Wines from Tuscany

Pacentis Brunello Vecchie Vigne radiates with attractive aromas of black berries, dark cherries and coffee. Delicious and very elegant taste with silky tannins and considerable length. Siro Pacenti is one of the most historic houses in the region and Vecchie Vigne enchants the senses with this very solid expression. SUPERIORE.DE

"Showing more oak definition, texture and overall fruity richness, the 2013 Brunello di Montalcino Vecchie Vigne benefits from the concentration and complexity you get with old vines. The wine wraps thickly over the palate, imparting luscious aromas of dried cherry, exotic spice, pressed rose and scorched earth along the way. This is a wine for the cellar. The bouquet has a lot to give, but this will require some extra time. All the elements are there for an excellent aging future." Wine Advocate

"The nose is decadent but not overdone with plum liqueur, Christmas cake, cedar, Chinese spices, licorice, tea leaves, tar and hot stones. Full and very dense with mouth-coating tannins but also attractive fresh fruit, pretty acidity and a long finish. Rather chewy and needs time, but a beautiful follow-up to the 2012." James Suckling

"Forest floor, toasted oak, dark spice, new leather and tobacco aromas fill the glass along with a whiff of eucalyptus. The firmly structured concentrated palate shows power and finesse, offering dried black cherry, star anise, coffee bean and grilled sage alongside fresh acidity and close-grained tannins. It's still youthfully austere and will benefit with several more years spent in the cellar." Wine Enthusiast

"Bright and bursting with cherry, currant and berry flavors, this also has a tannic edge, along with tobacco and leafy underbrush notes. The two camps need to reach some sort of détente before this really sings." Wine Spectator

"From two different sites, one in the north of the region and one in the south, this sensually enticing wine has a fleshiness and a textural wealth which makes a welcome change after the near-angular refinement of some of its peers. The sweet fruits have a soft, almost milky or creamy aromatic sheen, like glove leather. On the palate, those fruits are more structured and firm: plum and pomegranate, with palpable cut and shapeliness, fresh and springy tannins and ample, poised dryness." Decanter

Only 1,650 bottles of this 1.5 ha Cabernet Franc single vineyard "Campo di Camagi" (mainly quartz and limestone) reach the specialised trade and the menus of the best restaurants worldwide. Campo di Camagi is a very precise and focused wine. The high quality of the Cabernet Franc grape is noticeable here with every sip. Black fruits and spices are in elegant unity here and the full, racy body of this exceptional wine will only fully reveal itself in many years. Please be sure to put this bottle far away! SUPERIORE.DE

"At first smells closed, then all the more seductive of dark forest fruits and undergrowth, also spicy notes; concentrated in the mouth, powerful tannin, lots of juice and character. Should still mature." Vinum

"Rich, sparkling ruby-violet. Smells of ripe blackberries and dark currants, followed by red beet and tobacco, some pepper. On the palate gripping, dense tannin, lots of spicy components, lively and hearty, dark chocolate in the finish, still needs long maturity." Falstaff

"Fresh and focused, this red features a line of pure cherry flavors, along with black currant, tobacco, iron and olive notes, all supported by a deft use of oak, firm yet pliable tannins and a long, detailed finish. Shows fine overall harmony and potential." Wine Spectator

"This vineyard site sits at 550 meters in altitude, with clay soils spread over 1.5 hectares. The Tenuta di Trinoro 2019 Campo di Camagi is another site-specific expression of Cabernet Franc from a vintner who has produced some of the greatest expressions of this Bordelais grape made in Italy. What distinguishes this bottle next to, say, the Campo di Magnacosta (with looser alluvial limestone and sandstone soils) is the wine's overall sense of concentration and fruit weight. It is full and generous, leaving a big impact on all the senses. This wine packs a powerful punch with black fruit, spice, tobacco and scorched earth." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Campo di Camagi is another highlight in this range from Trinoro. Bright and effusive in its aromatics, the 2019 is all class. Sweet red cherry fruit, cedar, tobacco, anise, blood orange and cinnamon lend brightness. I especially admire the delineation here." Vinous

Beautiful and very well-balanced red wine from the three main historical areas of Montalcino, which have different geoclimatic characteristics due to their different slopes and altitudes, thus ensuring a unique balance between freshness and structure, body and elegance. Ruby red in colour with garnet hues, it opens immediately with a rich, complex nose. Initially dark cherry, chinotto orange and violet. It then opens up to broader, more complex notes of blueberry, vanilla, tobacco, cinnamon and chocolate with a subtle menthol finish. The primary fruit is surrounded by spice, grilled herbs and floral earth; nice length. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red colour. Cherry and tomato leaf on the nose, then a fine leather flavour. Good freshness and juicy fruit on the palate, shows firm body and pressure, accessible, delicately bitter on the final." Falstaff

"Deep ruby red colour. Compact and dense on the nose with notes of sweet raspberries and fresh mint. Lots of sweet raspberry fruit on the palate with a tangy acid nerve that runs through the fullness of the fruit. Firm but ripe and fine-grained tannins. A fairly rich wine, but one that will probably age well." Jancis Robinson

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino exudes hints of wild berries, violet pastille and sweet smoke. This is a seductive effort with juicy acidity and vibrant red and blue fruits swirling throughout. Autumnal spices and dark chocolate slowly saturate towards the finish. The 2019 finishes long yet remarkably fresh with a hint of liquorice and slightly grippy tannins. The 2019 aims to please and will provide early satisfaction after a short stay in the cellar while the single-vineyard wines slowly mature." Vinous

"The Brunello from the Val di Suga vineyard is made up of equal parts from the Vigna del Lago vineyard in the north-east, Poggio al Granchio in the south-east and Vigna Spuntali in the south-west of Montalcino. The bright ruby red colour and youthful freshness are well preserved. Concentrated aromas of red cherry with a hint of pepper fade into deep violet and sweet earth. The medium-bodied palate is appealing and pure, offering layers of lush red berry and plump persimmon flavours underscored by juicy acidity. The sandy textured tannins are supple and yielding. Hard to resist." Decanter

"This lively red wine is smooth and harmonious, with strawberry, cherry and blackcurrant fruit flavours underpinned by mineral and wild herbal notes. Dusty tannins give it grip and texture on the finish. Excellent length." Wine Spectator

"A blend of three vineyards belonging to three different sides of the appellation. Durone di Vignola on the nose, a hint of lemon thyme and clementine peel. Juicy on the palate, with a hint of savoury and balsamic notes. Persistent." Luca Gardini

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

The grapes for Le Ripi's top Brunello come from a 4-hectare vineyard near Castelnuovo dell'Abate on the eastern side of Montalcino, not far from the Lupi e Sirene vineyard. Amore e Magia first impresses with its beauty in the glass: deep ruby with violet, fuchsia-coloured accents. The nose then reveals a very clear, concise bouquet with a disarming openness that is immediately captivating. We discover candied fruit, raspberries, roasted nuts and Christmas spices, then notes of leather. The first impression on the palate is rather silky and floral, the fine salinity and wonderfully integrated acidity provide vital freshness and the solidly woven tannin builds up with energy and flanks every sip right through to the multi-layered final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with a slightly brightening rim. Noble, elegant nose, delicate flavours of raspberries, dried tomatoes, undergrowth, ripe cherry on the finish. Very elegant in the mouth, with polished tannins and creamy fruit, well-balanced, keeps coming back, beautiful length and precision, good pressure and fine salt on the finish." Falstaff

"Showing maturing notes of mushroom and woodsy underbrush, this red also reveals ripe cherry, strawberry, almond, iron and sanguine flavors. Firm enough yet approachable, with fine overall balance and length." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Amore e Magia reminds me more of an exotic herbal tea than wine, as notes of incense and jasmine give way to spiced blood orange. This wine soothes with its silky texture and cool acidity. Ripe wild berries flatter the palate, contrasted by a hint of orange towards the end. On the finish, the tannins are grippy and edgy, providing a classic dry feel, while the tart cranberries fade beneath the rosy florals within. Patience is needed; this is a tight, young Brunello that shows off its southern roots." Vinous

Normally, the Sangiovese grapes from the 14-hectare single vineyard are mainly harvested in Ama and San Lorenzo. Since the 2018 harvest, Lorenza and Marco have decided to vinify a small quantity separately. Deep, dark ruby red colour with violet reflections. Extroverted bouquet of blackberry, raspberry and redcurrant, with notes of crushed gravel, tobacco and traces of young leather. Very powerful and beautifully textured on the palate, the various layers of primary fruit only gradually unfold, the wood pleasantly receding into the background. Finely granulated tannins and a well-integrated acidity flank this very harmonious red on an elegant, long final. There is a lot to like here, for us it is once again a typical Ama wine: racy, powerful and elegant! SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, bright ruby red with violet reflections. Very precise nose of ripe cherries and plums, some eucalyptus, undergrowth and juniper berries on the finish. Initially soft on the palate with a delicate fruity flavour, then with gripping tannins." Falstaff

"The 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva Montebuoni is a bold, potent wine. Black fruit, leather, tobacco, grilled herbs, licorice and incense add to an impression of virile intensity. Ideally, readers will cellar this for a few years. It’s a serious wine that needs a bit of time." Vinous

"Flavours of black cherries, dark mushrooms and some lemon zest follow through to a medium body that finishes long and energetic." James Suckling

"The 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva Montebuoni is a broad and rich expression of Sangiovese, offering concentrated blackberries, plums and velvety tannins. The wine shows attractive accessibility and a generous, medium-bodied mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

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

"Dark, shiny ruby colour. Elegant bouquet of ripe blackberry and ribes, with some cloves and white pepper behind it, complex. Harmonious on the palate, beautiful alternation of lively acidity, fine-grained tannin and precise fruit, long." Falstaff

"Youthful carmine red colour. Beautiful, mineral, stony nose with notes of leather and brooding fruit. Juicy, compact and fruity on the palate, with finely chiselled tannins. A very appealing whole that still deserves plenty of time." Jancis Robinson

"The nose is herbaceous, savoury and floral with aromas of earth, moss and wild strawberries. A cascade of berries crashes across the palate, while edgy tannins and ample acidity accentuate undertones of dark chocolate and salt, with a latent heat blazing in the background." Wine Enthusiast

"A refined, balanced and seductive red wine with flavours of cherries, dried flowers, wild herbs and exotic spices. It is medium-bodied with fine tannins. Refined texture with focus and a juicy core of wild berries that brings vitality and freshness to the flavourful finish." James Suckling

"In the bottle with the copper-coloured wax capsule, the Bio-Riecine 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva shows rich or almost crunchy red fruit. The mouthfeel of the wine is much improved thanks to its medium weight and silky tannins. The wine has a slight stiffness, which is good for it now, especially when served with red meat, and which also makes it suitable for ageing in the cellar. Riecine is one of the most representative wineries in the Gaiole subzone." Wine Advocate

"It already shows an exquisite clarity of wild strawberries, raspberries, coriander and mint blossom, and although it comes across as slender, it has sufficient concentration. It captivates with its vibrancy and graceful flow; the structure blends insidiously with a structured tannin train. Very nice." Decanter

"The Chianti Classico Riserva 2021 is a dark, brooding wine. Sour cherry, spice, leather, tobacco, menthol, liquorice and dried herbs are enhanced in this powerful, strong Gaiole Riserva. Bright mineral notes round off the whole in style. Give this wine a year or two to develop." Vinous

"From the usual, careful selection of the farm's best plots. On the nose, notes of redcurrant, with a hint of eucalyptus and cinnamon and nuances of laurel. On the palate, it is juicy, with spicy tannins, a return of small red fruits and balsamic flavours." Luca Gardini

The uncompromisingly selected grapes come from the oldest vineyards of the winery. Dark and powerful, yet highly elegant aromas of wild cherries, spices, liquorice, cassis and leather with exceptional balance and purity. A radiant, cosmopolitan Italian. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, elegant ruby red. Fruity nose, red berry, freshly baked bread, some graphite, sealing wax, still very youthful. On the palate with a hearty attack and course, nobly embedded in the wood, punchy, clear, expressive, will age well, put away." Falstaff

"Delicate and perfumed with cherries and forest fruits as well as strawberries. A touch of coffee. Medium-bodied with crunchy fruit and fine tannins that give a silky texture and lovely length. Fruit with earth and spice. Some raw meat. Enticing now but will be even better in two or three years. Some whole berry and whole cluster fermentation with the sangiovese. Precise." James Suckling

"The 2021 Nardo is elegant, finessed and classy to the core. White pepper, chalk, mint, blood orange, dried flowers and cedar give the 2021 striking aromatic presence and energy. I don’t remember a Nardo with much translucent energy. Readers will want to cellar this for at least a few years." Vinous

Rich aromas of black and red berries such as black cherry and blueberry, joined by notes of ripe plum and tamarind. With further aeration then multi-layered notes of ivy, forest floor and freshly cut bark with hints of leather, sweet tobacco and liquorice. The full and silky body is framed by firm but well-integrated tannins supported by excellent acidity. Then, just before the long finish, ripe black fruits enriched by nutmeg and sweet spices. Great its Tuscan identity full of energy and liveliness. SUPERIORE.DE

"Ruby red. In the nose notes of small ripe red fruits, cassis, elderberries, violets with a hint of mint and liquorice. On the palate rich, juicy, fruity and with a hint of sweet spice. Persistent finish with well integrated tannins." Falstaff

"This supple red wine features aromas of blackcurrants, blackberries, plums, Mediterranean herbs and leather. It shows fine intensity and a lively structure that makes it clear and long on the earthy finish." Wine Spectator

"Currant and floral aromas with some cement and violets. Medium bodied, firm tannins and tangy acidity with lots of citrus peel. Drinkable now, but better in a year or two when it has mellowed." James Suckling

"The organic Camartina 2018 is 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Sangiovese. A consistent performer year after year, this Tuscan blend shows an exotic quality, with barbecue spice or steak sauce framing a core of smooth dark fruit. But the flavours don't stop there. They unfold in the form of balsamic herbs, blue flowers and grilled rosemary." Wine Advocate

"The 2018 Camartina is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese. Dark, brooding and quite closed, the 2018 is going to require cellaring and a good bit of patience, too. Dark-fleshed fruit, leather, spice, menthol and grilled herbs emerge with some coaxing. The Cabernet is quite evident in both the flavor profile and overall structure, which likely explains the wine's general feel today." Vinous

Since its debut in 1988, Il Blu has been the result of constant striving for perfection. With ultra-fine tannins and a smooth and full finish, this full-bodied wine captivates with its complexity and elegance. Il Blu is made from only the best hand-picked and selected grapes from the two vineyards in the Chianti region. Although Sangiovese plays a leading role in the blend, its influence and signature contribute significantly to the overall identity of this special wine.

Rich, unfathomable ruby red. Explosive aromas of black cherries and blackberries on the nose. The texture is wonderfully balanced, on the palate Il Blu presents itself fresh, persistently powerful and with wonderfully articulated tannin. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red with a subtly lightening rim. Spicy, noble nose of ripe sour cherries, blackcurrants and elegant use of wood. Juicy on the palate, with clear, well-developed fruit, with still young tannin, still needs some time, salty and punchy on the final." Falstaff

"This is an organic blend that enjoys near iconic status here in Tuscany. Thanks to its long track record, you can count on this Tuscan blended red to deliver top quality. The Brancaia 2020 Il Blu is a full-bodied red with sweet fruit flavors and a rich, velvety texture." Wine Advocate

"Shows a resinous note from the oak that envelops ripe black cherry, plum, leather, mineral and tobacco flavors. This red just keeps building in intensity and fruit on the palate, ending with a succulent, fruit- and spice-infused aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"The 2020 Il Blu is superb. Dark and mysterious at first, the Blu offers up an exotic mélange of blue fruits, mocha, new leather, licorice and lavender. Bright acids play off some of the more over leanings beautifully. Il Blu has long been one of the most distinctive wines in Chianti Classico. The 2020 is another fine edition of Il Blu." Vinous

"Attractive blueberries, brambles and cherries with spiced orange peel and lilac blossom, as well as some smoky dark spices and cocoa. Full, concentrated and very tense, with tightly packed but very polished and fine tannins. Shows a succulence and vibrancy to the fruit with a mineral, slightly chalky finish." James Suckling

Massimo Piccin is living the dream of giving new expression to Bordeaux growths from Bolgheri and producing wines that combine power, elegance and longevity. And so the Sapaio offers its full, vital and tannin-rich style magnificently and allows plenty of time for the finish. Once again, some of the grapes come from Bibbona, i.e. outside the Bolgheri DOC, so that this great wine can only bear the addition Toscana IGT.

Wonderful, animating bouquet of blackcurrants, blueberries, lavender and a delicate hint of chocolate. Firm on the palate, full-bodied, multi-layered with an attractive sweetness of extract, finely woven but very present tannins and a resting, seamless substance that leaves nothing to be desired right through to the long and flavoursome finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with a delicately brightening rim. Finely characterised nose with notes of blackberries and cassis, some cedar wood, fine spice. Shows a lot of present fruit on the palate, cassis and blackberry, opens up with dense tannins, firm pressure." Falstaff

"Reductive and restrained on the nose, with green pepper, violets and cassis infused with spice, it leads to a full, dense, extracted and fierce palate with almost dusty tannins. The wine is savoury, but above all very fresh, pithy and dynamic. The finish is still a little austere and needs more bottle ageing, but it deserves attention in the long term." Decanter

"Impressive depth with lots of dark cherries, black pepper, cocoa powder, roasted red pepper and grilled herbs on the nose. Full-bodied and intense on the palate with lots of silty tannins that meld with the dark fruits and fine spices. Long-lasting and very fine-grained. This wine should drink well over the next ten years." James Suckling

"The Podere Sapaio 2020 Sapaio needs a few moments in the glass before the wine starts to sing. You get a full bouquet that includes ripe fruit, balanced spices, sweet cinnamon, cloves and an earthy note of minerals or gravel. The fruit generously coats the palate with depth, firm structure, integrated tannins and further layers of dark fruit that unfold over time." Wine Advocate

"Rich, supple and expressive, offering black cherry, blackberry, violet, mineral and spice aromas and flavors. This red builds on the palate to the saturated finish, with lively acidity and civilized tannins. Shows fine balance and length, though this is still a bit compact in the end." Wine Spectator

Full of character and profound, the Sangiovese shows its feminine side with sweet and soft contours of cherry and blackberry. Enormously complex and perfectly balanced in flavour, velvety, fruity and with precisely proportioned tannins, infinitely long. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling ruby colour with a slight garnet sheen. Very intense and inviting nose, full of ripe wild raspberries and dark cherries, slightly smoky-mineral components in the background. Very dense on the palate, dark berry fruit, then unfortunately shows quite rough and coarse tannins in the back, earthy notes in the final." Falstaff

"The Carla 6 2018, the estate's best Sangiovese, is superb. Like all La Massa wines, it is deep, fleshy and very expressive. Juicy dark cherry, cedar wood, tobacco and spices can be found in this beautifully structured wine. The Carla 6 skilfully combines power with transparency." Vinous

"The Carla 6 2018 from Fattoria La Massa is 100% Sangiovese and comes from a 1.5-hectare vineyard planted in 1999 on slate and clay soils. This vintage shows a fleshy side with more fruit weight and concentration. The wine feels broad and rich on the palate, finishing with dark fruits, tobacco, crushed stone and even a hint of capers or green olives." Wine Advocate

"This red offers fruity, floral flavors signaled by aromas of ripe raspberry, cassis and violet, with earth, lavender and wild herb details. Elegant and silky, with firm tannins lurking beneath." Wine Spectator

"A very fine, pure Sangiovese from Super Tuscany with notes of gravel, blueberries, blackberries and black cherries. This wine has a real terroir character with balanced, intense and fine tannins and a long finish." James Suckling

Ornus dell'Ornellaia, the sweet, golden-coloured late harvest from Petit Manseng, has an extraordinarily complex bouquet with clear notes of ripe tropical fruit, dried apricots and blossom honey. The palate is multi-layered and intense with an impressive balance between suppleness, self-confident fruit and precise, lively acidity. In the endless finish, subtle notes of toasted oak and crème brûlée. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Ornellaia 2021 Ornus dell'Ornellaia is all Petit Manseng. This is an unexpected dessert wine with a note of mossy peat, forest floor or button mushroom that adds an extra layer to the bouquet. Otherwise, you get plenty of dried fruit, honey and candied fruit over a medium-weight finish. The acidity and the residual sugar of the wine are well balanced." Wine Advocate

"An elegant white dessert wine that exudes aromas of apricot, orange blossom, honey and caramel. The core flavours are rather grapey, with accents of honey and spices. The lively acidity keeps it fresh and long on the finish, where a hint of orange peel shines through." Wine Spectator

"Dried peach and apricot. A hint of caramel. Lemon peel and orange peel. Medium to full body, very sweet but so energetic with very low pH and lively acidity. Some phenolic flavour. Tension and excitement." James Suckling

Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Gualto is a dark, saturated and compact wine that shows a very unique interpretation of the Sangiovese grape. Camigliano has one of the best microclimates for a dark, velvety and opulent Brunello, which does very well in a highly balanced vintage like 2015. The plump fruit contrasts nicely with the firm tannins and acidity in the mouthfeel. All in all, this is a balanced wine with softness and extra richness. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright elegant ruby red. In the nose of ripe raspberries and wild strawberries, also shows nuances of pomegranate, light spice in the aftertaste. Opens smoothly on the palate with a fruity-sweet core, juicy, runs clear and round into the long final." Falstaff

"Offering ripeness and texture, the Camigliano 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Gualto is a fun and accessible wine. The bouquet is very expressive, even at this young stage. I got a charge out of those shifting aromas of dark fruit, ripe cherry, rosemary essence and a touch of eucalyptus oil that lift from the bouquet. Those balsam herb aromas are well defined, and they always appear with the prettiest intensity in the warmer vintages like 2015. Riserva Gualto shows good structure and enough acidity to keep those fruit flavors fresh and bright. Only 4,000 bottles were made." Wine Advocate

"Sleek and linear in profile, this red offers intense strawberry, raspberry, rose and wild herb flavors, with flourishes of mineral and tobacco. Solidly built, this leaves a long, resonant aftertaste of fruit, mineral and spice notes. Distinctive for its bright red fruit flavors." Wine Spectator

Piancornello's Riserva delivers a classic Brunello bouquet, combining earthy elements of leather and potting soil with dark plum fruit. These equally sweet and savoury sides are skilfully interwoven, and the rich, concentrated fruit helps to smooth out the full-bodied flavours. An action that is crowned with success, because as a result the Riserva presents itself with an impressive, enhanced overall intensity. The great interplay aptly reflects the beauty of Brunello. It is a magnificent wine with great potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Plum, dried-berry, cherry and rose-stem aromas follow through to a medium body with firm, silky tannins and a flavorful finish. Shows length and structure, yet a creamy mouth-feel. Lovely craftsmanship to this. Drink in 2024 and onwards." James Suckling

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva pulls you close with a bouquet of fresh tobacco and brown spice that evolves further to let dried cherries, roses and cedar shavings come to the fore. This is dark and youthfully inward, with dense waves of red and black fruits carried across velvety textures. Salty minerals combine with fine-grained tannins, creating tension toward the close, as brisk acids work to maintain balance, giving way to a long and structured yet fresh finale. The 2016 Riserva is a dark beauty of a wine that will require some time to reveal all of its charms." Vinous

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is faithful to Sangiovese with perfumed aromas of crushed flower, ferrous earth, redcurrant and grilled rosemary. This pretty wine is nicely balanced and elegant with a mid-weight approach and a terrific sense of aromatic purity and delivery. That underlying power does continue to the palate, where the wine is tightly stitched together and quite determined in length. The tannins do a good job of keeping the wine tight and focused. This is another impressive effort from Piancornello." Wine Advocate

Pacenti's Vecchie Vigne is every year a prime example of the high class of the appellation around the small village of Montalcino. But what can one say about this wine when it is young? It has the potential to be one of the best Brunellos of this outstanding vintage, but it is too early to sum up its true class. Only this much: Pacenti's Vecchie Vigne has everything that reveals the power, size and finesse of this vintage. Aromas of cherry, forest floor, leather, spices, tobacco and plenty of other primary notes of deep black fruit. Explosive, full-bodied and still very closed on the palate, the tannins firm and even stubborn at first - but you can feel the existing depth and balance with every sip, which will make it one of the most convincing and at the same time charming drops of the appellation with further bottle ageing. Impressive, too, is the power and structure that builds up in waves and that it will reveal with each further year of patience and maturity. SUPERIORE.DE

"Siro Pacenti's wines always offer a full concert. This one seems a bit more restrained at first, but opens up clearly with air. Complex aroma with ripe red and blue plums, blueberries, hibiscus, blue-purple flowers (lavender, iris), dark chocolate, behind it many balsamic nuances. Enormously powerful and exciting, very intense and full-bodied with fine-grained tannins and vibrant freshness." Weinwisser

"Giancarlo Pacenti's selection from old vines is also convincing in 2016: multi-layered bouquet of wild berries, black pepper and violets; polished in the mouth, with plenty of richness and crisp acidity, the tannins finely meshed and youthful, ending on notes of red berries, flowers and tobacco. Convincing, but should still mature." Vinum

"Sparkling, dark ruby red. Lots of dark berry fruit, mulberries, fresh dark plums, some cardamom. On the palate a lot of compact, grippy tannin, opens up in many layers, gripping and sturdy, grippy tannin forms the backbone of the wine, then drying wood in the final." Falstaff

"This wine opens to a nicely saturated appearance with dark berry, spice and tobacco. The wine is structured and firm, owning its tannins to both the fruit and the barrique. I do find the tannins to be astringent at this young stage, so I would hold off from opening this release for a long while. Like many of the other producers in Montalcino, Giancarlo Pacenti has captured the linearity and focus of the vintage, but his house style ultimately leaves a bigger mark on the fruit." Wine Advocate

"Broad and dense, this red reveals power behind the plum, cherry, earth, leather and underbrush flavors. Will need time to shed its beefy tannins, but the fruit keeps pace on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"Menthol, new leather, French oak and spiced blueberry aromas come to the forefront. Full bodied and concentrated, the firmly structured palate delivers dried cherry, grilled Porcini, vanilla and licorice set against assertive, close-grained tannins before closing on a coconut note. Give it time to flesh out in the bottle." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Vecchie Vigne from Siro Pacenti is dark and youthfully folded in upon itself. This pulls you closer to the glass, as it slowly reveals a nuanced display of olive-tinged blackberry and plum, with hints of mocha, balsamic spice and tanned leather. It's deeply textural, with velvety waves of ripe black fruits laced with tactile minerals, propelled by vibrant acids which carry its medium-bodied weight with ease. Youthfully dense, poised and geared for the long term, the 2016 Vecchie Vigne will require a good amount of cellaring to show all of its charms. Hints of licorice and violet florals echo throughout the long and structured finale." Vinous

"Such wonderful opulence and beauty. The nose shows dried flowers and minerals with blackberries and black cherries. Purity is the word. Full-bodied with incredible depth and structure and polished, silky tannins that envelop your palate. The length is really impressive." James Suckling

Here it is, the impressive first Gran Selezione from Riecine, showing more grace than muscle and delivering a Riecine-typical and very precise Burgundian interpretation of the Sangiovese grape.

The grapes come from the single vineyard of the same name in a 2.25 hectare Chianti Classico vineyard planted in 1971 with a density of 3,400 vines per hectare and situated on old terraces facing south. Riecine has leased these plots since the 1980s, and now the winery has managed to purchase this site, which is one of the best terroirs in the Chianti Classico area. So it is only logical that the 50th anniversary of the winery and the outstanding 2019 vintage should mark the debut of the new top wine. The bottles are numbered, just 3,233 0.Liters and 50 magnum bottles were bottled.

Spicy bouquet, delicate accents of vanilla and toasted bread that combine with notes of cherry, strawberry and violet. Rich in the mouth, with a solid structure and a long, polished final characterised by fruit, Mediterranean grass and a mineral note. Develops wonderfully - and should be one of the best Gran Selezione of the vintage "right off the bat". Congratulations on the anniversary! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with a gently brightening rim. Expressive nose, clear, initially of fine wild strawberries and some raspberries, red currants and delicate vegetal aromas in the aftertaste. Shows extremely elegant and polished on the palate, with tightly meshed, pithy tannin, very juicy on the back end, with minimally persistent tannin." Falstaff

"The 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna Gittori is a plump, juicy wine. Black cherry, leather, incense, tobacco and dried herbs meld together nicely in this attractive, curvy Gran Selezione. Deceptive in its mid-weight feel, the 2019 shows terrific depth and fine overall balance." Vinous

"Here is a new and exciting submission from Riecine in Gaiole in Chianti. The 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna Gittori is being released as a special way of commemorating the estate's 50th anniversary. The number 50 appears on the front label. This top-end wine comes off with dark fruit, austere spice and dry wood. Those are the aromas; however, the wine is surprisingly soft and silky in texture. It's a nice dual effect. 3,233 bottles and 50 magnums were released." Wine Advocate

"Blackberry, orange-peel and Spanish-cedar aromas. Exotic fruit, too. Full-bodied with seamless tannins and a very, very long finish. A benchmark Gran Selezione. Structured, yet fine at the same time." James Suckling

"Riecine's first ever Gran Selezione is a true beauty. It comes from the Gittori vineyard, a south-facing plot which sits above 500 metres, planted in 1971 - after renting it for 20 years, the estate was finally able to purchase it in 2019. The nose shows pure, precise fragrances of rose, wildflower, raspberry and spice. Fruit is at the fore, with integrated oak in the background – simply there to support. Youthfully plump and joyful at the moment, the succulent acidity and silky tannins bring vibrancy and alluring texture respectively. It has the depth and complexity worthy of Gran Selezione and is a glorious demonstration that the category isn't solely reserved for muscle-bound powerhouses." Decanter

Dark, translucent ruby red shimmers in the glass, looks elegant at first sight. Inviting scent of red and black fruit aromas, almost a forest berry mix with sour cherries. And then again this spiciness so typical for Tenuta di Valgiano, herbal and mineral, fresh and yet Mediterranean, simply incomparable. On the palate, full-bodied, very juicy, extract-sweet fruit, again accompanied by this mineral spiciness. Juicy, deep, with silky elegant tannin structure, with wonderfully balanced fruit-acid play. A wine with finesse and piquancy, length and ageing potential for a good fifteen to twenty years. This wine should be decanted and allowed to breathe in the carafe for at least one to two hours before drinking. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling ruby with a light garnet edge. Opens with emphatically ripe notes on the nose, of dried plums, lots of blackberry, some cassis. Finely woven tannin on the palate, builds up in many layers, plus well-integrated sweet melting, long and smooth." Falstaff

"The 2017 Tenuta di Valgiano is dense, powerful and beautifully resonant in the glass. There's plenty of richness, but also a feeling of translucence I find quite intriguing. Sweet dried cherry, cedar, tobacco, mint and dried flowers open with a bit of coaxing. The 2017 is a gorgeous wine." Vinous

"The aromas of violets, berries, tar and sandalwood give a perfumed and subtle impression. Full-bodied with a firm, racy tannin structure and a long, curated finish. Shows freshness and tension for this hot vintage. Serious. Drink after 2025." James Suckling

Ugolaia is a 1.7-hectare, south-west-facing plot with a view of the sea, where the temperature fluctuations between day and night are considerable. The estate's oldest vines grow here on red iron soil.

Lively, full red colour. Cool notes of watercress and mint complement fresh red cherries and crunchy chocolate-covered redcurrants. Rich, subtly sweet and very supple on the palate, with a juicy brightness that highlights the excellent cut and clarity of its red fruit and floral flavours. The characterful finish is refreshing with its lingering violet flavour. Very polished and velvety at the same time, a great wine every year. SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful berry nose, spiced up with notes of pepper and leather; the attack is compact, the tannins robust, the acidity noticeable, has fullness, power and juice. The beguiling final completes the perfect impression." Vinum

"Brilliant, deep ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Mineral and brooding on the nose and still quite closed. Lots of soft yet spicy fruit. Still somewhat powerful at the moment, but very promising and with firm but very fine tannins. Long, complex and juicy finish. Stunning, but still far from mature." Jancis Robinson

"Rich ruby colour with a slightly brightening garnet rim. Inviting, rich nose with lots of fleshy fruit, cloves, blackberries and plums. Shows beautifully present fruit on the palate, round and balanced, grippy, dense tannins, lingers for a long time, full-bodied." Falstaff

"The Brunello di Montalcino Ugolaia 2017 comes from a hot and very dry vintage and shows a dark garnet red colour with particular concentration and texture. The bouquet smells of dark fruits, baked plums and roasted spices. The Ugolaia is complex and rich, but despite the intensity of the vintage, the mouthfeel is of medium length and the wine finishes with a bright freshness." Wine Advocate

"The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Ugolaia smells of dried roses and cherries as well as cinnamon and cloves in the glass. It feels almost velvety, with a dense wave of tart wild berries accompanied by a hint of sour citrus and balsamic spice. Nuances of plum and liquorice linger as the 2017 finishes structured, but not austere, with hints of mocha and redcurrant. The Ugolaia is another example of Lisini's success in this difficult vintage. Nevertheless, it will need a few more years to fully develop." Vinous

"Full-bodied with ripe and dried cherries, spiced plums, chocolate and blueberries, supported by polished tannins. Also well-integrated spices and dried flowers. Ripe and expansive, with a soft and supple texture that makes it very approachable and satisfying." James Suckling

"Lisini's single-vineyard selection shows its usual exotic side in 2017. It opens with an intoxicating blend of incense, juniper, pressed lilac and lavender. There's also that polished wood nuance that I associate with the wine's six months of ageing in chestnut barrels. On the palate, it is even denser than the estate's Brunello annata, showing flavours of myrtle and redcurrant underpinned by an appetising salty core. The powerful tannins require another year in the bottle, but are admirably voluptuous. Undoubtedly one of the successes of the vintage." Decanter

"The nose takes you to a forest cabin, full of savory, umami aromas of damp earth, leather and mushrooms, with sharper notes of balsamic and Luxardo cherries coming through. On the palate, the cherry element freshens and brightens, and is lifted by undertones of orange and anise, along with springy tannins and buoyant acid." Wine Enthusiast

"Lush and fruity, this red wine offers flavours of cherries, raspberries, eucalyptus, wild rosemary and minerals, supported by a lively acidity and dense, refined tannins. It offers a balanced overall picture with a long, tasty aftertaste characterised by fruity and mineral elements." Wine Spectator