Wine Spectator

The heartfelt project "Archivio Storico Zenato" was brought to life by Nadia Zenato in order to pay special attention to the excellence of an entire region. Just 2,000 0.75-litre bottles and 400 magnums are sold in selected specialist shops.

The grapes for this jewel come from the oldest vines on the hills of Sant'Ambrogio di Valpolicella. During and after the harvest, a strict selection of the grapes takes place, then the grapes dry in small wooden boxes (fruttai) in well-ventilated rooms and are gently pressed after the appassimento process is finished. Fermentation takes place on the skins for about 20 days, after which the wine is aged for 10 years in a large Slavonian oak barrel. SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep, dark ruby red. In the nose open-hearted and accessible, of cranberry jam, bright spicy notes, cloves, anise, then Amarena cherries, mint, a hint of prune, toasted walnut, complex and multilayered. On the palate juicy, dark fruit, then tightly woven, punchy tannin, with a slightly salty undertone, endlessly long." Falstaff

"A rich, harmonious red, offering a lovely, detailed range of baked cherry, toffee, dried lemon thyme, fig cake and toasted cardamom flavors, with a subtle smoky underpinning. Soft, citrus peel acidity and seamlessly integrated creamy tannins provide a fine, supple frame. This is aging gracefully." Wine Spectator

"The 2008 Amarone della Valpolicella Archivio Storico Zenato is available in numbered bottles (I tasted bottle 0237 of 2,500 made). The packaging is elegant, and the bottle is made with heavy glass. The contents are rich and almost overdone with spice, jammy ripe fruit and blackberry preserves. Corvina, Rondinella, Oseleta and Croatina grapes are dried for 120 days. Despite the wine's large and heavy frame, it does carry itself with impressive elegance and grace." Wine Advocate

"This is an amazing Amarone with incredible aromas of dried fruit, raisins, chocolate and spice. Intense dried flowers. Fruit tea. Minerals. Full-bodied with a deep and rich finish. Juicy and chewy. Incredible structure. Dry finish. One to age for decades ahead in the cellar. Only 2,000 bottles made." James Suckling

Chiara Boschi's Cannubi 2020 beguiles on the nose with layers of fragrant fruit. A sensual Barolo and yet quite typical in its vineyard character. Soft, silky tannins frame the long finish. A wonderful wine, characterised by its balance and above all by the sweetness of its tannins. Very full-bodied, focussed and with great length. SUPERIORE.DE

"Exciting attack of stone fruit, dried flowers and herbs; powerful texture, combines character and polish, has length and ends on complex notes of forest fruits and spices." Vinum

"Sparkling, rich ruby colour with a fine garnet sheen. Initially of tea and rose petals, then blackberry and wild raspberry, some graphite in the background. Lots of red berry fruit, especially black cherry, then gripping tannin, gives the wine depth, savoury and long." Falstaff

"The Barolo Cannubi 2020 is elegant, silky and nuanced. Crushed red berry fruit, mint, cinnamon and orange peel give this medium-bodied, restrained Barolo a remarkable aromatic presence. All elements are beautifully balanced throughout. The 2020 is a lovely wine, but a lighter style even for Cannubi. The lighter body makes the tannins seem a little austere. It will be interesting to see how it develops." Vinous

"The talented Chiara Boschis has created a jewel from this cru in 2020. Pure mint and liquorice scents with deep notes of dried cherries, leather and blood orange. Very elegant with great persistence and a classic finish." Decanter

"A well of pure cherry bubbles up in this red, complemented by rose, strawberry, mineral, wet pine and underbrush aromas and flavors. Though exuding finesse, this is layered with chalky tannins, yet still extends with a kaleidoscope of red fruit, mineral and savory notes on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"Nervous and complex nose with excellent depth. Oranges, nutmeg, steel, minerals and a hint of white pepper and oyster shells. Broad and expansive on the palate with very structured, chalky tannins that expand into a long, mineral finish. Long and youthful." James Suckling

"Chiara Boschi's 2020 Barolo Cannubi is a fine and delicate wine, even if it is a little more pithy and rich in this warm vintage. The quality of the fruit is exceptional, especially the crisp ripeness. Dark cherry, blackcurrant, rose petal, pink pepper and white limestone add considerable notes. The freshness is great and the fruit remains juicy, leading to a long, elegant finish. Only 4,000 bottles were produced." Wine Advocate

"A wine of density, tension and crispness. On the nose, notes of cranberry, hints of blood orange and liquorice root, with a powerful finish of wild mint. Salty, juicy tannins on the palate, with a return of small red fruits and mentholated notes." Luca Gardini

If there is one thing that Giacomo Neri has mastered 100%, it is harvesting at the optimum ripening time. He knows his estate and his vines better than most and it shows. The fruit for Tenuta Nuova is harvested from a south and south-east facing slope at 250 to 300 metres above sea level. The soils are loose and mixed with gravel, which allows access to air and moisture.

The flavours of Tenuta Nuova 2019 flow with seamless transitions, and this fluid and ever-changing nature of the bouquet helps to develop intensity and persistence. In the beautifully drawn bouquet, blackberry, plum and summer cherry merge into lingering flavours of spice, leather and herbs. These are always an unmistakable feature of this winery's Brunello and develop steadily with further aeration. The palate reveals a great structure with mineral accents, a fine orange peel flavour, present fruit and numerous spicy components. This wine is a bit like an iron fist in a velvet glove - but with much more velvet glove than iron fist. The finish is long and, as so often with Neri, invigoratingly salty with an undertone of oyster shells. Great potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"Dense, deeply layered bouquet, wide-ranging with dark red flavours, wow, it's captivating. The palate is also complex and multi-layered with earthy, truffled nuances, very territorial, firm structure, penetrating acidity, firm tannic grip, a wine for the ages. The single vineyard Tenuta Nuova is once again one of the best in the tasting. Bravo!" Weinwisser

"Dark ruby red with light violet reflections. Complex on the nose, iron, dark cherry fruit, rich plum, some lovage. On the palate with lots of salt and juice, complex, comes in many layers, with tightly woven tannins, powerful and with full splendour, keeps coming back, big." Falstaff

"Black cherries with violets and other flowers on the nose. Full-bodied with powerful tannins and a juicy finish. Needs time to mellow." James Suckling

"The fruit profile of this red wine is ripe, with flavours of boysenberries, cherries and raspberries, with nuances of earth, iron and tobacco. More linear than square, with a steely line of acidity and tannins in support. Although balanced, it is compact for the moment and has a nice length." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova is an understated beauty, perfumed and highly aromatic, with a gorgeous blend of dried black cherry, clove, hints of sage and spiced blood orange. It is cool-toned and classic in feel, with silken textures and vibrant acidity that enlivens the core of tart red berry fruits. A cascade of violet and lavender tones resonate over a coating of fine-grained tannins as it flexes its structural muscle, tapering off long and potent and demanding the taster's attention. This will pay dividends in the cellar." Vinous

"In my opinion, this is the wine that best represents the Casanova di Neri style. With 30 months of ageing, it shows enormous richness and texture, and the outstanding fruit quality appears with more primary elegance compared to the more expensive Cerretalto. This dynamic is particularly pronounced in the comparison between the 2019 and 2018 vintages. The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova has a dark vein of roasted spices, black fruits, ink, blackberry compote, liquorice and star anise. Dark as night, it is exceptionally well-crafted with a robust delivery of concentrated fruit and solid tannin structure. It has excellent cellaring potential." Wine Advocate

"Notes of cherries and pepper leaves, with a hint of iodine. Opens juicy and taut on the palate, then expands in breadth and depth. Salty, juicy tannins and an officinal trace mark the finish is deep, big drink and long persistence." Luca Gardini

"In making a great wine, the primary goal is to emphasise, perfect and seal in a bottle all the extraordinary characteristics of the territory: from the different soils to the microclimate, from the vibrant power of the Mediterranean maquis to the fresh sea breeze." Stanislaus Turnauer (winery owner)

Actually, the single vineyard of just 1 hectare is unique, as it only comprises a small hilltop in the shape of a fan (Italian: ventaglio). The grapes from here have always been at the top of the winery's production and so it was decided to vinify them separately from the 2015 vintage onwards - and the new top wine "Ventaglio" was born.

Due to the curious location and geographical orientation of the vineyard in all directions, there are morning grapes, midday grapes and evening grapes here and they represent the respective site-specific microclimate in an impressive way. Likewise, through the subsequent joint processing, they give their differences in aromatic development, maturity and freshness as a total work of art in this exceptional wine, in which every nuance of the terroir, no matter how small, is expressed correctly and in a balanced manner.

Complex and with a noble body, balanced by an undeniable elegance, Ventaglio appears as the overall expression of Cabernet Franc, which grows particularly well in the Bolgheri area. This first site wine of the Tenuta, symbol of decades of experience in single-varietal winemaking, is vinified only in special vintages in an extremely limited number of bottles. SUPERIORE.DE

"Compact, spicy nose with rich blackberry and dark currant notes, plus cedar and cigar box, finely woven. Gripping and powerful on the palate, opens with dense tannin in many layers, spicy notes, plus dark berry fruit and some liquorice." Falstaff

"This red has a lot going on, featuring intense, saturated flavors of black cherry, plum, fig, wild rosemary and iron, with a vibrant, dense structure. Balanced, with a long, resonant finish." Wine Spectator

"A beautiful, complex red with blackcurrants, sage, rosemary and sweet tobacco. Red tile, too. Full-bodied, very linear and fine-grained with great intensity and power. Such purity and length. This 100% cabernet franc is made from only one hectare, producing 3,000 bottles. Needs another three to four years to open and definitely one for the cellar." James Suckling

"This is a new wine from Tenuta Argentiera, an estate that is positioning itself well to become an icon on the Tuscan Coast. The 2016 Ventaglio is a headline expression of Cabernet Franc from a vineyard that I have been lucky enough to visit. It is lovely to see this spot with rows of vines that fan out (hence the name Ventaglio, or "fan" in Italian) from a sole oak tree that is perfectly framed between the cobalt Tyrrhenian Sea and the blue sky above. If there is a heaven where grapevines live, the Ventaglio vineyard may just be it. This vintage is super chiseled and sharp with generous and abundant black fruit that is tightly framed by spice, tobacco, dried herb and a touch of bitter chocolate and dusty mineral. There is some phenolic tartness that points to the wine's youth and bodes well for its future aging. The finish is layered, deep and rich." Wine Advocate

Fragrant and fresh on the nose with beautiful concentration and complexity. Summery aromas of stone fruit, ripe peach, jasmine and a hint of fragrant beeswax. The racy, slender mouthfeel has a certain density and reveals an elegant hint of gravel and chalk and flavours of white almonds on the finish. Everything is already in its place here, but it will gain in complexity with further bottle ageing. SUPERIORE.DE

"Straw yellow colour with golden reflections. On the nose, it exudes impressively complex aromas, including apricot and acacia blossom, accompanied by spicy notes and roasted hazelnuts. On the palate, the wine captivates with a true panorama of aromas and flavours, spicy but at the same time full-bodied, with a very long aromatic persistence in the final.
Olga Fusari, Oenologist (bis 2023)

"Bright straw yellow with green nuances. Aromas of apricot, grapefruit and redcurrant, with delicate saline notes. Juicy on the palate, shows presence with lots of crisp fruit, fresh, lemony notes, long-lasting and savoury." Falstaff

"Complex aromas of ripe stone fruit and acacia blossom, but also subtle mint and spice notes; extremely harmonious texture, very well supported by the acidity, lots of exotic fruit with exquisite bitter almond notes on the final." Vinum

"This silky white wine has an almost creamy texture and shows flavours of flowers, peach, sage and mint with a hint of grapefruit pulp. Complex, balanced and long, with a savoury component in the lingering aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"Ornellaia Bianco 2021 is now a pure Sauvignon Blanc. This wine plays its best cards in terms of texture. It has broad shoulders and enough texture to support the many creamy citrus and delicately tropical flavours. A hint of crushed stone adds elegance." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 Ornellaia Bianco is seductive. I sense a little more textural richness than in previous editions, which I see as a positive. White pear, jasmine, sage, mint, white pepper, peach and apricot fill out the layers. Light tropical accents appear with some aeration, adding a tropical flair that is very attractive. This is impeccably made." Vinous

"Perfumed, exotic, stony and honeyed, it is nonetheless a vertical and focused wine whose structure encompasses rich aromas and flavours of mango, peach, white flowers, orange peel, papaya and passion fruit." Decanter

"This is a dense and concentrated white wine, yet agile and easy to chew. Very beautiful flavours. Full-bodied, with a tension and frame that gives this wine real precision and intensity. Taut on the finish. Already beautiful now, but it will age beautifully. The best white wine ever from here?" James Suckling

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

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

From the 2020 vintage, Ornellaia Bianco is a single-varietal Sauvignon Bianco from three selected, small vineyards at Tenuta dell'Ornellaia. It ferments on the lees for 10 months, which gives it freshness, precision and a fine citrus flavour. Delicate golden yellow colour. A cornucopia of light-coloured fruit on the nose, with wonderful mint and citrus notes. Complex, lush and multi-layered on the palate. One of Italy's great white wines, in the style of the house. SUPERIORE.DE

"The intense straw-yellow Ornellaia Bianco 2020 unfolds a bouquet of yellow-fleshed fruit, accompanied by aromas of white flowers and vanilla. A harmonious and complex nuance that delights with every sip. On the palate, the wine reveals a pronounced freshness, but at the same time an elegant creaminess that gives the wine an enveloping, pleasant and long-lasting mouthfeel." Olga Fusari, Oenologist

"A full-bodied white wine reminiscent of a Bordeaux Blanc, with flavours of melon, peach, lemongrass, flowers, spices and green tea. Rich but balanced by lively acidity, with a hint of grapefruit peel bitterness. Excellent balance and length, with subtle use of oak." Wine Spectator

"This wine, which used to contain Viognier, is now 100% Sauvignon Blanc. The 2020 Ornellaia Bianco is quite tropical and generous in personality with immediate flavours of papaya, Golden Delicious apple and crushed stone. The wine is beautifully structured and long-lasting." Wine Advocate

"The nose indulgently blends fruit and herbs, like pineapple sorbet drizzled with basil syrup, with umami undertones of Pecorino cheese and toasted almonds keeping things in elegant balance. On the rich palate, pineapple continues and is joined by lemon curd, but the saltiness of the cheese perseveres to cut through the luxuriousness." Wine Enthusiast

"The Ornellaia Bianco 2020 is a bright, fine, dry white wine. Lime, white flowers, mint and white pepper are all beautifully described in this crisp white. I would give it at least a year or two in the bottle, as the acids are quite aggressive today, or a few hours in a decanter, which will help soften the youthful edges." Vinous

"White flowers, jasmine, peach, apricot, clementine and citrus nuances with a minerality of wet stones. Exciting and ample at the same time, a well-controlled weight of almost oily peach and bitter nectarine fruit with a citrus pineapple and lemon kick and underlying notes of honeysuckle give the florality. Clean with balanced acidity that gives a smooth mouthfeel and adds to the complexity of the whole. Dynamic with a hint of sweetness and tension - lively and appealing." Decanter

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here comes the new top Gran Selezione from San Felice: intense ruby red in colour, with broad and persistent aromas on the nose. Notes of violets and blackcurrants mingle with a sweet spiciness of tobacco and liquorice. Full-bodied, supple, well-structured wine, characterised by ripe and juicy tannins that harmonise with the acidic component. SUPERIORE.DE

"A concentrated red wine with intense flavours of cherry, raspberry, pomegranate, iron and wild herbs, which is also fluid, has light notes of new oak and ends with a salty finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2021 Gran Selezione La Pieve is a new wine in this range, replacing the Il Grigio Gran Selezione. It shows good energy and vigour, but is also still together in the bottle. Pomegranate, blood orange, spices and rose petals open up with a little persuasion. Clean mineral undertones prolong the finish. All it needs is time to develop better. It has a lot of potential." Vinous

"The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione La Pieve is a concentrated expression of Sangiovese with more pronounced oak tones of spice and sweet smoke. This lovely Tuscan red wine offers greater fruit richness and richness compared to the estate's Chianti Classico Borgo. This added intensity gives this wine the scope to be paired with grilled meats. The wine finishes with a sweetness that comes from both the oak and the ripeness of the fruit. This vintage offers remarkable balance and elegance." Wine Advocate

"This is a very attractive, quite elegant Chianti, polished and even on the palate. It offers notes of cherries, raspberries, orange peel, cured meat and toasted almonds. Medium to full-bodied with very fine, juicy and polished tannins." James Suckling

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

"Bright ruby colour with purple nuances. Dark and spicy nose of pipe tobacco, ebony, dark plum, also slightly balsamic. Dense and soft on the palate with dark chocolate, plums and rosemary, powerful and even, long." Falstaff

"Although lush and concentrated, this red wine is also light on its feet. Flavours of plum, blackberry, boysenberry and fruitcake abound, accented by notes of iron and spice, with a hint of wild herbs. Firm tannins line the finish, which nevertheless displays a fine harmony and a long-lasting aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"The organic wine Il Borro 2020 is a powerful Bordeaux blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. The wine shows a lot of oak, which is noticeable as roasted spices, coconut or buttered almonds. There is a distant note of dried dill, which disappears in the context of the big, ripe black fruit at the core. You get a lot of richness and fruit weight from a hot vintage." Wine Advocate

"Initially intensely spicy, with topsoil, graphite, leather, then fresh and floral with crushed sage and lavender, before wild cherry and wild strawberry emerge. On the palate, the black cherry notes are generous and bright, but with deep, brooding earth tones for contrast. The tannins are refined but tensile like good armour, and a warm but invigorating salinity runs through a long finish." Wine Enthusiast

"This is a round and quite juicy young wine with notes of blackberries, chocolate and grilled meat. Full and complex with very fine tannins that are well integrated and a bright finish. Lively on the finish." James Suckling

The Paesaggio Inatteso selection comes from Camigliano's 3.5 hectare vineyard "La Magia", which has mineral and calcareous soils. Bright ruby red. Cherry, raspberry, spice and tobacco aromas on the nose, taut, precise and full of personality on the palate. The tannins are soft and well integrated, making it an opulent, powerful and long-lasting pleasure even when young. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red. In the nose a slight hint of strawberry, then of ripe cherries and wild berries, shows nuances of pomegranate and dried rose petal. Juicy and clear on the palate, stretches out in many layers, beautiful red fruit, with persistence." Falstaff

"Plum and black cherry aromas and flavors highlight this dense, muscular red, accented by wild herb, iron and sanguine notes. Staying vibrant and long, this is balanced, with the quality of tannins in line with the southwestern sector of Montalcino." Wine Spectator

"The Camigliano 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Paesaggio Inatteso is a tiny production of just 2,600 bottles, all drawn from a two-hectare site with sandy limestone, located apart from the estate's core vineyard block, which the Ghezzi family holds in special regard. Indeed, the character of this wine is quite different from the classic 2016 Brunello. I don't get those heavier aromas of asphalt or charred earth here. This wine is much softer in approach with delicate and pure fruit. Cherry, plum and dried raspberry cede to light spice and tobacco. Paesaggio Inatteso means "unexpected landscape" in Italian, and this wine does stand apart from the others in the Camigliano portfolio." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of forest floor, eucalyptus, violet and coffee bean take shape in the glass. Full bodied and savory, the firm palate doles out mouthfuls of ripe black cherry, mature plum, licorice and baking spice alongside enveloping, fine-grained tannins, a great showing." Wine Enthusiast

"A rich, decadent red with black-cherry and flower aromas, as well as citrus and crushed stone. Some wet bark, too. It's full-bodied, yet reserved and toned with nicely crafted tannins that melt into the wine. Vivid acidity. A poised, polished red." James Suckling

In the past, the northern slope of Montalcino was not planted with vines, but was cultivated with cereals, olives and cherries. In this area influenced by the Apennines, the seasons are more pronounced, continental and the north wind significantly lowers the temperature in winter. It is therefore the coldest Brunello region at this time of year, but also the wettest. This northern slope is a gentle hill: a characteristic that is more reminiscent of the Crete Senesi area, right next door, than the two stiffer, steeper and warmer southern slopes of Montalcino.

Due to the climate and the origin of the soil, the grapes in this area of Montalcino are harvested last every year. Vigna del Lago is the vineyard that welcomes all visitors travelling from the north of Montalcino. It takes its name from the lake that surrounds it and which plays a fundamental role in the microclimate of the area; the soil is a constant alternation between clay and strips of very fine Galestro.

Brunello Vigna del Lago is a historic cru from the Val di Suga winery, it is an old-school Brunello, from the times before the arrival of barriques and technology. An authentic product that is enjoying increasing demand. Unlike the Poggio al Granchio, which is aged in new Liters French barriques, this wine matures in large 30- and 50-hectolitre Slavonian oak barrels.

It is a wine with a low alcohol content, light orange-ruby colour, with very fine and almost imperceptible tannins, with a floral nose of citrus notes, myrtle and fresh cherries. It is a Brunello of great richness and balance and also has a very pleasant lightness, well-contoured acidity and a salty, mineral finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Cosy bouquet of flowers, herbs and black forest fruits; the attack is balanced, harmonious, with juice and suppleness right into the complex finish. convinces with its polish." Vinum

"A fragrant Brunello that convinces with small red and dark fruits and increasingly reveals floral notes with air. Amarena cherry, leather. On the palate, a fine melting style, polished, juicy, elegant, red berry spice and plum. Beautiful drinking flow that is already fun. It still has room for improvement." Weinwisser

"Almost a little developed, barrel-woody and tobacco-like aroma of predominantly black berries, some tar, ash, iodine and forest floor. Clear, straightforward, ripe, almost cool, predominantly red fruit, quite present, fine tannins, a certain acid bite, persistent on the palate, herbal and salty nuances, moderate barrel tones, again a little forest messenger, resinous traces, good depth, restrained power, elegant style, multi-layered, gains transparency and freshness with air, very good to long, firm, tart-juicy finish with fine spice." Wein-Plus

"Bright ruby red colour, radiant. Appealing, open nose of leather, rosehips, blood oranges, with fine precious wood and dark berry notes on the finish. Grippy, firm tannins on the palate, with plenty of juice and finesse" Falstaff

"Brilliant medium ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Balsamic and with just a hint of sour cherry and a touch of spice, and with brooding concentration. A sense of richness on the palate with plenty of cherry fruit framed by delicious, chewy tannins. Lots of depth. Ripe now, but with the potential to age further." Jancis Robinson

"The Vigna del Lago surrounds the Val di Suga winery in the north-west of Montalcino. The gently sloping vineyard lies on clay soil at 280 metres above sea level. The wine is aged exclusively in large Slavonian oak barrels with a capacity of 30 to 40 hectolitres in order to preserve the wonderful purity of the sweet fruit. The 2018 is subtly perfumed and exudes delicate aromas of white flowers and oranges that emphasise the scent of red berries. Light and lively, it is initially more reminiscent of a Rosso di Montalcino, but a powdery texture and its persistent mineral core add complexity." Decanter

"Smooth and juicy, with flavours of cherry, plum, sage and leather. Light and lively, with fine tannins on the finish. Shows excellent balance and length." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna del Lago is perfumed, with crushed blackberries and plums accompanied by minty herbs and a hint of smoke. It is silky-smooth yet racy in style, with masses of tart wild berries accompanied by vibrant acidity. Violet and lavender tones resonate, while the Vigna del Lago finishes structured and slightly chewy with silty tannins and a hint of bitter cocoa that lingers." Vinous

"The nose blends the adventurous aromas of leather, stone and coffee with lighter notes of vanilla, cherries and bitter orange peel. On the palate, a current of blood orange bolsters the cherry element, while the vanilla sweetness pushes back against a swelling bitter undertone. Taut tannins march into a warm finish." Wine Enthusiast