Wine

Rosso Piancarda is intensely flavoured and perfumed, with medicinal cherries and raspberries complemented by dusty roses and sweet cedar wood notes. On the palate, Piancarda turns to the savoury spectrum. Salty and full of savoury minerality, it shows spicy red fruits, a hint of plum and a lively acidity that keeps the expression fresh. The grippy tannins remain until the final, while the notes of sour citrus fruits and tart berries slowly fade away. SUPERIORE.DE

Rich ruby red colour, with a delicate woody note on the nose, which is the result of approx. 45% of the wine being aged for a short time in barriques. Fresh aroma of cherries, dense, pithy flavour with good structure and length. The tannins are still strong, but by no means aggressive. A wine with a strong personality from Antinori's Tenuta di Biserno winery. SUPERIORE.DE

Lots of fullness and personality in the elegant aroma of lush fruit with spicy, toasty accents, notes of cherry, plum, herbs and undergrowth. The flavour is rich in contrast and full-bodied, with well-integrated tannins, well-balanced acidity and a fruity, berry finish. This powerful Morellino Riserva still needs some time to show its best side. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright cherry red with a ruby red centre. Intense aroma of violets, raspberries and strawberries, reminiscent of mandarin mint on the finish. Spans the palate with gentle pressure, showing juicy berry fruit and fine herbal notes, with a beautiful acidity and fine tannins on the final." Falstaff

"Promising raspberry bouquet, fine spice and violet notes; flawlessly built with tightly woven tannins, invigorating acidity, finishes on flavours of forest fruits and spices. With game birds." Vinum

Villa di Capezzana is considered one of the longest-lived wines in Tuscany, with a vertical tasting of 20 vintages dating back to 1937 - none of the vintages showed any signs of fatigue. The wine is fermented spontaneously and matured in large and small wooden barrels, a third of the small wood is renewed every year. Dark ruby red in colour. Black cherries, blackberries, cassis and fine woods dominate the nose. On the palate, the wine is firm, well-structured and has a long finish. Decanting recommended. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, bright ruby red colour. Inviting nose of wax and grated forest fruits, with subtle hints of honey and dried rose petals on the finish. Initially juicy on the palate, with good tension and a slightly salty undertone." Falstaff

"Inviting bouquet with seductive cherry aromas, herbal and sandalwood notes; polished texture, the tannins are fine-grained and in balance with the acidity, combining suppleness and length. To a roast beef." Vinum

"A solid, concentrated and compact red wine. Red berries, warm herbs, earth, mushrooms and baking spices dominate the nose, followed by a full body with fine, slightly chewy tannins. Concentrated and dense, with a solid tannic framework for the fruit and spices on the long, funnel-shaped finish." James Suckling

"This red wine is expressive, with flavours of ripe cherries, raspberries, flowers and wild herbs and a smooth texture. It is well-structured and balanced and leaves a long, fruity, ferruginous and spicy aftertaste with a fine grip on the finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2020 Carmignano Villa di Capezzana opens like a veritable spice box, seducing with an autumnal blend of allspice, clove and star anise before moving on to soaked plums and sage. It is silky and refined, with a supple texture and ripe red and blue fruit flavours that are lapped up by a lively acidity. It leaves a pleasant chewing sensation and finishes with fine-grained tannins and a hint of primary concentration. After a minute, a hint of white pepper lingers. Wow. While the 2020 is richer than usual and easier to savour from the start, it is balanced and will develop long and steadily." Vinous

Impressively structured Chardonnay from the Kreuth estate. The western vineyard produces a very elegant wine that impresses with its fine acidity, creamy structure and elegant interplay of flavours. Bright, radiant straw yellow in colour. Complex and balanced, with an abundance of tropical fruit, underlined by a sensual salty minerality. Long and persistent. SUPERIORE.DE

The anniversary edition of the Novecento opens on the nose with layers of dark fruits, spices, tar and smoke. Then on the palate, there is terrific depth and hints of earth or crushed black rock. Novecento offers a great texture that is velvety and rich without ever seeming heavy or sluggish. Long and crisp on the spicy finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Ripe nose with aromas of maraschino, herbs and leather; the tannins robust, showing character and length, solid finish. Pair with a T-bone steak." Vinum

"The organic Dievole 2019 Chianti Classico Riserva Novecento is slow to open and is neutral on first nose. It does eventually show some dark fruit and wild cherry that is nicely intermingled with spice, leather and tar. There is a warm or savory quality to this wine with autumn leaf and forest floor. The blend is 95% Sangiovese, 3% Canaiolo and 2% Colorino. This release celebrates the 30th vintage of this wine." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 vintage was one of the most balanced in recent years in Chianti Classico. Here, as Antonini confessed, there is no intention to make an approachable wine. The colour shines in its ruby red tinge; the nose is intensely fresh, flowery and slightly reductive at first, before an orange vert emerges from the depths to overlay black cherry and creamy strawberry. The attack is firm, crunchy and extracted. Fierce acidity supports a youthful cherry fruit expression with enough concentration and a thick finish. Quite austere for 2019, but amazing considering its ability to age." Decanter

"A tight, tannic version, this red has a strong grip on its currant, cherry and strawberry fruit. Revealing mineral and tar details, this remains succulent and breezy through the lingering aftertaste; just needs to absorb the tannins." Wine Spectator

"This is extremely aromatic, with strawberry and cherry character and hints of orange peel and flowers. Medium-bodied with very fine tannins that are integrated and polished. Bright acidity at the finish, Made from a mix of parcels from the highest vineyards of Dievole. Beautiful to drink now, but will age will, too." James Suckling

Sparkling yellow-green colour. The elegant, floral-scented Sauvignon Bianco Mantele is irresistible, with beautiful varietal typicity and a pleasingly slender waistline. Fine mineral notes on the palate add playfulness and vibrancy, overall very juicy and fresh. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, shiny golden yellow colour. Pronounced nose of nettle, followed by tropical fruit of pineapple and passion fruit. Velvety on the palate on entry, then with a lot of tension, fresh and fruity until the lingering final." Falstaff

"After aeration with a fine Sauvignon nose, passion fruit, green chilli pepper, cassis leaves, grass clippings, Granny Smith. Finely woven, profound, generous. Minerality on the palate, tweaks the edge of the tongue, vital, taut acidity." Vinum

"Aromas of gooseberries, lemon leaves and subtle tomato leaves. Light- to medium-bodied with weight and texture, yet it has sharp acidity, savory citrus notes and a gently leafy aftertaste." James Suckling

Quercegobbe with sparkling, rich ruby violet. Clear and memorable nose with notes of blackberries, raspberries and ripe cherries. Substantial on the nose, opens with supple tannins. Sweet melting on the finish, fresh and clear, powerful finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Pure varietal Merlot that tones beguilingly of blackberries, undergrowth and herbs; powerful construction, balanced, nice progression on notes of plums, pepper, also bitter almond notes." Vinum

"Dark ruby core with garnet rims. Restrained on the nose with hints of blueberry and forest floor. A little clearer on the palate of cherry and floral notes, striking acidity and fine-grained, somewhat astringent tannins with noticeable wood." Falstaff

"A creamy and delicious red with redcurrant and fresh-herb aromas and flavors. Medium body, fine tannins and a creamy finish. Balanced and delicious now, but better in a year or two, to allow the wood to resolve into the wine." James Suckling

Pleasant bouquet of plums, cedar wood and small red berries. Beautiful primary fruit on the palate, plus some violets, dark chocolate and vanilla, flanked by firm but not astringent tannins. The fruit remains dominant as the wine progresses, leading this clean and extremely flavourful Riserva into a medium-long finish. Good potential. SUPERIORE.DE

Wonderful Pinot Gris Riserva from selected individual vineyards on the valley floor around the village centre of Kurtinig an der Weinstraße. Giatl matures in small wooden barrels for 12 months on the lees, which gives it complexity and finesse. Straw to golden yellow in the glass, with a powerful bouquet of ripe yellow fruit, strong, balanced and slightly salty in flavour. SUPERIORE.DE

The Serpara is elegant, intense and long-lasting every year. Its grapes come from a single vineyard and the wine matures in a combination of new and used French Allier oak barrels. In the glass, it exudes aromas of blackberries, tobacco, sage, thyme and a hint of smoked meat. It has a soft, almost creamy texture and juicy acids that keep the balance, while ripe black fruits and minerals move effortlessly across the palate. The bold tannins make their presence felt on the final, but are more of an accent that frames the experience well, while hints of dark chocolate and balsamic spices slowly fade away. SUPERIORE.DE

"This wine from the cru of the same name is the interpretation of the tension and juiciness of Aglianico. The mouthfeel shows notes of alcoholic cherries, laurel and white pepper. Dense and exciting on the palate, with iodised, chalky tannins and a fruity finish." Luca Gardini

"This wine has aromas of rosemary, dried strawberries, grilled plums, smoked paprika and mocha. It is spicy and flavourful, with a full body and firm, chewy tannins. Long, spicy and smoky finish." James Suckling

Quercegobbe with a sparkling, rich ruby violet colour. Clear and memorable nose with notes of blackberries, raspberries and ripe cherries. Full-bodied attack, opens up with supple tannins. Sweet melting texture on the finish, fresh and clear, powerful finish. SUPERIORE.DE

This archetypal Etna Rosso presents itself with great grace and beautiful varietal typicity. The bouquet has aromas of strawberry and cherry, the palate has medium-bodied fruit, slightly salty notes and spicy nuances in the beautiful final. It shows the specific volcanic character and is made from 100% Nerello Mascalese, which is harvested at 600 to 700 metres above sea level on ashy volcanic soils. SUPERIORE.DE

"Berry bouquet with ripe red fruits such as red cherries, pomegranate, orange peel, plus bloody iodised notes. Dense and elegantly woven on the palate, concentrated mid-palate with small red berries, framed by a peppery, savoury acidity structure, fine tannins and a racy final. Wow, and this is the entry-level red!" Weinwisser

"Tightly wound at the core, with bright, creamy, fleshy black cherry and damson, overlaid with herbs and supported by gently mouthcoating tannins. The quality is evident and it's one of the most appealing Etna Rossos for an immediately pleasurable sip thanks to its contrast between freshness and depth of dark fruits." Decanter

"This energetic red Etna has a well-filled nose of blood orange, violets, geranium, black pepper and assertive pomegranate. Full-bodied with a soft, supple attack, crisp acidity and velvety tannins. It has very good fruit concentration, a crisp finish and good balance. It is drinkable now, but will continue to develop and gain in integration and complexity." James Suckling

Bright yellow with green reflections. Fruity and delicate bouquet of white and yellow flowers. Soft, full-bodied and beautifully harmonious and balanced on the palate. Good structure, perfectly balanced, refreshing acidity, medium-long and fruity finish. SUPERIORE.DE

The "I Giganti" line, with its three wines, represents Contini's top collection. In white, rosé and red, they pay homage to the large statues that were discovered in the 1970s in the archaeological site of Mont'e Prama, just 2 km from the Cabras pond. They were farmers working the fields with their ploughs, bringing to light the precious treasures of the past. These sandstone figures were called "giants" because of their considerable size. They represent brave warriors, symbols of strength and courage.

Spicy and distinctive Tharros Rosso from Nieddera vineyards. Clear ruby red in the glass with a fine lustre. Complex and fine nose with Maraska cherry, liquorice and blackcurrant jelly. Very direct on the palate with well-dosed power, accompanied by fine tannins that lead into an impressive finish. Refined and remarkably independent, very well made. SUPERIORE.DE

New world meets old world. Exciting Sauvignon Bianco with lots of exotic fruits such as mango and lemon, plus a noble spiciness and notes of green tomato leaves, white stone and quince. Full-bodied and creamy on the palate with a tangy, electrifying acidity on the finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Transparent straw yellow with silver reflections. Aromatic nose, gooseberry, grapefruit, elderflower, somewhat reminiscent of drops. Juicy, tangy and salty on the palate, medium-bodied, clear acidity, lively flavour and balanced final." Falstaff

"Subtle flavours of sliced lemons, green melon and hints of stones and dry earth. Medium body with fresh acidity and a crisp and tangy finish. Classic sauvignon blanc. Subtle, bright and clear." James Suckling

Alto, a powerful, voluminous Sangiovese, delights with a deep Maremma-style bouquet. The taste is fully loaded with aromas of dark red cherries and spicy notes. Silky tannins, structured and long, very true. SUPERIORE.DE

High-quality Rosato Spumante made from 100% Pinot Nero. Old pink, almost onion-coloured and with interesting copper reflections. Fine perlage and a fine, creamy foam. The bouquet has a delicate aroma of roses, grapefruit, small red fruits and a hint of yeast. Dry, full, fresh and elegant on the palate. Hints of blackcurrants and wild strawberries, then a consistent tang and a beguiling silkiness. A great alternative to the famous neighbouring region of Franciacorta and a real insider tip for Pinot Noir sparkling lovers. SUPERIORE.DE

"A pale sparkling rosé that has aromas of pomegranate, strawberry and apple pastry. It’s medium-bodied, silky and balanced with fine bubbles and a dry finish." James Suckling

Mimmo is a triumvirate of the wonderful autochthonous grape varieties Nebbiolo, Vespolina and Croatina from vines up to 100 years old on Montalbano and Santuario porphyry soils at an altitude of 500 metres. The Nebbiolo parcels come from the same vineyards as the cult wine Boca and are harvested and processed according to the same quality principles. The division between Boca and Mimmo is made by tasting after two years of ageing in large wooden barrels.

Some lots from the estate's own vineyards in the Boca DOC ripen a little earlier than others, without losing their original character. Together with 30% Croatina, the final result is Mimmo, named after an unforgettable person who has helped to raise the quality level of the Le Piane winery to what it is today. With his approachable manner, he opens the door to the more complex Boca at a more affordable price.

Fine, floral bouquet. Great and precise fruit on the palate. Powerful tannins envelop a core of bright red fruits, tobacco, crushed flowers and liquorice. The flavours and supple texture round off beautifully on the deep finish with well-dosed pressure. It is rightly described as the younger brother of the Boca and is a great choice for drinking over the next five years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Light carmine red colour. Pretty, with red fruit and citrus flavours. Wild, herbal and inviting. Excellent depth of cherry fruit, soft tannins, excellent balance and delicious length." Jancis Robinson

"The 2020 Mimmo, is a little more generous than the 2019 and easier to savour in its youth. Juicy dark red cherry, sage, menthol, liquorice and herbs are beautifully enhanced in a wine that combines fruit intensity with structure." Vinous

Castellares dessert wine matures for five long years in chestnut wood caratelli, with just 3,500 bottles going on sale each year. Deep honey yellow in colour. The bouquet is reminiscent of wild porcini mushrooms, candied fruit with honey and caramel. Seductive and soft on the palate, the well-developed acidity not only ensures a wonderfully fresh drinking flow, but also gives this fine wine a great future. SUPERIORE.DE

"An intense wine with a lively character. Aromas of varnish, glue, apricots, raisins, geraniums and roses. Medium-bodied with crisp acidity on the palate and a tight, lengthy finish." James Suckling

"Herbal, nutty and iodine aromas give way to flavours of caramel, brown butter, dried figs and orange peel. Lean and lively, with a long finish interspersed with caramel and toasted walnuts." Wine Spectator

"The Vin Santo del Chianti Classico 2018 is a prime example of finesse and restraint. Notes of almonds, orange peel, spices, tangerine peel and rose water are beautifully emphasised. The residual sugar is a very modest 90 grams per Liters, making this moderately sweet Vin Santo one of the drier versions that harvestare likely to encounter." Vinous

Fresh, wonderfully floral bouquet, fine perlage on the palate and a strong yet creamy texture. The harmoniously integrated acidity forms the fresh basis for the complex flavour. SUPERIORE.DE

"Delicate old rose colour with a fine perlage. Delicate on the nose, with fine cherry, some stone fruit, white flowers and a touch of graphite. Spreads wide on the palate, present and precise, with beautiful tension and a long finish." Falstaff

A Lambrusco with almost zero (!) grams of residual sweetness seems like an insurmountable contradiction. But far from it, the Lambrusco benchmark Cantina della Volta delivers a sparkling wine here that can keep up with the best rosé champagnes of the noble region of France.

Delicate pale pink with an impressively fine perlage in the glass. In addition to the classics raspberry and wild strawberry, the bouquet opens with wonderfully floral notes that make it seem downright lovely despite its lack of sugar. On the palate, then, of indescribable finesse, creaminess and "dry sweetness", which makes us refill without much hesitation and draws us fully into the glass. La Prima Volta is a spumante with just the right balance of class, drinkability and mineral freshness, just as we would like to enjoy a sparkling wine today and tomorrow. Never too heavy, but still with an irresistible depth and far from any arbitrariness. SUPERIORE.DE