Wines from Tuscany

With so many fantastic wines produced in the exceptional year 2016, it is hard for us to make a best list. But the Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Vigna di Pianrosso Santa Caterina d'Oro 2016 is definitely one of them. Only bottled in exceptional years, the single-vineyard Riserva Vigna di Pianrosso Santa Caterina d'Oro is a fine and delicate wine with great depth, perfectly balanced power and plenty of drive. It is thoroughly graceful and very elegant, with powerful aromatic intensity followed by firm tannins and a polished, soft texture. This Riserva offers power in the proverbial silken glove. But the wine is by no means simplistic about it. The longer it warms in the glass, the more it delights and surprises us. Delicate tones of wild berries, cassis, blanched almonds and dried ginger work together harmoniously, the final is endless and the lasting impression unforgettable. SUPERIORE.DE

"Seductive raspberry nose, coquettishly underpinned by notes of flowers and herbs; multi-faceted texture, the acidity invigorating, the tannins tight and beautiful, the final full of polish and elegance, the fruit notes beguiling. Great wine that can age." Vinum

"Bright, rich garnet red. Very clear and intense nose, full of ripe raspberries, pickled cherries and some liquorice in the background. Lots of ripe fruit on the palate, shows grippy tannin, firm pressure on the final, long finish of plums." Falstaff

"From the estate’s Pianrosso vineyard in the Castelnuovo dell’Abate area, Santa Caterina d’Oro bears the imprint of Montalcino’s south. The spiced, floral potpourri is tangled with sunbaked terracotta scents. This is a substantial, hefty wine with lots of extract and a profusion of fleshy red plum and prune. The tannins are very suave, while sandy earthiness lurks in the background and a salty tang comes through on the finish." Decanter

"Dark yet wonderfully perfumed, the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Vigna di Pianrosso Santa Caterina d'Oro blossoms in the glass to present a bouquet of dried strawberries and roses complemented by hints of blood orange and clove. It shows the power and grace of a well-muscled dancer as a dense wave of ripe red and black fruits rushes across the palate, lifted by bright acidity, while leaving a mix of saline-minerals and grippy tannins toward the close. Though structured for the long haul, the 2016 maintains unexpected vibrancy, finishing with hints of plum and almond. This is simply stunning." Vinous

"The Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Vigna di Pianrosso Santa Caterina d'Oro is gorgeous, full stop. It shows an incredible level of Sangiovese purity and sharpness, and you taste the grape as if you were eating berries straight out of the vineyard. On top of that healthy and bright primary material, the wine layers on elegant aromas of spice, ferrous earth, balsam herb and red rose potpourri. The aromas meet with seamless integration and segue to ongoing depth and complexity offered to the palate. This Riserva is rather delicate in terms of mouthfeel; however, it is powerful and long, with high alcohol, polished tannins and a silky texture. A hint of sweet cherry mixed with menthol freshness pulls it together at the end." Wine Advocate

"Glorious aromas of flowers, nutmeg, dark berries, earth and black cherries follow through to a full body with ultra-fine tannins that are long and extremely polished. They go on for minutes. Reserved and shy still, due to its excellence. Give this four or five years to come around. Try after 2024." James Suckling

"Both fluid and concentrated at once, this exudes cherry, black currant, violet and mineral aromas and flavors. Saturated with ripe fruit, this has beautifully integrated acidity and tannins, with a racy profile that drives the superlong finish. The tannins flex their muscles at the end yet remain refined." Wine Spectator

"A wine from cru of about 12 hectares born to be great. 36 months in Slavonian oak from 20-62 hl, at least 8 in bottle. Sour cherry, balsamic touch of Valdostan mint, black pepper leaf, undergrowth at the nose, juicy, dense mouth, with iodized and refined tannins, persistence and precision. Breathtaking finish." Luca Gardini

Just 72 bottles of this extraordinary creature were released for the German market. At the same time, San Polo's latest growth comes from the oldest vines of the wine estate, the Vignavecchia single vineyard with a size of 2 hectares. The year 2015 brought not only very healthy berries but also ideal acidity and sugar levels. So, it is not surprising that Vignavecchia made it to the podium right away and that this Brunello is one of the highest-rated wines of the dream vintage.

Intense ruby red. The nose is flooded with ripe red berry fruits, violets, some forest floor and a subtle wood spice. On the palate then breathtakingly deep, complex and with terrific texture. The warm tannins and well-dosed acidity make each sip memorable, and the endlessly long final reverberates long after the bottle is already empty ... This wine fills Brunello lovers with great joy and only the most controlled among them will ever experience the terrific maturation potential of the Vignavecchia 2015. SUPERIORE.DE

"Aromas of underbrush, camphor and tobacco form the nose along with a whiff of prune. Tightly knit and full-bodied, the palate features black-cherry jam, licorice, roasted coffee-bean and toasted notes alongside close-grained, velvety tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"Released in numbered bottles, the Poggio San Polo 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Vignavecchia is a true beauty with the elegance, distinctive intensity and savory sophisticated flavors that you only get in this storied appellation in the southern half of Tuscany. With fruit from old vines, the wine is naturally denser and richer. This expression also shows more oak shadings, with pretty spice and smoke that frame the dark fruit. These various elements come together with impeccable precision and focus. I suggest giving this wine a few more years of cellar rest." Wine Advocate

"This is a phenomenal new red from San Polo with superb depth and intensity with plum, wet earth and black truffle. Full body. Chewy and ripe tannins and a long and flavorful finish. The depth and beautiful is gorgeous. Needs three or four years to come together." James Suckling

Here comes the debut vintage of a great white wine from a classic red wine region. In a small edition of less than 6,000 bottles, an elegant and at the same time very independent Trebbiano was created, which rightly bears the label based on the famous "Castello di Brolio" Chianti Classico Gran Selezione. The white Trebbiano grape variety has a tradition of over a hundred years at Brolio, and the grapes for this white cru come from a small 1.18-hectare plot in the company's own Tarci vineyard. According to tradition, a monument was erected here to San Barnaba, the protector of the vineyards from hail.

Its production is as special as the wine itself: it was matured in Tuscan cocciopesto amphorae, with the skins macerating for around three months. The wine was then aged for a year, 40% in amphorae, 30% in stainless steel tanks and 30% in second and third passage tonneaux.

Sanbarnaba surprises with its elegance and intensity. It has a golden yellow colour with amber reflections. On the nose, it opens with floral and fruity notes, followed by honey flavours, spice and herbs. It is soft and very harmonious on the palate. Its acidity and freshness with a fine mineral note accompany the extremely flavoursome experience right through to the long finish. Very exceptional! SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, light golden yellow colour. Notes of jasmine blossom, pear and some baked apple on the nose. Lots of taut acidity on the palate, gives tension and juiciness, salty, slightly phenolic notes on the final." Falstaff

"An attractive wine with notes of bruised apples, pear skin, savoury herbs, young walnuts and ripe cheese. Full and waxy, structured and rather fluid, but also interesting. Spicy and savoury with a delicate phenolic impression on the finish. 100% Trebbiano from 1.18 hectares of vineyard." James Suckling

"A slightly honeyed, appley aroma with floral lift leads to a textured lanolin palate. It has good underlying acidity along with a lovely line of salinity which balances its waxy weight, finishing with a refreshing twist of lime. 2020 is the first vintage of Sanbarnaba." Decanter

"This is a wine that promises modest potential for cellaring, and thanks to its natural structure it could be paired with mature cheeses or even a plate of cacio e pep. The Barone Ricasoli 2020 Castello di Brolio Sanbarnaba is aged in a combination of amphorae, stainless steel and neutral oak. Only 5,600 bottles were produced. It opens with a medium golden colour and offers nutty aromas with mango, apricot and candied orange. It finishes on a glycerine-rich note. It should be interesting to taste this bottle again in five years' time." Wine Advocate

Just like its equally famous neighbour Fattoria Petrolo (with its Boggina A), Il Borro can also convince us with a red wine aged in amphorae. Petruna is a single-varietal Sangiovese that is fermented with 12 months of skin contact in hermetically sealed amphorae. The result is surprising, not in the sense of an "interesting" experimental wine, but because the typical character of Sangiovese is fully expressed in freshness, fruit and energy. The bouquet is dominated by cherry and small red berries, with a hint of orange zest. Its body is of medium weight, which makes it an excellent accompaniment to food. Its fresh acidity and a network of fine tannins increase the drinking pleasure enormously. An elegantly successful experiment, we can say. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, light carmine red colour. Intense nose of pomegranate, oranges and fresh cherries, slightly spicy on the finish. Very fresh and juicy on the palate, with well-integrated tannins, mouth-filling and soft, has drinking flow, pleasant finish." Falstaff

"The 2019 Sangiovese Petruna in Anfora is savoury rather than sweet, with a lovely bouquet of fresh roses, wild strawberries and wet stone. The wine is pure and fine, with a light minerality that emphasises the tart fruits of the wild berries. The savoury acids provide an energetic feel. The 2019 is both bold and fresh, enveloping the palate with subtle, grippy tannins and a hint of liquorice. The Petruna in Anfora is so remarkably pretty and, despite its structure, already pleases with its undeniable feminine beauty." Vinous

"The Il Borro 2019 Valdarno di Sopra Sangiovese in Anfora Petruna comes from a vintage that naturally offers more concentrated fruit and a richer drinking style. These results are fleshed out and elegant with lots of dusty mineral shadings from aging in clay vessels. You also get notes of blue flower, cherry and dried mint leaf." Wine Advocate

"Fruity and juicy with cherries and berries, along with some orange zest and citrus. Also spices. Full-bodied, but lively and beautiful. Crisp. Structured." James Suckling

Giacomo Neri's rather new top Brunello was born with the purchase of a very special vineyard. True to the winery's philosophy of producing wines only from the best terroirs around Montalcino, a small 7-hectare parcel with over 45-year-old vines was acquired a few years ago. This was preceded by over 40 years of friendship with the previous owners, with whom Giacomo's father Giovanni Neri planted the vines and nurtured them over the past decades.

Brunello Giovanni Neri exudes all the outstanding qualities of the raw material and the winemaker's craft. Man and nature unite here in perfect precision and harmony. Its balance is exquisite. Strong cherry and blackberry notes are followed by crushed minerals, liquorice, smoke and slightly fragrant cedar wood notes. The wine spreads evenly and powerfully on the palate, and its flavour intensity can be counted on for many minutes. Giovanni Neri Brunello is wonderfully concentrated and rich, but never too heavy or even too dense. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense, bright ruby colour with a fine garnet sheen. Presents itself with a memorable nose, lots of crisp fruit, blood orange and cherry, some lemon balm. On the palate, fine-meshed tannins that spread out in many layers, builds up over a long time, with very well-developed fruit and a very long finish with full-bodied pressure." Falstaff

"This ripe red wine is bursting with aromas and flavours of plums, cherries, rosehips and minerals, while a light tannin content and lively acidity provide lift. Balanced, pure and long, with a ray of cherry that lingers in the long aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"Wow, this wine steals the show. The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Giovanni Neri is a new addition to the Casanova di Neri portfolio in its second year of existence. It is a tribute to Giacomo Neri's father and represents a stylistic shift to the elegant side of Montalcino. The wine shows a very nuanced bouquet with roasted cherry stones, Luxardo syrup and balsamic herbs. Dark slate and stony minerals merge into a very clean and beautiful earthiness. The tannins are slightly sweeter compared to other wines of this vintage, and there are fragrant tones of old rose and lilac. The balance between tannin and fruit is excellent and I can imagine that this wine will age for a long time." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of cherries, flowers and cedar are followed by a full body with plenty of pure and juicy fruit character. Creamy and savoury with an aftertaste of crushed beans and cherries. The Brunello of today is characterised by purity and perfection of the fruit. The best of an outstanding vintage." James Suckling

"A Brunello of tension and balance, a stylistic masterpiece. The nose is multi-faceted, with hints of blackberry, then blood orange and mint. A balsamic, full, dense and compact bouquet with hints of geranium and clementine peel. The flavour combines elegance and texture, with a return of laurel and a strong salty note on the finish." Luca Gardini

If there is one thing that Giacomo Neri has mastered 100%, it is harvesting at the optimal time of ripeness. He knows his property and his vines better than most and it shows.

The fruit of the 2018 vintage is deep and dark, with high levels of extract, intensity and flavour. It goes far beyond the standard cherry and blackberry to include plum cake, spice bread and bacon-wrapped plum. Nothing about this wine is obvious or monochromatic, everything is nuanced and ethereal. Tenuta Nuova also regularly features the mineral-salty notes that are characteristic of this single vineyard. Very supple tannins. SUPERIORE.DE

"From the Cetine vineyard, located southeast of Sant'Angelo in Colle, comes this bottling of Tenuta Nuova with Mediterranean flair and sensual appeal. The relatively early harvest16 September has preserved the freshness of the grapes. Under a woody top note, lavender and balsamic herbs emerge. The ripe red cherries, infused with cinnamon and wrapped in supple tannins, show a high concentration. A juicy, tangy acidity supports the whole. The supple and refined wood should digest with another year in bottle." Decanter

"Bright and concentrated, with aromas and flavours of cherries, raspberries, rose hips, mushrooms, iron and tobacco. Pure and expressive, with fine harmony, an elegant frame and a long-lasting aftertaste. Supported by a firm structure." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova is spicy and intense, exuding a wild blend of sweet herbs, cloves, dried citrus peel and crushed red plums. It is dark, elegant and refined, with polished red and black fruits highlighted by hints of lavender and mint; yet underneath, a web of fine tannins slowly saturates the palate. Hints of cranberry and tangerine mingle with lavender on the long and textured final, and the 2018 ends wonderfully balanced and classic. With more maturity, it could earn an even higher score." Vinous

"Powerful, sparkling ruby with a fine garnet shimmer. Opens on the nose with notes of wild raspberry and black cherry, along with fine spicy components, violets in the background. Substantial and dense in attack and course, shows very great, compact tannin in many layers, full bite in the final, ends on notes of cloves." Falstaff

"Here is a treat from Casanova di Neri. The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova is full-bodied and rich with beautiful layers of dark fruits, dried blackberries, spices and smoked tobacco. The sour cherry of this vintage transitions into crushed flowers, balsamic herbs, liquorice and crushed stone. The bouquet is classic, but the magic of Casanova di Neri emerges thanks to the wine's balance and beautiful intensity." Wine Advocate

"Elegant and perfumed nose of dried roses, violets, lemon peel, slate, cherries, anise and truffle. Very fine, tight and precise tannins. Medium to full body. I like the floral and saline undertones. So precise and fresh with a dense finish. Crushed stones on the finish. Try it in 2025, but it is already attractive to taste and drink." James Suckling

"Southeastern area of Montalcino. From an innovative wine project, a refined and taut Brunello, one of the symbols of this typology now. Vertical on the nose, with notes of redcurrant, wild mint and chinotto, with hints of peony and blood orange. Crisp-tight drinkability, with saline tannins. Finishes fruity and citrusy again." Luca Gardini

Every year, the release of the strictly limited artist's edition of Tenuta dell'Ornellaia is a special treat. Today, too, we are pleased to be able to offer you some copies of the latest and 15th edition "La Proporzione" exclusively as a 0.75l single bottle. The original wooden box with 6 bottles contains only one bottle of this sought-after collector's item.

The artist's edition "Vendemmia d'Artista" has been around since 2006. Since then, renowned artists have been invited every year to decorate a small edition of single and large bottles of the world-famous Bolgheri Superiore. The 15th edition of the Ornellaia Vendemmia d'Arstista is called "La Proporzione" and for estate director Axel Heinz, this title sums up the essence of the vintage, which is characterised by cold and rain as well as long periods of heat:

"The dynamic vintage produced rich and structured wines, with each of the grape varieties expressing their particular qualities. We got a classic Ornellaia, combining sunny ripeness with elegance in a wine defined by harmony and proportion."Axel Heinz, Gutsdirektor

For this edition of Vendemmia d'Artista, American artist Joseph Kosuth has interpreted the character of Ornellaia 2020 "La Proporzione" and created a series of conceptual artworks. Kosuth's interpretation is expressed in a project that evolves from the labels of the 750 ml bottles as well as double magnum and imperial bottles to the site-specific artworks in the winery itself. On the Vendemmia d'Artista label of a 750-ml bottle, each found on a bottle in a case of 6, a quotation from Vitruvius (De architectura 3.1.3) is engraved in English on paper. On the other hand, the etymological family tree of the word "vino" is placed in relief on the bottle of the 100 double magnums.

As every year, the majority of the noble special editions will be auctioned at Sotheby's in autumn to get into the hands of lucky collectors. The proceeds are donated to the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation to support the innovative "Mind's Eye" programme. In the meantime, more than two million dollars have been donated to charitable causes since the launch of the Vendemmia d'Artista. An impressive success that gives blind or visually impaired people the opportunity to discover and experience contemporary art.

"As usual, the intense ruby red Ornellaia 2020 reveals notes of ripe berry fruits and light hints of vanilla and sweet tobacco on the nose. The wine has a velvety soft texture and a pleasant, enveloping mouthfeel that invites a second sip. Its dense yet elegant tannin structure carries the tasty, beautifully persistent final." Olga Fusari, Oenologist

Pure bouquet of red fruits, mocha, spices, cassis, blood orange and tobacco, very finesse for its youth. In the background, very restrained maquis, white smoke and traces of liquorice. Clear and firm on the palate, only gradually revealing a terrific structure and its perfect proportions, fanning out fruit, tannins and a harmonious acidity. One should not make the mistake of opening it too early, it will gain in elegance and depth with the years. SUPERIORE.DE

"This Ornellaia impresses already in the fragrance with a rather puristic, "luscious" bouquet - again more in the elegant Bordeaux style instead of with "Californian" airs and graces as in the past. At the same time, it remains true to its extremely spicy, ethereal, thoroughly Mediterranean vein, i.e. a typical Ornellaia of the more modern years. The clear fruit varies from red to blueberry, underpinned by a wonderful smoky-tobacco graphite note, with hints of cinnamon and sandalwood behind it. Elegant palate with linear orientation, good depth, rather elegant than concentrated, lots of tobacco spice, still very delicate BSA notes, calm and precise, tightly woven, extremely finely contoured final with firm tannic grip. Impressive finish, totally going for elegance. Bravo!" Weinwisser

"Deep, brilliant crimson. Very lush nose followed by a hedonistic palate that finishes particularly fresh. Ripe but not too ripe fruit - a drier (much less sweet) vintage than usual that should age well. Unusually, there is a residual tannin on the finish. It is certainly possible to drink it now if aerated before serving, but ideally I would keep it for a while. Spicy persistence." Jancis Robinson

"The winery's director, Axel Heinz, described the 2020 as "a classic Ornellaia" and chose the theme "La Proporzione" (proportion) to describe its character. Indeed, the blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot marks a return to a more typical blend after the pendulum swung to 62% Cabernet Sauvignon in 2019 and 51% Merlot in 2018. Fine-grained and beautifully structured, its finely integrated tannins support a concentration of black fruits brightened by red berries. Aromas of black cherry, liquorice, dark chocolate, cedar and damp earth make for a fragrant wine, accompanied by menthol and balsamic notes that permeate the wine and give it plenty of freshness. The finish reveals a stony and salty element, along with chocolaty and woody hints. It is dense and tasty, its ripe fruit combined with freshness and structure cleverly telling the story of this vintage, which ripens earlier. In the mouth it lacks complexity - time will tell - but the variety of flavours gives a hint of what is to come." Decanter

"Inviting aromas of blackberries, blackcurrants, anise, cedar, vanilla and tobacco draw you into this red wine that is smooth and open on the palate. This wine is so well balanced that it is immediately accessible, but also has a little reserve. On the finish, the fruit flavours come to the fore, along with mineral and spicy notes, while the lasting impression is a salty, fiery element." Wine Spectator

"The Ornellaia 2020 is a beautiful, elegant wine. Seamless and wonderfully deep on the palate, the 2020 is super refined from the start. For all its depth, the 2020 retains a great freshness and cut to play off its soft, juicy fruit. Overall, the 2020 seems to be a relatively accessible Ornellaia that drinks well with minimal cellaring. I particularly admire the precision and understated finesse of this wine." Vinous

"An all-encompassing wine that evolves over time, always surprising. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot in a (masterful) blend, blackcurrant jam, eucalyptus, juniper, spicy mouthfeel, mentholated finish, very long." Luca Gardini

"La Proporzione - the proportion - is the honorary title Ornellaia gives to this vintage and perfectly proportioned is also this blend of Merlot with Cabernet (Sauvignon and Franc) and Petit Verdot: Intriguing aromas of stone fruit, spiced up with a delicate odeur of fresh flowers and macchia, also discreet wood; superb construction with a lot of pressure and fullness, the tannin thereby precise and still very young, ends long." Vinum

"This is a beauty, so generous and opulent with completely seamless transitions. The wine's traditional blend is mainly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with tiny amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, although this warm vintage comes with a pinch less Cabernet Sauvignon. Fruit is selected from 107 hectares of Ornellaia vines, with the winery recently acquiring a further eight hectares next to Guado al Tasso in Castagneto Carducci, with terraces and vines aged between 15 and 28 years. This broad and generous expression has a wonderful quality of fruit and oak that speaks to the best of Italian winemaking." Wine Advocate

"Seductive aromas of pencil and currants with gravel and iodine. Full bodied with bound tannins that are firm and concentrated. Very fresh and energetic with wonderful length and intensity for this vintage. Needs four or five years to develop. Better in 2028 and later." James Suckling

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

Cepparello is one of the great varietal Sangiovese classics from central Tuscany. Brilliant ruby red colour. Clean, flawless aroma of red fruits, enlivened by fine pepper accents and delicate mineral nuances. Elegance radiates from the relaxed, enveloping flavour, which provides a perfectly measured acidity framework to a well-integrated tannin to finish long and full of finesse. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, intense ruby colour with a slight violet hue. Opens with fine spicy notes, some cinnamon, then plums and chocolate. Lots of juicy fruit on the palate, crisp and fresh, fine tannins, very long-lasting, supple and juicy on the palate." Falstaff

"Attractive red and dark berries with dried flowers, nutmeg and cocoa powder. Also dried orange peel and damp earth. Medium to full-bodied, taut and consistent with fine-grained, slightly chalky tannins. Polished and even with a lingering finish. Try after 2026." James Suckling

"Expressive and lush from the start, this red wine displays aromas and flavours of cherries, strawberries, roses, orange peel, minerals and Tuscan herbs." Wine Spectator

"The Cepparello 2020 is soft and supple and elevates the Sangiovese in a way that only Paolo De Marchi can. This is his penultimate vintage before he retires and sells this historic winery. The wine opens with a medium to full concentration of dark plums and redcurrants. These segue into sweet spices, earth, crushed stone, rusty nails and candied orange peel. Give the wine more time to develop in the cellar. It has a strong alcohol content of 15%." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 Cepparello is a total stunner, just as it was last year. Deeply colored, layered and explosive in the glass, the 2020 possesses striking textural richness and overall intensity. Black cherry, graphite, plum, spice and lavender flesh out effortlessly. There's tremendous pedigree and sheer stature here. Cepparello is surely one of the wines of the year." Vinous

After many years of identifying the best Merlot, Cabernet and Petit Verdot parcels within the boundaries of their Bolgheri estate with the support of the famous OenologistMichel Rolland, the Antinori family discovered in the early 2000s that in the midst of this microclimate and terroir there was an even more special small vineyard whose results once again surpassed those of the larger area. It was immediately clear to all involved that this unique character had to be vinified and highlighted separately - this was the birth of today's cult wine Lodovico.

The 2008 vintage, for all its complexity, is a youthful and at the same time dense wine that only gradually opens up in the glass to reveal a multitude of layers. The rich bouquet has fruity, floral and spicy notes, as well as wild berries, blackcurrants and Mediterranean herbs. The palate is highly refined textured with fine tannins, sweet fruit and excellent length. Lodovico 2008 is a balanced wine of elegance and refinement, with depth, power and longevity, and it is the archetype of the level that the Tenuta di Biserno terroir can produce. SUPERIORE.DE

"A juicy, rich wine with currant, powdered chocolate and hints of vanilla. Full body with chewy tannins and a powerful, rich, chewy finish." James Suckling

"Though rich, this red is elegant and harmonious, featuring flavors of black currant, cherry, cedar, graphite and spice. A supple and polished wine, with a beam of fruit persisting through the finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2008 Lodovico has developed beautifully. Today, the 2008 is complex, beguiling and wonderfully expressive. The tannins remain formidable though, and will require additional time in bottle to soften. A blast of dark red/black fruit, smoke and incense hits the palate on the explosive finish. The 2008 is just beginning to enter its tertiary phase. Hints of smoke, tobacco, savory herbs and licorice inform the deeply expressive finish. What a gorgeous wine this is." Vinous

"Layers of espresso, mocha, blackberry jam and spices take shape in the glass. The 2008 shows remarkable depth and polish all the way through to the finish. The Lodovico is another big, persistent wine endowed with tons of Maremma warmth and personality. These vines are just 6-7 years old. The potential for the future seems very, very bright." Wine Advocate

"It's a dark ruby colour, with generous aromas of plums, sweet red and black fruit, coal, mineral and smoke. It has a voluptuous weight in the mouth, and a velvety texture offset by dark chocolate, smoke and a faded herb note. This is super-harmonious and long with very fine, compact tannins." Decanter

"From the coastal Tuscan estate of Lodovico Antinori (brother of Piero), here comes a gorgeous blend of Cabernets Sauvignon and Franc, Merlot and a small percentage of Petit Verdot. Soft chocolate and black cherry opens the nose and segues to enormous richness and length. The wine is excellent but the jury is out on whether it becomes one of the great cult classics of Italy." Wine Enthusiast

As always, the stunning Vigneti del Versante offers a spicy and seductive fruit of black cherries and plums, along with flowers, tobacco, minerals and undergrowth. The wine shows great fibre and density, with much of this power coming from the heavier soils of the selected vineyard sites. The overall impression is captivating with its intensity, yet luxurious and mysteriously dark. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is a fascinating interpretation of the Vigneti di Versante, taking the floral, exotic nature of the vintage and combining it with the finesse and sophistication of Pian dell'Orino. Mint leaves, crushed stones, hints of camphor and dried strawberries are complemented in the glass by hints of ground ginger. This wine is elegant and refined, silky to the core, with tantalising acidity and mineral tones enlivened by hints of orange, while red plums linger on the senses. The tannins are soft and dusty, with an admirable concentration rarely found in 2018, finishing fresh and lightly textured. It is simply delicious. There will be no Bassolino di Sopra in 2018. All the juice went to the Vigneti del Versante." Vinous

If there is one thing that Giacomo Neri has mastered 100%, it is harvesting at the optimum ripening time. He knows his estate and his vines better than most and it shows. The fruit for Tenuta Nuova is harvested from a south and south-east facing slope at 250 to 300 metres above sea level. The soils are loose and mixed with gravel, which allows access to air and moisture.

The flavours of Tenuta Nuova 2019 flow with seamless transitions, and this fluid and ever-changing nature of the bouquet helps to develop intensity and persistence. In the beautifully drawn bouquet, blackberry, plum and summer cherry merge into lingering flavours of spice, leather and herbs. These are always an unmistakable feature of this winery's Brunello and develop steadily with further aeration. The palate reveals a great structure with mineral accents, a fine orange peel flavour, present fruit and numerous spicy components. This wine is a bit like an iron fist in a velvet glove - but with much more velvet glove than iron fist. The finish is long and, as so often with Neri, invigoratingly salty with an undertone of oyster shells. Great potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"Dense, deeply layered bouquet, wide-ranging with dark red flavours, wow, it's captivating. The palate is also complex and multi-layered with earthy, truffled nuances, very territorial, firm structure, penetrating acidity, firm tannic grip, a wine for the ages. The single vineyard Tenuta Nuova is once again one of the best in the tasting. Bravo!" Weinwisser

"Dark ruby red with light violet reflections. Complex on the nose, iron, dark cherry fruit, rich plum, some lovage. On the palate with lots of salt and juice, complex, comes in many layers, with tightly woven tannins, powerful and with full splendour, keeps coming back, big." Falstaff

"Black cherries with violets and other flowers on the nose. Full-bodied with powerful tannins and a juicy finish. Needs time to mellow." James Suckling

"The fruit profile of this red wine is ripe, with flavours of boysenberries, cherries and raspberries, with nuances of earth, iron and tobacco. More linear than square, with a steely line of acidity and tannins in support. Although balanced, it is compact for the moment and has a nice length." Wine Spectator

"In my opinion, this is the wine that best represents the Casanova di Neri style. With 30 months of ageing, it shows enormous richness and texture, and the outstanding fruit quality appears with more primary elegance compared to the more expensive Cerretalto. This dynamic is particularly pronounced in the comparison between the 2019 and 2018 vintages. The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova has a dark vein of roasted spices, black fruits, ink, blackberry compote, liquorice and star anise. Dark as night, it is exceptionally well-crafted with a robust delivery of concentrated fruit and solid tannin structure. It has excellent cellaring potential." Wine Advocate

"Notes of cherries and pepper leaves, with a hint of iodine. Opens juicy and taut on the palate, then expands in breadth and depth. Salty, juicy tannins and an officinal trace mark the finish is deep, big drink and long persistence." Luca Gardini

"In making a great wine, the primary goal is to emphasise, perfect and seal in a bottle all the extraordinary characteristics of the territory: from the different soils to the microclimate, from the vibrant power of the Mediterranean maquis to the fresh sea breeze." Stanislaus Turnauer (winery owner)

Actually, the single vineyard of just 1 hectare is unique, as it only comprises a small hilltop in the shape of a fan (Italian: ventaglio). The grapes from here have always been at the top of the winery's production and so it was decided to vinify them separately from the 2015 vintage onwards - and the new top wine "Ventaglio" was born.

Due to the curious location and geographical orientation of the vineyard in all directions, there are morning grapes, midday grapes and evening grapes here and they represent the respective site-specific microclimate in an impressive way. Likewise, through the subsequent joint processing, they give their differences in aromatic development, maturity and freshness as a total work of art in this exceptional wine, in which every nuance of the terroir, no matter how small, is expressed correctly and in a balanced manner.

Complex and with a noble body, balanced by an undeniable elegance, Ventaglio appears as the overall expression of Cabernet Franc, which grows particularly well in the Bolgheri area. This first site wine of the Tenuta, symbol of decades of experience in single-varietal winemaking, is vinified only in special vintages in an extremely limited number of bottles. SUPERIORE.DE

"Compact, spicy nose with rich blackberry and dark currant notes, plus cedar and cigar box, finely woven. Gripping and powerful on the palate, opens with dense tannin in many layers, spicy notes, plus dark berry fruit and some liquorice." Falstaff

"This red has a lot going on, featuring intense, saturated flavors of black cherry, plum, fig, wild rosemary and iron, with a vibrant, dense structure. Balanced, with a long, resonant finish." Wine Spectator

"A beautiful, complex red with blackcurrants, sage, rosemary and sweet tobacco. Red tile, too. Full-bodied, very linear and fine-grained with great intensity and power. Such purity and length. This 100% cabernet franc is made from only one hectare, producing 3,000 bottles. Needs another three to four years to open and definitely one for the cellar." James Suckling

"This is a new wine from Tenuta Argentiera, an estate that is positioning itself well to become an icon on the Tuscan Coast. The 2016 Ventaglio is a headline expression of Cabernet Franc from a vineyard that I have been lucky enough to visit. It is lovely to see this spot with rows of vines that fan out (hence the name Ventaglio, or "fan" in Italian) from a sole oak tree that is perfectly framed between the cobalt Tyrrhenian Sea and the blue sky above. If there is a heaven where grapevines live, the Ventaglio vineyard may just be it. This vintage is super chiseled and sharp with generous and abundant black fruit that is tightly framed by spice, tobacco, dried herb and a touch of bitter chocolate and dusty mineral. There is some phenolic tartness that points to the wine's youth and bodes well for its future aging. The finish is layered, deep and rich." Wine Advocate

Fragrant and fresh on the nose with beautiful concentration and complexity. Summery aromas of stone fruit, ripe peach, jasmine and a hint of fragrant beeswax. The racy, slender mouthfeel has a certain density and reveals an elegant hint of gravel and chalk and flavours of white almonds on the finish. Everything is already in its place here, but it will gain in complexity with further bottle ageing. SUPERIORE.DE

"Straw yellow colour with golden reflections. On the nose, it exudes impressively complex aromas, including apricot and acacia blossom, accompanied by spicy notes and roasted hazelnuts. On the palate, the wine captivates with a true panorama of aromas and flavours, spicy but at the same time full-bodied, with a very long aromatic persistence in the final.
Olga Fusari, Oenologist (bis 2023)

"Bright straw yellow with green nuances. Aromas of apricot, grapefruit and redcurrant, with delicate saline notes. Juicy on the palate, shows presence with lots of crisp fruit, fresh, lemony notes, long-lasting and savoury." Falstaff

"Complex aromas of ripe stone fruit and acacia blossom, but also subtle mint and spice notes; extremely harmonious texture, very well supported by the acidity, lots of exotic fruit with exquisite bitter almond notes on the final." Vinum

"This silky white wine has an almost creamy texture and shows flavours of flowers, peach, sage and mint with a hint of grapefruit pulp. Complex, balanced and long, with a savoury component in the lingering aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"Ornellaia Bianco 2021 is now a pure Sauvignon Blanc. This wine plays its best cards in terms of texture. It has broad shoulders and enough texture to support the many creamy citrus and delicately tropical flavours. A hint of crushed stone adds elegance." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 Ornellaia Bianco is seductive. I sense a little more textural richness than in previous editions, which I see as a positive. White pear, jasmine, sage, mint, white pepper, peach and apricot fill out the layers. Light tropical accents appear with some aeration, adding a tropical flair that is very attractive. This is impeccably made." Vinous

"Perfumed, exotic, stony and honeyed, it is nonetheless a vertical and focused wine whose structure encompasses rich aromas and flavours of mango, peach, white flowers, orange peel, papaya and passion fruit." Decanter

"This is a dense and concentrated white wine, yet agile and easy to chew. Very beautiful flavours. Full-bodied, with a tension and frame that gives this wine real precision and intensity. Taut on the finish. Already beautiful now, but it will age beautifully. The best white wine ever from here?" James Suckling

Just 3,000 bottles of the exceptional 2016 vintage were released. The grapes for this exceptional Chianti Classico come from vines that grow in the south-west at an altitude of between 350 and 480 metres above sea level. The soil here is characterised by galestro and limestone. Rich, deep dark ruby colour with a velvety sheen. Multi-layered, concentrated aromas of plum, black cherry, spices and menthol. Complex on the palate with a multi-faceted flavour profile that only opens up gradually and only reveals its full spectrum to the patient. A paragon wine of great depth, class and irresistibility. SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep, impenetrable ruby red colour. Brooding, deep and concentrated with hints of oak and dark malt bread. Tightly knit, tangy red and dark fruits with fine, long and persistent tannins. Finely balanced. Transparent and elegant on the finish. Full-blooded." Jancis Robinson

"An intense, vibrant red, with traces of vanilla and toasted, resinous oak surrounding aromas and flavours of black cherries, blackberries, violets and minerals. Balanced, with a resonant finish. Still youthful, with refined, mouth-flattering tannins, this wine still has a long way to go." Wine Spectator

"Intriguing blueberry-chocolate nose, also nuances of black pepper; balanced on the palate with a beautiful polish, the acidity and the tightly woven tannins accurately integrated, combines finesse and great length. Great." Vinum

"Intense and multi-faceted aroma, red raspberry, nutmeg, a hint of wild rosemary and garrigue. The drinkability is juicy, with a return of blackberry and notes of Mediterranean vegetation." Luca Gardini

"This is a beautiful wine that is only produced in the best vintages. The Isole e Olena 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione is made from 90% Sangiovese, supplemented by tiny proportions of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Merlot. The wine is hugely bright and vibrant in this classic vintage with lingering fruit and cherry that remains intact and fresh even when tasted now, five years after harvest. Hints of leather, tar and potting soil gently fill out the back end. This wine promises long and healthy ageing in the future." Wine Advocate

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2016 is breathtaking. This is hardly a surprise, as Paolo De Marchi is known for making compelling Gran Seleziones in his own unique style. The 2016 is a brilliant, concentrated wine, bursting with energy from start to finish. It is the rare wine that develops superbly in the glass and opens up with time. The blend consists of 90% Sangiovese and a few drops of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Syrah." Vinous

Luce Brunello is dark and impenetrable, as always in its more international style. On the palate, it delivers ripe and round fruit flavours of blackberries and plums with plenty of opulence, power and breed. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich and full-bodied, this juicy red shows aromas of cherry, blackcurrant and Mediterranean scrub, with hints of graphite, underpinned by muscular tannins that come through on the finish. Very balanced overall." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is generous and open in personality. It shows sweet cherries, dried raspberries, spices and fragrant roses." Wine Advocate

"Sparkling, rich ruby with a fine garnet shimmer. Quite restrained on the nose, then opens up with notes of rose petals and tea, rich spicy components in the background. Firm and grippy on the palate, shows plenty of grippy tannin, substantial and structured, but still needs longer ageing." Falstaff

"A finely structured and concentrated Brunello with a complex palette of cherries, blackberries, dried roses, bark, liquorice and a hint of praline. Also iodine and oyster shells. Medium to full body with firm, very fine tannins. Nice texture and balance. Remains fresh and fine until the end. To be tasted from 2025." James Suckling

From the 2020 vintage, Ornellaia Bianco is a single-varietal Sauvignon Bianco from three selected, small vineyards at Tenuta dell'Ornellaia. It ferments on the lees for 10 months, which gives it freshness, precision and a fine citrus flavour. Delicate golden yellow colour. A cornucopia of light-coloured fruit on the nose, with wonderful mint and citrus notes. Complex, lush and multi-layered on the palate. One of Italy's great white wines, in the style of the house. SUPERIORE.DE

"The intense straw-yellow Ornellaia Bianco 2020 unfolds a bouquet of yellow-fleshed fruit, accompanied by aromas of white flowers and vanilla. A harmonious and complex nuance that delights with every sip. On the palate, the wine reveals a pronounced freshness, but at the same time an elegant creaminess that gives the wine an enveloping, pleasant and long-lasting mouthfeel." Olga Fusari, Oenologist

"A full-bodied white wine reminiscent of a Bordeaux Blanc, with flavours of melon, peach, lemongrass, flowers, spices and green tea. Rich but balanced by lively acidity, with a hint of grapefruit peel bitterness. Excellent balance and length, with subtle use of oak." Wine Spectator

"This wine, which used to contain Viognier, is now 100% Sauvignon Blanc. The 2020 Ornellaia Bianco is quite tropical and generous in personality with immediate flavours of papaya, Golden Delicious apple and crushed stone. The wine is beautifully structured and long-lasting." Wine Advocate

"The nose indulgently blends fruit and herbs, like pineapple sorbet drizzled with basil syrup, with umami undertones of Pecorino cheese and toasted almonds keeping things in elegant balance. On the rich palate, pineapple continues and is joined by lemon curd, but the saltiness of the cheese perseveres to cut through the luxuriousness." Wine Enthusiast

"The Ornellaia Bianco 2020 is a bright, fine, dry white wine. Lime, white flowers, mint and white pepper are all beautifully described in this crisp white. I would give it at least a year or two in the bottle, as the acids are quite aggressive today, or a few hours in a decanter, which will help soften the youthful edges." Vinous

"White flowers, jasmine, peach, apricot, clementine and citrus nuances with a minerality of wet stones. Exciting and ample at the same time, a well-controlled weight of almost oily peach and bitter nectarine fruit with a citrus pineapple and lemon kick and underlying notes of honeysuckle give the florality. Clean with balanced acidity that gives a smooth mouthfeel and adds to the complexity of the whole. Dynamic with a hint of sweetness and tension - lively and appealing." Decanter

As a result of extensive soil research, Francesco Ricasoli was able to identify three micro-vineyards, which will be vinified separately from the 2015 vintage onwards. The range of Chianti Classico Gran Selezione now includes, in addition to the famous Castello di Brolio, three cru sites (Colledilà, Roncicone and Ceniprimo), all of which are 100% planted with Sangiovese. They differ in structure and taste in close correspondence with their terroir and impressively demonstrate the complexity of the Chanti Classico region.

CeniPrimo is a single-varietal Sangiovese from soils shaped by a former river course. It is a 6.4 hectare site planted in 1998 with southwest exposure. This site is in a valley on the Arbia River, and the soils are very complex at this point with alluvium and clay that is low in organic matter and lower in limestone. From our tasting, it seems to be the most nuanced and diverse of the three single vineyard Gran Selezione.

Intense, fresh and bright bouquet of violets and wild spicy notes. In the drink, an elegant acidity and fine mineral slate traces. Cherry, blackberry, plum, white pepper and a little rosemary lead the perfectly structured drop into a never-ending and multi-layered finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"A complex, concentrated red wine with seductive aromas of cherries, blackcurrants, violets, minerals and spices. Dry and powerful, with a firm, mineral finish. It shows good balance and a long-lasting aftertaste, combining the fruity, mineral and spicy elements." Wine Spectator

"Straightforward fruit and floral aromas, then subtle spice too; the tannins powdery, well underpinned by the acidity, the finish on notes of sun-ripened berries. Pleases with its verve." Vinum

"The CeniPrimo, the lowest of Ricasoli's three crus, comes from a site 300 metres above sea level in the Arbia Valley on river soils. As a result, it is darker and earthier compared to the other two crus, grippier and also with an amazing acidity. There is a hint of creaminess in the background, with notes of earth, pepper and wood. It's very tasty and vertical, with balsamic freshness and beautiful purity, but definitely needs more time to show its best side." Decanter

"The Barone Ricasoli 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Brolio CeniPrimo opens with a medium-dark, saturated appearance and a slightly more concentrated feel, with aromas of cherry liqueur, blackberries, spices and sweet earth. Thanks to the lower-lying vineyards and silty riverbed soils, this wine is a little fruitier and richer in texture. However, this wine also offers a touch of lively freshness on the finish, and that makes a big difference in a warm vintage like this. It remains very balanced throughout." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of firm-to-the-bite cherries with citrus peel. Flowers, like red roses, also come through clearly. Medium to full body, with open-grained tannins that cling like cashmere. Powerful, fresh and lively. Give this wine three to five years to develop." James Suckling

The spectacular "Vendemmia d'Artista" artists' edition has been running since 2006. Every year, renowned artists are invited to design a small series of individual and large bottles of the world-famous Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore and create an artistic world around this fine wine. It is not a matter of course that we are once again able to offer you some examples of the rare 16th edition of the Ornellaia Vendemmia d'Artista 2021 in the 0.75-litre bottle this year. As usual, this special edition is rare and sought-after, as there is only one bottle of this limited collector's item in each 6-bottle wooden crate.

This year's edition bears the name "La Generosità - Generosity". This is the name Ornellaia has given to the 2021 vintage. The artist Marinella Senatore has imaginatively interpreted this character trait and transformed the pride and dedication of the people who vinify this top wine into impressive art. She says: "I have studied Ornellaia long and hard. Here, the elements of nature such as the sea, wind and stars combine with the energy of the people who work here, and completely new connections are created."

From these observations, she created unique collages that adorn 100 double magnum bottles, among other things. The artist interprets the theme of generosity in the form of artistic representations of the hands of those men and women who passionately pursue their vocation day after day. The symbolism of dance as a further element symbolises a lively community and the strong cohesion of the team.

Once again this year, a large part of the impressive special edition will be auctioned off at Sotheby's to find its way into the hands of lucky collectors. The proceeds will go to the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation to support the innovative "Mind's Eye" programme. And for a very good cause, as the programme offers people with visual impairments the opportunity to discover and experience contemporary art without barriers.

Lamberto Frescobaldi, co-owner of the Ornellaia winery, summarises the intention of the work as follows: "The character of 2021 reflects the generosity of the terroir. But the artist's interpretation reveals another level of meaning: the generosity of the terroir enables an ecosystem of which we are all a part."

Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore 2021 is a wine of extreme precision. It offers well-proportioned power and depth with profound layers of black fruit, coffee and liquorice. It captivates with its lustre and polished texture, which merges into great richness, concentration and structure. The finish is enveloping with sweet dark fruits and dark spices that linger for a long time. Ornellaia 2021 is a wonderful, if not perfect, example of the impressive potential of this great Tuscan vintage! SUPERIORE.DE

"The Ornellaia 2021 is the expression of a typical Bolgheri vintage, in which there was no lack of sunny periods without rainfall, resulting in rich and concentrated, but at the same time very expressive and multi-faceted wines. On the nose, typical scents of Mediterranean scrub, aromatic herbs, cypress berries and the classic flavours of blackcurrant and dark fruit, accompanied on the palate by a dense tannic texture that envelops it with precision and finesse. The final is persistent and vibrant, leaving a feeling of aromatic freshness and elegance." Olga Fusari, Oenologist (bis 2023)

"Almost black in the glass. The 2021 Ornellaia is one of the best I have tasted in recent years. The precisely contoured nose is very elegant with highly ripe, dark red cherry fruit, balsamic top notes, pencil lead and Mediterranean herbal spice. Full-bodied and full of finesse on the palate, the super fine sandy tannins lay wonderfully over the clear fruit, showing terrific balance and structure. Rarely experienced with such finesse." Weinwisser

"Enchanting aromas of blackberries, lilac, liquorice and mint, also subtle notes of blood orange; superb structure with lots of character, but also great light-footedness, the fine-grained tannin and acidity in harmony, long finish." Vinum

"Bright, rich ruby colour with a slight violet hue. Very impressive and accessible nose, showing notes of dark currants, dark cherries and fresh plums, as well as spicy macchia herbs. Lots of fine-meshed tannin on the palate, which gives the wine length and polish, dark berries and tobacco, lingers for a long time." Falstaff

"More intense, nuanced crimson than most others. Rich, hedonistic nose. Full and perfumed with many elements, including some mintiness, making up the whole. Strikingly long and rewarding. Good stuff. Already appealing and with an appetising finish." Jancis Robinson

"The Ornellaia 2021 Bolgheri Superiore Ornellaia offers an extra layer of richness, generosity and fullness that makes for a very open and voluptuous Tuscan red wine. You can feel the fruit and the weight of the oak, the extract and the alcohol content of 15 %. All these elements combine to great effect. Black cherries, dark fruits, sweet spices and barbecue smoke emerge from this power. The fruity tannins are young, and this edition of Ornellaia proves worthy of drinking in the medium or long term, especially as it mellows with bottle age." Wine Advocate

"Despite the warm growing season, Ornellaia 2021 feels less dense and muscular than previous vintages. It offers pretty floral and wild herb scents alongside ripe red and black fruit flavours. It's intense, fresh and vertical in character, with fine, ripe, round tannins that seem to be a hallmark of the vintage - it's a beautiful, airy iteration of the Bolgheri benchmark that's already drinking well." Decanter

"An intense red, characterised by lively acidity and framed by dense, ripe tannins that bring out its aromas and flavours of blackcurrants, blackberries, violets and toasted oak. Iron and wild herb accents emerge on the finish. Although expressive at this stage, this youthful version will benefit from time in the bottle." Wine Spectator

"Aromas of blackcurrants, iodine, gravel, hints of mint and sage. Blue fruits. Full-bodied with chewy tannins that open up with air. It is racy and very long. Very tannic and energetic with power and focus. Muscular and very taut. This is the best Ornellaia for the cellar in years." James Suckling

"The Ornellaia 2021 captures all the magic of this sensational vintage on the Tuscan coast. The 2021 is rich, lush and expansive, with tremendous polish, it is pure class. Dark fruits, mocha, espresso, liquorice, plum and dried herbs abound. The tannins are present but also beautifully integrated, as is the French oak. The blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc and 7% Petit Verdot is very well done." Vinous

Bright golden colour, explosive aromas of quince, honey, wax, granite, blood orange, vanilla, white chocolate and straw on the full bouquet. On the palate, initial notes of roasted cashew and almond, followed by fruits such as white peach, pear and citrus. Exciting and very multi-faceted. SUPERIORE.DE

"The organic Monteverro 2020 Chardonnay offers a soft and supple character with orchard fruit, quince, pear and mild spice. This wine has a Burgundian quality, especially in terms of mouthfeel and texture, but it reveals its Italian roots thanks to the electric and vibrant notes of citrus and Mediterranean herbs that also appear." Wine Advocate

"Nice, toasty spice with ripe white peaches and mangoes, as well as walnuts and dried summer herbs. Also some freshly baked bread crust. Full-bodied, creamy and mouth-filling. The clean acidity comes through well with its phenolic and mineral nature. I like the racy cut of the spicy herbs on the finish." James Suckling

"Multi-layered nose of peaches, pome fruit, pineapple, sweet spices; of engaging salty minerality on the palate, but also plenty of polish and spice, long as an ell with verve and yet also character. Great wine!" Vinum

As a result of extensive soil research, Francesco Ricasoli was able to identify three microlocations, which will be vinified separately from the 2015 vintage onwards. The range of Chianti Classico Gran Selezione now includes, in addition to the famous Castello di Brolio, three cru sites (Colledilà, Roncicone and Ceniprimo), all of which are 100% planted with Sangiovese. They differ in structure and taste in close correspondence with their terroir and impressively demonstrate the complexity of the Chanti Classico region.

Cru Roncicone comes from soils with maritime deposits. It is a 10.1 hectare plot planted between 1998 and 2000 at a density of 6,000 plants per hectare. The soils are rich in marine fossils with sand at the top and thicker clay under the topsoil. Our impression of this wine is that it is the most immediately and softly structured.

Deep dark, fruity-smoky bouquet. On the palate then dark, violet fruits, paired with notes of forest floor, tobacco and a nice spiciness. The volume is full and deep, the tannins very accessible even at a young age and the finish is flanked by a well-structured acidity framework, which will also ensure a very good ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Roncicone, first released in the 2015 vintage, comes from a vineyard with richer soils with marine sediments and large pebbles. It is the most floral and fragrant of Ricasoli's three crus, intense and fleshy, with good spice of black and red cherries, spices and balsamic, finishing with sweet, floral red fruits - a very nice style." Decanter

"The spicy nose is reminiscent of a soothing café, with notes of balsamic vinegar and herbs, and a gentle fruitiness that lingers over the smell of the beans. The velvety texture on the palate is balanced by a sharp acidity and a peppery kick on the finish." Wine Enthusiast

"Offers aromas and flavours of cherry, blackcurrant and plum, underlined by iron and mineral notes. Accents of tobacco and wild herbs emerge on the long, delicious finish. Excellent balance." Wine Spectator

"Ripe and rich Roncicone with plums, currants and jam accompanied by fresh flowers and walnut undertones. Full-bodied, a little chewy and structured, but crisp with fine tannins. Long lasting finish. Needs at least two or three years to develop." James Suckling

"Exquisite bouquet of stone fruit and sandalwood, spiced up by fine spice; harmonious tannin-acid framework, pressure on the finish and yet full of elegance." Vinum

"This is the wine that blew me away last year (when I tasted the excellent 2019 vintage) and convinced me of the innovative work Barone Ricasoli is currently doing. Today, tasting the 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Brolio Roncicone, I am reminded of the quality fruit that comes from this particular 10-acre site with marine fossils in the sandy topsoil. Carefully aged in oak, this Sangiovese shows brilliant clarity and focus, with aromas of roses, dried cherries, campfire ash and delicate mineral notes. This wine paints a beautiful portrait of this grape variety." Wine Advocate

With this single-vineyard Sangiovese, the Mazzei family pursues no less a goal than to make the best wine in the Chianti Classico appellation. Seven different Sangiovese clones, four of them from their own 50 years of research, form the basis for a Gran Selezione that is produced at an altitude of up to 350 m in the single vineyard Il Caggio not far from Castellina (and only in the best vintages).

Just 3,000 bottles point the way to the Sangiovese Olympus: Sparkling ruby red, opulent bouquet of cherry, dried fruit, herbs and violets. On the palate again small red berries, flanked by a present but very elegant tannin, precise and straightforward. The final is polished and very long, perfectly proportioned and harmonious. Leaves a beautiful and unique impression, it expands the standard of what one could expect from a Gran Selezione until today. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with delicately lightening rim. Fragrant nose of cedar wood, cherries, fine marzipan, a hint of dried rose petal. Opens polished and clear on the palate, in addition exciting, salty tones, compact acidity with delicately perceptible wood use decorate the bouquet, appears very energetic and radiant, will age well." Falstaff

"The Caggio 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Ipsus, out now, unfolds slowly in the glass to reveal dark fruits, cassis, spices, cured leather and pressed blue flowers. A hint of something exotic like bay leaf or a touch of roasted cumin. The finish is silky and very smooth, and this wine is longer in the mouth and more finely crafted compared to the 2016 vintage I tasted at the same time." Wine Advocate

"Very perfumed with roses and other flowers. Also Spanish cedar. Medium body with creamy and fine but round tannins that continue for minutes. Super fine texture. Juicy fruit. Juicy and so beautiful. Hard not to drink it now. In fact, do. But it will also age beautifully. Vineyards of 30 years or more." James Suckling

"This 2018 brilliantly combines the darker fruit of 2016 with the mega-freshness of 2015, finishing it off with super-fine tannins. Creamy, earthy and chocolatey notes are lifted by a balsamic waft, overlaid with ripe, sapid red and black cherries, a touch of black tea and a long, sweet, pure cherry and wild strawberry finish. Superb." Decanter

With this single-vineyard Sangiovese, the Mazzei family is pursuing no less a goal than making the best wine in the Chianti Classico appellation. Seven different Sangiovese clones, four of them from the family's own 50-year research, form the basis for a Gran Selezione, which is produced at an altitude of up to 350 metres in the single vineyard Il Caggio not far from Castellina (and only in the best vintages).

Just 3,000 bottles of the top Tuscan vintage 2016 point the way to the Sangiovese Olympus: sparkling ruby red, opulent bouquet of cherry, dried fruit, herbs and violets. Small red berries again on the palate, flanked by a present but very elegant tannin, precise and straightforward. The final is polished and very long, perfectly proportioned and harmonious. Leaves a wonderful and unique impression, it extends the benchmark for what one could expect from a Gran Selezione to date. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, sparkling ruby red colour. Expressive and inviting on the nose, fresh wild strawberries, blood oranges, with fine floral notes and a finish of ripe red peach, elegant, barely perceptible use of wood. Extremely polished and elegant on the palate, spans a wide, juicy arc, many layers, gentle, persistent pressure, fine saltiness on the finish with a long finish." Falstaff

"The Caggio 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Ipsus is a beautiful expression of Sangiovese. The wine captures the slightly wild and untamed side of the grape that is so compelling, but it also focuses on elegance and nuance. At first glance, the bouquet reveals an abundance of wild berries and wild cherries, but taste the glass a second and third time and you may pick up more decisive notes of crushed stone and granite. The wine is lean and streamlined, with pretty floral flourishes and a long, silky finish. More than anything, the Ipsus captures the purity and honesty of Sangiovese with a finely polished and lean mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Ipsus 2016 is the second vintage from the Caggio estate of the Mazzei family in Castellina. The soaring aromas immediately herald a Sangiovese of true distinction and class. There is something wild and seductive about Ipsus that is difficult to describe. It is at once incredibly polished and yet also very assertive. Crushed flowers, cherry, pomegranate, blood orange, star anise and cinnamon add layers of exoticism as the 2016 opens in the glass. The 2016 is deep, full of character and incredibly long-lasting. This ambitious new wine from Mazzei will certainly be fascinating to follow." Vinous

"The fruit element is pure and reminiscent of blackcurrants and black cherries, paired with a spicy side that features notes of wild rosemary, iron, tobacco and eucalyptus. All of this is held together by a lively acidity and refined tannins. A convincing combination of power and finesse." Wine Spectator

"Super perfumed, wonderful aromas of blackberries, mushrooms and bark with dried flowers and crushed stones. Also pine needles and flowers. Full-bodied and linear, very dense and long. Very polished and intense. Great length. Outstanding. From the heart of Castellina in Chianti. Try it after 2025, but it already shows incredible clarity and concentration." James Suckling

"Lots of red cherry is accompanied by a whiff of wood smoke and dried green tea, followed by similar flavours on the palate. The acidity is vibrant and crunchy, the fine-grained tannins still firm. A pure expression of Sangiovese; an elegant wine." Decanter

As a result of extensive soil research, Francesco Ricasoli was able to identify three microlocations, which will be vinified separately from the 2015 vintage onwards. The range of Chianti Classico Gran Selezione now includes, in addition to the famous Castello di Brolio, three cru sites (Colledilà, Roncicone and Ceniprimo), all of which are 100% planted with Sangiovese. They differ in structure and taste in close correspondence with their terroir and impressively demonstrate the complexity of the Chanti Classico region.

The grapes of Colledilà come from the soils of Monte Morello. The 7.6 hectare single-vineyard plot was planted in 2002 on very rocky soils rich in calcium, clay and organic matter. These characteristics give this wine its sharpness and concentration, promising long ageing in the cellar.

Ripe, dark cherry fruit and blackberry aromas, followed by tar, liquorice and potting soil. On the palate, a fine earthiness, cherry and plum, plus finely knit and slightly sweet tannins. The dense fruit and pleasant acid wire the Sangiovese provide the necessary freshness. Masterfully composed! SUPERIORE.DE

"Like a laser beam in profile, this red wine evokes aromas and flavours of cherries, currants, minerals, wild herbs and sweet spices. The lingering, incisive finish leaves a hint of fine tannins. Needs time." Wine Spectator

"Juicy, ripe and bright, it shows a delicious freshness of blackcurrant fruit with classic chalky verticality and length, but it needs more time to reveal all its complexity." Decanter

"Of these 2020 releases, I think the Barone Ricasoli 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colledilà is the most sensitive to the warm growing season. You sense more fruit ripeness in this wine with savoury spices, leather and roasted espresso beans. There is plenty of plum and purple fruit framed by gravel and campfire ash. Indeed, this 2020 expression offers a nice, balanced freshness in terms of mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

"Intense perfume of stone fruit, dark chocolate and tobacco; tightly woven, the tannins polished and in perfect unison with the well-integrated acidity, the finish on notes of black cherries, clear and spot-on. Also very successful in this vintage." Vinum

"Very perfumed with aromas of hibiscus flowers, citrus and fresh cherries leading to a medium body with layers of fruit and very fine tannins that go on and on. Fully integrated. A joy to taste and drink, but it will develop beautifully in bottle. Pure harmony." James Suckling

"Elegantly bright ruby red with a delicate garnet rim. Expressive nose, of rose hips, blood oranges, fresh cherries, very inviting and fragrant, red peach, with delicate floral components. Very juicy entry on the palate, polished and clear, with great brought out red fruit, plus bright spice, long and very elegant." Falstaff