Falstaff | 95–100 Points

Ramitello impresses with an immense aroma of intense red fruit flavours and delicate balsamic notes. The taste is warm and full, with rich fruit tones spiced with a hint of tobacco, coffee and liquorice. SUPERIORE.DE

"Very dark ruby red with garnet reflections and a violet-coloured core. Very ripe blackberry and blueberry fruit on the nose, followed by earthy notes, eucalyptus and coffee powder. The palate shows great balance and equilibrium, the long final is very fruit-driven, the grippy tannins full of tension." Falstaff

"The 2020 Ramitello lifts from the glass with a darkly floral bouquet of stone dust, hints of cocoa, crushed blueberries and blackberries. It opens with a pretty inner sweetness and soothingly round textures, gaining tension through a core of tart wild berry fruits and a tinge of dark chocolate. The 2020 finishes staining and intense with admirable length, leaving edgy tannins to resonate." Vinous

"A concentrated, tasty red wine with aromas and flavours of mulberry, laurel, sage and black bean. It is full-bodied, dark fruity and balanced with medium-bodied tannins." James Suckling

The grapes for Ciampagnis come from a 7.8-hectare vineyard located just above sea level at an altitude of 32 metres. Fresh, Mediterranean-spicy bouquet with notes of white flowers and an exotic touch of mango, lychee and rhubarb. Medium-bodied on the palate with a beautiful silky texture, full-bodied flavours of citrus, pineapple and apple, the long ageing on the lees ensures terrific freshness and complexity. A seductive wine with great potential for enthusiasm, full of energy and personality with a mineral finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright straw yellow with golden reflections. Very intense nose of exotic fruits such as pineapple, mango and papaya, plus salted lemon and mint. Very juicy, salty on the palate with exotic, long-lasting fruit flavours as well as good pressure and an animating drinking flow." Falstaff

"This vibrant Chardonnay shows good balance and integration, offering bright pineapple and persimmon fruit flavours with a rich hint of grilled macadamia nut and aromas of orchard blossom and mountain herbs. Creamy and mineral on the finish." Wine Spectator

"A tight and slightly herbaceous chardonnay that’s fully focused on fresh pink grapefruit and a lot of mangoes at its core. Light-bodied, it shows a silky, super-refined texture, fruity length and refreshing acidity." James Suckling

"The 2022 Chardonnay Ciampagnis is a seductress that captures the imagination with a beguiling array of crushed nectarines infused with tropical citrus, a hint of curry leaves and sweet, sweet spice. The wine impresses with a balance of contrasts, combining tart fruit and green citrus notes with cool acidity and a hint of apricot towards the finish. Incredibly fresh and dramatically long, the Ciampagnis finishes with a colourful length and gentle tannins that leave a pleasantly tart sensation that lingers." Vinous

The Passito I Capitelli is like a delicious sweet, with a lightly mouth-coating and finely knitted palette of flavours that includes fruity notes of papaya, candied watermelon, preserved Meyer lemon and dried fig, with aromatic accents of tea rose, star anise and pickled ginger just above the dryness level. Luscious and juicy, with fresh acidity on the slightly roasted finish, great! SUPERIORE.DE

"A sweet and nutty passito with aromas and flavors of dried peach and apricot. Some floral complexity, too. It’s full and sweet, but contained, without any cloying or syrupy character. All in all, it’s a nimble, balanced and inviting sweet wine." James Suckling

"Silky and lightly mouth-coating, this bright, smooth bonbon offers a core of mandarin sorbet, mango and passion fruit coulis. It offers aromatic accents of candied ginger, jasmine, graham cracker and chive blossom and has a long and creamy finish." Wine Spectator

This grappa is made from the marcs of the famous Bordeaux blend Capo di Stato. Fresh and clear with a slightly peppery bouquet and hints of spices and berries. The aromatic components continue on the palate with finesse until the elegant finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Very fruity nose, of cherries and raspberries, wild strawberries, flowers in the finish, very fresh. Opens up in the mouth on pear flavours, melting, slightly sweet, well integrated alcohol, very long finish." Falstaff

Polissena shows the typical signature of Il Borro: the wines are made as typical of the grape variety as possible and therefore come into the glass as authentically and transparently as possible - particularly recognisable here with Sangiovese. The nose has a fine cherry flavour with hints of wild berries, forest floor, herbs and a little plum. On the palate, the typical acidity is paired with delicate fruit, a firm centre and a taut final. The 12-month maturation in used and almost neutral barriques is very conducive to the freshness and straightforwardness of the Polissena. Great drinking pleasure and stylistically comparable to a Brunello! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red with a sparkling centre. Candied cherries, oranges, some pomegranate on the nose, fine leather spice, tobacco, fine precious wood and graphite on the finish. Very powerful on the palate, with good length and tension, keeps coming back." Falstaff

"Exquisite nose with herbs, spices and red fruits. Vanilla and dill notes mingle with nuances of cherries and orange peel." Decanter

"The 2019 Valdarno di Sopra Sangiovese Vigna Polissena from Il Borro has undergone a 30-day fermentation and is aged for 18 months in neutral barriques. It offers a silky and gentle character with very direct fruit, which is softened by the oak spice. A nice mineral note rounds things off." Wine Advocate

"The nose is sunny and wild, with aromas of warm tar and brick dust, then Bing cherries and blood orange, then packed earth, crushed sage and wild fennel that roll onto a round and lush palate of strawberries, cherries, bitter orange and wild herbs. A hint of acidity and a growing peppery spiciness on the back palate linger into a lingering finish." Wine Enthusiast

"Flavours of cedar, salted caramel, fresh flowers and cherries follow through to a medium body with ultra-fine tannins that integrate beautifully with the wine. A hint of wood at the end, but a lovely finish." James Suckling

Ben Ryé - the great naturally sweet and world-famous white wine from Donnafugata. The grapes are harvested in mid-August and left to dry naturally for 20 to 30 days. In September, the later ripening grapes are harvested and freshly processed. The hand-picked raisined berries are added to the must in several stages during fermentation. Light orange yellow in colour. Overwhelming aromas of apricot, peach and orange peel. Creamy notes of passion fruit and peach on the palate with an impressive elegance and length. For us, one of the best sweet wines in Italy every year! SUPERIORE.DE

"An icon of sweet Sicily: notes of honey, figs, mint and orange zest; perfectly balanced in the mouth, pleasantly salty with a long bitter-honey finish." Vinum

"Bright amber with copper-coloured reflections. Distinct aroma of dried apricots and figs, stewed peaches, acacia honey, orange blossom and some ginger on the nose, very complex. Very balanced and round on the palate with a great balance of freshness and sweetness, the tannins are well integrated, ending with a long finish of dried fruit." Falstaff

"A beautiful sweet with a fragrant orange blossom nose, with a tantalising array of glazed mandarin, apricot, dried mint and candied ginger, as well as rich hints of graham cracker, vanilla and white chocolate. Long and slightly mouth-coating, with tangy blood orange peel acidity accentuating the juicy finish." Wine Spectator

"Burnt blood orange, autumnal spices, candied ginger, dried nectarines and a hint of mint form a kaleidoscopic bouquet as the 2022 Ben Ryé blossoms in the glass. It feels heavy and velvety, yet remarkably fresh, flooding the palate with an abundance of tropical citrus, mango and papaya supported by a core of zesty acidity. The 2022 finishes with dramatic length and concentration. The finish of peach nectar and savoury spices is long lasting. The 2022 is sure to join the ranks of Ben Ryé's best vintages." Vinous

"Gorgeous flavours of sun-ripened peach, bitter orange peel and dried figs, infused with luxurious flowers that shine through the supple texture and wonderful caress of refreshing acidity. Very engaging and rich, with an unbroken length." Decanter

The world-famous Gewürztraminer Nussbaumer has been a real benchmark for years and is also a convincing wine in terms of longevity. Bright yellow in colour with greenish reflections. Typically perfect, complex and deep, but also agile and fresh with beautiful nuances. A broad bouquet of rose petals, smoke and oriental spices. On the palate it flows silky smooth, velvety and spicy, lingers for a long time, great! SUPERIORE.DE

"Quite a fine, somewhat nutty, floral and herbaceous-vegetable citrus nose with pome and stone fruit notes, a hint of lychee, some yellow spice and orange zest. Ripe, juicy, tightly knit fruit with yellow spice, nutty flavours and floral tones, very fine acidity and a certain sweetness, power and melting on the palate, but also bite, fine vegetal notes, a hint of caramel, moderate grip, persistent, restrained power, certain depth, quite complex, a hint of vanilla and smoke, very good, firm, juicy and spicy finish." Wein-Plus

"Bright and aromatic, with rich notes of lychee, melon, rose petals, peach skin and tangerine as well as savoury hints of blood orange, white pepper and cardamom. This silky, delicious version has a pleasant hint of pink grapefruit peel on the finish." Wine Spectator

"Intense aromas of orange blossoms, honeysuckle, spiced tropical fruit and lychees. Off-dry and full-bodied on the palate, with creamy flavors and a long, composed finish. Moderate acidity with a subtle saline smack at the end. A delicious gewurztraminer to enjoy now." James Suckling

Ramitello impresses with an immense aroma of intense red fruit flavours and delicate balsamic notes. The taste is warm and full, with rich fruit tones spiced with a hint of tobacco, coffee and liquorice. SUPERIORE.DE

"Very dark ruby red with garnet reflections and a violet-coloured core. Very ripe blackberry and blueberry fruit on the nose, followed by earthy notes, eucalyptus and coffee powder. The palate shows great balance and equilibrium, the long final is very fruit-driven, the grippy tannins full of tension." Falstaff

"A concentrated, tasty red wine with aromas and flavours of mulberry, laurel, sage and black bean. It is full-bodied, dark fruity and balanced with medium-bodied tannins." James Suckling

Here comes the new archaic form of Franciacorta - hardly any residual sugar, no dosage, but purism in its purest form. Fresh and direct on the nose, yet finely polished and not exuberant. Extremely elegant on the palate with a fine perlage and plenty of agility. For all its vivacity, it is always sensual, almost distinguished and discreetly subtle and of the greatest harmony. A fresh and crisp fine sparkling wine from the best house and one of the most characterful representatives of its kind at the moment. SUPERIORE.DE,

"Bright straw yellow with persistent perlage. Precise nose of grapefruit, lemon, some wild strawberry, sea salt, intense and appealing, with fine notes of fresh cream on the finish. Juicy, precise, clear on the palate, with a beautiful drive and fine perlage, balanced and harmonious." Falstaff

"The Franciacorta Alma Grande Cuvée Non Dosato is remarkably fresh. A whiff of white smoke gives way to hints of dried flowers, crusty brioche and ginger-spiked apples. This opens with a pretty inner sweetness offset by saline mineral tones and tart orchard fruits. It finishes long and full of tension, leaving a salty flourish savory spice nuances." Vinous

"The Stilèma project was born as a testimony of Antonio Mastroberardino's love for his land, his vines and his wines, for their original character." Piero Mastroberardino

The project aims to highlight the link between the vines, the wines and their territorial origins. In this way, the Mastroberardino family wants to recreate the style of winemaking of the autochthonous grape varieties of Irpinia (Greco, Fiano and Aglianico) that took place between the end of the 1950s and the beginning of the 1970s of the twentieth century for the Taurasi and between the years 1970 and 1980 for the two white wines from Irpinia. It is the unmistakable style (the stilèma) of a family that has interpreted the natural heritage of its territory over generations and today impressively highlights the genuine character of the terroir, which by no means can be expressed by high concentration and intensity alone.

Stilèma Greco di Tufo Riserva is a blend of grapes from the Montefusco, Tufo and Petruro Irpino vineyards. During the cellar processes, special attention was paid to the malolactic fermentation and the ageing phase, which give the wine density and consistency. Pale straw yellow with greenish reflections. On the nose, notes of ripe fruit, lychee and grapefruit, yellow flowers, dried fruit and figs. Powerful but agile taste with a pronounced salty note, accompanied by a surprising freshness that gives it drinkability and finesse. It closes with a subtle and long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich straw yellow with greenish reflections. In the nose of tropical fruits, lychee and grapefruit, in the aftertaste iodine, flint and slightly herbal, very complex. On the palate filigree, very salty and fresh, drinky, with draught, long and mineral final." Falstaff

"The 2018 Greco di Tufo Riserva Stilèma is rich and sweet-smelling, captivating with a tropical blend of green melon and exotic flowers. On the palate, it flows with a medium-heavy texture that feels silky and shows mineral fruit and savoury spices. The 2018 finishes with admirable depth and concentration, ending with a saline feel and notes of lime and liquid stones. While enjoyable, this wine is still very young and needs further ageing to reveal its hidden charms." Vinous

"Peachy piney notes at the start, evolving into more pronounced notes of fresh white grapes, yellow peaches and minerals on the palate. Medium to full-bodied, bright and concentrated. An interesting and refined Greco." James Suckling

"Here is a new wine from Mastroberardino, and what a charming beauty it is. The 2018 Greco di Tufo Riserva Stiléma takes advantage of the new "Riserva" status and offers us a glimpse into the age-worthiness of Greco. It is a white wine with a soft texture and medium-weight approach. The bouquet shows a filigree of lemon curd, pastry cream, saffron and wet stone." Wine Advocate

Tavignano's complex top product Misco Riserva represents the synthesis of the winery's Verdicchio expertise and is its most refined interpretation of the terroir. Starting with the grapes from the Cru Misco vineyard, those grapes are selected that can best develop first in steel and then in the bottle. This ageing process emphasises the richness of the grape variety, its spicy and mineral notes and provides the ideal conditions for long ageing, while retaining its aromatic vibrancy at all times. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, radiant straw yellow colour. Sea salt, raspberries, pineapple, juicy pear and candied lemon zest on the nose with a hint of spice. Opens up on the palate with great playfulness, savoury and clear, appears very noble, lingers long and polished on the final." Falstaff

"The Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico Riserva Misco 2019 is wonderfully perfumed and rich in the glass, with nuances of brown spices and hints of baked apples that give way to sweet floral tones. It also impresses with a silky, almost glycerine-like texture and a depth of ripe apples and pears that practically envelop the salty minerals that only emerge towards the end. The 2019 finishes elegant and long, leaving a subtle hint of lemony tension that lingers. The 2019 Misco Riserva is a real pleasure." Vinous

"The certified organic Tenuta di Tavignano 2019 Castelli di Jesi Verdicchio Riserva Classico Misco is a wine with texture and medium fruit weight. The wine presents many yellow and golden fruits with a hint of saffron and dried ginger. It undergoes partial malolactic fermentation to achieve the extra creaminess that is particularly noticeable in this beautiful vintage. Production is limited to 3,500 bottles." Wine Advocate

"A complex and deep wine with a leesy character and notes of ripe fruit, assertive candied lemons and peaches. Full-bodied, it shows savoriness and crisp acidity that are well integrated with supple fruit." James Suckling

"Deeper and earthier in flavour, it combines floral notes with baked apple, citrus peel and a hint of almond. In the mouth, it is broad, creamy and intense, with apricot, baked apple and hints of black pepper and sweet spices. There is good acidity in the background, supporting a lively and fresh expression; savoury and salty, bright and long." Decanter

A wonderfully concentrated and elegant wine that is already drinking excellently. On the nose, the typical varietal bouquet with light balsamic notes. Pleasantly straight and fine on the palate, silky and full of harmony. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, elegant ruby red. In the nose precise of elderberries and cassis, noble note of green pepper and a hint of ivy, in the reverberation of cranberry jam and noble spice, multilayered. Balanced on the palate, with great play between fruit, spice and tannin, also very juicy, on anise in the finish, long and complex, very well done." Falstaff

"The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Vigna San Francesco is dusty and floral in character, with peppery herbs and wildflowers giving way to masses of crushed raspberry. This is silky and refined, communicating pure elegance from the start, with a wave of ripe red and black berries that wash across the palate, leaving fine-grained tannins to linger under an air of sweet violet and rose tones. It tapers off much fresher than anticipated, and also only lightly structured, as nuances of blueberry skin linger, along with a hint of balsam herbs." Vinous

Michele Satta is one of Italy's greatest ambassadors for the Viognier grape, which he has almost single-handedly brought to this part of the Tuscan coast. His Viognier is sophisticated and seductive, making it the object of desire for wine lovers all over the world. Its inimitable bouquet of apricot and peach exudes an almost cheerful floweriness. Maturation in a combination of cement, oak and amphorae gives this expressive, flavoursome white wine a beautiful note. A dense white wine that spreads out softly on the palate with a lovely salty freshness and a long, delicious finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright light gold with straw yellow colour. Smells very fine on the nose of exotic fruits, rich lemons, plus a light muscat note, banana. Racy acidity on the palate, with present fruit, brisk, precise, really great Viognier!" Falstaff

"A pure viognier with a creamy texture and subtle apple and tropical fruit. Hints of stone and cement, almond and aniseed. Medium-bodied, subtle and thought-provoking. Complex. 50% made in amphora and the rest in cement and wood." James Suckling

Historically, the vineyards of Castello di Fonterutoli are located in the areas of three neighbouring municipalities of Chianti Classico: Castellina in Chianti, Castelnuovo Berardenga and Radda in Chianti. With the 2017 vintage, the Mazzei family vinified all three large vineyards separately as Chianti Classico Gran Selezione for the first time in order to recognise the diversity of the terroir: Castello di Fonterutoli, Vicoregio 36 and Badiola.

Castello di Fonterutoli comes from 11 different plots at an altitude of 420-510 metres around the hamlet of Fonterutoli in Castellina in Chianti. It is both the "Château" and the oldest cru of the estate and was first produced in 1995 as the predecessor to today's Gran Selezione. Rich colour and a clear aroma of blackberries, cherries, violets and flowers, with a hint of nougat. This full-bodied Castello Fonterutoli impresses with its beguiling extract sweetness and polished tannins. The intense and concentrated flavour enchants the senses. The long final is full of elegance. SUPERIORE.DE

"Velvety and seductive in its style, finely woven and with polished tannins, accompanied by sweet fruit and a warm and full-bodied mouthfeel." Weinwisser

"Inviting red and black cherries, wild strawberries and woody notes; intense, balsamic and juicy freshness with grainy tannins." Decanter

"The 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello Fonterutoli is a powerful, earthy wine. Black cherry, grilled herbs, menthol, liquorice, tobacco and dried herbs form the backbone of this powerful, earthy wine. With time in the glass, this wine opens up beautifully. Pretty floral accents and white pepper lift the finish." Vinous

"Lush and velvety, with aromas and flavours of cherry, plum, earth and iron as well as a hint of oak spice. A lively, firmly structured red wine with fine tannins on the finish." Wine Spectator

"Wonderful bouquet of black cherries, herbs and violets, also pepper; extremely elegant in the mouth with a fine finish and tightly woven tannins, ends long on raspberry and violet notes, undergrowth and liquorice." Vinum

"The Mazzei 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello Fonterutoli offers a rich texture, lots of dark fruit and an oak-accentuated overall approach. It finishes gently with cinnamon, baking spice and a sweet note of white chocolate." Wine Advocate

"Attractive aromas of red plums, dried cranberries, flavoured citrus peel, red spices and bark. Medium to full-bodied, broad and structured with ripe and well-integrated tannins and juicy fruit. Exciting. Shows notes of rose petals with crushed rock minerality. Long-lasting and lively finish." James Suckling

"Another great Gran Selezione project for Castello di Fonterutoli. Visciola, a hint of nettle and undergrowth, a nice iodine note on the finish, dense and compact mouthfeel, salty tannins, finish with a fruity and oily aftertaste. Persistent." Luca Gardini

Satta's almost black-violet Syrah with an extraordinary bouquet of blueberry and blackberry liqueur, tar and graphite shines with richness and intensity. Not a flatterer, but not an edgy representative either - a sensational wine for today and the years to come. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, brightening ruby red colour. Fragrant, appealing and clear nose of fresh cherries, ripe raspberries, some wild strawberries, rose hips and blood oranges, very fragrant, with elegant floral notes. On the palate with a savoury melt and great freshness, very lively and with a great nerve, accessible, best enjoyed a few degrees cooler, very elegant." Falstaff

"The Michele Satta 2021 Syrah shows some of the almost rusty qualities that the grape can produce, but also has hints of peppercorns and spice. It is lean for a Syrah from Tuscany, and this is a welcome characteristic. It offers delicate flavours of dusty rose, spice and powdery tannins. This expression is elegant and restrained. Only 3,300 bottles were produced." Wine Advocate

"A subtle and friendly syrah with green tobacco, graphite, dried earth, spices and dark fruit. Medium-bodied, refined and flavorful with a firm and bright finish. Chewy at the end." James Suckling

Rich, deep dark ruby colour with a fine violet sheen. Compact and appealing nose, showing crisp fruit, especially blackcurrants and mulberries, underpinned by fine chocolate tones. Extremely precise on the palate too: ripe, fresh fruit, opens with firm, tightly woven tannins, develops rich pressure, then juicy and long-lasting on the final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant ruby red colour. Fragrant on the nose, of precious wood, graphite, a hint of stone fruit, delicate floral tones and some candle wax on the finish. Polished on the palate, with clear fruit and well-integrated tannins, savoury, has a certain light-footedness in the finish without being ponderous, a striking wine that invites you to drink it." Falstaff

"The nose starts with a soft-serve swirl of vanilla and milk chocolate, then deepens into the richer sweetness of dark cherry syrup, which is balanced by the crackling sharpness of pepper and graphite." Wine Enthusiast

Avvoltore is a blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. Powerful and explosive in the glass, it possesses remarkable intensity in all its dimensions, with great fruit and equally impressive tannins. Dark cherry, leather, smoke, tobacco, liquorice and grilled herbs form a virile, imposing Maremma red wine that will need at least a few years to develop its full expressive power. Once again, Morisfarms has done a great job with its flagship wine. SUPERIORE.DE,

"Clear, firm, somewhat smoky and nutty aroma of ripe black and a little red berries with flavours reminiscent of marjoram, partly dried herbs, meaty nuances and a little pepper, tomatoes, sultanas and black olives. Ripe, juicy, slightly warm fruit, youthful, yet crumbly tannins, Mediterranean herbs on the palate, smoke, hints of bacon, pepper and black olives, a little chocolatey wood flavours with notes of candied nuts, persistent on the palate, has power and substance, a little salt in the background, barbecue sauce and sultanas again, very good finish with warm juice and sweetish-tart spice." Wein-Plus

"Ruby red with a dark centre. A nose of currant syrup and figs, also reminiscent of green tea and liquorice. Juicy on the palate, precise and dark fruity, with great tension in the mid-palate, firm pressure and an animating herbal note, good drinking flow, lingering and gentle finish." Falstaff

"Rich, deep and convincing: Colle Sant'Antonio is a small selection of Garganega that I carefully choose in the vineyard and patiently wait for in the cellar." Graziano Prà

Intense yellow with golden reflections. The complex bouquet is reminiscent of ripe yellow fruit, cinnamon, fresh vanilla, acacia and chestnut honey. Its freshness is in perfect balance with its alcohol content and powerful body. Sweet roasted almonds and candied apricots come to the fore in the terrificfinish. The tertiary aromas created by ageing in French oak barrels contribute to the complexity of the flavour and round off the unique drinking experience perfectly. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, light golden yellow with a clear green colour. Great playfulness on the nose, rich notes of apricot and peach, some sage in the background, plus flint. Sparkling on the palate, rich, ripe fruit, paired with juiciness and mineral freshness, long finish." Falstaff

"This light-footed white wine is both lusciously creamy and well polished, with mouthwatering acidity and a fine textural interplay that carries a beautiful array of flavours of baked white cherries and apricots, candied ginger, dried basil and grilled macadamia nuts. Long and juicy on the finish, with hints of honey, minerals and spice." Wine Spectator

"Golden Delicious apples, pressed yellow flowers, acacia honey and wet stone aromas waft from the glass of this heady Soave. The palate is round and structured, with baked fruit, white peach, roasted citrus and mixed spices leading to the mineral finish." Wine Enthusiast

"The Soave Classico Colle Sant'Antonio 2018 has an intense golden yellow colour and shows a rich bouquet of baked apples and pears in the glass, complemented by a hint of aromatic herbs. It soothes with its soft and enveloping texture, remaining wonderfully perfumed and energetic, while ripe orchard fruits and a hint of green melon settle on the palate. The Colle Sant'Antonio tapers off for a long time, allowing hints of white peach and candied lime to slowly fade away. The balance of this wine is exceptional and promises many years of steady development." Vinous

"The wholesome flagship made using a cordon-cut technique to concentrate the fruit in a fusion of three different top crus into a swirl of mandarin, mango chutney, salted quince and pineapple spice. Medium-bodied, luscious, almost exotic, yet with a hint of quinine bitterness on the finish." James Suckling

Ruby red, with a fine cherry scent, in which there are also hints of nuts and wild berries, vanilla, cinnamon, sage and tobacco. Concentrated, rich flavour with harmonious tannins and a long, velvety final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, sparkling ruby with a slight violet shimmer. Multi-layered nose, rich notes of ripe plums, some blueberries, cedar and resin in the background. Juicy and round on the palate, spreads out with powerful, well-integrated tannin, describes a wide arc, firm pressure, long and firm." Falstaff

"Deep crimson. Deep, minty nose with cardamom pod, dark fruit and black-pepper notes and hints of dark earth. I suspect this was aged in chestnut casks. With aeration, increasingly multilayered and growing in stature. Hedonistic dark fruit and finely chiselled tannins on the palate. Very long, generous and complex, but in order for this wine to show its real potential I would put it away for at least five yeas. You don't immediately see it but the bottle has a beautiful shape." Jancis Robinson

"Scorched soil, leather, mature black-skinned fruit and Mediterranean scrub are just some of the aromas you'll find on this blend of Nero d'Avola and Perricone. The enveloping, full-bodied palate delivers ripe blackberry, black cherry, black spice and dried herb alongside firm, fine-grained tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"Good dark red. Ripe, vibrant nose offers kirsch, coffee, chocolate and a whiff of black pepper. At once silky-sweet and tangy, with lovely inner-mouth perfume to the fine-grained red/black fruit flavors. Finishes broad, very smooth and long, with harmonious acidity and ripe tannins giving the wine solid structure for aging. A powerful but already approachable red that will have many fans." Vinous

"Complex and decadent aromas of dark berries, walnuts, licorice, and tar follow through to a full body with rich and ripe fruit and a soft and lightly velvety finish." James Suckling

"This is an iconic Sicilian red that celebrates its 40th anniversary with this handsomely styled bottle. The 2015 Sicilia Contea di Sclafani Rosso del Conte Tenuta Regaleali definitely delivers the goods, but it also delivers a few surprises along the way. There's a lot going on in terms of aromas with softly ripened fruit that is plush and succulent. With a good amount of clarity I might add, you also get varietally true aromas of olive, anise and toasted Bronte pistachio. At the tail end, there is a meaty or savory tone of smoked pancetta or cured ham. The wine shows beautiful intensity and depth with textural richness and integrated tannins." Wine Advocate

Selection of 100% Sangiovese grapes from the estate's vineyards, which are located on the south-eastern and south-western slopes of the municipality of Montalcino at an altitude of 250 to 400 metres above sea level. The soils have an open sandy texture with clay and abundant Galestro skeleton. The wines are aged for at least 24 months in Liters French oak barrels and in Slavonian oak barrels with a capacity of 15-25 hl. This is followed by ageing in the bottle. Talentis Brunello has an intense ruby red colour with garnet reflections, a broad bouquet on the nose, slightly spicy. In the mouth it is full, intense, soft and velvety with elegant and sweet tannins. Wonderful value. SUPERIORE.DE

"The nose is on the cherry side, with a hint of mocha and flowers; the attack is delicate, the clean tannins and acidity in harmony, with a long finish. Also very successful in this vintage." Vinum

"Bright ruby red colour. Very elegant and clear nose of sugared cherry fruit, rosehips, shortbread and Assam tea, freshly ground pepper on the finish. Elegant on the palate, with clear fruit, great acidity and a tense finish, very precise, stunning vintage Brunello!" Falstaff

"Medium to deep ruby red colour. Spicy, aromatic but not sweet oak notes and subdued fruit. Polished cherry and raspberry fruit with a nice bite of ripe tannins on the finish and fully integrated oak. Elegant weight on the palate." Jancis Robinson

"Perfumed, with red berries, cherries and a hint of rose stems on the nose. Medium-bodied, with plenty of wood and richness. Powerful and a little austere, but should soften and come together with age." James Suckling

"It is less exuberant than usual, with mineral and ferrous notes in the lead role. Dried mint and fennel emerge on opening. The palate is full-bodied and fruity, offering great depth of expressive red berry and stony earth flavours. The ripe yet grippy tannins are tightly knit." Decanter

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino opens slowly with a mix of savoury herbs, worn leather, dried roses and cinnamon-dusted currants. It flows across the palate with textures of pure silk, racy yet refined, with a seamless wave of ripe red fruit that slowly saturates towards the finish. The finish is long, colourful yet harmonious. Crisp tannins frame the experience without slowing the momentum, while liquorice and orange notes gradually fade away. This fantastic, energised version of Talenti's Brunello will thrive in the cellar over the next ten to fifteen years." Vinous

"Ripe, sweet cherry, raspberry and iron flavours underline this powerful, juicy red wine, which has a great personality, with a wide range of tannins to go with lively acidity and lingering fruit. Overall, a well-balanced wine with a long, lingering aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"The Talenti 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is a wine of above-average intensity that consistently impresses with its dark aromas of blackcurrant, pitted plum, floral earth and a pungent fragrance reminiscent of black baccara rose. It is a rich and open Brunello with velvety tannins and a full-bodied mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

"The project is based on Pierluigi's vision, which Riccardo brings to the full expression of the south-west quadrant of the DOCG. On the nose, notes of red plums, star anise and hints of wild rosemary. Juicy mouthfeel, with perfectly integrated tannins and hints of sweet spices." Luca Gardini

In the very well-balanced 2019 vintage, the winery offers us an extremely flavoursome and juicy wine that carries the spirit of Montalcino from the first to the last sip. Fine notes of sage and mint beautifully round off the warm, ripe and extremely rich fruit bouquet. The palate prances with a fine red berry acid wire that is underpinned by a great velvety texture. On the other hand, it is a taut, precise and particularly fresh Brunello that delights us even at a young age. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, spicy bouquet with fully ripe fruit, blue berries, ripe cherries, leather and sweet spices. Juicy and beguiling on the palate with redcurrant and pomegranate, followed by tobacco and delicate mineral and herbal notes with balsamic nuances. Very juicy and full of finesse, full of crackling tension and yet so seductive, stylish and powerful. It scores with its subtle and refined style on the spicy final." Weinwisser

"Bright ruby-garnet colour with a brightening rim. Extremely appealing nose, fine aromas of roses, ripe dark cherries, fresh blackberries and a hint of saffron. Supple on the palate with lush fruit, but then also shows grippy, present tannins, firm pressure on the final, long finish." Falstaff

"The Brunello is made from a large number of south-facing, airy plots at an altitude of 240 to 360 metres. The exceptionally fragrant 2019 wine smells of sweet Mediterranean herbs, arbutus and raspberries. It is medium-bodied with soft, sandy tannins and captivates with its tangerine freshness. While a hint of warming alcohol shines through, it retains its graceful stature." Decanter

"Sour cherries with undertones of stone and bark in the flavours. Medium body, firm tannins and a long, linear finish that ends tightly. However, it softens with age. Subtle bark and dried mushroom character at the end." James Suckling

"Dusky cherry and plum flavors are the main themes in this red, with accents of leather, spices and wild herbs. Lively and focused, with excellent harmony and a sequel of ripe cherry on the lingering finish." Wine Spectator

"This wine is not to be confused with a Brunello. The Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona 2019 Brunello di Montalcino shows a beautiful continuity that unfolds in sync on the nose and palate. There are aromas of grilled watermelon, red cherry, garden herbs and violets, and there is a charred note reminiscent of toasted oak. The bouquet is very balanced, but on the palate it is much more powerful, thanks to the high alcohol content of 15% and the young tannins that hit the palate. Give this wine a few more years of bottle ageing." Wine Advocate

"A compact Brunello from Ciacci Piccolomini. The nose opens with notes of cranberry, then marjoram and a hint of eucalyptus. Juicy and taut drinkability, tasty tannins, closes with a return of small fruits and balsamic sensations." Luca Gardini

The top red Riserva from the Bolzano winery has been the undisputed Lagrein Taber for years, with a fine bouquet of wild berry fruit, herbal flavours and spicy notes. Taber is a dense, full-bodied wine with a pleasant acidity and silky tannins, finishing with notes of candied fruit. A top wine from over 80-year-old vines on the Taberhof farm near Gries and a contender for the "Tre Bicchieri" of the Gambero Rosso almost every year. The best Lagrein Riserva in South Tyrol? Find out for yourself! SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep dark purple colour. On the nose, rich heart cherry, blackberry juice, dried violets, with fragrant black bread notes and some precious wood. Very juicy on the palate, tightly woven, fruity, stretches over the tongue with great and fresh notes, savoury, complex and drinky at the same time, exciting and vibrant." Falstaff

"The 2021 Lagrein Riserva Taber opens with plummy and very ripe aromas of confit blackberries, pitted plums and a spicy note of suede or new leather. Lagrein usually has a pronounced creamy side, and this can be felt here, especially through the wine's dense texture and soft tannins. This 2021 vintage is very extracted and dense." Wine Advocate

"A dark and ripe red that impresses with aromas of liquorice, chocolate, cassis and mulberries. Full-bodied and fleshy, with chewy but soft tannins and generous, spicy oak that complements the ripe fruit. An intense Lagrein." James Suckling

"The classic, almost impenetrable, deep blackberry red colour that is so typical of this grape variety. Blackberry and sloe fruit dominate the nose and palate, with notes of dark chocolate and roasted spices. Full and round with ripe tannins, the wine is approaching an early peak but should keep well over the next five to seven years." Decanter

Deep crimson ruby red colour. On the nose, it smells of raspberries with beautiful concentration, a peppery tingle and perfectly integrated oak. Lively, crushed red berry fruit on the palate with long, finely chiselled tannins. It closes up a little on the finish, so you can expect much more, but for now it is already irresistible. Balanced and very elegant. SUPERIORE.DE

"This iconic Sicilian wine is made from Nero d'Avola (58%) and Perricone (42%) and comes from the eight-hectare San Lucio vineyard. The Tenuta Regaleali Tasca d'Almerita 2017 Sicilia Contea di Sclafani Rosso del Conte is easy to recognise in a blind tasting thanks to its characteristic aromas of blackcurrant, olive, aniseed and scorched earth. The wine transports you straight to beautiful Sicily in the heart of the Mediterranean." Wine Advocate

"The 2017 Rosso del Conte captivates with a burst of citrus, black cherry and grilled herbs, accompanied by hints of cedar and undergrowth. It is racy and supple, with a wave of tart wild berry and mineral tones supported by a core of vibrant acidity. Grippy tannins are added towards the end. The 2017 finishes long and persistent with a rich, primary concentration. Notes of medicinal blackberries, liquorice and cocoa linger for up to a minute. The length alone is impressive, but the 2017 will need time to fully integrate. Nevertheless, I look forward to tasting it again in four to five years." Vinous

"This historic single-vineyard blend of Nero d'Avola and Perricone in 2017 is dusty, earthy and woody, with a depth of dark fruits and overtones of lavender and violet. In the mouth it's intense, ripe and spicy, combining sweetness of dried cherry with wild strawberry and black cherry. Balsamic freshness gives contrasting lift to the hefty but fine-grained tannins, while the finish is super-bright and saline with a kick of raspberry. Superb." Decanter

"A traditional blend based on Nero d'Avola Perricone and from vines that only produce a few grams, a concentrate of intensity and history. On the nose, cherries in alcohol, mentholated notes and Mediterranean scrub. On the palate, it is dense and tight, with a fruity, mentholated finish." Luca Gardini

"Elegant, bright ruby red colour with a delicately brightening rim. Exciting and inviting nose of ripe raspberries, wild strawberries, a hint of elderberries, then mint and sage, delicate hints of iron. Compact on the palate with tightly woven, savoury tannins, excellent length, slightly resinous and fruity undertone, rich in finesse and long." Falstaff