Wines from Veneto

Cresasso - an exquisite, pure Corvina. Intense aromas of dark fruit, rose petals and spices. Rich, concentrated fruit on the palate, silky, with a remarkable inner sweetness. Distinctive and sensual. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dried cherry, dried blueberries and spices with a smoky and meaty character, powerful with an intense finish and very pure." Decanter

"This wine showcases why Corvina is at the heart of so many red wines from the Veneto. It's densely concentrated, with aromas of black cherry and baked plums covered in sweet baking spices from the oak the wine is aged in. The wine is polished and elegant on the palate, with tannins that are firm but will soften with some time. The primary fruit will give way to more savory notes that are only just peeking their heads out currently." Wine Enthusiast

"This wine is full of spicy red and black fruits, almost exotic, with notes of fresh dates, passion fruit, raspberries and a hint of chocolate. On the palate, it is full-bodied with an ever more vibrant fruit that clings to the very fine and slightly firm tannins, resulting in a flawless finish with plenty of flavour and good length." James Suckling

"The 2017 Corvina Cresasso is aromatically stunning, with a captivating blend of raspberry and cherry sauce accompanied by a pinch of sweet spice and cocoa. This model of elegance rolls on silky waves of texture over a core of vibrant acidity, while masses of mineral-tinged red and blue fruits saturate the senses. The 2017 finishes structured and grippy with a primary concentration that lingers as tart red plums and rosy flowers slowly fade away. This single-varietal Corvina is fantastic, but it will need cellaring to show its best side." Vinous

As every year, the secret star of the house is the Dominator in the Dal-Forno style. Dark and dense, it reveals an intense bouquet with jammy aromas of red and dark fruit, alongside spices and wood, tobacco and chocolate. At the same time, the youthful, stormy flavour is an overwhelming demonstration of power. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, dark ruby red colour. Expressive and fragrant nose of dried rose petal, raspberries, cooked oranges, blackberries, precious wood, dark chocolate, fine mint tones on the finish. On the palate with a polished entry, savoury, with great juiciness and clear fruit, coated with noble wood tannin, powerful, elegant, long." Falstaff

"The 2016 Valpolicella Superiore Monte Lodoletta is intense, with a captivating bouquet that combines cedar shavings, savoury herbs and balsamic spices with rum-soaked cherries, sweet lavender and dark chocolate. The palate is lapped by a silky texture that offers an abundance of tart red and black fruits and a hint of espresso. Crisp mineral tones and zesty acidity provide a dramatic lift. The 2016 finishes long and colourful, with a pleasantly bitter hint of cocoa as grippy tannins linger. The 2016 is a muscular dancer that still writhes youthfully." Vinous

"The Dal Forno Romano 2016 Valpolicella Superiore Monte Lodoletta is a wine of characteristically dark intensity and rich extraction. If there is one thing this winery knows how to do, it is to produce great wines with high intensity that find a balance and are complex at the same time. Dal Forno's production is always an artful expression, as these are wines that cannot be made in any other hands. This is due to the unique characteristics of the Lodoletta vineyard with its clayey alluvial soils and the special technology used during fermentation and vinification. This classic vintage shows black fruits, olives, dark tar, mahogany and sweet barbecue spices. The wine has a soft and rich texture with firm tannins, but finishes relatively dry with an alcohol content of 14%." Wine Advocate

"Dense garnet color, full of polished aromas of balsamic, cedar wood, earthy minerality, licorice, leather, restrained bramble fruit and coffee grounds. Dry, full-bodied and velvety on the palate, with lifted acidity and an austere finish. Long, slightly chocolatey aftertaste." James Suckling

"Compared to the 2017 Valpolicella, it is darker and richer in flavour. It has a nutty, reductive character with hints of mint and fenugreek. In the mouth, it is fleshy and powerful, less vertical than the 2017. The ripe, concentrated red and black berries have a slightly fleshy touch, enhanced by floral notes of iris and violet as well as crushed rock and exotic spices. A lush black cherry emerges towards the end, but this wine still feels quite tight and closed; the best is yet to come." Decanter

As every year, the secret star of the house gives the Dominator in Dal-Forno style. Dark and dense, it reveals an intense bouquet with marmalade-like aromas of red and dark fruits, alongside which spices and wood, tobacco and chocolate echo. At the same time, the youthful, stormy taste is an overwhelming demonstration of power. SUPERIORE.DE

"A compact, focused red, this presents pretty violet, medicinal herb and anise notes on the nose as it slowly expands -- flavors that are more subdued at first on the palate. This is supported by dense, plushly textured tannins, flavors of mulled cherry, dark chocolate and amaro, loamy earth and smoke that are slowly revealed, gaining momentum and lingering on the long finish. Give this some air or time in the glass to allow it to shine brightest." Wine Spectator

"Pungent nose of violets, Amarena cherries, dried figs and slightly charred oak. With air, some toffee notes and pressed flowers emerge. Not so much full-bodied as full-bodied, with silky, fine and polished tannins. Still very young and powerful at the moment. Shows exceptional quality. To be tasted from 2024." James Suckling

"The 2017 Valpolicella Superiore Monte Lodoletta reminds me of all the desserts, spices and sweets you experience at Christmas. A range of medicinal cherries, plum sauce, ginger biscuits, cloves, cinnamon and dried roses are captivating. The wine has enormous depth, but at the same time it has fantastic freshness. The brilliant acidity gives it an energy rarely found in Valpolicella, enlivening the crisp red fruits and pretty flowers within. The 2017 finishes dramatically long and perfumed, with sour blackberries, currants and a bitter hint of cocoa. It far exceeds expectations for a Valpolicella, with the power and flavours of an Amarone, but with a vibrancy that allows it to hold its own at the dinner table." Vinous

La Poja from the vineyard of the same name is a great terroir wine in which Allegrini does not dry the grapes. Made from the indigenous Corvina grape variety, this red wine opens with inviting aromas of ripe black-skinned berries, cedar wood and spices. The elegantly structured, full-bodied palate offers spiced blackberries, liquorice and black pepper alongside fine-grained tannins. Dynamic, precise and very elegant in all its components, it offers maximum enjoyment and promises a terrific development. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, rich ruby colour. Opens with notes of fresh red cherries, some blackcurrant, but is also somewhat closed. Lots of velvety, well-integrated tannins, plus some milk chocolate with redcurrant, pithy, spans a wide arc, savoury." Falstaff

"The 2018 La Poja opens slowly in the glass as notes of crushed ashen stone and savory herbs give way to crushed cherries and blueberries. This is a decidedly delicate and finessed style. Brisk acidity enlivens its tart wild berry fruits as plum and dark chocolate notes evolve toward the close. The 2018 leaves a coating of fine tannins to linger, finishing with admirable length yet structured. Always a standout, La Poja is a varietal Corvina made entirely from fresh (not dried) grapes." Vinous

"Attractive aromas of dark raspberry jam, dried strawberries and figs with hints of dark chocolate, flowers and orange rind. Medium-to full-bodied with very silky tannins and lovely dryness to the mid-palate. Impressive concentration and length, showing a very long, persistent finish with juicy black cherries and bitter chocolate at the end. Nothing sweetish here." James Suckling

"Aromas of black cherry and plum combine with sandalwood, clove, allspice and savory herbs to woo you into the glass. Elegant, refined, structured and full in body, this wine is pure class. The dark-hued fruit flavors are integrated with the savory elements of the wine, where each plays a key role. The star of the show is on the finish where a distinct minerality reminiscent of chalk stands firm with a lift of acidity around it." Wine Enthusiast

"This 2018 La Poja is super-bright and herbal, with cool, sapid black and red berries accompanied by balsam, violet and lavender overtones. Precise and vertical yet silky-soft and succulent, it perfectly balances high acidity with creamy intensity, and needs more time to show its best." Decanter

Celestino Gaspari is regarded on the scene as the successor to Giuseppe Quintarelli, having worked there for many years as cellar master. His vintage Amarone has an intense ruby colour with a garnet sheen. The full bouquet has aromas of dark chocolate, prunes, black cherries and cloves. Complex and full-bodied on the palate, very juicy fruit, cherries, plums flanked by a gentle tannin. It offers an impressive multi-dimensionality and great richness, which is evenly distributed across all the senses - regardless of whether it is drunk young after a few hours of decanting or whether it reaches further maturity in the bottle over many years with good storage. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense ruby red colour tending towards violet. Rich, fruity nose with notes of sour cherries, plums, raspberries and a light, well-integrated vegetal note, followed by liquorice and walnut. Striking and rich on the palate, the dense tannins ensure a lingering flavour on the palate." Falstaff

"The 2017 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico is savoury and unexpectedly fresh with a bouquet of crushed black cherries and dried roses accompanied by savoury, exotic spices. The wine has a silky texture with a balanced inner sweetness that complements the depth of the mineralised red and black fruits. The residual acids provide a lovely energy on the inside, while the liquorice and citrus notes slowly fade into dark chocolate, all beautifully framed by a layer of fine tannin." Vinous

"Needs air to develop the beautiful black fruits on the nose, from redcurrants to dates and fresh elderberries. On the palate, however, the fruit unfolds immediately and takes on inky, liquorice notes and a hint of polished oak as it progresses. Full-bodied and beautifully focussed with good power and balanced structure. The finish is long, but will gain in length and complexity as it matures in the bottle. A "modern" wine, but one that betrays nothing of the Amarone tradition. Excellent. Drinkable now, but it will continue to improve." James Suckling

Alongside dal Forno's Valpolicella, this is probably the only wine from this appellation that redefines the character of this famous Veronese red wine in a stunning way and justifiably sets a benchmark that is unattainable for most winemakers in the region. Deep, dark ruby red in colour with scattered garnet-red reflections. A cornucopia of small red berries on the nose, plus sweet cherry, cedar wood and smoke. Firm, complex and multi-layered on the palate with an elegance that forms a masterful symbiosis with the impressive body. Produced using the traditional Ripasso method and, as always, perfectly modelled by hand. Magnificent! SUPERIORE.DE

"Aromas of red cherries, subtle black pepper, graphite and flowers. Full-bodied with tingling acidity and warming alcohol. Firm, chalky yet ripe tannins that are still a little taut at the end and a good, toasty finish. Lush fruit, but balanced overall by the structure." James Suckling

Very deep with exotic spices and dried black cherries. More savoury than sweet on the palate, salty minerals, sour citrus and a touch of juicy acidity mingle with robust and dark red fruits. Finishes long and leaves an autumnal aromatic carpet of spices and a hint of vanillin oak, always fresh and never too broad. In its balance and beguiling nature, it has an almost dangerous drinkability that is likely to lead to emptying the bottle far too quickly ... SUPERIORE.DE

"Elegant, dark ruby with violet hints. In the nose of fresh brown bread, then of pickled cherries, plums, also floral of roses and lilac, blackberry syrup in the aftertaste. On the palate with slightly noticeable wood and a bitter undertone, spicy, dense without being ponderous, lingers for a long time." Falstaff

"The 2015 Recioto della Valpolicella Classico is intense and more savory than sweet, with a blend of crushed ashen stone and grilled herbs giving way to dried black cherries. Its silken textures coat the palate with depths of ripe red and black fruits complemented by dark chocolate and inner rose notes. This leaves a bitter balsamic twang as the lips curl, and the mouth is left watering for more. For all of its power, the 2015 comes across as remarkably balanced and enjoyable today, but also with a bright future ahead of it." Vinous

"A slightly heady nose of sweet, dried black fruits that continues on the palate. Full-bodied with well-integrated tannins that drive the fruit. Well structured and everything in order." James Suckling

Masari only brings its famous Merlot to the cellar and bottle in the best years. Dark, deep garnet red in colour. Aromas of black, ripe fruit with spices, balsamic herbs, aniseed and liquorice on the nose. Well and firmly structured on the palate with silky tannins and a wonderful mouthfeel. Despite its maturity, it appears much younger as it has a harmonious acid wire on the finish. 100% Merlot - 100% terroir. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby-garnet colour with a brightening rim. Impressive, rich nose of ripe blackberries, plums and preserved cherries, with some sandalwood. Multi-layered and full-bodied on the palate, ripe berry fruit, especially blackberry and dark currant, opens up with grippy, dense tannins, full-bodied pressure on the final." Falstaff

"This top wine from the Masari winery is made from 100% Merlot and is only produced in vintages that bring out the best in this wine. The wine has spicy aromas of dark plums around a core of sandalwood, cloves, liquorice and tobacco. The velvety tannins glide across the palate, while flavours of preserved cherry, chocolate, aniseed and black tea combine and finish with soft and gentle lightness." Wine Enthusiast

"The highly aromatic Monteplugo 2015 seduces with a blend of crushed blackberries and redcurrants lifted by mentholated herbs, sweet spices and a hint of violet candy. On the palate, it flows with textures of pure silk and polished red and blue fruits. The cooling acidity provides a lovely inner freshness. Notes of cherry combine with chalky mineral tones and a hint of blood orange as the 2015 finishes long and colourful, with just a hint of fine tannin to frame the experience. The Monteplugo shows plenty of sexy oak while retaining the core of the Merlot grape variety. Well done." Vinous

"A deep, brooding nose of black cherries and blackcurrants with nuances of bright black cardamom and black peppercorns. Apples too. Full-bodied with a dense fruit core and fine, slightly firm tannin and a long, flavourful finish. Beautiful intensity and focus. So well structured. This wine is very enjoyable to drink now, but can be cellared for a few more years." James Suckling

This great wine is only released for sale nine years after the harvest: The slow drying of the fully ripe grapes gives this cru its immense strength and density as well as its extraordinary character with powerful ripeness, fruit fullness, beautiful concentration and great elegance. On the palate, Bertani's Amarone demonstrates freshness, noble lightness and great dynamism. An exciting wine and for decades probably the most classic Amarone - the archetype, so to speak - of the entire appellation. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, very intense ruby colour. Opens with light mineral notes, followed by preserved cherries and rich red berry fruit, with fine blood orange in the background. Very precise attack and finish, elegant cherry fruit, grippy, dense tannins, opens up in many layers, fine enamel, already easy to drink, very juicy, great development potential." Falstaff

"Medium garnet red colour. There's so much going on here on the nose! Fruit and dried spices. The next time I'm in an Indian restaurant with a good wine list, I want to try an Amarone. Really very complex and exciting. So fresh and clean! Dry finish. So different from the commercial Amarone norm. Really quite exciting." Jancis Robinson

"The 2012 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico takes its time to open up in the glass, slowly evolving with a rich blend of crushed black cherries complemented by dusty purple flowers and exotic spices. The palate is silky smooth but with cooling minerality and vibrant acids that give an energetic feel, while a saturation of red fruits and fine tannins emerge towards the finish. The 2012 finishes lightly textured with an echo of balsamic spice and bitter cocoa notes still lingering - a fantastic and truly harmonious rendition of Bertani's Amarone Classico." Vinous

"This wine is pure in its fruit, earnestness and joy. It opens with aromas of vibrant red plum, macerated red cherries and raspberries followed by cocoa powder, oolong tea and dried violets. Each sniff of the glass brings a new aroma. The wine is earth-driven on the palate, with tobacco and dried red and black fruits blending well with mixed herbs, savory spices and elegant tannins, all leading to a fresh acidity that makes the wine pop on the finish." Wine Enthusiast

"Wow, what a complex bouquet, with a base of dried cherries that is spiced up with a hint of mild coffee and walnuts. There are also dried flowers, wild herbs and spices such as tarragon and cloves. Subtle hints of dried banana and apricot. The palate is full-bodied, very smooth, intense and balanced, with firm, spicy tannins that drive everything forward. Long, long finish. It's nice to taste it now, but this wine, already almost ten years old, will be in your cellar for a long time." James Suckling

This great wine is only released for sale nine years after the harvest: The slow drying of the fully ripe grapes gives this cru its immense strength and density as well as its extraordinary character with powerful ripeness, fruit fullness, beautiful concentration and great elegance. On the palate, Bertani's Amarone demonstrates freshness, noble lightness and great dynamism. An exciting wine and for decades probably the most classic Amarone - the archetype, so to speak - of the entire appellation. SUPERIORE.DE

"Complex bouquet characterised by red and blue fruits, wild cherry, also wonderfully floral with violets and rose petals. Grippy and elegant on the palate with a terrificattack thanks to the virile freshness and energy, incredibly mineral and gripping in the mid-palate. A great arc of tension." Weinwisser

"Brilliant ruby colour, sparkling, slightly brightening rim. Very clear and precise, flavours of finely ripened cherry and plum, fine spice. Firm, very fine-meshed tannins, has very good tension, juicy." Falstaff

"The 2013 Amarone della Valpolicella initially shows a generous and exuberant style with all kinds of black fruits, tar, spices and a hint of saltiness. But this vintage is also characterised by a particular strength and power, expressed in firm tannins and a solid structural backbone that is best displayed in cooler vintages like this one. The 2013 offers linear power and determination and will certainly stand up to long bottle ageing." Wine Advocate

"This classic Amarone exudes a robust essence of dark fruit and earthy undertones reminiscent of a rich oak forest and worn leather. On the palate, it reveals a captivating story of ripe cherries, plums and a hint of spice, culminating in a velvety finish that lingers like a timeless song." Wine Enthusiast

"A great, dense core of mixed dried berries, along with notes of caramel and a mix of mild Indian spices, from coriander to mace. Full-bodied with a liqueur-like pearl of fruit running through the long, long finish with ample but well-integrated tannins. Excellent and so fresh." James Suckling

"Tenuta Novare, a blend of Corvina Veronese and Rondinella, matured for 7 years in large Slavonian barrels, followed by a year in the bottle, an example of classicism and moderation. Blackberry plum on the nose, a hint of liquorice powder, then eucalyptus. Salty minerality with a balsamic finish." Luca Gardini

Amarone Sergio Zenato Riserva - seductive complexity. Deep bouquet of black berries and cocoa, violets and lavender. The taste with aromas of cherries, blackberries and wild berries, in the long finish the invigorating fresh impressions of medicinal herbs. A noble wine of the upper class. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, shiny ruby. Opened with slightly earthy notes, of porcini mushrooms and dried tomatoes, pickled cherries, chocolate. Dense and compact on the palate, opening with many layers of soft and dense tannin, dark berry fruit, in the finale to noble dark chocolate." Falstaff

"Dried thyme and rosemary are a fragrant entry point for this sleek, sculpted red, cloaking muscular tannins in a well-spiced robe of currant pâte de fruit, tarry mineral, fruit cake and rich hints of melted licorice and mocha." Wine Spectator

"This Amarone shows shaved-chocolate, dried-strawberry and burnt-orange undertones. Full-bodied, round and juicy. Soft tannins. Very intense and flavorful. A complex, layered riserva Amarone." James Suckling

Capo di Stato has long been a legend thanks to its top quality and history. The cuvée of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbech was created by Conte Loredan Gasparini. A wine rich in finesse in the classic Bordeaux style, dense and of outstanding structure with flavours of spices and red fruits. Fascinatingly ripe tannins, skilfully integrated into the new French barrique in which the wine was matured for two years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, bright, rich ruby red colour. Great interplay of spicy aromas on the nose, pepper, cassis, leather, tobacco, then again red pepper, liquorice, forest berries on the finish. Extremely juicy and balanced on the palate, fruit and acidity are well balanced, with pressure, currently still showing young tannins at the back, already pointing to a long life." Falstaff

"This is a historic wine worth the search if you like drinking history. Made from old clones of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec, the wine exudes the dark plummy notes you would expect, with a deep earthy and savory element. Fine, yet firm tannins give the full-bodied wine gravitas as the deep dark fruits yield to cedar, tobacco, clove and worn leather." Wine Enthusiast

"A juicy, medium-bodied red wine with lovely earthy funk, dark olive and pepper notes in the spiced black cherry fruit. Supple palate with firm but silky tannins complementing its fleshy dark cherry core. Good-natured. Better from 2024." James Suckling

Passito Seré is not a new wine from Dal Forno, but the former Recioto DOCG, which is now being marketed as an IGT - if you get to see or drink it at all. Incredibly rich and dense, lots of ripe, dark fruit and roasted coffee beans on the nose. Opulent and generous on the palate, the sweetness shows excellent balance. A particularly structured and almost magical dessert wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"Has a tantalising nose of plums, tar, espresso and dried nuts. Full to medium body, with good supporting tannins that become chewy on the finish, and plenty of dark chocolate and mocha lingering at the end. It will be well worth the wait. Super intense and multi-layered. Like a little vintage port." Wine Spectator

"Dense garnet color, with aromas of fresh figs, cherries, prunes and dark chocolate. Dense and silky with stunning dried prune flavors, a full body and super-lively cleansing acidity despite. A meditation wine with definition and depth. A rarity." James Suckling

"The Rosso Passito Vino Dolce Vigna Serè 2003 is incredibly fresh. It opens like a dusty cedar box with a sweet blend of cloves, cocoa, cherry sauce and dusty rose, lifted by a hint of fresh mint. The whole flows across the palate like pure silk, seamlessly smooth yet surprisingly serene and delicate. Masses of ripe red fruits and inner spices are carried by a zesty acidity. It leaves a hint of raspberry jam and cloves and finishes with incredible length and freshness, making the 2003 a dessert in a glass, but also too easy to drink. And all this with only 140 grams of residual sugar per Liters. The Rosso Passito Vino Dolce Vigna Serè was not allowed to be bottled as a Recioto because it did not fulfil the "specific characteristics" of this category. Marco is of the opinion that this is the best Recioto his father has ever made, even if it cannot be labelled as such." Vinous

Here comes 1st place in James Suckling's TOP wines 2024: this great wine is only released for sale nine years after the harvest. The slow drying of the fully ripe grapes gives this cru its immense power and density as well as its extraordinary character with powerful ripeness, fruit fullness, beautiful concentration and great elegance. On the palate, Bertani's Amarone demonstrates freshness, noble lightness and great dynamism. An exciting wine and for decades probably the most classic Amarone - the archetype, so to speak - of the entire appellation. SUPERIORE.DE

"A vivid ruby color with a garnet tinge and super-restrained nose of licorice, oak bark, smoke, wood, cigar box, leather, dark chocolate, crushed violets and prunes. Freshness and subtlety. Full-bodied and elegant on the palate due to ripe, filigree tannins with long acidity and a toasty, savory aftertaste. One of the great Amarones. Corvina and Rondinella. Ready to drink now, but intended for the long haul." James Suckling

Just 500x sets of 3 of these three exceptional site wines go on sale worldwide with each vintage. We are pleased to present this strictly limited wine journey through the volcanic terroir of the Soave Classico area exclusively in Germany:

There are special places (Italian: luoghi) where the sun and wind behave in an unusual way, where the soil has a different colour and the plants follow their own rhythm. The ancient Romans also knew this and believed that these places were alive, inhabited by a supernatural being, the "genius loci", which determined their character. The three new sites-Soave Fittà, Castellaro and Tremenalto-are among them: They are places that have always been considered particularly suitable for viticulture in the Soave Classico region due to their unique soil characteristics and microclimate, so much so that they have now been officially recognised and included in the production regulations as "UGA" (Additional Geographical Units).

The three Tessari sisters recognised the potential of their volcanic soils in the Soave Classico region early on. For many years, their wines have been among the best that the region produces every year. In recent years, they have identified three small parcels, from which three single-varietal Garganega wines are being sold for the first time today with the 2020 vintage: Fittà, Castellaro and Tremenalto Soave Classico DOC 2020. They were all vinified in the same way, but each embodies the differences of the respective terroir and microclimate and at the same time the richness and diversity of the volcanic soils formed over 20 million years ago. The basaltic rock that makes up these soils has been undisturbed at depth for thousands of years and has dissolved to such an extent that the roots of the vines can easily penetrate it and also assimilate it.

But is it only the soil that determines the uniqueness of a wine? No, it is rather the place to which it belongs, in its entirety, of which the soil is a very important element, but not the only one. A place is made up of its peaks and valleys, its forests, trees and vineyards, a place is also made up of its inhabitants, its people and animals, its climate, the sun, the water and the wind and all these things that interact in a complex, unique and sometimes mysterious equation.

And that's the really brilliant thing about the three strictly limited wines - they embody exactly the essence of the place they come from. SUPERIORE.DE

1 bottle à 0,75l | Fittà Soave Classico DOC 2020 (BIO)

The vineyard of about 1 hectare is located on the ridge that connects the village of Fittà with the slopes of Monte Castellaro. It is situated on a slightly hilly, south-facing area and comprises a short, stepped slope that descends to the east towards a small cut in the ridge. The subsoil consists of altered basalt volcanite. Two different soil types have been identified here: The first is highly developed and structured, the second is influenced by the slope and indicates a versatile variety of highly altered basaltic rock. The vines were planted as early as the 1940s and are now on average 80 years old.

"This is really serious Soave with loads of candied, licoricy character to the bright peach flesh and peach skin. Medium-to full-bodied with chalky tannins. The finish is long and rapier-like, unleashing the barest floral and stone fruit persuasions. Time will surely help this. Stay tuned!" James Suckling

James Suckling: 95 points

1 bottle à 0,75l | Castellaro Soave Classico DOC 2020 (BIO)

The Castellaro vineyard consists of a small parcel located on the slopes of the mountain, on the northern slope that rises towards the village of Fittà. The altitude is between 200 and 220 metres above sea level, with a slope of 10-20%. The subsoil consists of altered basalt volcanite. In the Castellaro vineyard, a moderately deep soil has been identified, characterised by a stony profile and cultivated throughout its depth. The vines were planted in the early 1970s and are now over 50 years old.

"A mineral voltage kicks off proceedings, doused with the white pepper and jasmine that often marks great Soave. Flecks of stone fruit, subtle and cool of aura. Extended time on lees (12 months) promotes tension. Toasted almond and raw pistachio, too. This has wonderful thrust of energy and sublime tension. Needless to say, the finish is very long. Among the finest white wines in Italy." James Suckling

James Suckling: 95 points

1 bottle à 0,75l | Tremenalto Soave Classico DOC 2020 (BIO)

The Tremenalto vineyard is located in the Moscatello area, on a west-facing slope with a total area of about 2 hectares. The area called Tremenalto consists of a series of slopes and small valleys that join the Alpone valley to the north of the village of Fittà. The altitude ranges from about 80 to 130 m above sea level, the average slope is 25 %, with extremes of 5 and 40 %. The subsoil consists of metamorphosed basalt volcanite, the vines were planted in the early 1960s and are now over 60 years old. Three different soil types with very different characteristics have been identified in the Tremenalto vineyard, reflecting the diversity of the basaltic rocks and the different intensity of the slope processes to which they have been subjected: the first, strongly reddened by oxidative processes of mineral alteration; the second, deep and developed, on an undulating surface that has been essentially spared erosion; and the third, strongly eroded, shallow and clearly modelled by human activity.

"The ripest and fleshiest wine of the bunch. Clay. Quince marmalade, candied orange zest, dried mango and pineapple chunks. Broad and textural. As reliant on a broad sweep of phenolics across the palate, as it is on an underlying skein of freshness. A big wine, built for an open mind and a diverse table." James Suckling

James Suckling: 94 points

Amarone Sergio Zenato Riserva - seductive complexity. Deep bouquet of black berries and cocoa, violets and lavender. The taste with aromas of cherries, blackberries and wild berries, in the long finish the invigorating fresh impressions of medicinal herbs. A stately wine of the upper class. SUPERIORE.DE

"It is a real palate pleaser with lush notes of black cherry coulis, raspberry ganache, strawberry jam, ground anise and espresso. Fine-grained tannins frame this lively, silky red, with notes of smoke, dried herbs and spices that linger on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"The Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva Sergio Zenato 2007 by Zenato is of great fascination. Truffles, tobacco, orange peel and incense give it exotic dimensions, nuances and complexity. The incredibly young 2007 will need at least a few years in the bottle, but it will always remain an opulent wine built on texture and volume. All the elements come together to create a remarkable wine that stands out for its purity and depth. This is a fabulous achievement by Zenato." VINOUS

"Tertiary aromas laden with mahogany, toasted chestnut, varnish and umami, like dried porcini rolled in coffee grind. A forceful thrust of fruit and parry of impeccably hewn tannins. An impressive wine that is as hedonistic as it is intellectual. The style is contextually dry, powerful and layered." James Suckling

This exceptional Recioto was matured for 6 years in Slavonian oak. Deep, dark ruby red in colour. In the nose, a beguiling extract of black cherry, dried flowers and a fine spiciness, with hints of liquorice and mint. On the palate, the fruit is uniform, extremely harmonious and concentrated to the point. Notes of gingerbread, dark chocolate and black cherry glide into an almost endless finish with an unforgettable aftertaste. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby with purple hues, the 2015 Recioto della Valpolicella Classico is youthfully coy, requiring coaxing to evolve in the glass. Swirling and time bring forward a more savory bouquet as exotic spices, balsamic tones and hints of incense emerge, followed by dried blueberries and violet pastille. This is pure seduction, like silk draped across the palate, revealing depths of ripe black cherry and wild berry fruits, enhanced by a core of blood orange. Even at 70 grams-per-liter of residual sugar, it's hard to perceive the 2015 as a sweet wine. Its zesty acidity adds harmony, closing with a pleasantly bitter tinge and gently grippy tannins that frame the experience so well." Vinous

La Grola is the eponymous, historic vineyard where Corvina, the indigenous grape of Valpolicella, is believed to have originated. The replanting of the vineyard by Giovanni Allegrini triggered an agronomic revolution and laid the foundations for the success of this wine-growing region, which today stands for convincing, great red wines from the north-east of Italy.

Dense, dark ruby red in colour, very rich and powerful on the nose with notes of wild and overripe berries. The rich fullness of coffee to black cherries is underlined by present, pleasant tannins. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dense ruby red colour with brightening edges. A fragrant nose of dried flowers, sultanas and coffee, with pickled plums on the finish. Full-bodied on the palate with surprising acidity and a repeated coffee flavour on the finish." Falstaff

"Intense plums, raspberries, roses, bay leaves and a peppery note. Soft attack with velvety tannins that are a little taut on the finish. Crisp and exciting, with very well-integrated and crisp acidity, a medium body and good length. There is a lot of drinkability in its complexity." James Suckling

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the label creation by artist Tono Zancanaro for the famous Capo di Stato, a special, strictly limited wooden box has been created. It contains one bottle each of Capo di Stato 2018 with the labels "Des Roses Pour Madame" and "... Et Pour Monsieur La Bombe". Each box also contains a numbered and signed guarantee certificate and a small booklet revealing the history of the two famous "Lui e Lei" labels.

Capo di Stato has long been a legend thanks to its top quality and history. The cuvée of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbech was created by Conte Loredan Gasparini. A wine rich in finesse in the classic Bordeaux style, dense and of outstanding structure with flavours of spices and red fruits. Fascinatingly ripe tannins, skilfully integrated into the new French barrique in which the wine was matured for two years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, bright, rich ruby red colour. Great interplay of spicy aromas on the nose, pepper, cassis, leather, tobacco, then again red pepper, liquorice, forest berries on the finish. Extremely juicy and balanced on the palate, fruit and acidity are well balanced, with pressure, currently still showing young tannins at the back, already pointing to a long life." Falstaff

"This is a historic wine worth the search if you like drinking history. Made from old clones of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec, the wine exudes the dark plummy notes you would expect, with a deep earthy and savory element. Fine, yet firm tannins give the full-bodied wine gravitas as the deep dark fruits yield to cedar, tobacco, clove and worn leather." Wine Enthusiast

"A juicy, medium-bodied red wine with lovely earthy funk, dark olive and pepper notes in the spiced black cherry fruit. Supple palate with firm but silky tannins complementing its fleshy dark cherry core. Good-natured. Better from 2024." James Suckling

Initially youthfully reserved, it needs to be "coaxed" to reveal its aromas of dried black cherries, mocha and cloves, underscored by a hint of fresh mint. Impressive on the palate with a blend of sweet spices, lush ripe wild berries and a silky texture balanced by lively acidity and a pleasantly bitter hint of dark chocolate towards the finish. Finishes classically dry with dramatic length and potency, leaving a layer of fine-grained tannins that saturate and promise many years of positive development. Allegrini has hit the bull's eye with this wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense ruby red colour with a violet shimmer. Inviting aroma of ripe blackberries, cherries and sweet tobacco on the nose. A finesse-rich acidity on the palate, precise fruit flavours paired with spicy notes, finely integrated tannins and a long final." Falstaff

"Aromas of plums and black cherries, which fade into notes of black tea, violets and savoury spices. The palate is balanced and highlights both fruity and non-fruity flavours in equal measure. Black and red berries share the stage with notes of espresso, aniseed, dried leaves and limestone. Fine tannins and an expressive acidity make this wine a flagship." Wine Enthusiast

"The Allegrini 2019 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico is a classic profile for air-dried fruit made with appassimento. A hint of candied cherry adds lift and intensity to the bouquet, which is otherwise characterised by heavier tones of black fruit, candied cherry, red liquorice and sweet earth or potting soil. It finishes with a balanced, full-bodied style." Wine Advocate

"On the one hand a modern interpretation of Amarone, on the other hand dense, fresh and alpine in flavour, full of alpine herbs and spruce sap. Bitter cocoa, ground espresso and the usual pithy tannins of dried grape skins, menthol and black liquorice. Immense, powerful and fresh." James Suckling

"A cool, damp vintage that has given this Amarone a balsamic, leafy character without losing any of its concentration. Rich and lively, it opens with flavours of mint chocolate, coffee and black pepper, while a background of woody tannins supports creamy black and purple fruits. The good acidity softens the richness and the final is characterised by red and blue berries and a leafy note." Decanter

"The 2019 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico is youthfully restrained and needs coaxing to reveal its aromas of dried black cherries, mocha and cloves, underscored by a hint of fresh mint. It impresses with a blend of sweet spices, lush ripe wild berries and a silky texture balanced by lively acidity and a pleasantly bitter hint of dark chocolate towards the finish. The wine finishes classically dry with dramatic length and potency, leaving a layer of fine-grained tannins that saturate and promise many years of positive development. Allegrini has really hit the bull's eye with this wine. Wow." Vinous

"A classic of the type, a blend of Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella and Oseleta, aged for 120 days, then 18 months in barriques, black cherry in alcohol on the nose, fresh pepper leaf, peony and nutmeg. Iodised salt on the palate, with a fruity-balsamic finish and a spicy aftertaste." Luca Gardini

The showpiece of the Zenato winery from the terrific year 2006 with a perfect balance between expressiveness, elegance and almost infinite length. SUPERIORE.DE

"This is a real beauty, with huge intensity and loads of deep chocolate fudge, black cherry, cola, barbecue and black licorice flavors. It manages contrasting tones of sweet versus savory that pleasure the tastebuds. The palate is rich, smooth and superconcentrated." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2006 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva Sergio Zenato wraps around the palate with layers of mocha, espresso, Morello cherries, spices, mint and new leather. It is a wonderfully plush, expressive wine loaded with aromatic and flavor complexity. There is plenty of inner perfume and sweetness, but what impresses most is the wine's sense of structure and length. Darker notes flesh out on the finish adding a baritone register to the fruit that is highly appealing. This is a fabulous showing from Zenato." Wine Advocate

"Incredible nose of wet earth, spices, dark chocolate and blueberries. Stunning. Full body, with superfine tannins and polished texture. Balance and harmony. Better in three or four years." James Suckling

 

Capitel Monte Olmi 2017 takes things to another level. It coats the glass with a deep purple glow and exudes a dark and seductive bouquet of redcurrants, sultanas, black liquorice and a hint of spiced citrus. The deep, velvety texture is complemented by juicy acids and tart red fruits that drench everything they touch, leaving a complex layer of savoury spices, minerals and fine tannins. This wine is structured, long and full of character, but with a balance that will carry it for many years in the cellar. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, shiny ruby red with garnet reflections. Very intense aromas of blueberry, black elderberry, ripe plum, sandalwood, chocolate and tobacco leaf on the nose. Powerful and very fruity on the palate, delicately spicy and dense, with fine tannins, very balanced final with great drinking pleasure." Falstaff

"Blackberry pie, sweet and savoury spices, woody herbs and violets swirl in the glass. In the mouth, it's lush and creamy, with cooked plums and black cherries on the mid-palate accompanied by anise, clove and pepper, finishing with fine tannins and bright acidity. The wine shows the 2017 vintage with its concentrated richness, but there is enough acidity to hold the wine together." Wine Enthusiast

"Restrained and deep nose of black pepper, earth, blackberries, blueberries and bay leaves. The attack is lush, dense and velvety, with a full body, refined tannins, firm acidity and great balance throughout. Long, amazing finish with dark chocolate notes." James Suckling

"The 2017 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva Capitel Monte Olmi is youthfully shy, slowly unfurling notes of cocoa, cloves, lavender and dried black cherries as it swirls. Creamy and seamlessly silky, it soothes the palate with its cooling acidity as the masses of ripe red and blue fruits slowly saturate. A bitter hint of dark chocolate lingers along with a tart berry concentration framed by crisp tannins. For this warm and dry vintage, this is an excellent performance. Its balance is just right." Vinous

"One of the most traditional wineries in Valpolicella, ancient wisdom combined with modern intuition. A Riserva made from Corvina, Rondinone, Rondinella and other red grapes, taut on the nose with notes of laurel and eucalyptus, fresh, dense and deep on the palate, with a spicy-salty finish." Luca Gardini

The grapes for this graceful Valpolicella Classico come from the Miniere vineyard on the Bertani Villa Novare estate, a south-west-facing site covering just 4 hectares and consisting of two terraces. Bright ruby red in colour, with a very clear nose of fresh fruit, cherry and wild berries, with elegant notes of white pepper. Spicy, juicy and flavoursome on the palate, with remarkable persistence, straightforwardness and great length! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright red; fresh, fruity, inviting; juicy, balanced, reductive, off-dry." Merum

"Sparkling ruby red colour. Delicate fruity notes on the nose, raspberries and cherries, some orange zest and a hint of herbs. Pomegranate on the palate, fresh and straightforward, refreshing acidity, delicate tannins, salty final." Falstaff

The grapes for this high-calibre Valpolicella Classico Superiore come from the rather barren, calcareous and terraced vineyards of Tenuta Novare above the Ognisanti church. Wines of greater complexity, perfect structure and higher concentration are produced here than in most other vineyards in Valpolicella. Sparkling ruby-garnet colour. Fragrant nose with wonderful overtones of sour cherry, dried flowers and white pepper. Perfectly balanced on the palate with firm tannins and wonderful spice and depth of fruit thanks to the ageing in wood. A superior, winning wine from the heart of the Valpolicella region. SUPERIORE.DE

"Light ruby red colour with edge brightening. Lots of herbs and tobacco on the nose at the start, followed by compact cherry fruit. Lively and refreshing on the palate, harmonious, animating, juicy, ripe tannins and vibrant acidity, lingering final." Falstaff

"There is a palpable energy to this gorgeous expression, distinguishing it from the galumphing standard of so many in the region. Pinot in spades, with a tingle of red mountain berries and orange peel. The taut and pumice-like tannins direct crunchy length. The oak is evident but very subtle. The acidity is palate-whetting and juicy. A delicious wine." James Suckling