Wine Spectator

Donnafugata's impressive declaration of love to Etna, currently the hottest wine hotspot, began with the Sul Vulcano line. Carricante is one of the most exciting grape varieties in southern Italy, capable of complexity and terroir-driven expression in the right soils. The vines for Donnafugata's only white wine from Etna grow on volcanic soils rich in minerals at an altitude of 700-750 metres. The wine is fermented in steel tanks before maturing partly in concrete tanks and partly in second and third choice barriques for 10 months and then a further nine months in the bottle.

Straw yellow with golden reflections. Bouquet of white flowers and notes of wild herbs and citrus. On the palate, it is full, fresh and flavoursome and finishes with impressive freshness, elegance and an exciting mineral vein. SUPERIORE.DE

"The nose reveals chiselled notes of pink grapefruit, herbs and citrus blossom. In the mouth, it is tightly woven, with a very fine woody touch, melting contours, mineral and salty." Weinwisser

"Straw yellow in colour. Attractive nose of fresh lemon peel, but still somewhat restrained. Mineral lemon fruit with salty hints on the finish. Can mature." Jancis Robinson

"A well-dried white wine with lush vanilla, baking spice and lime blossom accents to the flavours of glazed apple and tangerine fruit. The mouthwatering acidity is well integrated, providing definition and carrying the rich flavours through the lingering, slightly salty finish." Wine Spectator

"The Etna Bianco Sul Vulcano 2021 is intense, with a blend of flint, sweet mint, apricot and a hint of sage. It is soft and round, with a lively acidity and mineral fruit that pours over the palate and takes on a hint of sour citrus towards the end. The Sul Vulcano is a fantastic option for an entry-level Etna Bianco, and having tasted the 2016 in parallel, I can confirm that it will age beautifully." Vinous

"Juicy fruit character, delicate white flowers, ripe melon and pineapple, elegant and mineral with generous fruit." Decanter

"A gourmet wine with structure. Intense and smoky, this shows jasmine, green apples and yellow peaches. The palate is vibrant, electric and fresh with an almost tannic texture. Zesty and mineral, it’s just a bit leaner on the finish." James Suckling

Brilliant ruby red colour. Lively nose of small, primary fruity red berries, subtle use of wood and impressive race and complexity for the price. Precise and taut on the palate, showing its origins boldly and decisively. Then a harmoniously balanced mix of tobacco, leather, cedar and, of course, cherry and plum. The finely balanced tannins carry this powerful and impressive Riserva into a long final. Impressive! SUPERIORE.DE

"This wine is absolutely delicious. An arpeggio of sweet, unashamedly ripe, red berry and violet-coloured fruit that floats through the glass. Unbridled freshness. The fruit is the flutist of the vineyard. Unabashed in terms of fruit, but at the same time not obtrusively "fruity". It is complex. The tannins are silky, but have a finely powdered chalky grip. There's spice, a little liquorice bark and a hint of foliage - that kind of green-purple, velvety bloom of wild violets. And the purity of the fruit fills every molecule of the long finish. Bravo!" Jancis Robinson

"This is bright and focused, with aromas of cherries, dried oranges and hints of hibiscus and mild spices. Medium-bodied, crunchy and fresh on the palate, with very fine tannins. Polished, with mineral notes of crushed stones and citrusy nuances at the end. Shows freshness and balance." James Suckling

"Offers cherry and plum fruit, framed by flavours of earth, minerals and wild herbs. This red wine oscillates between elegance and power and is wonderfully balanced. Dusty tannins support the fruit on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"The Chianti Classico Riserva Il Grigio da San Felice 2021 is a dark, dense and rather sombre wine. Black cherry, leather, tobacco, incense and dried herbs reinforce this first impression. The 2021 is a Riserva with substance and power and has a lot to offer. It is a particularly beautiful edition of Il Grigio." Vinous

The eruption of 1614 is legendary in the history of Etna, as it lasted ten years, making it the longest recorded eruption of the active volcano to date. A very impressive and fitting name for Planeta's Etna series of equally impressive wines.

It could hardly be more autochthonous: this excellent wine from the Nerello Mascalese grape comes from the hotspot on the east coast of Sicily, from the slopes of Mount Etna. Bright cherry red in colour, a fine aroma of raspberry and blood orange, gripping, taut acidity, silky tannins and a lively elegance with beautiful minerality. Great, long and unique! SUPERIORE.DE

"Impressive aromas of mulberries and flowers; juicy on the palate, beautifully polished, balanced and elegant through to the final, red berry flavours, soft, honey notes and yet the acidity is in balance. A lovely accompaniment to food." Vinum

"Burgundy-inspired bouquet with red berries, light strawberries, red cherries and balsamic notes, sage. Well-structured on the palate with gripping red berry fruit, sandy tannins and a savoury, peppery acidity structure that lingers into the final." Weinwisser

"It shows aromas of ripe cherries and grilled plums, with fragrant flavours of cigar box spices, broom and wild rosemary that linger on the fine, taut finish." Wine Spectator

"Cherries and cranberries with some candied watermelon both on the nose and on the palate. Medium body, creamy tannins and a tangy finish. Juicy." James Suckling

"The 2020 Sicilia Nerello Mascalese Eruzione 1614 opens in a medium dark ruby red colour with lively primary fruit. Wild berries and cassis are underpinned by gently rendered oak tones of cinnamon and campfire ash. Although technically outside the DOC area (just a few metres), this is one of the finest sites on Etna. The tannins are firm but silky, which means you can drink this bottle straight away without ageing." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 is decidedly savoury, exuding hints of grilled rosemary and sage, ashen stones and crushed blackberries. On the palate, it is characterised by juicy forest fruits, underscored by a hint of blood orange and zesty acidity. It tapers off long and gently tannic, closing on a pleasantly bitter note as the minty herbal tones fade. Wow." Vinous

"The nose begins spicy and herbaceous with notes of stone, salt, pepper, oregano and fennel before lighter flavours of cherry blossom, hibiscus and strawberry emerge. On the palate, the cherry and strawberry flavours sparkle, while a lingering, salty stoniness balances a silky smooth texture with an intense, salty freshness." Wine Enthusiast

Beautiful white from Carricante that captures the energy of Etna and reflects its essence. Sparkling lemon yellow with a drop of gold. Yellow stone fruit, mint, flowers and spice aromas on the nose. Complex flavour, full fruit and subtle minerality on the palate. Racy, delicately flavoured and sophisticated. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, light golden yellow colour. Elegant and subtly fragrant bouquet, notes of juicy peach, honeydew melon, lime blossom, some white pepper. Finesse on the palate, silky texture, juicy fruit, invigorating acidity, very harmonious." Falstaff

"Tantalising notes of chamomile and cumin draw you into the glass of this bright and balanced Etna Bianco. Flavours of poached apricot, grainy pear, lemon thyme and beeswax are rounded off by a well-cut acidity that leaves a delicious impression on the mineral finish." Wine Spectator

"A burst of crushed stones, green apples with ginger, fennel and dried flowers creates an invigorating bouquet as the 2023 Etna Bianco explodes from the glass. It is silky and enveloping, with a tart hint of green melon and salty, mineral tones that create tension in the cheeks. The 2023 rejuvenates wickedly fresh yet strong. The concentration of sour citrus fruit remains, while hints of kiwi and fresh mint slowly recede." Vinous

"The flavours of sliced apples, flowers and flint come through clearly here. Medium to full-bodied with a lovely character and vibrancy, this is concentrated and balanced, showing plenty of fruit and a bright finish." James Suckling

Benantis Etna Bianco from 100% Carricante is a delicately perfumed expression of Carricante with gentle mineral notes, white flowers and light flavours of peach or nectarine. The true protagonist, however, are the carefully dosed volcanic tones of ash and smoke. The bouquet will become even more refined with a year or more of ageing in the bottle. Fresh and round on the palate, great acidity and a saline vein, with a subtle sweetness on the finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"This lean, minerally white is well cut and refreshing, with flavours of plump white cherry, lemon oil, spun honey and chamomile spreading across the palate, underscored by lingering notes of mineral smoke and salt on the savoury finish." Wine Spectator

"Expressive and robust, showing powerful elegance and great textural appeal, this is a Carricante that balances classicism and modernity. Green apple, quince, and white grapefruit at the core with an elegant top layer of lemon balm, white roses and linden. Very long on the palate with focus and a delicious chalky grip that makes it linger on the palate. Lingering notes of grapefruit pith, preserved lemon and pear peel." Decanter

Purple-red colour with black-violet reflections. Wonderfully concentrated and extracted Barbera with the right blend of power, fruit and juiciness. Some plum jam, black chocolate and spices combine to create a dark fruity firework of flavours, framed by finely polished tannins and accompanied by a long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Simultaneously lush and fluid, with flavours of black cherry, blackcurrant, earth and toasted spice that blend seamlessly. Balanced, with a firm, juicy finish that defines the fruit and oak accents." Wine Spectator

"The 2021 Barbera d'Alba Superiore Pairolero is a heady, explosive wine. Black cherry, new leather, licorice, cloves and gravel infuse the Barbera with so much flavor intensity. Bright acids lend quite a bit of energy throughout. The 2021 is incredibly promising." Vinous

Fórra, an elegant small-batch white wine, is made purely from Manzoni Bianco and has an interesting history and an exciting development. Lageder's project with this grape variety began several years ago and resulted in the crossing of Rhine Riesling and Pinot Bianco. Traditional methods were used in the cellar to ensure freshness and vibrancy. Contact with the skins over several days sharpens the profile of the wine. After spontaneous fermentation, Fórra remains on its lees in wooden barrels for several months. Fórra exudes all this passion and love, all this experience and craftsmanship - a wonderful, great pleasure. SUPERIORE.DE

"This distinctive, medium-bodied white wine feels soft and silky. A tangy salinity and a slight chalkiness do more than the soft orange peel acidity to create a lively balance to the flavours of baked melon and pear, dried thyme, ground nutmeg, walnut skin and honeycomb." Wine Spectator

"Manzoni bianco is a super fresh grape variety, a valuable resource in view of the rising temperatures in this era of climate change. Aromas of pears, white peaches, lime peel and lemon leaves. It’s soft on the palate, with a silky texture, sharp acidity, peach flavors and a polished finish in spite of its citrus peel aftertaste." James Suckling

Crognolo is a wonderfully balanced wine that offers the tangy freshness and acidity of Sangiovese, which is balanced and softened by the small proportion of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine smells of cherry, blackberry and plum. Its primary intensity is bright and cheerful. The finish shows a nice density, extraction and well-integrated tannins. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Crognolo 2021 is a great entry-level wine from Sette Ponti. An explosion of red/purple fruits, blood orange, spices and rose petals race across the palate, lifted by bright acids that add energy. All elements are very well balanced. This is a very inviting wine." Vinous

"Dusty, perfumed aromas of spiced plums with sour cherries and dried cherries are followed in the mouth by a vertical palate full of fine-grained tannins, fresh acidity and juicy fruit. It feels balanced and upright, ready to spring into action as soon as the cork is pulled. Vibrant red and black fruits intermingle, punctuated by a certain saltiness and supported by those tannins. The finish is long, juicy and flavoursome and leaves you wanting another sip." Decanter

"This young red wine shows all its components in the right place, but needs time to integrate. It offers flavours of cherry, violet, earth, iron and mint, which fade into powerful tannins on the finish." Wine Spectator

"Bright ruby violet colour. Expressive flavours of blackberries and rich cherries, with fine spicy components in the background. Compact, concentrated on the palate, with grippy tannins that also become juicy, salty on the finish." Falstaff

"The wine shows dark concentration, certainly more than you'd expect from Sangiovese, with lots of cherry, spice and blue flower that ties directly into the Merlot. It offers a medium to full-bodied texture with fine, chalky tannins." Wine Advocate

"Ultra-fresh, juicy cherries with more delicate aromas of violets and rose petals on the nose roll onto a palate rich with more cherries and berries balanced by earthy, tart notes of earth, branches and roots and a finish of bitter cocoa and aniseed." Wine Enthusiast

"The purity of the fruit in this wine is impressive, with redcurrants, orange peel, peaches and lemon on the nose and palate. Full-bodied yet compressed and agile. Tasty finish. Restrained now, but given a year or two it will come into its own." James Suckling

Bright ruby red colour and the typical vinous, slightly grassy bouquet of Pinot Noir. The flavour is elegant and refined, pleasantly full-bodied and balanced. SUPERIORE.DE

"An elegant, light- to medium-bodied red, with a core of juicy cherry, cranberry and raspberry fruit flavors trimmed by light, taut tannins. This is refreshing and balanced, with a mix of smoke, dried thyme and milled pepper notes adding fine detail to the finish." Wine Spectator

With the Vignota, vinified from five different vineyards, the winery also proves that a great deal of excitement is possible even in the so-called entry-level range. Thanks to the marl and limestone soils, this wine offers plenty of natural intensity. Delicious bouquet of cherry jam, mint and rose petals. Very densely woven on the palate, with a juiciness, freshness and subtle fruit sweetness that makes this wine an irresistible accompaniment to food. SUPERIORE.DE

"This rich Barbera is full of black cherries, blackberries and plums and shows a slight hint of toasted oak on the finish. Well integrated and long." Wine Spectator

"The 2022 Barbera d'Alba Vignota is a beautiful expression with elegant fruit, dried blueberries, blackcurrants and a dusty mineral note framing the whole with clean and crisp lines. It has a medium fullness of fruit and an alcohol level of 15%, which is picked up by the wine's dense texture. Nevertheless, this is by no means a heavy wine." Wine Advocate

"A red with ripe berries, strawberries and hints of orange peel. Medium- to full-bodied with juicy tannins. Round and slightly crunchy." James Suckling

Schiopetto's Friulano is youthfully unobtrusive with a pretty bouquet that blends lemon peel with mint and hints of crushed rock. It washes over the palate with a tense mix of citrusy acids and salty minerals, while a core of tropical melon develops towards the end. Finishes on a more delicate note, but long and with pretty inner flowers that still linger. The beautiful balance and underlying power of this wine will guarantee good ageing in the bottle. The best is yet to come. SUPERIORE.DE

"Hawthorn blossom on the nose and then that indefinable, seamless, petal-wax smoothness-that-is-Friulano on the palate. It has Friulano's macadamia-nut-carved-into-flower smooth, sweet, floral oiliness. Kind of hard to define, kind of delicate, kind of ploppy (like fat rain drops). Poached-pear sweetness. A wine that would be delicious with anything soft and green and drenched in buttery beurre blanc. Wonderful with cold, minty lamb sausages." Jancis Robinson

"Lithe and well-balanced, this mouthwatering white has lively hints of grapefruit zest, milled white pepper and lemon thyme underscoring juicy tangerine, peach skin and lentil notes." Wine Spectator

"The 2022 Friulano wafts up with a delicate bouquet, blending minty herbs and wet stone with green apples and lime zest. This flows across the palate with ease, crisp and cool-toned in feel, with saline mineral tones adding a tactile feel as candied citrus notes resonate throughout. It finishes clean and with medium length, leaving a salty sensation and the mouth watering for more." Vinous

"Oyster shell, light flint, match stick, dried pear, and apple puree aromas and flavors. Medium to full body. Layered. Very minerally. Tight and focused. Serious." James Suckling

Bright straw yellow with golden reflections. Fresh yellow apple, some pear and hay on the nose. Full-bodied and pleasant on the palate, then savoury and with well-dosed acid wire. Wonderfully structured, with a tang that makes you long for the next glass. A great white wine from central Tuscany. SUPERIORE.DE

"This is vibrant and complex, featuring lemon oil, peach, apple, vanilla and toast aromas and flavors. Elegant in profile, this white is charming, harmonious and long." Wine Spectator

"Made with 100% Trebbiano, the organic Dievole 2021 Campinovi shows aromas of citrus, apple, orchard fruit and hints of exotic vanilla. The wine has a slightly waxy or creamy side to its constitution that would work with a pairing of chicken with Moroccan spices." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 Campinovi is a gorgeous, understated white. Floral notes meld into a core of green pear, apple, mint, white pepper and tangerine peel. Airy and gracious, this is impeccably done." Vinous

"A pure trebbiano, showing density and freshness. Full and phenolic with excellent length and depth. Drinks well, but will age beautifully." James Suckling

Pergolaia consists mainly of Sangiovese with smaller proportions of Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The wine opens with a medium-bodied attack and a bright bouquet characterised by notes of cherry, wild plum, ploughed earth and pressed blue flowers. This very Mediterranean-style red with a strong personality envelops the palate with a delicate, silky intensity. SUPERIORE.DE

"Attractive red fruit character with orange peel, cured meat and wet stones on offer. Medium to full-bodied, firm and straightforward with fine tannins and juicy acidity that gives it freshness and crispness. Bright and velvety finish." James Suckling

"Aromas and flavours of blackcurrant, black olive tapenade, violets and cedar dominate this red wine, which is characterised by purity and precision, while densely woven tannins contribute to a velvety texture. Balanced and long." Wine Spectator

"On the nose, aromas of rose petals soften a bold, tart fruitiness, while savoury notes of earth and ash lead to a palate that starts fleshy and spicy before a gentle, tempering sweetness emerges, providing a sense of comfort. Intentional and satisfying." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2020 Pergolaia, the winery's Sangiovese blend, is a beautiful, exotic wine. Ripe red cherry fruit, white pepper, mint, rose petals and cinnamon bring out the racy side of the Sangiovese. Small amounts of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon round off the blend. All the elements are so beautifully balanced." Vinous

Fine traditional brut from the Lunelli family, who work tirelessly on the authenticity of their Trentino sparkling wines. A wide range of aromas and an elegant flavour with a good structure offer first-class enjoyment. SUPERIORE.DE

"A hint of nuttiness that underlines the flavours of preserved lemon and pear. Redcurrant richness, creamy, rich and round, with an impressive mousse and tangy red apple bite. The well-formed and well-integrated bubbles give the wine a creamy texture that melds with the richness of the fruit. Sweet spices and nougat cream on the finish. Great stuff." Decanter

"The Brut Trento opens with a blend of dusty dried flowers, cardamom and freshly sliced pears. It fills the palate with a silky pearl of fine bubbles and takes on a savoury to sweet sensation, while tactile mineral tones mingle with ripe fruit trees. It finishes with admirable length and candied citrus fruits that taper off remarkably fresh. I love the balance and complexity of this wine, especially for a non-vintage brut." Vinous

"A refined and expressive aperitif-style sparkling wine. On the palate, it is bright and lively, with a fine, lacy mousse that carries a delicious palette of pineapple, tangerine peel and white cherry fruit, accented by ground ginger, white flowers and fleur de sel." Wine Spectator

"The nose is a tantalizing medley of crisp green apples, zesty lemon, and a hint of toasty brioche. On the palate, a lively chorus of citrus fruits and white peaches harmonizes with a subtle undercurrent of minerality. The bubbles are so fine and persistent, they'll make your taste buds dance with joy. The finish is refreshing and clean, leaving you craving another sip." Wine Enthusiast

Everything is just right here: Brolio Riserva is classic in its composition, in its ageing, in its overall impression from the label to the last sip. Velvety, dense ruby colour, dense nose with rich fruit, especially blackberry, some elderberry and a beautiful herbal spice. Juicy and supple on the palate, the finish is polished with fine-grained tannins and a long-lasting final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red colour. Hints of cherry on the nose and slightly dried fruit in the aftertaste. Balanced on the palate with a medium structure, the acidity lends drinkability, paired with a persistent finish." Falstaff

"Infused with cherry, strawberry, iron and spice flavors, this bright red is also solidly built. Smooth in texture, nimble and intense, finishing with echoes of red fruit and dusty tannins." Wine Spectator

"A cellar selection from parcels throughout Ricasoli’s 235 hectares in Gaiole, this Riserva gives a panoramic view of the Brolio estate. Each plot is fermented separately in stainless steel, matured in diverse types of wood, and assembled after ageing. The nose is focused and forthcoming, and offers a balanced mix of red cherry and violet with whiffs of Mediterranean herbs, tobacco and vanilla. Fine-grained tannins are firmly stitched around the lush plum core, while juicy acidity carries the bitter orange finish." Decanter

"The 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva Brolio has ripe fruit, toasted spice and a hint of scorched earth. Made with all Sangiovese, the wine presents mid-weight intensity with an intense bouquet that is driven by savory notes and a hint of something charred, such as dustings of campfire ash." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva Brolio is a gorgeous, complex wine. Dark cherry, plum, leather, licorice, lavender and graphite bring out the darker side of Sangiovese in this mysterious, introspective Riserva. A wine of dynamic energy and substance, the 2021 is very nicely done." Vinous

"Sweet spices, savory plums, cherries, dried citrus and minerals on the nose. Fine-grained on the palate, with a medium to full body and a convincing amount of tannins. Long and fresh." James Suckling

"The nose has both the tang of black cherries and blackberries and the texture of coffee grinds, pepper and earth. The mouthfilling palate stays balanced between tart and sweet berries and tangy, peppery earthiness, all set aflame by fiery acid but held in careful balance by decisive tannins." Decanter

Pietrabianca offers a contrast between richness and freshness and seduces with a blend of white flowers, almond paste, wet stone and crushed red pears. Silky and supple, it caresses the palate with an elegant wave of ripe peach and nectarine. Lingers long, leaving a mineral and acidic tension as notes of candied lime fade. Not only is it stunning today, but it has a bright future. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense straw yellow with sparkling reflections. Yellow peach, banana and orange blossom on the nose, with a subtle aftertaste of roasted almonds, cocoa butter and flint. Smooth on the palate, with a fine fruity flavour and subtle spiciness, soft and balanced, with a fine woody aroma and a certain saltiness on the final." Falstaff

"Fresh and graceful, with delicate notes of glazed apples, apricots and mandarins, with fragrant hints of macadamia nuts, honeysuckle and vanilla. Clean and slightly salty on the finish." Wine Spectator

"Lemon curd, honeysuckle, chopped apples and pears on the nose, plus some vanilla. It’s soft and creamy with medium to full body and pretty floral influences." James Suckling

Winkl is the winery's second cult wine after the iconic South Tyrolean Sauvignon, Quarz. A wonderfully accentuated wine. Sauvignon Winkl smells of lime, mandarins and mint with a hint of apricot, the bouquet is also reminiscent of crushed rock. Full of character on the palate with a fine acid wire, complex, well-structured, rich in flavour and long. SUPERIORE.DE

"Crystalline bouquet with finely characterised fruit, fine yellow fruit and fresh herbs. Well-proportioned on the palate, very balanced with a fine mellowness and linear orientation." Weinwisser

"Bright, brilliant straw yellow with a greenish tinge. Grassy notes of gooseberry, some pink grapefruit, followed by blackcurrant. Fresh on the palate, pleasantly crisp, linear, opens up well with exotic fruit, light and pleasantly spicy in the medium final." Falstaff

"Flavours of melon, grapefruit sorbet, lemon curd, chive blossom and pickled ginger glide over the palate of this creamy white wine, which has good length and concentration. Expressive without excessive weight, while the mineral finish is moulded by a racy acidity." Wine Spectator

The Biancosesto is a true Friulian made from equal parts of the local Ribolla Gialla and Friulano grape varieties. Fresh, citrus-fruity aroma with hints of apple and pear, accompanied by a full-bodied, harmonious and pleasantly dry flavour. A refined interpretation of down-to-earthness with a beautiful arc of tension. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright olive green with straw yellow colour. Juicy citrus fruit on the nose, elderberry, juicy pink peach, rose petal, grapefruit, pomegranate, inviting. Fresh, juicy, clear on the palate, with well-defined fruit, full of tension and accessible, pure drinking pleasure." Falstaff

"Perfumed, elegant nose with citrus blossom and menthol, rich on the palate with candied fruit." Decanter

"This bright white features juicy pineapple, passion fruit and lychee notes accented by hints of grated ginger, ground cardamom, vanilla and white blossoms. Well-knit and lightly chalky in texture, with a focused, mineral-driven finish." Wine Spectator

"I like the undertones of crushed stone in the grapefruit and gooseberry flavours. It's bright, creamy and citrusy, with a medium body and a lively, zesty finish." James Suckling

"The Tunella 2022 Friuli Colli Orientali Biancosesto emphasises its modernist style with a very rich and creamy texture that comes from ageing in large Slavonian oak barrels. The blend consists of equal parts Friulano and Ribolla Gialla, and the fruit benefits from marl and sandstone soils that develop freshness and sweet concentration. This wine is complex and rich with ripe fruit, apricots and pears. It is a 360-degree expression with an extra dose of opulence to finish." Wine Advocate

Grave di Stecca is Nino Franco's exposed single vineyard on the slopes of the Prealpi. The south-facing vineyard is planted exclusively with the Prosecco grape Glera. Brilliantly shiny white gold, gently emerging perlage, a bouquet of sage with a fresh fruit scent. Very pleasantly dry on the palate, silky and long - the undisputed great top growth of the renowned Prosecco forge. SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful bright lemon yellow with green accents. Distinctive aroma of delicate herbs (thyme), ripe pineapple and passion fruit, plus fine brioche notes and nut butter. Builds up richly, fills the entire palate, delicate and multi-layered in the drink, coherent, also complex and long-lasting in the finish." Falstaff

"Lush aromas of glazed apples and baked nectarines are well defined by a bright, lively acid structure in this elegant example. The texture is soft and creamy, with fragrant notes of lime zest, Earl Grey tea and graphite in the mid-palate and finish, with a hint of fleur de sel melting on the finish." Wine Spectator

"On the nose, a rich blend of cider apple, yuzu and hints of green tea and almond. Very fruity on the palate too, with a medium fizz and a tasty, spicy finish. Lots of character." James Suckling

"The 2016 Brut Grave di Stecca displays a brilliant golden colour in the glass, with a stunning bouquet of peach jam and sweetly spiced flowers, contrasted by wild herbs and crushed stone. The texture is creamy yet edgy, with zesty acidity that pinches the cheeks, but also an abundance of ripe fruit trees and floral scents that arch across the palate. It leaves a hint of ginger and a bitter hint of roasted hazelnuts, but the finish is one of cleansing freshness. The 2016 is not about power or fruit, but delicacy and graceful impact. I love it. Grave di Stecca is a single vineyard in the hills of Valdobbiadene with old Glera vines." Vinous

"Light and airy, this lovely sparkling wine has inviting aromas of ripe white stone fruit, spring flowers and baking spices. On the dry, foamy palate, elegant perlage and fresh acidity accompany ripe yellow apples, Bartlett pear, vanilla cake cream and a hint of white almond." Wine Enthusiast

"Grave di Stecca represents both the best of Prosecco – specifically Valdobbiadene – and the best of what is not ‘Prosecco’; the authorities refused to certify it as DOCG due to its atypical style, so to this day Nino Franco bottles it as a vino spumante in protest. The grapes are sourced from the walled Grave di Stecca vineyard, the site of the family residence, purchased by Franco in 1991. Super-aromatic and exotically scented, with passion fruit and ripe banana, in the mouth it’s very mineral and earthy, intense and rich but well sculpted. Tropical and spicy, it’s slightly creamy – almost mushroomy – with a lip-smacking saline finish. This wine can age well thanks to extended lees ageing of the base wines then long maturation in bottle before release." Decanter

Tantalising aromas of tart plums, boysenberries and wildflowers rise from the glass of this energetic and unique Barbera. The fleshy palate is fuelled by tart blue and black fruits, with a mix of spice and mouth-watering acidity on the finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense purple-red colour with a dark core. Inviting, fruit-accentuated bouquet, blackberries and blueberries, with a hint of violets and some cloves. Very soft and generous on the palate, firm tannins and a lingering, juicy finish." Falstaff

"An opulent style that combines a velvety texture with rich flavours of plum, black cherry, boysenberry and vanilla. Harmonious and lively, with a light touch of tannins on the finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2022 Barbera d'Alba is packed with ripe red cherry/plum fruit. Mocha, spice, cedar and leather add layers of nuance. This succulent, forward Barbera is an absolute delight." Vinous