Wines from Tuscany | Chianti

The elegant blend of Cabernet Franc, Syrah and Merlot surprises with its aroma full of purity and intensely aromatic fruit flavour. Elegance and finesse trump muscle in Turpino, a wine that is always light on its feet. Fermentation in wooden barrels and ageing in barriques lend the spicy, balsamic notes of the grape blend a softness, a fine frame and a beguilingly long finish on the palate. With its tangy acidity balancing the ripe fruit, Turpino manages to be generous and restrained at the same time, making it a great accompaniment to Mediterranean meat dishes. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, dark ruby red colour. Captivating nose with aromas of black cherry, tobacco and ebony, also some iodine. On the palate, with a good length, young but fine tannins, lots of chocolate, still needs time, lots of potential." Falstaff

"Infused with plum, cherry and blackberry fruit, this well-balanced red wine is soft in texture. Hints of Mediterranean scrub, iron, earth and tobacco complete the flavour profile. The finish is fresh and long." Wine Spectator

"Lots of black liquorice and aniseed with blackberries and blueberries. Medium-bodied with very refined and polished tannins that run the length of the wine. Crisp, firm and juicy. A blend of Cabernet Franc, Syrah and Merlot. Needs time to mellow, but is very nice." James Suckling

"The Turpino 2020, which I tasted from the barrel last year, has developed wonderfully. The 2020 is rich, multi-layered and expansive and captivates from the very first sip. The blend of Syrah, Cabernet Franc and Merlot is very well done. The Syrah contains some whole bunches (50%), another good choice that works very well. All the elements are very harmonious. This is another fabulous wine from Querciabella." Vinous

Le Cupole shows dark fruit intensity and an impressive spectrum of flavours with cherries, blackberries and plums. A hint of sweetness on the palate, a finely accentuated texture with a phenolic density and structure that gives it volume and excellent ageing potential. Added to this is a value at this level that is unrivalled in Tuscany. SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful. Lots of tension and a little fresher than Tenuta di Trinoro. Big difference in price!" Jancis Robinson

"Dusty with black fruit, wood spice and game notes, harmoniously fresh finish with a flint character." Decanter

"The 2021 Le Cupole is great. Bold, powerful and expressive, the 2021 offers an exciting blend of dark fruit, leather, grilled herbs, lavender and dark chocolate. Trinoro's entry-level Cupole offers tons of intensity and richness at a very affordable price, which is sure to make it a crowd favourite." Vinous

"Redcurrants and flowers with cinnamon and some blood orange. It's medium-bodied with fine tannins and a nice, smooth finish. Delicious now." James Suckling

"Bright, light ruby red colour with a slightly brightening rim. Red and ripe fruit on the nose, then slightly spicy and balsamic. Full-bodied on the palate, juicy, with powerful tannins, long final, still appears somewhat youthful." Falstaff

"A round, fleshy red that starts with an explosion of pure blackberry and black cherry fruit. It gains depth through mineral, earthy and spicy notes with a base of refined tannins to support it. Long and balanced." Wine Spectator

"The 2021 Le Cupole is the affordable entry-level red wine from one of Tuscany's most prolific and creative wineries. Le Cupole is velvety and full-bodied with dark fruits, dried cherries and sweet earth or terracotta. This is an incredible value." Wine Advocate

The "complete" Bordeaux from Tenuta di Trinoro, with a predominance of Cabernet Franc and Merlot and a contribution from Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. Redcurrant on the nose, a hint of nutmeg, rhubarb and orange peel, more marjoram on the finish. Spicy and savoury, fruity and spicy on the finish." Luca Gardini

L'Albereta is Alessio Logi's top wine from the single vineyard of the same name, which is also organically farmed. It owes its unmistakable identity to its rich, full-bodied texture, among other things. Matured for 12 months in oak barrels, it is rich in apricots, honey, cedar wood and roasted almonds. L'Albereta is a ripe and fleshy sun wine with a long, creamy finish flanked by smoke, spices and a delicate hint of cinnamon. It is already pleasant, but will become much richer and more complex over the next five to 12 years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Spicy-fruity bouquet, notes of peach and acacia blossom; the attack is mineral and compact, the acidity well integrated, notes of white pepper and plenty of fruit on the final." Vinum

"A fresh, juicy and lively white wine with aromas of lemons, dried herbs and mild spices on the nose. Medium-bodied with fresh acidity. Crisp green apple character on the palate with a lively citrus influence. Full-bodied and full of flavour." James Suckling

This Riserva is only made available each year in very small quantities to hand-picked specialist retailers and top restaurants. Brilliant ruby red colour. Fine raspberry and floral notes dominate the spicy nose. Very juicy on the palate, tannins and acidity are well integrated. Riecines Riserva has length and suppleness right through to the long fruity finish. The elegance and fine melting texture are impressive. Once again, this is Sangiovese at the top level that Riecine is known for! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby colour with garnet-red reflections. A savoury nose with ripe fruit of cranberries and blackberries. Fruity-sweet and juicy on the palate, opens up with a wide arc, powerful, right into the slightly salty final." Falstaff

"A pure cherry note graces this juicy red, with accents of rose, strawberry, earth and Mediterranean herbs. This turns more linear as it focuses on the mineral-infused aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"Cinnamon and balsamic notes permeate redcurrant with a core of pomegranate and cranberry on the palate. The tannins are quite compact and the acidity is lively, giving an edgy expression in the moment." Decanter

"The 2020 Chianti Classico Riserva is a real stunner with its remarkable depth and textural resonance. Black cherry, spices, mocha and dried herbs are some of the many notes that unfold in the glass. A wine with substance and presence, the 2020 offers plenty of intensity, but is by no means over the top." Vinous

"The 2020 Chianti Classico Riserva has notes of cherry liqueur and sweet crème de cassis on the nose, and the mouthfeel reflects some of the viscous nature of these descriptions. However, this pretty wine also shows depth and varietal clarity, supported by a medium structure." Wine Advocate

"Sandalwood and cherry with some orange peel. Medium body. Fine tannins. Crisp and bright. Lively and delicious. A hint of orange peel and brightness on the finish." James Suckling

"Riserva di Riecine, from a selection of the estate's best plots, clay-limestone soils and pure Sangiovese. On the nose, notes of red cherries, mentholated notes and nutmeg, with hints of eucalyptus. Juicy mouthfeel, with iodised tannins, a fruity, mentholated finish and persistence." Luca Gardini

Attractive, juicy Riserva with classic flavours of sour cherries, sour cherries, dark forest fruits and a subtle hint of liquorice. Elegant fruit and delicate structure on the palate, compact, well-integrated tannins. It walks the fine line between elegance and power, with the firm structure and lively acidity ensuring that it is concentrated and long. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant ruby colour with a dark core. Dark and multi-layered on the nose, black cherry, saddle leather, roasted flavours, also balsamic notes. On the palate with present, tightly woven tannins, compact fruit, lively acidity, complex and long, great." Falstaff

"Deep, dark ruby red colour. Brooding, concentrated sweet cherry fruit nose. Lots of juicy, concentrated cherry fruit with layers of enveloping tannins. Animating, tannic and tangy." Jancis Robinson

"The Chianti Classico Riserva 2021 is a classic Brancaia wine. Dark, resonant and multi-layered in the glass, the 2021 shows remarkable depth of style. Hints of mocha, new leather and brown spices come together in this decidedly lush, structured Riserva." Vinous

"Clean and polished, the 2021 opens with mocha-coloured notes of red cherry, cedar and balsamic wood. The palate reveals darker fruit tones with a hint of truffle. The bright fruit character matches the soft tannins, while a creamy texture is countered by crisp acidity. Beautiful structure for medium-term ageing." Decanter

"In the bottle with the wine-red label, the Brancaia 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva from organic cultivation is subtle at first glance with spicy aromas of dried fruit, black cherries and floral earth. I have the feeling that this sample doesn't quite realise its full potential, but that could be because it needs more time in the bottle. A mild, medium-bodied mouthfeel is topped with balanced acidity." Wine Advocate

"A blend of black cherry, blackberry and floral flavours is underlined by a firm structure in this fleshy red wine. Intense and balanced, with a lingering mineral aftertaste. The finish feels crisp and offers a light tactile sensation on the palate." Wine Spectator

"Very attractive interplay of dark berries, chocolate and roasted spices with good concentration and depth. Bright, focussed and very juicy, with medium body and consistent acidity. Flavourful and crisp." James Suckling

Pian del Ciampolo is a graceful and very aromatic Sangiovese with small amounts of Canaiolo and Colorino - very much in the style of Montevertine. It has a powerful personality on the nose with lots of tart cherry, raspberry and wild plum, followed by a beautiful herbal flavour on the palate. Its elegant structure and the wonderful interplay of acidity and tannin ensure a beguiling drinking flow and a terrific length. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Pian del Ciampolo 2022 is soft, juicy and ready to go. The harvestwill find a lot of immediacy in this red wine made from Sangiovese. Crushed red berry fruit, mint, spice, rose petals and earthy notes are pushed forward nicely. The 2022 is a fine Pian del Ciampolo." Vinous

"The Montevertine 2022 Pian del Ciampolo is shy at first and needs some time to open up. You can recognise notes of wild berries, redcurrants, peat moss and tin cans. It has a soft texture with silky tannins." Wine Advocate

"A crunchy and fresh red with strawberry, orange peel and cedar aromas and flavors. It’s medium- to light-bodied with a vivid finish. Drink and enjoy." James Suckling

Le Cupole offers excellent value every year. You get a glass full of sunny Tuscany and rich intensity at an affordable price. The wine is packed with black fruits, spices and leather, resulting in a classic bouquet, especially for a warm corner of Tuscany, off the beaten track, in Sarteano. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, dark ruby colour with a fine rim. Intense and elegant on the nose, ripe cherries, cedar wood, leather and cloves on the finish. The palate reveals savoury, sweet fruit, velvety tannins, fresh and juicy with a lingering finish." Falstaff

"This blend of 57% Merlot, 26% Cabernet Franc, 11% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Petit Verdot has gorgeous dark berry aromas with pretty floral overtones. In the mouth it's focussed and vertical, with crunchy red and black berries and a balsamic overtone, finishing with plenty of spice and a long, bright line of acidity." Decanter

"A fresh and vivid young Tuscan red with currant and mineral aromas that follow through to a medium to full body with crunchy tannins and a vivid finish. Creamy texture. A little tight at the end. Second wine of Trinoro. Give it time to open. Best after 2026." James Suckling

From the highest corner of the Vigna Istine (the name 550 refers to the metres above sea level), surrounded by cool forests, this balanced Merlot is vinified in concrete before spending around 15 months in lightly toasted tonneaux. Due to the cool location, it is - unusually - harvested after the Sangiovese, so that it has more time to mature on the vine. The result is a wine with a fine tannic structure and juicy, ripe blue fruit, with a hint of red fruit and some coffee notes leading to a long, graceful finish. Production is 2,600 bottles per vintage. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2021 550 is 100% Merlot planted in Vigna Istine, in Radda, at an elevation of 550 meters. Dark and sumptuous in the glass, with terrific energy, the 2021 captures all the pedigree of the year. Blackberry, sage, menthol, licorice and chocolate abound. This sumptuous, decidedly Tuscan Merlot hits all the right notes." Vinous

The grapes for Gaglioles Riserva come from vineyards in Panzano that used to belong to Le Cinciole and neighbouring Gagliole. Dark and full-bodied in the glass, it shows the full range of the Conca d'Oro area of Panzano, but does so in a pleasantly restrained style that is typical of the elegant 2019. Currently still very young, in a few years it will be much more enjoyable. SUPERIORE.DE

"Harmony and depth in this version that bears the ancient name of this beautiful farm. Complex nose, blackberries and blueberries together with mentholated touches and floral nuances, of carnation, dense and taut mouth, savory tannins, juicy finish, with mentholated-floral return." Luca Gardini

"Beautiful aromas of roses and other flowers, together with fresh cherries and lemon rind, following through to a medium body with freshness and vivid intensity to the finish. Spicy at the end." James Suckling

"Only in its second vintage, the certified organic Gagliole 2019 Chianti Classico Riserva addresses the need for a category that sits between the entry-level reds and the high-end Gran Selezione wines. Fruit is sourced exclusively from Panzano for an intense ruby color shaded by elegant darkness. Aromas recall blackberry, graphite, flint and white pepper. This wine prizes freshness, a streamlined mouthfeel and those pretty mineral notes that drive a very long and polished finish." Wine Advocate

Querciabella's Riserva, with an annual production of 10,000 bottles, is a selection of the best lots. It blends fruit from Greve, where the vineyards lie between 350 and 550 metres above sea level, with grapes from the stony high altitudes of Radda and the chalky soils of Gaiole. Tantalising aromas of spring flowers, cranberries and potting soil are accompanied by vanilla and smoke. On the palate, it is polished and pure, with a delicious, tangy acidity and sinewy tannins. As every year, one of the most refined wines of the appellation. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby colour with a dark core. Elegant on the nose with notes of hibiscus, juniper berries, plus some saddle leather and undergrowth. Precise on the palate, fine tannins and fresh acidity, with pleasant pressure towards the lingering finish." Falstaff

"The Chianti Classico Riserva 2020, which has just been bottled, is still a little restrained. Crushed red flowers, mint, white pepper, aniseed and orange peel give the 2020 a beautiful aromatic brilliance that matches its medium-bodied personality. We find a Riserva of linear intensity and power, more than volume. The vineyard sites are Greve, Lamole and Radda." Vinous

"The Querciabella Riserva is a selection of the estate's best parcels. The bottling of the 2020 vintage shows the generosity and grace of the vintage. Attractive pressed flowers, plums and red berries intertwine with subtle wood smoke. Garden herbs and tangerines emerge on the palate. The tannins are assertive yet supple and sweet, culminating in a chalky grip. This invigorating and bright wine is already very enticing - but there is much more to discover." Decanter

"Aromas and flavours of cherries, raspberries, rosehips and black pepper characterise this bright red wine. It is light on its feet, but a hint of nubby tannins coats the finish. A hint of bitter almond lingers on the finish, along with fruit and spice flavours. It shows good balance and length." Wine Spectator

"Crisp and vibrant red berries with dried flowers, savoury herbs, cedar and spice box. Medium-bodied with fine, powdery tannins and lively acidity. Fresh and concentrated with a linear finish. Crisp with a mineral backbone." James Suckling

Radiant ruby red, the wide spectrum of Sangiovese aromas ranges from sweet vanilla notes to hints of raspberries and blackberries. Dense and creamy-soft on the relaxed palate, offering a harmonious blend of tannin and alcohol with a precisely adjusted acidity level. Finishes with a long and impressive finish. SUPERIORE.DE

Sangioveto, which consists of 100% organic Sangiovese, is grown in cool locations at an altitude of 260 to 370 metres with a south-westerly exposure. In the past, Sangiovese was called "Sangioveto" or "San Zoveto". It represents a refined expression from this particular part of the appellation and a very faithful interpretation of the Tuscan grape.

Bright ruby red in colour, the broad aroma spectrum of Sangiovese ranges from sweet vanilla notes to hints of raspberries and blackberries. The relaxed flavour is dense and creamy-soft, offering a harmonious blend of tannins and alcohol with a precisely adjusted acidity level. The finish is long-lasting and impressive. SUPERIORE.DE

"On the nose, it has notes of plums, olives, cloves and tomato leaves. It is spicy and slightly chewy with a medium body and piquant acidity. A strong finish." James Suckling

"Notes of ripe mangoes and peaches with tangerine peel, beeswax, caramel and spices. Full and creamy with a crisp, consistent acidity that adds tension and freshness. Balanced, focussed and well made." James Suckling

"The Fèlsina 2019 Chardonnay I Sistri Collezione Privata is a medium-bodied wine with lots of fruit, preserved lemon, apricot, saffron spice and a pinch of cumin or cinnamon. The wine shows a creamy texture with long, soft fruit flavours that should carry this wine beyond the 10-year mark." Wine Advocate

Chianti Classico Riserva Castello di Volpaia is a dark, powerful wine. Black cherry, smoke, liquorice, incense, mocha, menthol, lavender and leather give this virile, brooding Riserva plenty of character. The palate is very aromatic with sweet red cherries, cedar wood and nuances of blood orange, yet very powerful and multi-layered with terrific depth and structure. A dream for Sangiovese lovers. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant ruby red colour with delicate rim brightening. Magnificent, complex nose, lots of small red berries, raspberry and wild strawberry, violets, subtly leathery. Elegant and very juicy on the palate, beautiful tension to peppery-spicy notes, ripe cherry fruit, vibrant acidity on the finish, powerful tannins in the background." Falstaff

"The 2020 Chianti Classico Riserva is terrific. Macerated dark cherry, spice, leather, tobacco, dried flowers and underbrush are some of the many notes that grace this super-expressive Riserva. The 2020 is a touch somber, but that only adds to its considerable allure." Vinous

"In the bottle with the black label, the organic 2020 Chianti Classico Riserva offers ripe fruit with measured intensity that never feels heavy or overdone. Achieving this level of balance is not easy in a hot growing season such as this. This wine is characterized by an especially linear and direct personality that pushes it over the palate with good momentum." Wine Advocate

"Attractive aromas of ripe cherries, dried strawberries, dried orange peel, spices and crushed stones, following through to a medium to full body with compact tannins that are firm and finely grained. Smooth and textured with vivid fruit underneath and a lingering finish." James Suckling

This Sangiovese rarity, bottled without the addition of sulphites, is only produced in the best vintages and matures for 16 months in cocciopesto, a container made from ground brick, fine stone, sand and natural fibre binder. This mixture can then be moulded into containers that are watertight but still allow micro-oxygenation. The real peculiarity of Cocciopesto wine containers lies in the material itself, which is characterised by a high thermal inertia and a certain permeability that makes it ideal for all phases, from vinification to ageing.

Compact colour, fruity, slightly animal bouquet of strawberry, cherry, caramel and brown bread. Very juicy on the palate, with sufficient aeration a puristic and at the same time extraordinarily flavoursome pleasure. The production quantity is just 2,400 bottles. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2021 Sangiovese di S. Lucia is a bold, racy wine. Ripe red cherry fruit, licorice, leather, rose petal and sweet spice are nicely amplified. The Sangiovese is done in amphora, so it has the combination of fruit purity and intensely savory aromatics that are common for wines done in this style, which is on the eccentric side." Vinous

"Orange blossom with fresh cherries and dried flowers with some dried flower stems, following through to a medium body with tangy fruit and hints of spices. No sulfites added." James Suckling

"Sporting a very punchy and vibrant personality, the Castello dei Rampolla 2021 Sangiovese di S. Lucia offers an authentic and nearly transparent expression of Sangiovese from one of the most beautiful corners on the planet. With cocciopesto amphorae aging, you taste the skins of the grapes with plum and blackcurrant. There is bitter almond and lovely iris or violet-like aromas over a delicate, mid-weight delivery." Wine Advocate

Rich and elegant cuvée made from 60% Sangiovese and 40% Pinot Noir, matured on the lees for 48 months. Intense straw yellow in the glass with golden reflections, the perlage is fine and persistent. Rich notes of citrus and red fruits on the nose, with subtle hints of sweet spices and melted butter in the background. Creamy and balanced on the palate, with an impressive balance between freshness and depth. Refined and long on the finish. SUPERIORE.DE

Felsina's Nero di Nubi is a brilliant, unspoilt expression of this delicate Burgundian grape variety with plenty of power and a typical Tuscan attitude. On the nose, wild berries and candied cherry with orange peel and violets. To finish, there is some powdered earth with dried Mediterranean herbs. Fabulous! SUPERIORE.DE

Since the 2012 vintage, a small and strictly selected part of the Sangiovese at Istine has been vinified separately according to the origin of the vineyard in order to emphasise and bring to life the specific characteristics of the site, the soil and the altitude. Since then, the best grapes from the estate's own vineyards Istine, Casanova dell'Aia and Cavarchione have been vinified separately, resulting in three now highly sought-after cru wines, of which just 3,000 bottles are sold in specialised shops and restaurants every year.

Vigna Istine is marvellous. Dark cherry, spices, leather and tobacco unfold in the glass. An incredibly creamy personality and breadth on the palate. With its flavour profile of lavender, spices, leather, menthol and liquorice, Vigna Istine has an indescribable richness of facets. The high-altitude vineyard, planted between 480 and 550 metres above sea level, provides freshness, aromatic intensity, mineral notes and exciting ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"This red is infused with fresh cherry, strawberry, rose hip and iron flavors aligned to a streamlined profile. Subtle, yet persists on the finish, delivering harmony and the potential to evolve another decade, maybe two." Wine Spectator

"The Chianti Classico Vigna Istine 2020 is a wine with understatement and class. The translucent finesse of the Radda comes through loud and clear. Crushed stones, mint, chalk and white pepper add a striking, brilliant note. The 2020 is simply magnificent." Vinous

Felsina's Vin Santo del Chianti Classico 2016 has a dark amber colour with shiny golden reflections. The wine is soft and creamy in texture, but not too viscous. It glides smoothly over the palate and exudes flavours of candied fruit, honey, almonds and marron glacé. Perfectly balanced, with fine complexity and a long, resonant aftertaste. SUPERIORE.DE

"Firmer and deeper, more complex, oxidative, somewhat nutty, spicy and dried herbs as well as candied yellow fruit aromas with a hint of orange blossom, nutmeg and honey. Concentrated fruit with somewhat smoky and spicy wood notes as well as nuances reminiscent of hazelnut and almond brittle, very fine acidity, has a grip of ripe tannin, dense and persistent, mocha and wild mushrooms in the background, oxidative tones again, good depth, long, complex finish with concentrated juice and a hint of bread spice." Wein-Plus

Since the 2012 vintage, a small and strictly selected part of the Sangiovese at Istine has been vinified separately according to the origin of the vineyard in order to emphasise and bring to life the specific characteristics of the site, the soil and the altitude. Since then, the best grapes from the estate's own vineyards Istine, Casanova dell'Aia and Cavarchione have been vinified separately, resulting in three now highly sought-after cru wines, of which just 3,000 bottles are sold in specialised shops and restaurants every year.

Vigna Casanova dell'Aia is airy, weightless and graceful in flavour. Crushed flowers, sweet red berries, mint, chalk and white pepper rise from the glass in this very beautiful, incredibly nuanced Chianti Classico. Arguably the most ethereal wine in the high-class Istine collection, flavours of red berries and cherries are flanked by a fine, almost silky tannin on the palate and lead into an elegant, flowing finish with remarkable memorable potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"A succulent red highlighted by beautifully defined cherry, raspberry, floral and mineral aromas and flavors. Solidly built, suggesting this will develop further. Boasts excellent balance, with leafy underbrush and wild herb notes on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"The Chianti Classico 2020 Vigna Casanova dell'Aia shows a darker, richer side of the Sangiovese from Radda. Black cherry, sage, lavender, menthol, liquorice and tobacco blend together. The Casanova dell'Aia is a wine of great presence and real stature that is fabulous. It just needs time to mellow a little." Vinous

"The 2020 is as beautiful as it is precise. Pronounced raspberry, pomegranate and blood orange meld with floral scents of cherry blossom. It is characterised by a generosity of flavours, a graceful structure of powdery tannins and appetising acidity. A real citrus tone of pink grapefruit emphasises the palate, and the finish is even slightly salty." Decanter

Millesimato Metodo Classico Brut 2018 - carefully matured using the Metodo Classico method - is juicy, floral and creamy, with a lovely acidity. Flavours of peach and stone fruit take centre stage, with delicate mineral tones and a lovely hint of baked bread. Silky and delicate, this is the stuff of dreams. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich and complex on the nose, with glazed lemons, pears and hints of almonds and pralines. Juicy and mouth-filing, with a medium to full body and a creamy texture. Minerally, slightly saltine character at the end." James Suckling

Nemo is an exceptional Tuscan Cabernet: It is masculine, extremely spicy and of an impressive expressiveness. In the initially slightly reductive bouquet, a poptpourri of morello cherry, spices, liquorice, leather, tobacco and a hint of rosemary oil. The palate is punchy, complex and of a high aromatic intensity and at the same time distinctly Tuscan identity. We strongly recommend giving the wine a few hours of aeration before drinking - the alternative for the patient is to put it in the cellar and find it again in five years ... SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red. Rich, tree-ripe cherries on the nose, cranberries, a dash of ink and graphite, violets. On the palate with beautiful melting and great cassis fruit, also minty components, spans a fine arch, fine afterdrying in the finish." Falstaff

"The Castello di Monsanto 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Nemo is a pretty treat. The aromas are spot on and the bouquet shows little sign of the vintage heat that proved difficult in many parts of Tuscany. Instead, this wine offers delicate tones of blue flower, black olive, spice and campfire ash. There is smoothness on the bouquet; however, the palate shows some of the tannic astringency and tightness that is characteristic of this 2017 vintage. Give it a few more years of bottle age." Wine Advocate

"The blackcurrant and vanilla character is coming through strongly here now, both on the nose and palate. It’s full-bodied with chewy tannins and a long, flavorful finish. Some bitterness at the end with the new wood. Give this time to come around." James Suckling

Since the 2012 vintage, a small and strictly selected part of the Sangiovese at Istine has been vinified separately according to the origin of the vineyard in order to emphasise and bring to life the specific characteristics of the site, the soil and the altitude. Since then, the best grapes from the estate's own vineyards Istine, Casanova dell'Aia and Cavarchione have been vinified separately, resulting in three now highly sought-after cru wines, of which just 3,000 bottles are sold in specialised shops and restaurants every year.

Vigna Cavarchione from the single vineyard of the same name in Gaiole is powerful, juicy and creamy, as befits a wine from this part of the appellation. Overripe red cherry fruit, mint, dried flowers and spices blend together in a sensual, inviting Chianti Classico that is characterised by its richness and suppleness. This highly distinctive and terrific masterpiece finishes with a lovely lace of sweet raspberry contrasting with the sour cherry. SUPERIORE.DE

"Lush, yet with an edge of dusty tannins framing cherry, strawberry, rose and earth flavors. Shows strong grip on the finish, along with a beam of vibrant acidity and a lingering aftertaste of red fruit. Leans to the elegant side." Wine Spectator

"It is not lacking in ripeness, it is downright lush, but also juicy and light-footed. It smells of dark plum, damp earth, rosehip and violets. On the palate, it is rather red-fruity: sour cherry meets tamarind and bitter liquorice root. The fine-grained tannins are just as persistent as the piquant acidity. Absolutely flavourful." Decanter

"The 2020 Chianti Classico Vigna Cavarchione is stellar in 2020. Lush and rich, but with plenty of classic Istinism, the Cavarchione has the potential to be one of the wines of this very young vintage. All the elements come together effortlessly. Black cherry, plum, sage, lavender, liquorice and incense develop over time and fill out the layers beautifully. The complexity of this wine is simply incredible." Vinous