wine classics

Le Macioche is a jewel of a vineyard with five hectares of vines and a picturesque forester's house surrounded by cypress trees. Cotarellas Riserva from the top 2016 vintage has a lot to offer and is characterised by firm, concentrated tannins and dense fruit. Forest berries, medicinal herbs, cola and potting soil on the nose. On the palate, red plums, dried cherries and lemon juice provide complexity and depth alongside the beautiful fruit centre. This is followed by a full body, perfect fine-grained tannins and a subtle, elegant final. Despite its complexity, this Riserva also displays a certain intensity and rigour. The bottles are numbered, less than 100 magnum bottles were bottled. SUPERIORE.DE

"Violet, camphor and mocha aromas pour from the glass, along with a hint of baked plum. The palate is soft and full-bodied, with fleshy flavours of black cherries, liquorice and tobacco as well as velvety tannins. It is already drinking well, but will continue to give pleasure for several years." Wine Enthusiast

"Just a stone's throw from the famous Salicutti winery, Le Macioche is a well-ventilated estate with warm, south-east to south-west facing vineyards. The scent of wild strawberries, cedar wood and rooibos tea is reminiscent of the altitude. The wine is fluid and light on its feet, with juicy acidity and finesse supported by terracotta-like tannins. A hint of toast marries with crisp redcurrants. It's ready to drink now, but its creeping depth will carry it for over a decade. There's already a fair amount of sediment, so make sure you decant it." Decanter

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva presents a dusty bouquet, where cedar shavings and dried roses pave the way to spiced cherries and a hint of sweet smoke. The wine feels light and delicate, with a silky texture that carries a vibrant mix of pure plum and strawberry fruit across the palate. The tannins kick in late and overwhelm the senses until the final, while inner flowers echo over a tactile layer of savoury minerals. This wine is absolutely classic, but it needs time to unwind. Very well done!" Vinous

"Le Macioche's 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Cotarella (sealed with a red wax capsule) is a polished expression of Sangiovese with beautifully ripened fruit framed by oak toast, spice and campfire ash. The wine shows a sweet, velvety side with dried cherry and redcurrant flavours, but these secondary oak influences play only a supporting role. The texture and length of the wine are further enhanced by cellar ageing. Any more toast would be too much." Wine Advocate

"Rich and dense, with flavours of cherries, raspberries, blackcurrants, violets, minerals and spices. The backbone of acidity provides definition and keeps this red wine lively from start to finish. Balanced, long and with outstanding potential." Wine Spectator

Elisabetta Geppetti's Saffredi is one of Italy's great red wines every year, full of elegance! Dark, polished ruby red colour with purple-violet edges. The explosive aroma of blackcurrants, blackberries, plums, violets and oak spices is accompanied by fascinating spicy, ethereal and wonderfully floral accents with earthy tobacco notes. Dense and velvety on the palate, framed by firm tannins and a juicy freshness that leads the wine full of energy into an endless finish. The flavour profile, which is very typical of Saffredi, is wonderfully balanced, yet multi-layered and very focused with its spiciness. Saffredi 2021 is a genuine and multi-dimensional beauty that should mature for a few more years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Complex, elegant bouquet with fine concentration and precisely contoured fruit body, a basket of blue berries and ripe red cherries, plus a floral backdrop, violets, Mediterranean herbs and maquis as well as undergrowth. Polished, clear and radiant on the palate, juicy and tightly woven with velvety, super-fine tannins, a radiant and elegant Saffredi." Weinwisser

"Spicy-berry perfume, cassis, lots of dark fruit flavours, also nuances of black pepper; the attack is compact, the tannins fine-grained, carried by a soft acidity, finishes long and multi-faceted. Also very successful in this vintage." Vinum

"Dark ruby red core with purple nuances. Blackcurrant and mulberry on the nose, on damp earth, dark chocolate and alabaster. Dense on the palate, with tightly woven tannins, precise fear, comes in many layers, powerful, but with great finesse and incredibly long." Falstaff

"The Fattoria le Pupille 2021 Saffredi offers a seamless integration of dark fruit flavours that segue directly into spice, Tuscan cigar and earthy orris root. This vintage is compact and firm, especially in terms of mouthfeel, and there are graceful floral tones to close." Wine Advocate

"This pure, intense red wine shows aromas and flavours of blackcurrants, blackberries, blueberries and violets, underlined by graphite and wild herbs. Very tightly wound, even racy, with invigorating acidity and refined tannins, this noble red wine leans more towards the elegant side, with a great harmony and length." Wine Spectator

"Fascinating aromas of sandalwood, lavender, sage and blackcurrant. Mint and spearmint. Pencil shavings. Also light coffee bean. Medium to full body with ultra-fine tannins. Lasts for minutes. Already so approachable now, but it will age beautifully. Best after 2026 and beyond." James Suckling

"The symbolic wine of the house, the first to put the winery and the region "on the map". Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot, nose of small black fruits, notes of laurel, mint and Mediterranean herbs, taut and dense drink, with salty tannins, closes with a fruity and oily return." Luca Gardini

Barolo Cerequio comes from vines over 35 years old and is characterised by exuberant aromas and bright, red-coloured fruit. The bouquet is enormously opulent with ripe fruit flavours ranging from wild cherry to redcurrant. There are also original notes of jam, plum and a hint of ragout. The palate is nuanced and very deep, with enormous complexity, volume and plenty of character. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling ruby red with garnet shimmer. Beguiling aromas of redcurrant and pomegranate, followed by white truffles and a hint of mint. Blood orange and pomegranate on the palate, extremely fresh, lively and complex, elegant melting, dancing acidity, grippy, deep tannins, persistent, powerful final." Falstaff

"There is a ripe element of boysenberry or pomegranate that gives this Barolo a slightly exotic character. Hibiscus, eucalyptus and tobacco notes are also prevalent as it firms up on the fresh, chalky finish." Wine Spectator

"Extremely fresh and perfumed with lavender, violets and fresh plums. Wonderful to smell. Full-bodied with firm and concentrated tannins that add structure and intensity. Excellent length. Fantastic for this vintage." James Suckling

"Vietti was able to buy a 9,000 square metre plot of Cerequio from Michele Chiarlo, who is arguably the king of this famous cru. And as it is a new addition to the portfolio, the Vietti team is still familiarising itself with the material. The bouquet of the Barolo Cerequio 2019, for example, reveals a fresh minty note. "This minty note was a mystery to us," says Luca Currado. "But then we realised that it was part of the Cerequio." On the palate, the wine has a firm grip, which expands and has a soft texture, but ultimately remains quite structured. Luca Currado tells me that "Cerequio is the brother and Brunate is the sister" of the La Morra Grand Cru vineyards. His wife Elena Penna adds: "We have never had two sites that are so close to each other and have such big differences." Wine Advocate

"The nose is intense, with notes of pomegranate, then wild mint, chinotto and a nice iodised finish. The flavour is spicy, with an iodine-fruity return, citrusy and enriched with mentholated notes." Luca Gardini

"The Barolo Cerequio 2019 is a worthy successor to the outstanding 2018. Aromatic and profound, the 2019 runs across the palate with remarkable depth and intensity. Crushed red berry fruit, rose petals, mint and cinnamon open up in the glass, but it is the silkiness and suppleness of the wine that impresses most. A kick of acidity and tannins puts an exclamation mark on the finish. This is a great Cerequio that soaks up all the finesse of this site and then turns up the volume. What a wine." Vinous

Angelo Gaja makes his wines with broad brushstrokes that form shapes of perfect harmony and grandeur, he makes them modern but never too fashionable. Rennina 2019 is a dark, lush and juicy red wine with a seamless overall integration. On the palate, bold fruit, oak spice, acidity and a well-knit tannin hold the overall composition together in an overwhelming and warm embrace. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium to deep ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Great nose of cherry with a hint of raspberry, becomes increasingly perfumed with aeration. The pinch of oak adds complexity. Juicy and polished with fresh, soft red fruit and a layer of fine-grained tannins. Energetic and direct." Jancis Robinson

"The Brunello di Montalcino Rennina 2019 captivates the taster with a beguiling blend of crushed ash stones and grilled herbs, which fade into red plums and purple pastilles. On the palate, it presents a silky texture and a wiry framework that gives it a sultry character. Salty mineral tones complicate the tart red berry fruits. Edgy tannins gather towards the end, accompanied by orange notes and a pleasant bitterness that lingers. At the moment, the Rennina is only on its feet, but I am very excited to see where this extremely flavoursome Brunello will develop." Vinous

"A powerful red, boasting macerated cherry, orange peel, plum, lavender, iron and eucalyptus flavors. Dense, dusty tannins emerge as this plays out on the long finish. Needs time." Wine Spectator

"Aromas of sweet cherries, roses, sweet tobacco and a hint of marmalade. Full and multi-layered. Lots of fruit. Juicy finish. Cheesy at the end and with air it becomes complex and very structured. Store it for a while. Best after 2027." James Suckling

"The Rennina bottling comes from three vineyards directly adjacent to the Pieve Santa Restituta winery in Tavernelle and, according to Angelo Gaja, is comparable to Barbaresco. The 2019 vintage was harvested between 12 September and 1 October and brings out the elegant side of Sangiovese. The sweet Mediterranean herbal nuances of tarragon, mint and sage are joined by cedar-like oak tones. Shiny, polished and balanced, but with an underlying tension, it shows red berries with a hint of bitter orange peel and tobacco on the palate. Finely powdered, loamy tannins cling confidently to the edges, while an appetising acidity permeates the core. Full-bodied but not heavy and with a satisfying crunch, this wine will be approachable before the sugarilla, but should last at least as long." Decanter

"The Brunello di Montalcino Rennina from Pieve Santa Restituta is characterised by its balance and the proverbial Gaja Madias touch, which always brings with it a particular creaminess or fruit concentration that harmonises perfectly with the wine's acidity and velvety tannin structure. The Pieve Santa Restituta 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Rennina is a blend of fruit from vineyards with different soil conditions and exposures. In this classic vintage, you can expect a wine that is firmly structured and important in mouthfeel, but also has delicate and soft nuances of wild rose, roasted cumin, campfire ash and grilled rosemary. The wine lingers on the palate and offers long-lasting flavours of black fruits." Wine Advocate

The grapes for the profound Le Vigne come from Baudana in Serralunga d'Alba (for the power), Villero in Castiglione Falletto (for the precision), Vignane in Barolo (for the purity of the flavours) and Merli in Novello (for the fullness of the fruit). It opens wide with aromas of fresh red fruit and a delicate spicy note. Very intense on the palate, remarkably elegant, fine-grained tannins, extremely clear, structured and long. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, intense ruby-garnet colour. Intense nose with notes of plum and wild raspberry, followed by some liquorice and cloves. Salty and juicy on the palate, shows fine cherry fruit at the front, then opens up with grippy tannins, good pressure on the final." Falstaff

"The Barolo Le Vigne 2020 is characterised by its brilliant aromatic intensity and great depth. Crushed rose petals, mint, blood orange, spices, lavender and pomegranate blend together. Le Vigne has slightly more aromatic vibrancy and vigour than the Aleste, but shares its sibling's sense of openness." Vinous

"Black cherry, raspberry and plum are wrapped in a veil of toasted oak in this red wine. Ripe and dense, yet with a sense of elegance, this wine lingers with fine balance and freshness on the finish, which is characterised by iron and eucalyptus." Wine Spectator

"The 2020 Barolo Le Vigne is open-textured with sun-drenched flavours. You get ripe fruit with black cherries, blackcurrants, forest floor and wild mushrooms. With time in the glass, the wine reveals floral definition, grilled tarragon herb and a heavier note of wheat pastry." Wine Advocate

"The flavours of blackberry, spice and tar are enticing and lead to a full but firm body that shows density and depth. The tannins are very well integrated and feel fused with the wine. Slightly bitter orange and mineral character on the finish. Complex and curated." James Suckling

"The wine is a bold expression of dark, macerated cherries, earthy undertones with the nuanced complexity of oolong tea and a medley of spices. The palate is characterised by a dark, smoky character dusted with spice, creating a big and commanding presence in the glass that shows the depth and power of the wine but never goes too far, maintaining an elegant line in the glass." Wine Enthusiast

Madonna del Piano is the top vineyard of Valdicava, named because of the small church there. A great Riserva with lovely tobacco notes and hints of sour cherries, the taste reveals a lovely texture and wonderfully resolved tannins. SUPERIORE.DE

"Here's a dark and well concentrated Brunello Riserva with meaty tones of smoked ham or bresaola backed by black cherry and prune. You'll get loads of leather and tobacco and the wine is bright and tart on the close with a fresh fruit finale. Excellent." Wine Enthusiast

"Offering a ripe bouquet of cherry and raspberry, this is the fruitiest of this decade. The primary fruit flavors are allied to a velvety texture, backed by a solid layer of tannins. Despite the feel of surmaturité here, the finish is fresh and superlong." Wine Spectator

"The 2004 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Madonna del Piano continues to develop very positively. This huge, concentrated Madonna del Piano dazzles for the richness of its fruit and the delineation of its aromas. The clean, vibrant finish suggests many years of cellaring potential. The Valdicava Brunellos are often misunderstood when young because they possess so much richness, but with time in bottle the wines turn more delicate and complete." Wine Advocate

"A full-bodied, firm and chewy wine with very polished and caressing, juicy tannins. Shows youth and prowess in its structure. Flavorful and persistent." James Suckling

Madonna del Piano - the top vineyard of Valdicava, which takes its name from the small church there. A great Riserva with lovely tobacco notes and hints of sour cherries, the taste reveals a lovely texture and wonderfully resolved tannins. SUPERIORE.DE

"Here is a big wine with lofty ambitions and an impactful presentation. The Valdicava 2010 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Madonna del Piano hits all the right buttons. The wine shows a profound sense of elegance and poise with subtle berry notes that blend into spice, licorice and tar. Those bright and lively aromatic components fold gracefully within the wine's tight texture, its sheer power and the silky nature of the tannins. This wine promises a long and steady aging future ahead." Wine Advocate

"Sumptuous, offering ripe aromas of plum, cherry, spice, earth, iron and tobacco. Velvety in texture and elegant, this nonetheless has an ironclad structure underneath. Firm and long, fresh, echoing tobacco and mineral. Seductive, yet reserved too." Wine Spectator

"A wine with superb finesse and depth. So subtle and understated yet powerful and long. The tannin intensity is amazing. It just builds like a massive wave. Superb. Give this time in the bottle. The length is endless." James Suckling

"The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Madonna del Piano is shaping up to be a real beauty. Powerful and dramatic, but also remarkably polished for such a big wine, the 2010 has a lot going on. Raspberry jam, wild flowers, spices, new leather, smoke and tobacco are laced into the powerful intense finish. The 2010 is an especially finessed Madonna del Piano with a bright future." Vinous

With the exceptional 2016 vintage, Falletto once again proves what this wine is capable of. Multi-layered bouquet with subtle sweetness, an inner fragrance and nuances that are generally only found in Giacosa's Red Label Riservas. The Falletto impresses with the intensity of its dark fruits and the excellent overall balance. The extroverted personality of the vintage is evident, especially when the wine meanders in the glass for some time left to its own devices. Menthol, flowers and liquorice give the wine refined complex notes on the finish. This is a particularly racy Barolo from Bruno Giacosa, which also has an impressive characteristic elegance! SUPERIORE.DE

"A massive wine from Serralunga, this displays dense cherry and red-fruit aromas that are solid and brooding. Full-bodied with firm tannins that are chunky now, this has immense concentration and force, if not the ethereal quality that marks Giacosa's supreme wines. But it's balanced, with the high alcohol not discernible, and given the slight furriness on the very long finish, this needs time." Decanter

"This pretty red offers distinctive mint, black tea, cherry, tar, iron and tobacco aromas and flavors. Firm and dry, with the tobacco and tea notes echoing on the finish. Shows plenty of finesse." Wine Spectator

"This is a really dense red with intensity and beauty, showing dried fruit, such as strawberries, as well as chocolate, tar, hazelnuts and meat. Really complex and rich. Opulent, yet tense with dusty tannins. Extremely long. Great finish. Hard not to drink now, but will age incredibly well. Try after 2025." James Suckling

"The Bruno Giacosa 2016 Barolo Falletto (white label) brings us another extraordinary expression from a classic vintage. Serralunga d'Alba fruit is full, generous and thickly layered in a manner that you always hope to encounter when lucky enough to drink pedigree Nebbiolo. There is enormous density here and power and grace; however, the Barolo Falletto is seemingly weightless and ever so delicate as it warms smoothly over the senses. Crisp cherry and blackberry are followed by delicate tones of crushed stone and iron ore. Bright tones of grilled herb and blue flower lift gently from the bouquet and add to the balanced intensity of this collectors' vintage." Wine Advocate

Sparkling, deep ruby red. In the bouquet a cornucopia of small red berries and red fruits. Complex and intense on the palate, with a refinement unparalleled in the 2012 vintage. We discover dark cherries, plums, camphor and a complexity that reveals more and more structure and personality with increasing air supply. In the finale, finely underlaid wood seasoning and a surprising freshness, which already today hints at a wonderful ripening cycle. Big and monumental! SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2012 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Madonna del Piano is a dark and thickly extracted expression. It is one of the blackest Brunellos you will find in this report. This rich red wine takes a little longer to open because those primary aromas are buried deep under all that bulk and power. Indeed, this wine is almost too much of a good thing. It moves with slow-motion laziness, and the bouquet is in absolutely no rush to show what it has in store. At its leisure, it will deliver dried blackberry, cassis, bitter chocolate, spice, campfire ash and sticky tar. There is some tannic astringency that will (hopefully) integrate with time. This is a hearty and satisfying wine to drink in the heart of winter with gentle snowflakes fluttering outside your window. It is a romantic wine in heart and soul." Wine Advocate

"Deep ruby-red. Toasty oak and vanilla complicate red cherry and underbrush aromas and flavors. Then rich, dense and concentrated, but lovely violet lift provides clarity and cut to the suave flavors of red cherry, red currant, flint and vanilla. Much deeper and richer than the 2013 Brunello from Valdicava, this beautiful wine finishes very long and ultra-smooth. It is the best wine I have ever had from this estate." Ian d’Agata (vinous.com)

"A complex red with rose petals, violets, crushed stones and cherries follows through to a full body and chewy tannins that are poised and polished. Extremely long and intense. A top wine for the vintage. This needs three or four years, maybe more, to come together." James Suckling

The grapes for Guido Berlucchi's prestige product Franco Ziliani come from the best parts of the Arzelle vineyard, which is sustainably cultivated with a very high density of 10,000 plants per hectare using the Guyot system. The vineyard consists of deep moraine soils that produce grapes for excellently structured Chardonnay base wines. Just 5,000 0.75-litre bottles and 863 magnum bottles were bottled from the 2008 vintage, which then matured on the lees for 140 months.

Intense straw yellow with lively golden reflections. A rich mousse, persistent crown and very fine perlage in the glass. On the nose, it has a complex, multi-layered aroma of yellow-fleshed fruit, pastries and candied orange. On the palate, it is characterised by extreme freshness, a disarmingly clean taste and a firm structure. Wonderful acidity, persistence and great ageing and development potential. SUPERIORE.DE

Dark cherry red. Complex nose with aromas of wild berries, fine spices and dried meat, combined with cedar wood and earthy notes. In the drink then powerfully after black cherry, blackberry, plum, red rose blossoms and a tender toast note. Wonderful in the long finish with hints of pepper and exotic spices. A great Riserva from a great vintage with cult potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, intense ruby-garnet. Appealing, intense nose with notes of blackberry and dark cherry, some liquorice. On the palate, beautifully worked out, juicy fruit, after cherries and plums, strong, hearty tannin, in the final firm pressure. Falstaff

"Deep ruby. Slightly reticent nose hints at black cherry, herbs and flint. Then juicy and bright, with deep flavors of minerals, blueberry and red cherry, complicated by peppery herbs. Closes long with repeating mineral nuances. A sleeping giant, the fruit is having a tough time emerging currently but I’d say there’s plenty there, just lying beneath the wine’s noble tannic cloak. Cellar this very refined Brunello for five or six years to see how it develops." Vinous

"Ripe, offering cherry, plum and floral aromas and flavors, matched to a rich texture. Tobacco and iron notes emerge as this builds to a lengthy finish. A touch dry on the finish, but the sweet fruit returns in the end." Wine Spectator

"Earthy aromas of wild berry, new leather, truffle and exotic spice emerge from the glass. The concentrated, vibrant palate delivers dried black cherry, licorice, tobacco and black pepper alongside fine-grained tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"Showing ripe and balanced fruit, the Valdicava 2013 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Madonna del Piano offers many very positive attributes. The wine flaunts a slightly contemporary or international side, and it does so with extreme confidence and elegance. Much of that natural balance comes directly from the classic vintage that exhibits both the structure and acidity necessary for prolonged cellar aging. Now, in the wine's youngest phase, it offers lush primary cherry and blackberry flavors followed carefully by measured spice, toast and red rose potpourri." Wine Advocate

"This opens with savory, truffle and meaty aromas with a complex and quite cryptic nose that delivers a wealth of ripe plums and cherries, cedar and fresh, violet-like flowers, as well as some earthy nuances. The palate has a very sturdy, intense and power-charged core of rich plums and dark cherries, framed in quite fierce tannins that are so long. Super Brunello Riserva here with great potential." James Suckling

"This is one of the 50 wines that have changed Italian wine culture." Gambero Rosso

Siepi 2020 impresses even at a young age with its volume, fruit and richness. It is made from equal parts Merlot and Sangiovese and both grapes bring their best qualities to the blend. The Sangiovese grape shows a distinct personality with localised notes of small berries and spices and also offers a wonderfully fresh acidity. Merlot plays a strong role in the background, adding softness, fullness and richness. Siepi is an intense, powerful wine that has a terrificarc of tension, ranging from its highly attractive extract sweetness to polished tannins in a fresh, savoury finish with an interesting salty note. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Siepi 2020 consists of half Sangiovese and half Merlot. The former is matured in large wooden barrels, the latter in 70% new barriques. On the nose, the Siepi has a very finely honed and clear Sangiovese fruit, with a purist face and excellent depth. In the mouth, too, the Merlot appears to have little aromatic presence. Rather slender and full of finesse on the tongue, the Siepi is clearly defined and very elegantly differentiated." Weinwisser

"Black cherry and blackberry, wrapped in a coat of toasted, resinous oak. Cedar and iron notes give the wine depth on the long finish. It opened up after an hour in the glass and showed its polish, but still needs time to absorb the oak." Wine Spectator

"Dark ruby colour with a drop of violet. On the nose, rich cherry fruit, blackberries, fine chocolate and leather, delicately characterised, exciting. Expressive and radiant on the palate, with compact, dark berry fruit and polished, creamy tannins, without denying its Tuscan roots, grippy and powerful on the finish." Falstaff

"Transparent carmine red colour with a pale rim. Penetrating, ripe aroma, probably due to the Merlot, but without too much sweetness. The palate shows the spice and vibrancy of the Sangiovese. But these two elements already seem to be beautifully combined with a slight hint of tea. Long. Already a really beautiful expression of the fruit of the Tuscan hills. Good balance between freshness and ripeness." Jancis Robinson

"The 2020 Siepi is stylish, elegant and highly polished. Dark blue fruits, lavender, new leather, cloves and mocha blend together effortlessly. The 2020 is characterised by a precision that is incredibly inviting. Nevertheless, the 2020 is still very young and does not fully express its potential. It simply needs time to develop, but all the elements are there." Vinous

"The nose balances dense, fiery aromas of grilled meat, pepper and gunpowder with lighter, friendlier notes of cherries and wild berries. The berries take a leading role on the palate, but the spicy smokiness lingers as an assertive undertone, leading into a hot finish. Tannins have grit without being rustic, emphasizing a saliva-inducing savoriness throughout." Wine Enthusiast

"Dried herbs and sweet spices on the nose, forest notes with blackberry fruit, concentrated and expressive. On the palate, the tannins glide gently over the tongue and give the sweet strawberry, raspberry and plum fruit time to develop in the mouth, while the acidity provides a pleasant mouthfeel. This wine is very lively and vibrant - it shouts loudly for its energy. It feels extremely good, with clear definition, finesse and balance. Such a marvellous fruit profile, the high-toned strawberry and cherry, bright and penetrating, but also round and generous with tobacco and wood nuances. The fine but present tannins are very present and give grip. All in all, an exceptionally beautiful wine. I love it. It offers an immediate and youthful pleasure, but it will continue to age well." Decanter

"Graphite and pencil come through, along with violets and blackberries. Also some tar and tarmac. Full-bodied, but creamy and crisp, with an agile liveliness that lasts for minutes. Fabulous length. Drinkable now, but it will continue to mature for decades." James Suckling

The great Barolo Ciabot Mentin Ginestra from the historic Clerico vineyard. Bright garnet red colour. Open-hearted bouquet of ripe fruit and spices, the elegant tannins are accompanied by a pleasant freshness in the complex flavour, deep and long on the finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich ruby red with brightening edges. Inviting aroma of cherries, ripe raspberries and plums, leather and sweet tobacco. Powerful and juicy on the palate, precise fruit flavours." Falstaff

"Firm and quite deep, youthful aroma of ripe black and red berries with moderate, slightly bitter-chocolatey wood spice, tobacco notes and floral traces, tomato essence, roasted notes and a hint of pepper. Ripe, firm, tart-juicy fruit, youthful, quite present, yet polished tannins, smoky and very slightly roasted notes, a certain acid bite, a little coffee in the background, salty minerality, certain depth, still completely undeveloped, has freshness and tension, very good, tart-juicy and again somewhat smoky-spicy finish with bite." Wein-plus

"Perfumed and beautiful, with notes of sliced berries, melon, citrus and flowers on the nose. Full-bodied with juicy tannins, chewy and beautiful. Focussed and spicy on the finish. Very transparent and concentrated. Try after 2027." James Suckling

"An imminent but solidly structured red wine characterised by aromas of cherry, eucalyptus, tar, iron and tobacco. It tightens up on the finish, leaving behind compact, mouth-coating tannins. Should develop into a core of pure, ripe fruit in the future." Wine Spectator

"The Domenico Clerico 2019 Barolo Ginestra Ciabot Mentin is a little closed at first. This is a characteristic I found in a vintage that gives us good reason to focus on long bottle ageing. There are dark fruits and spices with liquorice and grilled herbs. Rusty mineral nuances also slowly emerge from the bouquet. This wine needs a double decant if drunk young, but it's better to wait. When I returned 24 hours later for my open tasting, the wine sang beautifully." Wine Advocate

"Nose with hints of black cherry under spirits, touches of wild mint, cinnamon and fresh thyme. In the taste savory tannins, fruity-balsamic and officinal notes. Long lasting persistence." Luca Gardini

"The Ciabot Mentin was planted in 1978 in Ginestra, between 390 and 420 metres above sea level - relatively high for Barolo - but mostly with an eastern exposure, which enhances the freshness and elegance of this wine. The 2019 is indeed cool, with a fresh violet scent, a certain meatiness and black cherry fruit and an almost rosemary-like aromatic character. Its extreme youth is emphasised by crisp acidity and supple, velvety tannins. A very precise wine, still complex and ripe, but also full of potential for the long haul." Decanter

Around 60% of the grapes for the Monvigliero are not destemmed, which enhances the aromatic nuances of the wine. Youthful notes of raspberry and blueberry are flanked by black pepper, gentian, porcelain and black olives. On the palate, it has a beguilingly soft texture, fine and creamy, accompanied by wonderful flavours of laurel and flowers. Monvigliero from Verduno impresses with its purity, its sheer serenity and its class. Excellent every year and unfortunately very rare. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, brightening ruby-garnet colour. Memorable nose of sweet, ripe raspberries, dark cherries and pickled peach. Polished and supple on the attack and on the palate, lots of fine-meshed tannins, fine raspberry fruit, then full-bodied pressure on the final, but also somewhat rough on the final." Falstaff

"The Barolo Monvigliero 2020 is a relatively new vintage for Vietti. It is soft and delicate with pretty floral aromas, dried iris, powdery spice and a hint of tar or road surface. The inaugural vintage was 2018 and the wine, which is made from 60% whole bunches during fermentation, has a tart moment, powerful notes, sweet grenadine and cranberry jelly." Wine Advocate

"Top notes of rose, strawberry and cherry are underscored by earth, menthol, iron and tobacco flavors in this elegant yet intense red. Fluid, with a texture that borders on viscous and excellent definition on the long, complex finish." Wine Spectator

"Monvigliero is one of the most elegant crus of Verduno, one of the coolest areas of Barolo, which produces wines of rare grace. Vietti's 2020 is a delight, characteristic of the year, full of cinnamon, violets, raspberries and vibrant depth. The zesty acidity blends seamlessly with the velvety, light but flavoursome tannins, and the wine only lightens up a little on the finish." Decanter

"Prepare to be enchanted by a Barolo that rises effortlessly from the glass with aromas of crushed raspberries, wild strawberries and juicy red cherries mingling with delicate rose petals and violets. A subtle hint of stemminess adds a seductive complexity to the bouquet that will leave you mesmerised. The palate is full-bodied, revealing layers of juicy redcurrant, pomegranate and a hint of sweet spice. This beautiful wine shows the finesse and grace of Nebbiolo, with silky tannins and bright acidity creating a harmonious balance. This stunning Barolo is a testament to the winemaker's skill and the region's unique terroir." Wine Enthusiast

"One of Vietti's palest and most perfumed Barolos, with a transparent ruby-orange colour. This is a super nuanced, elegant, expressive and ethereal Monvigliero that grows on me, with enchanting notes of grilled grapefruit, thyme, frozen raspberries and minerals. A subtle hint of white pepper and a mezcal-like smokiness. Really refined and transparent, with some citrus and mineral notes closely linked to the fine, crumbly tannins. So much finesse and detail here, and its complexity will continue to unfold. Truly composed, soulful and stunning! A great wine that deserves attention. Best enjoyed with a Burgundy glass." James Suckling

A wine that is only vinified in the very best years and then presents a breathtaking beauty with each edition. In depth, purity and structure, it is the archetype of a Brunello. It beguiles with a mix of sage, rosemary, tobacco, wild flowers and cloves through to a nuanced and endless finish. It is punchy and seductive at the same time and has great personality. Chapeau! SUPERIORE.DE

"This is a late-release 2015 with extremely attractive blackberry, black-cherry and floral aromas, as well as hints of spices. Full-bodied with wonderfully integrated tannins that are polished yet powerful. Long, persistent finish, showing real purity of fruit. Try after 2023, but already impressive." James Suckling

"The Le Potazzine 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is released a year after most other Riservas hit the market (most of this winery's peers are now selling the 2016 vintage). This pretty wine is open-knit and rich, showing nice textural support. It is redolent of dried cherry, blackberry, light spice, tar and smoke. This special selection of fruit shows elegant results in this hot and sunny vintage." Wine Advocate

"The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva captivates as it slowly blossoms in the glass, but this is a wine that is truly worth waiting for. With each swirl, a bouquet of mentholated cherry, autumnal spice, shaved cedar and Tuscan dust gains amplitude and richness. The textures are undeniably elegant, communicating opulence while also stimulating the senses with salty minerals and an inner smokiness that I find wildly compelling. An intense array of red currants, licorice and savory spice fills the senses and translates directly to the finale, where regal tannins saturate, promising a remarkably long life. Only 3,000 bottles of this beauty were produced." Vinous

Currá is an archaic long-distance runner and presents itself very aristocratically with increasing bottle maturity or also good aeration even when young. Then it reveals dark berries and a fine chocolate note in the bouquet. In its style, it is edgy at first, but then at no point denies its greatness and harmony. Tobacco, plums, smoke and tobacco: with every glass, this exceptional wine reveals new facets and a firework of impressions. This is Nebbiolo from 65-year-old vines at the highest level! SUPERIORE.DE

"Tasted blind. Medium ruby red with orange reflections. Pretty nose of cherries and raspberry jam with hints of oak and liquorice. Generous fruit that is not yet fully open on the palate, with a fine nerve of ripe acidity. Ripe, chewy tannins frame the fruit on the long finish." Jancis Robinson

"This red is concentrated and packed with cherry, plum, tar, iron and underbrush flavors. It's fluid and supple, with a mass of sinewy tannins guarding the finish." Wine Spectator

"Fragrant and concentrated, it offers enticing aromas of roses, violets, wild berries and Asian incense. Firm and straightforward, the angular palate evokes red cherry, cranberry, star anise and a hint of white pepper, accompanied by tightly wound, fine-grained tannins. It is still young and austere, but balanced, with lively acidity. Give it plenty of time to develop fully." Vinous

"Fragrant and concentrated, it offers enticing aromas of roses, violets, wild berries and Asian incense. Firm and straightforward, the angular palate evokes red cherry, cranberry, star anise and a hint of white pepper, accompanied by tightly wound, fine-grained tannins. It is still young and austere, but balanced, with lively acidity. Give it plenty of time to develop fully." Wine Enthusiast

"Here is a little leap back in time to a vintage with great personality and character. The Sottimano 2015 Barbaresco Currá is a majestic expression that unfolds to reveal dark fruits, spices and carefully developed aromas of tar, liquorice and spent embers. Previous vintages of this wine started slow and closed (this is one of the age-worthy characteristics of Currá), but the warm and sunny 2015 vintage starts with high aromatic intensity." Wine Advocate

Baroli from Serralunga d'Alba are often in a category of their own thanks to their richness and sheer abundance of fruit. Lazzarito stands on an impressive base of robust fruit and power, rising in intensity thanks to its wonderfully elevated bouquet. It shows direct and solid lines with blackberries, plums, spices, tar, liquorice, candied orange peel and truffle-infused earth. A second wave of flavours offers dark minerals, iron ore and rust. With additional aeration, it delivers mint and fine balsamic herbs and will fully delight with further bottle ageing. SUPERIORE.DE

"Finely chiselled yet powerful nose of raspberries, spices and dried flowers, enveloped in balsamic nuances; engaging acidity and wonderfully modelled tannins, long, fresh and fruity yet extremely elegant. A great wine." Vinum

"Powerful ruby colour with a clear garnet hue. Impressive nose with rich notes of rose petals, wild raspberries and some liquorice. Fine-meshed tannins, opens up in many layers, notes of cranberries and blood orange, very good tension." Falstaff

"Starts with an open feel, displaying cherry, peach, iron, tar and tobacco flavors before firming up. This lively red builds to the long aftertaste of red licorice, tobacco and earth." Wine Spectator

"Tar and dark minerality. Lots of wild berries, dried orange peel, frozen grapefruit and raspberries. Very structured and full-bodied, with firm, chewy tannins that give the wine a bold, austere quality. But in the end it is concentrated and taut, with a crisp, savoury finish full of length." James Suckling

"The Lazzarito stands out as one of the strongest wines in this portfolio of new releases from Vietti. With fruit from Serralunga d'Alba, the 2020 Barolo Lazzarito achieves a very high level of complexity, offering dark cherry, crème de cassis, violet macaron, dried herbs and lavender. The aromas of the wine remind me of the south of France in summer. It shows elegant tannins, a lean intensity and good acidity." Wine Advocate

Barolo Ravera is a wine of great impact and power, and it is also a wine of the future. This is because Ravera (in the municipality of Novello) is one of the best vineyards that never ceases to surprise and impress, despite the changing climate. Thanks to the high altitude and the open view of the snow-capped mountains, the microclimate is well ventilated but protected at the same time. On the nose, freshly cut flowers, white pepper and mint, shy at first but very energetic and straightforward as the wine progresses. On the palate, preserved dark cherries, lavender, mint, crushed stones and hints of sage. All in all, a powerful, breathtaking and deep Barolo, endowed with great purity and beautiful transparency. A stunning wine! SUPERIORE.DE

"Modern, powerful bouquet, ripe red and pale blue fruit, berries preserved in alcohol, orange peel. Meltingly dense, powerful on the palate, fine tannins, incredibly juicy, mouthwatering, clear, modern and still young, but this has substance and a future." Weinwisser

"Refined combination on aromas of raspberries and flowers; polished, the tannins precise, has race, fullness and ends multi-faceted on fruit and balsamic flavours. Perfect with a juicy beef steak!" Vinum

"Sparkling, medium-dense ruby colour with a slight garnet shimmer. Finely characterised nose of fresh plums, blackberries and pickled peach. Exciting play on the palate, lots of juicy fruit, paired with grippy, fine tannins, compact and with firm pressure, earthy tones on the final." Falstaff

"Cherry and eucalyptus flavors lend a tug between the fruit and savory elements in this fresh and complex red. Rose, tar, tobacco and leafy notes add interest as this turns dry on the finish." Wine Spectator

"On the nose, it immediately captivates with a blend of black, macerated cherries and a unique note of crushed vitamins, complemented by delicate baby roses and fresh green herbs. On the palate, the wine shows a robust structure, with firm and chewy tannins that grip the tongue. When the wine opens up, its true potential is revealed." Wine Enthusiast

"The Barolo Ravera 2020 has a lot of Ravera classicism and tension. Ravera is never a huge wine in body, but the depth is often there, even if expressed in an understated and more linear way. Reddish fruit, blood orange, mint, spice and white pepper give it brilliance throughout." Vinous

"The Vietti 2020 Barolo Ravera offers dark fruits, cherries and blackcurrants, accompanied by a gentle spiciness. There is also a sun-drenched note of aubergine, tomato leaves and ferruginous earth. The Ravera shows strong lines with good acidity and a firm tannin backbone. It finishes dry and matures exclusively in large oak barrels. Ravera, with its open mountain backdrop and cool temperatures, is considered one of the best sites in the appellation, especially when the climate changes." Wine Advocate

"Perfumed, composed and agile with notes of cherries, wild strawberries, white pepper, frozen raspberries, dried flowers and some stone. Full-bodied with fine, chalky tannins and crisp acidity. Bright and vertical with controlled power. Textured and subtle. Great tension and energy in the mid-palate and long, concentrated finish." James Suckling

Rocche di Castiglione is prized for its pure white, chalky soils, which produce wines of exceptional finesse and a wide range of flavours. For lovers of timeless Nebbiolo, it is a real hit. The vines are located not far from the winery, which blends into the stone walls and urban fabric of the village of Castiglione Falletto. The vineyard is about one hectare in size. Rocche di Castiglione is a curiously shaped and elongated MGA with a unique south-east exposure along a steep ravine, with Bussia to the west and Perno to the east. This site is characterised by freshness, extreme precision, straightforwardness, structure and balanced freshness. This naturally concentrated vintage also displays a juicy quality that is simply outstanding. Pretty mineral notes contribute to the balance and elegance. SUPERIORE.DE

"A dense, solidly built version, whose core of cherry and raspberry fruit is accented by iron, wild herb and juniper notes. Focused by vibrant acidity and underlined with chalky tannins, this red is long and detailed on the finish." Falstaff

"Charming and enticing with flavours of sweet cherries, strawberries, cedar, dried herbs and some baking spices. Sensational concentration with a lively mid-palate on the full to medium body. The fine and firm tannins are harmoniously balanced by the juicy redcurrants and crisp acidity." James Suckling

"The Barolo Rocche di Castiglione 2020 is a very distinctive wine with sharp ferrous notes, cherry-cola, redcurrant and chalky minerals. It is very precise in its flavours. It comes across as direct and multi-layered, showing different sides and gaining complexity the further it opens up in the glass. Delicate notes of dried flowers, violet blossom and iris can also be recognised. The chalky tannins feel abrupt at this young stage, but this wine is still built to last. Only 3,512 bottles were produced." Wine Advocate

"The Barolo Rocche di Castiglione 2020 is a magical wine from a magical vineyard. It combines finesse and volume to an extent not found in most other wines in this range. Castiglione Falletto is quite literally the centre of the Barolo growing region, a place where many different types of soil come together. As a result, the wines often display an astonishing balance, which is very much the case here." Vinous

Rabaja and Asili are probably the most famous vineyards in Barbaresco. Medium, delicately fragrant nose of rose petals, cherries and blue flowers, with restrained ethereal herbal notes. Powerful and compact on the palate, with a well-proportioned cornucopia of black fruits such as blackberries and cassis, plus some liquorice. As the wine progresses, its power and a certain pressure become apparent, but it never comes across as wild or ostentatious, instead always reflecting the elegance of the vineyard and the typical Giacosa ageing in large oak. Impressive flavour and length! SUPERIORE.DE

"Aromatic and spicy, this red delivers cherry, strawberry, rose, anise, thyme and mineral notes backed by a solid spine of tannins. Vibrant, complex and balanced, with a silky texture and a lingering aftertaste of fruit and savory elements." Wine Spectator

"The Rabajà will still need some time in the bottle. At this young stage, it shows a pretty ensemble of dark berries, crushed rose, white stone and dusty liquorice root. Patience is required here." Wine Advocate

"Very fragrant and complex, with mandarin, jasmine, cedar, black truffle and iron. Full-bodied and very structured. Fantastic structure for this vintage. Very Barolo-like in structure. Give this wine at least four or five years to mature." James Suckling

Deep dark sparkling ruby with a fine garnet rim. On the nose, a colourful bouquet of black cherry, elderberry, graphite and a strong cassis note. On the powerful palate, the black fruits again, plus a wonderful balance and freshness with a picture-book tannin that further rounds off the perfect impression. Fine energy and harmony. SUPERIORE.DE

"Translucent ruby. Perfumed raspberry with lift. Fragrant and long and with a layer of long, fine-ground tannins that go on and on. Elegant but still compact, while the tannins add depth as they cling to the elegant, fragrant fruit." Jancis Robinson

"A broad, solidly built red with plum and cherry fruit framed by vanilla, caramel, leather and menthol accents. It shows muscular tannins that unfold on the long, spicy finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Barolo Arborina is laced with dark cherry, graphite, dried flowers and licorice. It is an especially dark, almost somber Arborina, with huge, incisive tannins that are quite dominant at this stage. It will be interesting to see how the 2019 ages. Based on several decades of tasting these wines, I think it will age quite well, but remain a brooding powerhouse." Vinous

"Radiant ruby garnet. Fragrant nose, finely drawn, slightly earthy, wild strawberries, blood orange, dried rose petal, cool. On the palate with pithy, very juicy tannin, powerful, elegant, precise, pleasantly mouthwatering on the final." Falstaff

"With fruit from the Altare family's historic vineyard, with rows that descend from the panoramic terrace in front of the tasting room, comes the 2019 Barolo Arborina. This wine boasts a unique flavor profile with more emphasis on tart fruit, cassis and crisp cherry. The wine is soft and velvety to the palate, and it shows finely integrated tannins coupled with a solid textural frame. Arborina is not one of the historic crus of the appellation, but it is an excellent site that is celebrated for its consistent wines." Wine Advocate

"Transparent and bright with floral, orange peel and lavender. Medium to full body. Firm and racy tannins. Chewy and velvety. Purity is the right word to describe it. Drink after 2028." James Suckling

Rabaja and Asili are probably the most famous sites in Barbaresco. Medium, finely fragrant nose of rose petals, cherries and blue blossoms, with restrained ethereal herbal notes. On the palate, powerful, compact and with a well-proportioned cornucopia of black fruits such as blackberry and cassis, plus some liquorice. As the wine progresses, it shows its power and a certain pressure, which, however, never comes across as wild or ostentatious, but always reflects the elegance of the site and the Giacosa-typical ageing in large wood. Impressive aroma and length! SUPERIORE.DE

"The Bruno Giacosa 2017 Barbaresco Rabajà is a fine and delicate wine that throws a curveball at our expectations of this notoriously hot and dry vintage. The wine is exceedingly generous when it comes to its fruit, especially its blackcurrant and plum, but what steals the show is that elegant mineral note that so seamlessly cedes to spice, licorice and cinnamon. Rabajà is one of the most distinctive growing sites in Barbaresco, thanks to its white stony soils that leave such a strong imprint on its wines. The wine is remarkable for its nicely linear and delicate style, but it ultimately proves its power and determination on the palate over many long minutes." Wine Advocate

Vietti's Brunate parcels are located on the La Morra side of the cru site. It was fermented in stainless steel and then transferred directly to large oak barrels for ageing. Barolo Brunate is a powerful and vertical wine, endowed with enormous explosive energy and intensity. It offers engaging and penetrating aromas of cedar wood, red cherry, blood orange, sage flowers and rose. On the palate, its austere personality is evident and any connoisseur will realise that it needs a few more years in the bottle to develop. Dense and multi-layered, with great depth, chewy tannins and lingering red berries, this is already a fantastically complete wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Barolo Brunate 2020 is a dark, beguiling wine. Black cherry, dried herbs, leather, game, liquorice and incense lend it wonderful, sepia-coloured nuances. The brooding and closed 2020 clearly needs time. It's a super-classic Brunate that's hard to read at first, but the weight, substance and power are clearly there. Dense, fleshy and dark, it shows an intensity reminiscent of Serralunga." Vinous

"Equal parts fruity and balsamic, this red reveals cherry, cranberry and rose hip notes alongside eucalyptus, juniper and cedar flavors. Taut and well-marked by a line of dusty tannins gracing the finish." Wine Spectator

"The Vietti 2020 Barolo Brunate has a dark and spicy side that is reflected in the fruit. Dark cherry and blackcurrant combine with ferruginous earth, grilled rosemary, aniseed and a hint of fresh mint. Brunate tends to be rather austere and firm in its flavours, and this vintage shows these qualities well. The character of the site comes through clearly. The wine has a precise, edgy personality and the fruit is compact. Only 4,988 bottles were produced." Wine Advocate

"This Barolo from the renowned Brunate vineyard captivates with its youthful energy and presents a lively bouquet of tart sour cherries, unripe raspberries and a tantalising blend of medicinal herbs. The palate reveals a classic structure, framed by firm, fine-grained tannins that support the delicate red fruit flavours, a subtle earthiness and a hint of dried rose petals. With its sophisticated elegance, this Barolo is ready to develop even more complexity with time." Wine Enthusiast

"Harmonious and seductive with endless flavours in good depth. Strawberries, crushed raspberries, fresh lavender, tile, minerals and mild spices. Medium to full-bodied with chalky, powerful tannins. Bright and exciting in the centre, with an extensive development of sour cherries, minerals, white pepper and grapefruit. The long finish is concentrated, precise and taut." James Suckling

Sandro Chia's vineyards have now reached their full potential and the Riserva from the top 2016 vintage is the crowning glory. This year, the winery's consistently clear style and the cool vineyard sites have found a truly perfect unity, which you have to search long and hard to find, even in Montalcino. The richness and generosity of the bouquet is impressive: delicious layers of dark berries, spices, dried herbs and dark chocolate combine to create an intense composition that is rounded off on the palate. Slender and fine on the palate, yet with a subtle opulence that reveals new depths with every sip. The expression and length emphasise the qualities of this truly super Brunello, which completely captivated us. If you have time, wait for the further revelations that bottle ageing will undoubtedly bring! SUPERIORE.DE

"Beguiling raspberry and violet-pepper nose; the attack is juicy, the tannins are tightly woven and well integrated like the acidity, lots of character, suppleness and length in the final, the wood skilfully integrated." Vinum

"Medium-dense, bright ruby colour with a fine garnet sheen. Complex and open nose with notes of dried tomatoes, pickled cherries and light tobacco. Polished on the palate, as if from a single mould from start to finish, lots of finely woven tannins, coated in sweet enamel, with subtle earthy notes on the final." Falstaff

"This red wine is juicy and bursting with vibrant cherry, strawberry, floral and mineral aromas and flavours. It is firm and lean, with excellent intensity and a long, savoury aftertaste. It is harmonious enough to enjoy now, but should reach its peak in three to five years." Wine Spectator

"Castello Romitorio harvests in two stages. The first is an early selection of the smallest, loosest grapes from the oldest vineyards and is filled into a single tank. In years when the estate's Brunello can stand on its own, it is bottled separately as a Riserva. The 2016, the tenth since 1987, is wonderfully earthy in its overture of clay, mineral rock and iron. It develops into an autumnal smokiness and then lands on balsamic herbs and crunchy red forest berries. The youthful vigour and verve do not conceal its inherent finesse. The crisp acidity and dramatic tannins that hurt the mouth will accompany this wine for a long time to come." Decanter

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva does a marvellous job of creating a lasting sense of harmony that reflects the best characteristics of this classic vintage. Part of that playlist is power, and indeed this wine registers 15% alcohol, which is high, but the freshness of these vineyard sites and the wine's acidity do a good job of tempering that power. The fruit is polished and refined in this Riserva, and there is a nice blend of primary and even some distant tertiary character to form a bouquet that is pure but also complex." Wine Advocate

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva soars with elegance and richness as sweet lavender and violets give way to a more savoury display of black cherries, Tuscan dust and cedar chest with a hint of cool mint. The palate is awash with sweet red fruits and spice, silky yet with a delicacy that you wouldn't expect in the Riserva category, but which is very welcome. Underneath, there is a core of power and density just waiting to unfold. On the final, the minerality comes to the fore, mingling with a fine layer of tannins and a hint of spicy citrus fruit. This harmonious Brunello will have a very long life. The Riserva is a selection of two Brunello barrels, a tonneau and a large barrel, from the Romitorio cellar. Simply stunning." Vinous

"A Riserva of great flavour impact, without compromise, from the north-western part of the appellation. Great concentration on the nose, blackcurrant, notes of laurel and rhubarb. The mouthfeel has salty tannins, but also an excellent density, with a return to fruitiness and undergrowth." Luca Gardini