Wine

Over the years, Roberto Voerzio has changed his winemaking to a gentler extraction and reduced the influence of French oak, making the purity of the fruit very expressive. What is remarkable about all his wines is his non-interventionist approach. In addition, up to two-thirds of each bunch is cut away in the vineyard to ensure even ripening of the remaining grapes. Roberto also chooses different bottle formats to present each wine as accurately as possible.

Sarmassa, for example, is one of his Barolo wines, which he bottles exclusively in magnum formats. Sarmassa is very similar to the style of Cerequio, which is not surprising as the vineyards are close together. It is luxurious and radiant, with a gorgeous inner perfume, bright red fruits and fine, silky tannins that flow from the glass, reflecting a seamless, soft expression of Nebbiolo. The exceptionally long and pure finish is reminiscent of a variety of freshly cut flowers. Barolo Sarmassa is still quite closed today and will mature at a snail's pace in magnum format compared to the other wines of this vintage. But even today, the luxurious fruit and elegance of the wine cannot be overlooked, you just need to be patient for a few years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Aromas of stones, seashell, plum and strawberry as well as orange peel follow through to a medium to full body with chewy tannins that are slightly angular but it turns juicy and beautiful at the end. Needs time to soften. Made only in magnums. Drink after 2028." James Suckling

In the exceptional year of 2016, Filippo Chia decided to vinify a Riserva for the first time. The Castello Romitorio Brunello di Montalcino Filo di Seta Riserva comes from a unique vineyard site characterised by a greater presence of slate or slate-like shards in the soils. These conditions contribute to the very typical, sharp and concentrated aromas that are offered here on a silver platter. One automatically thinks of pencil shavings and granite rock. However, the wine is equally impressive when it comes to its rich fruit and floral profile, and there is enough spice and soft leather or tobacco to bring it all together in one happy package. A magnificent masterpiece! SUPERIORE.DE

"The first ever Riserva from Castello Romitorio’s Filo di Seta plot, this is crafted from a handful of selected tonneaux – mostly used but a couple new. Significantly, it comes predominantly from early-picked grapes. Still in its infancy, the 2016 is not ready to divulge everything. Weighty with depths of wild, spicy, dark fruit, yet radiant in its acidity, a sturdy framework of tannins sticks to the palate with a pulverised, chalky texture giving immense grip. Anise, mint and clove show up on the finish." Decanter

"This red is linear, dense and concentrated, both for its black cherry, black currant and blueberry fruit and its fine-grained, dusty tannins. Lively and balanced, yet needs time to unwind and gain more of the complexity that's buried within. The fresh, lingering finish reveals mineral, soy and spice accents." Wine Spectator

"Here's a new wine from Castello Romitorio, and it makes perfect sense that the Filo di Seta project should also be presented as a Riserva. The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Filo di Seta is elongated and silky. It wraps smoothly over the palate with well-dosed fruit, tannic structure and brilliant acidity. It should be exciting to follow this wine over the cooler and the warmer vintages of the future. Only 3,900 bottles were created." Wine Advocate

"This is really powerful and intense with a full body, yet it remains agile and vivid. Chewy, but polished and classy. Persistent, yet weightless and floating. Black-cherry and dark-plum flavors with pine-cone and mushroom undertones. Give it at least five years to soften. Best after 2025." James Suckling

"I had high expectations for the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Filo di Seta Riserva. This is youthfully restrained and grumbling in the glass, but it’s worth waiting for, as a captivating display of mentholated herbs, dusty rose, lavender, black cherries, hints of animal musk and crushed ashen stone evolves before your eyes. It’s deeply textural and polished in feel, but also full of zesty, cooling acidity that enlivens the sultry core of dark fruits and exotic spices. A saturation of tannin coats the palate, creating a massively structured and long finale with lingering remnants of salted licorice and inner violet tones. The 2016 Riserva Filo di Seta may be a masterpiece in the making, though it will be many years before it shows all of its hidden beauty." Vinous

Andrea Franchetti began in the 1990s to position Palazzi as an equal red alongside his flagship Tenuta di Trinoro, with the aim of producing two exceptional wines reminiscent of the left and right banks of Bordeaux.

Just three words: power, intensity and concentration. With a very manageable production of 1,660 bottles, here is a full-throttle Tuscan wine that constantly exudes generous black fruits, spices and sweet tobacco. There is also black cherry and plum, which lend the wine soft contours and sweetness. On the palate, it is firm, well-structured and delights with a mouthfulness that is unrivalled. Take a good piece of red meat, marinate it in rosemary and olive oil before putting it on the charcoal grill and then embark on this monumental adventure. SUPERIORE.DE

"Splendid Merlot from loamy soils, tinged with blackberries and cassis, flanked by fine spice, tobacco and dark chocolate flavours; slightly less dense than last year, but still with a lot of finesse and a perfectly balanced tannin-acid structure, subtle minerality and complexity in the lingering final. Very successful!" Vinum

"The Palazzi 2020 is packed with dark fruits, cloves, leather and dark chocolate. Rich, deep and quite potent, the 2020 is another extroverted wine in this range. The tannins are a little curmudgeonly, but otherwise the 2020 is beautifully made and shows promise, especially as the tannins soften." Vinous

"The aromas of raspberries, plums and violets are very enticing. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a creamy and refined texture that is long and beautiful. A blend of Merlot parcels. Juicy and delicious." James Suckling

"Shows pure black cherry and blackberry fruit, along with olives, wild herbs and mineral accents. It offers a rich structure, but the overall impression is one of velvety texture and great harmony. Lively finish that leaves a salty impression. It is already accessible now, but will improve with time." Wine Spectator

"A primarily sanguine and umami nose draws balance from sweet, slightly astringent notes of plum, blueberry and boysenberry. The berries flourish on the palate, but acid brings out a latent mix of pepper and spices to preserve balance, while silky, opaque tannins provide framing." Wine Enthusiast

"The Palazzi 2020 is a 100% Merlot made to the highest standards by a winemaker, the late Andrea Franchetti, who strived for perfection. From his beloved Tenuta di Trinoro in Sarteano, with its endless skies and rolling landscapes, this wine shows plump fruit, blackberries, plums, spice and campfire ash. Coming from a hot vintage, the fruit is beautifully ripe, but by no means exaggerated. The wine shows softness, tension and a supple texture. This bottle gives a lot of intensity and charm." Wine Advocate

"Rich, bright ruby colour with a fine violet sheen. Compact and very present nose, smells of ripe blackberries, blueberries, some truffle and graphite in the background, beautiful play. Fills out the palate without becoming overpowering, ripe blueberry and blackberry fruit, polished, fine-meshed tannins in many layers, coated in fine enamel, simply fun! " Falstaff

Messorio has been undisputedly one of the best and rarest Merlots in Italy since the mid-1990s. Soft, rich, elegant, refined and never exaggerated. Ripe fruit, coffee, graphite and French oak on the nose. Structured and balanced, Messorio fascinates the international wine world every year with a clarity and length that is unrivalled. SUPERIORE.DE

"Multi-layered bouquet with concentrated elegance, mint, tar, liquorice, cocoa, blueberry, blackberry and blood orange. Very broad and deeply layered. The elegant palate continues with ethereal spice and melting, this Merlot is dense and tightly woven, enormously long and persistent, with a lot of mineral, balsamic spice and saltiness on the finish." Weinwisser

"Sparkling, rich ruby colour with a slightly brightening rim. Opens with fine spicy notes of cardamom and graphite, then lots of blackberry and mulberry. Full-bodied and rich in attack and finish, lots of dark berry fruit, tightly woven, densely woven tannins, surrounded by fine enamel, full-bodied pressure." Falstaff

"In the glass, the wine is dark garnet in colour and captivates with its aromas of cassis and leaves, which contrast with a dark, fleshy note and a loamy minerality. The dense, viscous and velvety palate is balanced by crisp acidity, slightly grainy, youthful tannins and a polished finish." Decanter

"Pure and elegant, with a core of blackberry, black cherry, violet, iron and oak spice flavours. The solid tannins provide some backbone, while the velvety texture emphasises the grace of this wine. Excellent balance and length." Wine Spectator

"Intense aromas of sandalwood, lavender, crushed stone, inkwell and blue fruit transition into a medium body, with beautiful tannins and tension that add energy and vibrancy. Excellent freshness for 2020, with blackcurrants, black olives and violets in the aftertaste." James Suckling

"The Messorio 2020 is a deep and richly structured wine that has become one of the flagships of winemaker Cinza Merli. Ripe fruit, dark cherries, oak spice and roasted aromas combine with balanced intensity to characterise this generous expression from Tuscany. The problem with Merlot, especially in a hot vintage like this one, is ripeness, or more precisely, over-ripeness. Messorio masters a difficult growth phase with flying colours." Wine Advocate

"The Messorio 2020 is fabulous. Once an opulent, full-bodied wine, the Messorio has now evolved into a much more restrained Merlot. The 2020 has a lot of energy and seems to have a great future once it has developed properly. I really admire the vibrancy of this wine. The 2020 matured for 18 months in 100% French oak, 5% of the wine was aged in amphorae." Wine Advocate

"The nose is reminiscent of a private library with old books on the shelves, dried lavender and violets on the desk and rays of sunshine and humid air from outside streaming through the curtains, held in check by a smoky warmth from the fireplace. The palate unfolds with an abundance of berries, chocolate and spice, with a salty astringency in the background. Tannins and acidity that are quiet at first, but then flare up." Wine Enthusiast

Rich, deep dark ruby red colour. The bouquet opens with dark cherries, blue flowers and earth. The tannins are taut, almost crisp, and the wine offers a deep pedigree and persistence that is carried by the distinct acidity. This depth is what stands out the most. Since 2016, a small part of the wine has been aged in clay amphorae, which has resulted in an even more elegant and refined Flaccianello. As always, it deserves a top place among the pure Sangiovese from central Tuscany and connoisseurs are giving it time to develop further. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red in colour. Opens the nose with rich earthy tones of ripe plum and ripe Amarena cherry, slightly reminiscent of rum pot, with a walnut and mint finish. In the mouth with balsamic-earthy tones, shows a lot of tannin and grip, then great juiciness in the back, still needs to come together, put it away and forget about it for a few years." Falstaff

"Classic Supertuscan from the Conca d'Oro of Panzano: Enchanting with notes of stone fruit, undergrowth and leather; the entry is dense and yet with finesse, the tannins powdery, the acidity invigorating, also mineral-salty in the further development, in the aftertaste multi-faceted and noble." Vinum

"The Flaccianello della Pieve 2020 is a blend from the Fontodi vineyards, especially from the three main vineyards planted on sites with very dense and heavy rock. Dark, supple and inviting, the 2020 is so expressive today. Black cherry, plum, spice, lavender, liquorice and mocha merge seamlessly in the glass. The 2020 is a fine Flaccianello with a bright future. The majority of this assemblage comes from three parcels on the upper slopes near the town centre." Vinous

"This pure red is sophisticated, complex and balanced, permeated with black cherry, blackberry, violet, mineral and spice aromas and flavors, with tannins that are present yet refined and well-integrated. The fruit persists from beginning to end, defining the finish." Wine Spectator

"The Flaccianello della Pieve 2020 is the complete package. This becomes clear when you taste all the other wines in the Fontodi portfolio and finish with this bottle. This organic Sangiovese shows a beautiful intensity and remains balanced throughout with dark fruits, gravel, spices and wild roses. It picks up on the themes of elegance, depth and maturity that run throughout the vintage. The wine gently envelops the palate with considerable fruit richness and sweet tannins. This expression of a warm vintage can be cellared or savoured straight away." Wine Advocate

"Very floral with sage and liquorice in the berry and dark cherry aromas, leading to a medium body with fine and silky tannins that run the length of the wine. Very crisp for a Flaccianello. Lively on the palate." James Suckling

Deep dark and impenetrable ruby red. Complex bouquet with endless layers of dark fruit and aromas, complex on the palate, tightly woven and with a long, silky mouthfeel. Very focused and juicy Cabernet Franc in Riserva quality from one of the most profound and beautiful vintages of the new millennium so far. SUPERIORE.DE

"This is the top-end wine from Fattoria Kappa made with Cabernet Franc. The 2016 Essenza is packaged in a heavy glass bottle with a black wax capsule. It displays dark fruit, spice and rich saturation with an especially full-bodied style. You'll need to get the grill going for barbecued steak or pork chops to pair with this hearty bottle." Wine Advocate

"Sparkling ruby with a slightly lightening rim. Dense and memorable nose, full of dark currant and pickled cherries, lots of tobacco in the background. Juicy on the palate, well-defined fruit, grippy tannin in many layers, firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

A beautiful, very sensual, feminine wine, vinified only in the best vintages. Exquisitely scented with dark fruits, elegant and fine on the palate with lots of fruit and long. It was named after the nickname once given to the young wild Clerico by his father: Aeroplan Servaj - wild plane. And the décor of the six bottles is just as wild and creative, but see for yourself! SUPERIORE.DE

"Quite polished red and somewhat black berry nose with nutty aromas, a little malt, dried herbs, black olives, chestnuts and tar. Ripe, tightly knit, partly preserved fruit with coffee and cocoa aromas, some smoky wood, chestnuts and malt, present yet ripe and friable tannins, lots of power and substance, some molasses in the background, cedary hints, a little tobacco and tar, still undeveloped, lots of power and substance, distinct wood spice, a little peppery and waxy notes, good depth, salt in the background, very good, firm finish." Wein-Plus

"Bright ruby garnet with brightening rim. Smells of dark raspberries, rose petals and blackberries, plus some tobacco. Substantial and dense in the attack, shows a lot of sweet melting, dark fruit, nice juiciness and length in the final." Falstaff

"At first quite a bit of sweet oak on the nose. Supple, generous and succulent palate with plenty of chewy tannins adding tactile fireworks to the finish. Modernist, no doubt, but done with huge skill." Jancis Robinson

"Tight nose with a fine bead of ripe berries that are enveloped in a mildly spicy, vanilla coating. Some smoky, charcoal-like nuances add interest. Medium-bodied with a very silky palate and fine, powdery tannins that are starting to sink in. Compact and displaying quality. Best from 2024." James Suckling

"From the vineyard of the same name (Aeroplanservaj) in the Baudana Cru. A beautiful family history, the first experience in Serralunga for the historic winery of Monforte, bottled for the first time in 2006. Notes of wild blueberry on the nose, with nuances of gardenia and eucalyptus. The mouthfeel has savory-salty tannins, with a fruity return and officinal sensations." Luca Gardini

"Showing nice softness and ample fruit weight, the 2018 Barolo Aeroplan Servaj is a bold and contemporary expression of Nebbiolo with dark fruit, cured tobacco, candied orange peel, rusty nail and ferrous earth. Fruit is sourced from the Baudana MGA in Serralunga d'Alba with vines planted in 1994. The tannins are plush and rich, and this beautiful collectors' bottle awards you with multilayered complexity and depth." Wine Advocate

Poggio Landi's top growth Chiuso del Lupo comes from a plot of one hectare at 550 m altitude. Fermentation is spontaneous with indigenous yeasts, ageing is in 30 hl French oak barrels. Deep dark ruby red. On the nose, dark, earthy forest and undergrowth, plus ripe forest berries with menthol and floral accents. The sweet, lush fruit is accompanied by a salty note, the tannins are expansive but not aggressive, but youthful and chewy. A wine that is made for the long haul and whose future will be great. SUPERIORE.DE

"A juicy and succulent red with plum and berry character, along with orange peel and spice. Full-bodied with creamy tannins that coat the mouth. Lots of fruit, but attractive firmness and brightness." James Suckling

"This red wine is rich, round and fruity, offering aromas of black cherries, blackberries, blackcurrants and spices. It shows a solid tannin structure, yet remains balanced and leaves the impression of ripe fruit." Wine Spectator

"Here is a new addition to the Poggio Landi portfolio, representing a small production of 6,000 bottles. The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Chiuso del Lupo is pressed from a one hectare parcel at an altitude of 550 metres above sea level and is a true delight and the proverbial diamond in the rough. The high altitude vines on the silty, clay-limestone Alberese soils really make the difference. The wine opens with a rich ruby colour that is vibrant and bright. The bouquet offers candied cherry, lilac, blood orange, cola and sweet earth. It stays true to the grape variety and offers added concentration, depth and complexity as it progresses. The wine finishes with soft, silky tannins. This wine is one of the great discoveries of the vintage." Wine Advocate

After many years of identifying the best Merlot, Cabernet and Petit Verdot parcels within the boundaries of their Bolgheri estate with the support of the famous oenologist Michel Rolland, the Antinori family discovered in the early 2000s that in the midst of this microclimate and terroir there was an even more special small vineyard whose results once again surpassed those of the larger area. It was immediately clear to all involved that this unique character had to be vinified and highlighted separately - this was the birth of today's cult wine Lodovico.

Lodovico from the rather "plump" and very balanced year 2015 in Western Tuscany immediately inspires in the glass with its rich, deeply saturated colour and the bouquet of dark plums, cedar wood, white smoke and vanilla. Compact and clear on the palate, the multi-layered aromas of black berries only gradually reveal themselves, but at no point do they seem overloaded. On the contrary: the balanced, bright acidity and the perfectly woven tannin keep the vintage-related opulence well in check and ensure that the DNA of this famous exceptional red wine is not only preserved but especially accentuated. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with a light garnet edge. Very incisive nose, of sour cherries, blackberries and plums, underpinned by fine spices. Dense and gripping on the palate, firm tannin built into lots of sweet melt, baroque richness, a firework of spice flavours." Falstaff

"The 2015 Lodovico is a wine of real character and personality. Espresso, mocha, blackberry, spice, leather, cedar and a host of Cabernet Franc-infused aromas and flavors race out of the glass. Deep and brooding in voice, the 2015 speaks with real authority. A hint of reduction is going to need time in bottle to dissipate." Vinous

"The spectacular 2015 Lodovico is shaping up to be wine of stratospheric intensity, depth and succulence. Lodovico is a six-hectare parcel found within the greater Bellaria vineyard (that makes the Biserno wine) at this important estate in Bibbona, Coastal Tuscany. The entire site is planted to Bordeaux grapes Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. This vintage delivers power and momentum that drives this wine smoothly over the palate. The bouquet is seamless with dark fruit tones that segue to spice, tar, smoke and cured leather." Wine Advocate

"This has a very deep and intense nose of dark plums, black pepper, charcuterie, vanilla, cedar, bark and dried nutmeg. Yet, there’s underlying freshness, thanks to hints of blueberries and fresh spices. Full-bodied and really plush, but framed in a fine coat of chewy tannins. Linear acidity throughout keeps it fresh and spicy." James Suckling

After many years of identifying the best Merlot, Cabernet and Petit Verdot parcels within the boundaries of their Bolgheri estate with the support of the famous oenologist Michel Rolland, the Antinori family discovered in the early 2000s that in the midst of this microclimate and terroir there was an even more special micro-vineyard whose results once again surpassed those of the larger area. It was immediately clear to all involved that this unique character had to be vinified and highlighted separately - this was the birth of today's cult wine Lodovico.

Strong ruby with a black core. Intense and dense nose, opens with blackberry, mulberry and dark currant, tobacco and dark pepper in the background. Polished and velvety in attack and course, shows lots of juicy fruit, dark berries, fine-meshed, very polished tannin, radiates for a long time with a rich finish. Just 7,000 bottles were produced in 2017 from the single vineyard Vigna Lodovico of Tenuta di Biserno. Every year, the wine is a true icon of western Tuscany in terms of expression and complexity and is only allocated to a hand-picked number of importers each year. SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful, sparkling ruby violet. Opens with notes of graphite and tobacco, lots of dark berries, especially blueberry and elderberry, some eucalyptus. Also shows a lot of tobacco on the palate, unfolds with grippy tannin, deep earthy components, some tomato paste, firm pressure on the final, but also drying, additional storage is certainly beneficial." Falstaff

"This has a polished nose of mulberries, cassis, cloves, cedar and lavender. It’s full-bodied with firm, chewy tannins. Plush and creamy with a velvety texture. Layered, rich and intense, with lingering spice and chocolate on a long finish. Very focused. Polished." James Suckling

"This is the headline wine from Lodovico Antinori's Tenuta di Biserno. The hot vintage 2017 Lodovico shows a rich and deeply saturated color with elegant tones of dark fruit, spice, rum cake, dried plum, jerky, charred meat and cured tobacco. Like the Biserno, this special vineyard selection reveals slightly less depth and dimension in terms of mouthfeel. That more compact palate is a common feature of the 2017 vintage in which hard work and severe fruit selection was achieved in order to counter the jammy concentration of the berries. This remains a big wine, however, with the balanced and bright acidity that is a crucial indicator of the wine's undeniable quality and pedigree." Wine Advocate

Valter Fissore bottles less than 4,000 bottles of this incredibly classic Barolo every year. Dark cherries, menthol, flowers and tar are just some of the classic notes in the complex bouquet of the Bricco Pernice from the single vineyard Ravera. On the palate, the austere structure and great power are joined by a fine inner sweetness. The long finish is reminiscent of damp earth, dried herbs and wild flowers. SUPERIORE.DE

"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 with orange-coloured reflections. A breathtaking, multi-layered and complex bouquet with raspberry fruit, salty, mineral notes and a hint of leather. Compact but lush, juicy cherry and raspberry fruit, which develops slowly, and long, grainy, tangible tannins. Mouth-filling, but by no means heavy." Jancis Robinson

"Attractive primary flavours of crushed strawberries and stones follow through to a full body, with fine and polished tannins and a lovely, fresh finish. Lively is a good word to describe this wine overall." James Suckling

"Cherry, plum, tar, tobacco and wild herb flavours permeate this muscular red wine, which is rather austere today, not showing much fruit and has a dense base of powerful tannins. The super-long, ferrous finish shows the future potential of this wine, so keep your hands off it for now." Wine Spectator

Rich, concentrated Bordeaux-style red with the unmistakable signature of top oenological consultant Stéphane Derenoncourt. Multi-layered black fruit on the nose, plus rock, liquorice, camphor and graphite. Impressively supple on the palate, the fruit is always juicy and centred, wonderful and almost perfect in structure, polish, elegance and length. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, noble ruby red colour. Compact nose of rich cherries, black truffle, some pepper, then again plenty of rich berry fruit in the aftertaste, blackberry and cassis. Densely woven on the palate, with a beautiful melting texture and powerful tannins, opens up in many layers, with sparse stony components, radiant and powerful, lingers for a long time, magnificent." Falstaff

"The fresh, inviting nose is like carpaccio with a caprese-inspired garnish of cherry tomatoes, basil and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. The palate continues blending sanguine and umami notes above a latent sweetness, creating a wine that deliciously coats the mouth and then lingers there." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2019 Giorgio Primo is a worth follow up to the stellar 2018. Dense, rich and explosive, the 2019 races across the palate with dark fruit, chocolate, leather, incense and spice. This sumptuous Cabernet Sauvignon-based Panzano red has a ton to offer. The oak is a bit prominent; otherwise, the 2019 is nicely done." Vinous

"Extremely complex aromas of crushed currants, spices and sandalwood with some bark. Violets, too! Full-bodied with creamy, polished tannins and great intensity. Layered and beautiful. Better in 2024, but already beautiful to try." James Suckling

"Vintner Giampaolo Motta's inspiration is the great wines of Bordeaux, and his vision has never changed despite many passing trends. But perhaps his most important choice as a winemaker (born outside of Tuscany) is his firm commitment to Panzano in Chianti as the ideal home for the French grapes he cultivates. This is an etched and polished wine with dark fruit, spice, graphite and pencil shavings. The tannins are beautifully managed, and the wine is long and complex." Wine Advocate

Barolo Cerequio is darker and richer than the Cannubi, but it too shows plenty of elegance in its dark cherries, plums, spices, cocoa and roasted coffee beans. Aromatics, fruit and structure are very well balanced in this delicious medium to full-bodied Barolo. As is so often the case with this bottling, the voice of Cerequio comes into its own. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium to deep ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Polished oak and mineral red fruits. Fantastic, juicy, generous yet cool palate with red fruits. Elegant and with a perfect dose of firm tannins. A wine worthy of this cru." Jancis Robinson

"Flavours of dried strawberries, meat and rose stems follow through to a medium body, with firm and slightly chewy tannins and a medium finish. Straightforward and racy. Better after 2027." James Suckling

"The Michele Chiarlo 2019 Barolo Cerequio is a bold and elegantly concentrated expression with good weight and persistence. This added richness is the secret of this vintage, and this wine carries that weight with ease and grace. Flavours of dark fruits, plums and spices give the wine a lift on the palate. This bottle should age in the cellar for a few more years." Wine Advocate

"Cerequio is an iconic cru and does not disappoint. Immediately aromas of warmed cherries, mint, eucalyptus and mixed spices breeze in and out of the wine while savory and earth notes try their best to be noticed. Tannins are so well-crafted, they provide a strong foundation but feel light as a feather while fruit, herbs and earth flavors create a triumvirate that would make ancient Rome blush." Wine Enthusiast

"From the refined microclimate of Cerequio, 300 metres above sea level, south/south-east exposure, soil of blue marl and medium calcareous sandstone. Notes of strawberry tree, then rhubarb and floral nuances of gerbera. Salty, acidic tannins on the palate, firm and persistent on the finish, with a fruity, floral aftertaste." Luca Gardini

Only around 2,000 bottles of this noble Riserva are filled each year. With a rich aroma of black berries, balsamic nuances and spices as well as an expansive flavour - full and clear - this great wine perfectly combines finesse, elegance and softness. SUPERIORE.DE

"In the nose with wild herbal aromas and earthy-mineral notes, undergrowth, walnuts, ash and warm earth. Full-bodied in the mouth with a well-defined body, beautiful substance with savoury nuances, quite long with a salty final." Weinwisser

"This is a wild and earthy red wine with notes of watermelon, walnuts, ash, minerals and earth. It has a medium body and nice substance. Long, savoury and spicy." James Suckling

"The 2019 Etna Rosso Zottorinoto is dark, floral and earthy in the glass, with a mix of grilled herbs, crushed rocks and blackberries making up its bouquet. It shows silky textures and masses of mineral red and black fruits. Hints of cocoa emerge towards the end. It finishes with a layer of fine tannins and a hint of primary concentration, balanced by a touch of residual acidity that maintains a fantastic freshness despite its youthful structure." Vinous

Mazzei's top wine Siepi is not only an outstanding Tuscan wine every year, but also a 6-hectare vineyard in the middle of dense oak forests with an ideal altitude and a unique climate. The sunshine is optimal throughout the day and a constant breeze from the west prevents excessive heat and creates a mild, Mediterranean climate. The oak forests also provide an ideal protective barrier against extreme weather conditions. Rocky soils of marl, limestone and clay from the Pliocene period ensure a special balance of elements in this geological complex.

Siepi's greatest strength every year is its pronounced sense of integration and harmony, and this excellent 2021 vintage is no exception. The bouquet is fresh and lively with lots of wild cherry, spices, wild rose, lilac and lavender. On the palate, it delights with soft fruit and delicate spice and shows an increasingly fluid personality in the glass, gradually revealing a beautiful sequence of background flavours. The 2021 edition is already very elegant, even polished, but Siepi connoisseurs know that it will need at least another five years of careful bottle ageing before this monumental red begins to show its true greatness. SUPERIORE.DE

"Massive, viscous colour. The Siepi 2021 has a youthful aroma of fine, fresh wood, offensive and brash, with fleshy intensity and limited depth. Its actual flavour has not yet really come through. It is rich and melting, round and lush, sweet and wood-accentuated in the mouth. It is less dense in its core flavours and lives more from its melting, lively flow, which asserts itself clearly and straightforwardly." Weinwisser

"A formidable wine with an appealing bouquet of black cherry and vanilla flavours; powerful in the mouth with a lot of density and fullness, but also very nice, tightly woven tannins and invigorating acidity, with an incredibly long finish." Vinum

"Rich, deep dark ruby violet colour. Compact and dense nose, showing notes of redcurrant, blackberry, ripe cherry, fresh herbal notes in the background. Lots of polished, very well-integrated tannins on the palate, smooth and long finish, juicy and fine melting." Falstaff

"The 2021 Siepi opens with sweet fruit flavours of cooked cherry, blackberry jam, cinnamon and nutmeg. This full-bodied wine is supple and very smooth in the mouthfeel, and its flavour profile is rich and all-encompassing. This wine is balanced and seamless, and the 2021 vintage is certainly one of the best editions of Siepi we've seen so far." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 Siepi is impressive. Blue/purple fruit, lavender, spice, menthol and mocha are beautifully balanced. This lush, juicy blend of Sangiovese and Merlot is, as so often, a real charmer. The 2021 is exceptionally elegant and polished, certainly one of the best editions of recent times. Nevertheless, I feel that the Siepi would benefit from longer ageing in wood or in glass, as it is coming to market too early for a wine of its size and potential." Vinous

"Intense blackcurrant on the nose, baked and ripe, so expressive and inviting with little hints of liquorice and tar. Supple, generous, juicy and bright, this 50/50 Sangiovese Merlot is so well crafted and harmonious - rich, broad and full in the mouth, it runs with life and energy and such underlying vigour. You can feel the intensity and sculpting that is evident here. This wine is no wallflower, but it's so neat and beautifully presented. I love the tannins, massive but controlled and a perfect counterpart to the fresh and ripe red and black fruits with black pepper, tar, tobacco and bitter orange as well as soft floral notes. The brightness perfectly matches the depth and complexity delivered by a nuanced glass of wine that has so much to say. I love the tannins and the sense of direction and confidence. It's still in its brooding, flashy, youthful phase with plenty of warmth and spice, but it's a beauty." Decanter

"An opulent yet exciting young red wine with the character of blackberries, violets and black olive skin. Full-bodied. But with so much energy and focus. Lasts for minutes. Best opened after 2028." James Suckling

As every year, the secret star of the house gives the Dominator in Dal-Forno style. Dark and dense, it reveals an intense bouquet with marmalade-like aromas of red and dark fruits, alongside which spices and wood, tobacco and chocolate echo. At the same time, the youthful, stormy taste is an overwhelming demonstration of power. SUPERIORE.DE

"A compact, focused red, this presents pretty violet, medicinal herb and anise notes on the nose as it slowly expands -- flavors that are more subdued at first on the palate. This is supported by dense, plushly textured tannins, flavors of mulled cherry, dark chocolate and amaro, loamy earth and smoke that are slowly revealed, gaining momentum and lingering on the long finish. Give this some air or time in the glass to allow it to shine brightest." Wine Spectator

"Pungent nose of violets, Amarena cherries, dried figs and slightly charred oak. With air, some toffee notes and pressed flowers emerge. Not so much full-bodied as full-bodied, with silky, fine and polished tannins. Still very young and powerful at the moment. Shows exceptional quality. To be tasted from 2024." James Suckling

"The 2017 Valpolicella Superiore Monte Lodoletta reminds me of all the desserts, spices and sweets you experience at Christmas. A range of medicinal cherries, plum sauce, ginger biscuits, cloves, cinnamon and dried roses are captivating. The wine has enormous depth, but at the same time it has fantastic freshness. The brilliant acidity gives it an energy rarely found in Valpolicella, enlivening the crisp red fruits and pretty flowers within. The 2017 finishes dramatically long and perfumed, with sour blackberries, currants and a bitter hint of cocoa. It far exceeds expectations for a Valpolicella, with the power and flavours of an Amarone, but with a vibrancy that allows it to hold its own at the dinner table." Vinous

A wine that is only vinified in the very best years and then presents a breathtaking beauty with each edition. In depth, purity and structure, it is the archetype of a Brunello. It beguiles with a mix of sage, rosemary, tobacco, wild flowers and cloves through to a nuanced and endless finish. It is punchy and seductive at the same time and has great personality. Chapeau! SUPERIORE.DE

"This is a late-release 2015 with extremely attractive blackberry, black-cherry and floral aromas, as well as hints of spices. Full-bodied with wonderfully integrated tannins that are polished yet powerful. Long, persistent finish, showing real purity of fruit. Try after 2023, but already impressive." James Suckling

"The Le Potazzine 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is released a year after most other Riservas hit the market (most of this winery's peers are now selling the 2016 vintage). This pretty wine is open-knit and rich, showing nice textural support. It is redolent of dried cherry, blackberry, light spice, tar and smoke. This special selection of fruit shows elegant results in this hot and sunny vintage." Wine Advocate

"The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva captivates as it slowly blossoms in the glass, but this is a wine that is truly worth waiting for. With each swirl, a bouquet of mentholated cherry, autumnal spice, shaved cedar and Tuscan dust gains amplitude and richness. The textures are undeniably elegant, communicating opulence while also stimulating the senses with salty minerals and an inner smokiness that I find wildly compelling. An intense array of red currants, licorice and savory spice fills the senses and translates directly to the finale, where regal tannins saturate, promising a remarkably long life. Only 3,000 bottles of this beauty were produced." Vinous

The grapes for the "Suolo" Brunello selection come from the vineyard of the same name and from the estate's oldest vines. They are 65 years old and lie at an altitude of 320 metres on soils of clay-limestone marl rich in skeletons and fossils. It is the ideal terroir to fully express the character of the old Sangiovese Grosso clones and gives the wine an acidic, spicy profile. Only part of the vineyard parcels are used for this label. Long ageing in 15-hectolitre Allier oak barrels and a resting period in the bottle complete it and prepare it for the market and the challenge of time. Around 5,000 bottles are bottled only in the best vintages.

The name "Vineyard of the Soil" says it all: opens with warm, earthy notes, the fruit emerges in a second wave with dried raspberries, cassis and dried cherries. The theme of earthiness runs through the entire experience and is also evoked by the powdery dryness of the tannins. There are many flavours lurking in this textured, full-bodied Brunello, including orange, mint and a hint of salty sea air. A very special and highly elegant wine that certainly needs some time in the bottle to gain depth and volume. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling ruby-garnet colour with a brightening rim. Charming and inviting nose of fresh wild raspberries and ripe cherries, along with pomegranate and tobacco. Lots of juicy fruit on the palate, again cherry and raspberry, then opens up with lots of fine-meshed, present tannins, very good tension and a long finish." Falstaff

"This wine will really come into its own with the 2019 vintage. Intoxicatingly fragrant, it offers notes of mint, fennel and tarragon infusing dark cherry and plum. Not big, but lush and expansive, a sense of baked stone underpins the deliciously tart sour cherry centre. Silky, suede-like tannins are graceful in their draw, while the acidity cleanses the mouth and is crisp. An explosion of apricot pits and juicy minerals prolong the finish." Decanter

"The dark Brunello di Montalcino Vigna del Suolo 2019 exudes a hint of cocoa, violet pastille and sweet sage, which complements redcurrants. Like pure velvet, the Brunello di Montalcino Vigna del Suolo slowly spreads across the palate, weighty and youthfully dense, with an abundance of mineral, dark red fruits that swirl over a steadily building wall of fine tannins. The 2019 finishes with enormous length and structure and shows fantastic balance. A hint of residual acidity refreshes the senses and balsamic herbs slowly fade away. This is a Vigna del Suolo that is made to last." Vinous

"The Argiano 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna del Suolo has an elegant, ever-changing bouquet of black fruits and a pronounced mineral signature of dusty slate and gravel. This site with 63-year-old vines is located on the picturesque cypress-lined gravel road that leads to this imposing castello (one of the greatest architectural works of Italian wine). The bouquet unfolds with tobacco leaves, lime leaves, balsamic herbs, exotic spices and a particularly fresh berry fruit that is on the verge of over-ripeness. The fruit tastes sweet, but in a delicate way, and the tannins are elegant with a dryness that is not exaggerated. This is a very nice wine." Wine Advocate

"Plenty of dark fruit flavours of black cherries, blackberries and dried herbs, followed by dried meat and sweetish tobacco notes. Medium-bodied with crisp, fine-grained tannins and strong acidity. Very precise and dense, yet beautifully balanced and savoury. Great ageing potential." James Suckling

"Aromas and flavours of iron, minerals and wild herbs frame the cherry and raspberry fruit in this lean, racy red wine, which is harmonious and full of energy, with a long aftertaste defined by the firm structure and strong acidity, as well as flint and stone elements. This is something special." Wine Spectator

"On the nose precision and extreme cleanliness, hints of wild strawberry and yellow raspberry. With the oxygenation, the tension and the balsamicmentholated part emerge, with a finish wild and of graphite. In the mouth elegance and tension, extremely fine tannins with hints of blood orange and pomegranate. Closure of eucalyptus, extraordinary drinkability." Luca Gardini

The grapes for the "Suolo" Brunello selection come from the vineyard of the same name and from the estate's oldest vines. They lie at an altitude of 320 metres on soils of clay-limestone marl rich in skeletons and fossils. It is the ideal terroir to fully express the character of the old Sangiovese Grosso clones and gives the wine an acidic, spicy profile. Only part of the vineyard parcels are used for this label. Long ageing in 15-hectolitre Allier oak barrels and a resting period in the bottle complete it and prepare it for the market and the challenge of time. Around 5,000 bottles are bottled only in the best vintages.

The wine announces itself with a deep ruby red colour and opens with a seductive bouquet in which ripe cherries and small fruits give way to more complex notes of tobacco, flowers and undergrowth, before fading into spice and citrus peel. The palate is broad, deep and crisp, supported by a rich acidic framework that carries intact fruit and tannins of spectacular finesse. Rich but not too dense, it is assertive, profound and elegant, with an exceptional vitality that promises glorious ageing. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, shiny ruby red colour with a delicately brightening rim. Expressive and clear on the nose of fresh wild strawberries, mint, precious wood, dried tomato, underpinned by light spice and maquis. On the palate with a polished entry and progression, builds up fleshy and juicy, with elegant pressure, profound and elegant, in the final on noble earthy notes, will mature excellently." Falstaff

"The Argiano 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna del Suolo (5,000 bottles) shows good fruit richness with cherry, dried raspberry and plum. The tannins are silky and fine, and the wine envelops the palate with a medium-weight texture and balanced freshness." Wine Advocate

"Argiano is back on track with this 2018 Brunello at an excellent price. Packed with flavour, it shows the vintage well: while the colour is scarce - pale garnet - the aromas are vibrant and enticing with spiced cherry and Mediterranean flowers bursting from the glass. It is medium-bodied and fluid, revealing the warm southern exposure of the vineyards. The tannins are fine and layered, with a chalky texture. Although the winery has released its Vigna del Suolo selection, there will be no Riserva bottling for 2018." Decanter

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna del Suolo is seductive and understated in the glass, showing musky blackcurrant flavours accompanied by hints of sage and clove. It is graceful and refined, yet enveloping, with bright acidity enlivening the red plums and ripe strawberries, while a hint of balsamic spice resonates. The 2018 finishes with grippy tension as the fine tannins penetrate deeply, leaving notes of dried cherry and lavender that slowly fade away. The Vigna del Suolo will need patience to fully unfold and develop its flavours. But it will be worth the wait. This is a beauty." Decanter

"A very fine and polished Brunello with fine, creamy tannins that are polished and very curated. Character of cherry and bark. Medium to full body with ripe tannins. Juicy. Orange peel flavours. Try it after 2025, but it's delicious now." James Suckling

"This supple, clean-lined red grabs your attention with a beam of cherry and blackcurrant flavours, while lacy tannins line the finish. It shows flavours of earth, menthol, white pepper and juicy red berries that are expressive and delicious. Super long finish." Wine Spectator

"An essential part of Ilcine history, a wine that is the result of Bernardino Sani's great zoning work. Multi-faceted on the nose, with notes of wild plum, pepper leaf and star anise. Exciting and flavoursome on the palate, with a fruity finish." Luca Gardini

"A sweet, floral nose welcomes you with a warm embrace of vanilla and cherry before an earthy savoriness surprises you with notes of soil, leather, sun-dried tomato and oregano. The tomatoes sweeten on the palate joined by cherries and chili heat before a saline finish. A wine that defines itself with fruit so alive you could take its pulse, and contoured, seductive tannins." Wine Enthusiast

Giacomo Neri's rather new top Brunello was born with the purchase of a very special vineyard. True to the winery's philosophy of producing wines only from the best terroirs around Montalcino, a small 7-hectare parcel with over 45-year-old vines was acquired a few years ago. This was preceded by over 40 years of friendship with the previous owners, with whom Giacomo's father Giovanni Neri planted the vines and nurtured them over the past decades.

Brunello Giovanni Neri exudes all the outstanding qualities of the raw material and the winemaker's craft. Man and nature unite here in perfect precision and harmony. Its balance is exquisite. Strong cherry and blackberry notes are followed by crushed minerals, liquorice, smoke and slightly fragrant cedar wood notes. The wine spreads evenly and powerfully on the palate, and its flavour intensity can be counted on for many minutes. Giovanni Neri Brunello is wonderfully concentrated and rich, but never too heavy or even too dense. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense, bright ruby colour with a fine garnet sheen. Presents itself with a memorable nose, lots of crisp fruit, blood orange and cherry, some lemon balm. On the palate, fine-meshed tannins that spread out in many layers, builds up over a long time, with very well-developed fruit and a very long finish with full-bodied pressure." Falstaff

"This ripe red wine is bursting with aromas and flavours of plums, cherries, rosehips and minerals, while a light tannin content and lively acidity provide lift. Balanced, pure and long, with a ray of cherry that lingers in the long aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"Wow, this wine steals the show. The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Giovanni Neri is a new addition to the Casanova di Neri portfolio in its second year of existence. It is a tribute to Giacomo Neri's father and represents a stylistic shift to the elegant side of Montalcino. The wine shows a very nuanced bouquet with roasted cherry stones, Luxardo syrup and balsamic herbs. Dark slate and stony minerals merge into a very clean and beautiful earthiness. The tannins are slightly sweeter compared to other wines of this vintage, and there are fragrant tones of old rose and lilac. The balance between tannin and fruit is excellent and I can imagine that this wine will age for a long time." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of cherries, flowers and cedar are followed by a full body with plenty of pure and juicy fruit character. Creamy and savoury with an aftertaste of crushed beans and cherries. The Brunello of today is characterised by purity and perfection of the fruit. The best of an outstanding vintage." James Suckling

"A Brunello of tension and balance, a stylistic masterpiece. The nose is multi-faceted, with hints of blackberry, then blood orange and mint. A balsamic, full, dense and compact bouquet with hints of geranium and clementine peel. The flavour combines elegance and texture, with a return of laurel and a strong salty note on the finish." Luca Gardini

The grapes come from the single vineyard MGA Rabajà in the municipality of Barbaresco. 2019 is a retro vintage, so to speak, as it marks a return for Vietti, who vinified Rabajà back in the 1980s. The soils are calcareous and clayey, with a south/south-west exposure and an altitude of around 235-315 metres above sea level. The average age of the vines is 51 years and they are cultivated according to the Guyot system. Intense garnet red colour. Opulent and delicate on the nose with floral scents of rosehips and violets and ripe black cherry. Amazingly fresh and enveloping for a mature Riserva from the very first sip. The tannins are ripe, soft, silky and wonderfully integrated, giving the wine a great structure and elegance. What completely won us over during the tasting was the almost immeasurable length of the wine, which is still resonating as we write this. Complimenti! SUPERIORE.DE

"This Barbaresco leaps from the glass with aromas of black raspberry jam from the farmer's market, including pips, blue violets, sweet spices and subtle herbal notes. The palate is polished and lush, with tart cherries that stand out, while lively acidity keeps the palate fresh and rounded tannins carry the wine through to the savoury finish." Wine Enthusiast

"Transparent and clear flavours of cherries and berries with some cedar and lavender, which fade into a medium body, with fine and round tannins and a delicious finish. Now very accessible and refined." James Suckling

"The Barbaresco Riserva Rabajà 2019 is a new wine from Vietti. It emerges from the glass with a captivating bouquet reminiscent of crushed flowers, herbs, mint and orange peel. The aromas alone are beguiling. Vibrant and classic in structure, with a wonderful inner sweetness, the 2019 is absolutely irresistible." Vinous

"Bright with strawberry, cherry, rose, wild rosemary and iron aromas and flavors, this red is expressive but also firmly structured, harmonious and elegant, lingering with a complex aftertaste of fruit, mineral and savory elements." Wine Spectator

"Vietti worked at Cru Rabajà in the 1980s and has now returned to produce this inaugural vintage of the portfolio's latest wine. And what a stunning wine it is. The 2019 Barbaresco Riserva Rabajà has lush, well-rounded fruit and a generous disposition of wild mountain blueberries, grenadine and watermelon candy. There are also hints of resin, tar, linseed oil, fern or forest plants. The nose is one thing, but the palate is even more powerful, with very solid tannins, fresh acidity and generous fruit intensity. This Riserva is firing on all cylinders." Wine Advocate

Mazzei's top wine Siepi is not only an outstanding Tuscan wine every year, but also a 6-hectare vineyard in the middle of dense oak forests with an ideal altitude and a unique climate. The sunshine is optimal throughout the day and a constant breeze from the west prevents excessive heat and creates a mild, Mediterranean climate. The oak forests also provide an ideal protective barrier against extreme weather conditions. Rocky soils of marl, limestone and clay from the Pliocene period ensure a special balance of elements in this geological complex.

"The 30th anniversary of Siepi, a unique wine that bears witness to the harmony between the vineyard and its ecosystem, with great benefits for biodiversity, also celebrates our family's ancient bond with this vineyard. This encourages us to look to the future with the courage and awareness of those who have cultivated and respected the land for centuries." Philippo Mazzei

The 2022 Siepi is a stunning wine that appeals to all the senses with just the right amount of complexity. The wine is soft, brooding, velvety and long-lasting. It is made from equal parts Merlot and Sangiovese and both grapes bring their best qualities to the blend. The Sangiovese grape shows a distinct personality with region-specific notes of small berries and spices and it also offers a wonderfully fresh acidity. The Merlot plays a strong role in the background, adding softness, fullness and richness. SUPERIORE.DE

"2022 was a hot and dry year and it seems to have emphasised the Merlot power more than the Sangiovese finesse: wild forest berries, sous bois and spicy plum lead the way, with a saline touch. Grippy and spicy, round and ripe, it's a bit angular at the moment, with a drying finish, but once that oak has settled down it should show us what it's made of." Decanter

"This warm vintage offers plenty of primary fruit with bold cherry as the protagonist. Softer tones of blue flower and grilled rosemary appear at the back. However, the oak spice and cinnamon need time to integrate." Wine Advocate

"The aromas of dark berries, violets and perfume are enchanting. The palate is medium-bodied with ultra-fine tannins that are polished and so elegant and they run the length of the wine. They are rather endless. Very classy and balanced. A merlot and sangiovese blend. Give this a year or two, but it’s already a joy to drink." James Suckling