Falstaff

Fragrant bouquet of light blossoms, peach and tropical fruits, slight hints of honey and minerals. Supple texture on the palate, very balanced, complex and with an invigorating mineral freshness. A very rare, remarkable Tuscan Chardonnay, aged for 11 months on lees in barriques. Chardonnay Collezione Privata is a real achievement, especially for its natural ability to present the purity of the grape variety and the importance of texture in equal measure. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2021 Chardonnay Collezione Privata is a wine of unusual pedigree and depth. Lemon zest, dried pear, chamomile, white pepper and crushed rock give the 2021 a layered complexity. I particularly admire the sense of verticality in this wine." Vinous

"Bright straw yellow. Ripe white fruits with a hint of spicy oak, a touch of oatmeal and cut lemon. Focused and with a hint of orange blossom. White fruits with just a hint of oak that is very restrained. Gentle, citrusy white fruit flavours with a hint of creaminess, but the focus was clearly on maintaining freshness; something that is increasingly in demand as global warming increases. The wine is very drinkable but should become even more interesting in a few years." Jancis Robinson

"Attractive aromas of walnut, peach pit and vanilla with grilled lemon and sliced quince. Full and textured with a creamy mouthfeel. Structured and complex with nutty and mineral undertones on the finish. Rounded and long lasting final." James Suckling

"The Isole e Olena 2021 Chardonnay Collezione Privata has a very citrusy side with grapefruit and preserved lemon. These fresh aromas transition into hints of cinnamon and saffron, but the overall style is reductive in character. This is a medium-bodied white wine with a nice richness and salty, mineral notes on the finish. This Tuscan Chardonnay has a lot of character. However, the wine needs time to gain more weight and texture." Wine Advocate

"Bright, intense straw yellow with light green nuances. Opens with notes of hazelnuts and white asparagus, then pear and fresh apple. Fresh and clear on the nose, salty, opens very nicely, creates a wide range of tension, creamy on the final." Falstaff

Bright, medium ruby colour with a brightening rim. Pinot Nero Renaissance Riserva opens smoky in the glass, with fine aromas of wild strawberries, blackberries and sage. On the palate, it soothes with its soft textures, which are enriched by salty, mineral tones and tart wild berry fruits. Very polished tannins, complex and multi-layered with further aeration, yet highly aristocratic. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, medium-dense ruby colour with a light rim. Opens with smoky, spicy components, then lots of raspberry, some pomegranate, exciting. Spreads out on the palate with lots of juicy fruit, raspberry and sour cherries, fine-meshed, dense ruby, spreads out for a long time, good tension." Falstaff

"The 2019 Riserva Pinot Noir Renaissance is extremely bright and focused, with a beautiful bouquet that shows elements of roses, wild berries, blood orange, crushed slate, smoke and camphor ash. The flavours are outstanding and the wine continues on the palate with medium intensity. Only 3,000 bottles were produced." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Pinot Noir Riserva Renaissance is decidedly savoury, with a spicy blend of dried cherries accented by ground ginger, cloves and grilled herbs. It glides effortlessly across the palate, silky and round, with lively acidity and mineral tones giving way to tart red and black fruits. The finish is medium-long and slightly tannic. A hint of sour citrus gradually fades." Vinous

Black cherry fruit, smoke, wild herbs, liquorice and tar form a compelling backdrop of aromas, flavours and textures as this dazzling, powerful Barolo opens up in the glass. The intense final is accompanied by delicate rose petals, lavender and a fine mineral-salty vein. Its stable tannin structure awaits a few more years of ageing in the bottle, as is typically the case with a classic Serralunga Barolo. SUPERIORE.DE

"The bouquet is dominated by forest fruit and wild flower flavours, also fine spice; juicy in the mouth, the tannins noticeable, ends long on notes of plums and liquorice. To accompany a roast beef." Vinum

"Notes of ground spices, nutshells and cedar wood with subtle flavours of red fruits in the background. Medium-bodied, structured and firm. Strong and slightly tart on the finish." James Suckling

"Aromas of cherries, raspberry liqueur, mint and minerals emphasise this taut, dense red wine, which is balanced and has notes of eucalyptus and juniper on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"The Barolo Baudana 2019 offers good power and ripeness with sweet fruit flavours, dark cherry, spices and ferruginous earth. These flavours are characteristic of this vineyard in Serralunga d'Alba. On the palate, the wine is silky and generous, with a salty minerality on the finish." Wine Advocate

"The Baudana, fermented and aged in large oak barrels, shows great complexity and finesse of liquorice root, smoky forest, rose and violet aromas, with wild strawberry and peony in the depths. The palate is firm and acidic, with structured but fine-grained tannins. It has the dustiness typical of Nebbiolo and is super-tart but fierce in character, with a hint of youthful rusticity on the finish. I would age it given its old-fashioned character." Decanter

"Intense, sparkling ruby colour with a slightly light rim. Opens with distinctly fragrant notes of peony, fresh cherries and some strawberry. Juicy on the attack and on the palate, with beautifully emphasised fruit and polished tannins that create firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"Vivid aromas of cherry stand out as the dominant fruit note, harmonizing with abundant mineral and mixed spice characteristics. The palate presents a firm yet giving structure. The chiseled palate offers notes of wildflowers, savory herbs and spices finishing with a persistent minerality." Wine Enthusiast

"The most classic of all house brands, a wine with complexity and finesse. Notes of red plums on the nose, then mentholated notes of eucalyptus, juniper and fresh bay leaves. Juicy and sweet on the palate, with a menthol-fruity finish and a long aftertaste that is rounded off with notes of medicinal herbs." Luca Gardini

"The Barolo Baudana 2019 is absolutely captivating. Exuberant and bright in the glass, with plenty of freshness and remarkable purity of fruit, the Baudana offers generous dark red fruit, spice, leather, cherry, candy, cedar, tobacco and undergrowth. It has enormous depth and exceptional balance. Rose petals, white pepper and chalk add a special touch to the intense, savoury finish." Vinous

Palazzo Lana Extrême Riserva is a masterpiece from a great vintage. The pure Pinot Nero is characterised by a complex bouquet of fresh yeast, pear and lemongrass. Bright fruit on the palate, firm, with lively acidity and wonderfully consistent perlage. SUPERIORE.DE

"Noble straw yellow with a drop of copper and a persistent perlage. A nose of cold smoke, elegant precious wood, milk chocolate, candied fruit and fine porcini mushrooms, sea salt, very complex and inviting. Balanced and very elegant on the palate, with plenty of juice and fruit flavours, simultaneously pure and bone-dry, with a tightly meshed perlage and a long finish." Falstaff

"Complex notes of grapefruit, fresh figs, lemons, green apples, walnuts, chalk and salted nuts. It is lively and racy, with a medium body and broad, creamy bubbles. Excellent flavour intensity and persistence with a dry and nutty finish." James Suckling

"This 100% Pinot Noir from the classic and historic Berlucchi estate does not disappoint. Aromas of roasted pineapple, grilled peach, warmed honey, baking spices, and fresh bread define the heady nose. The rich and structured palate shows notes of candied citrus, white strawberry and crushed stone, finishing with crisp and radiant." Wine Enthusiast

"A bouquet of sweet smoke, crushed pear, chamomile and dusty dried flowers makes the 2011 Franciacorta Riserva Palazzo Lana unmissable. On the palate, this wine displays a balance of soothing bubbles, salty minerals and ripe, ginger-flavoured apples that provide pure elegance. Despite being labelled Extra Brut, the wine is bone dry on the finish, leaving notes of raw almonds, hazelnuts and citrus that linger. The 2011 is complex, with fantastic depth and balance. It is an absolute pleasure to taste." Vinous

"The 2011 Franciacorta Riserva Palazzo Lana Extrême Extra Brut from Guido Berlucchi has a thick layer of creamy peach or apricot that goes beyond the bouquet and ultimately colours the palate richly. These fruits are framed by small hints of exotic spices, cinnamon and caraway. The acidity is lively and the wine finishes on a dry note with a slight effervescence. This is certainly a delicious sparkling food wine." Wine Advocate

The name says it all: Marne means marl soil, on which the vines for this marvellous Amarone grow. They are over 20 years old and lie in an ideal 180° direction, from south-west to south-east. Rich, shiny ruby red colour, compact bouquet with intense aromas of plum, black cherry, green tea and tobacco, with a fine chocolate note in the background. The body, coated in fine berry fruit, develops a dynamic flavour experience on the palate with a sweet fruit melt, firm tannins and a long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Ruby red in colour. Notes of ripe red fruit, cherries, redcurrants, blueberries with a slight hint of mint. Structured on the palate with warm and enveloping notes, present, well-integrated tannins. Long and juicy finish." Falstaff

"The Amarone della Valpolicella Marne 180 from the 2019 vintage is savoury and quite mineral and opens with various wild berries, herbal notes and brown spice. A juicy blend of ripe red and black fruits unfolds on the palate. Salty minerals slowly saturate and give the wine more traction towards the end. The 2019 finishes with a burst of inner sweetness contrasted by chewy concentration and framing tannins, leaving behind tart cherry and sage nuances." Vinous

"Almost coffee-coloured, dried red berries on the nose, developing into a full, silky palate with fine tannins that are well integrated into the wine, carrying the intense berry and dark cherry fruit into a long finish." James Suckling

"This lush yet well-balanced Amarone opens with aromas of black currant, wild blackberry dusted with wild herbs, sweet spices and pepper. Crushed black cherries, espresso and violet notes hold court on the structured palate, which is backed by a minerality and finishes with ripe tannins." Decanter

"Balsamic nose full of complex aromas of ripe dark plums, sultanas, black cherries, chocolate and spicy notes of meat juice. The palate is warm, broad and intense, supported by a lively acidity." Decanter

The name Tresette is derived from the fact that only 2,800 bottles of this single-varietal Merlot are produced each year and it is aged in three Liters French oak barrels. The grapes come from old vines on a plot 480 metres above sea level, and it is only vinified in the best years. Tresette is a cool, archetypal Merlot that is very elegant and unique in Tuscany and is entirely in keeping with the house style. Juicy blackberry flavours, clove, herbs and spices on the nose. Enveloped by supple tannins, this fresh red leads into a delicious finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense ruby red colour. Notes of cherry, raspberry and sour cherry, with a hint of herbs and Mediterranean scrub. Deep and soft on the palate, with excellently integrated tannins and a spicy, fresh finish." Falstaff

"Violets, raspberries and passion fruit on the nose of this Tuscan Merlot join with savory notes of graphite, wet stone near a running stream, and black olives. Juicy fruit bursts through on the palate, offering cherry, strawberry and raspberry. Firm if forgiving tannins strike a tension between powerful and graceful." Wine Enthusiast

"The Riecine 2018 Merlot TreSette comes from a site with schistose galestro clay soils. This wine is dark and velvety in texture with dark fruit, spice and savory tones of dark cherry and plum. What stands out most in this Tuscan Merlot is the robust nature of the mouthfeel. This creative wine is made with early-ripening fruit from one of the wildest corners of the region." Wine Advocate

"Attractive red with plum, herb and orange-peel character. Medium body, refined tannins and a fresh, vivid finish. Really delicious now." James Suckling

The excellent Cabernet-Merlot blend Giusto di Notri is a concentrated wine with an intense, rich flavour. A perfectly balanced bouquet of blackberry, blackcurrant and fine herbal spice. Compact on the palate with a well-tempered balance between fruit and oak, plus a distinctive tannin, promising and powerful in the final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, deep, dark ruby-purple colour. Present and rich nose, inspiring with notes of blackcurrant, mulberry and blackberry, spicy cedar wood, some grape sugar. Fine-meshed tannin, unfolds continuously, shows full grip, clear, dark berry fruit, firm pressure on the final, good freshness and juiciness." Falstaff

"Intense aromas of redcurrant, sweet tobacco, lead pencil and terracotta. Medium to full body with polished tannins that are very well integrated into the wine. It is racy and long with lovely mocha and subtle fruit on the finish." James Suckling

"The 2021 Giusto di Notri is 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc and 10% Merlot. Intensity and depth are highlighted nicely here. This benefits complexity and aromas. The vintage also delivers more freshness and balanced tannins. This is a beautiful wine, one that's set up for long cellar aging." Wine Advocate

The red Archineri from Nerello Mascalese grapes is full of character and elegant. Very refined bouquet of currants and wild berries, plus a hint of dog roses, stone fruit and ethereal aromas. Very exquisite, very juicy, tasty and long. SUPERIORE.DE

"Shiny garnet with copper accent in the rim. Pronounced scent of dried raspberries, cranberry jam, some white pepper and wet stone. Tightens up with fine-meshed tannin, crisp freshness, harmonious in attack and course, very fresh in the drink, keeps coming." Falstaff

"Aromas of woodland berry, Mediterranean scrub, camphor and oak-driven spice shape the nose on this fragrant red. On the tight palate, firm acidity accompanies raspberry jam, orange zest, vanilla and licorice. Firm, grainy tannins leave a puckering, drying close. Give the tannins a few years more years to relax a bit then drink." Wine Enthusiast

Since the exceptional 2019 harvest, Luca Sanjust has taken another step towards "quality without compromise" with his Boggina C. The yields per plant have been reduced even further and the selection of grapes from the identified parcel has been made even stricter. This led to a reduction in the number of bottles available to around 3,000. The same meticulousness was also applied in the cellar by selecting the most suitable 7 hectolitre barrels for ageing "sur lie". Great attention was paid to their wood grain and toasting in order to achieve the harmony and flavour that a pure Grand Cru Sangiovese should have.

Bòggina C Riserva brings out the fragrance, brightness and depth of expression of Sangiovese from the Bòggina vineyard in a unique way. This version underlines the inimitable and unmistakable character of this wine, which comes from the heart of the Chianti mountains overlooking the Val d'Arno di Sopra, from where it derives the unmistakable magic of its aromas, colours and brilliance. A wine that not only warms Luca's heart, but also shows the great path that the winery has been following for years. Boggina C is the archetype of a taut and wonderfully precise Sangiovese with impressive depth. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, dark ruby colour with a slight violet tinge. Very clear and memorable nose, intense aromas of violets, plums and blood oranges, some smoky, earthy notes in the background. Polished and finely meshed on the palate, with plenty of juicy fruit, rich cherry and raspberry flavours and a very long finish." Falstaff

"A wonderful Sangiovese with aromas and flavours of orange peel, cherries, cherry blossom and sandalwood. Medium-bodied with very fine tannins that extend over the entire length of the wine. Fresh and lively with a solid fruit centre on the finish. Stylish is the right word. From organically grown grapes." James Suckling

"Beautiful artwork on the front label, the organic Petrolo 2021 Val d'Arno di Sopra Riserva Bòggina C is quite dense and rich, especially for a youthful Sangiovese such as this. The wine reveals a medium-dark appearance with dried cherry fruit, blackcurrant and baked plum. The wine is considerably lighter in terms of mouthfeel, with powdery tannins and mid-weight texture that adds to its overall elegance. The wine delivers authenticity and personality." Wine Advocate

This iconic wine, which is rare and very highly rated every year, presents itself in a brilliant, rich ruby colour. The bouquet is full of crisp berry fruit, ripe dark cherries, sweet plums and delicate notes of cinnamon. Full-bodied and firm on the palate, very juicy, develops a finely worked tannin and glides in a wide arc into a powerful, long final. A great wine full of vigour and elegance. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling ruby colour with a fine garnet sheen. Impressive nose, very finely characterised, aromas of juicy cherries, blood orange and dried thyme, some liquorice in the background. Polished and precise from the attack to the final, fine-meshed, very well-integrated tannins, flows beautifully, finely elaborated fruit, long final." Falstaff

"The I Sodi di San Niccolò 2019 is another great wine from Castellare. At this stage, the 2019 is still a child. The purity of the fruit is convincing. Despite its considerable intensity, the 2019 seems to have less tannins than in many other years, which should allow it to drink well with minimal cellaring. Blood orange, sweet spices, leather and cedar linger on the stylish finish." Vinous

"This is a long-famous blend of 85% Sangioveto (another name for Sangiovese) and 15% Malvasia Nera from one of the leading wineries of Castellina in Chianti. The Castellare di Castellina 2019 I Sodi di S. Niccolò opens with a soft texture and medium weight with dark aromas of blackcurrant and cherry. These flavours reveal an earthy and spicy side that continues on the palate. The wine finishes with sweet tannins and this vintage has a solid structure overall." Wine Advocate

"An intense, vibrant red with hauntingaromas of violet, black cherry, blackberry, wild rosemary, eucalyptus and iron. Supple and open, but with a solid structure underneath. The precise balance of this wine makes it approachable now, but it will be even better in two to three years. Spicy aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"Complex and deeply embedded flavours of ripe blackberries, spices and aromatic bark. Full-bodied and very firm for now, with impressive concentration of fruit and tannin. Very long, balanced finish. A great wine for now, but a wine for the cellar. Patience will be rewarded. Sangiovese and Malvasia Nera. This has always been a top Tuscan red wine. Best from 2027." James Suckling

"Super fragrant nose, patchouli, potpourri, Turkish delight, rose with caramelised red berries and a hint of smoke and incense - all very present and expressive. You could smell the nose alone for hours, it is so complex and beguiling. On the palate, it is powerful and concentrated, broad and muscular, sinewy with depth and determination. The tannins are well integrated, supporting the fruit and acidity and driving the flavours forward despite the obvious weight and grip. The red berry flavours continue on the palate with hints of stone, graphite and matches. Rich and big on the mid-palate, it becomes more focused towards the finish. Definitely well made and full of life. The acidity is great, cool, clean, smooth and packed with flavour. It's almost too much, because this wine is big and needs time, but it has great appeal and is fresh throughout." Decanter

"A blend of Sangioveto and Malvasia Nera, which has always been a wine totem for Tuscan production. Blackberry jam and Mediterranean scrub on the nose, a hint of eucalyptus, dense and flavourful on the palate, very persistent on the finish, with a balsamic hint." Luca Gardini

Altero - the flagship of the winery - is a beautiful, smooth wine with dark red cherries, cherry brandy, menthol, pine wood and spices. The silky finish is enveloped by sweet, floral notes. The top vintage 2015 is characterized by its fine texture and an impeccable overall balance with a high density. For us, it is one of the most rounded, precise and rich Brunello of this vintage, with an ageing potential that will satisfy every expectation. SUPERIORE.DE

"Engaging nose of raspberries and violets; the acidity accentuates, lots of juice and fullness, in short: a large, elegant Sangiovese with cut, fruitiness and length. Can mature." Vinum

"Bright, rich ruby grenade. Intense and clear nose, of violets and dark cherries, with cranberries in the background. Lots of crisp cherry on the palate, polished, well-integrated tannin, smooth and long." Falstaff

"One of the first things I notice in the 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Altero is the increased richness or concentration (especially compared to the estate's classic Brunello from the same vintage). That wine is slightly more streamlined and contoured compared to the Altero that wears a heavier mantle made with thicker fiber and texture. This impression is especially evident on the bouquet where you pick up a hint of extra softness or ripeness that comes thanks to this warm vintage. The bouquet offers sensations of dried cherry skin or plum with sweet spice and moist potting soil." Wine Advocate

"A beautiful cascade of blue and darker fruit precedes generous, enticing notes of saffron, dried orange rind, cumin, roasted thyme and nutmeg. Balanced and tightly framed on the medium-to full-bodied palate with mouthwatering fruit and crunchy acidity, coloring an ornately woven structure of silky tannins. Very long and velvety on the finish. Everything is where it should be." James Suckling

Deep violet-red in colour, the bouquet has nuances of juniper berries, tar, smoke and liquorice. The Montefalco Rosso Riserva is very juicy and offers an attractive combination of elegance and structure, rich flavours and polished tannins. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby violet colour. Black pepper, curry, pickled cherries and very ripe plums on the nose, with a blackberry jam aftertaste. On the palate with grip and power, showing dark fruit and rich, tightly meshed tannins, currently still a baby, but will come together well, put away and enjoy fully in a few years." Falstaff

"On the nose, this wine shows intense aromas of red and black fruits, mixed with cocoa, allspice and dried flowers. On the palate, there is a lively acidity that emphasises the tart fruit notes. The taut palate suggests that some time in the cellar will be helpful." Wine Enthusiast

"Aromas of dried sage, coriander and dried plums. Full-bodied with firm tannins. Spicy. Expansive and dense, with layers of fruit and spice. Very good intensity and depth. Needs more time to develop." James Suckling

"The 2019 Montefalco Rosso Riserva shows us how much depth and complexity can be achieved with this combination of local varieties. The wine is intense and particularly concentrated thanks to ripe fruit and careful oak ageing. You can feel the power of the Sagrantino tannins, but this power is well measured and under control. With its dark and crisp fruit, this is a wine to savour." Wine Advocate

A very special wine made from overripe and strictly selected Aglianico grapes that thrive in Mastroberardino's south-facing vineyards. The Taurasi is aged for two years in oak barrels and one year in the bottle. A wine with a fascinating personality, power and extremely high ageing Storage potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2018 Taurasi Radici is like pushing through a cinder block to find a treasure chest of exotic spices, incense and cinnamon-coloured blackcurrants. It's a soft and generous expression of Radici, with a depth of tart black fruits balanced by dark chocolate and sour citrus notes. It finishes with tremendous length, but without the typical hard tannins associated with Aglianico in its youth, leaving behind inner earth and herbal notes. The 2018 finishes on a savoury note. This Radici is a much stronger expression of Radici." Vinous

"Bright ruby red with a slightly brightening rim. On the nose, ripe heart cherries and dark forest berries, with an aftertaste of violets, leather and undergrowth, very complex. Fresh and savoury on the palate, with fine-grained and well-integrated tannins, lots of ripe fruit, long final, a long runner." Falstaff

"The Mastroberardino 2018 Taurasi Radici, with its distinctive black label, offers impressive complexity with a long succession of flavours that include dried blackberries, cherry liqueur, tarry smoke, campfire ash, sweet baking spices and cinnamon. Blackberries, rosemary sprigs and forest floor also characterise the bouquet. The whole is rounded off with soft tobacco. This wine displays powerful fruit and an equally balanced oak flavour. The tannins are well integrated and the Radici is long-lasting." Wine Advocate

"The nose is heavy with dark fruit and flowers, but edgier, slightly spicy aromas of graphite and pepper provide balance. On the palate, the fruit sweetens but is balanced by bitter dark chocolate, before an overwhelming earthiness arrives riding an avalanche of dusty tannins, and a rush of acid harkens back to the subtle metallic tang of the nose." Wine Enthusiast

Barolo Bricco delle Viole 2018 is unusually open and seductive, as it is normally rather shy and needs time before it shows the full range of its personality. Rose petals, spices and red-coloured fruits float in the glass, supported by fine, racy tannins. In the drink, then, the typical, medium-heavy characteristics of Bricco delle Viole, at the same time the contours are soft and the wine's personality demands the next sip. Vajra fans should give it a few more years of maturity, despite its current accessibility. SUPERIORE.DE

"Appealing bouquet with nuances of wild berries, mushrooms and herbs; pithy attack with fine-grained tannin, the acidity well integrated, lots of melting and juice. Pleases with its compact style." Vinum

"Bright fruits, raspberries and citrus, floral and spicy notes; substantial type with taut acidity and balanced tannins; the bright and at the same time spicy character is also convincing on the palate, fine and focused, timelessly elegant." Weinwisser

"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

"Just mid ruby with the beginning of orange tinges. Concentrated and subtle at the same time with brooding concentration and beautiful depth. Bags of chewy tannins that make their mark on the still-embryonic fruit on the palate. Long, elegant, fresh and still to open up further. Elegant filigree fruit on the finish. Definitely needs more time." Jancis Robinson

"Intense, flavorful Barolo that shows some good, nutty red-fruit character and fine, firm tannin. Medium-bodied and very tight. Needs time to even out." James Suckling

"The 2018 Barolo Bricco delle Viole is finely cut and chiseled, as it so often is. Dried flowers, mint, crushed rocks, pine and red berry fruit all grace this taut, sculpted Barolo. The 2018 has all of the energy of this site, but its signatures are decidedly dialed down." Vinous

"Heady aromas of violet, camphor, leather and tobacco lead the way on this fragrant red. On the palate, tightly knit, fine-grained tannins accompany ripe Marasca cherry, crushed raspberry and licorice. Fresh acidity keeps it balanced." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2018 Barolo Bricco delle Viole is not super intense, but it is balanced in its own way. The wine is subdued but complete with softly yielding tannins to support an elegantly streamlined mouthfeel. Bricco delle Viole is a high and cool growing site in Barolo at 400 to 480 meters in elevation with characteristic Sant'Agata marl soils with fossils. The wine represents a selection of fruit from over seven hectares. With fermentation in steel tank and aging in large Slavonian oak, you are invited to a silky, lifted and beautifully delicate experience with an accessible personality." Wine Advocate

"An elegant version, this red features rose, black currant, cherry, mineral and a hint of eucalyptus aromas and flavors. Linear in profile, this is solidly built on a graceful frame, with finely woven tannins and vibrant acidity." Wine Spectator

"The nervy style of Bricco delle Viole is excited by the lightness of the 2018 vintage. The nose is dominated by leafy lightness and vibrant aromas ranging from cherry kernel to lemon leaf. It could seem to have low complexity but its focused on a sort of austere freshness that's worth discovering. The firm palate with quite aggressive acidity and almost sturdy youth is allied to great fruit concentration. The savoury finish is loaded with dust and chalk." Decanter

Sauvignon Bianco Rachtl comes from a small micro-location of just 0.4 hectares. It gets its fine flint and graphite nose from the porphyry soils near Unteraicha in the municipality of Völs. Very subtle on the palate with fine saline acidity, fresh fruit and a long-lasting finish. If you can call one of the 2,000 bottles of this vintage your own, you can count yourself lucky! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, pale straw yellow with light green notes. Opens with notes of sage and flint, green asparagus and some smoke. Salty on the palate, shows very good tension, finely elaborated fruit, lingers beautifully." Falstaff

"The 2020 Sauvignon Blanc Riserva Rachtl shows aromas of candied lemon peel, preserved pineapple and a hint of ripe apricot. The wine has a medium-bodied texture with a certain heaviness of the warm vintage, but also a much-needed acidity. Only 2,000 bottles were produced." Wine Advocate

"Bright flavours of lemon, satsuma and smoky minerals with clean, precise acidity and nice concentration; long and fresh." Decanter

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

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

Stilèma Taurasi is an austere and complex wine with excellent drinkability and great ageing potential. A modern interpretation of the style of the great Taurasi from the 1950s and 1960s. Stilèma Taurasi is the result of a compositional work that has brought together different but synergistic micro-territorial stories, creating a unique and complex expressiveness. Pietradefusi, Montemarano, Paternopoli and Mirabella Eclano are the different sites of the family from which the grapes come, distinguished by their altitude, microclimate and soils.

Soft ruby red with delicate reflections and luminous transparency. The nose offers complex aromas, fruity and floral nuances in harmony with spicy hints, further on cherry, plum, blackberry, caramel, tobacco, vanilla, leather and cloves. Fresh, tasty, agile on the palate, with a silky tannin structure that harmonises well with all the other components. Tart and complex, with great drinkability and convincing length. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense, sparkling ruby garnet. Opens on the nose with notes of pomegranate, blood orange, tobacco and cranberries. Very polished in attack and course, nice play, fine-meshed tannin, but overall seems a bit frothy, very far from the impetuous power of a Taurasi." Falstaff

"Fresh and elegant, this well-meshed red layers taut, fine tannins with a ripe core of cherry and cranberry puree, a streak of smoke-tinged minerality and accents of tea leaves and woodsy spices that echo on the finish." Wine Spectator

"The Taurasi Riserva Stilèma 2016 is a deeply sensual wine. Swirl the glass to discover the depths of sour cherry and red plum, accompanied by hints of spice cake and a pinch of clove. It is seamlessly silky and smooth, with a textural wave of polished blackberries and currants, underlined by salty minerals. The wine's density is balanced by vibrant acidity, while the chiselled tannins slowly assert themselves. The 2016 finishes with decent length and spicy herbal and acidic citrus nuances. In a very short time, the Taurasi Riserva Stilèma has established itself as one of the top wines in Mastroberardino's portfolio." Vinous

"This is a very refined expression of Aglianico with a clear red fruit character. With air, additional notes of pressed flowers, burnt orange peel and dark chocolate emerge, creating a complex whole. Medium to full body with well integrated tannins and a long finish. Delicious." James Suckling

"Here is another new Riserva to add to the portfolio of Mastroberardino wines. The 2016 Taurasi Riserva Stiléma is a traditional wine, or a reinterpretation of a traditional wine, that pays homage to some of the great bottles of yesteryear with shorter maceration times for moderate phenolic extraction and the use of neutral French and Slavonian oak that emphasise elegance over power. This streamlined and polished wine reveals dark fruits, cardamom, smoked tobacco and tertiary aromas of liquorice and tar that are just beginning to emerge. Despite the wine's age, you can taste the transparency of the fruit: Flesh, skins, stems and all." Wine Advocate

"Elegant and dense, charming and powerful, sophisticated, exciting and highly individual ... A distinctive cuvée of great white varieties with Storage potential." Michael Graf Goëss-Enzenberg, Weingut Manincor

Sophie, an aristocratic Chardonnay with small parts of Viognier, offers a clean, fresh bouquet with notes of apple blossom, citrus and brioche. Also on the palate the precise and classic style with balanced elegance and class. SUPERIORE.DE

"Pale straw yellow with golden reflections. A little restrained on the nose at first, then nuances of tropical fruits, slightly floral in the aftertaste. Fresh and juicy on the palate, drinky and with a fine mouthfeel, fruity and long finish." Falstaff

"Fine and creamy nose with lemon curd, minerals and fresh pineapple. Medium to full-bodied on the palate with bright, zesty acidity and a long, layered finish." James Suckling

"From the Terlano and Caldaro subzones, a Chardonnay with minimal involvement of Viognier and Sauvignon Blanc, notes of apricot, marjoram and orange blossom on the nose with a hint of cedar. The drink is iodine-rich, with a fruity return and floral sensations." Luca Gardini

Fuligni's 2019 Brunello shows balance and symmetry with plenty of primary vigour to ensure longevity in the cellar. The bouquet opens with dark plums, dried raspberries, spices, aniseed and grilled herbs - especially lavender and rosemary. The palate is medium-bodied, beautifully balanced, with a complex weave of fruit, minerals and tannins. It is disempoweringly generous and has a subtle opulence, but never weighs down the palate. The powerful, refined tannins are finely powdered and the penetrating acidity radiates evenly but not obtrusively. Notes of liquorice, violets, blood orange and iron emerge at the end. Long-lasting and effortlessly confident, as you would expect from Fuligni! SUPERIORE.DE

"Pleasant appearance with a nose of black berries and flowers, also tobacco notes; powerful on the palate, the tannins robust, combines character with minerality and elegance. Can mature." Vinum

"Complex, deeply layered bouquet with dark cherry, earthy nuances, blue berries and a reassuringly cool vein. Super juicy palate, incredibly multi-layered with a very juicy vein, linear orientation, super spicy, vinified in the traditional style, lingers forever with herbal, dark fruity and floral notes. One of the best of the tasting!" Weinwisser

"Sparkling ruby-garnet colour with a brightening rim. Aromas of black cherries and blackberries on the nose, very clear, some plums, a hint of leather in the background. Firm, dense tannins, shows a lot of tension and pressure, dark berry fruit on the finish, great development potential." Falstaff

"Ripe, deep ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Slumbering nose with exotic spice notes on the nose. Still in its infancy, but polished with fine-grained tannins that need more time. Long, finely aromatic finish of cherries and raspberries. So supple and elegant and at the same time not unfocussed. Carries its 15 % effortlessly. Real substance, but not heavy." Jancis Robinson

"Rich, refreshing and complex, with flavours of cherry, plum, earth, leather and minerals. This red wine is lively, with notes of liquorice and tamarind. Best of all is the ripe fruit, supple texture and resonant tannins that extend to a white pepper finish." Wine Spectator

"The Fuligni 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is rich in dark fruit, balanced by spicy notes of tobacco leaf and cigar ash, and beautifully concentrated. After a short time, the bouquet reveals a floral intermezzo with dried rose petals and a tropical note of hibiscus. This wine shows many facets, all of which are very pleasant and work together. The tannins are dusty and finely structured with a hint of powdery cocoa on the finish." Wine Advocate

"Dusty and floral, the 2019 Brunello di Montalcino opens with a fragrant blend of dried roses, cherries, mint and lavender candy. On the palate, it is elegant and seamlessly silky, enveloping the senses with ripe red berry fruits contrasted by a bitter hint of cloves. A core of vibrant acidity provides a beautiful balance, while a web of fine tannins saturates the palate and leaves a pleasant sensation of chewiness. The 2019 is classic through and through." Vinous

"This historic and reliable winery does not disappoint in 2019. It is expressive rather than austere and will reveal more with time. But the flavours - a striking fusion of chestnut forest and polished wood with fennel and spiced plums - are already so enticing. It fills the mouth with glossy red berries and pressed violets, and after an initial caress, the tight-knit tannins intensify on the palate and remain balanced in volume. A complex and detailed wine with great depth." Decanter

"Perfumed with aromas of sweet berries, fresh flowers and cedar wood, leading to a medium-bodied palate with firm and chewy tannins and a fresh finish. Very noble and structured. Extremely long. Give it time to open up." James Suckling

"Orthodox in flavour and vinification, a Brunello of intensity and tension. Notes of pomegranate on the nose, with hints of eucalyptus and juniper, then lemon thyme on the finish. Salty, juicy tannins on the finish, with balsamic notes and pomegranate." Luca Gardini

Vigna Paganelli 2016 is a phenomenal achievement and a wine that not only captures the spirit of this equally great vintage, but also the true essence of a very authentic Brunello Riserva. This wine from the single vineyard of the same name is sharp, flawless and impeccable. It starts slowly and shyly, but then blossoms into beautiful intensity and aromatic brilliance. It offers a very authentic and unadulterated interpretation of Sangiovese with aromas of wild berries followed by pressed violets, damp earth, tobacco and lightly toasted spices. The bouquet is seamless and very long-lasting. The same applies to the mouthfeel. The wine offers a fine and silky texture with a good dose of power and personality on the finish. One of the best Riserve of the outstanding 2016 vintage! SUPERIORE.DE

"Promising notes of raspberries, flanked by dried flower aromas and liquorice; the attack is compact, the acidity and tannins skilfully placed, elegant-classic finish. Can still mature." Vinum

"Deep ruby with bricky rim. A little herbal and massive on the nose and still a little closed. Bags of cherry fruit on the palate with lots of juicy acidity stitched together by compact tannins. Very long, layered and impressive. Real Riserva quality." Jancis Robinson

"Sparkling ruby colour with a slightly brightening rim. Very clear and finely characterised nose, aromas of fresh red cherries and fine raspberry. Polished, fine-meshed tannins on the palate, shows lots of juicy fruit, describes a wide range." Falstaff

"The freshness and depth are impressive, with a floral, dark berry and cherry character that develops into a full body with chewy tannins that are polished and solid. Spicy on the finish. Needs time to mellow. Best after 2024." James Suckling

"Cedar, forest floor and new leather aromas come to the forefront along with violet and dried botanical herbs. Full-bodied and enveloping, the savory palate delivers dried cherry, orange zest, licorice and white pepper framed in velvety tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"The estate's oldest parcel, Vigna Paganelli, is a 12-hectare vineyard that was planted in 1964. It has a rich variety of old Sangiovese clones, which are used for the newer plantings. Spiced plums, cured leather and an array of marjoram, tarragon and basil generously entice. Despite its size, it carries its girth with charming ease. The fruit is rich and sweet, while ripe, grainy tannins provide a scaffold. Beneath all these layers, a mineral note emerges. It will be hard to resist when young, but I suspect the complex details will become more apparent with time." Decanter

"A beam of pure cherry permeates this lean, elegant red wine, shaded by floral, mineral, wild herb and orange peel accents. Well-structured and long, it has the balance, grip and intensity for a long life." Wine Spectator

"This is the top wine from Il Poggione, and it is a must for anyone who collects wines from this famous winery. The Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Vigna Paganelli 2016 is a beauty and comes from a top vintage. It stands at the intersection of intensity, elegance and power. The fruit is well-formed and dense, with plenty of blackberry and black cherry, and you also get savoury notes of bonfire ash, tar, liquorice, ferruginous earth and balsamic herbs. Frankly, you get it all, including Brunello's unmistakable power and richness, which are not easy to achieve with such careful balance. The finish is structured, fresh and long, and the longer it lingers in the glass, the more pronounced the leathery and spicy flavours become." Wine Advocate

"A beguiling blend of camphor and minty herbs, along with crushed stone, slowly waft away to reveal dark depths of black raspberry, liquorice, autumnal spices and worn leather as the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Vigna Paganelli unfolds in the glass. Its textures are unexpectedly soft and velvety-smooth, paired with depths of intense red fruit that emerge just before a mix of vibrant acids and tannins that create a tactile and youthfully arresting expression on the final. The palate suffers from the structural weight of the 2016, but still has enough primary concentration to maintain balance, while wild savoury herbs and earthy mineral tones linger for up to a minute. The potential of this wine is unrivalled, but harvestwill need to be very patient." Vinous

"A historic vineyard planted in 1964, an equally reliable vineyard. A Riserva from fermentation in stainless steel, then in French oak barrels, beautiful olfactory profile with raspberry jam, notes of lemon thyme and nutmeg. Iodised tannins on the palate, fruity finish and crispness." Luca Gardini

Beautiful and very well-balanced red wine from the three main historical areas of Montalcino, which have different geoclimatic characteristics due to their different slopes and altitudes, thus ensuring a unique balance between freshness and structure, body and elegance. Ruby red in colour with garnet hues, it opens immediately with a rich, complex nose. Initially dark cherry, chinotto orange and violet. It then opens up to broader, more complex notes of blueberry, vanilla, tobacco, cinnamon and chocolate with a subtle menthol finish. The primary fruit is surrounded by spice, grilled herbs and floral earth; nice length. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red colour. Cherry and tomato leaf on the nose, then a fine leather flavour. Good freshness and juicy fruit on the palate, shows firm body and pressure, accessible, delicately bitter on the final." Falstaff

"Deep ruby red colour. Compact and dense on the nose with notes of sweet raspberries and fresh mint. Lots of sweet raspberry fruit on the palate with a tangy acid nerve that runs through the fullness of the fruit. Firm but ripe and fine-grained tannins. A fairly rich wine, but one that will probably age well." Jancis Robinson

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino exudes hints of wild berries, violet pastille and sweet smoke. This is a seductive effort with juicy acidity and vibrant red and blue fruits swirling throughout. Autumnal spices and dark chocolate slowly saturate towards the finish. The 2019 finishes long yet remarkably fresh with a hint of liquorice and slightly grippy tannins. The 2019 aims to please and will provide early satisfaction after a short stay in the cellar while the single-vineyard wines slowly mature." Vinous

"The Brunello from the Val di Suga vineyard is made up of equal parts from the Vigna del Lago vineyard in the north-east, Poggio al Granchio in the south-east and Vigna Spuntali in the south-west of Montalcino. The bright ruby red colour and youthful freshness are well preserved. Concentrated aromas of red cherry with a hint of pepper fade into deep violet and sweet earth. The medium-bodied palate is appealing and pure, offering layers of lush red berry and plump persimmon flavours underscored by juicy acidity. The sandy textured tannins are supple and yielding. Hard to resist." Decanter

"This lively red wine is smooth and harmonious, with strawberry, cherry and blackcurrant fruit flavours underpinned by mineral and wild herbal notes. Dusty tannins give it grip and texture on the finish. Excellent length." Wine Spectator

"A blend of three vineyards belonging to three different sides of the appellation. Durone di Vignola on the nose, a hint of lemon thyme and clementine peel. Juicy on the palate, with a hint of savoury and balsamic notes. Persistent." Luca Gardini

Brigaldara's Amarone Riserva is a wine born from the desire to interpret Valpolicella in its most original form. The strictly selected grapes that form its basis are chosen from the best vineyards in order to maximise the potential of the estate's own vineyards in Valpolicella.

Garnet red in colour, with aromas of preserved fruit, spices, sour cherries and hints of tobacco and cocoa. Brigaldara's Riserva is a large, concentrated "old-school" Amarone with a good dose of residual sugar and volatile acidity, which give the wine its unmistakable style and lend it plenty of complexity. This uncompromising and rich Amarone hits all the right notes: Mocha, old leather, smoke, tobacco and liquorice are just some of the exciting components of its long, personality-rich and distinctive finish. An energetic wine with a balance between fruit and power, which plays with its class and depth and has secured a place in the appellation's list of best wines thanks to its complex and deep tertiary flavours. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, shining, noble ruby red with a subtly brightening rim. Elegant wood on the nose, ripe berry fruit, dried tomato, comes in several waves, incense, cherries, raspberries, very complex. Very elegant on the palate, with notes of black tea, tightly woven tannins, lots of juiciness and fruit, extremely elegant Amarone with plenty of verve." Falstaff

"Very dark ruby in colour. Interesting, dense and lifted nose of peppery cherry, damson and plum, with a hint of pine and creaminess from what I suspect is oak. Smooth and well balanced. Almost defies its 16%. On the palate, it doesn't come across as bulky, and it has the right amount of supple tannins. A little warmth on the finish, but without the often distracting sweetness that this type of wine usually has." Jancis Robinson

"This wine gracefully combines taut, sculpted tannins with a tarry minerality and a detailed flavour profile of dried cherries, plum jam, tobacco and cocoa nibs. Medium-bodied and silky on the palate, with an orange peel acidity that cleanses the finish." Wine Spectator

"A delicious, liquid Riserva with beautiful dried fruit and nutty, cedar-like influences. Also floral notes and dried peel. Full and silky, with a residue of red, savoury tannin coming through at the end. Very pretty now, but it will age for a long time." James Suckling

"Aromas of black plum and spice cake rise from the glass of this rich and heady Amarone. As the wine progresses, notes of dark chocolate and espresso follow through to dried thyme and violet notes. The rounded and rich tannins provide a structured and straightforward finish, while on the palate the tart red and dried black fruits mingle with sweet spices, leading to an earthy finish." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2013 Amarone della Valpolicella Riserva San Floriano smolders up from the glass with a smoky blend of dried black cherries, blood orange and grilled herbs. This is a perfect mixture of elegance and purity, with silken textures and polished red fruits flowing across a lively stream of acidity. It’s youthfully dense and powerful yet also restrained, finishing with a web of fine-grained tannin that clamps down hard as hints of licorice and sour orange slowly taper off. It will take a good deal of time for the 2013 to come fully into focus, but it will be worth the wait. In 2013, the Riserva hailed entirely from the Case Vecie vineyard." Vinous

This Riserva is only made available each year in very small quantities to hand-picked specialist retailers and top restaurants. Brilliant ruby red colour. Fine raspberry and floral notes dominate the spicy nose. Very juicy on the palate, tannins and acidity are well integrated. Riecines Riserva has length and suppleness right through to the long fruity finish. The elegance and fine melting texture are impressive. Once again, this is Sangiovese at the top level that Riecine is known for! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby colour with garnet-red reflections. A savoury nose with ripe fruit of cranberries and blackberries. Fruity-sweet and juicy on the palate, opens up with a wide arc, powerful, right into the slightly salty final." Falstaff

"Cinnamon and balsamic notes permeate redcurrant with a core of pomegranate and cranberry on the palate. The tannins are quite compact and the acidity is lively, giving an edgy expression in the moment." Decanter

"The 2020 Chianti Classico Riserva is a real stunner with its remarkable depth and textural resonance. Black cherry, spices, mocha and dried herbs are some of the many notes that unfold in the glass. A wine with substance and presence, the 2020 offers plenty of intensity, but is by no means over the top." Vinous

"The 2020 Chianti Classico Riserva has notes of cherry liqueur and sweet crème de cassis on the nose, and the mouthfeel reflects some of the viscous nature of these descriptions. However, this pretty wine also shows depth and varietal clarity, supported by a medium structure." Wine Advocate

"Sandalwood and cherry with some orange peel. Medium body. Fine tannins. Crisp and bright. Lively and delicious. A hint of orange peel and brightness on the finish." James Suckling

"Riserva di Riecine, from a selection of the estate's best plots, clay-limestone soils and pure Sangiovese. On the nose, notes of red cherries, mentholated notes and nutmeg, with hints of eucalyptus. Juicy mouthfeel, with iodised tannins, a fruity, mentholated finish and persistence." Luca Gardini

Feudi's Riserva Piano di Montevergine is only vinified in outstanding years. The wine has a very impressive concentration and great richness. On the nose dark fruit, blackberry, flowers and spices, on the palate elegant, powerful flavours flanked by silky polished tannins and wood aromas. A wine with enormous potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark and brooding, the 2015 Taurasi Riserva Piano di Montevergine slowly awakens in the glass with a captivating blend of menthol, mint and exotic spices that evolves with a vibrant note of cinnamon-dusted currants. Velvety smooth and elegant, this wine seems heavy at first, but is quickly enlivened by a core of vibrant acidity and zesty citrus notes that embellish the tart black fruits. The tannins on the finish are sweet and chalky, while notes of wild red plums and blood oranges keep the taster coming back." Vinous

"Rich ruby red with a slightly lightening rim. In the nose rather restrained at the beginning, then after ripe cranberries, sour cherries and plums, in the reverberation underbrush and tobacco. Powerful and lush on the palate, with polished tannin, finely balanced, has power, long and balsamic final." Falstaff

"Fleshy and vegetal notes on the nose with dried earth and pistachio skin. Also cloves. It is full-bodied with layers of ripe and dried black fruits, cloves, walnuts and smoked meat." James Suckling

"Sourced from the villages of Piano di Montevergine and Taurasi, this Riserva is harvested from relatively young vines aged between 15 and 20 years. Aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, it focuses on graphite minerality and restrained cassis, enhanced by an herbaceous character and wild dark fruits linked by cocoa powder on the nose and palate. The tannins are velvety with tremendous mid-palate extraction and powerful acidity, yet the wine is balanced due to the great fruit concentration. Overall a bold style that will improve with age." Decanter

"This is a great vintage with plenty of spice and smoke. The 2015 is more explosive and the 2016 is more direct, refined and elegant. This wine has great volume in the mouth and is very impressive. Historically the best vintages of this important wine include 1999, 2001, 2010 and 2013." Wine Advocate