James Suckling | 95–100 Points

Wonderfully complex Soave from vines over 20 years old. Sparkling light yellow colour with green reflections. A restrained, reductive bouquet of bitter almond, flint, jam with white and yellow fruit flesh, dried fruit and biscuits. The palate is dry, warm and soft, yet fresh, spicy and slightly astringent, with a full, balanced body. With increasing aeration, it reveals its great complexity. SUPERIORE.DE

"Smells of chamomile and honey, just a teeny bit smoky. Beeswax texture, dense and fondu smooth, but the flavours are anything but. It's fireworks, a kaleidoscope of pepper and sage, candied citrus peel and grilled yuzu. Aloe and lanolin. Pear and tofu curds. Green almonds and walnut. Wonderful saltiness and great tension shaping the finish into long, intent focus." Jancis Robinson

"This Soave is characterised by its indelible concentration, its compact balance and its impeccable details. Complex notes of cardamom, cherries, quince, tamarind and smoked curry leaves. An intoxicating substance. The skilful handling of the skin and careful crafting have produced a style that stands out from the crowd so much that it attracts the drinker in search of loyalty to place and a real point of difference. A whirlwind of intoxicating complexity. A wine for the nerd, the thrill-seeker and the everyday drinker all at once." James Suckling

The pure Nero d'Avola is bursting with dark aromas of berries, black cherry, liquorice and tobacco. Lush and distinctive on the palate with wonderful spicy notes of mint, aniseed and espresso. Juicy tannins, good length, fine pressure. A really great wine of impressive intensity at a still very reasonable price, incidentally certified organic since the 2020 vintage! SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red with violet edges. Fine spicy notes on the nose, ripe plum and forest floor. Balanced on the palate with a fine tannin structure, fresh and fruity core, medium length." Falstaff

"The Saia 2021 exudes a captivating blend of crushed violets, lavender, blackberries and wet stones. A powerful core of ripe red and blue fruits forms the framework, while a juicy acidity provides freshness. A pleasantly bitter hint of tangerine develops towards the end. The 2021 is spotty and long, finishing with a layer of fine tannins and a saturation of primary concentration that creates a slight chewy sensation towards the end. This is a fantastic and energetic interpretation of Saia, a Nero d'Avola grape variety that I suspect will age very well." Vinous

"Lots of blackberries, mushrooms, bark and a hint of pumice. A hint of smoke. Mussel shells. Blue fruits. Medium-bodied with fine and silky tannins that add tension and focus. Black fruits on the finish with a hint of orange peel. Crisp and fruity with structure." James Suckling

Monte Carbonare comes from red volcanic iron soils with plenty of black basalt in the centre. Six hectares of 60-70 year old vines in cooler sites, which continue to rise to the crème de la crème of the top sites as the climate warms. A richer wine than the younger Classico, but without the same cheeky vitality. While the Classico is an unbeatable everyday wine, the Monte Carbonare is a complex wine that demands food and a little more contemplation. Mirabelle plum, apricot pit, a hint of dried mango and plenty of smoky, sharp mineral grip, with dutiful freshness that brings marvellous length. SUPERIORE.DE

"Golden light yellow; yeasty-fruity notes; round, full-bodied, yeasty, complex and deep, juicy acidity, length, drinky." (JLF) Merum

"A serious and very precise Soave with subtle citrus flavours and notes of orange blossom, hay and crushed stones. Finely balanced and concentrated, with a medium body and fine texture. Spicy and exciting with a gentle phenolic note and a hint of lemon peel and ginger on the finish." James Suckling

Ghiaia, a pure Nerello Mascalese from the slopes of Etna, exudes sweet aromas of cherries and flowers. A refined, very detailed and seductive wine with great charm, character and personality. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium-light red colour; rosemary, reductive; juicy, fruity, fluid, certain tannic tartness, length, very pleasant overall." Merum

"A very pretty, fragrant, young Etna Rosso with lots of fresh flowers, focus and finesse. It has a medium body, fine tannins and a long, bright finish. The best ever?" James Suckling

Etna Bianco is smoky in the glass and excites the senses with a burst of crushed rock and raw almonds before fading into a citrus-influenced peach. It is pleasantly soft and enveloping, with weighty textures supported by lively acidity. Mineral fruits and sweet spices meet on the palate. Finishes remarkably fresh yet grippy and long, leaving the mouth wanting more. The complexity of this wine is unrivalled for an entry-level Etna Bianco. SUPERIORE.DE

"Honey blossom, candied ginger, hints of fennel and crushed green apples form a savoury and inviting bouquet when the 2023 Etna Bianco opens in the glass. Ripe fruit meets a core of salty minerals and savoury spices, while a stimulating wave of acidity completely redefines the palate. The 2023 finishes perfumed and long, leaving a pleasantly tart hint of citrus that tickles the cheeks." Vinous

"Mouthwatering and minerally, this light- to medium-bodied white laces sleek acidity and a tangy streak of salinity with chopped almond and apricot flavors, showing accents of Meyer lemon peel, sage and gooseberry." Wine Spectator

"This wine has a restrained character of white pepper and minerals, lemon shrub and fruit pulp. On the palate, the acidity is well integrated with citrus, flint, concentrated fruit and a medium to full body. The finish is super savoury and exciting. Drinkable now, but will get even better with age." James Suckling

Crognolo is a wonderfully balanced wine that offers the tangy freshness and acidity of Sangiovese, which is balanced and softened by the small proportion of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine smells of cherry, blackberry and plum. Its primary intensity is bright and cheerful. The finish shows a nice density, extraction and well-integrated tannins. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Crognolo 2021 is a great entry-level wine from Sette Ponti. An explosion of red/purple fruits, blood orange, spices and rose petals race across the palate, lifted by bright acids that add energy. All elements are very well balanced. This is a very inviting wine." Vinous

"Dusty, perfumed aromas of spiced plums with sour cherries and dried cherries are followed in the mouth by a vertical palate full of fine-grained tannins, fresh acidity and juicy fruit. It feels balanced and upright, ready to spring into action as soon as the cork is pulled. Vibrant red and black fruits intermingle, punctuated by a certain saltiness and supported by those tannins. The finish is long, juicy and flavoursome and leaves you wanting another sip." Decanter

"This young red wine shows all its components in the right place, but needs time to integrate. It offers flavours of cherry, violet, earth, iron and mint, which fade into powerful tannins on the finish." Wine Spectator

"Bright ruby violet colour. Expressive flavours of blackberries and rich cherries, with fine spicy components in the background. Compact, concentrated on the palate, with grippy tannins that also become juicy, salty on the finish." Falstaff

"The wine shows dark concentration, certainly more than you'd expect from Sangiovese, with lots of cherry, spice and blue flower that ties directly into the Merlot. It offers a medium to full-bodied texture with fine, chalky tannins." Wine Advocate

"Ultra-fresh, juicy cherries with more delicate aromas of violets and rose petals on the nose roll onto a palate rich with more cherries and berries balanced by earthy, tart notes of earth, branches and roots and a finish of bitter cocoa and aniseed." Wine Enthusiast

"The purity of the fruit in this wine is impressive, with redcurrants, orange peel, peaches and lemon on the nose and palate. Full-bodied yet compressed and agile. Tasty finish. Restrained now, but given a year or two it will come into its own." James Suckling

The Pinot Grigio Zuc di Volpe impresses with seductive aromas of ripe pears and apricots, accompanied by sweet white flowers and a hint of buttercream. It is silky and round, with a certain heaviness, yet perfectly balanced. Then on the palate, notes of ripe melon underlined by zesty lime and a salty note towards the spicy, smoky final. For all its complexity, very bright and fresh and full of personality. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intensely perfumed and rich in the glass, the 2021 Pinot Grigio Zuc di Volpe wafts up with notes of dried peaches and apricots complemented by a whiff of chamomile. It’s silky, nearly oily in texture, with tart green apple fruits and zesty lime tones complicated by a salty core of minerality. The 2021 lingers incredibly long and savory yet fresh with rosemary and liquid stone nuances. This characterful Pinot Grigio communicates importance and refinement from the first tilt of the glass. Fans of the variety should seek it out." Vinous

"A terrific and serious pinot grigio with lime, apple-pie and lemon-zest character throughout. Full-bodied and driven, with so much fruit flavor and intensity in the finish." James Suckling

Foscarino from vines over 40 years old is matured for 12 months on the fine lees in used barrique barrels and stainless steel and is probably one of the most complex Soave Classico wines we have ever tasted. Bright straw yellow in colour with golden reflections. Elegant, inviting bouquet of light honey, dried citrus fruit, exotic flowers and a hint of ginger. Juicy and straightforward on the palate of layered stone fruit, precise and with piquant acidity, all proportions are impressively right here. Complex and multi-layered, it reveals new impressions with every glass and increasing aeration and ends in a salty finish, very exciting! SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant straw yellow colour with greenish-gold reflections. Elegant and inviting on the nose of ripe stone fruit, with notes of camomile and fine fumé. Almost creamy on entry, glides gently over the palate with a juicy fruit centre and great harmony on the long finish." Falstaff

"This wine is very intense with electric acidity. Dried apples, lemons and minerals with a salty undertone. Full-bodied, with phenolic tension and an extremely long finish. Hints of oysters. It needs another two or three years to show its greatness, but it's already fantastic." James Suckling

Complex and rich bouquet of citrus fruit and sage flavours. Excellently structured and consistent on the palate with a fresh acid wire. This wonderful Sauvignon offers multi-layered fruit notes and great harmony with a delightful grapefruit flavour on the long finish. Good ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"This has aromas of minerals, honeysuckle, flint and slice limes. It’s medium-bodied with fresh acidity and a tight and focused center palate. Tight and linear at the end, with density and focus." James Suckling

The grapes for this Supertuscan come from the San Giovanni vineyard near San Giovanni a Cerreto. In the church next to the vineyard there is a painting by Rutilo Manetti depicting St John the Baptist (San Giovanni). Deep ruby red, youthful, rich, dark fruit, berry and cassis flavours meld with French oak. On the palate with deep, subtle fruit flavours and an excellent balance of fruit and tannin, plus some smoke, liquorice and tar. A rich but not too heavy red with excellent structure and great ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2021 Valdisanti is a bright, punchy wine. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc speak with a decidedly Tuscan accent in this vibrant, mid-weight offering. The 2021 is a distinctive wine with much to offer. Crushed rocks, graphite, lavender and plum all build into the resonant finish." Vinous

"The Tolaini 2021 Valdisanti is a lush expression with a big, upfront delivery of bold black fruit. On the palate, that intensity tapers off somewhat to reveal a silky and elegant mid to full-bodied approach. It shows great length and a softer texture than you might expect given the first impact of the bouquet. You get lingering notes of pencil shaving and toasted oak, but the wine is ready to drink now." Wine Advocate

"Focused like a laser, this racy red features black currant, black cherry, cedar, licorice and graphite aromas and flavors. A balanced version, with a light dusting of tannins shoring up the finish. Excellent length." Wine Spectator

"Clove, vanilla, restrained cherry, milk chocolate and balsamic aromas. The attack is soft and velvety, with dense tannins, a savory character, a full body and crisp, refreshing acidity. Great mid-palate extraction and details. Embracing finish, long and consistent." James Suckling

After almost two centuries, it is time to erect a "monument" to the enthusiastic grape grower Philip Mazzei (1730-1816). In the form of this single-varietal Cabernet Sauvignon, this succeeds extraordinarily well. Elegant, deep dark colour, classic aromas, complex, fruity and spicy flavour, well-proportioned tannins and acidity, taut, structured and persistent. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Philip 2021, 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, is a fine achievement from the Mazzei family. Dried herbs, lavender, sage, mint and liquorice play with a core of blue and purple fruit. There's a lot to like - that's for sure." Vinous

"The Mazzei 2021 Philip is soft and richly textured with all sorts of blackberry and black fruit aromas packed inside. These come through with special intensity in this balanced vintage. The wine style is contemporary and easily accessible for an international palate." Wine Advocate

"Cloves, dark fruit, leather and savoury complexity. Youthful, velvety tannins with crisp acidity, a full body and a spicy finish full of blond tobacco and coffee grounds." James Suckling

Le Rive is a single-varietal Garganega made from grapes harvested late from volcanic soils. On the nose, the aromas of citrus fruit, almonds and exotic fruit are impressive. Its flavour is soft and powerful, with a wonderful freshness right through to the long finish, combined with an ebb and flow of minerals. A wonderful and highly distinctive wine with which the three sisters have once again put themselves at the forefront of their region. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Garganega Le Rive 2021 is a real treat for the nose. A bouquet of honeyed flowers gives way to dried apricots and peaches, embellished by an enriching note of lemon custard. It opens with a balanced inner sweetness that reveals lush, ripe stone fruit and a hint of candied lemon layered over a silky texture. On the long and dramatic final, the 2021 remains coloured in its primary concentration on the palate, lingering with its citrus notes while the mouth demands more. Le Rive is certainly not shy, but the balance is fantastic. Make sure you keep a few bottles in the cellar." Vinous

"This silky white's ripe and juicy flavors of pineapple, melon and guava fruit are well-defined by sleek acidity, with a zesty thread of pink grapefruit peel and ground ginger. Hints of creamed almond and spun honey enrich the fruit profile, while the finish is long and minerally." Wine Spectator

"An 85-year-old parcel opposite Carbonare, harvested late and fermented in tonneaux. The resemblance to a fine white Burgundy is striking. Notes of tangerine, apricot kernel and camomile are underpinned by a racy, stony freshness. A brilliant wine that hints at sweetness but finishes dry, mineral and powerful. From organically grown grapes." James Suckling

This archetypal Etna Rosso presents itself with great grace and beautiful varietal typicity. The bouquet has aromas of strawberry and cherry, the palate has medium-bodied fruit, slightly salty notes and spicy nuances in the beautiful final. It shows the specific volcanic character and is made from 100% Nerello Mascalese, which is harvested at 600 to 700 metres above sea level on ashy volcanic soils. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium-light red colour; fruit, raspberry, appealing; juicy, fluid, depth, finely tart, subtle wood." Merum

"Berry bouquet with ripe red fruits such as red cherries, pomegranate, orange peel, plus bloody iodised notes. Dense and elegantly woven on the palate, concentrated mid-palate with small red berries, framed by a peppery, savoury acidity structure, fine tannins and a racy final. Wow, and this is the entry-level red!" Weinwisser

"Tightly wound at the core, with bright, creamy, fleshy black cherries and plums, layered with herbs and supported by gently enveloping tannins. The quality is evident and it is one of the most appealing Etna Rossos, offering immediate drinking pleasure thanks to its contrast between the freshness and depth of the dark fruit." Decanter

"This energetic red Etna has a well-filled nose of blood orange, violets, geranium, black pepper and assertive pomegranate. Full-bodied with a soft, supple attack, crisp acidity and velvety tannins. It has very good fruit concentration, a crisp finish and good balance. It is drinkable now, but will continue to develop and gain in integration and complexity." James Suckling

Top-class Pinot Bianco from the South Tyrolean Wine Road, more precisely from the exposed Sirmian hillside, where the Pinot Bianco finds its ideal location and an optimal microclimate. As a result, it is of remarkable quality every year. Clear and sparkling straw yellow in the glass, with an intense bouquet of light flowers, green apple, redcurrants and a hint of sage and nutmeg. Harmonious, powerful and persistent on the palate, with a full flavour typical of the grape variety and a beautiful melting, mineral finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant, light golden yellow colour. Intense on the nose with notes of meadow herbs, juicy vineyard peach, very subtle hints of white bread. Slightly creamy on the palate, lively, supportive acidity, very pleasantly persistent." Falstaff

"Matured for eight months in large oak barrels, the 2022 Pinot Bianco Sirmian has a bright colour and allows plenty of light to shine through. The wine is multi-layered and rich in stone fruit, quince and pear. You get a very nice ensemble with ripe fruit tones, herbal notes on the finish and a pinch of cinnamon spice. This is the 50th vintage." Wine Advocate

"A minerally pinot blanc with a fairly smoky character. The nose shows restrained Williams pears, apple juice and assertive salt-and-pepper minerality. Smooth and soft attack with weight and concentration, a medium body and toasted flavors with classy depth and length. Juicy finish." James Suckling

"Exciting flavours of grapefruit, freshly cut grass and flowers with a hint of pepper that hugs the lively acidity. Full-bodied and viscous with a luscious lemon liquid that percolates towards the end. Superb!" Decanter

The grapes for this fine Valpolicella come from limestone marl soils in the terraced vineyards of the Novare winery. Similar to the Amarone method, the grapes undergo a second fermentation on the sweetish skins of dried grapes in March after the harvest. Deep ruby red in colour, with warm spicy notes, cherry, black pepper and hints of chocolate on the palate. Animating in the glass with intense fruity flavours, wonderfully soft tannin structure and beautiful persistence. This multi-layered, luxurious wine has nothing to hide behind its big brother! SUPERIORE.DE

"Wild strawberry and cherry fruit is ripe and bright in this elegant red, with a tang of pomegranate seed and tangerine peel. Light on its feet and fresh, with light, chewy tannins showing on the lingering finish of aromatic mineral, spice and Mediterranean macchia notes." Wine Spectator

"If I were forced to choose a series of wines that could lead the anachronistic Ripasso category into a better future, this would be one of the few. A medium-bodied, lean expression with just enough fruit in the bones. Think strawberries, lilacs, Asian plums, cloves and a hint of liquorice. A noble, almost alpine bitterness lifts the finish. Brilliant." James Suckling

Here comes Varvàra, the convincing "second wine" from the Bolgheri shooting star, named in honour of BaroneVarvàra Wrangel. A wine in the style of the house: a rich, bright ruby colour with a garnet rim, a sophisticated bouquet with a finely pronounced ripe berry nose and beautiful herbal aromas. Warm on the palate, polished, tightly woven and of great elegance and refinement. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, bright ruby red colour. Pronounced nose of juicy blackberries, cigar box, slightly animal and vegetal notes on the finish. Rich fruit sweetness on the palate with great presence, firm tannins, very juicy and recurring on the finish." Falstaff

"The 2022 Bolgheri Rosso Varvàra reveals a smart and easy-drinking style with tight aromas of dark fruit and blackcurrant. It remains linear and direct, including the mouthfeel, finishing with medium build and good freshness." Wine Advocate

"The flavours of raspberries and cherries with thyme and mint are beguiling and merge into a medium body with a beautiful depth and purity of fruit and long, refined tannins. Very polished." James Suckling

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

Antonio Bragato, born in Germany but with an absolute Friulian identity, joined forces 20 years ago with Gianni Maccari, who was cellar master at Livio Felluga for many years and founded his own winery Ronco della Rocca at the beginning of the millennium. Maccari, who has a degree in agronomy and Oenologist, is considered one of the best-trained viticultural experts in Friuli. The profound knowledge of his own 12 hectares of vineyards as well as the leased plots and the radical precision in the execution of every operation characterise the clear style and the reliable quality of the wines that Antonio Bragato creates there together with him.

From the 2019 vintage, Antonio Bragato's wine experiment enters a new era. Since then, the team has relied on an even more rigorous selection of the oldest vines from the coolest and best sites. The results of the "New Edition" can truly be seen and tasted. They are even more radical in complexity and finesse. We are pleased to be able to offer our customers the smallest editions of these wines, which confirm the many years of work and experience of the two quality fanatics!

The vines from which the Sauvignon Bianco grapes for this delicious wine come are over 30 years old. In the open-hearted bouquet, initially elderflower, white peach, cassis, menthol and gooseberry, then in the background a cool, mineral-smoky note. On the nose, it is taut, precise, dense and juicy to the point, with a cool, very elegant drinking flow as it progresses. The overall experience is flanked by a well-portioned acidity and carried on and on. In the long, full-bodied final, a wonderful aroma and a delicate melting. Beguiling and highly convincing! SUPERIORE.DE

"A floral, intense, slightly spicy aroma, a hint of paprika, but also yellow fruit and wax. In the mouth, a smoothly grounded wine with a slightly phenolic extract filling and a firm acid structure is revealed. The wine has freshness and tension with good density and medium length, it seems made for table use." Falstaff

"This ripe and concentrated Sauvignon blanc is so elegant and finely tuned that it draws you inexorably under its spell. With its aromas of cassis and grapefruit peel and a hint of flint, it is reminiscent of the Loire. Mouth-filling, but so graceful and precise until the long finish with wet stones." James Suckling

The elegant blend of Cabernet Franc, Syrah and Merlot surprises with its aroma full of purity and intensely aromatic fruit flavour. Elegance and finesse trump muscle in Turpino, a wine that is always light on its feet. Fermentation in wooden barrels and ageing in barriques lend the spicy, balsamic notes of the grape blend a softness, a fine frame and a beguilingly long finish on the palate. With its tangy acidity balancing the ripe fruit, Turpino manages to be generous and restrained at the same time, making it a great accompaniment to Mediterranean meat dishes. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, dark ruby red colour. Captivating nose with aromas of black cherry, tobacco and ebony, also some iodine. On the palate, with a good length, young but fine tannins, lots of chocolate, still needs time, lots of potential." Falstaff

"Infused with plum, cherry and blackberry fruit, this well-balanced red wine is soft in texture. Hints of Mediterranean scrub, iron, earth and tobacco complete the flavour profile. The finish is fresh and long." Wine Spectator

"Lots of black liquorice and aniseed with blackberries and blueberries. Medium-bodied with very refined and polished tannins that run the length of the wine. Crisp, firm and juicy. A blend of Cabernet Franc, Syrah and Merlot. Needs time to mellow, but is very nice." James Suckling

"The Turpino 2020, which I tasted from the barrel last year, has developed wonderfully. The 2020 is rich, multi-layered and expansive and captivates from the very first sip. The blend of Syrah, Cabernet Franc and Merlot is very well done. The Syrah contains some whole bunches (50%), another good choice that works very well. All the elements are very harmonious. This is another fabulous wine from Querciabella." Vinous

Poggio Valente comes from a single vineyard of the same name at an altitude of around 300 metres. Opulent floral and small-fruited Sangiovese nose with optimally nuanced hints of tobacco, cedar and mint. Precise on the palate with plenty of pressure and power, then towards the end the furious resolution of all the well-dosed components in a fine, silky texture and an unforgettable, long final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Wonderfully clear red-fruity bouquet with cherries, wild berries and wonderful floral (lavender, roses) and spicy notes. Still very delicate, but juicy and elegant as well as precisely woven with a lively style, lives from the red berry fruit, the fine tannin riff and the wonderfully ethereal freshness with wonderful liquorice notes on the final." Weinwisser

"Brilliant, medium ruby colour with reflections. Initially delicate and subtle on the nose, with a little oxygen the wine opens up with aromas of black cherries and cedar wood. Elegant fruity sweetness on the palate, with fine tannins and a beautiful tension to the final." Falstaff

"Pure Sangiovese from the coast, also animating in this vintage: notes of forest fruits, blackberries, pepper and violets in the multi-faceted bouquet; precise construction with perfectly integrated, well-built tannins and vivid acidity, combining polish and length." Vinum

"The 2021 is ripe and silky, showing an intensity of soft, creamy red fruits with a lovely mineral note. Pure, balanced and precise, it is not quite as vertical as some of its predecessors, but instead has an appealing roundness." Decanter

"Ripe flavours of plum, black cherry and blackberry accentuate this dense red wine, whose lively structure conveys an energetic feel. Notes of earth, iron, eucalyptus and spice add complexity on the finish, with an aftertaste of fruit, wild undergrowth and spice." Wine Spectator

"This pure Sangiovese wine is celebrating its 25th anniversary. I was told that it is made according to a Burgundian model. The Fattoria le Pupille 2021 Poggio Valente offers good fruit concentration, freshness and an open character. It has a lot of character of red fruits, iris, blue flowers and earth, and the tannins are present, albeit powdery." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 Poggio Valente is fabulous. I can’t remember tasting a Poggio Valente with this much finesse. Rose petal, spice and red cherry fruit open in an effusive bouquet that is immediately appealing. Silky, medium in body and gracious, with finesse to burn, the 2021 shows what is possible within the appellation. I love its total class." Vinous

"Aromas of cherries, chocolate and walnuts. Some undertones of lavender and rose petals. Medium-bodied, with superfine tannins and notes of chocolate and vanilla. Give it time to open up." James Suckling

Aria di Caiarossa is a blend of Merlot, Syrah, Alicante, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon - in decreasing order. At this young stage, you can taste the purity of the primary flavours with wild cherry and raspberry, underpinned by dark spice and a hint of crushed mineral. These elegant mineral notes can be found throughout the Caiarossa portfolio. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, almost impenetrable ruby red colour with slightly brightening edges. Ripe wild berries and rich plums on the nose, with hints of dark chocolate and wet leather on the finish. Full-bodied on the palate, with fine tannins, juicy and a long-lasting final." Falstaff

"Although fruity, with flavours of blackcurrant and blackberry, this red wine has a certain weight. It finds a nice balance, with an earthy note and a slight tactile feel of tannins on the finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2020 Aria di Caiarossa is very generous and rich with full-bodied flavours of black fruits, sweet spices and cinnamon. The oak needs another year or two to integrate. Black fruits are the main protagonists, but baking chocolate and a hint of crushed limestone play a supporting role." Wine Advocate

"The Aria di Caiarossa 2020 is dark, fleshy and very expressive. Black cherry, mocha, new leather, liquorice, spices and lavender are beautifully enhanced. Resonant and wonderfully deep, the Aria 2020 is showing very well today. Silky tannins round off the whole in style." Vinous

"This fascinating blend of Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Grenache has a real minerality. It exudes light balsamic notes with hints of cardamom and chocolate. Juicy and succulent, with flavours of dark cherries and plums, silky tannins and a juicy background. It comes from the estate's youngest vineyards, planted at an altitude of 200-350 metres." Decanter

"The nose offers a captivating mix of nuanced fruit flavours, from Bing cherries to rhubarb and pomegranate, and then a fresh herbal note, with mint and fennel. On the palate, the tannins lead to dark fruits that finally explode in a powerful, peppery finish. A reminder that Bolgheri is not the only part of Maremma worth plundering, especially in this price range." Wine Enthusiast

"It is fresh and crisp with notes of red and dark berries as well as spices and citrus peel. Medium to full-bodied. It is polished and velvety, with balanced acidity and a polished finish." James Suckling

Caparzo is one of two estates in Montalcino (the other is Altesino, by the way) owned by the extremely charming Elisabetta Gnudi Angelini.

Caparzo's Brunello di Montalcino is a very classic interpretation that delivers the perfect stuff without any distracting frills. The nose is fruity and warm at the same time: aromas of strawberries, cherries and hibiscus flirt with notes of dark chocolate, orange peel and stones bathing in the sun. On the palate, a wave of cranberry brings an astringency that refreshes a lingering stony note before the chocolate returns on the finish. The firm, imposing tannins creep up slowly, adding depth without weighing the wine down. Great value! SUPERIORE.DE

"Fruity bouquet, dark cherries, but also cassis and blue berries. Behind this, however, very clear notes of cherry, blackberries and marvellous floral hints. Polished and pleasing on the palate, round, with fine, round tannins, sweet berries." Weinwisser

"Ruby red with brightening edges. Intense nose of ripe cherry, some leather and beeswax, reminiscent of blood orange on the final. Clear fruit again on the palate, fine woody spice, with a certain pressure and pithy tannins." Falstaff

"The 2019 captures its overtly fragrant disposition. Fennel, mint and aniseed linger on the palate. Plush and soft texture with a predominant blackcurrant flavour. The fine tannins harmonise with the zesty acidity. An uncomplicated and attractive wine overall." Decanter

"Rich and supple, with aromas and flavours of cherry, blackberry, graphite and tobacco. The dense, dusty tannins are evident in the long, lively finish, in which a slight astringency lingers." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino opens slowly in the glass, but it's worth the wait as a dusty mix of dried flowers, cedar shavings, wild strawberries and spice unfolds over time. It is silky and enveloping with fresh acidity and pretty wild berries that gain sweetness over the palate. The finish is long and colourful but still lively and tangy, leaving a layer of fine tannins and liquorice notes that resonate under a hint of violet blossom. The 2019 is a beautiful interpretation of the fruit of northern Montalcino." Vinous

"The Caparzo 2019 Brunello di Montalcino offers vibrant flavours of cherry-cola, wild berries and dried cranberries, which are very much in evidence on the nose. The wine's dimension and scope are impressive, especially in terms of mouthfeel. What works best in my opinion, however, is the wine's balanced and much-needed freshness. You get a great quality." Wine Advocate

"Quite pure fruit with flavours of black cherries, black berries and light chocolate. The palate is full and focused with very polished tannins and a long, long finish." James Suckling

Livio Felluga's new crus are the result of massalselection. Selected vines in particularly favourable locations are reproduced in order to renew vineyards with particularly high-quality vines and further improve the quality of individual varietal wines.

Named after the Curubella vineyard, this Pinot Grigio expresses the unique and very expressive terroir in a very special way. Golden yellow with copper-coloured reflections, the result of a long maceration period. Autumnal notes of medlar, jasmine and white pepper on the nose, rounded off with elderberry, marjoram, melon and orange zest. Powerful and expressive on the firm palate with candied fruit, spice and floral elements. Traces of acacia honey and biscuits on the long finish. Complex and deep with a very clear personality, freshness and beautiful minerality. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Livio Felluga 2020 Friuli Colli Orientali Pinot Grigio Curubella is a fascinating wine that reveals a slightly pink or copperish hue (called "ramato" in Italian) that comes thanks to some minimal skin contact. That pretty intensity translates to both the bouquet and the mouthfeel of this special wine that is aged in vessels made with a composite of cement known as cocciopesto. Sweet peach, grapefruit and spicy saffron emerge, and the wine is broad and even a touch sweet. It also offers drying mineral tones in contrast." Wine Advocate

"Flavoured with candied mandarins and peach peel as well as dried herbs and a hint of cream. Medium to full-bodied. On the palate, it is very full-bodied and long-lasting and very balanced. It is polished and even with a balanced acidity and a somewhat firm, phenolic backbone. Exciting and nervous, but also very elegant." James Suckling