Wine

The classic Habemus with its white label is probably the most famous wine of the exceptional Roman winemaker Emanuele Pangrazi. This may not only be due to its extreme quality, but also to the relatively large production of 9,000 bottles per vintage for the boutique winery, which should ensure a certain distribution at least in international connoisseur circles. Habemus is one of the 100 best wines in Italy every year and, with its style inspired by the great wines of the Rhone, at least casts a small but very bright light on the wine region of Lazio, which is otherwise not particularly conspicuous in terms of exceptional wines.

Intense, almost impenetrable ruby red. In the expansive bouquet aromas of black cherries, blackberries, spices, smoke, tobacco, lavender and crushed stones. The palate is full-bodied and complex with remarkable concentration and depth. Habemus is beautifully balanced with a velvety texture and a wonderful sense of freshness that lasts until the long, expansive finish full of dark fruits and lavender notes. SUPERIORE.DE

Deep, full red with a fine sheen. The La Morra edition from Vietti's famous Barolo family convinces with an impressive aroma of red berries, cherries, wild herbs, mint, minerals and rose petals, rounded off with a hint of blood orange. The palate is opulent, full, with fine sweetness and structure, and the multi-layered, long final is accompanied by downright aristocratic tannin. A typical Vietti cru with a lot of class. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby with a fine garnet shimmer. Exciting and complex in the nose, shows notes of cardamom, some leather, then lots of plum and raspberry. Taut and gripping tannin on the palate dominates the course, fine raspberry fruit, unfortunately a bit brittle on the final." Falstaff

"The 2017 Barolo Brunate is a powerful, brooding wine. Huge dark fruit, leather, spice, menthol and dried herbs all build in a potent Barolo that is enshrouded by tannins. The 2017 is going to need quite a bit of time in the cellar. Today, it is very much a brooding powerhouse. Dark wild cherry, licorice, tar, menthol and spice take shape in the glass, but the 2017 is clearly an infant, and an unruly one at that." Vinous

"A release of 4,981 bottles, the Vietti 2017 Barolo Brunate is beautifully rich and fleshed out, with balanced fruit weight and inner structure. The bouquet reveals tart cherry and cassis, but the Brunate also shows a more delicate side, with crushed flowers, dried violet and polished stone. The power of this cru creeps up on the palate, where you feel the tightness of its fiber and tannins. Following that delicate aromatic preface, this Barolo ultimately delivers a strong, cellar-worthy performance." Wine Advocate

"A ripe, fleshy style, offering plum, cherry, leather, menthol and iron aromas and flavors. Hints of rose and strawberry peek through as this builds to the long finish. There are formidable tannins too, yet they remain civilized and should allow this to develop nicely over time." Wine Spectator

"Beautiful, sweet fruit and perfumes on the nose with fresh flowers, such as roses. Full-bodied with fine, dusty tannins and a long, persistent finish. Very caressing. Builds on the palate at the end." James Suckling

Barolo Ravera comes from a single vineyard with vines that are almost 50 years old. In the glass, it impresses with a strong, aromatic opening flavour. Bright, precise and finely chiselled, the Ravera captures everything good that the vintage has to offer. Cherry, sweet mint, candy and expressive floral notes are given an extra kick of inner sweetness by Ravera's natural energy. There is so much to look forward to as the wine develops over the next few years! SUPERIORE.DE

"Beguiling bouquet of dark forest fruits and cherries, herbal notes; precise attack, the tannins extremely fine and silky, the acidity and mineral components provide the balance. Outstanding style!" Vinum

"Dark, sparkling ruby with garnet-coloured tendencies. Elegant, fruity-floral bouquet of roses and ripe wild berries, backed by fine wood spice and meadow herbs. Fine fruit melt on the palate, with a compact fruit core and firm tannins, very exciting and incredibly long." Falstaff

"Brilliant, medium ruby red colour. Raspberry and salty, mineral notes and hints of eucalyptus with aeration. Compact and a little closed, but with sensual acidity leading the cool, fresh fruit. Long, deep, chewy tannins that need a few more years to settle. Great depth of fruit on the finish." Jancis Robinson

"A precise style, more reductive than oxidative, with a rich fruitiness reminiscent of raspberry jam, floral notes, black pepper and liquorice. Fresh, with velvety, slightly chewy tannins in the mid-palate that lead into a chocolaty finish." Decanter

"Gravel stones, raspberries, liquorice and allspice on the nose. It's lively, dense and minerally with a medium to full body and firm, tight and steely tannins. Leave it to mature." James Suckling

"The Elvio Cogno 2020 Barolo Ravera is a lush and fleshy expression with dark fruit, dried cherry, plum, sweet orris root, earth, toast and dark spice. The wine is quite firm, and there is a lovely sense of richness that coats the palate." Wine Advocate

"This aromatic red wine exudes spicy and savoury notes of eucalyptus, juniper, rosehip, bergamot and white pepper. The flavours of cherry, iron and tobacco follow in the long finish." Wine Spectator

"A Barolo with temperament and character. Fresh aromas, nectarine, redcurrant, then laurel, rounded off with nuances of nutmeg. Mouthfeel with citrus sensations, clementine, savoury, taut and crisp, with hints of yellow fruit." Luca Gardini

The already very well-balanced and classic 2018 vintage can gain again with Fuligni, because no Riserva was produced. Ruby red with orange reflections. On the nose, after some aeration, ripe morello cherries, violets, roses and lots of Mediterranean scrub. Powerful on the palate, the silky tannins give it elegance and the necessary balance, its complexity comes to the fore with every sip. This very authentic and strongly focused Brunello can be counted among the best of the vintage, its wonderfully balanced proportions and its juiciness will give it further impetus in the coming years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Clear, quite firm, a touch floral aroma of ripe red and also black berries with nutty aromas, a little tobacco, cigar ash, dried herbs and dried meat. Firmly woven, tart and juicy, quite noble fruit, present, fine, youthful tannin, some acid bite, peppery and ethereal herbal nuances on the palate, persistent, good depth, salt in the background, a little cocoa and coffee, complex, still undeveloped but already impressive, has tension and finesse, very good, tight finish with coffee notes and ethereal, also slightly resinous spice." Wein-Plus

"Sparkling, medium dense ruby with a broad garnet rim. Very fragrant and inviting nose, shows lots of fresh fruit, of fresh plum and cherry, fine herbal spice in the background. Compact and present in attack and course, shows itself very balanced and clear, very well integrated tannin, spreads out in long waves, nice juiciness in the drink." Falstaff

"Medium to deep ruby red with orange reflections. There is a kinship with the Rosso 2020 in the oak notes, but here it is a bit more complex and less exotic. Iron, cherry, raspberry with complex oak notes in the background. Cardamom and cumin. A good mouthful of juicy red fruits with fine but persistent tannins. Refreshing, transparent and elegant. Quite amazing balance and lovely bite." Jancis Robinson

"It takes quite a while for the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino to open in the glass. A cloud of white smoke gives way to a sweet-smelling blend of dried roses, sugared cherries and a hint of exotic spices. This is a round and supple 2018 that conveys elegance through its velvety texture, polished ripe red fruits and cascading florals of violets. The 2018 is opulent but also has the acidity to keep it balanced, as it finishes long with classically refined tannins but leaves the palate perfectly poised for another sip. Honestly, it's hard to put this glass down. No Riserva will be produced in 2018, so all the juice has been used to support this open and seductive Brunello." Vinous

"A fine Brunello with aromas and flavours of black cherries, hazelnuts and chocolate. Very perfumed. Medium body with a nice texture and delicious finish. Nice, fine tannins. Not the best structured red wine, but it will improve with age and is a wonderful treat right now." James Suckling

"The Fuligni 2018 Brunello di Montalcino stands out for its supple integration of aromas and the carefully balanced intensity achieved here, which shows verve but also remains very fine and nuanced. The bouquet is multi-layered and reminiscent of wild fruits, cassis, rock gravel, candied oranges and fresh herbs or rosemary. A floral note also emerges, reminiscent of rose or orris root. The tannins are very well integrated and silky. You hardly feel them, and yet the wine has a firm structure throughout." Wine Advocate

"An elegant, juicy red wine with pure cherry and rosehip flavours. Nice balance of fruit, acidity, tannins and texture, with accents of earth, tobacco and wild herbs adding detail. The long finish suggests great potential." Wine Spectator

"Under the direction of Maria Flora Fuligni since 1971, along with her long-time right-hand woman Dr Daniela Perino - now CEO of the winery - Fuligni is one of the denomination's most consistent performers. The 2018 does not disappoint: it embodies the elegance of the vintage. The nose is a captivating synthesis of flowers and earth, exuding pressed violets, lavender and roses with accents of truffle and tobacco. In the mouth, it unfolds with flavour rather than weight or power. Redcurrants and oranges are enhanced by piercing acidity, and the shapely, gorgeously textured tannins are chalky and appropriately cushioned, adding layers and depth. This wine, which is not beyond its capacity, will drink beautifully over the next decade." Decanter

The Fuligni winery offers an "evergreen" at its best with this version of the traditional-style Brunello. Blackcurrant and juniper on the nose, with a hint of pepper leaf on the finish. Salty and taut tannins on the palate, fruity-balsamic return on the finish." Luca Gardini

The pure, autochthonous Nerello Mascalese from over 100-year-old (ungrafted) vines in Contrada Rampante on the northern slopes of Mount Etna at an altitude of 950 metres starts with a sparkling ruby-garnet colour and impressively adds a captivating raspberry aroma, followed by fine spicy notes (ginger, allspice, clove). Compact, dense, fully fruity, tannic on the palate, yet always extremely relaxed, elegant and supple. Traces of salt and flint on the finish. Just over 2,000 bottles of this masterpiece are produced every year. SUPERIORE.DE

"Complex bouquet of red berries and flowers, subtle spicy flavours; fresh in the mouth, the acidity and the crisp tannins are well balanced, complex final with notes of fresh rosehip tea and herbs in the final. Combines elegance and length." Vinum

"Medium ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Perfumed, concentrated, deep nose that is still a little brooding. Beautiful, supple cherry and raspberry fruit with fine tannins and savoury notes that cling to the palate. Bright acidity that combines with the concentrated ripe fruit on the finish without losing any of its power." Jancis Robinson

"The Etna Rosso Barbagalli 2018 opens with a spicy bouquet that combines dusty flowers and cloves with dried orange peel, incense and redcurrants. On the palate, it is surprisingly energetic and lively, yet complex. The zesty acidity enlivens the tart wild berries and savoury spices. A saturation of salty minerals accumulates towards the end. The 2018 finishes long yet inward, like a black hole of liquorice, violets and plums, framed by fine tannins that linger on the palate. The Barbagalli is a complete success for the vintage that fans of Pietradolce should not miss. This is the Etna Rosso of a Barolo lover." Vinous

"Michele Faro's top red wine is the Pietradolce 2018 Etna Rosso Barbagalli, whose fruit comes from a breathtaking amphitheatre of tangled old vines, each with its own shape and form. This vineyard is a sight to behold and I recommend a visit to this special place. In summer, the ashy volcanic soil feels like fine powder. Black lava stone walls border this small cru. This vintage is tart and fresh, with lots of sour cherry and a hint of wild herbs reminiscent of the wild fennel that grows in spring. Caper blossom, candied orange and violets can also be detected. Only 2,500 bottles were produced from this vineyard." Wine Advocate

"Seductively fragrant, this beautiful red wine offers tantalising aromas of blue flowers, crushed mint, wild berries and wet stone. The elegant, vibrant palate captivates with finesse and racy tension, with ripe Marasca cherries, raspberry compote, star anise and tangy flint notes accompanied by supple, polished tannins. The lively acidity provides balance and, together with the mineral notes, gives the wine plenty of energy." Wine Enthusiast

"Lots of aromas of pumice, smoke, dried meat and dried cherries, which fade into a full body with lively acidity and chewy tannins. Dense, needs another two or three years to open up. Made from old vines: 80 to 100 years old." James Suckling

"Its incredible perfume of wild red fruits, potpourri and violets, earth, black pepper and a dusty library character from the wood leads to a charming wine full of fleshy and juicy pomegranate and orange peel, followed by a certain complexity of cigar tobacco. Well-structured and yet so generous, despite the difficult vintage with high humidity and rain at harvest time. 2,000 bottles produced. A top recommendation." Decanter

Barolo Lazzarito impresses every year with its precision and class - two qualities not often found in the Nebbiolo of the Serralunga area. Iron, smoke and white pepper flow into the nose, in the glass these impressions are prolonged by a hint of pomegranate, red cherry jam, wild flowers and blood orange. Vietti's Lazzarito always stands for power and finesse and has been in no way inferior to its "colleagues" from Ravera and Rocche for quite some time. SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful, bright ruby garnet. Opens in the nose with distinct earthy notes of leather, some tar and truffle, behind it fine blackberry, discreet hazelnut note. Gripping, very intense tannin, a lot of pressure on the palate, but also a very high proportion of harsh, drying components, put it away and forget it for the next ten years." Falstaff

"A release of 8,760 bottles, the Vietti 2017 Barolo Lazzarito draws its fruit from Serralunga d'Alba and reveals a luminous garnet color. Compared to some of the others in this portfolio, the wine takes a little longer to open and express itself. It does, however, unfold to dark cherry, redcurrant, grilled herb, iron ore and candied orange peel. You need to give your glass a few extra vigorous swirls. Those rusty mineral notes build in intensity and drive the wine's medium-long finish." Wine Advocate

"A taut, structured Barolo, offering aromas and flavors of plum and cherry fruit shaded by accents of tobacco, iron, green tea and leafy underbrush. This is firm and gains power on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"Vietti owns two hectares in Lazzarito, a stunning amphitheatre facing southwest on clay-limestone soil. Planted to about 4,500 plants per hectare, the vines here have an average age of 38 years. Sweet, filigreed notes of cinnamon, strawberry candy and violet unfold in the glass. The attack is polished, with ripe, crunchy tannins. The austerity of Serralunga here becomes density and volume, kept lively by lifted acidity and finishing with liquorice root and cinnamon. Perfect balance and great elegance. This will develop more complexity with ageing." Decanter

"Vietti's 2017 Barolo Lazzarito is absolutely gorgeous. Whatever the challenges of the growing season, they appear to have been no problem here. More than anything else, the Lazzarito impresses with its magnificent depth and stature. Super-ripe red fruit, white pepper, mint, tobacco, cured meat, spice and rose petal open gradually with time in the glass. I would not be in a rush to open bottles anytime soon. The Lazzarito has been one of the most improved wines at Vietti for a number of years. The 2017 is so captivating." Vinous

"This is very chewy and powerful with lots of velvety tannins that are firm and intense. It’s full and flavorful with strawberries and tar. Bark undertones. Flavorful finish. Needs time to soften." James Suckling

Vietti's Ravera is one of the very big stars of Piedmont in its precision and structure. Rose petals, chalk, pepper and a hint of pomegranate make this Barolo one of the most sought-after in the appellation every year. With a little ageing, the strong tannins give way to an elegant impression that does not deviate one millimetre from the coveted style of this great vineyard. A monument of Barolo, which only a few other winemakers in Piedmont besides Vietti and also Giacosa bottle with such consistency! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, lightening ruby with a light rim. The nose presents itself with notes of raspberries and blackberries, then some cardamom, dark rose petal. Dense and full-bodied in the attack and course, shows lots of grippy tannin that builds up for a long time, entwined with fine sweet melting, long finish." Falstaff

"With fruit from Novello, the Vietti 2017 Barolo Ravera is immediately expressive and articulate. The message it communicates is one of elegance and finesse, and the mouthfeel is especially important to this bottle. A silky, almost glossy sheen sets up aromas of cassis, blueberry, wild cherry and crushed stone. These various elements literally glide or skate together in seamless harmony. This was a release of 7,560 bottles." Wine Advocate

"Broad and saturated with cherry, black currant and plum flavors, this red is expansive and yet well defined. The ripe fruit is offset by nervous tannins, leaving a resonant, energetic feel on the lengthy finish. Eucalyptus, iron and tobacco notes add detail." Wine Spectator

"The 2017 Barolo Ravera is a powerhouse. My impression is that the 2017 is going to develop into something truly special. It has all the energy that makes this site so distinctive, but with an extra kick of fruit density and a whole range of exotic aromatics that make for a truly drop dead gorgeous wine. Bright red/purplish fruit, rose petal, chalk and white pepper build into a finish laced with searing intensity. This is such and impressive wine." Vinous

"Dried strawberry and citrus rind, as well as subtle undertones of smoke and dried flowers. Full-bodied, yet so tight and composed with freshness and lightness, yet power, too. Long finish. This really needs time to open. Classic style." James Suckling

Deep dark, almost impenetrable red colour. A whole range of ripe wild berries on the nose, delicately accompanied by nuances of tobacco, leather, cedar and lavender. The palate is also full of fruit, powerful, yet silky and elegant. Traces of dark chocolate in the endlessly long final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red colour. Noble, fragrant nose of juicy wild berries and fine precious wood, plus bread clover, milk chocolate, fine citrus fruit and light spice on the finish. On the palate, it has a noble mellowness and clear, radiant fruit, with compact, juicy tannins and great juiciness, lively, full of energy, still young, will mature magnificently." Falstaff

"The flavours of red fruits with nutmeg and cinnamon come through clearly, as well as notes of light cedar wood. It is full-bodied with a tight and concentrated palate and very, very polished tannins. They feel slightly powdery, with good tension before the long and lively finish. Better after 2027." James Suckling

"The Tua Rita 2021 Syrah Per Sempre is a beautiful wine that displays enormous richness and softness, without heaviness. There are soft fruit tones cushioned by cinnamon and sweet spice. The wine is opulent, but it also offers exciting tension at the same time." Wine Advocate

The Carricante grapes for this extremely rare Etna Bianco come from phylloxera-resistant (pre-phylloxera) vines from a single vineyard on the eastern slope of Etna at an altitude of 800 metres. Only a single oak barrel is filled each year, resulting in less than 2,000 bottles per vintage.

Rich golden yellow with amber-coloured accents. Complex and well-structured aroma of herbs, yellow fruit and flint. Indescribable depth on the palate with a salty note, fresh fruit and mineral persistence. The final is firm and precise, the tension is perfectly balanced and the long-lasting impression is unique! SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep straw yellow with copper-coloured reflections. Serious, concentrated but restrained bouquet with hints of exotic spices, dried apricots and cedar wood as well as a faint hint of brioche. Initially straightforward and dense, it then opens up on the palate. Viscous lemon and grapefruit with a very subtle tannin structure. The finish is characterised by citrus fruits that provide a thrill. Complex, long and needs further bottle ageing." Jancis Robinson

"Ripe, slightly honeyed dried citrus, grilled pineapple and spice on the nose, following though to a medium palate with a tight bead of dry spice and fruit. Compact, slightly challenging finish for now." James Suckling

"Made from grapes from 100 to 120 year old vines, this deep golden wine has enticing aromas of lychee, Spanish broom and wet stone. Round and enveloping, the elegant palate also shows depth and concentrated flavours of creamy pear, ripe yellow peach and tangy salinity alongside bright acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"Here is a wine that will keep Carricante lovers on their toes. The Pietradolce 2018 Sant'Andrea opens with a saturated golden colour and offers completely unexpected aromas of candied almonds, apricots, honey, saffron, pastry cream and so on. The complexity of the wine reveals additional layers of roasted herbs and crushed stone. Prolonged maceration on the skins is the particular style of vinification that gives Sant'Andrea its unique identity. There is a hint of dusty tannin on the finish. This wine is bottled in an edition of 1,800 bottles." Wine Advocate

"The frosted brass sheen of this profound white wine, along with tantalising aromas of sun-warmed peach skin, saffron and oyster shells, draw you into the glass where a rich palette of flavours awaits. Notes of dried apricots, white cherries, orange pits, almond shells, cloves and honeycomb are underpinned by a fine, chalky texture and pronounced acidity with a hint of Mediterranean scrub." Wine Spectator

"It's very floral and fragrant, with a structured, waxy palate that has addictive notes of grapefruit, apricot skin, baked apple, exotic spices and even a grappa/grape skin component. It's really fresh, yet rich and complex and will be rewarding for cellaring." Decanter

Marilisa and Franco Allegrini dedicated this single-varietal Cabernet Franc from their own vineyards on Via Bolgherese to their eldest brother Walter, who passed away in 2003. The 2015 vintage marked the beginning of an even more radical focus on the terroir and the quality of the grapes. Since then, a third fewer bottles have been filled each year, resulting in a Bolgheri Superiore from the estate's own grapes from the Bolgheri core zone that is hard to beat in terms of elegance and character. Compact and elegant Cabernet Franc with a fine tobacco note, ripe blackcurrant flavours, some pepper and eucalyptus, plus slightly earthy tones. Dense fruit and polished tannins on the palate, clear, rich final. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Poggio al Tesoro 2019 Bolgheri Superiore Dedicato A Walter has oak-accented flavours of popcorn and caramel on toasted nuts, dried fruit, baked plums and baking chocolate. There's a lot going on in the mouthfeel and on the palate. These oak-accented tones are very pleasing given the richness and texture that this wine handles so well." Wine Advocate

"Lavender and toasty oak aromas lead off, with flavors of black currant, blackberry, iron and leafy bell pepper. This red is lithe and complex, driven by vibrant acidity, with fine harmony, varietal expression and length." Wine Spectator

"The Bolgheri Superiore Dedicato a Walter 2019 is great. Here, the extracted style works well to bring out the essence of the Cabernet Franc. Dark fruit, leather, smoke, chocolate, tobacco and cloves give the 2019 an impressive depth. Although it is very intense, the 2019 is by no means over the top. It offers great depth and intensity, with all elements very well balanced." Vinous

"The nose is a light lunch on a rocky beach, where the dusty stones contrast with the spiciness of bresaola and the richness of the sweet chilli jam. The jam spreads across the palate, but the meatiness isn't lost either, before a crackle of black pepper introduces a lingering finish." Wine Enthusiast

"Cabernet Franc in purezza, which impressively demonstrates how well the terroir is suited to this grape variety: Intriguing cherry-bitter chocolate bouquet, tinged with spicy notes; the attack is powerful, the fine-grained tannins and acidity in balance, elegant finish with plenty of fruit and noble character." Vinum

"Beautiful fruit and freshness with a brightness and energy that lifts the wine. It is medium to full-bodied with a bright and juicy palate. Blackcurrant and yellow pepper with some orange blossom. It is bright and fluid in an intriguing way. It's drinkable, but it will only get better with time." James Suckling

LUX VITIS 2016 is the second and small-batch vintage of an exceptional, great wine. It comes from Cabernet Sauvignon vines over 12 years old and contains a small amount of Sangiovese. Deep dark ruby red, the bouquet has gingerbread spice, ripe black cherry and some smoke. On the palate it convinces compact and precise and clearly shows origin and grape variety. LUX VITIS will reveal its true treasure only with the years of maturity - the precise and outstanding 2016 vintage gives it fullness, subtle sweetness and concentration and in addition a freshness that will carry it into a long life. SUPERIORE.DE

With a few hours in the air, Albesani begins to reveal the inner sweetness and fragrance so typical of wines from this Neive vineyard. Sweet dried cherries, rose petals, kirsch, cinnamon, orange peel and sweet tobacco open up with a little coaxing. Albesani clearly has a lot to offer for those who can wait for the initially prominent tannins to soften. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2018 Barbaresco Albesani is another great wine from Roagna. Crushed red berry fruit, mint, tobacco, orange peel, spice and crushed rocks open up beautifully with a little coaxing. Deep and powerful, but also wonderfully restrained, the Albesani has a lot to offer. It is also one of the few wines from this vintage that certainly needs time." Vinous

"Round and opulent, this red features cherry, raspberry, rose, menthol, tobacco and mineral flavors. Dense and firmly structured, with superb balance and terrific length. Combines power and finesse." Wine Spectator

An unimaginably fine bouquet of ripe fruit, flowers, butter and brioche, wrapped in an elegant woody note, the full fruity flavour and the long, creamy finish are magnificent. SUPERIORE.DE

Do you know the small vineyard Basarin near Neive? A bright ruby garnet awaits you and a wine from a particularly beautiful vintage: on the nose, a cornucopia of aromas of wild sour cherry, herbs, some liquorice and tobacco. Firm and very clearly structured on the palate, muscular and yet with an elegance that never loses control due to its power. Basarin is a highly energetic and precise Nebbiolo that reveals its complexity only with some patience and aeration. The neighbouring terroir Neive shows itself with distinguished elegance and marries harmoniously with the volume and weight typical of the site - and in a depth that only vines over 50 years old can produce. SUPERIORE.DE

"A dense red, solidly built and displaying mint, eucalyptus, vanilla and resin flavors, while berry and cherry fruit elements struggle to emerge. Despite its freshness and length, this is locked up tight." Wine Spectator

"The Barbaresco Basarin 2020 with fruit from the village of Neive is a generous and full-bodied wine with soft fruit tones and lots of powerful cherry. Sottimano Maggiore likes to work with ambient yeasts and submerged cap. This is a fruit-driven Nebbiolo from a warm vintage. It shows above average concentration, but not much, and feels quite soft and supple on the palate." Wine Advocate

"The Barbaresco Basarin 2020 is a wine of pure and perfect sensuality. For a young Barbaresco that has just been bottled, the Basarin has great balance. On the palate, a firework of dark red fruits, spices, rose petals, mint and blood orange unfolds, followed by a powerful kick of Nebbiolo acidity and tannin. The harvestmust be patient. This heady, explosive Barbaresco is shaping up to be a real gem." Vinous

"Aromas of dried cherries, cocoa, cinnamon and bark with hints of dried rose petals. Medium to full-bodied and structured with taut but fine tannins that linger. Shows tension and depth. Long lingering finish." James Suckling

The Sottimano winery has five vineyard sites, with the Pajoré site near Treiso having the poorest soils of all. These wines are therefore more elegant and ripe. Pajoré is a super-classic, explosive wine, with tremendous depth and character. Although it has a lot of breadth and texture, it remains light on its feet. Lavender, mint, liquorice and purple berry fruit are beguiling and wonderfully vibrant in the glass. Pajorè is a spicy, elegant and sweet Nebbiolo that is fine yet covers the mouth well - and we are always impressed by its lovely salty mouthfeel. SUPERIORE.DE

"A lithe yet firmly structured red marked by vanilla, resin, cherry, strawberry, floral and underbrush aromas and flavors. Shows fine balance in the end, with the fruit holding up against a cadre of serious tannins. Resonant finish." Wine Spectator

"The Sottimano 2020 Barbaresco Pajoré is a dense and elegant wine with a medium weight structure. The bouquet is very expressive with dried cherries, blackcurrants, iron ore and blue flowers. Sottimano manages to produce very straightforward and precise wines, and that is certainly the message of this wine from the Pajoré vineyard in the municipality of Treiso. It finishes on a dry, chalky note." Wine Advocate

"This wine shows subtle aromas of cherries and wild strawberries with dried sage, lavender, nutshells and cloves. Medium to full body with a firm backbone of compact tannins. A little chewy yet juicy with notes of citrus and walnuts on the finish." James Suckling

"The Barbaresco Pajorè 2020 is a textbook wine from this site. The Pajorè is a wine of depth and stature that impresses right from bottling. Dark cherry, plum, lavender, spice and menthol race across the palate as the 2020 proves its obvious pedigree. Time in the glass brings out a whole range of spicy, balsamic nuances that continue into the lingering finish. The 2020 is developing into a truly great wine." Vinous

"From a vineyard in Treiso, with 50-60 year old vines, a Barbaresco of great finesse. Arbutus on the nose, with notes of eucalyptus and white pepper, rounded off with hints of wild mint. On the palate, iodine-salty tannins, fruity and mentholated finish." Luca Gardini

The pure Pinot Nero Franciacorta Annamaria Clementi Rosé is bright pink in colour with delicate amber tones. It beguiles the senses with a subtle bouquet of dried strawberries and zesty citrus fruits, contrasted by the richness of raw almonds and sweet white smoke. It is silky and supple, with a slowly rising structure, yet still manages to surprise with notes of apple and savoury spices, which are then enlivened by a juicy acidity. There is a lingering inner sweetness that mingles with an aftertaste of concentrated red forest berries that lingers for over a minute. One of Italy's greatest sparkling wines! SUPERIORE.DE

"Vivid copper color. Restrained on the nose with strawberries and leaves and a well-integrated toastiness. Medium-bodied and very fresh. The palate is precise and tightly knit with superfine bubbles, crisp acidity and an amazing redcurrant finish." James Suckling

The Vigna del Sorbo vineyard is located directly in front of the winery. The south-west facing vineyard with Galestro soils covers 8 hectares at an altitude of 450 metres. The Riserva was first produced in 1985 and has been labelled Gran Selezione since the 2010 vintage.

Dark ruby red with light red highlights. Deep and initially unfathomable on the nose. But any spirit of discovery will be enchanted when it opens slowly and very balanced with red cherries, redcurrants, earth, sage and liquorice, revealing more facets with each passing minute. Finally, the mouthfeel shows a similar degree of extreme flavour balance with very fine but still young tannins. This medium-bodied structure, coupled with the wine's natural acidity, is an important guarantee of its great longevity. Our clear conclusion: there is not only a lot to discover here, but also to admire. Chapeau! SUPERIORE.DE

"Single-vineyard wine from 55-year-old vines in the Conca d'Oro of Panzano: seductive notes of raspberries, spiced up with notes of dried roses and pepper; balanced texture, the acidity fresh, the tannins velvety and long-lasting. Pleasing with its fullness and elegance." Vinum

"Bright ruby red colour, dark. A savoury nose of ripe cherries, wild berries, graphite, dark spices and peppercorns, with a wet earth aftertaste. Juicy on the palate, with tightly woven tannins and superbly developed cherry fruit, profound and earthy, beautiful length, the months of additional ageing have done the wine a lot of good." Falstaff

"Aromas of stems, dried meat, berries and cherries with some dusty earth. The palate is firm and fresh, bright and crisp. It shows a certain texture of cement and stone." James Suckling

"The 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is one of the most backward editions of this wine that I can remember tasting. Dark and almost sombre, the Vigna del Sorbo packs a tonne of intensity into its deceptively mid-weight frame. In many vintages, the Vigna del Sorbo is quite showy in its youth. This is not at all the case with the 2020, a wine that will need many more years to show its best side. With time, hints of lavender, dried herbs, plums and graphite emerge, but the 2020 is clearly a child. There is a sense of youthful austerity (in a positive sense) that I find very appealing. The Sorbo 2020 is a wine for those who can wait." Vinous

"This red is tightly wound, straightforward in profile and full of flavours of black cherries, blackberries, blueberries, fresh loam and minerals, supported by lively acidity and dense, soft tannins that combine beautifully with the tension and silky texture. Shows fantastic length." Wine Spectator

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo 2020 (with an edition of 25,000 bottles) is a generous expression of Sangiovese of unique intensity, showing tremendous precision and focus. This organic wine offers black fruits, grilled rosemary, pressed rose and crushed limestone. All of these flavours have a particular forward intensity that combines with the generous fruit richness for which this sunny vintage will be remembered." Wine Advocate

"A wine capable of expressing itself for years at the absolute top of the typology, Sangiovese with a small contribution of Cabernet Sauvignon, but above all the territory of Panzano. Intense nose, black currant, officinal scents, of citron thyme, then notes of clementine peel. At the sip is savory, with a fruity recall." Luca Gardini

Planeta's famous Chardonnay exudes a large and rich bouquet with aromas of apricot, apple, lemon, honey and lime. On the palate, the same intense flavours, delicate melting paired with fruity freshness and beautiful length. A Sicilian white wine at the highest level since its debut vintage in 1995, it definitely needs a few years to mature in the bottle. SUPERIORE.DE

The grapes for this fine Valpolicella come from limestone marl soils in the terraced vineyards of the Novare winery. Similar to the Amarone method, the grapes undergo a second fermentation on the sweetish skins of dried grapes in March after the harvest. Deep ruby red in colour, with warm spicy notes, cherry, black pepper and hints of chocolate on the palate. Animating in the glass with intense fruity flavours, wonderfully soft tannin structure and beautiful persistence. This multi-layered, luxurious wine has nothing to hide behind its big brother! SUPERIORE.DE

"Wild strawberry and cherry fruit is ripe and bright in this elegant red, with a tang of pomegranate seed and tangerine peel. Light on its feet and fresh, with light, chewy tannins showing on the lingering finish of aromatic mineral, spice and Mediterranean macchia notes." Wine Spectator

"If I were forced to choose a series of wines that could lead the anachronistic Ripasso category into a better future, this would be one of the few. A medium-bodied, lean expression with just enough fruit in the bones. Think strawberries, lilacs, Asian plums, cloves and a hint of liquorice. A noble, almost alpine bitterness lifts the finish. Brilliant." James Suckling

We are overjoyed that we were able to obtain some wooden boxes of this extremely rare and only in the very best vintages produced drop. It is not for nothing that he leads the exclusive selection of Matteo's "collectible wines".

Sparkling ruby grenade. Clearly defined, fine nose with pronounced notes of raspberry and plum, with thyme in the background. Very polished and delicate on the nose, the aroma is incredibly complex with notes of wild berries, cherries, spices and herbs. On the palate with a firm pressure, yet very juicy and in the finish with an elegance and potential that is second to none. Whoever does not let this already almost perfect wine mature in the cellar for another five or more years will miss a lot! SUPERIORE.DE

"This is the top-shelf wine from Matteo Ascheri and also the wine with the smallest production numbers, with just 2,800 bottles made. Fruit comes from two parcels in the Sorano cru of Serralunga d'Alba: the Vigna Coste and the Vigna Bricco. The 2016 Barolo Coste & Bricco is indeed profound and compelling, thanks to its very elegant and powerful DNA. This wine sneaks up on the senses with mounting intensity that starts off with red fruit and wild berries and eventually transitions to white licorice, ash, smoke and pretty mineral nuances. The wine is focused and bright with abundant Nebbiolo typicity. Fermentation is short at just two weeks, and the wine ages in 18-hectoliter new and used oak for 22 months. I see that the prices of Ascheri's wines seem to reflect availability; however, the quality is excellent, making this bottle ever more precious." Wine Advocate

Brunello di Montalcino by Poggio di Sotto is an explosive wine, full and dark. Black cherries, menthol, spices and freshly tanned leather are just some of the diverse aromas. The palate is dense, enveloping and fantastically flowing. Accentuated acidity, perfectly integrating the tannins, finishes on notes of ripe stone fruit, leather and mushrooms. An absolutely fascinating, sublime wine (for the advanced) at the highest level. SUPERIORE.DE

"With aeration, increasingly engaging berry and violet aromas; the attack trenchant, plenty of polish and richness with tightly woven tannins, combining fruit length, complexity and also plenty of tradition." Vinum

"The Burgundy among the Brunelli. Wonderfully ripe blueberry jam, heart cherries and raspberries, ethereal herbal spice with liquorice, sage and myrtle, behind it a fine red-blue florality as well as a touch of blood orange and noble wood. Quite crisp on the palate, finely meshed style, great tension of transparent precise fruit and balsamic freshness, compact and tightly woven with firm tannin corset and lots of finesse." Weinwisser

"Firm and quite deep, a little dried-vegetable to tobacco nose of small red and black berries with herbal aromas, pepper, meat juice and a little smoke. Ripe, juicy, partly preserved, nevertheless lively fruit with smoky, nutty, a little toasty and herbal notes, crumbly sandy tannin, dark ethereal spice in the background, persistent, medium power, a little iodine and cocoa, distinctly salty hints, very good finish with partly preserved small berry juice and ethereal spice again." Wein-Plus

"Shiny ruby-garnet. Intense and inviting nose, of ripe black cherries, plus raspberries and strawberries, some tobacco in the background. Fills the palate richly, lots of fresh, appealing fruit, plums, cherry and goji berry, plus fine-meshed tannin, juicy and long." Falstaff

"Brilliant ruby red. Spicy and with hints of raw meat, still quite embryonic and reductive. Needs a lot of aeration to show its lovely raspberry notes. Lush fruit on the palate with long, polished but chewy tannins. Perfumed, sweet raspberry fruit follows on the finish. You get all of this, but only if you open the bottle literally hours before." Jancis Robinson

"Attractive nose of salted plums, sour cherries, dried roses and rosemary stems. Firm yet supple with a medium to full body and layers of fresh fruit with delicious herbal notes." James Suckling

"A dense red with aromas of cherry, plum, loamy earth, thyme, sage, sanguine and tobacco. Austere, with lively acidity and dusty tannins holding court on the compact finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino has a slow attack with exotic aromas of sweet spices, cedar chips, ash stone, mint and a hint of sage. It is luxuriously soft in texture, silky and refined, with a depth of balsamic-tinged cherries accelerated by vibrant acidity and a hint of sour citrus that adds contrast. The finish is impressively structured for the vintage, still lively but classically dry, leaving nuances of tart berries balanced by a burst of inner sweetness that is very well underlined. This was a very difficult vintage, with massive rains in August that made working in the vineyard very difficult, but also very important. However, the team at Poggio have done a fantastic job of finding balance. Definitely give the 2018 a lot of time, because I followed it for three days and it got better and better." Vinous

"In southern Montalcino, near the town of Castelnuovo dell'Abate, Poggio di Sotto captures the lightness of the vintage with a plomb, and the long ageing in 30hl Slavonian oak barrels has not affected its vitality. With pretty and precise aromas of cherry and raspberry, it evokes summer, but fragrant wet leaves and woody rose hips speak of autumn. The palate is fine and fluid, moving with grace. The chalky tannins hold their own discreetly yet persistently. The underlying lush ripeness is downright seductive." Decanter

"The nose is metallic, earthy and stony, with cherry undertones providing levity. Cherries take a star turn on the palate, with strawberries and raspberries playing crucial supporting roles, while a tension between astringent orange and creamy mocha emerges on the lengthy finish. Robust tannins and fiery acidity prove ageworthiness." Wine Enthusiast

"Raw materials of great vitality for another milestone of this typology. Blueberry jam on the nose, notes of wild myrtle and sage on the finish. The mouthfeel is crisp and dense, with spicy iodine tannins and a fruity finish." Luca Gardini

"Poggio di Sotto has once again hit the bull's eye with an extremely elegant interpretation that shows the incredible depth and nuance Sangiovese can achieve, even in an uneven vintage like this. The organic Brunello di Montalcino 2018 has a dark ruby colour and a medium-heavy concentration. In fact, the wine is lighter and brighter than most, despite Brunello's mandatory five years of ageing before release. The tannins are silky and melt into the palate. As the wine progresses, it offers powerful notes of red cherry, cassis and blue flowers." Wine Advocate