Decanter

Luca de Marchi's showpiece is the Rosso of the same name from the small DOC Lessona. Fresh garnet red and a rather restrained-cool aroma spectrum open with a lot of understatement the very powerful and spicy taste experience at the first sip, which, however, never seems muscular or fleshy, but expands with constant, medium pressure and a cornucopia of ripe fruit in the mouth. Here and also in the finish, the Lessona-style Nebbiolo comes to full fruition - unlike Barolo or Barbaresco with more restraint and instead a depth that only reveals itself after some time. Gripping and impressive - definitely aerate! SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2015 offers wonderfully fragrant rosehip, wet pine and rooibos with a hint of orange, then floral nuances. The lively palate is driven by straightforward acidity, while pomegranate flavours dissolve into silky, fine-grained tannins, finishing with a bracing, saline finish." Decanter

The Vigna del Sorbo vineyard is located directly in front of the winery. The south-west facing vineyard with Galestro soils covers 8 hectares at an altitude of 450 metres. The Riserva was first produced in 1985 and has been labelled Gran Selezione since the 2010 vintage.

Dark ruby red with light red highlights. Deep and initially unfathomable on the nose. But any spirit of discovery will be enchanted when it opens slowly and very balanced with red cherries, redcurrants, earth, sage and liquorice, revealing more facets with each passing minute. Finally, the mouthfeel shows a similar degree of extreme flavour balance with very fine but still young tannins. This medium-bodied structure, coupled with the wine's natural acidity, is an important guarantee of its great longevity. Our clear conclusion: there is not only a lot to discover here, but also to admire. Chapeau! SUPERIORE.DE

"Promising aromas of raspberries and flowers, with subtle notes of pepper; pithy on the palate, perfectly integrated acidity, lots of juice, power, plump tannins, character and a wonderful spicy final on notes of ripe cherries and sandalwood." Vinum

"Dark ruby red colour with a delicately brightening rim. On the nose, pronounced spicy aromas of ripe wild berries, rich Amarena cherries and clear pepper spice, with a leathery aftertaste. Tight-knit and pithy on the palate, spreads out with grip, very juicy, with a subtle salty undertone, powerful and long with plenty of character, still needs some bottle ageing." Falstaff

"Medium to deep ruby red colour. Spicy, mineral, elegant and a little reserved on the nose. Deep, juicy cherry fruit, supported by the right dose of chewy tannins. Very long. Concentrated, lively and relaxed at the same time." Jancis Robinson

"This wine is elegant, with floral, cherry, raspberry and mineral flavours. A hint of earth shines through, while the finish is graceful." Wine Spectator

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo 2019 is a powerful, virile wine with enormous depth and equally impressive tannins. An explosion of dark fruits, herbs, chocolate, menthol and spices flows from the glass. Generous tannins and a hint of rusticity suggest that the 2019 will not be one of the finest Sorbos, but it is a good effort for this year." Vinous

"Vigna del Sorbo lies at an altitude of 400 metres and has the classic Galestro soil of Chianti Classico. The warm, south-west facing vineyard typically produces a powerful, intense wine that requires ageing. The 2019 shows all the wild, penetrating characteristics of this site, but it quickly comes into harmony and reveals its balance and precision. The wood-accentuated notes of smoke and vanilla give way to pressed violets, rosemary and liquorice. Luscious red cherry and dark plum flesh is enveloped by long, layered, chalky tannins. The palate reveals an energetic bar of unwavering acidity that gives the wine a linear feel. Fennel and crushed stone linger on the finish." Decanter

"Usually excellent Sangiovese in purity of great elegance from Fontodi, with the step ahead of a great vintage. Nose of freshness, marasche, with officinal hints of citron thyme, mouth with a nice acidic shoulder, salty tannins, crispiness and incisiveness. Persistent." Luca Gardini

"This iconic wine has a whole new energy as it is now part of an exciting range of potential Gran Selezione wines being made at Fontodi. Two new additions to the portfolio (Pastrolo from cool Lamole and Terrazze San Leonlino from Panzano) help to give greater context to the organic 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo. This wine naturally benefits from many years of experience and the identity of Vigna del Sorbo is well established. However, soil connoisseurs will be delighted to compare the Vigna del Sorbo from slate-rich Galestro soils with the calcareous alternative from Terrazze San Leonlino. I tend to favour the Vigna del Sorbo because I particularly appreciate the mineral notes of pencil and iron ore that I find so appealing. These dusty notes are rounded off by sweet cherry fruit, plum and spices. Rising alcohol levels can be a problem in sun-drenched Panzano, and the wine team lets the vines grow higher in summer to provide shade and takes other active measures to combat this problem." Wine Advocate

Castello Romitorio's 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is a classic expression of the 5-star vintage in Montalcino (consortium rating), showing plenty of ripe fruit, minerality, herbal nuances and varietal purity. This wine hits the sweet spot between elegance and power, which is not easy to achieve. It offers a wide range of Sangiovese flavours with wild cherry, forest floor, crushed clove and medicinal herbs, but it also shows a plump density and a velvety texture. Filippo Chia and his team have created a highly attractive Brunello for medium to long drinking. SUPERIORE.DE

"Densely spicy, compact bouquet with dark cherry, tart fruit and spice on the palate; compact, powerful style with a racy finish, very classic, noticeable tannin and grip, beautiful freshness and spice on the final." Weinwisser

"Dark, bright ruby red colour. Ripe cherry, milk chocolate and cold smoke on the nose, roasted almonds and mint on the finish, multi-layered. Lively entry on the palate, precise acidity and fresh fruit, taut and juicy, fine-grained tannins, with grip, persistent and balanced on the finish, with elegant iron tones." Falstaff

"Brilliant ruby red colour. Somewhat spicy and still quite dense on the nose. Compact cherry fruit on the palate with plenty of depth. Adequate concentration with plenty of supple acidity and a core of gravelly tannins. Still needs some time, but is very promising. Beautiful label." Jancis Robinson

"Polished and refined wine with flavours of wild strawberries, dark cherries and violets, rich and full-bodied with balanced, soft acidity. Firm and fine-grained tannins. Energetic. Better after 2027." James Suckling

"The charming 2019 from Romitorio emphasises the juiciness of Sangiovese. It delights with aromas of sweet, damp earth, sage and cocoa. Spacious and airy on the palate, where juicy, citrus-like acidity drives flavours of pomegranate and orange. Elegantly framed by fine, slender tannins. A woody intensity emerges on the finish. A pleasure even at this youthful stage." Decanter

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino opens with dried cassis and cranberry, and there is a hint of something floral and fragile, like crushed red rose petals or potpourri. However, the wine also shows a growing momentum, especially as it opens up in the glass and you start to recognise dark spices, cloves, bay leaf and thyme. There's a hint of sweetness in the mid-palate, even some dried raspberry, which makes the wine more approachable overall." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is seductively dark and spicy, exuding an earthy blend of crushed stones, savoury herbs, spiced blood oranges and dried cherries in the glass. The palate is spoilt by its soft texture and the deep fruit of wild berries. Lively acidity and mineral tones give it lift, but also depth. The 2019 finishes dramatically long and structured, youthfully withdrawing into itself as orange and rosy floral flavours linger. The house style comes into its own here, emphasised by the radiant fruit of the 2019 vintage." Vinous

"The result of thirty years of research and selection of the most suitable parcels is a compact Brunello with notes of Marasca on the nose, with a hint of wild mint and a touch of soya. In the mouth it is salty and taut, the tannins are perfectly integrated into the body and the finish is long and persistent." Luca Gardini

"Notable for its pure cherry and kirsch aromas and flavors, this red is also stylish and graceful. Rose, wild thyme and stony mineral elements come into play as this develops on the palate. Beautifully integrated, fresh and firm, this glides to a long, resonant aftertaste." Wine Spectator

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. Smoky notes, black tea, yellow-spicy fruit. On the palate it flows silky smooth, velvety and spicy, lingers for a long time, great! SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling straw yellow with clear green nuances. Impressive nose with fragrant notes of fresh rose petals, lots of lychee and mango, some cloves in the background. Round and supple in the attack and on the palate, intense spicy notes, lays over the tongue like a carpet, also shows good freshness and juiciness, very long finish." Falstaff

"An opera house full of expanse, roses and drama. Satin and cardamom. Salt and baklava. Bay leaf and Turkish delight. No rough edges, no bite - like a dance of ribbons. Rippling, gyrating, swirling wonders that flow through the mouth. Astonishing tenderness, despite the tiny fiery sharpness of the ginger biscuit. Still youthfully tingling, but already in all its splendour. Jancis Robinson

"This creamy white wine smells of jasmine and lime blossom, is light and fresh, with lively acidity that frames flavours of baked peach, lemon oil, tangerine peel and fresh thyme." Wine Spectator

"Elegant flavours of lychee, white peach, ginger and roses, but it remains restrained and multi-layered. This is not a brash Gewürztraminer, packed with flavours that make you feel a bit too much. On the contrary, it's quite interwoven and refined, with a natural, medium-bodied acidity that adds enough freshness to the round, flavourful palate. Medium to full-bodied, supple and generous with subtle glycerine sweetness and phenolic notes on the finish. Flavours of lychee and orange blossom on the finish." James Suckling

"Nussbaumer is the result of around 20 different vinifications of Gewurztraminer, each with a different level of residual sugar. It spends 11 months on its lees in stainless steel tanks before bottling, lending freshness and texture to the intensity of rose petal, tropical fruit, soft pear, mango and white flowers. Incredibly fresh and long, this is benchmark stuff." Decanter

Laura Brunelli's Brunello is an outstanding reflection of the appellation every year. A floral bouquet, the purest expression of cherry and strawberry imaginable, hints of mint, sage and cedar dust - all are found in its stunning bouquet. The youthful density of the ripe primary fruit contrasts with salty minerality and lively acidity, leaving a cascading and crisp impression on the palate. SUPERIORE.DE

"Scents of wild strawberries and violets; well balanced texture, the tannins tight, elegant course, pithy fresh finish." Vinum

"Shiny medium ruby red. Spicy, mineral nose with fragrant fruit but not really opening up yet. Elegant, long flavours of raspberry and fruit with plenty of fresh acidity and grippy, gravelly tannins. Still youthful and will take some time to come together." Jancis Robinson

"Enticing nose of rosemary, wild cherries, lemon peel, chocolate strawberries and pralines. It is medium-bodied with a bright, fruit-driven palate framed by fine-grained tannins. All in balance. Drinkable from 2023." James Suckling

"The dark, seductive Brunello di Montalcino 2018 rumbles from the glass with a blend of crushed plums and black cherries, complemented by nuances of grated sage. It is soft and deep, engulfing the palate with ripe wild berries and spices, underlined by a spicy herbaceous steak. A web of fine tannins creates a truly classic impression, while mentholated herbs and hints of wild strawberries keep popping up. This youthfully masked beauty will need minimal ageing to be at its best." Vinous

"As with the 2017 vintage, Laura Brunelli will not be releasing a Riserva. Instead, the Olmo vineyard, which typically forms the backbone of the Riserva, is an important component in this Annata Brunello, making a beautiful and complete wine. Mint, lavender and fennel lead on the nose, while sweet, juicy persimmon and crisp pomegranate provide the backdrop on the palate, and the chalky tannins are quite insidious in their grip. On the surface it's approachable, but its substance, intrigue and backbone suggest more to come." Decanter

"This red wine with its cherry and raspberry aromas also offers flavours of eucalyptus, minerals, earth and almonds. Lively and balanced, with an intense, delicious finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino captures the essence and spirit of the Sangiovese grape very well, a grape that in the right hands delivers endlessly nuanced and complex results. This wine reveals wild cherry, blue violet, blood orange, rusty nail and sweet earth. Hints of scorched earth or baked clay highlight the warmest months in this growing cycle. The result is balanced and fresh. I have mentioned alcohol levels throughout this review, and although the 14% registered here is still quite high, it is below the average of its peers. This is a very well done job." Wine Advocate

Chianti Classico by Giovanni Manetti offers a profound, densely woven and still very youthful bouquet of dark and red berries and fine spicy notes. The dry, cherry flavour with long-lasting impressions, well-extracted tannins and the acidity typical of Sangiovese show a clearly recognisable terroir character. Very clear, straightforward, long, always fresh and juicy, with excellent strength and balance. SUPERIORE.DE

"A classic, on the palate it is polished, dense, velvety, with harmonious acidity and spicy again. All in all, the development remains to be seen." Weinwisser

"Youthful ruby red colour. Subtle but seductive bouquet of sweet red fruits with meaty notes and a hint of laurel. Lots of juice on the palate and plenty of grainy but ripe tannins, which harmonise perfectly with the juicy fruit." Jancis Robinson

"Brilliant, medium ruby red colour. Elegant on the nose with notes of coffee, cherry, underlaid with nuances of forest floor. Linear on the palate, with invigorating acidity and a very fine tannin structure, harmonious through to the exceptionally long finish." Falstaff

"The Fontodi 2020 Chianti Classico, a certified organic wine, shows dark fruits and blackberries with earthy notes of gravel, reflecting the slate soils in this area of the appellation." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 version has all the ripe dark fruit and assertive tannins that are so well balanced. Grilled meat, baked earth and thyme flirt with black plum. The youthful juiciness has the energy to carry this wine over the next eight or more years. It finishes with its characteristic bitter liquorice note." Decanter

"The Chianti Classico 2020 offers remarkable tension to balance the natural richness that is so typical of this wine. There is plenty of Panzano intensity, but less opulence than has been the norm in the past. The switch to a larger oak format and bottling four months earlier contribute to this impression. Dark red cherry, leather, spices, rose petals, dried herbs and wild flowers adorn this nuanced Chianti Classico. It will be interesting to see in which direction this bottling develops. I wouldn't open it too young." Vinous

"Rich and velvety, with flavours of black cherries, blackberries, violets and minerals. The wine is driven by lively acidity and supported by well-integrated tannins. Excellent balance and length." Wine Spectator

"Subtle flavours of sliced strawberries and cherries with some orange zest follow through to a medium body with juicy tannins and a bright and tangy finish. This wine has wonderful energy. So good now." James Suckling

Intense, bright ruby red colour. Very clear aroma of ripe cherries, cassis, elderberries and plums, with sandalwood, cloves and white pepper in the background. Great fruit on the palate, lots of grippy tannins, complex, long and multi-layered. An exciting, still quite young wine with enormous potential for many, many years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense ruby red with violet. Pleasant vegetal and fruity nose with woody and floral notes of roses and geraniums as well as darker roasted and tobacco notes. Firm, broad and full-bodied on the palate. Spicy and savoury tannins, great drinking pleasure." Falstaff

"Tobacco leaf and freshly cut cigar on the nose. Black pepper to its white. Dark cherries, wild thyme, cranberries in cherry syrup, black olives, Darjeeling tea leaves and cumin, interwoven with sensual, deeply silky tannins. Sabrina Tedeschi says that she keeps finding minty notes in this wine, and I can understand what she means. Beautiful spirals of blood-orange acidity that run up and down the wine. Long, persistent and, like all Tedeschi wines, exquisitely balanced - there is something truly regal about this wine." Jancis Robinson

"This rich red evokes the traditional style of Amarone with its dark focus and notes of stemmy herbs, iron and fresh earth, but the juicy core of black plum and reduced cherry flavours, supple, chalky tannins and overall integration and balance show the precision and pleasure of a modern approach. Long, beautiful finish." Wine Spectator

"The lowest Amarone parcel, on calcareous subsoil. A 'big boy', as the winery calls him. Expansive in the mouth, with a thick tannic spindle spooling up porcini mushrooms, terracotta, cloves, thyme, aniseed and polished leather. A hint of balsamic on the long and influential finish. This is a magnificent wine with power and precision." James Suckling

"The Tedeschi family has vinified the Monte Olmi vineyard separately and there is no wonder why. The wine greets you with a combination of ripe dark plums, black cherries and an almost framboise note. The rich wine is firm and gripping, with the primary flavors mirroring the nose. The wine ends with a change of pace—an herbal and rocky minerality." Wine Enthusiast

"The Amarone della Valpolicella Riserva Monte Olmi 2016 has a woody character that blends perfectly with the aromas of macerated plums, sage, cedar shavings and cocoa. The palate is enveloped in an opulent, silky texture, while a core of juicy acidity lends an attractive sweetness to the tart wild berries and exotic spices. The 2016 finishes with fine tannins and lingering concentration, with raspberry and clove nuances slowly fading away. It is a beauty, but it needs further ageing to show its best side." Vinous

"The Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva Capitel Monte Olmi 2016 is one of the top wines in the Tedeschi portfolio and clearly raises the intensity threshold in terms of fruit weight, power and alcohol. Dark fruit and plums give way to candied fruit and cherry liqueur. The tannins are present but so skilfully integrated that they are neither bitter nor astringent. In fact, the mouthfeel is probably the best and most unique feature of this wine." Wine Advocate

"Tedeschi's historic Amarone, which comes from 2.5 hectares of vineyards in Pedemonte di Valpolicella in the Classico area. The higher clay content compared to the chalky soils of the Maternigo estate emphasises its great, dense and powerful character. Fragrant aromas of potpourri contrast with hints of meat broth and rich black fruit. Concentrated and focused, the red and black fruit flavours combine with balsamic freshness and a very good acidity that lightens the monolithic weight. On the finish, nuances of violets and red fruits combine with chocolate, coffee and spices, carried by a chewing gum-like acidity. Wow!" Decanter

Anniversary edition: Top-class Pinot Bianco from the South Tyrolean Wine Route, more precisely from the exposed Sirmian vineyard, where the Pinot Bianco finds its ideal location and an optimal microclimate. Every year it is of remarkable quality. 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

"The Pinot Bianco Sirmian 2021 has a bouquet of sweet floral scents, freshly cut green apples and ginger. On the palate, it is round and soothing, with a lively acidity and lime nuances that enliven the ripe fruit of the orchard. The 2021 is wonderfully fresh and balanced, finishing with commendable length and subtle spice." Vinous

"A fresh, mineral-driven white, with a pleasing tension and fine knit to the flavors of patisserie apple, pear and blanched almond. Offers accents of honeycomb, chamomile, lemon peel and ground ginger on the long and creamy finish." Wine Spectator

"Bright, intense straw yellow colour. Opens on the nose with ripe apple and melon, underpinned by spicy notes of meadow herbs and hay. Filling in the mouth, with beautiful pressure on the palate, rich fruit through to the long finish." Falstaff

"It's chewy with dried apple and mango and some lemon zest. Also dried peaches. Full-bodied with multi-layered fruit and fresh acidity. Also some yoghurt character." James Suckling

"This bottle bears a special 50th anniversary label, making it one of the oldest representatives of this grape variety in the region. The Nals Margreid 2021 Alto Adige Pinot Bianco Sirmian draws its fruit from over 15 hectares of high-altitude vineyards, where this grape variety shows its best results. A beautiful expression with a mouthful that is so precise and sharp that the wine tastes almost spicy. Grapefruit, Granny Smith apple and crisp pear are offset by a light spiciness and saffron. There's also a hint of white peppercorn." Wine Advocate

"Creamy and smooth with plenty of lemon zest, nutty baked apple, ripe apricot and saffron, emphasised by the emerging strong minerality and focused saline finish." Decanter

"One of the clearest Pinot Blancs in Alto Adige, flavoured with the crisp craftsmanship that is at home in Nalles. Vineyards at the foot of the winery, 7 months in barrels and steel tanks, cedar peel and hawthorn on the nose. Very taut, lively, spicy and with an excellent finish on the palate." Luca Gardini

Pianrosso comes from a south-west facing vineyard in the Castelnuovo dell'Abate subzone at an altitude of around 300 metres with mainly Galestro soils. It is dark, rich and deeply seductive, showing ripe black fruit enveloped in hints of gravel, sage and exotic spices. Although it has a velvety and almost creamy texture, it finds harmony through juicy acids and a blend of ripe black cherries and plums. Notes of liquorice and baker's chocolate balance the salty minerality and fine-grained tannins of the Pianrosso in a long and dramatic final. For a wine with such power, this is a beautiful symmetry. Definitely put it away for a few more years. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Cru is a selection of the best vines. Dark, spicy bouquet, extremely complex and multi-faceted, beguiling with fresh, ethereal, smoky and herbaceous notes reminiscent of Mediterranean herbs, with mineral, salty hints and floral nuances (rose petals, violet blossom), backed by redcurrant. Dense and powerful on the palate with a core of fresh, juicy fruit, very cleverly arranged, skilfully framed by fine, polished, almost sweetish tannins that linger on forever, very elegant, with dark, ethereal-balsamic spicy notes on the long final." Weinwisser

"Sparkling ruby colour with a bright garnet rim. Finely drawn, appealing nose with clear notes of rosehip, crisp cherries, some blood orange and clove. Opens on the palate with pithy, gripping tannins, flows calmly, with a lovely sweet mellowness on the finish, very good tension, savoury and long." Falstaff

"Sweet berries and cherries on the nose, along with fresh violet and lilac notes. Full-bodied with juicy tannins and a spicy finish that opens up on the palate. Lots of ripe cherry flavour. Also tar. A rich and multi-layered Pianrosso. One of the bigger, riper wines of the vintage." James Suckling

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Pianrosso tempts the imagination with a darkly alluring bouquet that keeps the taster at the edge of the glass as a cooling whiff of smoke gives way to dried flowers, cedar and exotic spice. It flows across the palate with textures of pure silk, finessed and graceful, with depths of intense red and black fruits that slowly saturate. The 2019 turns inward upon itself through the finish, tannic and long with notes of licorice and cacao bean. This is a serious rendition of Pianrosso that will require patience to enjoy fully. That said, it’s sure to be worth the wait." Vinous

"Pianrosso is a selection from the vineyard of the same name: 11 hectares in the lower south-east of Montalcino. The grapes were harvested between 11 September and 4 October 2019, which suggests a classic vintage. It shines with its earl grey tea aroma, combined with dark cherry, cinnamon, liquorice and a floral bouquet. The fruit character is very dark and precise; marvellous in this vintage. Full-bodied, dense and velvety with firm, long yet integrated acidity, it tapers off on the finish, but this is a sign of its elegance." Decanter

"The Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Pianrosso opens with a broad and all-encompassing bouquet of dried cherries or cherry pie with crust, plum cake and rose potpourri. There are obvious oak tones, but they fade into underbrush, grilled herbs and the generous texture of this wine. Even the 15% alcohol content disappears into the fleshy fruitiness of the wine. Certainly this is a wine that needs more bottle age to develop the suppleness and beautiful freshness of such an important Sangiovese." Wine Advocate

"A cornerstone of the typology, we are in the south-east region of the denomination, a stone's throw from Castelnuovo dell'Abate. Rich nose, notes of red mulberries, then rosemary and hints of Peranzana olives. The flavour is spicy, with a return of red mulberry and iodised nuances." Luca Gardini

As every year, the grapes for Riccardo Campinoti's "white label" come from the scattered vineyards of Le Ragnaie, making the wine a precise and classic snapshot of the diverse Montalcino area and the wonderful 2019 vintage: violets and Mediterranean scrub meet wild strawberries, stones and a fascinating earthiness. It also epitomises the vibrancy of Sangiovese, which initially appears medium-bodied and then gains strength as firm, dusty tannins wrap themselves around a tangy core. The finish is energetic and uplifting - an elegantly moulded Brunello with impeccable symmetry and purity of fruit. As with the estate's single-vineyard bottlings, fermentation is spontaneous, maceration lasts 45 to 50 days and ageing takes place in large Slavonian oak barrels. SUPERIORE.DE

"Almost medium ruby red colour. A lively, concentrated nose of fragrant red fruit. A real upgrade on the Rosso, more complex and with great depth without losing its elegance. Juicy, almost racy and pure on the finish with fine tannins that emphasise the fruit." Jancis Robinson

"The sum of the fruit from different plots in cooler and warmer regions reveals the characteristic tautness of Le Ragnaie. Delicately scented, the nose hints at game and then turns to brushwood, rose hips and alpine flowers. The core of cranberries and redcurrants is medium-bodied and firmly anchored. Bright acidity and firm, crisp tannins provide a solid framework." Decanter

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino opens slowly in the glass, dusty and floral, with a depth of dark red fruits and exotic spices. It is silky smooth with medium body and lively acidity driving the tart wild berries and mineral tones, while rosy florals race across the palate. It finishes with admirable length and concentration. Crisp tannins frame the experience without slowing down the momentum. The 2019 is a wonderful result of the vintage and the style of the house. Don't let it pass you by." Vinous

"The Brunello di Montalcino 2019 shows delicate aromas of blue flowers, redcurrants, cranberries and floral earth. It has all the basic components of a classic Sangiovese. The fruit comes from the estate's vineyards, which are located at an altitude of 200 to 600 metres above sea level, the highest point of the appellation. The palate is spoilt with baking spices and silky, almost glossy tannins. The mouthfeel is very fine. This is a very Burgundian Brunello." Wine Advocate

"This red features a core of cherry and strawberry fruit, along with leafy underbrush and rosemary accents. Sinewy tannins take over midpalate, vying for attention with the fruit on the lingering, mineral-tinged aftertaste, yet this is elegant and balanced overall." Wine Spectator

Sondraie, from which the wine takes its name, is a large plateau from Aurelia to Bellaria in the north of the appellation and one of the best sites for Cabernet in Bolgheri. The Oenologist Luca d'Attoma is considered one of the best interpreters of Cabernet Franc in Italy and his wines are always a clear buy. Bright violet colour. The nose is leafy, with dark chocolate and a characteristic aroma of coffee powder, plus blueberry, raspberry, black cherry and undergrowth. On the palate, melted cloves and cassis in perfect balance. Smooth and ripe, with a hint of chalk thanks to the oak tannins on the finish. Amazingly fresh and endlessly long, simply superb! SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense, full garnet ruby colour. Complex on the nose with aromas of tar, dark chocolate, compact oak and lots of dark fruit. Polished and elegant on the palate, precise in the fruit, striking freshness, with young but very fine-grained tannins, still needs some time, but with plenty of ageing potential." Falstaff

"Reveals powerful and firmly wrought tannins, setting the stage for blackberry, black currant, coffee, iron and a hint of dark chocolate. Suave and balanced, with a dusty, bitter cocoa finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Bolgheri Superiore Sondraia is a powerful, rather somber wine. In this tasting, the 2019 stands out for its more extracted style and stronger oak imprint, neither of which seem to allow the wine to show at its best. Dark red-toned fruit, spice, tobacco, espresso and torrefaction notes build in the glass. All that said, this is a very good wine." Vinous

"Aromas of fresh herbs such as parsley and nettles, blackcurrants. Pure and focused. Full-bodied with lovely polished tannins that are tailored and focused. Delicious finish. Nice balance to this already and delicious for a young wine." James Suckling

"A meaty, savory nose draws freshness from herbal and stony undertones, while a kick of salt and pepper provides pop. The palate turns sweeter, with black cherries and chocolate but maintains the salt and pepper backbone. The tannins are tautly wound around powerful acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"Despite increasing a lot in price due to demand, Sondraia is still one of the best buys in Bolgheri. This 2019 is extremely youthful, with estery notes on the nose enhanced by restrained but layered and concentrated bramble fruits, and menthol and chocolate in depth. The attack is fleshy then more tight than supple. Full bodied, with angular tannins and firm acidity." Decanter

"The Poggio al Tesoro 2019 Bolgheri Superiore Sondraia makes excellent use of oak aging, resulting in soft tannins, plush richness and attractive concentration. The wine is very well managed overall with plenty of black fruit balanced by spice and tobacco. Its important structure suggests a long aging future." Wine Advocate

Here is another outstanding 2019 Brunello from a winery that is still considered an insider tip given its small size and limited annual production. Medium, bright ruby red colour. Exotic aromas of minerals and citrus fruits, reminiscent of red cherries, blood oranges and Asian spices, with a floral nuance that gains strength with air. The palate is supple and expansive, with sweet flavours of red cherries and dark plums carried by a powerful acidity. Densely packed, at once fleshy and broad, but also lively and precise. On the strikingly long finish, it shows excellent power and cut, characterised by youthful, dusty tannins and a hint of candied violets. As is so often the case, this is one of the best Brunellos of the vintage and still completely under the radar of many Sangiovese lovers. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dense fruity bouquet, ripe red fruit, coffee. Juicy, creamy, dense, modern, intense, concentrated, creamy frame, warm final." Weinwisser

"The Brunello is made from the oldest vines, a single vineyard of one hectare planted in 1992. The warmth of south-east Montalcino is perceived in the aromas of Mediterranean shrubs and macerated cherries. A hint of nutmeg and iron gives the wine an added flavour. A full, shapely and enveloping Brunello that finds balance and lightness in its generous proportions. On the palate, it reveals a wonderful purity of black and redcurrants, and the compact, powdery tannins leave a clean finish. The final shows intense orange flavours." Decanter

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is simply stunning. It rises from the glass with a bouquet that combines minty herbs and hints of cocoa with sweet spices and blackberries. The palate is lapped by a texture of pure silk, introducing waves of polished red fruits and oranges, while rosy, floral notes build towards the finish. Although tannic and classically dry, the 2019 retains a lovely inner freshness, leaving a pleasant bitter tang and salty liquorice notes that slowly fade away. This is a fabulous result from Sesta di Sopra and an excellent representation of the Castelnuovo dell'Abate terroir." Vinous

"Subtle and refined on the nose with fresh flowers, sweet berries, orange peel and red cherries. Medium-bodied with ultra-fine tannins that run the length of the wine. Racy and focused with finesse and drive." James Suckling

Giuseppe Russo cultivates part of the 12-hectare San Lorenzo vineyard at an altitude of around 750 metres on the slopes of Mount Etna near Randazzo. The lava flows of recent decades have created a porous soil here, rich in volcanic rock and therefore providing excellent drainage.

Just 2,000 bottles are filled each year. The vines, which are over 80 years old, produce an extremely low yield, making the result all the more complex and multi-layered. Fine salinity, light-coloured stone fruit and a well-measured extract sweetness flow from the glass. A good structure on the palate, the acidity and noticeable minerality support the subtle flavours of white peach and grapefruit. The finish is smoky with a nice salty note. It is at its best at 12° and will be even better in a few years! SUPERIORE.DE

"Dusty white peach and orange peel scents are mirrored in the mouth, with some grapefruit, earth and wood tones. There's good intensity, and some ripe pineapple and floral notes emerge on the mid-palate before a fresh, lip-smacking salty finish. Delicious." Decanter

"An attractive wine with aromas of ripe citrus fruit, white flowers, stones and ash. Medium-bodied, multi-layered and complex, but at the same time lively and fresh. Juicy and exciting with a savoury, slightly phenolic and mineral finish." James Suckling

"The 2022 Etna Bianco San Lorenzo is shy in the glass and slowly awakens with a flavoursome blend of young peaches accompanied by grapefruit, rosemary and wet stone. The wine is very structured, silky and supple, with a depth of green apple and melon that soothes the senses. A saline note emerges on the finish, while the 2022 cleanses beautifully, leaving a mentholated freshness as the mango notes fade. The San Lorenzo is an absolute charmer and aims to please." Vinous

"With only a few vintages under his belt, Giuseppe Russo has created a beautiful top-class white wine from Etna. I tasted this sample about a month after bottling, and at this young stage the bouquet is very centred on citrus and salty minerals. But if you look beyond these two aromatic pillars, the wine reveals subtle layers of green apple, quince, pear and saffron. It shows a shy but compelling complexity." Wine Advocate

Named after the quartz speckles in the volcanic porphyry rock of Terlan, the most famous Sauvignon Bianco in Italy lives up to its name. Sparkling yellow-green in colour. Filigree, delicately scented with grapefruit, peach, honey and green papaya. Quartz is taut and precise, with a fleshy, creamy texture, great depth and a wonderful mineral-salty finish. Must have and must taste! SUPERIORE.DE

"Our Sauvignon selection, which has been given a truly characteristic name, is as filigree as the fine quartz crystals in Terlan's volcanic porphyry rock. The quartz is characterised by its fine texture and depth as well as a salty finish, which have now earned this fine white wine an international reputation." Rudi Kofler, Kellermeister Terlan

"Subtle grassy herbal notes lead to an expressive palate with lemon curd, guava and focussed mineral characters; refreshing and long." Decanter

"The flavours of melon, kiwi, Meyer lemon and notes of chive blossom and toast are very harmonious. A tantalising white that is skilfully knitted with razor-sharp acidity and salty minerality. It is long and creamy on the palate, with spice, mineral and herb accents on the lingering finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2021 Sauvignon Blanc Quarz is very seductive, with a rich blend of savoury herbs and grapefruit zest underscored by a cooling hint of white smoke. It is bold and smooth with a medium body and a pretty inner sweetness that borders on decadent but is balanced by an energising core of zesty acidity. Candied lemon and lime resonate, while hints of salty minerality and chalk dust provide a perfect contrast. Like most Quartz vintages, this wine will age well over the medium term. Nevertheless, there is no harm in enjoying it now in this wonderful primary state." Vinous

"The Sauvignon Quartz is a very exact and precise expression, with tropical tones, crushed stone, tomato leaves and green papaya. There is a hint of sweetness, like candied pineapple or mango ice cream. I have always felt a special connection with this wine. There's a hint of pulverised quartz stone on the finish." Wine Advocate

"A sophisticated Sauvignon with a complex and aromatic nose that offers notes of glazed citrus and stone fruit with honeysuckle and melon rind. The palate is full and structured with a lively acidity. Creamy with the texture of ripe nectarine and an exciting mineral finish." James Suckling

"Cantina Terlano's usual fascinating journey into the potential of Sauvignon Blanc. On the nose, cedar wood, lychee, a hint of nectarine, then a menthol note and cedar thyme. Dense, crisp and exciting on the palate, with a fruity, citrusy finish and a long aftertaste." Luca Gardini

"Bright, sparkling straw yellow colour. Very intense nose, rich aromas of dark redcurrants and elderflower, with a hint of tomato green, exciting. Also shows great flavour on the palate, lots of sage, salty, beautiful melting on the final, lingers for a very long time." Falstaff

G.D. Vajra's Ravera (whose site straddles the municipalities of Novello and Barolo) is always the most angular, powerful and vertical of their collection. It comes from soils with clay and sandstone at 320 to 340 metres above sea level. This is the ideal place for wines that show both power and elegance. The tannins are sweet, but every fibre of the backbone is dense and firm. Red and purple fruits with liquorice, tar and white truffle are neatly packed here, revealing themselves only gradually but then with beautiful precision and straightforwardness. The final has a wonderfully long reverberation, great! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, radiant ruby red with a lightening rim. Expressive on the nose, of wild berries, elderberries, also floral, then eucalyptus, plus noble spice, of black tea on the final. On the palate compact, juicy, with dense tannin, comes in several layers, energetic, salty in the final." Falstaff

"Lustrous mid ruby. Subtle, fragrant and concentrated and with fantastic depth and earthy minerally notes. Cherry and raspberry fruit with a hint of damson. Richly tannic adding chew to the juicy elegant fruit. On the finish, quite a bit of tannins that still need to integrate into the very long fruit finish. Compact and pithy." Jancis Robinson

"High-toned vanilla notes tie in with blue fruit purity. Rich and weighty with layers of fresh strawberries, raspberries, dried tobaccos, leather and earthy notes on the palate." Decanter

"This focused, fragrant red offers aromas of woodland berry, new leather, wild herb and pipe tobacco. The linear palate exhibits dried cherry, mocha and toasted nut set against close-grained tannins that leave a drying finish." Wine Enthusiast

"Rich, ripe mixed berries and perfumed bark on the nose. Medium-to full-bodied with some lightly firm tannin giving support to the fruit. Has a promising core. Give it a while to broaden out." James Suckling

"The 2018 Barolo Ravera is a powerful, tightly wound wine. Gravel, smoke, cured meats, spice, leather, tobacco and menthol emerge, but only with quite a bit of reticence. This deceptively mid-weight Barolo has a good bit of brawn." Vinous

"Seamlessly stitched together, the G.D. Vajra 2018 Barolo Ravera reveals tight layering and smooth texture. Fruit comes from an amphitheater of vines with Tortoniana epoch sandstone clay that is typical of parts of Barolo and Novello. What stands out here is the mineral character of the wine. It frames a dark core of plum, dark cherry and soft spice." Wine Advocate

Andrea Cortonesi's Brunello di Montalcino 2019 shows its best side right from the start. It combines richness, maturity and finesse to create a model of total balance. At first glance, it is dark, earthy and herbal, but with time in the glass, a massive wave of black cherries, raspberries, sage and a grounding note of undergrowth emerges. In the mouth, it coats everything it touches with a silky, cool texture that gives way to ripe red and black fruits complemented by spiced citrus, while nuances of lavender and tobacco develop. While the wine feels round and supple, fine-grained tannins slowly creep in, reminding you how young it really is. A hint of baker's chocolate, liquorice and a touch of tart blackberry resonate on the long final... SUPERIORE.DE

"Multifaceted bouquet with aromas of dark berries, leather and chocolate; the attack is full-bodied, the tannins perfectly integrated, develops full of esprit towards an extremely fruity final." Vinum

"Ripe ruby red with a brick-coloured rim. Fairly developed, ripe and brooding cherry fruit nose with hints of tobacco. The palate is much more backward but well put together, with plenty of chewy tannins that don't overpower the fruit. It's an old-school wine, and I'd wait another two years before approaching it. Very long and captivating." Jancis Robinson

"It opens with aromas reminiscent of cedar and pine forest, undergrowth and leather. The palate is full and powerful, but more square than round. A compact core of dark cherry is surrounded by chewy, generous tannins. A hint of dryness from the wood comes through. Still, this wine feels very real, and the underlying acidity provides a brightening effect." Decanter

"Perfumed and attractive with flavours of black cherries and berries, as well as lavender and rosemary flowers. Medium-bodied with firm tannins and a juicy finish. Needs to age in the bottle to mellow." James Suckling

"Dense and muscular, this red delivers a broad swath of cherry, plum and floral flavors, supplemented by iron, eucalyptus and sanguine notes. Tightens up on the finish, leaving a compact impression, yet this is persistent overall." Wine Spectator

"The Uccelliera 2019 Brunello di Montalcino offers ripe fruit, a hint of cooked blackberries and pomegranate juice. Together with oak spice and dried bay leaf, there is a hint of creaminess in the centre of the palate, reminiscent of cheese rind or matured chèvre with a crust of black pepper and thyme. This note fades, however, and the wine returns to dried cherry with a medicinal or herbal flavour. There is a lot going on. The wine needs more time in the bottle to work through the fine, chalky tannins. It's already elegant now, but it will improve." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is a profound and intense wine that shoots from the glass with a wave of autumnal spices, crushed cherries, cedar shavings and soaked plums underpinned by pine notes. This wine is highly structured, elegant and refined, with a dense wave of ripe forest fruits accompanied by vibrant acidity underscored by orange and balsamic herbs. It finishes grippy and lingering with a black hole of tension and a sweet and sour sensation that lingers on and on as crisp tannins reverberate within. The 2019 is youthfully backward today, but its balance is undeniable, especially as it has opened up over twenty-four hours. It is an absolute pleasure to taste this wine. Bury the 2019 deep in your cellar." Vinous

The already very well-balanced and classic 2018 vintage can gain again with Fuligni, because no Riserva was produced. Ruby red with orange reflections. On the nose, after some aeration, ripe morello cherries, violets, roses and lots of Mediterranean scrub. Powerful on the palate, the silky tannins give it elegance and the necessary balance, its complexity comes to the fore with every sip. This very authentic and strongly focused Brunello can be counted among the best of the vintage, its wonderfully balanced proportions and its juiciness will give it further impetus in the coming years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Clear, quite firm, a touch floral aroma of ripe red and also black berries with nutty aromas, a little tobacco, cigar ash, dried herbs and dried meat. Firmly woven, tart and juicy, quite noble fruit, present, fine, youthful tannin, some acid bite, peppery and ethereal herbal nuances on the palate, persistent, good depth, salt in the background, a little cocoa and coffee, complex, still undeveloped but already impressive, has tension and finesse, very good, tight finish with coffee notes and ethereal, also slightly resinous spice." Wein-Plus

"Sparkling, medium dense ruby with a broad garnet rim. Very fragrant and inviting nose, shows lots of fresh fruit, of fresh plum and cherry, fine herbal spice in the background. Compact and present in attack and course, shows itself very balanced and clear, very well integrated tannin, spreads out in long waves, nice juiciness in the drink." Falstaff

"Medium to deep ruby red with orange reflections. There is a kinship with the Rosso 2020 in the oak notes, but here it is a bit more complex and less exotic. Iron, cherry, raspberry with complex oak notes in the background. Cardamom and cumin. A good mouthful of juicy red fruits with fine but persistent tannins. Refreshing, transparent and elegant. Quite amazing balance and lovely bite." Jancis Robinson

"It takes quite a while for the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino to open in the glass. A cloud of white smoke gives way to a sweet-smelling blend of dried roses, sugared cherries and a hint of exotic spices. This is a round and supple 2018 that conveys elegance through its velvety texture, polished ripe red fruits and cascading florals of violets. The 2018 is opulent but also has the acidity to keep it balanced, as it finishes long with classically refined tannins but leaves the palate perfectly poised for another sip. Honestly, it's hard to put this glass down. No Riserva will be produced in 2018, so all the juice has been used to support this open and seductive Brunello." Vinous

"A fine Brunello with aromas and flavours of black cherries, hazelnuts and chocolate. Very perfumed. Medium body with a nice texture and delicious finish. Nice, fine tannins. Not the best structured red wine, but it will improve with age and is a wonderful treat right now." James Suckling

"The Fuligni 2018 Brunello di Montalcino stands out for its supple integration of aromas and the carefully balanced intensity achieved here, which shows verve but also remains very fine and nuanced. The bouquet is multi-layered and reminiscent of wild fruits, cassis, rock gravel, candied oranges and fresh herbs or rosemary. A floral note also emerges, reminiscent of rose or orris root. The tannins are very well integrated and silky. You hardly feel them, and yet the wine has a firm structure throughout." Wine Advocate

"An elegant, juicy red wine with pure cherry and rosehip flavours. Nice balance of fruit, acidity, tannins and texture, with accents of earth, tobacco and wild herbs adding detail. The long finish suggests great potential." Wine Spectator

"Under the direction of Maria Flora Fuligni since 1971, along with her long-time right-hand woman Dr Daniela Perino - now CEO of the winery - Fuligni is one of the denomination's most consistent performers. The 2018 does not disappoint: it embodies the elegance of the vintage. The nose is a captivating synthesis of flowers and earth, exuding pressed violets, lavender and roses with accents of truffle and tobacco. In the mouth, it unfolds with flavour rather than weight or power. Redcurrants and oranges are enhanced by piercing acidity, and the shapely, gorgeously textured tannins are chalky and appropriately cushioned, adding layers and depth. This wine, which is not beyond its capacity, will drink beautifully over the next decade." Decanter

The Fuligni winery offers an "evergreen" at its best with this version of the traditional-style Brunello. Blackcurrant and juniper on the nose, with a hint of pepper leaf on the finish. Salty and taut tannins on the palate, fruity-balsamic return on the finish." Luca Gardini

The world-famous Caiarossa is an extremely exciting blend of the Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Sangiovese, Syrah and Alicante varieties, with the rich, dark fruit flavours of the Cabernet grapes taking centre stage. On the nose, a beautiful first wave of dark fruits that never appear too ripe, which greatly benefits the elegance of the wine. The palate is very balanced and focussed with blackberries, cassis and slight hints of salty or rusty minerals. Caiarossa displays a good degree of elegance, not least due to its fine and taut tannins, and despite its density and complexity never comes across as opulent or even overloaded. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, rich colour. Sweet, intense and savoury, the Caiarossa 2020 has a deep and generous aroma, with lots of Cabernet character and a little Syrah fragrance. Rich, sweet, raisiny style. Melting, round and velvety in the mouth, its dense tannins remain present for a long time, as it does not have the aromatic richness of the past two years. It seems a little hollow in the centre, yet it has a lovely texture on the tongue, is long and spicy, racy and has lively acidity. Due to its great diversity of grape varieties, it has an extraordinary complexity, yet it is somewhat less rich and sweet than expected. Still has room for improvement!" Weinwisser

"Dark ruby red colour with fine violet reflections. Fine spice on the nose, cheese rind, cassis, blackberry, some mint, plus fine earthy tones and Mediterranean herbs. On the palate with a creamy entry and progression, dense and tightly meshed, shows juicy tannins, spans a wide arc, comes back again and again juicy and powerful, long." Falstaff

"Very dark, impenetrable purple red colour. Elevated nose of black forest fruits with a pinch of oak and a hint of damson plum. Supple black forest fruits and raspberries and just enough acidity to keep the overall tension. More medium-bodied than full-bodied. Long, fine-grained tannins that are a little bitter and noticeable on the finish, but this will improve with further bottle age." Jancis Robinson

"Offers a combination of blackcurrant, blackberry and clay flavours, with hints of iron and tobacco, supported by dense tannins that leave a burr on the finish." Wine Spectator

"On the nose, dark fruits and berries are balanced with the fresh lightness of white pepper, mint and eucalyptus. On the palate, notes of vanilla and dark chocolate emphasise the juicy breadth of the fruit, but a sharp, peppery finish provides a thought-provoking contrast and leads to a meditative finish." Wine Enthusiast

"The Caiarossa 2020 Caiarossa is one of the Italian wines closest to Bordeaux both in DNA (the estate is French-owned) and winemaking. This is a full-bodied red with a bold and very exuberant personality. There is balance and depth with plenty of purple and black fruits, spice and oak toast to add dimension and complexity." Wine Advocate

"Fragrant herbs and warm, sun-kissed black fruit on the nose - no wonder, as it was the warmest summer since 1800, but with plenty of rain in June and late August, which allowed the grapes to ripen well. It smells of baked blackcurrants and roses. It is supple and rich, generous and filling, with wonderfully plump but also quite defined tannins that give it structure and tension. The fruit is tangy and ripe, and the acidity creates a tension between sharpness and ripeness. The wine is round, direct and forward, it has energy and structure, and I love the freshness that lingers on the tongue. Well executed with plenty of perfume and a mineral, stony grip on the finish alongside dried herbs and liquorice spice. A delicious Tuscan wine with a French flair." Decanter

"Aromatic with dried cherries and plum skins as well as spiced chocolate, lilac, walnut shell and nutmeg. Also some wet stones. The palate is full, structured and broad with super-fine tannins. It is powerful but not heavy with freshness and crispness. It shows intensity and richness. Give it time." James Suckling

"The 2020 Caiarossa is the best wine I've tasted from this estate in some time, perhaps ever. Rich, deep and yet not at all heavy, the 2020 offers an exotic blend of dark cherry/plum fruit, mocha, liquorice, new leather and incense. All the elements are so beautifully balanced." Vinous

The years of the COVID-19 pandemic were particularly fruitful for Giovanni Manetti, you could call them an epiphany. He had time to reflect and walked through his vineyards in the Conca d'Oro in Panzano in Chianti, an amphitheatre of postcard-perfect vines, and decided it was time to expand his portfolio. In particular, he was looking for a way to better articulate the concept of Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, which is essentially a perfect vehicle for a grand cru winemaking philosophy. His existing Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is a flagship for this highest category of appellation, but unfortunately it only represents a single vineyard site. The fruit comes from an area with a higher proportion of schistose galestro for dark fruit, etched mineral notes and pencil shavings. Now this wine can be seen in context.

This is how the Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Terrazze San Leolino was created. It comes from a vineyard in Panzano, not too far from Vigna del Sorbo. However, this small parcel near the San Leolino chapel is characterised by calcareous Alberese, which produces fresh wines with a less dark character. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, radiant ruby red colour. Very spicy on the nose, with hints of leather and pepper, also reminiscent of wet stone, opens up on ripe dark berries at the back, with a blood-like finish. Spreads out with great freshness and compact tannins, immediately present, balanced and with class, pithy and with firm pressure on the finish." Falstaff

"A pretty red that evokes aromas and flavours of cherries, blackberries, blackcurrants, violets and iron, supported by lively tannins and vibrant acidity that make the wine concentrated and long-lasting." Wine Spectator

"The best fruit from 15-year-old vines was set aside to make this 5,000-bottle first release. The famous Vigna del Sorbo is not far away, but compared to the wine from that site, the Terrazze San Leonlino is sharper, more concentrated and offers a leaner fruit weight. The bouquet tends towards wild roses and Mediterranean herbs, which gives the flavours more vertical pressure. The tannins are silky and polished." Wine Advocate

"Impressive flavours of blackberries and peppers with a hint of toffee. Full-bodied, round, soft and juicy." James Suckling

"The brand new Terrazze San Leolino Gran Selezione from Fontodi is a real eye-catcher. San Leolino was recognised as a cru site 200 years ago. The recently renovated terraces are located at an altitude of 450 metres in Panzano, but unlike Fontodi's Vigna del Sorbo, which is characterised by Galestro, the soil here consists of calcareous Alberese. Although it has only recently been bottled, it already shows its earthy, stony and mineral flavours. On the palate, it is elegant and profound, with decisive flavours of roses, red cherries and long, enveloping tannins that end with a tangy salinity. It is still very closed, but promising." Decanter

"From a beautiful project in biological management near the Conca d’oro of Panzano, soil characterized by the presence of trees. Notes of pomegranate on the nose, rosehip and wild sage. The palate is taut-sapid, with fruity-floral return and intense drinkability." Luca Gardini

Dark, bright ruby with garnet colour. Pure power of aromas, dense and complex with notes of black cherries, smoked ham, savoury herbs, tobacco, liquorice and many other nuances. Equally fascinating on the palate, firm tannins, impressive complexity and depth with noticeable potential for ageing. SUPERIORE.DE

"The nose opens with savory notes of tar, topsoil and balsamic vinegar before a bracingly fresh burst of wild fennel and mint. Fresh, crisp red fruit on the palate has a chocolaty undertone with more tar and crushed rock for a mineral edge, emphasized by tightly coiled tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"Discreet flavours of undergrowth and damp earth mingle with tea, tobacco and thyme. The wine is round and flattering and envelops the palate. As it expands, it reveals its power. The dry tannins at the edges should soften with time, but it is still immediately inviting." Decanter

"It is spicy and racy with dark cherries, redcurrants, savoury herbs, walnuts and sandalwood. Medium to full-bodied with ripe, powdery tannins, juicy acidity and a mineral backbone on the palate. Bright and fruity on the finish." James Suckling

"A supple red with a firm grip wrapped around dark flavours of black cherry, blueberry and earth. Lively, with a slight burr to the chalky tannins on the ferrous finish." Wine Spectator

"The San Felice 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Il Grigio is characterised by its velvety richness and expressive flavour profile. The wine offers a measured intensity with bright purple and black fruits, a good sense of energy and dynamism and a certain lingering spiciness on the finish. It is rich but not heavy." Wine Advocate

"Cranberry in the mouth, nuances of pepper leaves and liquorice. The mouthfeel is savoury, sour cherry comeback." Luca Gardini

"The best of the best - you don't drink this wine every day. It needs attention, time to mature and likes to play the leading role: as the crowning glory of a festive table or even as a proud solitaire." Michael Graf Goëss-Enzenberg, Weingut Manincor

Noble and pure, the Mason di Mason Pinot Nero shines with flavours of raspberry, rose blossom, undergrowth and sweet spices. Elegant and seamlessly round on the palate with incredible balance, complexity and detail. A knockout Pinot Noir! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, brightening ruby red colour. Noble, delicate nose of ripe wild berries, notes of spruce shoots, citrus, fragrant. Light-footed and elegant on the palate, with clear fruit, beautiful acidity, red berry flavours and freshness, balanced, with a high drinking flow and medium length." Falstaff

"The 2020 Pinot Nero Mason di Mason delivers varietal tones of pressed violet, candied orange and sweet watermelon. You also get a distinct savoury quality with tobacco leaf, steeped tea, ozone, tar and wet asphalt. The wine has a nice, lean body with fine tannins." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 Mason di Mason seduces with aromas of foreign spices, cedar, curry leaves, crushed stones and dried black cherries. This is pure class, silky and supple, with a core of mineral red fruit and vibrant acidity that keeps the energy going. The 2020 finishes with a concentrated and remarkably long finish of blood orange and tart raspberry notes that fills the cheeks. It could do with a short stay in the cellar to mature a little more. The Mason di Mason is the cru in the cru Pinot Noir of Manincor, which comes from the oldest vines of the Mazon vineyard." Vinous

Mason di Mason is described by the winery as "a Grand Cru within a Grand Cru". It comes from the highest and oldest parcels of the Mazzon vineyard with thinner moraine soils over hard limestone, resulting in smaller berries. The aromas of red and black cherries are joined by bitter herbs, cocoa and earth, which are reflected in the mouth, where the flavour is intense, structured and woody. It is juicy and combines good concentration with excellent length." Decanter

"This wine is very aromatic, with a very pure fruit, with notes of pink roses, blood orange and potpourri. Also some iodine. Medium to full-bodied with plenty of tension and mouth-filling juiciness. The tannins are supple and melt into the fruit. Delicious and long. Beautifully made." James Suckling

Deep ruby red, intense, fresh aroma of dark fruit underpinned with delicate toasted aromas. Complex and full-bodied on the palate, with balsamic notes, perfectly integrated tannins and a finely balanced fruity-spicy finish. An intense wine that also doesn't want to be a lightweight and that plays off its power perfectly. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Orma 2020 from the Moretti Cuseri family is half Merlot with 30% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Cabernet Franc. As usual, the Orma brings a fair amount of weight with it at 15% by volume, resulting in a massive, dark colour. Rich in smell and less liqueur-like than usual, the Orma 2020 has more freshness and also the fruit aromas seem clearer, underpinned with fresh herbs, pithy and berry-cherry oriented. Initially round and juicy-melting on the tongue, the powerful tannins then still seem a little raw, with glassy-steely structure." Weinwisser

"Bright ruby with a slight violet shimmer. Intense nose with notes of cloves, some mint, fine blackberry, slightly earthy components in the background. Spreads out great on the palate, has lots of fine-meshed, hearty tannin, nice juiciness, crisp fruit, long final." Falstaff

"The Orma 2020 is richly concentrated and midnight black in colour. It shows considerable intensity in terms of its inky aromas of wild plums, blackberry jam, dark spices and smoked tobacco. The wine coats the palate strongly and adds important textural richness. Best served with a wine of this depth and size with a classic bistecca alla fiorentina with T-bone." Wine Advocate

"Fragrances delicately, then increasingly beguiling of blueberries, maquis, with fine spice; the attack multi-faceted, the tannins youthful, though perfectly contoured, of great character and length to an opulent wild berry-pepper final." Vinum

"Fragrant and expressive on the nose, the floral and herbal scents mingle on the nose and transport you straight to Tuscany. Sublime and beautiful, a sensationally vibrant, lively, pure and pristine wine. The texture of the wine is so meticulous that the fruit flavours and mineral aspects have a joyful quality - a purity and precision. Detailed and refined. Impressive with fleshy but well-integrated tannins and a drive through to a long, fresh finish. Complexity and structure, very well balanced. A top choice and a great value!" Decanter

"Tobacco, sage and rosemary come through well, along with redcurrant and cassis. Full-bodied but polished, with a solid and dense mid-palate. It's tight on the finish at the moment, but it will open up nicely." James Suckling