Falstaff

In the past, the northern slope of Montalcino was not planted with vines, but was cultivated with cereals, olives and cherries. In this area influenced by the Apennines, the seasons are more pronounced, continental and the north wind significantly lowers the temperature in winter. It is therefore the coldest Brunello region at this time of year, but also the wettest. This northern slope is a gentle hill: a characteristic that is more reminiscent of the Crete Senesi area, right next door, than the two stiffer, steeper and warmer southern slopes of Montalcino.

Due to the climate and the origin of the soil, the grapes in this area of Montalcino are harvested last every year. Vigna del Lago is the vineyard that welcomes all visitors travelling from the north of Montalcino. It takes its name from the lake that surrounds it and which plays a fundamental role in the microclimate of the area; the soil is a constant alternation between clay and strips of very fine Galestro.

Vigna del Lago is a historic cru from the Val di Suga winery, it is an old-school Brunello, from the times before the arrival of barriques and technology. An authentic product that is enjoying increasing demand. Unlike the Poggio al Granchio, which is aged in new Liters French barriques, this wine matures in large 30 and 50-hectolitre Slavonian oak barrels. It is a wine with a low alcohol content, light orange-ruby colour, with very fine and almost imperceptible tannins, with a floral nose of citrus notes, myrtle and fresh cherries. It is a Brunello of great richness and balance and also has a very pleasant lightness, well-contoured acidity and a salty, mineral finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, shiny ruby red colour. Spicy nose of cypress, herbs and red berries, with fine earthy, stony notes. Beautiful juiciness on the palate, clear fruit and tightly woven tannins, cool, with an appealing feel, beautiful salinity on the final." Falstaff

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna del Lago is dark and brooding, with a delicate blend of ashen stones and grilled herbs that segue into dried black cherries. This wine is silky and enveloping, with fresh acidity and vibrant, ripe wild berry flavours that cascade. Lively acidity keeps the energy high, while the 2019 finishes long and spotty but surprisingly juicy, leaving hints of violet pastille over a bed of fine-grained tannins." Vinous

"A delicate style, featuring strawberry, cherry, rose and stony mineral aromas and flavors. Offers an underlying salinity, with light, powdery tannins that cling to the gums on the long, loamy finish." Wine Spectator

"The Vigna del Lago, which surrounds the Val di Suga wine cellar in the north-east of Montalcino, is cooled by northerly winds and bordered by cypress trees. The vines are planted at an altitude of 280 metres on clay soil. This bottling is aged in 40-hectolitre Slavonian oak barrels. The wine is light, dense and still slightly reduced at the moment, opening up with dark cherries and alpine herbs. The fine-boned frame contains cranberries and redcurrants with traces of blood orange and forest roots. Vertical tannins occupy the mid-palate, and the finish is carried by lively, citrusy acidity. This austerity says: wait!" Decanter

"Smells of subtle fruits and flowers with cedar and sandalwood. Medium-bodied with fine tannins and a fresh and fruity finish. All about beautiful, perfectly ripe fruit with an undertone of citrus blossom. Drinkable now, but better in two or three years." James Suckling

A study commissioned by Francesco Ricasoli has shown that there are 19 different types of soil on Brolio. This made it possible to precisely define the sites that are particularly good for Merlot, from which wines with a unique structure and unmistakable flavour emerge. With the 2018 vintage, Francesco Ricasoli is now presenting the "new" Casalferro, whose grapes come from the three different vineyards Vigna Casalferro, Vigna Pecchierino and Vigna Sodacci. Although the production volume has been drastically reduced, the result is impressive!

A Tuscan Merlot as it is written in the book. On the nose, complex aromas of dark red fruit, delicate cedar wood, leather, very spicy. Initially taut and dense on the palate, it opens up as it progresses and expands with impressive elegance. The interplay between bouquet and complexity on the palate is perfectly balanced and its impressive size is already unmistakable. This Merlot will have a great future. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich ruby red with a garnet-red rim. Fresh sour cherries and plums on the nose, with violets and a touch of coriander in the background. Fruity and juicy on the palate, with well-integrated tannins and a long final." Falstaff

"A rich, dark expression of Merlot, this red walks the fine line between austerity and generosity, with the latter gaining prominence over the course of the fine finish. Dense, with the tight texture working in tandem with black cherry, blackberry, iron and spice flavours." Wine Spectator

"The Barone Ricasoli 2019 Casalferro showcases its potential in a classic vintage. The DNA of the wine, which is made exclusively from Merlot, is characterised by the grape variety, but the terroir also plays a major role in this presentation. You know you're drinking a wine from Tuscany thanks to a delicate bundle of flavours that includes wild cherry, violet fruit, violets and spices. This wine gives an Italian personality to a French grape variety." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Casalferro is magnificent. Ripe dark cherry and plum fruit, liquorice, spice, new leather, menthol and mocha are combined in a generous, lush Merlot that offers much of the vibrancy of a Chianti Classico." Vinous

"Blueberry, plum and red and black berry scents mingle with wildflowers, spices and a hint of roasted coffee beans. Stony and sapid in the mouth, it's all about elegance with beautiful cool blue fruits accompanied by a touch of creaminess on the mid-palate, then a long, super-fresh and poised finish." Decanter

"Super flavours of fresh violets, black olives, crushed raspberries and blackberries. Also a hint of dried flowers. Full-bodied but compact and polished, with superbly crafted tannins that compress the palate and give it a velvety texture. Taut and concentrated. The most precise and refined Casalferro ever. It needs at least three or four years to show what it's made of, but it has great potential. Best from 2026 onwards." James Suckling

"Produced for the first time not only with the best grapes from the vineyard of the same name, but also with contributions from the Pecchierino and Sodacci vineyards, this is a pure Merlot of stature with intense aromas of blueberries, currants and balsamic herbs on the nose. The flavour is elegant and spectacularly clean. Salty and spicy tannins, excellent drinkability." Luca Gardini

Since the 2016 vintage, Livio Felluga's top wine Sossò has been maturing in the bottle for an extra year before being released for sale. This Riserva is a beautiful, rich and comforting red wine that is dense on the palate, imparting pretty cherry and dark fruit flavours with plenty of spice and tobacco. The extremely articulate flavour shoulders a convincing tannin portion and yet steers into an intensely fruity final with terrificlength. The wine simply glides forward with its unique feel and a dynamism that is slow and long-lasting. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich ruby red colour with a dark core. Pleasant aromas of plums, blackcurrant, blackberry, cloves and cedar on the nose. Fresh fruit on the palate, present fine-meshed tannins and a powerful final." Falstaff

"A medium-bodied red wine with plum and chocolate flavours and an underlying walnut character. Juicy and spicy." James Suckling

Ceretto's Barolo Bussia comes from one of the most famous cru sites bordering the municipalities of Monforte d'Alba and Barolo, sourcing its Nebbiolo fruit from a 7,000 square metre plot in Bussia Soprana in Monforte d'Alba. Just 3,500 1/1 bottles and 200 magnums are bottled.

Sparkling, bright garnet red colour. On the nose, it seduces with delicate notes of wild berries, white cherry, liquorice and truffle. The palate is explosive, lively and full of energy. Its rich and lively flavours of cranberry and pomegranate are very finely elaborated, its sweetness in the middle of the palate and the fine creaminess and fine-meshed tannin, which is characteristic of the best Bussia-Barolos, are impressive. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant medium ruby red colour. More concentration and depth with a clear, mineral core and concentrated but embryonic fruit. On the palate, a fantastic tannic centre with raspberry fruit wrapped in fine, firm tannins. Long and sensationally balanced." Jancis Robinson

"A fine and open Bussia with a smoky, grilled meat and spice character in the plum fruit. Medium to full body. Soft, velvety and juicy. This wine will develop into something very serious. Needs three or four years to open up. Best after 2025." James Suckling

"The Barolo Bussia 2019 is rich, deep and explosive, with all the profound, spicy and balsamic notes that are so typical of Bussia. Bussia is a broad, lush Barolo that is impressive from start to finish. All the elements are very well balanced. There is plenty of tannin, but it is well integrated into the wine. After some time in the glass, the wine reveals its inner perfume and explosive energy. This aromatically beguiling, multi-layered Barolo is magnificent." Vinous

"The Ceretto 2019 Barolo Bussia is an organic wine and a wine of beautiful depth and streamlined intensity. This Barolo offers aromas of dark fruit, but also of crushed stone, rust, a hint of exotic spices or grilled herbs and fresh liquorice root. The ensemble is beautiful, and what stands out most is the polished persistence and silky texture of the mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

"Bright ruby red colour with a delicately brightening rim. Expressive and clear nose of raspberries, cedar wood and some cold smoke, with a candied citrus fruit finish. Compact and tightly woven on the palate, with great tension and rich pressure, lots of salt, great length!" Falstaff

"The elegant nose opens with pristine cherry aromas supported by subtle notes of clove, anise, rosewood and tea. The focused palate continues to highlight ripe cherries and evolves into savory elements. Well-crafted tannins and crunchy acidity give the wine vigor and lift. The wine is generous, rich and superbly balanced." Wine Enthusiast

Powerful, very attractive exceptional wine. Smells of strawberry and cherry, spices and a hint of leather. Tastes juicy, very special and impresses with taut tannin and persistent length. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, rich ruby with a fine garnet shimmer. Appealing, intense nose with notes of plums, wild raspberry, underlaid with delicate cinnamon. Lots of juicy cherry fruit on the palate, opens with fine, grippy tannin, clear and smooth, firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"The nose shows real elegance and spice and subtle notes of dried herbs. Such firm tannins that are backed up by wonderful fresh acidity. The palate has a light peppery note and seems to glide over the palate, stopping only to tickle the roof of your mouth. Savoury and sapid, extremely impressive." Jancis Robinson

"This is suave and expands on the palate, with cherry, black currant, mineral and woodsy underbrush notes. Shows purity to the fruit, along with support from the fine-grained tannins and lively acidity. Excellent length." Wine Spectator

"A blend of Sangiovese, Canaiolo and Colorino from three far-removed vineyard parcels in different areas of Tuscany, the 2016 Colore is something of a pan-Tuscan wine. This ambitious wine gives voice to three of the region's most important red grape varieties as well as its most diverse territories (Lamole in Chianti Classico, Vincigliata near Florence and Siena province in the southern part of Tuscany). As a result, this is a statement wine with a lot to say to those careful enough to listen. It's important to be attentive to the details, the small berry fruit aromas that intermingle with nuances of spice, granite stone and pressed blue flower. Pure summer cherry is the dominant aroma on first nose, but it slowly disintegrates as the wine takes on more air to reveal those lighter and more delicate aromas at the back. This vintage offers an ideal dose of structure matched against freshness. Bibi Graetz tells me that fruit in 2015 was beautiful, perfect to look at. Fruit in 2016, however, appeared more sculpted with more darkness and weight. On some level, those descriptions also apply to the character of these two gorgeous back-to-back vintages." Wine Advocate

"The aromas are always so complex with cherries, blackberries, rosemary, sage and spice. Full-bodied, very tight and polished with a dense and powerful palate, which opens and grows, yet remains agile and beautiful. A solid red. Wonderful segue from the 2015. Try after 2022." James Suckling

With the fruit-driven, round and almost perfect in all components 2015 vintage, the Riserva of Poggio di Sotto climbs new spheres. It is not only an enormously classic representative of the appellation, but it also presents that certain little bit more of all components, which makes it a very great wine and makes it stand out from the sea of very good 2015s. On the nose and palate, an inspiring potpourri of primary and secondary fruit. From cherry, crème de cassis, tar, liquorice and balsamic herbal spice to perfectly integrated tannin and a refined cedar component, we find everything here that makes a highly complex red. A classic that could not be more perfect. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, brightening ruby-garnet. Finely marked nose with distinct notes of ripe raspberries, juicy, fresh cherries and a hint of leather. Very impressive on the palate, fine, slightly grippy tannin in many layers characterises the wine, embedded in fine melting, ripe red berry fruit, firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"Extremely perfumed with black-cherry, plum and red-cherry aromas that follow through to a full body with very fine, pretty tannins that follow through to a flavorful finish. Pretty balance and refinement. All about finesse." James Suckling

"Poggio Di Sotto's 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is undeniably elegant and feminine, impressing with an alluring bouquet which mixes spiced black cherry with hints of sage, mint, dried roses and white smoke. It enters the palate soft, lifted and youthfully understated, cascading bright red fruits laced with minerals across a core of stimulating acids as nuanced tannins slowly build. An air of red currant, licorice and inner florals linger, as the 2015 Riserva flexes its structural muscle throughout the cheek-puckering finale. This will require quite a bit of cellaring to fill out and settle down, yet is sure to be worth the wait. I followed the 2015 Riserva over the course of four days and it never declined." Vinous

"There’s a leafy underbrush element to this red, punctuating the cherry, strawberry and earth flavors. Compact for now, yet balanced, with a taut, reserved finish. Offers tension and suppleness, with plenty in reserve." Wine Spectator

"The Poggio di Sotto 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva shows extra muscle definition, power and heady layers of rich fruit. This is all in line with the personality of the vintage, which was sunny and warm with golden sunlight throughout the summer season. This wine stands out for its fine-gained texture, which is smooth and polished. This Riserva offers aromas of cherry and blackberry and shows the depth that you should expect of a classic Riserva bottling." Wine Advocate

Deep dark ruby. Opulent nose of red berries, pleasant smoky notes and fine herbal spice. Opulent and round on the palate, the fine tannins give the wine a delicate but definite structure and the necessary seriousness until the long, soft finish. The well-integrated wood and the fruit of the Cabernet grape find an exciting symbiosis with the rather strict and taut Petit Verdot style in a very harmonious way. SUPERIORE.DE

"This blend comes from the Maremma and already shows the generosity of the local landscape in the aroma. Wonderfully juicy dark cherries and morello cherries blend skilfully with chocolate and smoky, dark-roasted notes. Elegant in the mouth, the fruit is precise and finely contoured despite its concentration, the grippy, fine-pored and noble tannin and the juicy acidity wonderfully embrace the meltingly dense body, and a fine dark chocolate flashes in the final. Weinwisser

"Rich ruby red. In the nose of ink, graphite, noble wood, then blackberry and truffle. On the palate with great, polished and clear fruit, spreads out nicely, dense and elegant, radiant, stays long." Falstaff

"The 2018 Ilatraia is a heady, potent wine that captures all of the natural density of Maremma. A blast of black plum fruit, chocolate, dried herbs, licorice and copious French oak lends notable exuberance. Ilatraia doesn't quite have the open-knit charm of most Bolgheri reds, likely because of the booming structure of Petit Verdot and its formidable tannic clout. Even so, there is plenty to like, especially for readers who enjoy big Tuscan wines." Vinous

"Fresh and juicy, this red combines density with finesse, offering plum and black cherry flavors that ply the grainy texture, while vibrant acidity keeps this focused and long. Floral, mineral and rosemary accents chime in as this stays persistent." Wine Spectator

"This is a seriously gorgeous wine, seriously. The Brancaia 2018 Ilatraia impresses from the start, thanks to the wonderful intensity and clarity of its dark fruit, spice and delicately toasted aromas. This full-bodied wine does a terrific job of presenting an Italian or clearly Mediterranean side of the blend with rosemary, dried lavender bud and some of the warm earthy aromas that remind me of walking through a grove of chestnut trees in the fall. This offers a twofold punch of power and elegance." Wine Advocate

"Blackberries and currants with some violet and walnut undertones. Medium-to full-bodied with firm, polished tannins that show balance and focus. Stone and mahogany. Just a hint of chocolate. Racy and fine." James Suckling

Here, excellence of man and nature come together with perfect precision and harmony. Powerful cherry and blackberry notes are followed by crushed minerals, liquorice, smoke and lightly scented cedar. Spreads evenly across the palate and its flavour intensity, power and volume last for minutes. The exquisite 2015 Cerretalto is concentrated and rich, but never too heavy or dense. It is a highly compelling Italian icon with the truly exciting world of perceived unlimited possibilities still ahead of it. We can be more than excited ... SUPERIORE.DE

"Shiny, rich ruby garnet. Opens with light spicy notes, some cardamom seeds, then lots of crisp, dark cherry, mulberry, light truffle note in the background. Fans out broadly on the palate, lots of ripe, juicy fruit, opens up on the back end with tight, precise tannin, exceedingly long, savoury and gripping, a definite long runner!" Vinous

"The 2015 Casanova di Neri Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto is remarkably fresh and balanced despite its large-scale persona. Minty herbs give way to raspberry and cherry with exotic spices and a hint of pine resin. It boasts depths of silky textures; yet it remains juicy and full of energy, displaying ripe red and black fruits, laced with salty minerals, as hints of cinnamon and baker's chocolate form toward the close. Fine tannins come forward on the finish, tugging at the cheeks, yet all under an air of sweet spice and violet florals. As young as this is today, it's hard to put the glass down, and I can only imagine the depths that will be revealed with five or more years of cellaring." Vinous

"Wild rosemary, thyme and juniper aromas and flavors frame the core of black cherry in this supple red. Firmly built, shows refined tannins embraced by the bright fruit. Very expressive and approachable now, yet should continue to improve." Wine Spectator

"Of these new releases from this benchmark estate, the Casanova di Neri 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto is my favorite wine. This Riserva is larger than life with ripe fruit, raspberry, cherry, spice, cola, root beer, mesquite and cedar. The wine offers a flashy and generous quality of fruit that unfolds over time with a multifaceted and multi-layered presentation. One thing that stands out here is the acidity that is bracing and tart at first but then succumbs to an important supporting role, rendering lasting freshness and persistence to the finish. With time, you get a flash of cherry and crème de cassis that seals the deal." Wine Advocate

"This is a momentous wine with incredible power and structure that has so much minerality and crushed-stone character to the black cherries and blueberries. Full-bodied and tannic, yet the tannins are layered and polished with a glorious, creamy and juicy texture that coats your mouth. It goes on for minutes. Incredible wine." James Suckling

Piccolomini's single-vineyard Brunello Vigna di Pianrosso 2017 comes from a south-western site of the Castelnuovo dell'Abate subzone at an altitude of about 300 metres. It is beautiful and delicate from the start and spontaneously impresses with its vitality, depth and balance. Compared to the basic Brunello, the wine matures for another year in oak barrels and you can feel the added spice on the nose. Rich spices, leather and tar are followed by dark fruits, plum, blackberry and cassis. The finish is graceful and silky, its length is impressive. SUPERIORE.DE

"Ripening, quite dark red; ripe fruit notes, dried figs, appealing; round approach, fullness, fruit ripeness, juicy, long, pleasant tartness, pleasing." Merum

"Seductive fruity nose with notes of wild flowers and spices, spiced up with notes of maquis and tobacco; polished on the palate, the tightly woven tannin and accentuated acidity in perfect balance, the finish exceedingly elegant and long as an oak. Superbly made and with potential." Vinum

"The CruWein has one more gear than the Annata. Multifaceted bouquet with wonderfully fresh ethereal notes, earthy hints as well as refined grilled aromas that remind us a little of red peppers, behind which leathery and herbaceous as well as floral nuances emerge, reminiscent of rose petals and violets. Finesse-rich palate with fresh, juicy fruit expression at the core, skilfully framed by fine polished tannin, wonderfully fresh and gripping, elegant style, with dark, ethereal spicy notes on the long final. Bravo!" Weinwisser

"Brightening, sparkling garnet red. Opens with emphatically fragrant notes, of fresh dark cherries, some rosehip, fine rose petals, amazingly fresh notes. Round and supple on the attack, opens with beautifully ripened fruit notes, grippy tannin, very well placed." Falstaff

"A nuanced, delicate bouquet of dried strawberries, roses, hints of sweet spice and crushed rocks lifts up from the charming 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Pianrosso. This is remarkably lifted, yet juicy and energetic, as ripe red berries and minerals cascade across the palate. It leaves a coating of violet-tinged florals, along with persistent raspberry and cherry tones. The tannin management here is absolutely stunning, as the Pianrosso finishes structured yet vividly fresh." Vinous

"This is a beautifully crafted and polished Brunello for this vintage, with full body and creamy, lightly chewy tannins. Dark berries, walnuts and cedar with dried-flower undertones. Needs time to soften, but very pretty. Drink after 2024." James Suckling

"The Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Pianrosso shows nice balance and elegance, and it definitely shows the deft hand of the winemaking team in what was not an easy vintage by any stretch. This pretty wine delivers lots of fresh cherry and wild rose, with ferrous earthy, licorice and grilled herb; I also get bay leaf and rosemary sprig. Like the annata 2017 Brunello produced by this estate, the single-vineyard Brunello Pianrosso is distinguished by a sweet cherry note that accompanies the wine from start to finish." Wine Advocate

When the world-famous Oenologist Carlo Ferrini makes his own wine, you can't help but be excited. Here, he has succeeded in creating an interpretation of Sangiovese that brings all his experience from decades of working with this grape variety to the fore as if through a burning glass. The moderate use of wood through ageing in 700-litre tonneaux expresses the clarity and personality of the grape and the unique terroir (there are just 1.5 hectares of the best Brunello sites) in an archetypal way.

Expressive and full of character, the 2019 vintage shows concentration and structure with notes of red plums, wild strawberries, cedar wood pieces, mandarin juice, lemon peel, chopped ginger and celery. Wild thyme and marjoram form the background, but it is the character of fresh cherries, rose petals and grapefruit that gives the range grace and authenticity. Medium-bodied, perfectly ripe tannins of commendable beauty and an honest, subtle, enveloping finish. Exciting in the sip, you want to drink it, drink it and drink it again. Elegance and perfection - a divine wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"Carlo Ferrini's Brunello has long been one of the top wines of the appellation. Carlo Ferrini, who normally advises numerous wineries in Tuscany and beyond, has created his own masterpiece here. Complex bouquet, elegant, full of finesse with a subtle souplesse. A marvellous liaison of floral notes and rather red berry fruits is revealed: red plum, red currant and pomegranate, a touch of orange. You can already sense the freshness and that it was harvested à point. Everything is very complex and interwoven with fine Sangiovese fruit. Very precise and yet intense, with a creamy, melting body and silky tannins, it continues on the palate, very distinguished and noble." Weinwisser

"Bright, elegant ruby violet colour. The nose is expressive, inviting, with rich fruit, deep cherry, blood orange, a hint of ripe raspberry, rosehip, very complex and inviting, high elegance, Burgundian. Juicy on the palate, polished, with clear fruit, harmonious, comes in many layers, enormous elegance and finesse, juicy and with excellent drinking flow." Falstaff

"An effusive red, with vivid cherry and raspberry fruit that's pure and tangy, courtesy of the vibrant acidity, while mineral and herb accents add depth as this builds on the finish. This is structured too, with well-integrated tannins that sneak up on the firm, long-lasting aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 vintage, which was harvested in mid-September, is Giodo's 11th release - and the best yet. It seduces with breathtaking aromas of gardenia, pimento flowers and strawberries, accompanied by fennel and subtle wood smoke. This immediate appeal is enhanced on the palate, where the flavours linger in the mouth - it's like biting into the freshest persimmon. Crisp yet lush with deep substance, the finely powdered, gracefully assertive tannins give the wine shape, while blood orange permeates the long finish." Decanter

"This wine comes from a three-hectare plot with 19-year-old vines that are obsessively tended and cared for. This amphitheatre-shaped parcel called La Poderina is located deep in the forest on a steep slope with a view of Monte Amiata in the distance. The soils are white in colour and contain a lot of rock. This wine is of great depth and dimension, with vibrant energy, elegant balsamic notes and sweet ripe fruit. The medium-bodied fruit is well balanced with the wine's acidity and fine tannins. It finishes with floral notes of violets and iris." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of cedar wood, earth, tree bark, fruit tea, black tea and cherries. Then fresh and dried flowers come in. Medium to full body that grows on the palate, with excellent fine tannins that run the length of the wine. It is structured and powerful with great length. The balance between acidity and tannin is incredible. Very clear and transparent. What a wine. Drinkable, but better in three or four years." James Suckling

"Taut and clean on the nose, with fine aromas of red plum, a hint of peony, salty nuances and a hint of black olive, with balsamic and medicinal herbs on the finish. The flavour is rich and elegant, with tannins that blend well with the fresh, spicy component. The finish is slightly citrusy, a great personality." Luca Gardini

When the world-famous Oenologist Carlo Ferrini makes his own wine, you can't help but be excited. Here, he has succeeded in creating an interpretation of Sangiovese that brings all his experience from decades of working with this grape variety to the fore as if through a burning glass. The moderate use of wood through ageing in 700-litre tonneaux expresses the clarity and personality of the grape and the unique terroir (there are just 1.5 hectares of the best Brunello sites) in an archetypal way. A great harmony of dark cherries, black fruits, spices, leather and tobacco, ideally integrated tannins and great persistence will quickly make the few thousand bottles a sought-after collector's item. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, medium-dense ruby-garnet colour. Opens with notes of blood orange, fresh plum, black cherry, some rose petal in the background. Juicy and compact on the attack and on the palate, shows plenty of dense tannins, builds up in layers, dark cherry fruit, savoury pressure on the final." Falstaff

"Medium to deep ruby red colour. Closed nose with a hint of Moroccan leather. Rich, tangy cherry with a hint of oak and polished but firm tannins. Very seductive and with the typical signature of Ferrini - the eternal suave. Long, but not quite open yet, and the tannins still need to dissolve a little into the fruit. Shows real potential and promise and is not uninteresting." Jancis Robinson

"For Carlo Ferrini, who normally advises numerous wineries in Tuscany and beyond, 2018 was a classic year. His Brunello is one of the shooting stars. The wine opens elegantly and full of finesse with red and dark blue fruit as well as a wonderful black cherry flavour and floral nuances. Wonderfully juicy on the palate with a fresh fruit presence. Subtly interwoven with delicate hints and the noble cedar notes of the wooden barrel ageing. Very precise yet intense with good concentration for the vintage and extremely silky, grippy tannins." Weinwisser

"Notes of farmyard, caramel, wood, cedar and toast on the nose. Vibrant sweet strawberry and red berry fruit on the palate, a hint of spiciness, bitterness and a creamy feel from the tannins. I like the gentle saltiness - wet stone and salt gracing the palate, and the sweetness with acidity that keeps everything so buoyant and cheerful. An extremely elegant expression, smooth, balanced and complete." Decanter

"Flavours of black cherries, violets, lavender and orange peel follow through to a medium to full body with ultra-fine tannins that run the length of the wine. So focussed and radiant. Agile and weightless on the finish. Not the greatest Giodo, but beautiful and precise." James Suckling

"Tasted at the Giodo estate in one of the most remote and beautiful areas of the appellation, surrounded by forests and sweeping panoramas, the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino gives us a promising taste of what we can expect from this warm vintage. The wine offers ripe but delicate flavours of cassis and dark cherries with nuances of lilac, violets and crushed limestone. The tannins are present and well integrated. Carlo Ferrini's Brunello promises a long ageing period." Wine Advocate

"The nose brings an umami sanguinity, with notes of tar, petrol and soil, but undertones of black cherries and blackberries make those aromas invigorating rather than harsh. The fruit ripens on the palate, but a slow-developing, spiced earthiness works with deliberate tannins and latent acid to maintain propriety." Wine Enthusiast

"The great project of the Ferrini family from Sant'Angelo in Colle, a Brunello characterised by constant excellence. Intense on the nose, with aromas of cranberry, fresh pepper leaf and blood orange peel, with earthy notes. Spicy sip, fruity and citrusy finish." Luca Gardini

Deep dark velvety ruby red. Opulent bouquet of sour cherry, mulberry, some damp leaves and laurel. In addition, the typical Neri spice of wood, tobacco and broom. On the palate, an open-hearted fruit paired with the precision of a monumental Brunello frame, which, along with fine sweetness, keeps the balance with the taut acidic nerve and leads into an almost endless finish. A classy wine, the likes of which we rarely see in the glass. SUPERIORE.DE

"Seductive nose with a potpourri of fruity, floral and spicy notes, cinnamon and plums above all; accurately balanced acidity and tightly knit tannins on the palate, well-dosed mineral nuances, ends promisingly on notes of wild berries, leather and liquorice. Excellent Brunello that can even improve with maturity." Vinum

"Very noble nose, exotic perfumed woods, sandalwood, cigar box, lots of iodine and iron, cool pepper and juniper notes, blue berries; super fine grip on the palate, pressure without heaviness." Meiningers Sommelier

"Sparkling, intense ruby with a slight garnet shimmer. Complex and appealing nose, intense dark, ripe cherry, some plum, then also notes of slate and liquorice. Powerful and mighty on the palate, reveals itself with lots of dense tannin, interwoven, lots of present fruit, rich pressure on the final." Falstaff

"Deep luminous ruby-red. Spicy red cherry and mineral nuances on the nose and in the mouth. Enters fresh and juicy with noteworthy flesh and size to the red and blue fruit flavors, then suave and refined all the way onto the long refined finish. Closes with youthfully chewy tannins and a tactile mouthfeel offering hints of flinty minerals and raspberry. A brooding giant that is extremely elegant and refined. Very well done." VINOUS

"There’s a lot in this wine, in terms of complexity, that is all underpinned by concentrated, ripe and assertive red cherries. The oak is nicely placed and there’s a sense of purpose and build on the palate that really sets it apart. High-class tannins." James Suckling

"Youthful-looking mid ruby. Dark fruit with impressive depth and with a hint of gingerbread. Lovely, tangy dark-cherry fruit and loads of powdery tannins that are a little demanding right now. Needs much more age." Jancis Robinson

"This intense version is concentrated, with black cherry, blackberry, graphite, tobacco and spice flavors, yet remains light-footed due to the racy profile. Structured, yet beautifully balanced and youthful. Shows purity and length on the aftertaste, which introduces a floral component." Wine Spectator

"There are a handful of wines in Italy that make me nervous before I taste them because my expectations are so high. This is one of those wines. Indeed, previous editions of Cerretalto have earned the coveted 100 point score, and I am astutely aware of the pedigree and potential that comes forth with each new vintage. As enthusiastic as my assessment of the 2013 Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto is, I'm stopping short of that perfect score. This vintage is something of a moving target with wines that are beautiful, without a doubt, yet the growing conditions were not even across the appellation, and achieving optimal tannic management posed a challenge to many producers. If I were to make any criticism of this wine, it would fall along those lines. That aside, this is a beautiful Brunello that boasts deep intensity and bold black fruit flavors that are plummy and rich. Spice, toasted oak and tobacco frame that primary fruit. Cerretalto ages in oak for 30 months and that strong imprint has added to the structure, depth and contemporary character of this A-list Brunello. That oak imprint is also reinforced in the wine's tannins. There's no doubt that this wine needs more cellar aging. I would absolutely not suggest drinking it within the next five years. Any awkwardness it shows now should iron itself out with more bottle time." Wine Advocate

Concerto was born in 1981, a time of dynamic change in Italian viticulture. The previously untapped potential was recognised and experiments were made with new grape varieties and, for the first time, successfully with international grape varieties. Produced from 80% Sangiovese and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, the Rosso Toscana Concerto was one of the pioneers of the later phenomenon of the Supertuscans and was one of the region's elite wines for a long time.

Intense, bright ruby red colour. Rich bouquet of redcurrant, cherry, spices and a delicate hint of vanilla. Endless fruit on the palate, dense and full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a very subtle acid wire in the background. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2019 Concerto (18.5/20) was already an excellent success last year, and the 2020 has now gone one better! It consists of 80 % Sangiovese, aged in large wooden barrels and 20 % Cabernet Sauvignon, which was matured in barriques. The Concerto 2020 is darker in colour than its predecessor. On the nose, it has a more massive fruit and fullness, with dark berry and cherry flavours, youthful, expansive, expansive and fleshy. It is also much more open than the reductive 2019 a year ago, with a balsamic sweetness and plenty of Amarena accents, dense, fiery and lively on the nose. Rich and full-bodied, very fleshy and compact, it has enormous density and differentiated depth. Its structure and extraction are perfectly balanced, with great juiciness, freshness and intensity. Eternally long, powerful and polished, this terrific Concerto is already accessible and supple. But will grow with maturity." Weinwisser

"Brilliant dark ruby red colour. Very spicy on the nose, dark berries, plums, wild berries, some saddle, pepper, with a finish of ripe Amarena cherries. Tightly interwoven on the palate with clear fruit and a juicy undertone, swings along beautifully, crisp tannins, beautifully balanced and harmonious, juicy again on the final." Falstaff

"This rich yet taut red is marked by a beam of black cherry and black currant fruit, with oak spice, earth and wild Mediterranean herb accents. Compact, dusty finish." Wine Spectator

"Aromas of tobacco and black cedar fruit lead to a bright and focused palate full of concentrated red and black fruit that has great balance and structure for long aging. A finish of herbal bitters and pomegranate adds depth and interest to this youthful, good value red wine." Decanter

"The Mazzei 2020 Concerto di Fonterutoli is a blend of 80% Sangiovese and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon from a cool vineyard at an altitude of 350 metres. It is surrounded on three sides by dense woodland. The role of the forest, especially in the Chianti hills, is increasingly appreciated in view of the hot summers and climate change. This wine remains concentrated and dense with notes of wild berries, blackcurrants, grilled herbs, spices and dark minerals. There is plenty of sweet fruit on the palate, followed by well-integrated, dry tannins." Wine Advocate

"The Concerto di Fonterutoli 2020 is bright and powerful, with a great freshness and many nuances. Plum, pomegranate, spices, new leather and blood orange are in the foreground. The 2020 is a great wine that captures the essence of the house style beautifully. Today, the purity of the fruit literally leaps out of the glass. Outstanding." Vinous

"The nose balances the peppery, toasty smokiness of grilled meats with a juicy swirl of black cherries and chocolate. On the palate, this balance continues and is emphasised by a strong undertone of spice and salt, while polished tannins and integrated acidity provide cohesion." Wine Enthusiast

The Paesaggio Inatteso selection comes from Camigliano's 3.5-hectare vineyard "La Magia", which has mineral and calcareous soils. The 2015 edition presents itself more robust and intense than the classic Annata of the house. Bright ruby red. On the nose cherry, raspberry, spice and tobacco aromas, on the palate taut, precise and full of personality. The tannins are soft and well integrated, making it an opulent, powerful and long-lasting pleasure even when young. SUPERIORE.DE

"Aromas of crisp wild berries and violets, underscored by balsamic notes; precise texture with cut and length. Classically noble Sangiovese." Vinum

"Elegant, brilliant ruby garnet. Very fresh and fruity nose, of juicy, freshly plucked cherries, some raspberry and pomegranate. Round and smooth in the base and flow, shows also in the mouth a lot of present berry fruit, polished tannin." Falstaff

"Good dark red. Perfumed red cherry, raspberry and mint on the nose, plus hints of potpourri. Clean flavors of red fruits and spices show a restrained sweetness and a creamy mouthfeel on the long back end. Offers greater delineation and increasing pliancy with air." Vinous

"Enticing flavors of black cherry, plum, iron, leather, earth and tobacco mark this red. Dense tannins and bright acidity lay down structural support. Tips toward the dry side in the balance despite the persistent finish." Wine Spectator

"The purity and focus to this young Brunello is certainly impressive with crushed berries and flowers, as well as burnt orange peel on the nose. Full body. Firm and silky tannins with an intense backbone and focus. A seriously structured and balanced red. Drink after 2022." James Suckling

"This wine sees fruit from a three-hectare site (at 300 meters above sea level) with loamy sand soils. This is a very special wine with a unique set of aromas. It shows pronounced Mediterranean accents of rosemary, lavender and dried basil leaf. The wine's fruit profile is also front and center with wild berry and dried cassis. The mouthfeel is silky, lean and topped off by well integrated tannins." Wine Advocate

A monument of wine! Brilliant dark ruby colour. Fresh, silky, elegant - and majestic. Blackberry jam, violets, bittersweet chocolate, plus crushed rock and minerality. An opulent wine with fabulously polished tannins and considerable ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red colour, rich. Initially a nose of cinnamon sticks, ripe blackberries, dark chocolate, wild berry jam, precious wood, dried violet blossom, very complex. Very polished on the palate, with an oily, great texture, comes in many layers, concentrated and yet not opulent, finishing on fine coconut, will mature excellently, infinitely long." Falstaff

"The Amarone della Valpolicella Monte Lodoletta 2016 takes the intensity of the wine to an almost unimaginable level. This is the magic of this winery, and without a doubt this wine occupies a category that makes it completely unique in the Italian wine scale. In this classic vintage, the wine is even richer, more powerful and more concentrated. This general intensity is also transferred to the tightly wound and firm tannins. Black fruits, baked plums, tobacco, soya sauce, grilled herbs and sweet spices are generously embedded in the wine's full-bodied texture." Wine Advocate

"The 2016, which was released after the 2017 vintage because it was decided that this dense and concentrated vintage would benefit from more time in the bottle, is fuller and broader in the shoulders than the 2017 Amarone. It has more of everything - body, concentration, tannin, richness, spice... And although it has a reduced note of petrol, its flavours are still very lively, carrying hints of wild black fruits and balsam from the glass. Already tantalising, its future looks very bright." Decanter

"The 2016 Amarone della Valpolicella is a sleeping giant, beckoning with dried violets, dusty blackcurrants, shaved cedar and a hint of mint. This wine is supple and cool to the touch, yet intense and savoury at its core, with an abundance of mineral-tinged dark red fruits and balsamic tones supported by a core of zesty acidity. The 2016 finishes tannic and long, firmly gripping the palate and leaving a bitter primary concentration that lingers. This wine is still a baby today and needs good cellaring, but its potential is obvious." Vinous

Rennina 2015 builds up on the palate in several layers: sensual fruit, paired with multi-layered impressions of forest soil, spices and tanned leather. On the palate it is soft and yet powerful, yet balanced, with an impeccable structure, underpinned by harmonious acidity, and with an extract sweet, almost feminine finish. Very appealing and a perfect reflection of a perfect vintage with the corresponding potential for the next decade. SUPERIORE.DE

"Astringent, firmly knitted, somewhat dried vegetable to tobacco and a little woody aroma of ripe, partly preserved black and red berries with a little dried herbs, plums, minerality and almost fleshy tones. Very firm in the mouth, ripe, juicy berry and cherry fruit, very slightly plummy tones, nutty and moderately woody tones, a little tobacco and tar, present, ripe, still very youthful tannin, dense and persistent on the palate, deep, multi-layered, yet hardly developed, restrained power, a little cocoa and pepper in the background, much melting, but also grip, compact build, very good to long, firm, tart finish with salty and smoky tones." Wein-Plus

"lush ruby with a slight garnet tinge. Rich and intense nose of plums and blackberries, some liquorice. Deep and powerful at the beginning, opens with present, dense tannin, in the final firm pressure." Falstaff

"Tasted blind. Deep ruby with bright orange tinges. Subdued, brooding, perfumed dark fruit with hints of pine. Eye-catching sweet-sour cherry fruit and juicy acidity with the tannins adding considerable muscle." Jancis Robinson

"The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Rennina is dark and powerful in the glass, slowly opening with a display of crushed stone, cedar, mint, and a dusting of cumin, as its dark red fruits begin to unfurl in a captivating display. On the palate, silky textures offset tart cherry and blackberry fruits, balanced by a core of rounded tannins and lifting acidity, as hints of licorice and sweet herbal tones develope. The finish is medium in length and poised, showing fine-grain tannins beneath a sheen of polished red and black fruits, with hints of lavender lingering on. The 2015 Rennina is a classy wine that’s just begging for a few years in the cellar to fully blossom." Vinous

"Aromatic, evoking wild herb and balsamic notes of juniper, thyme and pine, along with flavors of black cherry, plum and iron. Firmly structured and fresh, offering a long, complex aftertaste. Unfolds pleasantly and maintains balance." Wine Spectator

"The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Rennina is beautifully balanced and elegant. The wine is successfully streamlined and focused on the nuanced characteristics of the otherwise warm and sunny 2015 vintage. Rennina is often considered to be the more lithe and graceful of Gaja's two Brunellos. The bouquet opens to pretty berry nuances, blue flower, lavender, grilled herb and powdery licorice. Despite the more delicate approach, Rennina delivers ample power in the mouth with fresh acidity and tight tannins. I'd suggest opening this bottle at the 10-year mark." Wine Advocate

"Extremely perfumed and pretty with dried berry, orange peel and fruit tea on the nose. Full-bodied, extremely tight and refined with superb tannin quality that shows polish, finesse and beauty. It goes on for minutes on the palate. One for the cellar. Best wine ever from here. Needs three or four years to come together." James Suckling

Andrea Franchetti began positioning Palazzi as an equal red alongside his flagship Tenuta di Trinoro in the 1990s, with the aim of producing two exceptional wines that evoke the left and right banks of Bordeaux.

Just three words: power, intensity and concentration. With a very manageable production of 1,660 bottles, here comes a full-throttle Tuscan wine that exudes generous black fruit, spice and sweet tobacco all the time. There is also black cherry and plum, which give the wine soft contours and sweetness. On the palate, it is firm, well-structured and delights with a mouth-filling richness that is second to none. Take a good piece of red meat, marinate it in rosemary and olive oil before heading to the charcoal grill and then embark on this monumental adventure. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich ruby with a black core. Intense and inviting nose with notes of cocoa, blackberry, plum and fine spices. Dense and concentrated on the palate, very lush, grippy, savoury tannins, rich tobacco on the long final." Falstaff

"This vibrant red is pure and well-defined, with cherry, raspberry and floral aromas and flavors detailed by iron and wild thyme, supported from dense yet refined tannins. Excellent length." Wine Spectator

"The Tenuta di Trinoro 2019 Palazzi is a pure expression of Merlot with incoming fruit from the Palazzi vineyard that is characterized by dense clay soils. The wine's intensity is what stands out most, and that power is fueled by lovely nuances of black fruit, spice, sweet tobacco and baker's chocolate. Palazzi excels in terms of mouthfeel. The smooth richness and deep softness achieved here is only possible with this grape. Furthermore, it seems only possible in this spectacular, sun-drenched corner of undiscovered Tuscany known as Sarteano." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Palazzi is a classic Trinoro wine, with maybe a bit less bombastic intensity than some of the earlier wines, but all of the seamless elegance that has long made these reds so compelling. All the elements are wonderfully put together in the 2019, a wine that impresses with its mix of elegance, flamboyant intensity and sheer allure. I loved it." Vinous

Superb - the Cerretalto 2012, a plant from a historical top location in the west of Montalcino. In the bouquet, spicy accents and aromas of soft sour cherries and blackberries give the scent. The impeccable taste impresses with its dynamic and weighty character, the dense tannin with good supporting effect, the respectable acidity and a first class finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"A rich, deep ruby with a garnet shimmer. Intense and complex nose, with dark cherries, violets, fresh, juicy plums, olive paste and dried tomatoes, very inviting. Rich, firm base on the palate, lots of warmth, dark, ripe fruit, dense tannin interwoven with sweet enamel, salty and long, for lying clean!" Falstaff

"The 2012 Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto offers a prolonged, flowing and carefully massaged drinking experience that drapes over the senses with some studied intensity and lots of intriguing complexity. This wine nails that perfect balance between power and elegance (that elusive exchange that so many winemakers hope to achieve) with effortless precision. Bold cherry fruit and spice are tightly woven together. In the mouth, the wine shows texture, depth and succulence. Generally speaking, this is not my favorite vintage in Montalcino, but this wine suddenly made me forget that thought." Wine Advocate

"Flavors of medicinal herbs, juniper, macerated cherry, plum, tobacco and spice are the hallmarks of this intense red. Ripe and concentrated, yet sleek and focused, with spice notes chiming in on the long, minerally and firmly tannic finish." Wine Spectator

"The density is so impressive in this great single-vineyard wine of Casanova. It's full yet agile at the same time. Shows such integrated tannins and fresh acidity at the finish. Energized and focused. Tangy and citrusy. Mineral undertone. One of the great Brunellos of 2012." James Suckling

Shiny, rich ruby with light garnet glints. Great and memorable nose, incredibly dense, smells of hazelnuts, leather and ripe wild raspberries. Great on the palate, lots of compact, tightly meshed tannin, coated with sweet melting, multilayered and dense, builds up for a long time, reverberates with plums and liquorice. SUPERIORE.DE

"Juicy and fleshy, with aromas of cherry, raspberry, flowers and liquorice. Harmonious and open, this wine is approachable now and should improve over the next five years. The firm, long finish picks up a mineral element." Wine Spectator

"Shiny, brightening ruby garnet. Dense and compact in the nose, ripe fruit notes, of plum, rose petals and truffle, discreet smoky notes. Impressive on the palate, shows lots of grippy, tightly meshed tannin, pithy, has the firm character of Serralunga wines, earthy notes on the final." Falstaff

"Many aromas of rose petals, stems and sandalwood, but also plums and berries. Medium-bodied with a firm palate and very fine tannins that extend throughout the length of the wine. Straightforward and concentrated. Hints of nutmeg and pie crust accentuate the palate. It's approachable now, but needs another three or four years to open up. Try it after 2026." James Suckling

"The Barolo Sperss 2018 is a great, great wine. The aromas alone are seductive. But then, that's one of the things that makes Barolo such a seductive wine. Sweet black cherry, lavender, spice and leather add an impressive array of dimensions to this unusually translucent Barolo. The powerful Serralunga tannins are there, but they are beautifully woven into the fabric of the wine." Vinous

"With fruit from Serralunga d'Alba, the Gaja 2018 Barolo Sperss is impossible to confuse with any other Barolo. The bouquet has a firm, etched quality with dark fruit, pencil shavings, iron and red brick. But there is also a fragrant interlude of wild cherry, forest fruit and orange peel. The Sperss is all about muscle, power and structure. It promises a longer aging potential and bottle evolution." Wine Advocate

Pianrosso comes from a south-western site of the Castelnuovo dell'Abate subzone at an altitude of about 300 m with mainly Galestro soils. It opens the pleasure cinema with a rich, sparkling garnet red. The bouquet is seductive and deep with hints of dark and black fruits, sage, rose petals and violets. On the palate, there is a distinct salty-fresh minerality, which soon enters into a wonderful harmony with the fine-grained tannins and the perfectly layered fruit, leading the wine powerfully with optimal balance into a soft, hardly ending finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Elegant wine that smells of berries, leather and tobacco; the tannins finely chiselled yet long-lasting, the acidity well integrated, the finish seductively long on notes of ripe forest fruits and balsamic notes. Of Burgundian elegance." Vinum

"The Cru wine is a selection of the best vines and is also one of the best Brunelli this year. The wines benefit from well-draining Galestro soils. Immensely complex and multi-faceted, it beguiles with redcurrants, fresh ethereal spicy notes reminiscent of Mediterranean herbs, plus mineral-salty hints as well as floral nuances (rose petals, violet blossoms). Finesse-rich palate with fresh, juicy fruit, very cleverly arranged, skilfully framed by fine polished, noble tannin, very elegant style, with ethereal spicy notes on the long final." Weinwisser

"Sparkling, medium dense ruby garnet. Finely marked nose with notes of wild raspberries, ripe, small plums, some cardamom and rose petals. Round and supple on the attack, showing plenty of sweet melt, lots of raspberry, opens up on the back end with fine meshed, slightly grippy tannin, savoury, slight bitterness on the final." Falstaff

Both 2018 wines from Ciacci Piccolomini offer a "deliciousness" of flavour and a true Umami quality, but the Pianrosso selection offers greater Brunello satisfaction. This not quite 12 hectare, iron-rich marl vineyard has had just enough warmth to make its southern origins clear. It has more shape, form and depth that give it staying power. Iron and salty minerals emerge against a backdrop of persimmon and hibiscus, finishing with Mediterranean herbs. The soft, sandy tannins are smooth and yielding, giving the wine a complex texture and immediate drinkability." Decanter

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Pianrosso opens in the glass with dark aromas of crushed plums and black cherries, accompanied by notes of rosemary, spiced citrus peel and a hint of cocoa. This is a particularly racy style for Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona, with cool mineral tones and zesty acidity driving the ripe berry fruit and hints of sour citrus across the palate. Although structured, it finishes with tremendous energy and freshness, leaving a bitter hint of balsamic spice in the mouth. The 2018 may not have the power often associated with Pianrosso, but it impresses with its lively and spicy character." Vinous

"A complex red wine with dark, spicy notes of liquorice, eucalyptus and tobacco that combine with cherry and berry flavours. Juicy, with a slightly viscous texture, with wild herb and iron elements creeping in on the long finish. Power meets grace." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino produces beautiful results if you choose to drink it now, or if you cellar it a little longer. It offers immediate intensity and complexity with a red and purple berry fruit attack that follows tarry spices, campfire ash, liquorice and rusty nails. These savoy tones are balanced with the wine's elegant, medium-weight finish. And the tannins are seamlessly integrated. The winemaking team has done a good job in a difficult vintage." Wine Advocate

"This wine is so complex, with citrus and herbal notes lifting the blue and red berry fruits. Thyme, sage and lavender, but also mocha and clove. Full-bodied, full of depth and intensity, with firm but seamless tannins. Develops into espresso. Balanced, powerful and very long. Taste after 2025." James Suckling

"A certainty of appellation for the Bianchini family vineyard, just a few steps from Castelnuovo dell'Abate. Very multi-faceted nose, redcurrant, then marjoram and iodine touches, like Taggiasche olives. The sip is juicy, with a fruity-officinal finish and very long reverberation." Luca Gardini

Concerto was born in 1981, a time of dynamic change in Italian viticulture. The previously untapped potential was recognised and experiments were made with new grape varieties and, for the first time, successfully with international grape varieties. Produced from 80% Sangiovese and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, the Rosso Toscana Concerto was one of the pioneers of the later phenomenon of the Supertuscans and was one of the region's elite wines for a long time.

Intense, bright ruby red colour. Rich bouquet of redcurrant, cherry, spices and a delicate hint of vanilla. Endless fruit on the palate, dense and full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a very subtle acid wire in the background. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, intense colour. Sweet, fragrant and with fine fruit, the Concerto smells from the glass and shows a lot of Sangiovese flavour and a captivating sweetness. It does not reach the fullness of the 2020 and the overall flavour remains a little lighter in tone. With high intensity, the Concerto 2021 is then somewhat less full in the mouth with excellent extract sweetness. Dense and taut, polished and long, with a very straightforward structure and tightly woven, fine tannins. Great, penetrating Concerto with lots of juice, the wood shines through a little on the finish." Weinwisser

"Rich, deep dark ruby colour. Presents itself on the nose with notes of tobacco and liquorice, dark, ripe plums, some wild berries. Rich and at the same time polished on the palate, builds beautifully, velvety, well-integrated tannins, has firm pressure, long finish." Falstaff

"The Concerto di Fonterutoli 2021, an assemblage of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon from Mazzei, is full-bodied and full-toned from the ground up. Strong, red fruits, blood orange, cedar and spices combine effortlessly with soft, silky tannins to round off the whole. Today, the Sangiovese is very expressive." Vinous

"It's spicy and vibrant with a blend of red and dark berries, dried citrus peel, chilli pepper and spicy herbs. Also a hint of bark. Full-bodied with polished tannins and a chalky, powdery texture. The juicy acidity comes into its own. Shows depth and concentration. Racy and long. Better from 2026." James Suckling

"The 2021 Concerto di Fonterutoli is a very extracted wine that carries its fruit weight over a long and velvety mouthfeel. The wine delivers dark fruit, cherry liqueur, spice and smoked tobacco. This is a modern Tuscan wine with broad shoulders, powerful structure and rich texture. It needs a few more years of bottle ageing to smooth out the tannins." Wine Advocate

"Despite the hot summer of 2021, the nights were cool, which allowed the healthy grapes to fully ripen and contributed to the finesse of the tannins. The Mazzei family has made a great leap in quality, resulting in a wine with greater purity, transparency and finesse. The aromas are clear, bright and precise, with notes of lively blackcurrant wrapped in gentle spice. The acidity is lively, the flavours are bright and vibrant, and the tannins are fine and beautifully integrated into the wine. This is a stunning wine that is effortless, light and flowing across the palate." Decanter

The single-varietal Cabernet Sauvignon Toren is the only red cru from Tiefenbrunner's rare –line and comes from a 0.6 –microlocation with – and –gravel soils: Sparkling garnet red with a slight violet shimmer. Very intense and appealing nose, smelling of cassis, blackberry, tobacco and mint. Also on the palate rich, incisive fruit, mountains of cassis and cranberries, juicy and dense, builds up nicely with ripe tannin, long final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful, concentrated ruby with a fine violet shimmer. Opens with balsamic notes, mint and eucalyptus, then lots of blueberry and blackcurrant, very precise. Substantial and firm in attack and course, opens with lots of present, very well integrated tannin, coated with fine melting, ripe, concentrated berry fruit, long finish." Falstaff

"Bright cassis fruit and smoky nose. The palate has lots of black fruit and spicy, graphite notes, plus ripe and silky tannins. Long finish. Good ageing potential." Decanter

"The Tiefenbrunner 2018 Alto Adige Cabernet Sauvignon Riserva Vigna Toren shows dark concentration with saturated hues of blackish blue and purple. This wine is juicy and thick, offering big intensity, with blackberry, dried plum and sweet earth. This soft and richly layered Cabernet Sauvignon (with a mere 1,610 bottles produced) is born in a 0.6–hectare vineyard site that is intersected by the warmer bands of mountain air at a moderate 270 to 320 meters in elevation. Tobacco and cured leather add complexity." Wine Advocate

Bricco della Bigotta has an aroma of cherries, cinnamon, black pepper and a hint of tobacco. Great finesse and a harmonious balance between acidity and alcohol on the palate. Long finish with character and class. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, intense ruby red colour. Ripe nose of red fruits, cherry, plum, followed by spicy notes of liquorice and vanilla, with a hint of wood. On the palate it is rich, round and reminiscent of ripe fruit and undergrowth, very long finish." Falstaff

"A rich and intense Barbera that offers dark plums, blackberries, ground spices and chocolate. Structured and dense with chalky tannins and juicy acidity. Long lasting finish." James Suckling

"Dense and concentrated aromas of black plum jam, cloves, vanilla and violets pour from the glass from the start. Blackberry and black cherry compote fill the palate, while sweet and savoury spices emerge, giving way to dried violets, mocha and dark earthy notes. The wine finishes with elegant tannins and tangy, fresh Barbera acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"A bright, concentrated red with aromas and flavours of plum, fruitcake, leather, tar and oak spices. Dense, with serious tension that defines the long aftertaste. Intense and complex." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Barbera d'Asti Bricco della Bigotta is a wild, exotic wine. Super-ripe dark cherry, kirsch, new leather, menthol, blood orange and sweet oak add loads of nuance and complexity to this flamboyant Barbera. The Bigotta is rich and layered, with great depth, another winner in this range from Braida. Bright acids and floral notes round off the finish." Vinous