Wine

At the end of the 19th century, Ludwig Barth, a university professor with a love of wine, built the estate of the same name in Mazon and planted the Pinot Noir grape there for the first time, with success, as it turned out. The year 2016 was very good for Pinot Noir and for the Roccolo vineyard at Ansitz Barthenau on the Mazon plateau. Particularly rich grapes from vines that are more than 70 years old and tend to grow on the traditional pergola were to be reserved for a new top wine. They were harvested separately, pressed separately and matured in small oak barrels and are only made into the single-vineyard wine "Roccolo" in the best vintages.

It convinces with its smooth, filigree acid structure, the backbone of every Burgundy. Martin Foradori's "Burgundy instinct" had pointed him in the right direction; working late into the evening had paid off. A top-class Pinot Noir now enriches the estate's Pinot Noir range - from the outstanding site of the Mazon plateau. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2017 Pinot Nero Vigna Roccolo takes its time opening in the glass, at first blowing off some youthful reduction, then delivering a gorgeous mix of dried strawberries and roses in an air of crushed stone. The textures are unreal, silky and soothing, yet deep, ushering in masses of ripe red berries and sweet spices. This leaves a saturation of primary concentration while tapering off with grippy tannins, yet still, it’s remarkably fresh. The warmth of the vintage has imparted this with a powerful boost of intensity, but I’m loving it. The 2017 succeeds through its lively acidity. " Vinous

Poggio Valente comes from a single vineyard of the same name at an altitude of around 300 metres. Opulent floral and small-fruited Sangiovese nose with optimally nuanced hints of tobacco, cedar and mint. Precise on the palate with plenty of pressure and power, then towards the end the furious resolution of all the well-dosed components in a fine, silky texture and an unforgettable, long final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Wonderfully clear, red-fruity bouquet with cherries, wild berries and wonderful floral (lavender, roses) and spicy notes. Still very delicate, but juicy and elegant as well as precisely woven with a lively style, lives from the red berry fruit, the fine tannin riff and the wonderfully ethereal freshness with wonderful liquorice notes on the final." Weinwisser

"Brilliant, medium ruby colour with reflections. Initially delicate and subtle on the nose, with a little oxygen the wine opens up with aromas of black cherries and cedar wood. Elegant fruity sweetness on the palate, with fine tannins and a beautiful tension to the final." Falstaff

"Pure Sangiovese from the coast, also animating in this vintage: notes of forest fruits, blackberries, pepper and violets in the multi-faceted bouquet; precise construction with perfectly integrated, well-built tannins and vivid acidity, combining polish and length." Vinum

"The 2021 is ripe and silky, showing an intensity of soft, creamy red fruits with a lovely mineral note. Pure, balanced and precise, it is not quite as vertical as some of its predecessors, but instead has an appealing roundness." Decanter

"Ripe flavours of plum, black cherry and blackberry accentuate this dense red wine, whose lively structure conveys an energetic feel. Notes of earth, iron, eucalyptus and spice add complexity on the finish, with an aftertaste of fruit, wild undergrowth and spice." Wine Spectator

"This pure Sangiovese wine is celebrating its 25th anniversary. I was told that it is made according to a Burgundian model. The Fattoria le Pupille 2021 Poggio Valente offers good fruit concentration, freshness and an open character. It has a lot of character of red fruits, iris, blue flowers and earth, and the tannins are present, albeit powdery." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 Poggio Valente is fabulous. I can’t remember tasting a Poggio Valente with this much finesse. Rose petal, spice and red cherry fruit open in an effusive bouquet that is immediately appealing. Silky, medium in body and gracious, with finesse to burn, the 2021 shows what is possible within the appellation. I love its total class." Vinous

"Aromas of cherries, chocolate and walnuts. Some undertones of lavender and rose petals. Medium-bodied, with superfine tannins and notes of chocolate and vanilla. Give it time to open up." James Suckling

The single-varietal Refosco "Cossut" is named after the vineyard of the same name. Like all of Miani's single-vineyard wines, it is only produced in very small quantities and impresses with its complexity, depth, elegance and magical fruit. Dark fruits, smoke and tar overwhelm the palate with soft, plush, velvety richness. It's amazing how weightless this full-bodied red wine really is. The red parade variety of Friuli leaves no room for further interpretation here. SUPERIORE.DE

The wine icon, rare every year and very highly rated, presents itself in a shiny, rich ruby. On the nose, crisp berry fruit, ripe dark cherries, sweet plums and delicate notes of cinnamon. In the mouth it is full-bodied and firm, very juicy, unfolds a finely woven tannin and glides in a wide arc into a powerful, long final. A great wine full of tension and elegance. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dense, sweet and with great seductiveness, it smells out of the glass with lots of chocolate and nutty aromas. Fine-grained and clearly structured on the palate, it has excellent breed with playful acidity, which in turn gives it depth and length. Impressively typical I Sodi, which has never lost its traditional character. Even though it was one of the more modern top wines from Tuscany in the 90s because of its ageing in barriques, today it has to be classified rather with the classics." Weinwisser

"Rich, sparkling ruby with a slightly pale rim. Opens clear and deep on the nose, with plums and blackberries, discreet smoky notes, some cardamom. Firm and sturdy on the palate, shows lots of tightly woven tannin, builds up firm pressure, lots of plum, long final." Falstaff

"This is marked by new oak initially, then the plum and cherry flavors shine through. Vibrant, with leather and earth elements joining in before the oak spice and tannins frame the finish. Fresh and complex, with a lot going on—just needs time." Wine Spectator

"Bright and vibrant, the trademark lively and vibrant acidity at the fore straight away giving life and lift to the caramelised cherries, pomegranates and strawberry fruit. The wood is a little apparent, giving the frame a spiced edge that sticks out a little and pulls the fruit forwardness back a bit. Clearly powerful, there is a richness and ripeness to the fruit with massy tannins. Nuanced and generous with precision and focus from beginning to the end." Decanter

"This celebrated Tuscan red is a blend of mostly Sangiovese with a smaller part of Malvasia Nera. The Castellare di Castellina 2018 I Sodi di S. Niccolò shows the elegance and grace of these native grapes with aromas of red and purple fruit, cherry, wild rose and gardening soil. However, there is also a strong oak element that adds spice and toast to the bouquet and textural weight to the wine's generous build." Wine Advocate

"A vibrant, balanced and fresh red with raspberries, pomegranates, cherry stones and spice box on the nose. Sleek, tight tannins. Focused, with a very fine structure and wound-up energy." James Suckling

"The 2018 I Sodi di San Niccolò is the most elegant Sodi I have ever tasted, and I have tasted them all. Sodi can be quite the bruiser in its youth, as the tannins are often imposing, but the 2018 is impressive because there is more than enough fruit to balance things out. Dark cherry, plum, lavender, spice and gravel build in a Sodi endowed with mind-blowing purity and exceptional finesse. Superb!" Vinous

This iconic wine, which is rare and very highly rated every year, presents itself in a brilliant, rich ruby colour. The bouquet is full of crisp berry fruit, ripe dark cherries, sweet plums and delicate notes of cinnamon. Full-bodied and firm on the palate, very juicy, develops a finely worked tannin and glides in a wide arc into a powerful, long final. A great wine full of vigour and elegance. SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep and dark aromas of Mediterranean herbs, restrained black cherries and austere, earthy complexity. Firm on the palate, with full body, velvety tannins, crisp acidity and a chalky finish. Long aftertaste with roasted graphite. A wine that is meant for the long haul, but will be ready to drink in a year or two." James Suckling

"Packed with ripe, juicy cherry, blackberry, pomegranate and floral aromas and flavors, this red is supple and beautifully integrated. Earth, iron and tobacco accents add detail as this winds down on the lazy, resonant aftertaste, showing terrific energy." Wine Spectator

"The 2020 I Sodi di San Niccolò is fabulous. It is a rare wine that offers power, finesse and translucent energy at once. All the elements are in perfect balance. I can’t remember a Sodi like this one, a wine that is so complete and alluring right out of the gate. Rose petal, lavender, spice, orange peel and sage open first. What impresses me most about the 2020 is the finesse of its tannin, something I have very rarely seen in Sodi at this early stage. Magical. This is remarkable in every way." Vinous

After a year's break (2020 was not produced), one of Italy's rarest Merlots is back at the start: the inviting aroma is almost reminiscent of a Burgundy, with notes of raspberries and, only with time, the typical black forest berries and a delicate peppery spiciness. A generous variety of flavours on the palate, power and depth combined with finesse and elegance. Not at all furry, but harmonious, beautifully rounded by ripe, silky tannins and very long. A real rarity - if only because only around 5,000 bottles were filled and it is therefore hardly ever tasted. SUPERIORE.DE

"One of Italy's most cherished Merlots, the organic San Giusto a Rentennano 2021 La Ricolma is stitched carefully together with a very bright fruit note that recalls sweet cherry and crème de cassis. Those softly ripened fruit tones are followed by sweet spice and cured tobacco. The wine hits the palate with power, in part fueled by a 15% alcohol content, but it also fully envelops the senses with soft tannins and rich concentration." Wine Advocate

"The La Ricolma 2021 is a massive, brooding wine. Huge swathes of tannin wrap themselves around a core of dark fruit, leather and liquorice." Vinous

Vinified only in the best vintages and in small batches, Brunello di Montalcino PS Riserva comes from vines planted in the 1970s in Pelagrilli, one of the districts on the north side of Montalcino. The 2016 is deep yet translucent and offers wonderful intensity. The bouquet is fluid and graceful with a very precise and concentrated presentation. Dark cherry, plum, rose petal, spice, liquorice and new French oak are just some of the characteristics that excite us. The finish is silky and very long. Attractive tones of spicy smoked meat appear at the very end. A full and very focused Sangiovese from the top year 2016. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby garnet. Very clear and precise nose, shows beautiful matured fruit notes, plays between nuances of raspberry, cherry and strawberry, underpinned by spicy components. Shows compact and polished on the palate, lots of fine-meshed tannin in many layers, fine fruit, firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"Medium to deep ruby red. Deep, sweet cherry aroma with more than a hint of cardamom. Lots of maraschino cherry on the palate with supple acidity building to a very long, aromatic final with a perfect dose of chewy tannins. A baroque, dramatic wine." Jancis Robinson

"Broad, stimulating flavours of blackcurrants and blackberries, with elements of iron, tobacco and toasted spices. Accents of wild herbs add detail, while dense tannins flex their muscles on the long finish. Lively and concentrated, with energy and potential." Wine Spectator

"It's hard to tear yourself away from the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva PS, as a stunning blend of cool mint and menthol gives way to cloves, cedar chips, dried cherries and underbrush. This dark beauty impresses with a texture like crushed velvet, weighty and fleshy yet refined. Sour berries combine with hints of blood orange and inner herbal notes to create an interplay of salty and sweet tension. It's not the concentration or heady aromas or flavours that impress here, but the wonderful balance they all create. The 2016 Riserva PS finishes incredibly long, unexpectedly fresh, with fine-grained tannins and notes of liquorice and blackcurrant." Vinous

"From a small, precious cru of 1.5 ha in the Pellagrilli area, aged for 24 months in barrique, then in bottle, a wine of lush concentration. Red currant jam, with notes of lemon thyme and even sweet spices like cinnamon. The mouthfeel is dense and crisp, with saline tannins and a fruity, balsamic return on the finish." Luca Gardini

"This is a wine of impressive size and depth. The Siro Pacenti 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva PS is modern, bold, powerful and built like a brick wall. It offers plenty of concentration and richness of texture, but it also boasts a fairly dark ruby colour that is beautiful in the glass. It is a healthy, vibrant wine with plenty of aromatic character. The tannins are fruity and oaky (both of which ensure that the wine can age for a long time in the cellar), and it sits firmly on the palate, giving it creaminess and structure. Give it plenty of time to develop. With time (I tasted the bottle again 24 and 48 hours after opening), it reveals delicate nuances of mountain herbs, mint and violets. There are only 650 bottles of this vintage and some larger formats." Wine Advocate

"Enchanting nuances of blue fruits, raspberries and black cherries with flowers such as rosemary flowers and violets. Full-bodied with a dense and intense palate of ripe tannins that are fine and polished. So persistent and beautiful with focus and brightness. Lasts for minutes after. Try it after 2024." James Suckling

Scrio - a great Tuscan Syrah from Le Macchiole - is a real beauty. The persistent bouquet offers aromas of dark berries and cured meat, warm and balsamic on the palate with great intensity and dynamism, rich in extract and long. SUPERIORE.DE

"A Syrah parcel planted in the Alberello vineyard. Deep with lots of Syrah spice, blackcurrant bush and dark, spiced chocolate, delicately gelled red and black fruits, liquorice and blueberries. Polished and precisely structured in the mouth, super juicy with rather red fruits, delicate creaminess, good freshness and with grippy, fine-meshed tannins, spicy and noble." Weinwisser

"Sparkling ruby colour with a slight violet hue. Fragrant nose with notes of violets and black cherries, underpinned by subtle spicy components, lots of cardamom. Lots of fresh fruit on the palate up front, then opens up with grippy, but somewhat large tannins at the core." Falstaff

"Plenty of flowers and fresh fruit such as blackberries and raspberries. A hint of cloves and nutmeg. Medium to full-bodied, with ultra-fine tannins and a crisp and crunchy finish. A little tight on the finish, suggesting that it still has three to four years to mature in the bottle." James Suckling

"A lean, elegant red wine with aromas and flavours of violets, blueberries, boysenberries, earth and spices. Dense yet fluid, with fine-grained tannins and a well-defined fruit bundle that lingers on the finish. Shows excellent finesse and balance." Wine Spectator

"The nose is smooth and dark like a well-tailored suit, while the salty chewiness of black olives waltzes with the acidity of blackberries and blueberries and a firework of black pepper shoots into the night sky. The olives and dark fruits continue to dance on the palate until the song ends with a crescendo of spicy dark chocolate. The elegant tannins watch you from the other side of the ballroom, while the acidity simmers unobtrusively but unforgettably on the balcony." Wine Enthusiast

"The Scrio 2020 is a beautiful wine. At this stage, the Scrio is quite closed, but that's probably a very good thing for its long-term ageing prospects. With time in the glass, notes of white pepper, smoke, dried flowers, mint and chalk emerge, adding brightness to a core of sweet red and blood orange fruit. This is the first vintage in which the vineyard site in the hills of Bolgheri has changed significantly." Vinous

"The 2020 Scrio is a beautiful Syrah from Tuscany that shows impeccable elegance with a very long and straightforward style that is reflected on the nose and palate. I love the precision of this wine. The famous Rhône grape has found a very happy home in this part of the Tuscan coast. The team at Le Macchiole is particularly talented at emphasising the nuances of the grape variety: dark fruits, baking chocolate, spices, charred meat, white pepper and pencil shavings." Wine Advocate

The Viognier and Chardonnay vines grow on Caiarossa's most calcareous terroir. The grapes are fermented separately in oak barrels, matured on the lees and blended at the end, with little or no racking in order to produce the wine with as little oxygen contact as possible. The result is a precise and clean white wine that, with its beautiful volume, depth and smoothness with fragrant flavours of flowers and almonds, goes well with a delicate and fragrant pesto. SUPERIORE.DE

"Pale straw yellow with green-yellow reflections. Still shy and reserved on the nose with hints of citrus fruit and melon. More present on the palate, soft, yet with animating acidity, fine fruit melting into the finish." Falstaff

"Sliced pear, yogurt, lemon and flint aromas follow through to a medium body with a solid core of fruit such as Meyer lemons and a fresh finish. Rather spicy at the end." James Suckling

Polissena shows the typical signature of Il Borro: the wines are made as typical of the grape variety as possible and therefore come into the glass as authentically and transparently as possible - particularly recognisable here with Sangiovese. The nose has a fine cherry flavour with hints of wild berries, forest floor, herbs and a little plum. On the palate, the typical acidity is paired with delicate fruit, a firm centre and a taut final. The 12-month maturation in used and almost neutral barriques is very conducive to the freshness and straightforwardness of the Polissena. Great drinking pleasure and stylistically comparable to a Brunello! SUPERIORE.DE

"Lifted nose with herbs, spice and red fruit. Vanilla and dill notes mingle with cherry and orange zest nuances." Decanter

"Il Borro’s 2019 Valdarno di Sopra Sangiovese Vigna Polissena sees 30 days of fermentation and is aged in neutral barrique for 18 months. It offers a silky and gentle character with very direct fruit that is softened by oak spice. A pretty note of minerality seals the deal." Wine Advocate

"The nose is sunny and wild, with aromas of warm tar and brick dust, then Bing cherries and blood orange, then packed earth, crushed sage and wild fennel that roll onto a round and lush palate of strawberries, cherries, bitter orange and wild herbs. A hint of acidity and a growing peppery spiciness on the back palate linger into a lingering finish." Wine Enthusiast

"Flavours of cedar, salted caramel, fresh flowers and cherries follow through to a medium body with ultra-fine tannins that integrate beautifully with the wine. A hint of wood at the end, but a lovely finish." James Suckling

Poggio Lombrone is a selection of Sangiovese vines that are over fifty years old. The 2018 vintage is stunningly beautiful and absolutely classic with a bouquet that opens with crushed black cherries, cooling sweet herbal notes and dusty cedar. After some time in the glass, flavours of plums, cranberries and undergrowth unfold. Velvety and rich on the palate, harmonious, with ripe wild berries pouring over a core of savoury acids balanced by a hint of sour citrus. All framed by fine tannins that slowly rise towards the end. In the delightful final, rosy flowers, ferruginous mineral notes and savoury spices, great! SUPERIORE.DE

"Shimmering ruby red colour. Spicy notes and ripe, dark fruit predominate on the nose. Finely integrated tannins and soft, ripe fruit flavours on the palate, mouth-filling with good length." Falstaff

"Cherry pits, tomato leaves, sage and crushed pepper on the nose. It is medium to full-bodied, with beautifully polished, fine-grained tannins and a flavoursome, peppery finish." James Suckling

"The 2018 Montecucco Sangiovese Riserva Poggio Lombrone opens slowly in the glass, initially earthy and a little herbal, while notes of wild strawberries and dusty roses unfold with swirling. The palate is lapped by a seamless, silky texture and ripe wild berries, underpinned by salty minerals that gain traction towards the finish. A layer of fine tannin remains along with residual acids that maintain a lovely freshness as the Poggio Lombrone finishes discreetly and with medium length." Vinous

The single vineyard Serradenari is currently the highest in the Barolo area and is also the historic site of the appellation (MGA - Menzione Geografica Aggiuntiva). The cool and mountainous climate with its clay and marl soils gives rise to a Nebbiolo that makes few words - it is precise, clear and unambiguous.

All the more exciting when the result opens up with some aeration and maturity and reveals its full range of sensuality and loveliness. An impressive wine that leaves little to be desired in terms of finesse and clarity, were it not for the one or two secrets that lie dormant here, which only reveal themselves when you fully indulge in this aristocratic growth. SUPERIORE.DE

"Elegant and wafting, the wine is shaped by the combination of wild cherries and savory herbs. Subtle notes of dried wildflowers and forest floor fill the glass as the wine develops. On the palate, sour red fruits burst forth, backed by an abundance of acidity, yet intermingled with an umami rich background that are shaped by elegant tannins that reveal an earthy and lifted finish." Wine Enthusiast

"Very pale ruby color. Pomegranate, red currants, fresh violets and a citrus character of lemons and grapefruit. The palate is firm but relaxed, with a medium body, dusty ripe tannins and crisp acidity. It will develop complexity with aging." James Suckling

Fragrant bouquet of light-coloured flowers, peach and tropical fruit, slight hints of honey and minerals. Smooth on the palate, very balanced, complex and with an invigorating mineral freshness. A very rare, remarkable Tuscan Chardonnay, aged for 11 months on the lees in barriques. Chardonnay Collezione Privata is a real achievement, above all for its natural ability to showcase the purity of the grape variety and the importance of texture in equal measure. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling light gold colour. Elegant, beguiling bouquet of ripe stone fruit and honeydew melon, with hints of orange blossom, acacia honey and a touch of nutmeg. Smooth as silk on the palate, gentle and decisive with very well-integrated, spicy wood, great precision and length." Falstaff

"The 2022 Chardonnay Collezione Privata is an elegant, very supple wine. Notes of apricot, dried flowers, chamomile and hazelnut are framed by a subtle kiss of French oak. Medium-bodied and refined, the 2022 is quite impressive, especially for this year." Vinous

"Very restrained citrus profile with notes of bitter lemon peel and yellow grapefruit accompanied by delicate roasted flavours. The attack is polished, with a medium body, well-integrated acidity, a savoury grip on the finish and a soft, hedonistic but always exciting texture. How much this wine has improved compared to the past." James Suckling

"The Isole e Olena 2022 Chardonnay Collezione Privata is spirited and full of character, thanks to a vein of spice and cinnamon that combines with nectarine and poached pear. I love the unabashed intensity of this warm vintage. The acidity is present and the bouquet sings powerfully. This blend of ripe fruit and oak spice overlays the medium to full-bodied mouthfeel and gives the wine a long persistence." Wine Advocate

Vintage 2018 marks Vietti's exciting Barolo debut from one of Piedmont's most famous vineyards, characterised by exuberant aromas and bright, red-tinged fruit. The bouquet is enormously opulent with ripe fruit aromas ranging from wild cherry to red currant. This is joined by original tones of jam, plum and a hint of ragout. The palate is nuanced and very deep, with enormous complexity, volume and character. Vietti's Cerequio is stunning right off the bat! SUPERIORE.DE

"Vietti Winery is a newcomer to this prestigious MGA: multi-layered aromatics of red fruits, flowers, wood spice; the approach is polished, possesses precise acidity and pithy tannin, intense fresh fruit finish. Pleases with its elegant style." Vinum

"Wonderfully fruit-presence of cassis and blood oranges, fresh tea leaves, roses and moss; highly refined velvety substance, casually taut draw, mineral notes, lively and playful with great length and fine fruity finish, great class. Vietti's new site is one of the best of the vintage!" Weinwisser

"Shiny, rich ruby with a slight garnet shimmer. Compact and appealing nose, full of ripe plums, some blackberry, plus lots of white truffle. Shows fine melting on the palate, opens with grippy, present tannin in fine layers, juicy and salty on the final." Falstaff

"Aromas of raspberries and citrus transition to a medium-bodied palate with very fine tannins and a slightly firm finish. Quite a lightweight, but nicely balanced." James Suckling

"The 2018 Barolo Cerequio is a new wine in this range. The Cerequio is characterised by its exuberant aromas and bright, red-tinged fruit. Nuanced and deep, with tremendous complexity and lots of character, the Cerequio is stunning. This is everything a great Barolo from Cerequio should be. In other words, textbook. More than that, it is one of the best wines of this very inconsistent vintage." Vinous

"Here is an exciting new submission from Vietti. The 2018 Barolo Cerequio is beautiful, with a broad and rich bouquet that paints a panoramic vision of this MGA spanning the villages of La Morra and Barolo. Despite this broad vision, this wine also stands out for its subtle aromas of wild cherry, gravel and black liquorice. Cerequio is a wine of great breadth and depth. Taut tannins help to bring it together into a comprehensive whole. Only 4,925 bottles of this first release were made. Congratulations." Wine Advocate

"From a small parcel in the classic cru of the commune of Barolo, about 35 years old plants. The aroma has a nice intensity, notes of red cherries, then undergrowth, eucalyptus and a nice finish. On the palate, balsamic and juniper notes, spicy tannins and great persistence." Luca Gardini

"An expression of elegance in Serralunga", Luca Currado underlines at the tasting of Lazzarito, and we already agree with him on the nose. Gravel, pebbles, red fruits, rose petals, lavender and sage permeate this plastic and very lively Serralunga Barolo. Baroli from Serralunga d'Alba are often in a category of their own thanks to their richness and sheer abundance of fruit. The balsamic symphony opens the doors to a sip that is undoubtedly powerful, but at the same time refreshing and rich in vitamins. With added aeration, Lazzarito delivers mint and balsamic herbs. Lazzarito sets the pace and never loses its rhythm, the great texture of the tannins flanks this palate spectacle in an ideal way and we will discover much more about this great Barolo in the years to come. SUPERIORE.DE

"The round dance opens with fine-smelling notes of red berries and pepper; the attack is full-bodied, the tannins delicately chiselled and in symbiosis with the acidity, perfect evolution, elegant final. Great wine that can still mature." Vinum

"Blood oranges, red berries and hazelnuts; above all, lots of firm structure, casually austere and very taut, crisp and fresh, has a citrus touch and leafy notes, juniper, dark minerality, enormous tension, a still brittle beauty with lots of character, glides finely fruity into the long finish; super potential." Weinwisser

"Sparkling, brightening ruby garnet. Open and inviting nose with notes of cranberry, rose, pomegranate and dried orange peel. Grippy and grippy tannins fuel this wine, fine cherry and orange notes, final with leather, long finish." Falstaff

"On the nose, this wine is quite flamboyant, showing raspberries and grainy notes, along with a hint of fresh mushrooms. With air, some lighter passion fruit comes through. Medium-bodied with an intense core of vibrant fruit and youthful tannins that will add length and breadth to the wine over time. Wait for this wine. Taste it from 2024." James Suckling

"The 2018 Barolo Lazzarito is tense, lively and very closed in on itself. Burning tannins and serralunga structure dominate today. Gravel, pebbles, red fruits, rose petals, lavender and sage run through this plastic, vibrant Serralunga Barolo. What distinguishes Lazzarito most today is that it is stylistically more similar to the other Barolos than it was a few years ago. I expect great things here with time." Vinous

"Round and full of plum, cherry, pomegranate, green tea and eucalyptus aromas, this red wine is also dense and muscular. The finish is dominated by grippy tannins. Overall, it is balanced and very long." Wine Spectator

"Serralunga d'Alba, a magnificent site in the shape of an amphitheatre, with calcareous clay soil. A Barolo of excellent muscularity, nose with notes of wild mint, then raspberry and white pepper. The mouthfeel has spicy-salty tannins, depth, with great persistence and fruity return." Luca Gardini

"The 2018 Barolo Lazzarito represents Vietti's interpretation of Serralunga d'Alba, the village often associated with the appellation's most powerful wines. The Lazzarito completes its second fermentation in barrique over three months and is then transferred to large oak bottles where it ages for a further two years. With around 8,000 bottles produced in this smaller vintage, the wine is very indicative of its geographical origin with dense black fruit, rusty nail, blood orange and earth. Compared to the other wines in this series, this wine offers more persistent tannins. It's still a little salty and spicy now, but it lends itself well to long ageing." Wine Advocate

Beguiling aroma of sweet, dark berries with a hint of cassis, cedar wood and antique leather. Very balanced on the palate, beautifully viscous with an elegant melt. Fine-meshed tannins, restrained mineral tones and wonderfully polished fruit accompany a remarkable finish. For all its elegance, it shows pressure and power and, with the right dose of acidity, promises a long life and almost reaches the level of its famous big brother. SUPERIORE.DE

"Despite the sunny character of the vintage, Le Serre Nuove dell'Ornellaia 2022 is an expression of great elegance and freshness. The wine has a purple-red colour of great intensity and the nose exudes aromas of ripe black fruit, spices and lightly toasted wood. On the palate, it opens with a juicy, full-bodied attack and progresses on a rich tannin structure with beautiful density. The finish is soft and very long-lasting. Le Serre Nuove dell'Ornellaia is already a pleasure to drink. It will reach its perfect maturity in ten years." Marco Balsimelli, Direktor

"Rich, impenetrable, dark shiny ruby colour. Fine bouquet, subtle notes of blackcurrant, followed by mocha and cocoa. Impressive and delicate on the palate, elegant and expansive, well-integrated wood, fine tannins, animating to drink, retronasal herbal spice and a long, persistent finish with a fine tannin structure." Falstaff

"The 2022 Le Serre Nuove dell'Ornellaia is everything a second wine should be. Open and racy, the 2022 caresses the palate with juicy red fruits. Floral and spicy notes with a hint of blood orange open up the wine on the mid-palate and finish. Soft, silky tannins round off the whole. This stylish red wine from Ornellaia is a real eye-catcher." Vinous

"A soft red wine that produces aromas and flavours of cedar, plums, blackcurrants, blackberries, vanilla and resin. Broad and dense, with accents of leather, earth and tobacco on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"This vintage is structured and rich with sweet tannins and a smooth texture. This hot vintage certainly brings more fruit weight, but the wine remains fresh and well balanced overall." Wine Advocate

"The brightness and purity of the fruit is so beautiful here, showing flowers and redcurrants. Very aromatic. Lots of finesse and focus on the medium-bodied palate with super-fine tannins and a lovely finish. Lively. Why wait for this?" James Suckling

This is a special Riserva from Michele Chiarlo that is late to the market. The Barolo Riserva Cerequio is a great wine, with particularly taut tannins and a concentrated richness that permeates its substantial textile fibre. The flavours of dark fruits such as blackberries and dried cherries are accompanied by spices, leather, tar and ashes from the bonfire. The wine shows the concentration and density of long oak ageing with tannins that definitely need more ageing before this exceptional wine will fully convince its connoisseurs! SUPERIORE.DE

"This red has settled into a nice groove, evoking fading cherry and ripe berry fruit, eucalyptus, menthol and mint notes, with an underlying mineral component. Tightens up on the finish, suggesting this still has some time to give." Wine Spectator

"Beautiful nose of dried red fruits, cherry chocolate, bergamot and bark with hints of citrus blossom and dry earth. So polished and refined with medium to full body and a compact tannin structure. It has savoury nuances in the fruit character and a minerality of gravel on the finish. Already attractive now, but can age further." James Suckling

"The 2016 vintage is still young. Held back for further aging at the winery, the Michele Chiarlo 2016 Barolo Riserva Cerequio has only begun to move away from primary intensity. Flavours of dried fruit and pressed roses follow through to a long, polished mouthfeel. The Cerequio is a full-bodied wine with rich fruit and savoury oak tannins." Wine Advocate

"Enchanting aromas of sour cherry jam, baking spices and rosewood only scratch the surface of what can and will emerge from this stunning Barolo. The palate strikes a firm note with a foundation of tannins and acidity built for the cellar, while tart red berry, aged tea and herbal flavours give an enticing aura to this wine." Wine Enthusiast

"M" stands for Mario Schiopetto. This is the wine that the children have dedicated to their father for years and it is the undisputed white flagship of the winery. This exceptional Friulano with a dash of Riesling seduces with elegant aromas of white flowers, a little smoke and spirited fruit. Ingeniously balanced, fresh and of considerable length and great ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Such clear mineral character here with peach-pit and dried-apple character. Very complex and subtle. It’s full-bodied with a tight, refined palate feel and length. It’s flinty and steely at the end with crushed stones." James Suckling

Luca Currado cultivates the Brunate Cru on the La Morra side of the vineyard (opposite the Barolo side) and this wine contains fruit from new plots. It convinces with an impressive aroma of red berries, cherries, wild herbs, mint, minerals and rose petals, rounded off by a hint of blood orange. On the palate we find a terrific softness and textural silkiness, this continues with hints of mint, liquorice and camphor ash for many minutes. Polished tannins round off this masterpiece into an extremely elegant Brunate. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sweet raspberries and strawberries on the nose, as well as some chalky minerals. Full-bodied with a tight bead of fruit and mineral flavors that have a hand on the firm tannins and produce good focus and drive at the end. Needs time to integrate. Try from 2025." James Suckling

"The 2018 Barolo Brunate is a deep, layered wine that is going to need at least a few years to come together. Today, the Brunate is quite primary and backward, but all the ingredients are there. Sage, menthol, licorice, dried flowers and spice build with a bit of coaxing." Vinous

"With fruit from La Morra, the mid-weight 2018 Barolo Brunate shows a pretty softness and a delicate side with dried rose, lilac and blue flower. The wine completes malolactic fermentation in barrique and is later moved into large oak casks for aging. This dual oak treatment is part of Vietti's secret recipe for producing the silky tannins and fine texture you taste here. A production of 4,493 bottles, the wine is recognized by that distinctive aromatic finale of licorice and balsam herb." Wine Advocate

"A refined, silky red marked by a mix of rose, strawberry, cherry, eucalyptus and white pepper aromas and flavors. Shows ample structure and fine intensity as this builds to a long, dusty, mineral-tinged finish. Harmonious, firm and fresh." Wine Spectator

"Municipality of La Morra, the south side of another prestigious cru, with calcareous-clay soil and the classic Marne of Sant’Agata. Plants of about 55 years that originate a wine with the nose of wild plum, then violet, ginger, pink grapefruit and licorice root. Sip with iodine tannins, with a return of the sensations of licorice." Luca Gardini

This barrique-aged Passito is an absolute gem even for die-hard connoisseurs of sweet wines and is also an exotic wine for the region. The Quintarelli family only produces it by hand in the very best vintages, making it a real rarity and the small production run also explains, but is not limited to, its price. Brilliant golden yellow with amber-coloured reflections. Candied apricot, peach, orange peel and a delicate honey note on the nose, rounded off with warm components such as sugar couleur, roasted almonds and melted butter. It is firm and enveloping on the palate, yet retains its freshness with every sip and has great persistence and impressive, unforgettable length. SUPERIORE.DE

"Truly exotic, the Amabile del Cerè tempts the imagination with a wild bouquet of tropical citrus, melon, vanilla bean and confectionary spice. It's silky and seamless on the palate, with juicy acidity guiding stimulating notes of kiwi and tangerine. For all of its depth, this tapers off remarkably fresh yet still long and potent, leaving a staining of dried nectarine and a flourish of sweet, autumnal spices that lingers on and on. Once again, I'm amazed by how Quintarelli has managed to find such balance, as the Amabile del Cerè finishes at 130 grams-per-liter of residual sugar but doesn't come across as sweet or cloying. Well done." Vinous

Schiena d'Asino is a small vineyard from which this fabulous Brunello is produced exclusively in excellent years. Schiena captivates with its richness and overall intensity and is endowed with a lot of energy and varietal purity. Sage, rosemary and a host of Mediterranean herbs open up first, followed by graphite, smoke, incense, dark spices and black stone fruits. Wild, intensely mineral notes underpin the fruit and capture the essence of the great site. For an exceptional wine, this Brunello remains remarkably light on its feet, yet it is an introspective, brooding wine that will need at least a few years to show all it has to offer. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, rich ruby garnet. Finely marked nose with notes of rose petals, some raspberry, fine spice in the background. Builds up richly on the palate, dark berry fruit, opens with grippy, dense tannin, still shows itself very young." Falstaff

"Developing mid ruby. Brooding and intense on the nose with hints of graphite and filled out by oak. Full mouth of juicy, spicy cherry fruit framed by bags of delicious, chewy tannins. Very long and deep and gorgeously balanced. Tactile fireworks. Ready now but will hold." Jancis Robinson

"A historic vineyard for the denomination and for the winery, which returns in a version of great concentration, aged in Alliers oak. Nose of wild plum, with touches of Mediterranean scrub and chinotto. Mouth with savory-salty tannins, finish with fruity return." Luca Gardini

"This is structured and muscular, yet in a toned and polished way. It’s full-bodied with a linear and racy nature, showing focused black-cherry, orange-peel and berry character. Flavorful and extremely long. Better after 2024." James Suckling

"Forest floor, violet and camphor aromas come to the forefront along with whiffs of toasted nut on this full-bodied red. It's elegant and structured, featuring dried cherry, tobacco and licorice framed in tightly knit, fine-grained tannins, while fresh acidity keeps it balanced. Give it time to fully develop." Wine Enthusiast

"A lithe, focused red, evoking strawberry, cherry, currant, spice and tobacco flavors. Shows intensity and grip, with accents of leather and licorice chiming in on the finish. Well-structured and lingers on the chalky, mineral aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"Planted in 1978, the 1.2ha Schiena d’Asino plot boasts a southeast to southwest exposition reaching almost 400 metres above sea level on stony, clay soil. Long ageing in 16-hectolitre French oak casks is followed by a year in bottle before release. The 2016 surfaces from its shell slowly and beguilingly, bestowing dried lavender, sage blossom and mint with a heady suggestion of truffles. The rich, dark red-fruited palate is framed by sandy, dusty tannins. Some heat rises on the mid-palate but is soaked up by plush layers, finishing on a salty liquorice note." Decanter

"The late-release 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Schiena d'Asino captivates with a display of sweet smoke and crushed stone giving way to dusty black raspberry and savory herbs. It’s silky-smooth and cool-toned, peppering the senses with mineral-tinged woodland berries and hints of spice. Grippy tannins build toward the close, saturating the palate beneath red inner florals. This tapers off with heroic structure but also the primary fruits to balance. The 2016 Vigna Schiena d’Aine is a dark stallion of a Brunello that's packed full of potential." Vinous

"The Mastrojanni 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Schiena d'Asino (with only 6,000 bottles made) is a joy. This classic 2016 vintage was extremely kind to Sangiovese, but not all producers were able to harness this level of varietal purity, elegance and sheer energy. This soulful wine is indeed best characterized by its inner electricity. The "donkey's back," or Schiena d'Asino, is a special vineyard site where grapes enjoy long sun hours and cool nighttime temperatures." Wine Advocate

LUX VITIS comes from Cabernet Sauvignon vines over 12 years old and contains a small amount of Sangiovese. Intense, full bouquet of sweet blackberries. A core of dark cherries and dark berries on the palate, framed by sweet spices, bitter chocolate and campfire embers. As with the other wines in the Tenuta Luce portfolio, oak spice and tannins play an important role in the basic style expressed here. LUX VITIS will reveal its true treasure only with years of maturity. SUPERIORE.DE