottle even if the fruit indicates it is ready now. Very long and the tannins still need to settle." Jancis Robinson

"A floral and fruity journey of discovery awaits you with every sip of this enchanting wine. Tantalising aromas whisk you away to a garden in bloom, where fresh wild cherries play amidst swirling rose petals and fragrant herbs. On the palate, ripe red fruits combine with sweet spices, fine tannins and a lively acidity that keeps every sip lively and balanced." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2021 Barbaresco Pajorè is a wild, exotic wine that combines the intensity of the vintage with plenty of classic structure. It is rich and full-bodied, but the Pajorè is quite closed today, as it almost always is at this stage. Sage, lavender, menthol, liquorice and a whole range of balsamic influences lead to a strong, brooding finish." Vinous

On the nose, dark red cherries, cherry brandy, menthol, pine wood and spices. The silky finish is enveloped by sweet, floral notes. The top 2016 vintage is characterised by its fine texture and impeccable overall balance with equally high density. For us, it is one of the most rounded, precise and rich Brunello of this vintage, with an ageing potential that will meet every expectation. SUPERIORE.DE

"Mid to deep ruby. Deeper and more brooding than the regular Brunello. Quite closed on the palate but this is real class in the making. Racy cherry palate with gorgeous coating tannins with amazing depth and spread." Jancis Robinson

"This Brunello offers ample cherry and raspberry fruit, along with underbrush and earth flavors, backed by robust tannins. Shows a rich texture midpalate, along with a strong grip on the finish." Wine Spectator

"Rose, citrus, wild herb and new leather aromas come to the forefront. Enveloping and loaded with finesse, the linear, full-bodied palate delivers juicy cherry, orange zest, licorice and a hint of graphite alongside taut, close-grained tannins that leave a firm finish. It's balanced, with vibrant acidity. Youthfully austere." Wine Enthusiast

"I love the decadent edge to the ripe black cherries, cherries and cedar with some sandalwood. It’s full-bodied and very tight with polished, refined tannins that give the wine wonderful length and focus. So long and exquisite." James Suckling

"If you have visited the site that gives birth to this wine, it's impossible to forget the view. This is one of the only (maybe the only) vineyard in Montalcino from which you can see the twinkle of light that reflects off the Tyrrhenian Sea in the far distance. That altitude, exposure and open panorama shapes the very elegant Poggio Antico 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Altero. Specifically, the fruit comes from Il Vignone, located in the I Poggi area, at 500 meters in altitude (very high for Montalcino). Il Vignone measures just under five hectares and sees loose, well-draining soils. The wine reveals dark fruit intensity and concentration with black cherry, plum and tilled earth. There's a tangy hint of tilled earth or dried lilac as well. The character of this wine is more robust for sure, but that elegance that we saw in the classic Brunello is also present here." Wine Advocate

The cru sites Liste, Terlo, Baudana, Gabutti, Ravera di Monforte and Mosconi are the origins of the grapes for the terrificVia Nuova. It is a monumental, exciting wine that combines the best that the vintage had to offer. Explosive in the glass, with breathtaking aromatic depth, it is stunningly beautiful from the first sip. Dark macerated cherry, lavender, spice, menthol and rose petals are enhanced by the underlying acidity and tannin that give the wine its energy and drive. Via Nuova is a wine of exceptional harmony, purity and finesse with an everlasting finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Concentrated medium ruby. A bit more oak on the nose and a bit more extensive than the Cannubi and with great depth. Complex note of new leather from the oak. Lots of everything on the palate with lively acidity and fragrant, ripe fruit. Long, chalky tannins give firm grip to the juicy finish." Jancis Robinson

"Tart, nutty, clearly herbal and dried floral, also tobacco aroma of red and black berries with a little leather, dried tomatoes and a trace of meat juice. Taut, tangy fruit with nutty, resinous-herbal and tobacco notes, some pepper, eucalyptus, plum and again also meat juice, present, fine-sandy, predominantly crumbly tannins, certain acidity, persistent on the palate, good depth, clearly salt, a trace of coffee and malt in the background, rose tones, hints of citrus, peppery nuances, still little developed, very good, firm, tangy and spicy, again clearly herbal finish with grip and bite. May mature." Wein-plus

"A racy Barolo with fine tannins, fresh acid backbone and undertones of orange peel. It is lively and medium-bodied with fine tannins and a crisp finish. Give it three or four years to develop." James Suckling

"Packed with cherry and raspberry flavors, this red is both supple and firmly structured. Reveals earth, mineral, eucalyptus and anise notes that add depth, while the muscular tannins take over on the finish for now. Shows fine potential." Wine Spectator

"Bright, dark ruby garnet. In the nose of fine peppermint, rich heart cherries, clearly liquorice, in the finish also fine earthy tones. Creamy and supple on the palate, then develops on ferruginous, sturdy tannins, very powerful, rich in energy, still a bit bulky in the finish, still wants to age." Falstaff

"The 2019 Barolo Via Nuova is a blend of fruit from different sites in several villages of the appellation. The wine is immediately open and beautiful, showing dark fruit, cherry, spice, blue flowers and floral earth. The healthy fruit in this vintage shows an almost crisp quality." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Barolo Via Nuova is another great wine in this tasting. In its aromatic intensity, the 2019 is high and wide, it has it all. The blend of seven sites works so well. harvestwill find a seamless, wonderfully complete Barolo. Dried flowers, herbs, mint, rose petals, cherry and orange peel give it remarkable complexity. The 2019 is deep and also quite rich, but not at all heavy. There is a hint of oak sweetness, but that only adds to the exotic beauty of the wine." Vinous

"A Barolo of great interest, velvety and elegant. On the nose, notes of sour cherries, a touch of undergrowth and lightly smoked, complemented by balsamic notes and black pepper. On the palate, fruity and smoky notes reappear, with a balsamic and spicy finish." Luca Gardini

The Barolo Cannubi with its interpretation of the Nebbiolo grape, probably the purest at Altare, has been the ambitious project of daughter Silvia since 2011 and represents an exciting rounding off of the already almost unique collection. Sparkling, brightening ruby garnet. A very clear and inviting nose, smelling of ripe raspberries and plums, a little rose petals, subtle hints of cloves in the background. Round and balanced on the palate, plump ripe fruit, then starts with bundled, dense tannin, fills the palate full, a firework of spices in the final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Lustrous mid ruby. Perfumed and almost a little exotic and very fine. Complex, super inviting and with a whisper of oak, but still holding back a little. A thick layer of fine tannins over fresh raspberry fruit. Such fine but powerful tannins! Amazing length." Jancis Robinson

"Cherry and menthol are the main themes of this elegant red wine, which is rounded off by notes of plum, iron, spice and tobacco. It is balanced, with a long, juicy finish." Wine Spectator

"With only 2,500 bottles released from three barrels, this is a gorgeous interpretation of Nebbiolo. The Elio Altare 2019 Barolo Cannubi is slender in form but rich and long lasting on the palate. The wine reveals tones of wild berry, crushed rose and exotic spice." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Barolo Cannubi shows why this site is so magical. It offers all the suppleness that Cannubi is so known for, but married to the natural tension of the year. Sweet red cherry, kirsch, cinnamon, blood orange and mint open nicely in the glass. With its gorgeous inner perfume and total sensuality, the Cannubi is an absolute winner." Vinous

"Lots of crushed stone, hints of salted caramel, and fresh flowers. Some crab apple and cranberries. Medium-bodied with plenty of tannins, but not aggressive. Rough velvet. Give this time. Better after 2028." James Suckling

"Bright ruby garnet. In the nose noble and catchy, of juicy blood orange, wild strawberries, with fine floral components, sweet raspberries and bright spice. On the palate very compact and very powerful, shows very elegantly woven and with tightly woven tannins, builds for a long time without being overbearing, big." Falstaff

"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 boasts dark ripe fruits that draw the attention as aromas of blue violets lead deeper into the glass. Juicy dark cherries flavors form the core of the palate as drying blackberries, and hints of plum weave across the firm and tannic palate that is lifted by mouthwatering acidity. Elegant and savory flavors offer a respite from the richness of the fruit on the finish." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2021 Barbaresco Albesani is a super-classic wine that is going to need time to come around. It possesses notable structure and the understated depth that is common of Barbaresco. Time in the glass brings out scents of herbs, white pepper, autumn leaves and spice. All this needs is time in bottle." Vinous

"Bright and fresh with notes of red berries, dried rose hips and asphalt. Medium-bodied. It has a meaty structure with very fine tannins and bright acidity. Shows tension and focus. Spicy at the end. Try after 2026." James Suckling

Barbaresco Asili 2017 is a stunningly beautiful wine from Ceretto. Here the energy and tension are simply stunning. Bright red cherry fruit and floral nuances abound in this taut, crystalline Barbaresco. It is already a gem of a wine, although further years of ageing will serve it well. Ceretto's classic, bursting with liveliness. SUPERIORE.DE

"Fresh cut flowers, mint and sweet red berry fruits are all nicely combined. A touch of nervousness lingers in the wine's feel, but that won't be a problem in a few years." Vinous

"A fruity, round Barbaresco with dried strawberry and cherry character and undertones of watermelon. It is medium to full-bodied with polished tannins and a flavourful finish. I like the slightly bitter citrus note at the end of the palate." James Suckling

"Sparkling, medium dense ruby garnet. Finely marked nose with notes of fresh raspberry, rosehip and plum. Juicy and clear on the palate, opens with lots of fine-meshed tannin, salty and long, very elegant and surprisingly fresh." Falstaff

"The fruit comes from a 1.3 hectare site with classic marl soils of Sant'Agata. Besides the dark fruits, much of the bouquet is reminiscent of gravel and iron rust, with other area-specific aromas characteristic of Nebbiolo in its naked state. There is also a hint of earthiness, thanks to the somewhat loose, open-knit tannins. Grated truffles, dried blackberries and pressed roses round things out." Wine Advocate

Dark ruby colour with a light rim. Dark red fruit, cedar wood and crushed rock with a fine grilled flavour on the nose. A well-balanced wine to which the cooler sites and the light sea breeze give both profile and contour. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant medium ruby red colour. Balsamic nose that is still a little closed. Supple, sweet and concentrated fruit, through which the tangy acidity shines through on the finish. Quite unruly tannins - it clearly needs more bottle ageing, for which it has plenty of substance." Jancis Robinson

"Le Potazzine's breezy, high-altitude location and the stony, well-drained soil helped to compensate for the rainfall and the threat of mildew in 2018. Nevertheless, the winery produced around 15 % less Brunello due to strict selection. It is a little shy and needs some persuasion to release forest herbs, leather and wild strawberries. Medium-bodied and delicate but not fragile, it moves gracefully and delivers a core of sweet fruit while supple, chalky tannins linger around the edges. It's almost ripe now, though it has enough depth to drink satisfactorily over the medium term." Decanter

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino has blossomed over the last year, blending earthy notes of worn leather and dusty rose that give way to woodland berries, cinnamon and tobacco. This is cool-toned and remarkably fresh with crisp wild berry fruits complicated by orange hints as inner violet florals cascade. It finishes long and lightly structured, leaving the mouth watering for more as a slightly salty tinge lingers. The 2018 from Le Potazzine is easily one of the top wines of this challenging vintage. That said, it is also more immediate." Vinous

"Le Potazzine delivers solid results thanks to the impressive location of its vines, which stretch across the crown of a plateau. The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino shows bright fruit with cherry and redcurrant, and this makes all the difference. Careful ageing in oak has intensified the flavours. I can also feel the effects of the careful ageing in the cellar in the mouthfeel, especially in the structure and tannins." Wine Advocate

"A sweet and savoury bouquet with lighter notes of cherry, vanilla and cedar that rivals balsamic vinegar, olives and stones. The palate receives a sour wave of dried cranberry, pomegranate and citrus before an astringent finish. This wine will make the whole table sit up straight and pay attention." Wine Enthusiast

"South-west area, from an altitude that was once considered forbidden for high-quality Brunello. Gigliola and her girls take up the challenge of sustainability both in the vineyard and in the cellar. A wine of masterful balance, with cornelian cherry on the nose, then pepper leaf, a hint of gardenia and eucalyptus. The mouthfeel is juicy and fruity, with excellent persistence." Luca Gardini

LUX VITIS comes from Cabernet Sauvignon vines over 12 years old and contains a small amount of Sangiovese. The 2019 vintage is rich and powerful, with full intensity. A core of dark cherries and blackberries on the palate, framed by sweet spices, bitter chocolate and campfire embers. As with the other wines in the Tenuta Luce portfolio, oak spice and tannins play an important role in the basic style expressed here. Only 6,600 bottles were produced. LUX VITIS will reveal its true treasure only with years of ageing. SUPERIORE.DE

"A rich and layered cabernet sauvignon with juicy fruit and lots of currant and berry aromas, as well as hints of spices. Full-bodied and flavorful with freshness and brightness at the end." James Suckling

"The Tenuta Luce 2019 Lux Vitis opens to an inky dark appearance with pressed blackberry, sweet cinnamon and cumin. There is some oak astringency on the tannins that will relax in time. Otherwise, this is a richly textured and concentrated red wine to drink on a cold winter evening by an open fire. The wine is almost full-bodied, but it actually feels more streamlined on the close." Wine Advocate

Here it is, the impressive first Gran Selezione from Riecine, showing more grace than muscle and delivering a Riecine-typical and very precise Burgundian interpretation of the Sangiovese grape.

The grapes come from the single vineyard of the same name in a 2.25 hectare Chianti Classico vineyard planted in 1971 with a density of 3,400 vines per hectare and situated on old terraces facing south. Riecine has leased these plots since the 1980s, and now the winery has managed to purchase this site, which is one of the best terroirs in the Chianti Classico area. So it is only logical that the 50th anniversary of the winery and the outstanding 2019 vintage should mark the debut of the new top wine. The bottles are numbered, just 3,233 0.Liters and 50 magnum bottles were bottled.

Spicy bouquet, delicate accents of vanilla and toasted bread that combine with notes of cherry, strawberry and violet. Rich in the mouth, with a solid structure and a long, polished final characterised by fruit, Mediterranean grass and a mineral note. Develops wonderfully - and should be one of the best Gran Selezione of the vintage "right off the bat". Congratulations on the anniversary! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with a gently brightening rim. Expressive nose, clear, initially of fine wild strawberries and some raspberries, red currants and delicate vegetal aromas in the aftertaste. Shows extremely elegant and polished on the palate, with tightly meshed, pithy tannin, very juicy on the back end, with minimally persistent tannin." Falstaff

"The 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna Gittori is a plump, juicy wine. Black cherry, leather, incense, tobacco and dried herbs meld together nicely in this attractive, curvy Gran Selezione. Deceptive in its mid-weight feel, the 2019 shows terrific depth and fine overall balance." Vinous

"Here is a new and exciting submission from Riecine in Gaiole in Chianti. The 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna Gittori is being released as a special way of commemorating the estate's 50th anniversary. The number 50 appears on the front label. This top-end wine comes off with dark fruit, austere spice and dry wood. Those are the aromas; however, the wine is surprisingly soft and silky in texture. It's a nice dual effect. 3,233 bottles and 50 magnums were released." Wine Advocate

"Blackberry, orange-peel and Spanish-cedar aromas. Exotic fruit, too. Full-bodied with seamless tannins and a very, very long finish. A benchmark Gran Selezione. Structured, yet fine at the same time." James Suckling

"Riecine's first ever Gran Selezione is a true beauty. It comes from the Gittori vineyard, a south-facing plot which sits above 500 metres, planted in 1971 - after renting it for 20 years, the estate was finally able to purchase it in 2019. The nose shows pure, precise fragrances of rose, wildflower, raspberry and spice. Fruit is at the fore, with integrated oak in the background – simply there to support. Youthfully plump and joyful at the moment, the succulent acidity and silky tannins bring vibrancy and alluring texture respectively. It has the depth and complexity worthy of Gran Selezione and is a glorious demonstration that the category isn't solely reserved for muscle-bound powerhouses." Decanter

Beguiling aroma of sweet, dark berries with a hint of cassis, cedar wood and antique leather. Very balanced on the palate, beautifully viscous with an elegant melt. Fine-meshed tannins, restrained mineral tones and wonderfully polished fruit accompany a remarkable finish. For all its elegance, it shows pressure and power and, with the right dose of acidity, promises a long life and almost reaches the level of its famous big brother. SUPERIORE.DE

"Le Serre Nuove dell'Ornellaia 2021 is the result of a first-class and extremely satisfying vintage and allows the good tannin quality and well-dosed concentration that characterise the wines of this vintage to shine through. In the glass, it impresses with a brilliant ruby red colour with the usual violet reflections. The nose is fresh with notes of pink pepper and cypress cones, reminiscent of the Mediterranean scrub. On the palate, the wine is elegant, with a beautiful acidity and a long, spicy final that invites you to take a second sip." Olga Fusari, Oenologist

"Almost black in the glass. Subtle fragrance, delicate fruity notes of blackberry, blueberry and some elderberry. A subtle hint of coconut wood. Dark fruity on the palate too, velvety with fine-grained tannins, embedded acidity and a fine herbal flavour. Very balanced and harmonious, young but with great potential. Long and fresh, juicy finish." Vinum

"The Serre Nuove is the second wine of the Ornellaia and is also a Bordeaux blend that consists of about half Merlot. Rich aroma with flavours of red-blue fruits such as blackberry, blueberry and ripe plums. The palate is also rich and dark-fruity with a velvety texture and fine-grained tannins, good acidity and a fine herbal flavour. Balanced and harmonious, still very youthful, but with great potential." Weinwisser

"The 2021 Bolgheri Rosso Le Serre Nuove dell'Ornellaia is a beautifully extracted and rich blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. This vintage is very generous, even opulent, with dark fruits framed by exotic spices, baking chocolate and soft toasty tones from French oak. The wine finishes on a creamy note with vanilla and cinnamon. The oak needs a few more years to integrate." Wine Advocate

"A sophisticated red wine, complex and perfumed, with aromas and flavours of blackcurrants, blackberries, plums, violets and iron. It builds beautifully, showing its balance and releasing the dense tannins at the end. This wine should develop well." Wine Spectator

"A powerful and straightforward red wine with blackcurrant, berry, chocolate and cedarwood flavours. It is medium to full-bodied. Fine tannins that extend over the entire length of the wine. It is dense and concentrated. Energetic and bright. Still needs time, better after 2026." James Suckling

"Sparkling, rich ruby red with a light violet rim. Noble and delicate nose of red currants, ripe plums and rich sour cherries, with a subtle hint of leather and a hint of mint in the background. Velvety tannins on the palate, well-balanced, with a fruity, elegant and long-lasting finish." Falstaff

"The 2021 Le Serre Nuove dell'Ornellaia has enormous power. Masses of dark fruit, dark chocolate, leather, liquorice and cloves saturate the palate. I can't recall a Serre Nuove with this much sheer power and dark intensity, but the balance is there, especially with aeration. It will be interesting to see how the 2021 develops. It's quite a powerhouse today." Vinous

"Pungent, meaty umami flavours dominate the nose, but dark fruit and a tangy, metallic component prevent these notes of smoke, pepper and tar from becoming overpowering. Undertones of vanilla and chocolate lift the fruit on the palate, but unyielding tannins and energetic acidity ensure that the savoury earthiness persists." Wine Enthusiast

Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is arguably the richest wine in Vietti's vintage roster. It is a monument based on performance, intensity and power. At the same time, Rocche is incredibly precise and complex every year. It is precisely this interplay of fullness and finesse that makes Rocche so enticing. Rose petals, mint and sweet red berries form a crescendo of aromas and textures that appeals to all the senses. In the almost endless reverberation, everything comes back into harmony as if by magic, leaving behind a Nebbiolo experience of the third kind. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, intense ruby with a fine garnet rim. The nose is characterised by intense notes of rose petals, ripe plums, some goji berries and cinchona bark in the background. Substantial and savoury on the nose, spreads out richly, dark fruit, then quite brittle tannin on the back end." Falstaff

"This red is vibrant, aromatic and expressive, exuding rose, strawberry, cherry, licorice, tobacco and tar flavors. Firm and balanced, with refined tannins and a racy finish." Wine Spectator

"Vietti's mighty 2017 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is extremely polished and sharp, showing the smallest details with microscope-like precision in this release of 3,512 bottles. Tart cherry fruit segues to spice, tarry smoke, licorice and a chiseled sense of minerality that adds ample volume and considerable focus. The wine displays alternating moments of dryness, with layers of cherry sweetness, and all this movement adds to the fluid, ever-changing nature of the bouquet. Vintage after vintage, this wine continues to push the boundaries for Barolo made in Castiglione Falletto." Wine Advocate

"The 2017 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione shows all the signatures of this site, all turned up to the maximum. I am not sure I have ever tasted a Vietti Castiglione with this much heft. Super-ripe dark red fruit, rose petal, mocha, dried herbs and menthol all build in an ample, resonant Barolo. Readers should be prepared to cellar the 2017 for the next handful of years, perhaps longer. A whole range of floral and savory notes punctuates the explosive finish." Vinous

"Exuberant and expressive, it overflows with sweet herbs, warm wetland, forest berries, black tea and bergamot. Though quite a mouthful, it remains well-hone as bright acidity lifts and sophisticated tannins wrap around the palate. A stunning wine with impressive mineral persistence. Vietti’s plots are in the central stretch of this MGA where the soil is richer in marl as opposed to sandier parcels further south. Luca Currado credits Rocche di Castiglione’s gentle southeast exposure - which escapes the hot afternoon sun - for maintaining freshness and fragrance in 2017." Decanter

"There’s clarity and energy to this, offering sweet strawberries and watermelon with fresh-rose and sandalwood undertones. Full-bodied with plenty of tannins, which are ultra-fine and polished for the vintage, giving the overall impression of elegance and finesse. Long. Classy." James Suckling

Vinified only in the best vintages and in small batches, Brunello di Montalcino PS Riserva comes from vines planted in the 1970s in Pelagrilli, one of the districts on the north side of Montalcino. The 2016 is deep yet translucent and offers wonderful intensity. The bouquet is fluid and graceful with a very precise and concentrated presentation. Dark cherry, plum, rose petal, spice, liquorice and new French oak are just some of the characteristics that excite us. The finish is silky and very long. Attractive tones of spicy smoked meat appear at the very end. A full and very focused Sangiovese from the top year 2016. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby garnet. Very clear and precise nose, shows beautiful matured fruit notes, plays between nuances of raspberry, cherry and strawberry, underpinned by spicy components. Shows compact and polished on the palate, lots of fine-meshed tannin in many layers, fine fruit, firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"Medium to deep ruby red. Deep, sweet cherry aroma with more than a hint of cardamom. Lots of maraschino cherry on the palate with supple acidity building to a very long, aromatic final with a perfect dose of chewy tannins. A baroque, dramatic wine." Jancis Robinson

"Broad, stimulating flavours of blackcurrants and blackberries, with elements of iron, tobacco and toasted spices. Accents of wild herbs add detail, while dense tannins flex their muscles on the long finish. Lively and concentrated, with energy and potential." Wine Spectator

"It's hard to tear yourself away from the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva PS, as a stunning blend of cool mint and menthol gives way to cloves, cedar chips, dried cherries and underbrush. This dark beauty impresses with a texture like crushed velvet, weighty and fleshy yet refined. Sour berries combine with hints of blood orange and inner herbal notes to create an interplay of salty and sweet tension. It's not the concentration or heady aromas or flavours that impress here, but the wonderful balance they all create. The 2016 Riserva PS finishes incredibly long, unexpectedly fresh, with fine-grained tannins and notes of liquorice and blackcurrant." Vinous

"From a small, precious cru of 1.5 ha in the Pellagrilli area, aged for 24 months in barrique, then in bottle, a wine of lush concentration. Red currant jam, with notes of lemon thyme and even sweet spices like cinnamon. The mouthfeel is dense and crisp, with saline tannins and a fruity, balsamic return on the finish." Luca Gardini

"This is a wine of impressive size and depth. The Siro Pacenti 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva PS is modern, bold, powerful and built like a brick wall. It offers plenty of concentration and richness of texture, but it also boasts a fairly dark ruby colour that is beautiful in the glass. It is a healthy, vibrant wine with plenty of aromatic character. The tannins are fruity and oaky (both of which ensure that the wine can age for a long time in the cellar), and it sits firmly on the palate, giving it creaminess and structure. Give it plenty of time to develop. With time (I tasted the bottle again 24 and 48 hours after opening), it reveals delicate nuances of mountain herbs, mint and violets. There are only 650 bottles of this vintage and some larger formats." Wine Advocate

"Enchanting nuances of blue fruits, raspberries and black cherries with flowers such as rosemary flowers and violets. Full-bodied with a dense and intense palate of ripe tannins that are fine and polished. So persistent and beautiful with focus and brightness. Lasts for minutes after. Try it after 2024." James Suckling

Tasty and multi-faceted super Tuscan made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. You can feel the weight and density of this blend with its immediate and opulent aromas of black fruits, plums and blackcurrants. Exotic spices, tobacco and campfire ash, together with a savoury oak note. Well-accentuated tannins, full and warm on the finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich ruby red with a slightly brightening rim. Rich blackberries and ripe sour cherries on the nose, forest floor in the background. Powerful but well-integrated tannins on the palate, juicy, with lots of red fruit and a long finish." Falstaff

"This is a very pleasant blend of cabernet, merlot and petit verdot, with lovely raspberry, redcurrant and floral character. Medium-bodied with nicely integrated tannins that firm up the finish a little." James Suckling

"This is a bold red wine that jumps right out at you in the context of the mostly Sangiovese-based wines made in this central part of Tuscany. The Tenuta di Lilliano 2019 Anagallis is a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot and 10% Petit Verdot that ages in new, second and third-passage barrique. The wine offers thick layers of dark fruit, blackberry and sweet oak spice over a full-bodied texture. Production is limited to 5,000 bottles." Wine Advocate

Deep bouquet of black berries and cocoa, violets and lavender. On the palate flavours of cherries, blackberries and wild berries, in the long finish the invigorating fresh impressions of medicinal herbs. A stately wine of the upper class. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Zenato 2016 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva Sergio Zenato is a thickly statured and rich red wine with lots of fruit weight, big intensity and a powerful 16.5% alcoholic content. The wine is redolent of ripe and dark fruit, and there are plenty of savory and smoky notes as well. The tannins are soft and dusty." Wine Advocate

"Radiant, dark ruby red. In the nose a beautiful spectrum of aromas, finely balanced between fruit and spice, plum, cherry, cinnamon, roasted hazelnut, noble wood. On the palate wonderfully dense and polished, compact, very juicy and with elegant pressure, spans a finesse-rich arc, harmonious in approach and course until the long final." Falstaff

"The Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva Sergio Zenato 2016 needs time to open up in the glass. It is dark and floral and smells of exotic spices, dark chocolate and, with time, red berries. It is velvety and opulent in style, powerful yet soft and enveloping with masses of medicinal berries and exotic spices, dark chocolate and balsamic herbs. The heady final is wrapped in a layer of grippy tannins, yet the expression remains remarkably fresh. You have to realise that this is a richer and riper Amarone, but it succeeds remarkably well." Vinous

"This graceful medium to full-bodied red is finely knit and harmonious, with a pleasing juiciness in the black cherry and black plum flavours, sandalwood, citrus and blackberry herbs. It shows supple, well-connected tannins that unfold on the long, spicy finish." Wine Spectator

"This remarkable Amarone was highly praised by the original jury and survived every further evaluation phase, so that its inclusion in our Best-in-Show collection was never seriously in question. It is already over five years old, but still very dark in the glass - and it is also a wine of remarkable aromatic complexity. Amarone lovers know how many allusions these wines are capable of evoking, and it is not difficult to detect mushrooms, forest undergrowth, truffles, Havana leaves and even wild violets in this wine's aromatic profile, as well as the usual confit cherries and plums. In the mouth, the wine is remarkably concentrated yet elegant, carrying this bundle of allusions effortlessly and seamlessly through the palate. The finely beaded tannins give it support, and the concentration of fruit is such that the acidity almost fades into the background." Decanter

"Unfathomable depth and complexity, with toasted dark liquorice, blackberries, tar, porcini mushrooms, mussels and black chocolate. A light touch of balsamic also adds a spicy edge. The seamless tannins gradually build on the full-bodied palate. Excellent balance between maturity, concentration and freshness, with a long finish. Drinkable now, but much better after 2025." 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"An expression of elegance in Serralunga", Luca Currado underlines at the tasting of Lazzarito, and we already agree with him on the nose. Gravel, pebbles, red fruits, rose petals, lavender and sage permeate this plastic and very lively Serralunga Barolo. Baroli from Serralunga d'Alba are often in a category of their own thanks to their richness and sheer abundance of fruit. The balsamic symphony opens the doors to a sip that is undoubtedly powerful, but at the same time refreshing and rich in vitamins. With added aeration, Lazzarito delivers mint and balsamic herbs. Lazzarito sets the pace and never loses its rhythm, the great texture of the tannins flanks this palate spectacle in an ideal way and we will discover much more about this great Barolo in the years to come. SUPERIORE.DE

"The round dance opens with fine-smelling notes of red berries and pepper; the attack is full-bodied, the tannins delicately chiselled and in symbiosis with the acidity, perfect evolution, elegant final. Great wine that can still mature." Vinum

"Blood oranges, red berries and hazelnuts; above all, lots of firm structure, casually austere and very taut, crisp and fresh, has a citrus touch and leafy notes, juniper, dark minerality, enormous tension, a still brittle beauty with lots of character, glides finely fruity into the long finish; super potential." Weinwisser

"Sparkling, brightening ruby garnet. Open and inviting nose with notes of cranberry, rose, pomegranate and dried orange peel. Grippy and grippy tannins fuel this wine, fine cherry and orange notes, final with leather, long finish." Falstaff

"On the nose, this wine is quite flamboyant, showing raspberries and grainy notes, along with a hint of fresh mushrooms. With air, some lighter passion fruit comes through. Medium-bodied with an intense core of vibrant fruit and youthful tannins that will add length and breadth to the wine over time. Wait for this wine. Taste it from 2024." James Suckling

"The 2018 Barolo Lazzarito is tense, lively and very closed in on itself. Burning tannins and serralunga structure dominate today. Gravel, pebbles, red fruits, rose petals, lavender and sage run through this plastic, vibrant Serralunga Barolo. What distinguishes Lazzarito most today is that it is stylistically more similar to the other Barolos than it was a few years ago. I expect great things here with time." Vinous

"Round and full of plum, cherry, pomegranate, green tea and eucalyptus aromas, this red wine is also dense and muscular. The finish is dominated by grippy tannins. Overall, it is balanced and very long." Wine Spectator

"Serralunga d'Alba, a magnificent site in the shape of an amphitheatre, with calcareous clay soil. A Barolo of excellent muscularity, nose with notes of wild mint, then raspberry and white pepper. The mouthfeel has spicy-salty tannins, depth, with great persistence and fruity return." Luca Gardini

"The 2018 Barolo Lazzarito represents Vietti's interpretation of Serralunga d'Alba, the village often associated with the appellation's most powerful wines. The Lazzarito completes its second fermentation in barrique over three months and is then transferred to large oak bottles where it ages for a further two years. With around 8,000 bottles produced in this smaller vintage, the wine is very indicative of its geographical origin with dense black fruit, rusty nail, blood orange and earth. Compared to the other wines in this series, this wine offers more persistent tannins. It's still a little salty and spicy now, but it lends itself well to long ageing." Wine Advocate

Beguiling aroma of sweet, dark berries with a hint of cassis, cedar wood and antique leather. Very balanced on the palate, beautifully viscous with an elegant melt. Fine-meshed tannins, restrained mineral tones and wonderfully polished fruit accompany a remarkable finish. For all its elegance, it shows pressure and power and, with the right dose of acidity, promises a long life and almost reaches the level of its famous big brother. SUPERIORE.DE

"Despite the sunny character of the vintage, Le Serre Nuove dell'Ornellaia 2022 is an expression of great elegance and freshness. The wine has a purple-red colour of great intensity and the nose exudes aromas of ripe black fruit, spices and lightly toasted wood. On the palate, it opens with a juicy, full-bodied attack and progresses on a rich tannin structure with beautiful density. The finish is soft and very long-lasting. Le Serre Nuove dell'Ornellaia is already a pleasure to drink. It will reach its perfect maturity in ten years." Marco Balsimelli, Direktor

"Rich, impenetrable, dark shiny ruby colour. Fine bouquet, subtle notes of blackcurrant, followed by mocha and cocoa. Impressive and delicate on the palate, elegant and expansive, well-integrated wood, finely meshed tannins, animating to drink, retronasal herbal spice and a long-lasting finish with a fine tannin structure." Falstaff

"A smooth red, this evokes cedar, plum, black currant, blackberry, vanilla and resin aromas and flavors. Broad and dense, with accents of leather, earth and tobacco on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"The brightness and purity of fruit is so beautiful here, showing flowers and currants. Very aromatic. Lots of finesse and focus on the medium-bodied palate with super-fine tannins and a lovely finish. Lively. Why wait on this?" James Suckling

This is a special Riserva from Michele Chiarlo that is late to the market. The Barolo Riserva Cerequio is a great wine, with particularly taut tannins and a concentrated richness that permeates its substantial textile fibre. The flavours of dark fruits such as blackberries and dried cherries are accompanied by spices, leather, tar and ashes from the bonfire. The wine shows the concentration and density of long oak ageing with tannins that definitely need more ageing before this exceptional wine will fully convince its connoisseurs! SUPERIORE.DE

"This red has settled into a nice groove, evoking fading cherry and ripe berry fruit, eucalyptus, menthol and mint notes, with an underlying mineral component. Tightens up on the finish, suggesting this still has some time to give." Wine Spectator

"Beautiful nose of dried red fruits, cherry chocolate, bergamot and bark with hints of citrus blossom and dry earth. So polished and refined with medium to full body and a compact tannin structure. It has savoury nuances in the fruit character and a minerality of gravel on the finish. Already attractive now, but can age further." James Suckling

"The 2016 vintage is still young. Held back for further aging at the winery, the Michele Chiarlo 2016 Barolo Riserva Cerequio has only begun to move away from primary intensity. Flavours of dried fruit and pressed roses follow through to a long, polished mouthfeel. The Cerequio is a full-bodied wine with rich fruit and savoury oak tannins." Wine Advocate

"Enchanting aromas of sour cherry jam, baking spices and rosewood only scratch the surface of what can and will emerge from this stunning Barolo. The palate strikes a firm note with a foundation of tannins and acidity built for the cellar, while tart red berry, aged tea and herbal flavours give an enticing aura to this wine." Wine Enthusiast

Luca Currado cultivates the Brunate Cru on the La Morra side of the vineyard (opposite the Barolo side) and this wine contains fruit from new plots. It convinces with an impressive aroma of red berries, cherries, wild herbs, mint, minerals and rose petals, rounded off by a hint of blood orange. On the palate we find a terrific softness and textural silkiness, this continues with hints of mint, liquorice and camphor ash for many minutes. Polished tannins round off this masterpiece into an extremely elegant Brunate. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sweet raspberries and strawberries on the nose, as well as some chalky minerals. Full-bodied with a tight bead of fruit and mineral flavors that have a hand on the firm tannins and produce good focus and drive at the end. Needs time to integrate. Try from 2025." James Suckling

"The 2018 Barolo Brunate is a deep, layered wine that is going to need at least a few years to come together. Today, the Brunate is quite primary and backward, but all the ingredients are there. Sage, menthol, licorice, dried flowers and spice build with a bit of coaxing." Vinous

"With fruit from La Morra, the mid-weight 2018 Barolo Brunate shows a pretty softness and a delicate side with dried rose, lilac and blue flower. The wine completes malolactic fermentation in barrique and is later moved into large oak casks for aging. This dual oak treatment is part of Vietti's secret recipe for producing the silky tannins and fine texture you taste here. A production of 4,493 bottles, the wine is recognized by that distinctive aromatic finale of licorice and balsam herb." Wine Advocate

"A refined, silky red marked by a mix of rose, strawberry, cherry, eucalyptus and white pepper aromas and flavors. Shows ample structure and fine intensity as this builds to a long, dusty, mineral-tinged finish. Harmonious, firm and fresh." Wine Spectator

"Municipality of La Morra, the south side of another prestigious cru, with calcareous-clay soil and the classic Marne of Sant’Agata. Plants of about 55 years that originate a wine with the nose of wild plum, then violet, ginger, pink grapefruit and licorice root. Sip with iodine tannins, with a return of the sensations of licorice." Luca Gardini

Vietti's Ravera is one of the great stars of Piedmont in its precision and structure. It uses fruit from Novello, from a site that looks out over the castle of the same name on the hill in the distance. This wine offers an impeccable balance between nose and mouth, showing immense purity and power in one package. Rose petals, chalk, pepper and a hint of pomegranate make this Barolo one of the most sought-after in the appellation every year. With some ageing, the powerful tannins give way to an elegant impression that does not deviate one millimetre from the coveted style of this great vineyard. A monument of Barolo, which only a few other winemakers in Piedmont besides Vietti and also Giacosa bottle with such consistency! SUPERIORE.DE

"Lighter structure this year, but it’s intense, with focused red-cherry and raspberry character and spicy and mineral nuances. Medium-bodied with firm tannins and a very tight finish. This is super-compact and needs time to expand. Try from 2024." James Suckling

"This red leads off with a distinctive minty note allied with cherry, iron, tobacco and underbrush flavors. Turns firm and linear on the finish, with a sinewy feel, yet remains fresh and long. Very pure." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Barolo Ravera is a wine of real depth and vertical structure. As always, the Ravera is a taut, nervy Barolo built on energy more than volume. Readers will have to be patient, as the Ravera is likely to require a number of years to be at its most expressive. Even in the early going, it is vibrant and full of life. Rose petal, chalk, blood orange and white pepper lend striking exotic top notes that are quite suggestive of what the future is going to bring. What a gorgeous Barolo this is." Vinous

"Vietti is one of a handful of estates to bring the Ravera MGA of Novello to the current popularity it enjoys now. Their 2018 Barolo Ravera has a smoky personality with crushed stone and pencil shavings. There is plenty of dark fruit at the back, ripe cherry and blackberry mostly, and the wine is tonic and firm in terms of its structure and tannins. The Ravera is a wine of enormous length and a finely tuned texture. Exactly 7,560 bottles were made." Wine Advocate

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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