Wines from Tuscany | Chianti

Very appetising Sauvignon Blanc from Tuscany, fermented in steel, wood and terracotta. Pale straw yellow in colour, with a beautiful aroma of light berries, mint, chamomile and wild flowers. Round, harmonious and fresh flavour that is vibrant and aromatic. Only 8,000 bottles are produced each year. SUPERIORE.DE

Pure Cabernet Sauvignon from Barbara Widmer's Maremma estate. Deep, dark ruby red in colour, with an animating aroma of dark berries, coffee, cocoa, eucalyptus and spices on the nose. Notes of green pepper, fine sweetness and juiciness on the palate. The tannins are polished and pave the way for a long, racy finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, very dense ruby colour with a light sheen. Open nose with black cherry, plum jam, followed by some undergrowth and leather. Full-bodied palate, wide-ranging acidity, taut tannins. Good palate pressure with tension, retronasal sour cherry, long-lasting, slightly acidic finish." Falstaff

"This wine is very pure and delicious, with notes of dark and blue fruits, crushed stones and spice box. Medium-bodied with firm but very fine tannins and a juicy mid-palate. Already very attractive. From organically grown grapes." James Suckling

"The 2022 No. 2 is packed with blackberries, chocolate, cloves, liquorice and espresso. This friendly, racy Maremma red wine has a lot of appeal to offer. Soft contours round it off. " Vinous

After almost two centuries, it is time to erect a "monument" to the enthusiastic grape grower Philip Mazzei (1730-1816). In the form of this single-varietal Cabernet Sauvignon, this succeeds extraordinarily well. Elegant, deep dark colour, classic aromas, complex, fruity and spicy flavour, well-proportioned tannins and acidity, taut, structured and persistent. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Philip 2021, 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, is a fine achievement from the Mazzei family. Dried herbs, lavender, sage, mint and liquorice play with a core of blue and purple fruit. There's a lot to like - that's for sure." Vinous

"The Mazzei 2021 Philip is soft and richly textured with all sorts of blackberry and black fruit aromas packed inside. These come through with special intensity in this balanced vintage. The wine style is contemporary and easily accessible for an international palate." Wine Advocate

"Cloves, dark fruit, leather and savoury complexity. Youthful, velvety tannins with crisp acidity, a full body and a spicy finish full of blond tobacco and coffee grounds." James Suckling

Maurizia di Napoli Rampolla and her brother Luca describe their strategy of natural viticulture in Panzano as "gentle farming". The very successful Chianti Classico with its clean fruit bouquet, precise flavour, firm tannins and beautiful texture and depth is a delightful wine that is unfortunately very limited in quantity each year. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Chianti Classico 2021 is an elegant, graceful wine. Crushed flowers, bright red fruits, tobacco, cinnamon and dried flowers take shape in a decidedly delicate, restrained wine from Rampolla. The 2021 is a model of elegance and finesse and is at its best today." Vinous

"Maraschino cherry, pomegranate, smoked meat, earth and rosemary flavors highlight this sleek red, which is defined by vivid acidity and solid tannins, with a dry, sinewy finish." Wine Spectator

"A dense, velvety and delicious Chianti Classico with aromas of sour cherries, wild berries and dried flowers on the nose. Medium-bodied with fine tannins. Lots of texture, with a core of berries coming through. Aromatic finish." James Suckling

This successful blend of Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc opens with dark concentration and great density. Fornace offers impressive juiciness and rich flavours of red cherries, blackberries, spices and grilled herbs. Its full body, restrained acidity and silky tannins are perfectly balanced, with balsamic hints accompanying this attractive Supertuscan into a supple and long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Interesting blend with lots of Cabernet Franc: Intense yet elegant nose of dark forest fruits, tobacco, also subtle eucalyptus notes; dense and full-bodied in the mouth, the tannins are fine-grained, dark fruity and spicy on the finish. Perfect with game and wild fowl." Vinum

"Though there are still tannins present on the finish, this red is ready to enjoy. Sweet spice notes frame the plum and cherry fruit at the heart of this version, which is fluid and supple, with touches of wild rosemary, thyme and earth on the finish." Wine Spectator

"Notes of ripe cherries, wild berries, dried orange peel, cedar and crushed stones. Dry and tense on the palate, with lightly chewy but very fine tannins. Medium-bodied. It’s concentrated and characterful, with a zesty, minerally aftertaste and some savory, peppery nuances. Really tense and energetic." James Suckling

Exciting, balsamic, white cuvée from Vermentino, Trebbiano and Malvasia - with a handful of Traminer and Riesling. Initially reductive on the nose, then dark yellow fruit, some smoke. Very direct, straightforward and grippingly mineral on the palate, with crisp acidity, citrus zest and fine juicy yellow fruit. Lingers on the palate for a long time and, with its race and alpine freshness, makes you briefly forget that this linear and very concise white wine comes from Tuscany. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling straw yellow colour. Smells of peach, melon and cucumber, with a hint of fennel seed in the background. Racy acidity characterises the palate, some saffron and peach again, with a salty final." Falstaff

"The Pianvecchio 2023 is a rare, co-fermented Vermentino/Riesling blend from young vines. Pretty floral nuances and a hint of orchard fruits adorn this light-coloured, very expressive white wine. It opens up beautifully with a little time in the glass." Vinous

"A racy and crisp white wine with a medium body, crisp acidity and a chalky texture. Aromas and flavours of fresh lemon, aromatic herbs and citrus blossom. Refreshing and full of flavour. Made from organically grown grapes." James Suckling

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

"Attractive red-fruity character with notes of walnuts, dried leaves, ground cloves and crushed stones. Medium body with polished tannins and chalky texture. Firm and straightforward with lively acidity." James Suckling

"Cherry, plum, leather, iron, sanguine and eucalyptus aromas and flavors mingle in this firm, linear red, which unfolds nicely on the palate, with fine staying power. Just a bit crisp on the finish." Wine Spectator

"The key is the territory. This winery creates a very authentic and clean expression of Gaiole in Chianti, one of the wildest corners of the appellation with winding roads that lead through dense forests. This wild character is reproduced here with flavours of forest fruits, spices and earth." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 is beautiful and lively and enchants with evocative aromas of hibiscus, coriander and orange zest. Medium-bodied with slender, graceful fruit, it offers crunchy redcurrants and raspberries carried by juicy acidity. A fine, subtle framework of chalky tannins provides elegant support for the next six to seven years - but it is also very enjoyable now." Decanter

The name is derived from "Avenal", the Etruscan name of the area from which the grapes originate. It thus epitomises the ancient culture present in the San Felice area. Complex and persistent bouquet of citrus fruits, white flowers with clear notes of straw and acacia. The palate combines balanced freshness with a pleasant softness. This wonderful interpretation of Chardonnay with small amounts of Sauvgnon and Semilion goes perfectly with starters and light first courses, white meat and sushi. SUPERIORE.DE

"The nose is very subtle, but I am fascinated by how strong the Sauvignon influence is on the profile of the wine, despite being a relatively small proportion. The fruit is firmly on the passion-fruit and pink-grapefruit spectrum with a grassy, herbal undertone. The oak influence is almost invisible. It's elegant, but not without exuberance – as sort of vivid-orange alacrity under a veil of white chalk. It also became more delicious as it opened up in the glass, showing me that this is not a wine to serve too cold if you want the best from it. I could think of so many bold, fusion salads this would work well with!" Jancis Robinson

Wonderful, finesse-rich selection of the estate's best Sangiovese grapes. The nose is impressive with its richness: red fruits, dark flowers, fine tar and vegetal notes, traces of blackberry jam. Full-bodied on the palate with subtle extract sweetness, powerful and juicy at the same time, the well-proportioned tannins come into play very well and glide this red elegantly into a long final. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Selvapiana 2020 Chianti Rufina Riserva Vigneto Bucerchiale is beautifully balanced with lots of fresh fruit, sour cherry, candied watermelon and crushed rose. The impact of this 100% Sangiovese is beautiful and balanced. This is one of the finest Chianti Rufina wines in this vintage. The tannins are dry and powdery, the mouthfeel is medium weight." Wine Advocate

"Sweet, ripe cherry, plum, earth, smoke and woodsy underbrush aromas and flavors mark this fluid, expressive red, which picks up spice and tobacco elements on the long aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"Spicy and complex nose with fleshy, earthy notes of orange peel, iron, baking spices, leather and ripe plums. Juicy and firm on the palate with medium to full body and ample, mealy tannins. Long and flattering finish." James Suckling

"Restrained raspberry flavours, enveloped by delicate herbal notes, balanced, still youthful texture with fullness and elegance, long cherry finish. Will give a lot of pleasure with maturity." Vinum

Borgo 2022 is the debut vintage of a Chianti Classico that embodies the soul of San Felice with great character. Sangiovese and a small amount of Pugnitello combine to create a fragrant and lively wine that faithfully and authentically represents the unmistakable terroir. The overall impression is versatile and immediate, with freshness, fruity aromas and floral notes. Rich and complex on the palate, with sweet tannins that accompany a persistent and balanced finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"This is exactly the kind of wine you want to come home with. Its freshness alone is a pick-me-up. Its cherry, raspberry and blackberry-coloured fruit is so vibrant and three-dimensional and 'now' that it tastes like you're picking it in the garden in the sunlight and popping it straight into your mouth. You take a sip of it and look for spots of juice on your fingers. It's a happy wine. It's fabulous at this moment." Jancis Robinson

"A juicy, fresh and delicious red wine with flavours of plums, cherries and oranges. Medium-bodied, bright and lively. Why wait?" James Suckling

"The Chianti Classico Borgo 2022 opens with a medium-dark garnet red colour, characteristic of Sangiovese from a warm vintage. The wine's bouquet is true to the variety, with aromas of wild cherry, floral earth, iris and blue flowers in the background. These flavours are delivered in a very clean and concentrated way, followed by good acidity. It is approachable and pleasant to drink, especially when a plate of pasta with meat ragout is on the menu." Wine Advocate

"This broad, rich red wine shows flavours of cherries, raspberries, iron and wild herbs. Well defined and firmly structured, with a fluid feel and excellent length on the finish." Wine Spectator

"Sanguine and floral with a delicate but persistent earthiness on the nose, offering flavours of cranberry, hibiscus, earth and coffee. The same mix of tart fruit and slightly bitter earth defines the palate, while a lively acidity washes over still slightly dusty tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"The Chianti Classico Borgo 2022 is a racy, sensual wine. Crushed red berry fruit, wild flowers and cinnamon fill out the layers beautifully, all framed by soft contours that give it plenty of charm. This juicy red wine has a lot to offer." Vinous

Trebianco is a golden yellow "natural/orange wine" made from Chardonnay, Traminer, Sauvignon Blanc and Trebbiano and matured in clay barrels. The initially reductive bouquet has hints of sweet tobacco, nutmeg, leather, honey, orange peel and spicy herbs. Fresh on the palate with vibrant acidity. Note: The wine is unsulphurised, unfiltered and fascinatingly special. An oxidative note and lees in the wine do not represent a lack of quality. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Castello dei Rampolla 2022 Trebianco di S. Lucia is a blend of Trebbiano, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Traminer made in amphorae. It pours from the bottle with hints of amber and copper and definitely brings on macerated tones with white wine tannins and some bitterness. You taste the grape skins along with dried apricot and orange marmalade." Wine Advocate

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

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

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

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

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

Wonderful, single-variety organic olive oil made from 100% Coreggiolo from Tenuta Fontodi. Careful farming is the origin of this fine olive oil. 400 olive trees grow per hectare of olive grove and only 1,000 bottles are filled in 500 ml format. The olives are picked by hand and gently pressed on the same day to preserve their authentic freshness. The result is an olio that is rather restrained and delicately fruity in flavour, but still has an extraordinary complexity with herbal notes and distinct bitter tones. This Olio di Oliva Extra Vergine tastes excellent with freshly baked bread, but also with grilled vegetables or fine fish dishes. SUPERIORE.DE

The Campo della Pieve vineyard (approx. 380 metres above sea level) faces south-west and has thicker soils and more tufa. The most recent parcel, which was recently acquired, is the highest to date at 400 metres above sea level. The site is more susceptible to wind and has good water retention thanks to the heavier clay soils.

Bright, light golden yellow colour. Delicate nose of fresh yellow apple, some peach, lemon balm, flint in the background. Round and smooth on the palate with a lovely balance between acidity, freshness, citrus and tropical fruit, plus a subtle minerality. In keeping with the characteristics of the Vernaccia grape, the wine is not overly fruity, but displays an exciting spiciness that lends it personality and an additional arc of tension. SUPERIORE.DE

"A pleasant bouquet of apricots and dried roses; the attack is juicy, the acidity well integrated, salty-mineral nuances, pleasing with its timeless style." Vinum

"Bright, radiant straw yellow with light olive green reflections. Fresh and fragrant on the nose, juicy lemons, sage, minimal hints of white peach, elegant spicy notes on the finish. Very fresh on the palate with clear fruit, balanced, with subtle creamy fruit and a long, juicy finish. A great Vernaccia!" Falstaff

"A delicious, balanced and refreshing white wine with notes of stone fruit, yellow plums and a hint of lemon nougat. It has a medium body with fresh acidity and brightness in the centre. Lively and juicy." James Suckling

"Very distinctive, with aromas of herbs, citrus fruits and elderflower. The wine is salty, dynamic and has a great depth of flavour. It comes from a 15-year-old vineyard owned by the Logi family and planted on 1.5 hectares of yellow sand and limestone soils below the Pieve (parish) of San Donato. Spontaneous fermentation and long ageing on fine lees in concrete." Decanter

Castellares Chianti Classico Riserva opens with a bouquet of black cherry, plum, mocha, game, spices, leather and tobacco. A dark, mysterious wine with enormous depth and the potential to develop well for many years to come. This medium-bodied, super-classic Riserva captures the Castellare style beautifully, with plenty of character and a strong personality. SUPERIORE.DE

"The wood nuances eventually give way to leather and macerated cherry. The fruit is bright and concentrated but pure, and juicy acidity helps brighten the wine, while ripe, polished tannins give way generously. Give this wine another year to digest its oak." Decanter

"A balanced, concentrated and delicious red wine with flavours of baked cherries, cassis and grilled herbs. It is medium-bodied with chewy tannins. Serious, with a juicy mid palate and a solid, compact finish with length." James Suckling

"The Chianti Classico Riserva 2021 is a silky, racy wine. With remarkable elegance and finesse, the 2021 is very expressive right from the start. Dark macerated cherry, spice, new leather, liquorice and a kiss of French oak adorn this polished Riserva." Vinous

"A rich, round version, offering plum, cherry, vanilla and iron flavors. There's a solid grip of tannins but also vibrant acidity that focuses this red and propels the finish. The balance tips toward the tannins for now, so give this some time in the bottle." Wine Spectator

"On the nose, notes of Durone de Vignola and peony, then a hint of rhubarb. Spicy tannins on the palate, with hints of dark fruit, flowers and undergrowth." Luca Gardini

Noble, typically Tuscan notes of cherries, blackberries, violets and spices on the nose. Extraordinarily complex, multi-layered and excellently structured on the palate. Firm tannins, intense fruit and pleasant acidity are already in perfect harmony. The drinking pleasure builds beautifully and increases in the long final. For us, it has been an attractive alternative to Antinori's famous Tignanello for years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Aromas of dried cherries, bark, mahogany and porcini mushrooms. Also lemons and herbs. Medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins and tangy acidity. Juicy, flavoursome and supple." James Suckling

"This red wine is made from Sangiovese with Cabernet Sauvignon in a supporting role. The Poggio Bonelli 2018 Poggiassai is velvety, rich and full of dark fruits, cherry liqueur, barbecue spices and grilled herbs. The wine shows a beautiful dark colour and dense concentration to complete what is ultimately a very contemporary style of wine." Wine Advocate

Deep, dark Riserva with a powerful berry bouquet and intense spicy notes and hints of damp forest floor. Taut on the palate, crisp fruit, solid tannins, good length. Lots of energy, nice spice and great potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling ruby colour with a fine garnet sheen. Very intense and inviting nose, flavours of raspberries, cherry jam and hazelnut biscuits. Firm tannins dominate the palate, lots of damson." Falstaff

"On the nose, the sweetness of cherry and vanilla is balanced by the gentle bitterness of orange zest and herbs. On the palate, a rush of chocolate invigorates the fruit element, but balance is maintained by an earthiness that's drawn out by chalky, clingy tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"The Chianti Classico Riserva 2019 is a blend of Sangiovese (90%) with smaller proportions of Merlot and Colorino. It shows a dark, saturated appearance and a heavy aromatic load of black fruits, ripe cherries, plums, spices and sweet floral earth. The wine finishes with medium concentration, herbal notes and the natural freshness of Sangiovese." Wine Advocate

"There's a good balance of fruit and oak here, with red berries and fine oak giving off a hint of vanilla. Medium to full-bodied with well-integrated fruit and oak tannins and a sort of plump feel on the palate. The finish is medium length at the moment but should lengthen with time in the bottle. Try it from mid-2024." James Suckling