Wines from Tuscany

Just 3,500 bottles are produced from the oldest vines of the Salco vineyard and are only sold in the best vintages. In the glass, we are delighted by an extremely elegant Sangiovese with a very harmonious texture and very classic, earthy-spicy notes. SUPERIORE.DE

"Cherries and chocolate jump off the nose before earthy aromas take over, from mushrooms to dirt to underbrush and moss. The palate echoes these notes, carrying them through a long mocha-infused finish with rigid, durable tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"The haunting dark and floral 2019 Nobile di Montepulciano Vecchie Viti del Salco combines exotic spices with crushed dried flowers, spiced cherries and ginger nuances. It is extremely silky, with no hard edges in sight. A polished wave of ripe red berries washes over the palate, leaving a hint of minerality and fine tannins. The 2019 is powerful and incredibly long, with a primary concentration that lasts until the long and structured final. Made from 100% Prugnolo Gentile (Sangiovese) from thirty-five year old vines, it's a real stunner." Vinous

Fuligni's 2019 Brunello shows balance and symmetry with plenty of primary vigour to ensure longevity in the cellar. The bouquet opens with dark plums, dried raspberries, spices, aniseed and grilled herbs - especially lavender and rosemary. The palate is medium-bodied, beautifully balanced, with a complex weave of fruit, minerals and tannins. It is disempoweringly generous and has a subtle opulence, but never weighs down the palate. The powerful, refined tannins are finely powdered and the penetrating acidity radiates evenly but not obtrusively. Notes of liquorice, violets, blood orange and iron emerge at the end. Long-lasting and effortlessly confident, as you would expect from Fuligni! SUPERIORE.DE

"Pleasant appearance with a nose of black berries and flowers, also tobacco notes; powerful on the palate, the tannins robust, combines character with minerality and elegance. Can mature." Vinum

"Complex, deeply layered bouquet with dark cherry, earthy nuances, blue berries and a reassuringly cool vein. Super juicy palate, incredibly multi-layered with a very juicy vein, linear orientation, super spicy, vinified in the traditional style, lingers forever with herbal, dark fruity and floral notes. One of the best of the tasting!" Weinwisser

"Sparkling ruby-garnet colour with a brightening rim. Aromas of black cherries and blackberries on the nose, very clear, some plums, a hint of leather in the background. Firm, dense tannins, shows a lot of tension and pressure, dark berry fruit on the finish, great development potential." Falstaff

"Ripe, deep ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Slumbering nose with exotic spice notes on the nose. Still in its infancy, but polished with fine-grained tannins that need more time. Long, finely aromatic finish of cherries and raspberries. So supple and elegant and at the same time not unfocussed. Carries its 15 % effortlessly. Real substance, but not heavy." Jancis Robinson

"Rich, refreshing and complex, with flavours of cherry, plum, earth, leather and minerals. This red wine is lively, with notes of liquorice and tamarind. Best of all is the ripe fruit, supple texture and resonant tannins that extend to a white pepper finish." Wine Spectator

"The Fuligni 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is rich in dark fruit, balanced by spicy notes of tobacco leaf and cigar ash, and beautifully concentrated. After a short time, the bouquet reveals a floral intermezzo with dried rose petals and a tropical note of hibiscus. This wine shows many facets, all of which are very pleasant and work together. The tannins are dusty and finely structured with a hint of powdery cocoa on the finish." Wine Advocate

"Dusty and floral, the 2019 Brunello di Montalcino opens with a fragrant blend of dried roses, cherries, mint and lavender candy. On the palate, it is elegant and seamlessly silky, enveloping the senses with ripe red berry fruits contrasted by a bitter hint of cloves. A core of vibrant acidity provides a beautiful balance, while a web of fine tannins saturates the palate and leaves a pleasant sensation of chewiness. The 2019 is classic through and through." Vinous

"This historic and reliable winery does not disappoint in 2019. It is expressive rather than austere and will reveal more with time. But the flavours - a striking fusion of chestnut forest and polished wood with fennel and spiced plums - are already so enticing. It fills the mouth with glossy red berries and pressed violets, and after an initial caress, the tight-knit tannins intensify on the palate and remain balanced in volume. A complex and detailed wine with great depth." Decanter

"Perfumed with aromas of sweet berries, fresh flowers and cedar wood, leading to a medium-bodied palate with firm and chewy tannins and a fresh finish. Very noble and structured. Extremely long. Give it time to open up." James Suckling

"Orthodox in flavour and vinification, a Brunello of intensity and tension. Notes of pomegranate on the nose, with hints of eucalyptus and juniper, then lemon thyme on the finish. Salty, juicy tannins on the finish, with balsamic notes and pomegranate." Luca Gardini

Camartina 2016 has exceptional finesse and elegance. Elegant, deep ruby red. 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

"Shiny, dense ruby. Opens on the nose with fine spicy notes, cinnamon blossom and clove, followed by cassis and plum. Substantial and powerful on the attack, opens with many layers of present tannin, lots of juicy berry fruit." Falstaff

"Very pretty and precise with tight tannins and polish. It's linear and compact with blackberry, blackcurrant and cherry character. Racy and polished." James Suckling

"Ripe, sweet black currant, black cherry, iron, leather and tobacco flavors mingle in this tightly-wound red. Balanced, dense and remains focused and persistent on the lingering finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2016 Camartina is superb. As always, Camartina is 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Sangiovese, all from Greve's Ruffoli district, where Querciabella is located. At this stage in its development, the Camartina is driven by Sangiovese in its red-toned fruit, aromatics and acid profile. The 2016 is vibrant, saline and full of energy. I am so intrigued to see how it develops in bottle." Vinous

The first Caggiole was launched in 1988 and disappeared again as early as 1995, because the flagship Asinone simply met consumers' tastes better. Today - after more than 20 years of abstinence - the Nobile Le Caggiole is back on the market as the new first wine of the house. Estate owner Dott. Federico Carletti has dedicated this masterpiece to his wife Anna - setting a new benchmark for Poliziano and the entire denomination. We are very pleased to present this strictly limited top wine!

Salty, mineral and refined. Le Caggiole represents the terroir and the grape variety Sangiovese (Prugnolo Gentile) like no other wine of the house. It is almost light-footed, svelte, delicate and at the same time very fine. It is the result of many years of work in selecting the right Sangiovese clones in the single vineyard of the same name, Le Caggiole, which consists of 4 plots. SUPERIORE.DE

"Radiant, elegant ruby red with a delicately lightening rim. Expressive and fragrant nose of ripe heart cherries, wild strawberries, noble use of wood and fine spices in the background. Very polished and juicy on the palate, tightly woven tannins coat the hearty fruit, radiant and finesse-rich, still a little grippy on the final." Falstaff

"The 2018 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Le Caggiole lifts up with a display like human catnip. A pleasant air of vanilla custard accentuates sweet smoke, grilled sage, cocoa and rum-soaked cherries. It’s silky and polished in feel yet finessed with an almost weightless aura, showing decidedly ripe plum and hints of candied citrus to balance. The 2018 finishes long and gently tannic, with inner tobacco and sweet herbal tones lingering incredibly long. While the nose is a bit candied in personality, the 2018 possesses fantastic harmony within. I'm very interested to see what a few years of cellaring might do." Vinous

"Features a fine balance between the cherry, currant, earth, wild thyme and eucalyptus flavors, with a firm backbone of tannins and juicy acidity. Well-delineated and long, this red is complex and refined." Wine Spectator

"A firm and fine Vino Nobile with cherry, berry and lightly earthy aromas. Crushed stone. Medium body. Linear finish. A little tight now. Give it two or three years. Try after 2024." 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, chewy 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

Deep dark ruby with bright garnet reflections. Impressive, deep bouquet of dried fruits, cloves, nutmeg and roasted almonds to cola, liquorice and pressed rose petals. In the drink, it unfolds its spectacular diversity and opulence paired with a fine fruit sweetness. Le Lucere 2016 has an exceptional race and personality and has catapulted itself fully into the top group of the appellation with this exceptional vintage. SUPERIORE.DE

"Surrounded by forest, Le Lucére is an east-facing amphitheatre on predominantly silty soil. While it shares some of the woodland character of the estate Brunello, there's a distinct floral personality to this: rose and violet are accentuated by a touch of volatile acidity. Ample, concentrated and rich, red cherry flavours are laced with smoky toasted oak, shored up by lots of grainy tannins." Decanter

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Le Lucere takes things to a darker and more earthy place. Flowery undergrowth, wet stone and tobacco lift from the glass, taking on fresher notes of raspberry and sage over time. There's a gorgeous interplay of velvety textures, salty minerals and lifting acidity in the mouth, as well as fine tannins which blend to create a classically balanced impression. Red fruits linger along with hints of licorice and minty herbs, while the structure of the 2016 Le Lucere takes a back seat through the finale. This is a very well constructed effort that should excel over the medium term." Vinous

"This special selection of fruit from San Filippo is characterized by more intensity and concentration compared to the estate's classic Brunello. In this vintage, I also discovered a greater level of Sangiovese purity and direction, thanks to tight berry tones, dusty mineral, spice and balsam herb. To the palate, the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino le Lucére delivers succulent fruit and even a touch of sweetness, all powered by tannins, clearly driven by both the oak and the fruit itself." Wine Advocate

"This is rich and very linear at the same time, with cherry, tile, walnut and light chocolate aromas. Some mahogany. Very complex. Full-bodied, yet tight and reserved with a very, very long finish. Really gorgeous." James Suckling

"This red is laden with balsamic aromas and flavors of juniper, rosemary and rose, plus black currant and raspberry fruit. There's an underlying mineral element, along with firm, mature tannins that enhance the overall elegance and finesse." Wine Spectator

The grapes for this remarkably Burgundian Gran Selezione come from the single vineyard of the same name in a 2.25-hectare Chianti Classico vineyard, which was planted in 1971 with a density of 3,400 vines per hectare and is south-facing on old terraces. Riecine has leased these plots since the 1980s, and in the 2019 debut vintage, the winery succeeded in acquiring this site, which is one of the best terroirs in the Chianti Classico region. The bottles are numbered and around 4,000 bottles and 50 magnums are bottled each year.

Spicy bouquet, delicate accents of vanilla and toasted bread, which combine with notes of cherry, strawberry and violet. Rich on the palate, with a solid structure and a long, polished final characterised by fruit, Mediterranean grass and a mineral note. Wonderful ageing potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"The second vintage of Riecine's Gran Selezione is of captivating beauty. The fragrance plays between fresh red berry fruit and fine floral notes, cranberries and blood oranges resonate on the palate, silky, brilliant, gentle and demanding in character at the same time, has a lot of freshness and great depth, fabulous elegance with a hint of candied lavender flowers on the finish. Great cinema." Weinwisser

"Brilliant, lively ruby red colour. On the nose, initially candle wax, then ripe cherries and forest fruits, reminiscent of ripe watermelon, with a second aftertaste of dark spices, some sealing wax and leather. Compact and tightly woven on the palate, polished on the tongue, very juicy and deep, with a clear fruit final." Falstaff

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2020 Vigna Gittori from the vineyards of Gaiole is aromatic, racy and very expressive. Crushed flowers, blood orange, white pepper and mint lend this medium-bodied, silky Gran Selezione a remarkable aromatic presence. The polished tannins round off the whole in style." Vinous

"The dense tannins of this red wine support flavours of cherry, raspberry, iron and eucalyptus. The lively acidity keeps it concentrated on the long-lasting finish. Still a little compact now, it should develop well over the next few years." Wine Spectator

"Presented in a handsome, redesigned bottle with a black wax capsule, the Riecine 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna Gittori takes a different approach to the hot vintage. It offers flavours that feel anything but overripe and in fact evoke cooler elements of wild berries, peat moss, perfumed violets, flint, campfire ash and crushed white pepper. With this more restrained ripeness comes more spice and texture from oak ageing. This wine shows a beautiful elegance." Wine Advocate

"Such purity and beauty with aromas and flavours of roses, peaches, citrus and cherries. Medium-bodied, with ultra-fine tannins that run the length of the wine. Crisp and refined. It lasts for minutes. So drinkable and beautiful now, but it will improve." James Suckling

"The latest, juicy novelty of the house, from the vineyard of the same name and refined vinification and maturation. Very balsamic on the nose, black cherry under spirits, wild rosemary and hints of nutmeg. The sip is iodised, with a fruity return and spicy sensations." Luca Gardini

Batàr is undoubtedly reminiscent of Burgundy, but with unmistakable Tuscan authenticity. Vintage after vintage, Querciabella's forward-thinking winemaking has moved beyond the hedonistic idea of growing foreign, albeit noble, white grapes in a stronghold of red wines to focus on expressing a particular sense of place. The Batàr's inherent vitality and classic minerality clearly come from the high altitude vineyards of Ruffoli and the Galestro soils typical of the best Chianti Classico sites.

Batàr's legendary ability to defy age and improve over time requires a careful combination of hand-picked Chardonnay and Pinot Bianco grapes, timely micro-vinification and patient ageing in barrel. The long time on the lees in high-quality French barriques allows the individual lots to develop their best expression. Only when the optimal maturation is complete is the final assemblage put together through extensive sampling. Further maturation in the bottle before release seals the multi-layered texture that is the proverbial mouthfeel of Batàr.

Exudes elegant aromas of jasmine, peach and sweet tropical fruits and a lively minerality. Batàr secures its many admirers with great finesse and opulent diversity and has undoubtedly been one of Italy's best white wines for decades! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright light gold. In the nose peppermint, cream, some hazelnut, in the reverberation fine fumé and ripe stone fruit. Smooth and round on the palate, spreads creamy and pleasantly over the tongue, balanced, a little set in the final, still needs time." Falstaff

"The 2020 Batàr, Querciabella's white Chardonnay/White Burgundy, is infused with notes of tangerine oil, jasmine, spices and pear. Later, light tropical accents are added, giving the whole wine a wonderful nuance. The switch to high altitude vineyards and the earlier harvest result in a Batàr that has great freshness and style." Vinous

"The organic Batàr 2020 offers fresh, citrusy notes with lemon curd and candied peach. This barrel-aged white wine also offers medium density and lots of fruit, saffron and light spice. It finishes with fresh acidity." Wine Advocate

"Intense nose of cedar, smoked almonds, mango puree, papaya and lemon pie. Full-bodied, dense and creamy with delicious praline and pie crust character, balanced by just the right amount of lemony acidity." James Suckling

"The 2020 vintage is more herbal than usual, with sage, thyme and a citrussy character, then its typical peach kernel core. The attack is full, silky, concentrated and textured, yet vibrant on the finish.One of the most sought after white wines of Italy, with proven ability to age, Batàr originates from vineyards in Ruffoli, in Greve in Chianti, some of which reach 600m. The Chardonnay and Pinot Bianco grapes are fermented and aged for nine months in French oak. It's a very classic white SuperTuscan (first vintage was 1988) with a stylish Corton-Charlemagne attitude." Decanter

The Riserva Lupi e Sirene (Wolves and Mermaids) label is reminiscent of the good old days when Podere le Ripi was so remote that the howling of the wolves was the only sound you could hear at night.

Light, delicate ruby red colour that beautifully interprets the typical transparency of Brunello and Sangiovese Grosso. Fine bouquet of small red fruits, skilfully surrounded by earthy and mineral notes. On the palate, it offers a fascinating purity and energy without ever being excessive. Its linear body is so fluid and polished that it captures the attention of all the senses for a very long time. Lupi e Sirene is the most elegant and refined of the estate's impressive Brunello range. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, shiny ruby red colour. Inviting nose of dark cherries, rich forest fruits, some leather, graphite and candle wax. Present on the palate, accessible and polished with superbly developed fruit, plus noble, earthy tannins, comes in several layers, can age, is already a pleasure to drink." Falstaff

"A tantalising blend of dusty rose, cinnamon and clove gives way to traces of mint and dried strawberries as the sweetly spiced Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Lupi e Sirene 2018 blossoms in the glass. This is pure elegance, with velvety textures led by fresh acidity and polished red and blue fruits that are accompanied by a spicy herbal flavour towards the end. The balance here is otherworldly. The 2018 finishes with an unexpected vibrancy, despite a web of fine tannins that continue to hum as the liquorice notes slowly fade. Full of character and holding its power in reserve, the 2018 is a textural thrill ride. It is on a beautiful but slow path to maturity." Vinous

Millecento Riserva from the dream vintage 2016 unfolds in the glass with hints of mocha, sweet cherry and plum, tobacco and a touch of fresh mint. There is a sense of opulence, but also of sophistication, as the texture of ripe red fruits with salty mineral notes glides across the palate, taking on a sweet herbal note towards the end. It finishes with a layer of fine tannins and acidic citrus, while tart wild berries and a hint of exotic spices linger. This wine still has several years of development ahead of it, but its refined blend of richness and elegance can already be experienced today. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red. In the nose of ripe cherries, a hint of marzipan, dried roses, then strawberries in the aftertaste, noble resinous tones round off the bouquet. On the palate with great fruit sweetness and hearty course, shows dancing play, builds up in many layers, independent and long." Falstaff

"Cecilia Leoneschi has been the winemaker at Castiglion del Bosco since Massimo Ferragamo purchased the estate in 2003. She has been instrumental in converting the estate to organic practices, with official certification achieved in 2016. Grilled nut, cedar and vanilla permeate the wild strawberry-soaked nose. The palate is concentrated and confidently extracted. Dry, grippy tannins clutch the mouth, followed closely by a wash of lip-smacking acidity. Savoury with compelling underbrush accents, there is plenty brewing here." Decanter

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Millecento is dark and animalistic with musky black currants, mocha, rosemary and underbrush lifted by a hint of camphor. This is decidedly salty and mineral in character, offsetting its silky textures with tart wild berries tinged with sour citrus, as grippy tannins mount toward the close. Balsam herbs, cocoa and hints of licorice linger incredibly long over a coating of fine-grained tannins through the heroically structured finale. There’s already so much going on here, but with cellaring, I expect even more." Vinous

"The Castiglion del Bosco 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Millecento 1100 is the aspirational wine in this portfolio. It aims high and showcases the carefully manicured approach of the winemaking team in both the vineyard and the winery. This is a grand vintage with firm structure, lots of fruit brightness, depth and freshness. You should expect balanced intensity at this price point, and you get it." Wine Advocate

"Blueberries and cherries with hints of cedar and spice, as well as plenty of mixed dried flowers, including violets. Some graphite and stone, too. Medium-to full-bodied with racy tannins and a long, long finish. It’s linear and complete, with lovely elegance and structure. Try after 2024." James Suckling

"This red reveals both power and finesse, with intense aromas of truffle, black currant, violet and iron leading off, backed by saturated dark berry fruit, floral, leather and tobacco flavors. Big, muscular tannins grab hold of the finish, with ample fruit in reserve. Best from 2026 through 2046." Wine Spectator

Andrea Franchetti began positioning Palazzi as an equal red alongside his flagship Tenuta di Trinoro in the 1990s, with the aim of producing two exceptional wines that evoke the left and right banks of Bordeaux.

Just three words: power, intensity and concentration. With a very manageable production of 1,660 bottles, here comes a full-throttle Tuscan wine that exudes generous black fruit, spice and sweet tobacco all the time. There is also black cherry and plum, which give the wine soft contours and sweetness. On the palate, it is firm, well-structured and delights with a mouth-filling richness that is second to none. Take a good piece of red meat, marinate it in rosemary and olive oil before heading to the charcoal grill and then embark on this monumental adventure. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich ruby with a black core. Intense and inviting nose with notes of cocoa, blackberry, plum and fine spices. Dense and concentrated on the palate, very lush, grippy, savoury tannins, rich tobacco on the long final." Falstaff

"This vibrant red is pure and well-defined, with cherry, raspberry and floral aromas and flavors detailed by iron and wild thyme, supported from dense yet refined tannins. Excellent length." Wine Spectator

"The Tenuta di Trinoro 2019 Palazzi is a pure expression of Merlot with incoming fruit from the Palazzi vineyard that is characterized by dense clay soils. The wine's intensity is what stands out most, and that power is fueled by lovely nuances of black fruit, spice, sweet tobacco and baker's chocolate. Palazzi excels in terms of mouthfeel. The smooth richness and deep softness achieved here is only possible with this grape. Furthermore, it seems only possible in this spectacular, sun-drenched corner of undiscovered Tuscany known as Sarteano." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Palazzi is a classic Trinoro wine, with maybe a bit less bombastic intensity than some of the earlier wines, but all of the seamless elegance that has long made these reds so compelling. All the elements are wonderfully put together in the 2019, a wine that impresses with its mix of elegance, flamboyant intensity and sheer allure. I loved it." Vinous

A modernist by the book. Balanced and impressive at the same time. 2018 Rennina with powerful aromas and flavours of violets, black cherries, tobacco and menthol. The tannins are firm yet beautifully integrated. Rennina is a complex, medium-bodied wine, which has a great positive influence on its ageing potential and makes it a success story. SUPERIORE.DE

"Shiny ruby-garnet. Finely marked nose with notes of raspberry and goji berries, liquorice in the background. Full-bodied and dense on the palate, lots of tightly woven tannin embedded in beautiful melting, unfolds smoothly, firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

Rennina" combines three neighbouring plots with different soils, all of which contribute to the final expression. The sandy soil, rich in marine fossils, produces elegant fragrances, while the Galestro delivers structured tannins. A captivating bouquet captures the dusty landscape and sweet, oily herbs of Tuscany. Flavours of cherry and violet saturate the palate, and beautifully integrated oak joins the long, chalky tannins. Spicy and sweet on the finish." Decanter

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Rennina is delicate and unobtrusive in the glass with a pleasant earthy blend of dried strawberry, rose and clove nuances. It embraces a silky fruit texture with a core of vibrant acidity and salty minerals in an unbound Brunello of pure elegance. It finishes with ample tannins but also remarkable freshness that lingers on notes of red plum, mocha and tobacco. This harmonious vintage of Rennina will develop beautifully in collectors' cellars." Vinous

"Harmonious and with an almost creamy texture, this red wine shows aromas and flavours of cherry, raspberry, plum, clay, almond and black pepper. On the finish, it shows a pleasant bitterness that lasts until the end." Wine Spectator

"Rennina, made from fruit from three vineyards with very different soil profiles, maintains its distinct personality with elegant aromas of red fruits, wild berries, cassis, balsamic herbs and toasted almonds. This vintage shows hints of baked clay or black olive, highlighting the warm conditions of the vintage. The wine is generous in mouthfeel, with a lovely richness that remains graceful at the same time." Wine Advocate

"Complex, wild and energetic with an intellectual array of fresh truffles, blackberries, bark, cardamom, dried porcini mushrooms, miso and rosemary. Full-bodied yet agile, with firm, taut tannins and sharp acidity. Powerful and dense. Needs a few years to open up. Taste after 2025." James Suckling

Elisabetta Geppetti's Saffredi is one of Italy's great red wines every year, full of elegance! Dark, polished ruby red colour with purple-violet edges. The explosive aroma of blackcurrants, blackberries, plums, violets and oak spices is accompanied by fascinating spicy, ethereal and wonderfully floral accents with earthy tobacco notes. Dense and velvety on the palate, framed by firm tannins and a juicy freshness that leads the wine full of energy into an endless finish. The flavour profile, which is very typical of Saffredi, is wonderfully balanced, yet multi-layered and very focused with its spiciness. Saffredi 2021 is a genuine and multi-dimensional beauty that should mature for a few more years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Complex, elegant bouquet with fine concentration and precisely contoured fruit body, a basket of blue berries and ripe red cherries, plus a floral backdrop, violets, Mediterranean herbs and maquis as well as undergrowth. Polished, clear and radiant on the palate, juicy and tightly woven with velvety, super-fine tannins, a radiant and elegant Saffredi." Weinwisser

"Spicy-berry perfume, cassis, lots of dark fruit flavours, also nuances of black pepper; the attack is compact, the tannins fine-grained, carried by a soft acidity, finishes long and multi-faceted. Also very successful in this vintage." Vinum

"Dark ruby red core with purple nuances. Blackcurrant and mulberry on the nose, on damp earth, dark chocolate and alabaster. Dense on the palate, with tightly woven tannins, precise fear, comes in many layers, powerful, but with great finesse and incredibly long." Falstaff

"The Fattoria le Pupille 2021 Saffredi offers a seamless integration of dark fruit flavours that segue directly into spice, Tuscan cigar and earthy orris root. This vintage is compact and firm, especially in terms of mouthfeel, and there are graceful floral tones to close." Wine Advocate

"This pure, intense red wine shows aromas and flavours of blackcurrants, blackberries, blueberries and violets, underlined by graphite and wild herbs. Very tightly wound, even racy, with invigorating acidity and refined tannins, this noble red wine leans more towards the elegant side, with a great harmony and length." Wine Spectator

"The 2021 Saffredi is one of the most vivid, profoundly beautiful wines I have ever tasted from Elisabetta Geppetti. Dark, layered and resonant, the 2021 offers tons of depth and yet remains wonderfully light on its feet. There is a level of finesse here I have never seen before in Saffredi. Blackberry, espresso, lavender, new leather and incense build over time, but it is the wine’s total sense of harmony that leaves me speechless. The 2021 is not a powerhouse—not an obvious wine. For those who can give this time in the glass, it’s a total stunner." Vinous

"Fascinating aromas of sandalwood, lavender, sage and blackcurrant. Mint and spearmint. Pencil shavings. Also light coffee bean. Medium to full body with ultra-fine tannins. Lasts for minutes. Already so approachable now, but it will age beautifully. Best after 2026 and beyond." James Suckling

"The symbolic wine of the house, the first to put the winery and the region "on the map". Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot, nose of small black fruits, notes of laurel, mint and Mediterranean herbs, taut and dense drink, with salty tannins, closes with a fruity and oily return." Luca Gardini

Le Macioche is a jewel of a vineyard with five hectares of vines and a picturesque forester's house surrounded by cypress trees. Cotarellas Riserva from the top 2016 vintage has a lot to offer and is characterised by firm, concentrated tannins and dense fruit. Forest berries, medicinal herbs, cola and potting soil on the nose. On the palate, red plums, dried cherries and lemon juice provide complexity and depth alongside the beautiful fruit centre. This is followed by a full body, perfect fine-grained tannins and a subtle, elegant final. Despite its complexity, this Riserva also displays a certain intensity and rigour. The bottles are numbered, less than 100 magnum bottles were bottled. SUPERIORE.DE

"Violet, camphor and mocha aromas pour from the glass, along with a hint of baked plum. The palate is soft and full-bodied, with fleshy flavours of black cherries, liquorice and tobacco as well as velvety tannins. It is already drinking well, but will continue to give pleasure for several years." Wine Enthusiast

"Just a stone's throw from the famous Salicutti winery, Le Macioche is a well-ventilated estate with warm, south-east to south-west facing vineyards. The scent of wild strawberries, cedar wood and rooibos tea is reminiscent of the altitude. The wine is fluid and light on its feet, with juicy acidity and finesse supported by terracotta-like tannins. A hint of toast marries with crisp redcurrants. It's ready to drink now, but its creeping depth will carry it for over a decade. There's already a fair amount of sediment, so make sure you decant it." Decanter

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva presents a dusty bouquet, where cedar shavings and dried roses pave the way to spiced cherries and a hint of sweet smoke. The wine feels light and delicate, with a silky texture that carries a vibrant mix of pure plum and strawberry fruit across the palate. The tannins kick in late and overwhelm the senses until the final, while inner flowers echo over a tactile layer of savoury minerals. This wine is absolutely classic, but it needs time to unwind. Very well done!" Vinous

"Le Macioche's 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Cotarella (sealed with a red wax capsule) is a polished expression of Sangiovese with beautifully ripened fruit framed by oak toast, spice and campfire ash. The wine shows a sweet, velvety side with dried cherry and redcurrant flavours, but these secondary oak influences play only a supporting role. The texture and length of the wine are further enhanced by cellar ageing. Any more toast would be too much." Wine Advocate

"Rich and dense, with flavours of cherries, raspberries, blackcurrants, violets, minerals and spices. The backbone of acidity provides definition and keeps this red wine lively from start to finish. Balanced, long and with outstanding potential." Wine Spectator

Balisca is made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from the winery's vineyards in Panzano. It is deep, rich and very layered, exuding tremendous purity from start to finish. The notes of the grape variety are very finely sketched in a smooth, very expressive wine with lots of personality and character. If there was any doubt that barrel fermentation works better for Cabernet Sauvignon than for Sangiovese, Balisca is proof. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red with a drop of violet. In the nose first after noble woods, then opens on grated blackcurrants, cold smoke, noble vanilla, holds back altogether and invites nevertheless. On the palate with concentration and spice, stretches grippingly across the tongue, with tightly woven tannin, savoury and with beautiful juiciness, long final, after wild berries." Falstaff

"The Cabernet Sauvignon once used in the IGT Gagliole has been spun off to create this wine. The 2018 Balisca draws its organic fruit from Panzano, although new vineyard sites near Badia a Passignano and the charming Cappella dei Pesci could enter the program. The fruit is fermented and aged in oak to produce a tightly knit, full-bodied texture that prizes freshness, density and linearity. The aromas are focused and bright with dark fruit, campfire ash and Mediterranean herb." Wine Advocate

"The 2018 Balisca is a tiny production of 1,500 bottles, 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from Panzano, one of the spots in Chianti Classico where Cabernet works well. Blackberry, sage, menthol, licorice abound. This is a wine of tremendous character and distinction. I am so curious to see how this ages. The purity of the fruit is remarkable, but the aromatics need time to develop." Vinous

Angelo Gaja makes his wines with broad brushstrokes that form shapes of perfect harmony and grandeur, he makes them modern but never too fashionable. Rennina 2019 is a dark, lush and juicy red wine with a seamless overall integration. On the palate, bold fruit, oak spice, acidity and a well-knit tannin hold the overall composition together in an overwhelming and warm embrace. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium to deep ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Great nose of cherry with a hint of raspberry, becomes increasingly perfumed with aeration. The pinch of oak adds complexity. Juicy and polished with fresh, soft red fruit and a layer of fine-grained tannins. Energetic and direct." Jancis Robinson

"The Brunello di Montalcino Rennina 2019 captivates the taster with a beguiling blend of crushed ash stones and grilled herbs, which fade into red plums and purple pastilles. On the palate, it presents a silky texture and a wiry framework that gives it a sultry character. Salty mineral tones complicate the tart red berry fruits. Edgy tannins gather towards the end, accompanied by orange notes and a pleasant bitterness that lingers. At the moment, the Rennina is only on its feet, but I am very excited to see where this extremely flavoursome Brunello will develop." Vinous

"A powerful red, boasting macerated cherry, orange peel, plum, lavender, iron and eucalyptus flavors. Dense, dusty tannins emerge as this plays out on the long finish. Needs time." Wine Spectator

"Aromas of sweet cherries, roses, sweet tobacco and a hint of marmalade. Full and multi-layered. Lots of fruit. Juicy finish. Cheesy at the end and with air it becomes complex and very structured. Store it for a while. Best after 2027." James Suckling

"The Rennina bottling comes from three vineyards directly adjacent to the Pieve Santa Restituta winery in Tavernelle and, according to Angelo Gaja, is comparable to Barbaresco. The 2019 vintage was harvested between 12 September and 1 October and brings out the elegant side of Sangiovese. The sweet Mediterranean herbal nuances of tarragon, mint and sage are joined by cedar-like oak tones. Shiny, polished and balanced, but with an underlying tension, it shows red berries with a hint of bitter orange peel and tobacco on the palate. Finely powdered, loamy tannins cling confidently to the edges, while an appetising acidity permeates the core. Full-bodied but not heavy and with a satisfying crunch, this wine will be approachable before the sugarilla, but should last at least as long." Decanter

"The Brunello di Montalcino Rennina from Pieve Santa Restituta is characterised by its balance and the proverbial Gaja Madias touch, which always brings with it a particular creaminess or fruit concentration that harmonises perfectly with the wine's acidity and velvety tannin structure. The Pieve Santa Restituta 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Rennina is a blend of fruit from vineyards with different soil conditions and exposures. In this classic vintage, you can expect a wine that is firmly structured and important in mouthfeel, but also has delicate and soft nuances of wild rose, roasted cumin, campfire ash and grilled rosemary. The wine lingers on the palate and offers long-lasting flavours of black fruits." Wine Advocate

Madonna del Piano is the top vineyard in Valdicava, named after the small church located there. A great Riserva with lovely tobacco notes and hints of sour cherries, the flavour reveals a wonderful consistency and wonderfully dissolved tannins. SUPERIORE.DE

"This is a dark and well concentrated Brunello Riserva with meaty notes of smoked ham or bresaola, underpinned with black cherry and plum. You'll notice lots of leather and tobacco and the wine is bright and tart on the finish with a fresh fruit final. Excellent." Wine Enthusiast

"With a ripe bouquet of cherries and raspberries, this is the fruitiest wine of the decade. The primary fruit flavours are combined with a velvety texture supported by a solid layer of tannins. Despite the feeling of surmaturity, the finish is fresh and very long." Wine Spectator

"Complex, brooding and powerful, the 2004 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Madonna del Piano is a force to be reckoned with. It mixes plums and dried wild berries with tobacco and exotic spices. Velvety and enveloping, it reveals depths of tart red and black fruits neatly lifted by tantalizing acidity, while a twang of bitter dark chocolate defines the close. A hint of sous bois reveals its twenty years of maturity, yet the experience remains fresh and vividly pure, finishing with amazing length and potency. Beautifully executed." Vinous

"The Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Madonna del Piano 2004 continues to develop very positively. This large, concentrated Madonna del Piano impresses with the richness of its fruit and the finesse of its flavours. The clean, lively finish suggests a long ageing potential. Brunellos from Valdicava are often misunderstood when they are young because they are so rich, but with time in the bottle the wines become more delicate and complete." Wine Advocate

"A full-bodied, firm and pithy wine with very polished and flattering, juicy tannins. Shows youth and power in its structure. Spicy and persistent." James Suckling

Madonna del Piano - the top vineyard of Valdicava, which takes its name from the small church there. A great Riserva with lovely tobacco notes and hints of sour cherries, the taste reveals a lovely texture and wonderfully resolved tannins. SUPERIORE.DE

"Here is a big wine with lofty ambitions and an impactful presentation. The Valdicava 2010 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Madonna del Piano hits all the right buttons. The wine shows a profound sense of elegance and poise with subtle berry notes that blend into spice, licorice and tar. Those bright and lively aromatic components fold gracefully within the wine's tight texture, its sheer power and the silky nature of the tannins. This wine promises a long and steady aging future ahead." Wine Advocate

"Sumptuous, offering ripe aromas of plum, cherry, spice, earth, iron and tobacco. Velvety in texture and elegant, this nonetheless has an ironclad structure underneath. Firm and long, fresh, echoing tobacco and mineral. Seductive, yet reserved too." Wine Spectator

"A wine with superb finesse and depth. So subtle and understated yet powerful and long. The tannin intensity is amazing. It just builds like a massive wave. Superb. Give this time in the bottle. The length is endless." James Suckling

"The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Madonna del Piano is shaping up to be a real beauty. Powerful and dramatic, but also remarkably polished for such a big wine, the 2010 has a lot going on. Raspberry jam, wild flowers, spices, new leather, smoke and tobacco are laced into the powerful intense finish. The 2010 is an especially finessed Madonna del Piano with a bright future." Vinous

Sparkling, deep ruby red. In the bouquet a cornucopia of small red berries and red fruits. Complex and intense on the palate, with a refinement unparalleled in the 2012 vintage. We discover dark cherries, plums, camphor and a complexity that reveals more and more structure and personality with increasing air supply. In the finale, finely underlaid wood seasoning and a surprising freshness, which already today hints at a wonderful ripening cycle. Big and monumental! SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2012 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Madonna del Piano is a dark and thickly extracted expression. It is one of the blackest Brunellos you will find in this report. This rich red wine takes a little longer to open because those primary aromas are buried deep under all that bulk and power. Indeed, this wine is almost too much of a good thing. It moves with slow-motion laziness, and the bouquet is in absolutely no rush to show what it has in store. At its leisure, it will deliver dried blackberry, cassis, bitter chocolate, spice, campfire ash and sticky tar. There is some tannic astringency that will (hopefully) integrate with time. This is a hearty and satisfying wine to drink in the heart of winter with gentle snowflakes fluttering outside your window. It is a romantic wine in heart and soul." Wine Advocate

"Deep ruby-red. Toasty oak and vanilla complicate red cherry and underbrush aromas and flavors. Then rich, dense and concentrated, but lovely violet lift provides clarity and cut to the suave flavors of red cherry, red currant, flint and vanilla. Much deeper and richer than the 2013 Brunello from Valdicava, this beautiful wine finishes very long and ultra-smooth. It is the best wine I have ever had from this estate." Ian d’Agata (vinous.com)

"A complex red with rose petals, violets, crushed stones and cherries follows through to a full body and chewy tannins that are poised and polished. Extremely long and intense. A top wine for the vintage. This needs three or four years, maybe more, to come together." James Suckling

Occhio di Pernice means eye of the partridge and refers to the salmon red colour of this lightly vinified Vin Santo from the red grape variety Prugnolo Gentile. Dense and dark after 10 years of barrel ageing, rich in aromas of dates, dried plums and fruitcake. Sweet aroma with sensual flavours of lemon, salted caramel with warm French pastry. This wine lingers in the memory long after the last sip. SUPERIORE.DE

Andrea Franchetti began in the 1990s to position Palazzi as an equal red alongside his flagship Tenuta di Trinoro, with the aim of producing two exceptional wines reminiscent of the left and right banks of Bordeaux.

Just three words: power, intensity and concentration. With a very manageable production of 1,660 bottles, here is a full-throttle Tuscan wine that constantly exudes generous black fruits, spices and sweet tobacco. There is also black cherry and plum, which lend the wine soft contours and sweetness. On the palate, it is firm, well-structured and delights with a mouthfulness that is unrivalled. Take a good piece of red meat, marinate it in rosemary and olive oil before putting it on the charcoal grill and then embark on this monumental adventure. SUPERIORE.DE

"Splendid Merlot from loamy soils, tinged with blackberries and cassis, flanked by fine spice, tobacco and dark chocolate flavours; slightly less dense than last year, but still with a lot of finesse and a perfectly balanced tannin-acid structure, subtle minerality and complexity in the lingering final. Very successful!" Vinum

"The Palazzi 2020 is packed with dark fruits, cloves, leather and dark chocolate. Rich, deep and quite potent, the 2020 is another extroverted wine in this range. The tannins are a little curmudgeonly, but otherwise the 2020 is beautifully made and shows promise, especially as the tannins soften." Vinous

"The aromas of raspberries, plums and violets are very enticing. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a creamy and refined texture that is long and beautiful. A blend of Merlot parcels. Juicy and delicious." James Suckling

"Shows pure black cherry and blackberry fruit, along with olives, wild herbs and mineral accents. It offers a rich structure, but the overall impression is one of velvety texture and great harmony. Lively finish that leaves a salty impression. It is already accessible now, but will improve with time." Wine Spectator

"A primarily sanguine and umami nose draws balance from sweet, slightly astringent notes of plum, blueberry and boysenberry. The berries flourish on the palate, but acid brings out a latent mix of pepper and spices to preserve balance, while silky, opaque tannins provide framing." Wine Enthusiast

"The Palazzi 2020 is a 100% Merlot made to the highest standards by a winemaker, the late Andrea Franchetti, who strived for perfection. From his beloved Tenuta di Trinoro in Sarteano, with its endless skies and rolling landscapes, this wine shows plump fruit, blackberries, plums, spice and campfire ash. Coming from a hot vintage, the fruit is beautifully ripe, but by no means exaggerated. The wine shows softness, tension and a supple texture. This bottle gives a lot of intensity and charm." Wine Advocate

"Rich, bright ruby colour with a fine violet sheen. Compact and very present nose, smells of ripe blackberries, blueberries, some truffle and graphite in the background, beautiful play. Fills out the palate without becoming overpowering, ripe blueberry and blackberry fruit, polished, fine-meshed tannins in many layers, coated with fine enamel, simply fun! " Falstaff