Wine

Vicorosso from Merlot and Cabernet Franc is a great red. Smells of ripe red fruits, roasted coffee, liquorice and spices. Its medium body offers excellent balance and a long, polished finish. SUPERIORE.DE

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

"Bright light gold colour with a sparkling reflection. Fragrant nose, rich and open, full of meadow herbs, dried banana pieces, plus some peach, then very elegant and polished on the palate, rich and multidimensional, comes in several layers, enormous length, very well done." Falstaff

Castello di Monsanto's Chianti Classico Riserva is a fabulous wine that punches well above its weight. Dark cherry, plum, liquorice, spice, leather, lavender and tobacco run through this wonderfully nuanced and vibrant Riserva. It is surprisingly expressive and open even at a young age and will continue to drink well for over 15 years. Sweet floral notes extend the finish of this medium-bodied, graceful and well-structured wine. Interesting Storage potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"From a terrific vintage, the 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva shows a medium-dark garnet appearance. Like the entry-level Chianti Classico, this Riserva delivers lovely primary fruit intensity. That brightness, with plenty of wild cherry and raspberry, is the calling card of Castello di Monsanto. There is a lot of sweet ripeness with fruit preserves, a hint of earthiness and cinnamon." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva is a wine of pedigree and class. Aromatic, vibrant and delineated, the Riserva captures all the best qualities of the year. Crushed flowers, dark red/purplish fruit, mint, blood orange and pomegranate are some of the many notes that build in the glass. This is a sublime effort." Vinous

"Spiced dark cherries, cassis, ripe plums and touches of cedar and mushrooms on the nose. This is juicy, structured and fine-grained, with a medium to full body and a long, firm finish loaded with fruit." James Suckling

"This luscious, dense red is packed with cherry, blackberry, pomegranate and violet flavors. Its tannins are ripe and refined, while the vibrant acidity keeps everything focused. An iron streak weaves through the long, energetic finish." Wine Spectator

Potenti, a concentrated and single-varietal Cabernet Sauvignon, is full of finesse with a touch of rurality, typical of the wines from this wild and untamed corner of Tuscany. Refined bouquet, rich and dense on the palate, the mineral note closely interwoven with the wood nuances. Potenti will develop into a great wine in a few years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Cabernet Sauvignon signature of sun-warmed blueberries, flowers, also pepper and sandalwood; combines fresh texture with character and a red berry fruit finish." Vinum

"Strong ruby with garnet red nuances. Finely marked nose with fine wood spice and ripe forest berries, underlaid with tobacco notes. The palate is characterised by firm, fine-grained tannin, ripe fruit, and striking freshness, with good balance and decent pressure on the finish." Falstaff

"Aromas of blackcurrants, tobacco leaves and bark with some praline and chocolate orange. Medium-bodied with sleek, well-integrated tannins, supporting layers of fresh dark-berry fruit. Juicy finish." James Suckling

Deep purple-red colour, distinctive bouquet that does not deny the Apulian home of the Susumaniello and enchants us with a stimulating freshness. Hints of ripe black cherries and fine spicy notes on the palate, dense, harmonious, long-lasting and with beautifully integrated tannins. An original, rustic flavour experience! SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense, impenetrable ruby red colour. Aromas of black fruit unfold on the nose, accompanied by hints of cocoa, tobacco and leather. Fresh on the palate, with dense, sweet tannins and a long, fruity finish." Falstaff

40 years after acquiring the Montalcino branch Campogiovanni, the Tuscan flagship winery San Felice, which belongs to the Allianz insurance group, has decided on a further expansion called Bell'Aja. In the Bolgheri locality of Le Sondraie, 6 hectares of vineyards with clayey-sandy soils were selected, where mainly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot were planted over 12 years ago. There are only two wines from this new Bell'Aja appellation, Bolgheri Rosso and Bolgheri Rosso Superiore.

Bright purple in colour, the bouquet is full of dark forest berries. The palate is then full of harmony with a delicate acidity and soft, very enveloping tannins. A warm, flattering red with a profile that fully lives up to its noble origins. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, medium ruby colour with purple hues. Intense on the nose, with notes of blackberries and blueberries, dark chocolate, leather and cedar. Powerful and gripping on the palate, with compact fruit, tightly woven tannins and a lingering finish." Falstaff

"A fruity red wine with aromas and flavours of plums, redcurrants and tobacco. A hint of walnuts. It is medium-bodied, creamy and balanced. Excellent drinkability." James Suckling

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

Dievole's famous Riserva Novecento opens with layers of dark fruit, spices, tar and smoke on the nose. On the palate, there is a terrific depth and hints of earth or crushed black rock. Novecento offers a great texture that is velvety and rich without ever being heavy or sluggish. The spicy finish is long and crisp. SUPERIORE.DE

"A typical sample of Gallo Nero with bright red, almost tart cherries, fresh violets, liquorice and black pepper. Earthy minerality. The palate is firm with chalky tannins, crisp acidity and a medium body. It will develop well for 10 years, but is already ready to drink." James Suckling

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

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

A Pinot Nero from Franz Haas is a textbook expression every year and a benchmark throughout South Tyrol, with bright aromas of blueberries, violets and lavender rising gracefully from the bouquet. This is pure cool climate in the glass. On the palate, it is taut and silky and always beautifully polished and streamlined in a positive sense. This is a beautiful, complex and exceptional Pinot Nero from a master hand. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with cherry-red reflections. Stubborn expression on the nose, reminiscent of ripe wild berries, elderberries, bay leaf and spruce resin. Emphatically juicy on the palate, with precise fruit and tightly woven tannins, animating bitter notes and a lingering finish, still appears somewhat young." Falstaff

"This elegant Pinot Nero is finely meshed, with a fine, raw-silky grain of tannins supporting a refreshing palette of chopped cherries, roasted figs, blood orange peel and wild sage. Long and creamy on the savoury finish." Wine Spectator

"This is a light-coloured, fruit-driven Pinot with fresh plums, cherries and rosehips on the nose. The palate is crisp and medium-bodied. Excellent tension." 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

Barolo Paesi Tuoi was named after Cesare Pavese's 1941 novel "Among Peasants". Dark, bright ruby red colour. Wide, warm aroma of sour cherries, wild berries, leather, rose petals and mint. The expressive flavour is harmoniously engaging with clear fruit of black cherry, star anise and clove, framed by fine-grained tannins. A cleanly vinified, mature Barolo with potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with a slightly brightening rim. Ripe and savoury nose of cherries and plums, underlaid with tobacco leaf. Very fresh on the palate, with some spice, the tannins are still slightly drying on the finish." Falstaff

"On the nose, the wine hints at red berry fruit, suggesting a high-toned and concentrated bouquet, but also hinting at greater depth waiting to be unleashed. The palate is embraced by firm, gripping tannins - an indication of its youth and development potential. A wine that needs time to mature and develop its full range of flavours." Wine Enthusiast

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

Deep ruby red colour, as expected from a good traditionally and organically produced wine. A wonderful, elegant and open-hearted aroma spectrum between sour cherry and nutmeg. Clear and savoury on the palate, beautifully balanced and with plenty of youthful freshness and minerality on the long finish. This medium-bodied Riserva is already drinking well today, but also has enough energy to develop positively in the bottle for at least a handful of years. SUPERIORE.DE

"This is complete and balanced with good fruit concentration, freshness and vibrancy. Red berries, spices and dried orange peel, with a medium to full body, tense acidity and compact but nicely ripened tannins. Lingering finish." James Suckling

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

Capezzana's Trebbiano blossoms in the glass with a sweet floral bouquet of crushed yellow apples, peaches, aniseed, sweet sage and dusty stone. It is round and supple, with a depth of ripe white stone fruit perfectly contrasted by salty minerals and a hint of spice. The fresh acidity provides a nice balance. The finish is long, classically dry and youthfully tense. Already wonderful today, but still needs further bottle ageing to fully develop. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2023 Trebbiano Capezzana is youthfully coy, mixing hints of ginger with wildflowers and lime. It's round and supple with a whiplash of zesty acidity and a saline flourish offsetting nearly oily textures and depths of ripe nectarine. It finishes tense and incredibly long, tapering off with a cheek-puckering lemony concentration. The 2023 is painfully young today but full of potential." Vinous

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