Wines from Tuscany | Chianti

A study commissioned by Francesco Ricasoli has shown that there are 19 different types of soil on Brolio. This made it possible to precisely define the sites that are particularly good for Merlot, from which wines with a unique structure and unmistakable flavour emerge. With the 2018 vintage, Francesco Ricasoli is now presenting the "new" Casalferro, whose grapes come from the three different vineyards Vigna Casalferro, Vigna Pecchierino and Vigna Sodacci. The production volume has been drastically reduced, but the result is impressive!

A Tuscan Merlot as it is written in the book. On the nose, complex aromas of dark red fruit, delicate cedar wood, leather, very spicy. Initially taut and dense on the palate, it opens up as it progresses and expands with impressive elegance. The interplay between bouquet and complexity on the palate is perfectly balanced and its impressive size is already unmistakable. This Merlot will have a great future. SUPERIORE.DE

"Pure Merlot from (for the first time) three selected vineyards that are particularly suitable for the variety and a hit right from the start: complex nose with intriguing notes of blackcurrant, sandalwood, tobacco and pepper; harmony on the palate, which increases in fullness and density with aeration and yet retains its elegance." Vinum

"Noble, bright ruby red colour. The nose is barrel-spicy and reminiscent of precious woods, plum, blackberry, peppery-malty tones in the finish. Very fresh on the palate with crisp acidity, without missing its body, stretches out nicely, polished and with lots of juice, keeps coming back, put it down, will be a long-distance runner." Falstaff

"The 2018 Casalferro, Brolio's (Merlot) is a powerful, brooding wine, packed with dark fruit, espresso, dried herbs, menthol, liquorice, incense and cloves. This juicy, intensely flavoured red wine delivers a lot of impact, that much is clear." Vinous

"The secret of Casalferro is the fruit, which comes from different locations, including one that is 500 metres above sea level. It delivers vertical power and intensity with dark fruits, spices and dried mint. This wine is already drinking beautifully." Wine Advocate

"A very precise and beautiful Merlot with violets, spices and blackcurrants. Extremely perfumed. Medium-bodied with ultra-fine tannins and a long, polished finish that shows finesse and complexity. Delicious to drink now, but will get even better with age." James Suckling

"Beautiful intense ruby color, on the nose intense aromas of blueberry, currant and balsamic herbs. The taste is broad, elegant and of spectacular cleaning. Silky tannins, excellent drinkability." Luca Gardini

Badia a Passignano is always one of the many highlights in the Antinori range and is probably the estate's most refined and elegant Sangiovese. Its character is medium-bodied and supple, but with plenty of fruit intensity, which is typical of the vineyard of the same name. It skilfully strikes a balance between richness and finesse, captivating from the very first sip. Lavender, mint, blue-purple fruit and liquorice are beautifully brought out. It is a very traditional and noble expression of the Tuscan grape that is hard to resist. SUPERIORE.DE

"Starts with a lot of esprit on aromas of small red berries, also violet notes; the attack is fresh and juicy, the tannins fine-grained, the finish on notes of fresh stone fruit. Convinces with its polish." Vinum

"Bright ruby red with a violet tinge. Intense, dense nose, lots of fruit, plum, cherry and blackberry, backed by balsamic notes and fresh Mediterranean herbs. Lots of juice on the palate, harmonious, round, acidity and tannins well integrated, builds up pressure towards the end via tannin structure, long finish." Falstaff

"The 2020 is clean, polite and rather glossy. Classic red cherry and fresh garden herbs become saturated with vanilla. Supple tannins build up giving a pliant frame to sweet ripe fruit tinged with cedar and clove. Warm, soft and already approachable, this will give maximum pleasure over the next five years." Decanter

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Badia a Passignano 2020 shows an evolution towards a more refined style, even in the context of this wine, which is always a powerhouse. Blue and purple-coloured fruit, lavender, menthol, spices and liquorice are well developed. It is less powerful than in most years, and that is a good thing. The direction the wine is taking is promising." Vinous

"This wine is really velvety and open with a flattering texture that tantalises with every sip. Medium-bodied with marvellous brightness and complexity. It's so hard not to drink it now. So why wait, but it will age beautifully." James Suckling

"The nose balances fruit aromas of strawberry, cherry and raspberry with weightier, savory notes of soil, graphite and dark chocolate. The cohesive, equally balanced palate brings more berries and chocolate, creating a classic, measured, self-assured Chianti." Wine Enthusiast

"Laced with pure flavors of cherry and raspberry and shaded by a spicy oak element, this bright, balanced red is elegant yet reveals fine intensity. Light tannins line the lingering finish as iron and tobacco notes join in." Wine Spectator

The top wine from the winery of the same name presents itself in an exemplary manner and as a kind of reference for many other so-called Super Tuscans in the region. Deep ruby red in colour with light red reflections. Dark fruit, spices, herbs, some leather and a fine tarry note on the nose. The flavours then unfold powerfully and concentrated on the palate, yet it glides velvety with a wonderfully balanced acid-tannin ratio into a rich, well-proportioned and long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful attack with notes of forest fruits and spices; combines character with elegance, the tannins are fine-grained and interact with the acidity, with a polished final and length." Vinum

"On the nose, sour cherries and blackberries roll around in earth and wild herbs, then spread out on the palate over flavours of vanilla, dark chocolate and espresso. Lively acidity and penetrating spiciness emphasise the earthy saltiness that Il Borro expresses in a unique way. Lush but refined." Wine Enthusiast

"The Il Borro 2019 Il Borro shows very good definition of each of its components. The Syrah brings freshness and lift to the bouquet. The Merlot is aged in botte grande to bring out an authentic taste of the variety with earth and soil. The Cabernet Sauvignon gives firmness and structure. Bigger oak casks are used to help mitigate the alcohol content that, in the case of this wine, comes in at 15%." Wine Advocate

"Fresh and floral with aromas of black cherry and lavender, leading to a medium body with well-integrated tannins that spread nicely across the palate. It becomes silky and beautiful. A hint of smoke and spice at the end. Crisp on the finish." James Suckling

This red wine in Riserva quality is dedicated to Bettino Ricasoli, who wrote down the grape variety mix of today's Chianti back in 1872. But he was much more than that: twice Prime Minister of the united Italy (1861 and 1866), founder of the daily newspaper "La Nazione", agricultural researcher and "father" of the first Chianti product specification. The creation of this wine interprets his tireless determination to create an independent Chianti style that is both traditional and contemporary to this day.

Chianti Classico Brolio Bettino captivates with a hauntingruby red colour. The intense and inviting aroma of dark fruit is underpinned with fine balsamic notes. The refined flavour is flawless and polished with well-proportioned acidity and perfectly integrated tannins, powerful and long. SUPERIORE.DE

"The very reliable Classico of the house, in this edition in big dust, from Sangiovese in purity. Notes of red cherries, a hint of eucalyptus and cinnamon, with a touch of liquorice powder. Iodised on the palate, with tannins perfectly integrated into the body and a final emergence of cloves and plums." Luca Gardini

This impressive red comes from the single vineyard "Vitticciana", which was created by the "Godfather of Carmignano" Ugo Contini Bonacossi especially for a pure Sangiovese wine due to its perfect orientation. It is only produced in the best years, when it presents itself as a multi-layered wine with fine fruit and fine-grained tannins. After a few years of ageing in the bottle, it can easily hold its own with some of the best Brunello di Montalcino. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, medium ruby red with a slightly brightening rim. Red sour cherries and pickled plums on the nose, with some verbena and spice in the background. Velvety tannins on the palate, well-balanced, still a little young on the final." Falstaff

"A hint of floral and spicy notes, with beautiful, pure fruit underneath. Very well-managed tannins and a long finish." Decanter

"A hint of dusty spices and pencil shavings accompany the ripe cherry and plum fruit flavours. Juicy and very lively on the palate with medium to full body and firm, metallic tannins that are firmly attached to the finish. Needs time." James Suckling

"The 2018 Ugo Contini Bonacossi, a varietal Sangiovese, evolves in the glass with a rich blend of cherry and plum sauce, accentuated and lifted by hints of sage and sweet mint. This is velvety smooth yet full of zesty energy, with a core of nervous acidity that enlivens its sour red and black berry fruits. The 2018 finishes long and staining yet light on its feet, leaving edgy tannins to resonate as the cheeks pucker with youthful tension. I expect the 2018 to evolve sooner than bigger vintages, but with that said, it is no less pleasurable." Vinous

From the fresh marcs of the Cuvée Casalferro, about 2,000 Liters of this crystal-clear grappa of great complexity are produced. Fresh, vinous aroma with hints of red berries, full-bodied taste with elegant, dry notes of jam, wonderfully harmonious and long-lasting. SUPERIORE.DE

Here comes the new top Gran Selezione from San Felice: intense ruby red in colour, with broad and persistent aromas on the nose. Notes of violets and blackcurrants mingle with a sweet spiciness of tobacco and liquorice. Full-bodied, supple, well-structured wine, characterised by ripe and juicy tannins that harmonise with the acidic component. SUPERIORE.DE

"A concentrated red wine with intense flavours of cherry, raspberry, pomegranate, iron and wild herbs, which is also fluid, has light notes of new oak and ends with a salty finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2021 Gran Selezione La Pieve is a new wine in this range, replacing the Il Grigio Gran Selezione. It shows good energy and vigour, but is also still together in the bottle. Pomegranate, blood orange, spices and rose petals open up with a little persuasion. Clean mineral undertones prolong the finish. All it needs is time to develop better. It has a lot of potential." Vinous

"The 2021 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione La Pieve is a concentrated expression of Sangiovese with more pronounced oak tones of spice and sweet smoke. This lovely Tuscan red wine offers greater fruit richness and richness compared to the estate's Chianti Classico Borgo. This added intensity gives this wine the scope to be paired with grilled meats. The wine finishes with a sweetness that comes from both the oak and the ripeness of the fruit. This vintage offers remarkable balance and elegance." Wine Advocate

"This is a very attractive, quite elegant Chianti, polished and even on the palate. It offers notes of cherries, raspberries, orange peel, cured meat and toasted almonds. Medium to full-bodied with very fine, juicy and polished tannins." James Suckling

The top wine from the winery of the same name presents itself in an exemplary manner and as a kind of reference for many other so-called Super Tuscans in the region. Deep ruby red in colour with light red reflections. Dark fruit, spices, herbs, some leather and a fine tarry note on the nose. The flavours then unfold powerfully and concentrated on the palate, yet it glides velvety with a wonderfully balanced acid-tannin ratio into a rich, well-proportioned and long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby colour with purple nuances. Dark and spicy nose of pipe tobacco, ebony, dark plum, also slightly balsamic. Dense and soft on the palate with dark chocolate, plums and rosemary, powerful and even, long." Falstaff

"Although lush and concentrated, this red wine is also light on its feet. Flavours of plum, blackberry, boysenberry and fruitcake abound, accented by notes of iron and spice, with a hint of wild herbs. Firm tannins line the finish, which nevertheless displays a fine harmony and a long-lasting aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"The organic wine Il Borro 2020 is a powerful Bordeaux blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. The wine shows a lot of oak, which is noticeable as roasted spices, coconut or buttered almonds. There is a distant note of dried dill, which disappears in the context of the big, ripe black fruit at the core. You get a lot of richness and fruit weight from a hot vintage." Wine Advocate

"Initially intensely spicy, with topsoil, graphite, leather, then fresh and floral with crushed sage and lavender, before wild cherry and wild strawberry emerge. On the palate, the black cherry notes are generous and bright, but with deep, brooding earth tones for contrast. The tannins are refined but tensile like good armour, and a warm but invigorating salinity runs through a long finish." Wine Enthusiast

"This is a round and quite juicy young wine with notes of blackberries, chocolate and grilled meat. Full and complex with very fine tannins that are well integrated and a bright finish. Lively on the finish." James Suckling

Ghiaie della Furba means "pebbles of the Furba stream" and there is a reason for this, as the vines for this wine grow on the river pebbles on the banks of this stream. It is one of the very first "Supertuscans". After an hour in the carafe, this extremely complex red reveals wonderfully clear, dark fruit, blackberries and cassis, as well as coffee notes, dark chocolate and spices. Its very good structure and personality are impressive. It is already very accessible today (with aeration), but still hides its great potential for the next decade. SUPERIORE.DE

"Nose dominated by Cabernet Franc with notes of blackberries, undergrowth, eucalyptus; then full-bodied with pithy tannins, carried by the acidity, the final dark berry-spicy and long." Vinum

"Complex combination of oak, dried herbs, fresh pomegranate and blackberries together with graphite and baking spice, combined with earthy undertones." Decanter

"Notes of crushed dark berries, dark chocolate, spices and dried herbs. Also some graphite. So bright and lively, concentrated and juicy dark fruit flavours, yet fresh and harmonious. Medium to full body. The tannins are well developed, firm but polished and unobtrusive. Long finish." James Suckling

"The Ghiaie della Furba 2020 opens with a mentholated freshness that combines minty herbs, spiced orange peel and redcurrants. It envelops the palate with a texture of pure silk and quickly gains grip with a core of tart red berries and acidic citrus, while the angular tannins pinch the cheeks. It finishes with admirable length, structure and concentration, leaving a pleasantly bitter aftertaste as notes of cedar and savoury herbal notes slowly fade. The 2020 needs time, and lots of it. Ghiaie della Furba is a blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Syrah and 25% Merlot." Vinous

"The nose is reminiscent of a garden after a storm, where a fresh, floral note mingles with the stony character of the still humid air. On the palate, this stony element persists, while a hint of pepper, a touch of astringent red fruit and lively acidity sparkle over grippy, persistent tannins." Wine Enthusiast

Grospoli comes from the vineyard of the same name on ancient terraces, cultivated in the archaic form of the Lamolian alberello. The sandy soils of the Chianti massif, the constant exposure to the wind and the pure light create the ideal conditions for a lyrical and enchanting wine.

Bright ruby red. Impressive bouquet of violets and iris overlapping with notes of small red and black berries, aromatic herbs and sweet spices. On the palate, powerful and of excellent structure, very stimulating also its freshness and spiciness, which spreads into the long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Charismatic bouquet of cherries, blossoms and leather; juicy on the palate, vivid acidity that also enlivens the final, notes of red berries on the finish that round off the performance. Shows elegance." Vinum

"Rich ruby red. In the nose first after butter biscuits, then after juicy heart cherries, reminiscent of spruce honey, in the reverberation after raspberries and dried rose petal. On the palate juicy, radiant, shows great nerve in the course, long and with pressure, currently still young, will settle down very well." Falstaff

"A thoroughly delicious Chianti Classico with aromas and flavours of plums, bark and light chocolate. Medium-bodied with round, flattering tannins and a juicy finish. It's all about softness here." James Suckling

"This is a new submission from Lamole di Lamole, located in the mountains behind Greve in Chianti. The 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna Grospoli is a certified organic Sangiovese that shows medium-bodied density, lovely freshness and consistency. Sourced from a single vineyard, this wine shows clarity and straightforwardness with concentrated aromas of strawberries, ripe raspberries and mineral notes." Wine Advocate

"A pure Sangiovese with notes of black raspberries, then marjoram and carob. The mouthfeel is juicy, with hints of officinal and undergrowth, dense and crisp." Luca Gardini

The dark, seductive Cabernet Franc Poggio de' Colli takes its time in the glass and slowly awakens with a blend of redcurrants, peppery roses, exotic curries and a slight hint of musk that lends it gravitas. Velvety soft yet refined. Aristocratic and cool on the palate, with a powerful wave of tart raspberry fruit that feeds the palate with savoury spices and mineral notes. Leaves a layer of fine tannins and a hint of berry concentration on the final, which tapers off savoury, long and perfectly balanced. A radiant wine that will only reveal its full beauty in a few years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Long before Franc became modern, this was already a single-varietal: nose of eucalyptus and blackcurrants, also undergrowth and fine spice; pithy in the mouth, the tannins robust, lots of fruit and herbal notes on the finish." Vinum

"Bright, rich ruby red with a slightly brightening rim. On the nose, cassis, ripe blackberries and rich plums, with a leathery background and forest floor flavour. Well-integrated tannins on the palate, juicy, with precise fruit and a long, elegant final." Falstaff

"The 2021 Poggio de Colli is breathtaking. It is consistently peppery and floral, with masses of crushed strawberries and raspberries, flavoured with tangerine peel. It impresses with its wiry texture, balanced by tantalising acidity. A core of tart wild berries unfolds on the palate, underscored by salty minerals and a hint of citrus. Fine-grained tannins emerge on the finish, while the 2021 finishes savoury yet fresh, leaving the mouth watering despite its structure and intensity. This is a mature vintage for the Poggio de Colli, but nevertheless a marvellous Cabernet Franc that will pay off in the cellar." Vinous

Complex bouquet of ripe fruit, sage and tobacco flavours. Dense and firm on the palate with savoury tannins, very well structured and of outstanding quality and purity, long and powerful on the finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"A blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Franc, the 2020 Haiku shows an inky dark appearance with black fruit aromas, dark granite, spice and iron ore. The 2020 vintage reveals an especially dark core of ripe fruit. The primary aromas are surrounded by spice, tarry smoke and leather. This edition is full-bodied and generous in only a manner 2020 can manage." Wine Advocate

"It is a herbal red, intense and with wonderfully zesty acidity. Black and red fruits are accompanied by flecks of blood orange and chocolate, while the soft tannins lend a plush mouthfeel – yet it remains vertical and fresh with a spicy finish. Delicious." Decanter

"This is really intense and energetic with black berries, black cherries and black earth with some black truffle and orange peel. It's medium- to full-bodied with chewy tannins and a long and flavorful finish. Already impressive for a young wine but needs two or three years to soften." James Suckling

"The 2020 Haiku is once again impressive. Dark, explosive and layered, the 2020 delivers the goods. It's a wine that offers a mix of regional character with an international flair. One of the more expressive wines in the range, Haiku shows the more exuberant side of the year off in spades. Time in the glass releases the Franc aromatics very nicely." Vinous

Francesco Ricasoli, the likeable and ambitious owner of Castello di Brolio, brings out elegance and finesse as well as a wonderful depth of fruit in his wines. Rocca Guicciarda Riserva is a soft, silky wine. Dark ruby, rich, open bouquet of cherry and pomegranate, plus a fine almond and tobacco note. A wine whose juiciness makes it a pleasure to drink early on, but whose complexity of flavour increases enormously as it matures. SUPERIORE.DE

"Plenty of sweet plums on the nose with orange peel. It’s full-bodied with juicy ripe fruit and creamy tannins. Some savory, earth and meaty character in the aftertaste." James Suckling

Vigorello was created back in 1968 at the beginning of the Super Tuscan movement. It is a powerful yet refined wine that bursts from the glass with unadulterated tones of black fruit, liquorice, rose and dried lavender, Mediterranean herbs and a sweet hint of vanilla. The balance and structure are outstanding and it will develop even more complexity over time. SUPERIORE.DE

"The nose mixes juicy plums and violets with dustier aromas of pepper and mocha. Those notes all continue onto the palate, where bright acidity spotlights the fruit and flowers, and chalky tannins underline the more savory flavors on the long and luxurious finish." Wine Enthusiast

"Aromas of black cherries and currants with licorice, walnut and dried leaves. Medium- to full-bodied with fine, polished tannins and bright acidity. Toned and focused with a fresh, juicy fruit character and firm, flavorful finish." James Suckling

"The 2019 Vigorello, San Felice's Pugnitello, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot blend is terrific. I especially admire the interplay of dense fruit and energy. Plum, pomegranate, mocha, new leather, spice and dried herbs all build in a sensual, beautifully layered red that delivers the goods." Vinous

"The San Felice 2019 Vigorello is another hit from this leading winery in Castelnuovo Berardenga. The wine reveals an inky dark appearance and a profound bouquet that goes beyond the standard black cherry and spice. This offering also brings on pretty tones of cola, crushed flower, grilled rosemary and sweet crème de cassis. There is freshness and grippy tannins to close. Production is only 6,000 bottles." Wine Advocate

Bianco Trinoro is made from 100% Semillon from a tiny sandy plot in the highest areas of the Trinoro vineyard. The plot is located at around 600 metres above sea level and covers approximately 5,000 square metres. The vineyard was partially planted in 2001 and completed in 2006 with vines from Bordeaux; here, as elsewhere on the estate, the vines are planted close together, one metre apart, in the Bordeaux style. Very aromatic with ripe, fruity notes balanced by a lovely freshness and acidity, great length and very good ageing potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"An exciting white wine from the Semillon production with apple slices, lime and light mango. Somewhat nutty on the finish. Medium to full body. Flavoursome. Fruity." James Suckling

"The Tenuta di Trinoro 2021 Bianco di Trinoro, made from Semillon in cement and stainless steel, opens with a very pale golden colour and crisp citrus aromas that are both tart and acidic at this young age. The wine is endowed with minerality, grapefruit, pear and quince. This wine is characterised by a crisp and structured note. Only 1,700 bottles were produced." Wine Advocate

Coniale, a pure Cabernet Sauvignon, is an elegant and expressive wine. Smells pleasantly of black fruits, spices and tobacco, presents itself dense and wide on the palate, with mineral tones of flint and granite, firmly structured and well defined until the long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Aromas of blackberries, mushrooms, mocha, cedar and spice box. It's full-bodied with firm, polished tannins. Tight and structured with a rich, zesty and spiced finish." James Suckling

"This red features ripe cherry, currant, loam, Tuscan scrub and bitter almond flavors, with a mineral underpinning. Firm and taut, with a beam of acidity driving the lingering finish. Balanced in a compact way, this should unwind in a year or two." Wine Spectator

"The 2017 Coniale, 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, is a gorgeous wine that marries varietal character with a distinctly Chianti Classico profile of acid, tannin and overall structure. This decidedly Tuscan Cabernet has so much to offer, starting with its expansive aromatics and beautifully layered fruit. Dark cherry, cedar, tobacco, menthol and licorice lead into the firm, structured finish." Vinous

In 2012, Carlo Franchetti began producing wines from Pinot Noir grapes grown on the hillsides around San Casciano Bagni. The following year saw the creation of Sancaba, the first collaboration with his cousin, which aimed to emphasise the richness, depth and uniqueness of this grape variety in this particular terroir. In 2014, the two cousins merged their wineries and founded Vini Franchetti. Sadly, Andrea Franchetti passed away in 2021, a wine visionary who leaves a big gap. However, his two very different wine projects, one at Tenuta di Trinoro and the other called Passopisciaro on the slopes of Mount Etna, have one thing in common: bringing the characteristics of the vintage, the specificity of the terroir and the full potential of the grape variety into the glass. His wines are intuitive and poetic and always express exactly what his philosophy and vision of wine and life was.

Sancaba is undoubtedly a champion of great character and elegance, characterised by the pronounced precision of the fruit. It is made from grapes grown on the hills around San Casciano dei Bagni at an altitude of 650 metres, which are characterised by large temperature fluctuations between day and night. It pampers the nose with intense and fascinating aromas of cherries, red fruits, spicy tones, citrus nuances and mineral notes. On the palate, it is structured, silky, with an incisive freshness and a very long finish with mineral iodine tones. The almost never-ending finish with fruity notes deserves our applause! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red colour. The nose is clearly reminiscent of raspberry, fine precious wood, dried red flowers, with a fine scent of elderberry and rosehip, inviting and fine. Fresh and juicy on the palate, with pithy tannins and radiant fruit, shows beautiful drinking flow, with fine smoky notes, again juicy on the final." Falstaff

In 2012, Carlo Franchetti began producing wines from Pinot Noir grapes grown on the hillsides around San Casciano Bagni. The following year saw the creation of Sancaba, the first collaboration with his cousin, which aimed to emphasise the richness, depth and uniqueness of this grape variety in this particular terroir. In 2014, the two cousins merged their wineries and founded Vini Franchetti. Sadly, Andrea Franchetti passed away in 2021, a wine visionary who leaves a big gap. However, his two very different wine projects, one at Tenuta di Trinoro and the other called Passopisciaro on the slopes of Mount Etna, have one thing in common: bringing the characteristics of the vintage, the specificity of the terroir and the full potential of the grape variety into the glass. His wines are intuitive and poetic and always emphasise exactly what his philosophy and vision of wine and life was.

Sancaba is undoubtedly a champion of great character and elegance, characterised by the pronounced precision of the fruit. It is made from grapes grown on the hills around San Casciano dei Bagni at an altitude of 650 metres, which are characterised by large temperature fluctuations between day and night. It pampers the nose with intense and fascinating aromas of cherries, red fruits, spicy tones, citrus nuances and mineral notes. On the palate, it is structured, silky, with an incisive freshness and a very long finish with mineral iodine tones. The almost never-ending finish with fruity notes deserves our applause! SUPERIORE.DE

A study commissioned by Francesco Ricasoli has shown that there are 19 different types of soil on Brolio. This made it possible to precisely define the sites that are particularly good for Merlot, from which wines with a unique structure and unmistakable flavour are produced. With the 2018 vintage, Francesco Ricasoli is now presenting the "new" Casalferro, whose grapes come from the three different vineyards Vigna Casalferro, Vigna Pecchierino and Vigna Sodacci. Although the production volume has been drastically reduced, the result is impressive!

A Tuscan Merlot as it is written in the book. On the nose, complex aromas of dark red fruit, delicate cedar wood, leather, very spicy. Initially taut and dense on the palate, it opens up as it progresses and expands with impressive elegance. The interplay between bouquet and complexity on the palate is perfectly balanced and its impressive size is already unmistakable. This Merlot will have a great future. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich ruby red with a garnet-red rim. Fresh sour cherries and plums on the nose, with violets and a touch of coriander in the background. Fruity and juicy on the palate, with well-integrated tannins and a long final." Falstaff

"A rich, dark expression of Merlot, this red walks the fine line between austerity and generosity, with the latter gaining prominence over the course of the fine finish. Dense, with the tight texture working in tandem with black cherry, blackberry, iron and spice flavours." Wine Spectator

"The Barone Ricasoli 2019 Casalferro showcases its potential in a classic vintage. The DNA of the wine, which is made exclusively from Merlot, is characterised by the grape variety, but the terroir also plays a major role in this presentation. You know you're drinking a wine from Tuscany thanks to a delicate bundle of flavours that includes wild cherry, violet fruit, violets and spices. This wine gives an Italian personality to a French grape variety." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Casalferro is magnificent. Ripe dark cherry and plum fruit, liquorice, spice, new leather, menthol and mocha are combined in a generous, lush Merlot that offers much of the vibrancy of a Chianti Classico." Vinous

"Blueberry, plum and red and black berry scents mingle with wildflowers, spices and a hint of roasted coffee beans. Stony and sapid in the mouth, it's all about elegance with beautiful cool blue fruits accompanied by a touch of creaminess on the mid-palate, then a long, super-fresh and poised finish." Decanter

"Super flavours of fresh violets, black olives, crushed raspberries and blackberries. Also a hint of dried flowers. Full-bodied but compact and polished, with superbly crafted tannins that compress the palate and give it a velvety texture. Taut and concentrated. The most precise and refined Casalferro ever. It needs at least three or four years to show what it's made of, but it has great potential. Best from 2026 onwards." James Suckling

"Produced for the first time not only with the best grapes from the vineyard of the same name, but also with contributions from the Pecchierino and Sodacci vineyards, this is a pure Merlot of stature with intense aromas of blueberries, currants and balsamic herbs on the nose. The flavour is elegant and spectacularly clean. Salty and spicy tannins, excellent drinkability." Luca Gardini

Vigna San Marcellino Gran Selezione is both youthfully fresh and ripe and complexly muscular. It contains a healthy dose of the deeply coloured Pugnitello grape, and on the nose liquorice, tarragon and broom mingle with lush plum and subtle roasted aromas that are highly seductive in their complexity. Deep, taut and lively on the palate, loaded with black cherry and rich, velvety tannins. The texture is silky, while subtle chalky notes and a salty minerality give it plenty of energy and lead it into a juicy, refreshing finish. Vigna San Marcellino is a convincing wine with enormous ageing potential every year. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, intense ruby red colour. Clearly sweet blood orange, sour cherries and black pepper on the nose, followed by an aroma of dark chocolate. Juicy, ripe cherry fruit on the palate, pleasant acidity with soft tannins, elegant and long finish." Falstaff

"Lots of Sangiovese with some Pugnitello from the vineyard of the same name: engaging bouquet of black cherries and lilac, spicy notes; the lively acidity and the excellent, still youthful tannins are well balanced, the finish is long on notes of redcurrants and minerality." Vinum

"Beautiful complexity and spice, with walnuts, grilled citrus, plums and sweet spices. Full-bodied yet quite restrained, with fine, dusty tannins and a long finish. Polished." James Suckling

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto San Marcellino 2019 is a dark, brooding wine. Black cherry, leather, smoke, incense and tobacco contribute to an impression of seriousness and pure power. This is a particularly dark, virile edition of San Marcellino. Give it a few years to mature." Vinous

"Aromas and flavours of violets, blackcurrants and black cherries take centre stage in this supple, energetic yet elegant red wine. Vibrant and straightforward, with a firm line of tannins and great length on the iron-rich finish. It ends with fruity, mineral and spicy notes and shows solid grip." Wine Spectator

Coltassala Gran Selezione is an impeccable representative of the royal class in Chianti Classico. The immensely fragrant bouquet shows black fruits, spices and ploughed earth. All the aromas are on the dark and spicy side, but the wine always remains fresh, dense, buoyant and very linear. Shows rich volume and a strong personality and precision. SUPERIORE.DE

"As always at this young stage, the wood notes accompany the fine and bright fruit; the strengths lie in the inner tension, the elegance, the solid style of the fine tannin and the eternal length. Confirms the upward trend of this great classic, which has been organically farmed since 2000." Weinwisser

"Charismatic attack of cherries and black pepper, delicately tinged with liquorice notes; the tannins youthful, the acidity perfectly integrated, plenty of richness and power through to the long complex final." Vinum

"The organic Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Coltassala 2019 is 95% Sangiovese with a tiny 5% Mammolo. The production is 9,000 bottles in this vintage. The wine shows medium fruit weight with a nice blend of creamy black fruits, Christmas spices and crushed stone or granite. The wine is both fruity and contemporary." Wine Advocate

"Bright ruby red. In the nose initially fine mint, some fruit tea, also fine liquorice, in the aftertaste of ripe blackberries and cardamom. On the palate with clear, radiant fruit, tense powerful tannin, also on the palate with ripe berry fruit, in the final with delicate earthy-spicy nuances, grippy." Falstaff

"Aromas of black cherries and citrus fruits with some graphite and smoke. Medium-bodied with firm, juicy tannins that are still chewy now but will soften with age. Racy and long on the finish. From organically grown grapes." James Suckling

"Lovely cherry, raspberry and floral aromas and flavours take centre stage in this graceful red wine. Lively and elegant, with well-integrated tannins and a long, supple, mineral finish. In about 5 to 6 years, this wine will be truly charming." Wine Spectator

"An exceptional Gran Selezione from Volpaia, sourced from the winery's historic vines and clones. On the nose, red raspberries, hints of rhubarb and juniper, then balsamic eucalyptus. Salty-sweet on the palate, with a fruity finish and balsamic notes, very long lasting." Luca Gardini

Vigorello was created back in 1968 at the beginning of the Super Tuscan movement. It is a powerful yet refined wine that bursts from the glass with unadulterated tones of black fruit, liquorice, rose and dried lavender, Mediterranean herbs and a sweet hint of vanilla. The balance and structure are outstanding and it will develop even more complexity over time. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bay leaf, vanilla, blackcurrant, dark chocolate and blueberry aromas follow through to a firm and structured palate. Full-bodied and sturdy, with excellent freshness." James Suckling