Wine Spectator

Ornus dell'Ornellaia, the sweet, golden-coloured late harvest from Petit Manseng, has an extraordinarily complex bouquet with clear notes of ripe tropical fruit, dried apricots and blossom honey. The palate is multi-layered and intense with an impressive balance between suppleness, self-confident fruit and precise, lively acidity. In the endless finish, subtle notes of toasted oak and crème brûlée. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Ornellaia 2021 Ornus dell'Ornellaia is all Petit Manseng. This is an unexpected dessert wine with a note of mossy peat, forest floor or button mushroom that adds an extra layer to the bouquet. Otherwise, you get plenty of dried fruit, honey and candied fruit over a medium-weight finish. The acidity and the residual sugar of the wine are well balanced." Wine Advocate

"An elegant white dessert wine that exudes aromas of apricot, orange blossom, honey and caramel. The core flavours are rather grapey, with accents of honey and spices. The lively acidity keeps it fresh and long on the finish, where a hint of orange peel shines through." Wine Spectator

"Dried peach and apricot. A hint of caramel. Lemon peel and orange peel. Medium to full body, very sweet but so energetic with very low pH and lively acidity. Some phenolic flavour. Tension and excitement." James Suckling

This strictly limited Riserva is only bottled in the best years. The bouquet is perfect and profound with aromas of dried fruit, blackberries, white smoke and crushed rock. Wonderfully structured on the palate with exact proportions and an almost weightless elegance that makes it one of the best red wines in southern Italy. Still youthfully intense, it still has plenty of time ahead of it. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant medium ruby red colour. Crushed raspberries and sour cherries on the nose with chalky, mineral notes and a hint of cooked rhubarb. Supple raspberry fruit with finely honed, long tannins still making their mark and interspersed with oak. Elegant weight on the palate. Very long with a long oak note. Modern approach." Jancis Robinson

"A rich, focused red with a spicy, sanguine edge to the fruit flavours of crushed cherries, black plums and raspberries. Offers a lively profile that coats the firm, chewy tannins well, while accents of stone, dried thyme and sage, orange peel and pink peppercorns linger on the finish." Wine Spectator

"On the nose, deep fruit notes of dried figs, plums and mulberries both accentuate and push back on dominant aromas of grilled meat and pepper. The fruit brightens on the palate, but an enduring earthy spiciness maintains depth, while strong yet polished tannins glide into an unexpectedly fresh, saline finish." Wine Enthusiast

"Honestly, it's hard to put this glass down. The Aglianico del Vulture Superiore Riserva Titolo 2018 seduces with a bouquet that brings the taster back down to earth, blending musky tones of animals, incense and grilled herbs with mint and spiced oranges. It coats the palate with a texture of pure silk and seems to float with its medium weight. A saturation of citrusy black fruits slowly builds, accented by inner sage and lavender tones. The 2018 feels nervous on the finish, structured and balanced yet full of tension, like a bomb waiting to explode. Sweet spice and liquorice notes slowly fade away. Elena Fucci has taken the Superiore Riserva Titolo to a whole new level. Forty-eight hours later, it still sings. The 2018 is still a baby in terms of development, but it's almost impossible to resist it now." Vinous

Since its debut in 1988, Il Blu has been the result of constant striving for perfection. With ultra-fine tannins and a smooth and full finish, this full-bodied wine captivates with its complexity and elegance. Il Blu is made from only the best hand-picked and selected grapes from the two vineyards in the Chianti region. Although Sangiovese plays a leading role in the blend, its influence and signature contribute significantly to the overall identity of this special wine.

Rich, unfathomable ruby red. Explosive aromas of black cherries and blackberries on the nose. The texture is wonderfully balanced, on the palate Il Blu presents itself fresh, persistently powerful and with wonderfully articulated tannin. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red with a subtly lightening rim. Spicy, noble nose of ripe sour cherries, blackcurrants and elegant use of wood. Juicy on the palate, with clear, well-developed fruit, with still young tannin, still needs some time, salty and punchy on the final." Falstaff

"This is an organic blend that enjoys near iconic status here in Tuscany. Thanks to its long track record, you can count on this Tuscan blended red to deliver top quality. The Brancaia 2020 Il Blu is a full-bodied red with sweet fruit flavors and a rich, velvety texture." Wine Advocate

"Shows a resinous note from the oak that envelops ripe black cherry, plum, leather, mineral and tobacco flavors. This red just keeps building in intensity and fruit on the palate, ending with a succulent, fruit- and spice-infused aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"The 2020 Il Blu is superb. Dark and mysterious at first, the Blu offers up an exotic mélange of blue fruits, mocha, new leather, licorice and lavender. Bright acids play off some of the more over leanings beautifully. Il Blu has long been one of the most distinctive wines in Chianti Classico. The 2020 is another fine edition of Il Blu." Vinous

"Attractive blueberries, brambles and cherries with spiced orange peel and lilac blossom, as well as some smoky dark spices and cocoa. Full, concentrated and very tense, with tightly packed but very polished and fine tannins. Shows a succulence and vibrancy to the fruit with a mineral, slightly chalky finish." James Suckling

Pacenti's Vecchie Vigne is every year a prime example of the high class of the appellation around the small village of Montalcino. But what can one say about this wine when it is young? It has the potential to be one of the best Brunellos of this outstanding vintage, but it is too early to sum up its true class. Only this much: Pacenti's Vecchie Vigne has everything that reveals the power, size and finesse of this vintage. Aromas of cherry, forest floor, leather, spices, tobacco and plenty of other primary notes of deep black fruit. Explosive, full-bodied and still very closed on the palate, the tannins firm and even stubborn at first - but you can feel the existing depth and balance with every sip, which will make it one of the most convincing and at the same time charming drops of the appellation with further bottle ageing. Impressive, too, is the power and structure that builds up in waves and that it will reveal with each further year of patience and maturity. SUPERIORE.DE

"Siro Pacenti's wines always offer a full concert. This one seems a bit more restrained at first, but opens up clearly with air. Complex aroma with ripe red and blue plums, blueberries, hibiscus, blue-purple flowers (lavender, iris), dark chocolate, behind it many balsamic nuances. Enormously powerful and exciting, very intense and full-bodied with fine-grained tannins and vibrant freshness." Weinwisser

"Giancarlo Pacenti's selection from old vines is also convincing in 2016: multi-layered bouquet of wild berries, black pepper and violets; polished in the mouth, with plenty of richness and crisp acidity, the tannins finely meshed and youthful, ending on notes of red berries, flowers and tobacco. Convincing, but should still mature." Vinum

"Sparkling, dark ruby red. Lots of dark berry fruit, mulberries, fresh dark plums, some cardamom. On the palate a lot of compact, grippy tannin, opens up in many layers, gripping and sturdy, grippy tannin forms the backbone of the wine, then drying wood in the final." Falstaff

"This wine opens to a nicely saturated appearance with dark berry, spice and tobacco. The wine is structured and firm, owning its tannins to both the fruit and the barrique. I do find the tannins to be astringent at this young stage, so I would hold off from opening this release for a long while. Like many of the other producers in Montalcino, Giancarlo Pacenti has captured the linearity and focus of the vintage, but his house style ultimately leaves a bigger mark on the fruit." Wine Advocate

"Broad and dense, this red reveals power behind the plum, cherry, earth, leather and underbrush flavors. Will need time to shed its beefy tannins, but the fruit keeps pace on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"Menthol, new leather, French oak and spiced blueberry aromas come to the forefront. Full bodied and concentrated, the firmly structured palate delivers dried cherry, grilled Porcini, vanilla and licorice set against assertive, close-grained tannins before closing on a coconut note. Give it time to flesh out in the bottle." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Vecchie Vigne from Siro Pacenti is dark and youthfully folded in upon itself. This pulls you closer to the glass, as it slowly reveals a nuanced display of olive-tinged blackberry and plum, with hints of mocha, balsamic spice and tanned leather. It's deeply textural, with velvety waves of ripe black fruits laced with tactile minerals, propelled by vibrant acids which carry its medium-bodied weight with ease. Youthfully dense, poised and geared for the long term, the 2016 Vecchie Vigne will require a good amount of cellaring to show all of its charms. Hints of licorice and violet florals echo throughout the long and structured finale." Vinous

"Such wonderful opulence and beauty. The nose shows dried flowers and minerals with blackberries and black cherries. Purity is the word. Full-bodied with incredible depth and structure and polished, silky tannins that envelop your palate. The length is really impressive." James Suckling

Ugolaia is a 1.7-hectare, south-west-facing plot with a view of the sea, where the temperature fluctuations between day and night are considerable. The estate's oldest vines grow here on red iron soil.

Lively, full red colour. Cool notes of watercress and mint complement fresh red cherries and crunchy chocolate-covered redcurrants. Rich, subtly sweet and very supple on the palate, with a juicy brightness that highlights the excellent cut and clarity of its red fruit and floral flavours. The characterful finish is refreshing with its lingering violet flavour. Very polished and velvety at the same time, a great wine every year. SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful berry nose, spiced up with notes of pepper and leather; the attack is compact, the tannins robust, the acidity noticeable, has fullness, power and juice. The beguiling final completes the perfect impression." Vinum

"Brilliant, deep ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Mineral and brooding on the nose and still quite closed. Lots of soft yet spicy fruit. Still somewhat powerful at the moment, but very promising and with firm but very fine tannins. Long, complex and juicy finish. Stunning, but still far from mature." Jancis Robinson

"Rich ruby colour with a slightly brightening garnet rim. Inviting, rich nose with lots of fleshy fruit, cloves, blackberries and plums. Shows beautifully present fruit on the palate, round and balanced, grippy, dense tannins, lingers for a long time, full-bodied." Falstaff

"The Brunello di Montalcino Ugolaia 2017 comes from a hot and very dry vintage and shows a dark garnet red colour with particular concentration and texture. The bouquet smells of dark fruits, baked plums and roasted spices. The Ugolaia is complex and rich, but despite the intensity of the vintage, the mouthfeel is of medium length and the wine finishes with a bright freshness." Wine Advocate

"The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Ugolaia smells of dried roses and cherries as well as cinnamon and cloves in the glass. It feels almost velvety, with a dense wave of tart wild berries accompanied by a hint of sour citrus and balsamic spice. Nuances of plum and liquorice linger as the 2017 finishes structured, but not austere, with hints of mocha and redcurrant. The Ugolaia is another example of Lisini's success in this difficult vintage. Nevertheless, it will need a few more years to fully develop." Vinous

"Full-bodied with ripe and dried cherries, spiced plums, chocolate and blueberries, supported by polished tannins. Also well-integrated spices and dried flowers. Ripe and expansive, with a soft and supple texture that makes it very approachable and satisfying." James Suckling

"Lisini's single-vineyard selection shows its usual exotic side in 2017. It opens with an intoxicating blend of incense, juniper, pressed lilac and lavender. There's also that polished wood nuance that I associate with the wine's six months of ageing in chestnut barrels. On the palate, it is even denser than the estate's Brunello annata, showing flavours of myrtle and redcurrant underpinned by an appetising salty core. The powerful tannins require another year in the bottle, but are admirably voluptuous. Undoubtedly one of the successes of the vintage." Decanter

"The nose takes you to a forest cabin, full of savory, umami aromas of damp earth, leather and mushrooms, with sharper notes of balsamic and Luxardo cherries coming through. On the palate, the cherry element freshens and brightens, and is lifted by undertones of orange and anise, along with springy tannins and buoyant acid." Wine Enthusiast

"Lush and fruity, this red wine offers flavours of cherries, raspberries, eucalyptus, wild rosemary and minerals, supported by a lively acidity and dense, refined tannins. It offers a balanced overall picture with a long, tasty aftertaste characterised by fruity and mineral elements." Wine Spectator

Intoxicating flavours of yellow fruits, pineapple, nutmeg and the faint memory of clove. An almost magical, bright sweetness on the palate, very complex and long. A great and extremely exciting Gewürztraminer from the registered single vineyard Vigna Kolbenhof. SUPERIORE.DE

"This fragrant version shows notes of rose petals and chai tea spices and is nicely cut by a strong acidity. It offers a broad mix of pink grapefruit granita, candied papaya, honeycomb and grated ginger, underscored by a hint of smoky minerality on the long, savoury finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2021 Gewurztraminer Vigna Kolbenhof blossoms with a rich blend of wildflowers, peaches and wet stone. This opens with a lovely inner sweetness perfectly contrasted by brilliant acidity as perfumed white pit fruits and minty herbal tones swirl throughout. The 2021 leaves the palate completely refreshed, leaving a salty flourish and hints of tropical citrus. It’s stunning today, yet it has the balance for a long evolution." Vinous

The small vineyard is located at an altitude of 500 m above the Galatrona Tower and offers the best conditions for growing the French grape variety Cabernet Sauvignon. Due to the limestone subsoil, this site is also called a luxury site (campo lusso). Intense and generous bouquet of dark fruits, leather and chocolate. Complex and deep on the palate, very focused and with increasing aeration very elegant and aristocratic. A complete red that will delight not only Cabernet lovers. Only about 1,300 bottles of this spectacular drop can be produced per vintage. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby with a fine garnet shimmer. Impressive nose with notes of tobacco, some smoke, plus lots of dark berries, cassis and blackberry, behind it a carpet of spices. Very juicy on the palate, lots of ripe berry fruit, then opens up with gripping, dense tannin." Falstaff

"This bright version evokes black currant, black cherry, lavender, iron and tobacco flavors. Firm and dense, with a lingering, spice-tinged finish. Very fresh and engaging." Wine Spectator

"The Petrolo 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Campo Lusso is another terrific release from the very talented team at one of Tuscany's headline estates. This expression of Cabernet Sauvignon reveals a rich, velvety texture with immediate aromas of blackberry, crème de cassis and sweet baking spice. Yet there is a slightly perfumed side to this wine with pressed flowers and a hint of church incense over exotic spice and cured leather. This is a balanced and elegant expression from Tuscany that never shows too much heaviness or weight." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Campo di Lusso, Petrolo's 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is terrific. Cabernet speaks its own dialect here, so its hard to compare the Petrolo with wines from other regions. Bright acids, potent tannins and strong savory accents abound. There is no shortage of personality or character, that much is clear. Give the tannins a few years to soften." Vinous

"Extremely perfumed aromas of blackcurrants and fresh lavender follow through to a full body with a very tight palate of dark fruit and finely textured yet chewy tannins. It’s rather subdued, but shows character and intensity. Give this at least four or five years to open. Try after 2025 and onwards." James Suckling

The grapes for Villa Donoratico, like those for Bolgheri Superiore, have recently been sourced from the estate's very best vineyards. Immediately after hand-picking, they are rigorously selected by 12 employees at 2 sorting tables and the ageing in 500-litre tonneaux ensures even more elegance and finesse. The qualitative gap to Argentiera, the winery's flagship, has thus been noticeably reduced and the wine sets new standards in the entire Bolgheri DOC.

Rich, sparkling ruby colour. Fine, subtle nose of redcurrant and herbal spice, some rosewood and fresh forest floor. Very complex and multi-layered on the palate, revealing more facets with every sip, the well-articulated fruit core is flanked by a fine-meshed tannin and leads into a very elegant, long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Very dark in the glass, almost black. The nose is very powerful. Juicy black cherry, plus preserved blackberry and a hint of blueberry. Very inviting. A little lighter in the mouth, again lots of fruit and spicy notes, with an elegant woody flavour. Crisp tannins and acidity, both well interwoven. Powerful without being heavy, animating and with good drinking flow. Goes well with game dishes." Vinum

"A dense red with flavours of blackcurrants, blackberries, vanilla, cedar and chocolate, supported by slightly grainy tannins. Rather chunky overall, but with a nice length." Wine Spectator

"The nose starts with black cherries and blackberries, but eventually notes of salt and pepper come to the fore. On the palate, the cherries linger, with chocolate complementing the rich sweetness, before a complex finish of heat, spice and dusty chalk. The tannins linger while the acidity sings." Wine Enthusiast

"Dense ruby colour with a brightening rim. Spicy on the nose, with aromas of white pepper, blackcurrant, cocoa and light tobacco notes. Velvety and soft on the palate, with firm tannins and rich fruit, with a long finish." Falstaff

"Attractive Cabernet-based red wine with aromas of redcurrants and berries and undertones of lead pencil and spices. Herbs. Full-bodied with walnut, chocolate and fruit flavours. Very fine tannins with a finesse and beauty." James Suckling

"The Argentiera 2021 Bolgheri Rosso Villa Donoratico has a forward mouthfeel with plenty of immediate intensity in the mid-palate. The wine is articulate and generous with thick layers of black fruits, stewed plums, sweet earth and pressed blackberries. You get everything you want from a Bolgheri Rosso. You even get a wine that tastes more like a Bolgheri Superiore." Wine Advocate

The pure Merlot Pàtrimo fascinates with its dense ruby red colour, which almost tends towards black and yet is clear. On the nose, it reveals aromas of black fruit with hints of sweet spices, curry, but also eucalyptus, vanilla and coffee. Volume and concentration leave a lasting impression on the palate. Extreme richness, complexity and finesse, great ageing Storage potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Black plum, walnut oil and roasted black sesame on the nose. Full-bodied and flavoursome with lots of roasted nuts and some charcoal and chocolate. Firm and chewy tannins with a strong woody finish that gives it a mahogany-coloured undertone." James Suckling

"Packaged in a very heavy bottle, this wine opens with aromas of cassis, paprika and vanilla. The velvety palate offers blackberry jam, dark chocolate and tobacco alongside polished tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"Lightly spiced and aromatic, this elegant red offers concentrated flavors of blackberry paste, plum sauce, herbed olive and graphite, plus hints of black licorice and cocoa powder. Fresh and finely knit, with sculpted tannins and a creamy, lasting finish." Wine Spectator

"The Feudi di San Gregorio 2017 Pàtrimo presents itself with a wonderfully velvety and rich appearance. This pure Merlot displays an unexpected bouquet with notes of green curry leaves and rosemary with cherry confit and pressed blackberries. This red wine from the current vintage is rich and complex." Wine Advocate

Sauvignon Bianco Rachtl comes from a small micro-location of just 0.4 hectares. It gets its fine flint and graphite nose from the porphyry soils near Unteraicha in the municipality of Völs. Very subtle on the palate with fine saline acidity, fresh fruit and a long-lasting finish. If you can call one of the 2,000 bottles of this vintage your own, you can count yourself lucky! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, pale straw yellow with a silver sheen. Intense and clear nose with notes of basil, lemon balm, green asparagus and some flint. Shows very good tension on the palate, emphasised salty components, green notes at the back, somewhat rough on the final." Falstaff

"Rich nose with notes of cooked lemons, sliced apples, savoury herbs and flowers. Medium-bodied with a creamy texture. Smooth and juicy with lively acidity. A well-made, multi-layered and complex Sauvignon Blanc." James Suckling

"A lovely, well-knit white wine, creamy but lively with vibrant acidity and a racy saline flavour, offering aromas of baked white peach, grapefruit zest, wild strawberry and fresh tarragon that spread out and linger on the long, supple finish." Wine Spectator

"Full of flavours of white peach and floral notes that pour over the juicy acidity of lemon peel and the glossy, silky texture. Wonderfully elegant and very long." Decanter

The rare Riserva Vorberg from Pinot Bianco is open, elegant and expressive. Brilliant straw yellow in colour with light green tones. Generous bouquet with delicately nuanced flavours of peach, apricot and spices. Cool, deep and with all the advantages of the grape variety on the palate. A noble Pinot Blanc with plenty of persistence and potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright straw yellow, sparkling. Roasted hazelnuts and pine nuts on the nose, with fine resinous tones, then yellow fruit with hints of pear and sage on the finish. Hearty, pure, taut on the palate with racy acidity and well-integrated fruit, medium-bodied, round and fine on the finish." Falstaff

"Initially dominated by floral scents, camomile, jasmine, peach blossom. Then also quince, pear, candied pineapple, tart grapefruit. A melting palate, now clear fruit, juicy, spicy foundation, a little salty. Vertical style, focused in the centre of the mouth." Vinous

"An elegant, fine white wine with dense flavours of yellow plum, melon rind, chamomile and lemon wax. With a slightly chalky texture and mouth-watering acidity, it is long and supple, with grapefruit peel, ground pink pepper and mineral notes on the finish." Wine Spectator

"Restrained, with notes of white flowers and peach flavours, then to a palate of restrained oak, ripe melon and peach." Decanter

"The 2021 Pinot Bianco Riserva Vorberg is youthfully upright, with an airy mix of wild herbs and dried flowers that fade into young peaches and apricots. The palate is seamlessly silky and serene, almost oily, with a lively acidity to balance and a depth of ripe fruit and mineral tones to satiate. The balance is perfect, lightly tannic and full of tension with a lemony concentration that puckers the cheeks as minty herbal notes fade. Green apple notes add a crisp sensation towards the end. This fantastic interpretation of the Vorberg will thrive in a cool cellar." Vinous

"Vorberg is one of the world's great Pinot Blancs and opens with a fragrant aroma of ripe pear, green apple and a hint of almond. On the palate, it is lively with an interplay of citrus and stone fruit, carried by a refreshing acidity. The wine culminates in a structured finish that covers the whole range of cuisine." Wine Enthusiast

"Restrained apricot skins, fairly neutral yet stylish, but with a floral bouquet that opens up. The attack is full and impressively vibrant, almost electric, with filigree elegance and a silky, weighted palate. Long and polished. This is incredible. Drink now or cellar for more complexity." James Suckling

Camartina has always been the winery's flagship, and Palafreno has now also taken its place at eye level. Compared to Palafreno (100% Merlot), Camartina consists mainly of Cabernet Sauvignon, which gives it a robust fruit profile and more freshness and straightforwardness. Sweet floral notes, red berries, mint and chalky notes give the 2019 rising top notes, energy and a fascinating liveliness. It is always elegant and even rather restrained at first. Camartina has a firm place in Querciabella's premium portfolio, not least thanks to its impressive finesse and intensity. Everything done right! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with a delicately brightening rim. Fragrant and inviting nose of savoury raspberries, light spices, some sealing wax and resin, then leather on the finish. Clear fruit on the palate, shows tightly woven tannins, polished and juicy, keeps coming back, pleasant pressure on the finish." Falstaff

"The 2019 Camartina shows dark fruit nuances with savoury tobacco and spice notes. This wine is primarily driven by the weight and concentration of the French grape, but it also shows some of the bright cherry and freshness of the Italian grape." Wine Advocate

"Fresh and imbued with flavours of blackcurrants, cherries, plums, iron and undergrowth. Wonderfully balanced, it tightens up on the finish, but shows the necessary fruit to shine through in the long aftertaste. It radiates the austerity of the vintage." Wine Spectator

"Fresh and imbued with flavours of blackcurrants, cherries, plums, iron and undergrowth. Wonderfully balanced, it tightens up on the finish, but shows the necessary fruit to shine through in the long aftertaste. It radiates the austerity of the vintage." Wine Spectator

"The Camartina 2019 is a dense, powerful wine. After tasting a whole range of Sangiovese, the Camartina stands out with its strong Cabernet character and the more pronounced presence of sweet oak. Dark red fruits, mocha, new leather, blood orange and sweet spices take shape in the glass." Vinous

"Perfumed and stylish with fresh thyme and redcurrants with some lead pencil. Medium-bodied with very crisp fruit and a bright and energetic finish. Lively acidity frames the wine with fine tannins. Shows brightness and vibrancy. Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese. At the moment it is dense, but with bottle ageing it will develop wonderfully. From organically grown grapes." James Suckling

Chiara's Barolo from the Mosconi single vineyard of the same name is powerful, muscular and full of opulence. Rich, bright ruby red colour. Rich aromas of eucalyptus, wild rosemary, plum and black cherry. Deep and powerful on the palate with beautiful spicy accents, dense tannins and a very juicy structure. For us, this Barolo belongs in the top class of the appellation, it always carries its great weight with maximum elegance and is highly authentic, completely in the style of Chiara Boschis, who has once again delivered something really great here. Please leave it in the cellar for a few more years! SUPERIORE.DE

"Stately reception on notes of pomegranate and undergrowth, spiced up with aromas of dried flowers; the tannins are full of character and well integrated, the acidity accentuated: A well-fitting wine with finesse and style." Vinum

"Rich ruby colour with a slight garnet shimmer. Opens with notes of tea, plums and raspberries, some rosewood and incense. Grippy, well-placed tannins on the palate, emphasised earthy notes, firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"Though clearly focused on its cherry, raspberry and plum fruit flavors, this red also boasts savory elements of eucalyptus and woodsy underbrush. Well-endowed, with dense, dusty tannins that shape the compact finish." Wine Spectator

"Barolo Mosconi 2020 is a powerful, flavoursome wine. Black cherry, gravel, incense, menthol and liquorice all build in this virile, taut Monforte Barolo. The 2020 has a lot to offer, it's big and powerful. Spicy herbs, earthy notes and powerful minerals permeate the powerful finish. Outstanding." Vinous

"Mosconi 2020 has something of the special ripeness of the vintage with cherry cream syrup, grenadine, watermelon sweets and a drop of pastis. The wine finishes powerfully with a balanced combination of fruit and fine oak tannins. It is very lively on the palate and the fruit is very vibrant at this young stage." Wine Advocate

"Flavours of dried oysters and intriguing wet stones with a hint of lovely peppercorn funk to the cherries, hibiscus and plums. Broad and compact on the palate with a full body and plump morello cherries in the centre. Quite extensive and long, but transparent. Even more powerful than her exciting Cannubi from this vintage." James Suckling

"A Barolo of great olfactory and flavour significance. Notes of blackcurrant, a hint of undergrowth, white pepper and citrus notes, nuances of clementine. The mouthfeel is savoury, with a spicy return and floral notes." Luca Gardini

Gualto 2016 not only reflects the extremely aristocratic exceptional vintage, but is also one of the best Riservas from 2016. On the nose, very clear and straightforward after cherry, herbs and crushed rock. Full and supple on the palate, its texture is elegant and fine, the tannins only come to the fore in the second step and are excellently balanced. This wine will only reveal its true greatness in a few years, but it already offers an extremely tasty and engaging character. For a Riserva, it has a surprising amount of fruit and an elegance that makes it one of the most charming representatives of its kind. This wine (no more than 4,000 bottles were bottled) should not be missing in any well-stocked wine cellar! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red. Hearty and inviting nose of juicy cherries and blood oranges, plus fine white pepper tones, dried tomato in the finish. Very juicy and very clear on the palate, showing fine melting and lots of juice, finesse and elegance on the long final." Falstaff

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Gualto exudes an intense aroma of medicinal cherries, wild herbs and smoky gravel. It is pure and cool, yet offers a silky texture and luxurious ripe red fruits that balance the expression well. The Riserva Gualto is lightly structured, with balsamic herbs and a subtle pull of grippy tannins. Don't expect a big, tight Riserva here; the 2016 is all about charm." Vinous

"A rather soft and juicy Brunello with cherry, chocolate, walnut and bark characters. It is tasty and fresh and has a lot to offer. Very structured and polished. Lasts for minutes. Give it two to three years to develop." James Suckling

"Bella Riserva di Camigliano, which comes from a maturation of 24 months in medium oak barrels. The nose has beautiful notes of red blueberries, marjoram and floral notes of wild violets. The mouthfeel has salty tannins, density and a fruity floral finish." Luca Gardini

"The Camigliano 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Gualto shows more precision and sharper lines compared to the 2017 wines tested here. This wine also shows a more vibrant and intact fruit character with immediate aromas of cherry, wild plum and rose. Overall, this production of 3,800 bottles shows a careful, delicate approach that suits this classic, slightly cooler vintage. This wine probably offers you the best value in this series of new releases." Wine Advocate

"With juicy aromas of cherry, raspberry, leather and spices, this red wine is supple and well structured. It features good balance and a finish that reflects the fruit while adding a mineral component. Fresh and long." Wine Spectator

The grapes for this remarkably Burgundian Gran Selezione come from the single vineyard of the same name in a 2.25-hectare Chianti Classico vineyard, which was planted in 1971 with a density of 3,400 vines per hectare and is south-facing on old terraces. Riecine has leased these plots since the 1980s, and in the 2019 debut vintage, the winery succeeded in acquiring this site, which is one of the best terroirs in the Chianti Classico region. The bottles are numbered and around 4,000 bottles and 50 magnums are bottled each year.

Spicy bouquet, delicate accents of vanilla and toasted bread, which combine with notes of cherry, strawberry and violet. Rich on the palate, with a solid structure and a long, polished final characterised by fruit, Mediterranean grass and a mineral note. Wonderful ageing potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"The second vintage of Riecine's Gran Selezione is of captivating beauty. The fragrance plays between fresh red berry fruit and fine floral notes, cranberries and blood oranges resonate on the palate, silky, brilliant, gentle and demanding in character at the same time, has a lot of freshness and great depth, fabulous elegance with a hint of candied lavender flowers on the finish. Great cinema." Weinwisser

"Brilliant, lively ruby red colour. On the nose, initially candle wax, then ripe cherries and forest fruits, reminiscent of ripe watermelon, with a second aftertaste of dark spices, some sealing wax and leather. Compact and tightly woven on the palate, polished on the tongue, very juicy and deep, with a clear fruit final." Falstaff

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2020 Vigna Gittori from the vineyards of Gaiole is aromatic, racy and very expressive. Crushed flowers, blood orange, white pepper and mint lend this medium-bodied, silky Gran Selezione a remarkable aromatic presence. The polished tannins round off the whole thing in style." Vinous

"The dense tannins of this red wine support flavours of cherry, raspberry, iron and eucalyptus. The lively acidity keeps it concentrated on the long-lasting finish. Still a little compact now, it should develop well over the next few years." Wine Spectator

"Presented in a handsome, redesigned bottle with a black wax capsule, the Riecine 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna Gittori takes a different approach to the hot vintage. It offers flavours that feel anything but overripe and in fact evoke cooler elements of wild berries, peat moss, perfumed violets, flint, campfire ash and crushed white pepper. With this more restrained ripeness comes more spice and texture from oak ageing. This wine shows a beautiful elegance." Wine Advocate

"Such purity and beauty with aromas and flavours of roses, peaches, citrus and cherries. Medium-bodied, with ultra-fine tannins that run the length of the wine. Crisp and refined. It lasts for minutes. So drinkable and beautiful now, but it will improve." James Suckling

"The latest, juicy novelty of the house, from the vineyard of the same name and refined vinification and maturation. Very balsamic on the nose, black cherry under spirits, wild rosemary and hints of nutmeg. The sip is iodised, with a fruity return and spicy sensations." Luca Gardini

Pajana - most modern wine of the entire Clerico range - presents itself closed, compressed and with great potential. Rich ruby with a light garnet rim. Compact nose, showing rich notes of blackberry, dark cherries, a little cinchona bark in the background. Explodes literally on the palate, lots of ripe, present fruit, then opens up with lots of fine-meshed tannin, salty depth, rich pressure. SUPERIORE.DE

"This Barolo features eloquent strawberry, cherry, currant and rose aromas and flavors. Gains depth from earth, wild herb and mineral accents, while the harmony and aftertaste are impressive. Resonates on the finish, remaining persistent and elegant." Wine Spectator

"The Pajana vineyard, planted between 1971 and 1991, is slightly lower than Ciabot Mentin and faces southeast. This 2019 is full of restraint: dill and liquorice are to the fore, then fresh violets and cherry with citrus freshness. It's firm and extracted, with powerful, dusty tannins and a refreshing acidity that balances the warming alcohol. It will develop well." Decanter

"The Domenico Clerico 2019 Barolo Ginestra Pajana shows a more open first impression with soft black fruits. The wine shows greater impact in terms of texture with firm structure and silky tannins. It is a little more open and approachable." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of raspberries, cherries and orange peel lead into a medium to full body, with firm and very fine tannins that are chewy but fine-grained. The acidity is also strong. Try it after 2027." James Suckling

"Notes of wild plums and rhubarb on the nose, a hint of mint from the Aosta Valley, nutmeg notes on the finish. Dense, compact mouthfeel, salty-spicy tannins, finishes with a fruity-mental aftertaste." Luca Gardini

A wine of remarkable aromatic complexity. Amarone aficionados know how many allusions these wines are capable of evoking, and it is not difficult to discern mushrooms, forest undergrowth, truffles, Havana leaves and even wild violets in this wine's aromatic profile, as well as the usual confit cherries and plums. In the mouth, the wine is remarkably concentrated yet elegant, carrying this bundle of allusions effortlessly and seamlessly through the palate. The fine pearly tannins give it support and the concentration of fruit is so great that the acidity almost fades into the background. A dense, polished and stately wine of the highest calibre. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, dark ruby red colour with a violet core. Very complex on the nose, dark cherry and plum, leather, cocoa and a hint of black tea, underlaid with bay leaf. Very dense and elegant on the palate with a great fruity centre and a beautiful melting texture, the tannins are grippy and end on a spicy note in the long final." Falstaff

"The Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva Sergio Zenato 2018 takes the finesse and airy vigour of the vintage and combines it with the opulence of the Zenato style. Sweet spices, incense, sugared cherries, cloves and mint form a seductive bouquet. The character is surprisingly feminine and juicy, with a core of tart forest fruits complemented by a hint of cedar and rosy flowers that develop towards the end. The 2018 finishes savoury and long, with just a hint of fine tannins and a pleasantly acidic sensation that tickles the cheeks." Vinous

"Flavours of baked black cherries, macerated strawberries, singed orange peel and medicinal herbs are concentrated and expressive in this rich red wine, nicely tamed by fine-grained tannins and fresh plum skin acidity. Long and fragrant, with notes of dried flowers, spices, cocoa powder and more dried herbs on the finish." Wine Spectator

"Dense garnet red in colour, with a nose of walnut shells, roasted black pepper, sour cherries and ash. Soft and supple on the palate, with a full body and ripe, silky tannins balanced by zesty acidity. Beautiful fruit with a very long, nutty aftertaste. Very attractive." James Suckling

"Rich fruit flavours of black cherry jam, black berries, tobacco, mint. Rich, elegant, fine, very delicate tannins, intense and long final." Decanter

Tasca got involved in Etna early on and the latest result of these years of experience are four new single vineyard wines from the Tascante estate: Contrada Rampante, Pianodario, Sciaranuova and Sciaranuova Vigna Vecchia (V.V.). The wines are delicate and profound, and despite their power, acidity and taut tannin, very elegant, finesse-rich and light-footed on the palate. Each of the four plots brings a slightly different style and personality to the wine - due to the altitude, soil composition and morphology of the historic lava flows. A high annual rainfall ensures that the soil has all the water it needs, and the temperature fluctuations between day and night support the aromatic diversity of the grapes and ultimately the ripening potential.

The Sciaranuova parcel is situated at an average altitude of 730 metres above sea level between the villages of Montelaguardia and Passopisciaro. It covers an area of about 4.9 hectares of vineyards. The soils are of volcanic origin and up to 40,000 years old. Within the Sciaranuova parcel is a small cru site whose vines were planted in 1961. The bottles, produced in very small quantities, are labelled "Vigna Vecchia". Compared to its "younger brother", this rare wine shows increased complexity, depth and elegance. SUPERIORE.DE

"Just mid ruby. Great concentration of red fruit on the nose. Real depth. Red cherry with dark-earth notes and hints of white pepper. Very pure and focused red-fruit palate but not open by far. Gentle tannic structure framing the fruit. Nervy yet full cherry finish with coating tannins." Jancis Robinson

"A graceful red, with finely meshed flavors of raspberry puree and black cherry gliding across the palate. Delicate accents of ground white pepper, anise, sweet smoke and dried sage add depth, lingering prettily alongside the light, taut tannins on the creamy finish." Wine Spectator

"Made with fruit from old vines, the Tenuta Tascante 2017 Etna Rosso Contrada Sciaranuova V.V. is powerful and delicate at the same time, and it strikes a careful balance between these two opposing forces. This is one of the biggest compliments you can give to a wine from Etna, one of the most dramatic and violent winemaking panoramas on Earth. This lovely Nerello Mascalese shows aromas of cherry and wild rose with toasted nut, scorched earth and lavender essence. The concentration and staying power from those old vines add considerably to the depth, tannic power and complexity of this age-worthy bottle." Wine Advocate

"Bright, radiant ruby red with a gently lightening rim. Great, fragrant nose, of geranium blossoms, rose hips, oranges, some pomegranate, very red-fruity-fresh, with fine spices in the aftertaste. On the palate polished and with clear fruit, spreads gently and steadily growing over the tongue, pithy and clear, in the finish extremely finesse-rich and long." Falstaff

"Intense, ripe and textured, it displays a good concentration of fleshy red fruits with notes of liquorice, balsam, cocoa, leather and soft spices. Broad-shouldered and ageable, it finishes elegantly with a long, mineral tang." Decanter

"Wow. Such a beautiful, old-vine red with strawberry and cherry aromas, as well hints of hazelnuts and roses. It’s full, very creamy and polished. Extremely long and flavorful. Gorgeous wine all around." James Suckling