wine classics

Just 3,000 bottles of the exceptional 2016 vintage were released. The grapes for this exceptional Chianti Classico come from vines that grow in the south-west at an altitude of between 350 and 480 metres above sea level. The soil here is characterised by galestro and limestone. Rich, deep dark ruby colour with a velvety sheen. Multi-layered, concentrated aromas of plum, black cherry, spices and menthol. Complex on the palate with a multi-faceted flavour profile that only opens up gradually and only reveals its full spectrum to the patient. A paragon wine of great depth, class and irresistibility. SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep, impenetrable ruby red colour. Brooding, deep and concentrated with hints of oak and dark malt bread. Tightly knit, tangy red and dark fruits with fine, long and persistent tannins. Finely balanced. Transparent and elegant on the finish. Full-blooded." Jancis Robinson

"An intense, vibrant red, with traces of vanilla and toasted, resinous oak surrounding aromas and flavours of black cherries, blackberries, violets and minerals. Balanced, with a resonant finish. Still youthful, with refined, mouth-flattering tannins, this wine still has a long way to go." Wine Spectator

"Intriguing blueberry-chocolate nose, also nuances of black pepper; balanced on the palate with a beautiful polish, the acidity and the tightly woven tannins accurately integrated, combines finesse and great length. Great." Vinum

"Intense and multi-faceted aroma, red raspberry, nutmeg, a hint of wild rosemary and garrigue. The drinkability is juicy, with a return of blackberry and notes of Mediterranean vegetation." Luca Gardini

"This is a beautiful wine that is only produced in the best vintages. The Isole e Olena 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione is made from 90% Sangiovese, supplemented by tiny proportions of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Merlot. The wine is hugely bright and vibrant in this classic vintage with lingering fruit and cherry that remains intact and fresh even when tasted now, five years after harvest. Hints of leather, tar and potting soil gently fill out the back end. This wine promises long and healthy ageing in the future." Wine Advocate

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2016 is breathtaking. This is hardly a surprise, as Paolo De Marchi is known for making compelling Gran Seleziones in his own unique style. The 2016 is a brilliant, concentrated wine, bursting with energy from start to finish. It is the rare wine that develops superbly in the glass and opens up with time. The blend consists of 90% Sangiovese and a few drops of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Syrah." Vinous

Extremely focussed Barolo in a class of its own. Precisely defined fruit notes of wild berries, blackcurrant, rosehip and crushed slate. Firm on the palate with a very well-defined core, softly enveloped and cushioned by a very relaxed texture. Its elegance and extreme length, together with its well-balanced power, put it on a par with the Brunate from the same house. SUPERIORE.DE

"Wow. Superb pure fruit aromas of strawberry, fresh orange, raspberry, plum and flowers such as lavender. Full-bodied with chewy and focused tannins that are poised and pure. Like the skin of the grape. This is so primary and beautiful. The transparency is breathtaking. Best Fossati. Drink after 2030 and beyond." James Suckling

Luce Brunello is dark and impenetrable, as always in its more international style. On the palate, it delivers ripe and round fruit flavours of blackberries and plums with plenty of opulence, power and breed. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich and full-bodied, this juicy red shows aromas of cherry, blackcurrant and Mediterranean scrub, with hints of graphite, underpinned by muscular tannins that come through on the finish. Very balanced overall." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is generous and open in personality. It shows sweet cherries, dried raspberries, spices and fragrant roses." Wine Advocate

"Sparkling, rich ruby with a fine garnet shimmer. Quite restrained on the nose, then opens up with notes of rose petals and tea, rich spicy components in the background. Firm and grippy on the palate, shows plenty of grippy tannin, substantial and structured, but still needs longer ageing." Falstaff

"A finely structured and concentrated Brunello with a complex palette of cherries, blackberries, dried roses, bark, liquorice and a hint of praline. Also iodine and oyster shells. Medium to full body with firm, very fine tannins. Nice texture and balance. Remains fresh and fine until the end. To be tasted from 2025." James Suckling

Le Rocche is a selection from the highest parcels of Falletto in Serralunga, which explains its great finesse. The nose of raspberries and redcurrants shows great purity of fruit, balance and elegance. The palate is equally elegant, with a slender attack, polished tannins and a silky, intense texture. The tannins are grippy but not aggressive, and there are none of the rough edges often found in Serralunga. Balanced and very long, a classic Bruno Giacosa. SUPERIORE.DE

"Fascinating depth and complexity with sublime terroir notes, fine tobacco, undergrowth, iron and cocoa of the finest provenance. Plus those sublime earthy, truffled notes with that unmistakable iodine touch that always harbours something mysterious. A noble and calming effect. Extremely deep in the mouth, subtle and multi-layered, very long and glides over the tongue like a well-trained ballerina with great finesse and silky texture. Completely absorbs you. A madness." Weinwisser

"This round, rich red wine shows aromas and flavours of cherry, raspberry, iron, earth and undergrowth. It has a firm structure with strong but well-integrated tannins that give it support and the ability to age. Overall, this wine is balanced and long, with a lingering aftertaste of fruit, minerals and spicy notes." Wine Spectator

"The Barolo Falletto Vigna Le Rocche 2019 with white label is a generous and expansive wine that appeals to the palate from all sides. It offers lingering sensations of sweet fruit with a good amount of intensity and muscularity pushing from behind. This forward drive is fuelled by dark fruits, rusty earth, damp clay and blood orange. It shows elegance, substance and finely tuned tones with considerable tension and firmness. This is another bottle that should rest in the back of your cellar." Wine Advocate

"Beautiful aromas of roses that fill the glass, along with ripe strawberries, raspberries and wild berries. Very structured and right with finely tuned tannins that are taut, supple and racy. A wine for the cellar. Try it after 2028." James Suckling

Barolo La Serra emerges from the glass with a playful bouquet of dark red fruits, tar, smoke, liquorice, spices and new leather. The high-pitched notes of rose petals, which are typical of this vineyard near La Morra, are complemented by fine strawberry and raspberry notes and, in this wonderfully elegant and subtle overall package, result in an attractive, extremely elegant Barolo that is hard to beat in terms of finesse, purity and length. SUPERIORE.DE

"The bouquet is spicy with aromas of forest fruits, leather and dried roses; balanced and full of potential on the palate, the finely chiselled tannins and acidity in balance, the multi-faceted finish on notes of ripe fruit, spices and leather." Vinum

"Very pure and focussed Barolo with strawberries and cherries with some cranberries on the nose. Medium to full body, with layers of very fine tannins that fill the mouth. Wonderful intensity and concentration. Lots of flavour and beauty. Lots of fruit on the finish. Great potential. Try after 2030." James Suckling

Barolo Brunate is a breathtaking expression of great complexity and finesse. The wine has a lively garnet red colour with a balanced and intense bouquet: sage, mint, undergrowth, tar, tobacco and liquorice nuances give Brunate a striking aromatic complexity. At the heart of the bouquet, as well as on the palate, there is plenty of dark fruit, including blackcurrants and plums. Gains breadth with time in the glass and the already fine tannins will certainly become even smoother with further ageing in the bottle. A Barolo with real presence and stature and for us the most accessible Barolo in Voerzio's exceptional collection! SUPERIORE.DE

"Multi-faceted bouquet with aromas of stone fruit, flowers and subtle tobacco nuances; on the palate, the tannins are fine-grained and perfectly integrated, developing into a long, complex final. Also outstanding in this vintage." Vinum

"A solid Barolo with firm yet velvety tannins and plenty of strawberry, orange peel and floral character. Cranberry. Medium to full body. Juicy tannins and a flavourful finish. Firm on the finish. Very juicy, with beautiful, clear fruit and solid tannins. Better after 2029 and beyond." James Suckling

Undisputedly the most powerful and robust Barolo in Roberto Voerzio's top range is the Rocche dell'Annunziata from one of the best vineyards in La Morra. For us, it is a benchmark in determination and forward momentum. Wonderfully harmonised fruit and spice components, a great wealth of impressions and precisely drawn beauty characterise this exceptional Barolo. Intensely fragrant nose of plums, preserved cherries and lots of raspberries, rounded off with cedar, spices and tobacco. Its depth, complexity and determination never rest; even 24 hours after opening the bottle, the connoisseur is still surprised by fine notes of mint and balsam and this incredibly expressive and charming wine shows no signs of ageing. SUPERIORE.DE

"Aromas of sliced strawberries and stone with some spice. Roses. Perfumed. Lemon peel. Medium body with firm and polished tannins that give a creamy texture and a long and flavorful finish. Juicy at the end. Needs time to soften. Better after 2026." James Suckling

Barolo Cerequio unfolds its cornucopia of cherries, ripe red berries, violets, leather and tar only after many minutes in the glass. Firm and powerful on the palate - shows an impressive and firm structure, yet the wine remains delicate, mineral and full of finesse throughout. It is perhaps the most balanced of Roberto Voerzio's top wines, and even if it appears quite accessible at a young age, it will only reveal its true potential and class in many years. SUPERIORE.DE

"A flagship of the renowned MGA Cerequio: Extremely seductive, finely chiselled nose of forest fruits, pomegranate, flowers and spices; sleek texture, the tannins tightly woven, the acidity invigorating, combines noble character and fruit to the final." Vinum

"Like a bouquet of flowers with orange peel, candied cranberries and blood oranges. Mineral. Full-bodied with chewy and mineral tannins with dried citrus fruits. Even more racy tannins at the end. Juicy and savoury finish. Needs time to mature and soften. Drinkable after 2029." James Suckling

Giulia Negri would certainly not have the nickname "Barolo Girl" if this wine did not exist. The grapes for this archetype of a modern-traditional (sic!) Barolo come from the top vineyards of Brunate and Serradenari, the latter of which lies at an altitude of up to 520 metres and the soils are clayey-sandy. The grapes are fermented spontaneously and then matured in large oak barrels. Barriques? Not a chance.

Deep, light ruby red colour. Rose petals, nutty notes and small red berries on the nose. The fine fragrance continues on the palate: even though it does not deny its origin or the grape variety, it has an almost unique elegance and freshness that makes it recognisable as a lively and complete top wine even at a young age. Further years of ageing are certainly not a mistake, as you can impressively feel how the increasing complexity with age joins the finesse and elegance that is already unmistakable today. A bottle for now and the rest not too far away in the cellar! SUPERIORE.DE

"This wine is deeply rooted in terroir, exuding a tapestry of forest floor, tar, earthy clay, and an range of medicinal herbs. Crushed cherries and raspberries move between the more savory note gently lifting the wine. Structured with vibrant acidity that lifts the tart red fruit flavors across the palate as fresh herbs and pine needle accents add to the complex nature of this wine." Wine Enthusiast

The spectacular "Vendemmia d'Artista" artists' edition has been running since 2006. Every year, renowned artists are invited to design a small series of individual and large bottles of the world-famous Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore and create an artistic world around this fine wine. It is not a matter of course that we are once again able to offer you some examples of the rare 16th edition of the Ornellaia Vendemmia d'Artista 2021 in the 0.75-litre bottle this year. As usual, this special edition is rare and sought-after, as there is only one bottle of this limited collector's item in each 6-bottle wooden crate.

This year's edition bears the name "La Generosità - Generosity". This is the name Ornellaia has given to the 2021 vintage. The artist Marinella Senatore has imaginatively interpreted this character trait and transformed the pride and dedication of the people who vinify this top wine into impressive art. She says: "I have studied Ornellaia long and hard. Here, the elements of nature such as the sea, wind and stars combine with the energy of the people who work here, and completely new connections are created."

From these observations, she created unique collages that adorn 100 double magnum bottles, among other things. The artist interprets the theme of generosity in the form of artistic representations of the hands of those men and women who passionately pursue their vocation day after day. The symbolism of dance as a further element symbolises a lively community and the strong cohesion of the team.

Once again this year, a large part of the impressive special edition will be auctioned off at Sotheby's to find its way into the hands of lucky collectors. The proceeds will go to the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation to support the innovative "Mind's Eye" programme. And for a very good cause, as the programme offers people with visual impairments the opportunity to discover and experience contemporary art without barriers.

Lamberto Frescobaldi, co-owner of the Ornellaia winery, summarises the intention of the work as follows: "The character of 2021 reflects the generosity of the terroir. But the artist's interpretation reveals another level of meaning: the generosity of the terroir enables an ecosystem of which we are all a part."

Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore 2021 is a wine of extreme precision. It offers well-proportioned power and depth with profound layers of black fruit, coffee and liquorice. It captivates with its lustre and polished texture, which merges into great richness, concentration and structure. The finish is enveloping with sweet dark fruits and dark spices that linger for a long time. Ornellaia 2021 is a wonderful, if not perfect, example of the impressive potential of this great Tuscan vintage! SUPERIORE.DE

"The Ornellaia 2021 is the expression of a typical Bolgheri vintage, in which there was no lack of sunny periods without rainfall, resulting in rich and concentrated, but at the same time very expressive and multi-faceted wines. On the nose, typical scents of Mediterranean scrub, aromatic herbs, cypress berries and the classic flavours of blackcurrant and dark fruit, accompanied on the palate by a dense tannic texture that envelops it with precision and finesse. The final is persistent and vibrant, leaving a feeling of aromatic freshness and elegance." Olga Fusari, Oenologist (bis 2023)

"Almost black in the glass. The 2021 Ornellaia is one of the best I have tasted in recent years. The precisely contoured nose is very elegant with highly ripe, dark red cherry fruit, balsamic top notes, pencil lead and Mediterranean herbal spice. Full-bodied and full of finesse on the palate, the super fine sandy tannins lay wonderfully over the clear fruit, showing terrific balance and structure. Rarely experienced with such finesse." Weinwisser

"Enchanting aromas of blackberries, lilac, liquorice and mint, also subtle notes of blood orange; superb structure with lots of character, but also great light-footedness, the fine-grained tannin and acidity in harmony, long finish." Vinum

"Bright, rich ruby colour with a slight violet hue. Very impressive and accessible nose, showing notes of dark currants, dark cherries and fresh plums, as well as spicy macchia herbs. Lots of fine-meshed tannin on the palate, which gives the wine length and polish, dark berries and tobacco, lingers for a long time." Falstaff

"More intense, nuanced crimson than most others. Rich, hedonistic nose. Full and perfumed with many elements, including some mintiness, making up the whole. Strikingly long and rewarding. Good stuff. Already appealing and with an appetising finish." Jancis Robinson

"The Ornellaia 2021 Bolgheri Superiore Ornellaia offers an extra layer of richness, generosity and fullness that makes for a very open and voluptuous Tuscan red wine. You can feel the fruit and the weight of the oak, the extract and the alcohol content of 15 %. All these elements combine to great effect. Black cherries, dark fruits, sweet spices and barbecue smoke emerge from this power. The fruity tannins are young, and this edition of Ornellaia proves worthy of drinking in the medium or long term, especially as it mellows with bottle age." Wine Advocate

"Despite the warm growing season, Ornellaia 2021 feels less dense and muscular than previous vintages. It offers pretty floral and wild herb scents alongside ripe red and black fruit flavours. It's intense, fresh and vertical in character, with fine, ripe, round tannins that seem to be a hallmark of the vintage - it's a beautiful, airy iteration of the Bolgheri benchmark that's already drinking well." Decanter

"An intense red, characterised by lively acidity and framed by dense, ripe tannins that bring out its aromas and flavours of blackcurrants, blackberries, violets and toasted oak. Iron and wild herb accents emerge on the finish. Although expressive at this stage, this youthful version will benefit from time in the bottle." Wine Spectator

"Aromas of blackcurrants, iodine, gravel, hints of mint and sage. Blue fruits. Full-bodied with chewy tannins that open up with air. It is racy and very long. Very tannic and energetic with power and focus. Muscular and very taut. This is the best Ornellaia for the cellar in years." James Suckling

"The Ornellaia 2021 captures all the magic of this sensational vintage on the Tuscan coast. The 2021 is rich, lush and expansive, with tremendous polish, it is pure class. Dark fruits, mocha, espresso, liquorice, plum and dried herbs abound. The tannins are present but also beautifully integrated, as is the French oak. The blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc and 7% Petit Verdot is very well done." Vinous

At the very top of the Serradenari parcel, the fruit grows for an exceptional Barolo, with which the young winemaker Giulia Negri has truly created a monument to herself. Marassio clearly benefits from the cool climate of Piedmont's high altitudes and will therefore hardly change its character even if the climate continues to change.

Rose petals, fresh cherry mousse and fine spicy notes on the nose. Lively yet precise on the palate, with an aristocratic coolness in which cherries, spices and forest floor are concealed with great restraint and only hesitantly reveal their complexity. The tannins are still demanding and gripping when young, but you can already sense the finesse and elegance that this great wine will confidently display in the glass as it matures, without ever becoming loud. SUPERIORE.DE

"An intense wine with aromas of peach peel, blood oranges, graphite, violets and cinnamon. The palate is soft and velvety with a medium to full body, fruit concentration and a chewy finish due to the tension of acidity and tannins. Slightly toasty finish. Graceful Barolo not without the structure for aging." James Suckling

"This wine elegantly marries the warmth of cedar and sandalwood aromas with an array of drying red fruits sprinkled with rose. Sturdy on the palate with vibrant acidity enhancing the perception of the high-toned, tart red fruits that yield to more savory and earthy elements on the elegant finish." Wine Enthusiast

As a result of extensive soil research, Francesco Ricasoli was able to identify three micro-vineyards, which will be vinified separately from the 2015 vintage onwards. The range of Chianti Classico Gran Selezione now includes, in addition to the famous Castello di Brolio, three cru sites (Colledilà, Roncicone and Ceniprimo), all of which are 100% planted with Sangiovese. They differ in structure and taste in close correspondence with their terroir and impressively demonstrate the complexity of the Chanti Classico region.

CeniPrimo is a single-varietal Sangiovese from soils shaped by a former river course. It is a 6.4 hectare site planted in 1998 with southwest exposure. This site is in a valley on the Arbia River, and the soils are very complex at this point with alluvium and clay that is low in organic matter and lower in limestone. From our tasting, it seems to be the most nuanced and diverse of the three single vineyard Gran Selezione.

Intense, fresh and bright bouquet of violets and wild spicy notes. In the drink, an elegant acidity and fine mineral slate traces. Cherry, blackberry, plum, white pepper and a little rosemary lead the perfectly structured drop into a never-ending and multi-layered finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"A complex, concentrated red wine with seductive aromas of cherries, blackcurrants, violets, minerals and spices. Dry and powerful, with a firm, mineral finish. It shows good balance and a long-lasting aftertaste, combining the fruity, mineral and spicy elements." Wine Spectator

"Straightforward fruit and floral aromas, then subtle spice too; the tannins powdery, well underpinned by the acidity, the finish on notes of sun-ripened berries. Pleases with its verve." Vinum

"The CeniPrimo, the lowest of Ricasoli's three crus, comes from a site 300 metres above sea level in the Arbia Valley on river soils. As a result, it is darker and earthier compared to the other two crus, grippier and also with an amazing acidity. There is a hint of creaminess in the background, with notes of earth, pepper and wood. It's very tasty and vertical, with balsamic freshness and beautiful purity, but definitely needs more time to show its best side." Decanter

"The Barone Ricasoli 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Brolio CeniPrimo opens with a medium-dark, saturated appearance and a slightly more concentrated feel, with aromas of cherry liqueur, blackberries, spices and sweet earth. Thanks to the lower-lying vineyards and silty riverbed soils, this wine is a little fruitier and richer in texture. However, this wine also offers a touch of lively freshness on the finish, and that makes a big difference in a warm vintage like this. It remains very balanced throughout." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of firm-to-the-bite cherries with citrus peel. Flowers, like red roses, also come through clearly. Medium to full body, with open-grained tannins that cling like cashmere. Powerful, fresh and lively. Give this wine three to five years to develop." James Suckling

Roberto Voerzio is a master of his trade. The crowning glory, however, is his Riserva Case Nere, aged for 10 years in large oak barrels, which he brings to the market just at the beginning of a long (incipient) phase of drinking maturity. Dried autumn leaves, macerated cherries, tobacco, spices and liquorice lend this exceptional Barolo an impressive complexity and deep nuances that only gradually unfold in the glass. Sweet, silky and polished on the palate, already full of balance and harmony. There is something mysterious about this Riserva that is bound to captivate any connoisseur. After some time, the tannins emerge and the wine takes on a much more virile personality and you realise that it will take many more years for this wine to reveal all its secrets ... SUPERIORE.DE

As a result of extensive soil research, Francesco Ricasoli was able to identify three microlocations, which will be vinified separately from the 2015 vintage onwards. The range of Chianti Classico Gran Selezione now includes, in addition to the famous Castello di Brolio, three cru sites (Colledilà, Roncicone and Ceniprimo), all of which are 100% planted with Sangiovese. They differ in structure and taste in close correspondence with their terroir and impressively demonstrate the complexity of the Chanti Classico region.

Cru Roncicone comes from soils with maritime deposits. It is a 10.1 hectare plot planted between 1998 and 2000 at a density of 6,000 plants per hectare. The soils are rich in marine fossils with sand at the top and thicker clay under the topsoil. Our impression of this wine is that it is the most immediately and softly structured.

Deep dark, fruity-smoky bouquet. On the palate then dark, violet fruits, paired with notes of forest floor, tobacco and a nice spiciness. The volume is full and deep, the tannins very accessible even at a young age and the finish is flanked by a well-structured acidity framework, which will also ensure a very good ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Roncicone, first released in the 2015 vintage, comes from a vineyard with richer soils with marine sediments and large pebbles. It is the most floral and fragrant of Ricasoli's three crus, intense and fleshy, with good spice of black and red cherries, spices and balsamic, finishing with sweet, floral red fruits - a very nice style." Decanter

"The spicy nose is reminiscent of a soothing café, with notes of balsamic vinegar and herbs, and a gentle fruitiness that lingers over the smell of the beans. The velvety texture on the palate is balanced by a sharp acidity and a peppery kick on the finish." Wine Enthusiast

"Offers aromas and flavours of cherry, blackcurrant and plum, underlined by iron and mineral notes. Accents of tobacco and wild herbs emerge on the long, delicious finish. Excellent balance." Wine Spectator

"Ripe and rich Roncicone with plums, currants and jam accompanied by fresh flowers and walnut undertones. Full-bodied, a little chewy and structured, but crisp with fine tannins. Long lasting finish. Needs at least two or three years to develop." James Suckling

"Exquisite bouquet of stone fruit and sandalwood, spiced up by fine spice; harmonious tannin-acid framework, pressure on the finish and yet full of elegance." Vinum

"This is the wine that blew me away last year (when I tasted the excellent 2019 vintage) and convinced me of the innovative work Barone Ricasoli is currently doing. Today, tasting the 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Brolio Roncicone, I am reminded of the quality fruit that comes from this particular 10-acre site with marine fossils in the sandy topsoil. Carefully aged in oak, this Sangiovese shows brilliant clarity and focus, with aromas of roses, dried cherries, campfire ash and delicate mineral notes. This wine paints a beautiful portrait of this grape variety." Wine Advocate

With this single-vineyard Sangiovese, the Mazzei family pursues no less a goal than to make the best wine in the Chianti Classico appellation. Seven different Sangiovese clones, four of them from their own 50 years of research, form the basis for a Gran Selezione that is produced at an altitude of up to 350 m in the single vineyard Il Caggio not far from Castellina (and only in the best vintages).

Just 3,000 bottles point the way to the Sangiovese Olympus: Sparkling ruby red, opulent bouquet of cherry, dried fruit, herbs and violets. On the palate again small red berries, flanked by a present but very elegant tannin, precise and straightforward. The final is polished and very long, perfectly proportioned and harmonious. Leaves a beautiful and unique impression, it expands the standard of what one could expect from a Gran Selezione until today. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with delicately lightening rim. Fragrant nose of cedar wood, cherries, fine marzipan, a hint of dried rose petal. Opens polished and clear on the palate, in addition exciting, salty tones, compact acidity with delicately perceptible wood use decorate the bouquet, appears very energetic and radiant, will age well." Falstaff

"The Caggio 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Ipsus, out now, unfolds slowly in the glass to reveal dark fruits, cassis, spices, cured leather and pressed blue flowers. A hint of something exotic like bay leaf or a touch of roasted cumin. The finish is silky and very smooth, and this wine is longer in the mouth and more finely crafted compared to the 2016 vintage I tasted at the same time." Wine Advocate

"Very perfumed with roses and other flowers. Also Spanish cedar. Medium body with creamy and fine but round tannins that continue for minutes. Super fine texture. Juicy fruit. Juicy and so beautiful. Hard not to drink it now. In fact, do. But it will also age beautifully. Vineyards of 30 years or more." James Suckling

"This 2018 brilliantly combines the darker fruit of 2016 with the mega-freshness of 2015, finishing it off with super-fine tannins. Creamy, earthy and chocolatey notes are lifted by a balsamic waft, overlaid with ripe, sapid red and black cherries, a touch of black tea and a long, sweet, pure cherry and wild strawberry finish. Superb." Decanter

With this single-vineyard Sangiovese, the Mazzei family is pursuing no less a goal than making the best wine in the Chianti Classico appellation. Seven different Sangiovese clones, four of them from the family's own 50-year research, form the basis for a Gran Selezione, which is produced at an altitude of up to 350 metres in the single vineyard Il Caggio not far from Castellina (and only in the best vintages).

Just 3,000 bottles of the top Tuscan vintage 2016 point the way to the Sangiovese Olympus: sparkling ruby red, opulent bouquet of cherry, dried fruit, herbs and violets. Small red berries again on the palate, flanked by a present but very elegant tannin, precise and straightforward. The final is polished and very long, perfectly proportioned and harmonious. Leaves a wonderful and unique impression, it extends the benchmark for what one could expect from a Gran Selezione to date. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, sparkling ruby red colour. Expressive and inviting on the nose, fresh wild strawberries, blood oranges, with fine floral notes and a finish of ripe red peach, elegant, barely perceptible use of wood. Extremely polished and elegant on the palate, spans a wide, juicy arc, many layers, gentle, persistent pressure, fine saltiness on the finish with a long finish." Falstaff

"The Caggio 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Ipsus is a beautiful expression of Sangiovese. The wine captures the slightly wild and untamed side of the grape that is so compelling, but it also focuses on elegance and nuance. At first glance, the bouquet reveals an abundance of wild berries and wild cherries, but taste the glass a second and third time and you may pick up more decisive notes of crushed stone and granite. The wine is lean and streamlined, with pretty floral flourishes and a long, silky finish. More than anything, the Ipsus captures the purity and honesty of Sangiovese with a finely polished and lean mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Ipsus 2016 is the second vintage from the Caggio estate of the Mazzei family in Castellina. The soaring aromas immediately herald a Sangiovese of true distinction and class. There is something wild and seductive about Ipsus that is difficult to describe. It is at once incredibly polished and yet also very assertive. Crushed flowers, cherry, pomegranate, blood orange, star anise and cinnamon add layers of exoticism as the 2016 opens in the glass. The 2016 is deep, full of character and incredibly long-lasting. This ambitious new wine from Mazzei will certainly be fascinating to follow." Vinous

"The fruit element is pure and reminiscent of blackcurrants and black cherries, paired with a spicy side that features notes of wild rosemary, iron, tobacco and eucalyptus. All of this is held together by a lively acidity and refined tannins. A convincing combination of power and finesse." Wine Spectator

"Super perfumed, wonderful aromas of blackberries, mushrooms and bark with dried flowers and crushed stones. Also pine needles and flowers. Full-bodied and linear, very dense and long. Very polished and intense. Great length. Outstanding. From the heart of Castellina in Chianti. Try it after 2025, but it already shows incredible clarity and concentration." James Suckling

"Lots of red cherry is accompanied by a whiff of wood smoke and dried green tea, followed by similar flavours on the palate. The acidity is vibrant and crunchy, the fine-grained tannins still firm. A pure expression of Sangiovese; an elegant wine." Decanter

As a result of extensive soil research, Francesco Ricasoli was able to identify three microlocations, which will be vinified separately from the 2015 vintage onwards. The range of Chianti Classico Gran Selezione now includes, in addition to the famous Castello di Brolio, three cru sites (Colledilà, Roncicone and Ceniprimo), all of which are 100% planted with Sangiovese. They differ in structure and taste in close correspondence with their terroir and impressively demonstrate the complexity of the Chanti Classico region.

The grapes of Colledilà come from the soils of Monte Morello. The 7.6 hectare single-vineyard plot was planted in 2002 on very rocky soils rich in calcium, clay and organic matter. These characteristics give this wine its sharpness and concentration, promising long ageing in the cellar.

Ripe, dark cherry fruit and blackberry aromas, followed by tar, liquorice and potting soil. On the palate, a fine earthiness, cherry and plum, plus finely knit and slightly sweet tannins. The dense fruit and pleasant acid wire the Sangiovese provide the necessary freshness. Masterfully composed! SUPERIORE.DE

"Like a laser beam in profile, this red wine evokes aromas and flavours of cherries, currants, minerals, wild herbs and sweet spices. The lingering, incisive finish leaves a hint of fine tannins. Needs time." Wine Spectator

"Juicy, ripe and bright, it shows a delicious freshness of blackcurrant fruit with classic chalky verticality and length, but it needs more time to reveal all its complexity." Decanter

"Of these 2020 releases, I think the Barone Ricasoli 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colledilà is the most sensitive to the warm growing season. You sense more fruit ripeness in this wine with savoury spices, leather and roasted espresso beans. There is plenty of plum and purple fruit framed by gravel and campfire ash. Indeed, this 2020 expression offers a nice, balanced freshness in terms of mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

"Intense perfume of stone fruit, dark chocolate and tobacco; tightly woven, the tannins polished and in perfect unison with the well-integrated acidity, the finish on notes of black cherries, clear and spot-on. Also very successful in this vintage." Vinum

"Very perfumed with aromas of hibiscus flowers, citrus and fresh cherries leading to a medium body with layers of fruit and very fine tannins that go on and on. Fully integrated. A joy to taste and drink, but it will develop beautifully in bottle. Pure harmony." James Suckling

"Elegantly bright ruby red with a delicate garnet rim. Expressive nose, of rose hips, blood oranges, fresh cherries, very inviting and fragrant, red peach, with delicate floral components. Very juicy entry on the palate, polished and clear, with great brought out red fruit, plus bright spice, long and very elegant." Falstaff

50 & 50 - Tuscan cult wine made from 50 per cent Merlot from Avignonesi and 50 per cent Sangiovese from Capannelle. Bright ruby colour with a fine garnet rim. Elegant, very elegant nose with clear notes of ripe cherries, some blackberry, wonderfully balanced. Full-bodied on the palate, shows plenty of fruit, then develops a densely structured tannin, long final with subtle tobacco and pomegranate notes. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2019 50 & 50, an equal-part blend of Merlot and Sangiovese, is darkly alluring with dusty rose, crushed black cherries, lavender and crushed stone. It's silky-smooth with a mineral tinge up front that gives way to masses of tart wild berry fruits and savory spice. This finishes long and saturating, with a coating of grippy tannins and a wild blueberry concentration." Vinous

"The subtle savoriness with some orange zest and baking spices give complexity to the steely, mineral nose. Full-bodied on the palate highlighted by its immaculate texture with firm, fine-grained tannins. Long, nicely savory and mineral finish to close." James Suckling

"The Avignonesi & Capannelle 2019 50 & 50 is a celebrated blend of equal parts Merlot and Sangiovese. The Merlot comes from the Avignonesi estate and Capannelle produces the Sangiovese in this all-Tuscan partnership that was kicked off in 1988. In fact, they claim to be one of the oldest joint ventures of this kind anywhere in the world of wine. This shows dark fruit concentration, blackberry preserves, spice and sweet tobacco. It is texturally rich thanks to its abundant fruit weight and softness." Wine Advocate

The top wine from the winery of the same name presents itself in an exemplary manner and as a kind of reference for many other so-called Super Tuscans in the region. Deep ruby red in colour with light red reflections. Dark fruit, spices, herbs, some leather and a fine tarry note on the nose. The flavours then unfold powerfully and concentrated on the palate, yet it glides velvety with a wonderfully balanced acid-tannin ratio into a rich, well-proportioned and long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful attack with notes of forest fruits and spices; combines character with elegance, the tannins are fine-grained and interact with the acidity, with a polished final and length." Vinum

"On the nose, sour cherries and blackberries roll around in earth and wild herbs, then spread out on the palate over flavours of vanilla, dark chocolate and espresso. Lively acidity and penetrating spiciness emphasise the earthy saltiness that Il Borro expresses in a unique way. Lush but refined." Wine Enthusiast

"The Il Borro 2019 Il Borro shows very good definition of each of its components. The Syrah brings freshness and lift to the bouquet. The Merlot is aged in botte grande to bring out an authentic taste of the variety with earth and soil. The Cabernet Sauvignon gives firmness and structure. Bigger oak casks are used to help mitigate the alcohol content that, in the case of this wine, comes in at 15%." Wine Advocate

"Fresh and floral with aromas of black cherry and lavender, leading to a medium body with well-integrated tannins that spread nicely across the palate. It becomes silky and beautiful. A hint of smoke and spice at the end. Crisp on the finish." James Suckling

The Barolo Falletto from the vineyard of the same name in Serralunga, where the winery is located, has a wonderfully complex and racy personality. It impresses with the depth and intensity of its dark fruit and the outstanding overall balance that can only be found in this coveted vineyard. Its spectrum ranges from small dark berries to menthol, flowers and liquorice through to a present yet consistently elegant tannin. It is a particularly precise and direct Barolo without being loud. However, its full character, variety of flavours and finesse will only really come to the fore with further bottle ageing. SUPERIORE.DE

"Smoky cherry and wild berry fruit, nutmeg, Amarena cherry. Melting and powerful in the mouth, also grippy with a flattering sweetness and texture, will only develop its full potential in 5-8 years." Weinwisser

"Transparent carmine red. Again slightly spicy and slightly floral. Sweet and rich and very flattering. Long and by no means simple. More fruit than tannin at this early stage." Jancis Robinson

"Strawberry, cherry, rose, eucalyptus and stony mineral flavors are framed by dense, fine-grained tannins in this graceful, firmly structured red. Elegant and very Burgundy in profile, with a vibrant character and excellent length." Wine Spectator

"The depth and beauty of this wine are so tantalising and attractive that you want to drink the whole bottle. It is medium to full-bodied with cherry, strawberry and white truffle flavours. Juicy and precise, with a real presence and complexity when it opens up. Best after 2027, but already beautiful now." James Suckling