James Suckling

Deep, bright ruby red in colour. This 100% Nero d'Avola is a captivating wine with its full-bodied, fruity and spicy aroma of blackcurrants, cherries, undergrowth, liquorice and dark chocolate. The soft but firm, multi-layered and warm flavour of ripe berries, the fine spice and the fine tannins are very appealing. SUPERIORE.DE

"It is a well-made Nero d'Avola with a purity and freshness in its ripe character of red and black berries and cherries. Intense and savoury, with tangy acidity, it shows juicy cherries and black fruits along with notes of chocolate and balsamic and mouth-coating tannins. Full and rich in fruit, but quite vertical in style, it is a lively and storable example of what can be achieved with this typical Sicilian grape." Decanter

"The 2020 Santa Cecilia, a single varietal Nero d'Avola, rises from the glass with a dark and brooding blend of crushed plums, cloves, stone dust and a hint of camphor. It's round and supple with juicy acidity that retains a lovely energy, and bright red and blue fruits cascade across the palate. The 2020 finishes with a bitter touch of savoury spice and a hint of sour citrus, while a layer of fine tannins lingers. The 2020 is a very beautiful and balanced wine for medium-term cellaring." Vinous

"Bright and fragrant, with a lush creaminess that carries flavours of strawberry jam, dried cherries, tar, tea roses and singed orange peel. Well-spiced and minerally, with slightly chalky tannins that provide fine definition." Wine Spectator

"The Santa Cecilia 2020 is one of Sicily's iconic wines, a Nero d'Avola clothed in elegance and precision. The wine is softly structured and multi-layered with dark fruits, black cherries, spices and sweet tobacco. The Santa Cecilia takes a classic approach with a balance between generous fruit and carefully managed oak." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of blackberries, flowers and dark earth with a hint of fresh black mushrooms. Medium to full body with round and creamy tannins and a delicious undertone. Just a hint of vanilla bean underneath the fruit." James Suckling

"The nose starts bubbly and sweet, with aromas of black plums, cherry and vanilla, then turns savory but still crackly, with notes of pencil shavings, pepper, graphite and leather. The palate doubles back toward juicy fruit with figs and more plums, then shifts again toward that sanguine earthiness, but textured tannins and almost silky acid unify the whole." Wine Enthusiast

Amarone Sergio Zenato Riserva - seductive complexity. Deep bouquet of black berries and cocoa, violets and lavender. The taste with aromas of cherries, blackberries and wild berries, in the long finish the invigorating fresh impressions of medicinal herbs. A stately wine of the upper class. SUPERIORE.DE

"It is a real palate pleaser with lush notes of black cherry coulis, raspberry ganache, strawberry jam, ground anise and espresso. Fine-grained tannins frame this lively, silky red, with notes of smoke, dried herbs and spices that linger on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"The Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva Sergio Zenato 2007 by Zenato is of great fascination. Truffles, tobacco, orange peel and incense give it exotic dimensions, nuances and complexity. The incredibly young 2007 will need at least a few years in the bottle, but it will always remain an opulent wine built on texture and volume. All the elements come together to create a remarkable wine that stands out for its purity and depth. This is a fabulous achievement by Zenato." VINOUS

"Tertiary aromas laden with mahogany, toasted chestnut, varnish and umami, like dried porcini rolled in coffee grind. A forceful thrust of fruit and parry of impeccably hewn tannins. An impressive wine that is as hedonistic as it is intellectual. The style is contextually dry, powerful and layered." James Suckling

The annual production of this boutique winery on Etna is just 9,000 bottles. At an altitude of 950 metres above sea level, the one and a half hectares of vines are divided into eight tiny plots and have been gradually bought up by the well-known Oenologist. The area is planted with Nerello Mascalese bush vines, which have been spared the phylloxera phylloxera and make their way through the lava-covered terraces.

The single vines, which are on average 80 to 100 years old, are cultivated in the traditional, low-bush Alberello style, to which the wine owes its name. Alberelli di Giodo is extremely elegant and flavoursome and represents the minerality and finesse typical of its volcanic growing region to a remarkable degree. SUPERIORE.DE

"From ancient bush trees in high vineyards: finely chiselled aromas of raspberries and blossoms, also balsamic facets; noble texture, the acidity and tannins wonderfully modelled, long, fresh and fruity and yet extremely elegant. Very successful." Vinum

"Bright, light ruby red colour. Intriguing nose, delicate fruity notes, reminiscent of raspberries and cherries, followed by dried herbs and a hint of black truffle. Lively and precise on the palate, starts with a lot of juice, firm tannin structure and dancing acidity, spicy final, good length." Falstaff

"Transparent ruby red colour. Rich and yet with plenty of pace. And some light animal notes." Jancis Robinson

"Cola, tobacco, cinnamon and baked cherries. Freshness and lift from the start, super fresh with a juicy succulence that is so inviting. A clean palate with a gentle flavour drive. Feels well crafted with finesse. Balanced with so much juicy goodness, lovely velvety tannins and sweet strawberry, raspberry and pomegranate fruit on the palate. It will also develop superbly with time in the glass. This wine certainly has power, depth and vigour. A wine to age." Decanter

"A medium-bodied, very dense and precise red wine with focused, firm tannins framing smooth layers of cranberry, blackberry, stone, slate and tobacco. Also a hint of dried fruit. Mineral and stony. The wine has the character of old vines, with plenty of bark and spice on the finish. Try it from 2024 onwards." James Suckling

"The 2020 Sicilia Nerello Mascalese from Carlo Ferrini opens with a beautiful ruby red colour and an elegant, slender appearance. The wine offers tart cherry fruit, cassis, blue flowers, iron ore and orange peel. These different layers come together with balanced intensity. This vintage shows tremendous elegance and tannins that melt slowly and persistently on the palate. This bottle offers a very authentic and classic expression of the Sicilian volcano." Wine Advocate

"It is a pure Nerello Mascalese, preceded by a measured maceration on the skins and then refined in tonneaux. It has notes of black cherry, a hint of rhubarb, a touch of marjoram and black peppercorns. Spicy on the palate, with a fruity, spicy finish and hints of undergrowth." Luca Gardini

The Piero selection was created as a tribute to the work of Pierluigi Talenti, who has selected and worked the Sangiovese with passion over the years. A 1.95 hectare vineyard near the centre of the winery, with unique pedoclimatic characteristics, is distinguished from all other vineyards by its consistent quality. The gently sloping terrain is surrounded by woods rich in marl, with a south-eastern exposure at an altitude of 410 metres above sea level, where Pierluigi followed and cultivated his personal clonal selection in the 1970s. It is a wine with intense and persistent character, ruby colour, fine and elegant tannins. After ageing in tonneaux for at least 24 months, it is bottled until it is released to the market. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium intensity, warm red; red fruity, subtly spicy, caramel; round approach, fruit deep, nice tannin, pronounced length, very nice." (JLF) Merum

"Needs some aeration, but then aromas of wild berries and flowers, well cushioned by the wood, entice; juicy, fresh, full of race, the tannins robust and well integrated, intense and yet of great elegance the final." Vinum

"The bouquet is incredibly finely woven and complex, noble in its own way. Very sweet cherries, strawberries and wild berries, behind them a lot of Mediterranean herbal spice, plus fine floral notes. Wide and deep in the mouth with sweet-juicy tannins and fantastic freshness, because the ethereal notes are just wonderfully lingering and keep the wine quite long and spicy-fresh until the final. Delightful!" Weinwisser

"Tart, firm, somewhat dried-vegetable, fleshy and slightly tarry aroma of mixed berries with a hint of plums, tarragon, nutty aromas, a hint of leaves, pepper and iodine. Almost cool, juicy, quite taut fruit with acid bite and present, yet relatively fine tannins, herbal spice on the palate, nutty hints, a touch of chocolate, a little peppery ethereal tones in the background, smoky nuances, capers, rosemary and salt, some depth, still undeveloped, very good, taut finish, again with bite and ethereal spice." Wein-Plus

"Bright ruby-garnet, sparkling. Classic nose with notes of ripe dark cherries, plus plum, some blood orange and cardamom. Moves along quietly and richly, showing lots of present, ripe fruit, fine-meshed tannin, juicy and long finish." Falstaff

"Deep ruby red with brick coloured rim. Brooding sweet and sour cherry with hints of cinnamon sticks. Lush sour cherry on the palate with lots of finely ground but firm tannins. Great balance, substance and length, with decent oak management." Jancis Robinson

"Pretty hazelnut, dried flower and chocolate notes in the raspberries and ripe cherries. Medium-bodied, deliciously open and juicy, framed by taut tannins, with excellent drinkability. Fresh and balanced on the finish with tension." James Suckling

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Piero has more textural richness compared to the Brunello annata. This extra intensity is used in all the right places, both in terms of aromas and mouthfeel with extra stuffing here and aromatic accents there. The bouquet is infused with dark fruits, spices and grilled herbs. Like the Brunello annata, this wine has an accessible, medium-term drinking window in this vintage. Production of Piero is limited to 4,000 bottles and the grapes come from a two-hectare site at a cool 400 metres above sea level." Wine Advocate

"While less expressive than Talenti's classic Brunello, the Piero is by no means austere, and the 2018 may be my favourite vintage of this single-vineyard selection to date. It presents a beautiful purity of wild wild berry aromas lifted by mint, lavender and fennel, while blood orange and cocoa resound on the palate. Aged in 500 LitersFrench oak barrels - 30% of which are new - the wood has digested well, giving it a well-built, polished frame that doesn't overpower the fruit. A sneaky concentration and crisp acidity balance it all out." Decanter

"One of the standout wines of the vintage, the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Piero starts dark and restrained in the glass, slowly coming to life with an array of dusty roses, dried strawberries, crushed plums, smoke and hints of fresh mint. The palate is velvety smooth and powerful, with admirable weight for the vintage, but also finesse as the wild berry fruit is supported by a core of vibrant acidity and violet flowers emerge towards the finish. The 2018 finishes with a bitter aftertaste of sour citrus and tart currants, but retains its fresh personality as grippy tannins linger on the palate and hints of lavender slowly fade." Vinous

"This juicy red wine features bright cherry and raspberry aromas that combine with thyme, mint and floral notes on the finish. Complex and lively, with a fine length in the refined, mineral aftertaste. Very elegant and long." Wine Spectator

"The nose is a coastal manor house, where the untamed sea air persistently intrudes on the domesticated aromas of vanilla and leather. The palate turns fruitier, with notes of cherry and strawberry, before salted dark chocolate explodes into a kaleidoscope of oranges on the finish, which is emphasized by strong tannins and acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"A beautiful project overseen by Riccardo and dedicated in memory of the progenitor Pierluigi. Fine nose, notes of red mulberry, citrus thyme and a hint of orange peel. Juicy-juicy, with a finish of fruity-citrus notes." Luca Gardini

L'Alberello is a beautiful Bolgheri Superiore made primarily from Cabernet. The wine comes from a two-hectare plot planted entirely with long rows of Alberello vines planted at an altitude of 30 metres above sea level on predominantly clayey soils. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel and the wine matures for 18 months in barriques. This vintage is very generous and broad in terms of flavour and texture, with finely polished tannins. Starts fresh and vehement with warm, dark fruit flavours, then opens up further with a bouquet of herbs, coffee and a pinch of pepper. Remarkably polished and juicy on the palate, everything is in balance, silky and very charismatic on the long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Seductively spicy wild berry nose, with a touch of lilac and liquorice notes; juicy on the palate, the acidity, vivid and perfectly integrated, underpins the powdery tannins, finishes long and with lots and lots of polish." Vinum

"The Bolgheri Superiore L'Alberello 2020 from Grattamacco is impressive. Crushed red berry fruits, white pepper, mint, flowers, spices and blood oranges race across the palate, with remarkable freshness and vibrancy. This deceptively medium-bodied Maremma red wine is wonderfully refined and nuanced from start to finish. I particularly admire the energy it exudes. Pretty floral and mineral notes brighten the finish and the flavours linger." Vinous

"There is a yin and yang between the luscious fruit of blackberries, blackcurrants and cherries and the tense, grainy tannins in this red wine, which starts fluidly and then firms up on the long finish. Mineral notes and undergrowth add depth. At this stage, it simply appears more youthful than its competitors. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc." Wine Spectator

"Dark garnet with aromas of blueberry and forest floor, this is very Mediterranean and youthful, with cedar wood and liquorice candy complexity on the finish. Firm and grippy at first, it's extracted and powerful with a concentration of fruit and freshness in a tight-knit matter. A great Bordeaux blend worth waiting for." Decanter

"This is a preview of the Bolgheri Superiore l'Alberello 2020, which was tasted at the winery. This wine is very different from the winery's flagship wine, Bolgheri Superiore Grattamacco. Firstly, the vines are planted according to the Alberello system in a special symmetrical grid so that each plant enjoys the same exposure. The blend consists of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Cabernet Franc. This unfinished vintage shows a strong mineral or saline signature with earth, liquorice, dried mint and damp clay." Wine Advocate

"Beautiful, clean black fruit character in this full-bodied and densely packed red wine. It also offers notes of dark chocolate, cardamom and fresh fenugreek seeds. The tannins are well embedded in the texture and draw you into the wine. The fruit is persistent. The finish is long and firm towards the end. From organically grown grapes. Cabernet sauvignon and Cabernet franc. This wine is already very impressive, but it will linger in the bottle for a few more years. But it's very tempting now." James Suckling

Etna Rosso Prephylloxera Vigna di Don pepis a breathtakingly elegant, small-production Etna Rosso. Iridescent, pure dark red colour and an infinitely broad fruity aroma. Impeccable balance and structure on the palate. The tannins are present and yet wonderfully elegant and balanced. An explosive wine made from 100 per cent Nerello Mascalese - and from ancient vines in Calderara and Santo Spirito. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2021 Etna Rosso Prephylloxera La Vigna di Don pepCalderara Sottana is a feast for the eyes. The colour alone stuns the mind: a translucent ruby red that misleads the taster into expecting a delicate and lifted effort. The wine opens slowly in the glass, smoky and intense, with hints of ash and rosemary. A core of crushed wild berries and exotic spices comes to the fore. It is highly structured yet deceptively energetic, with silky waves of dark red fruit washing over the palate, leaving a salty hint of minerals and savoury herbs. A complex web of fine-grained tannins squeezes tightly and is balanced by a savoury residual acidity, while the inner flowers and a hint of tangerine slowly evaporate. Patience is required." Vinous

"This seamless, graceful red is long and supple, with a subtle, plump juiciness in the palette of red-hot cherries and dried raspberries, showing notes of fresh loamy earth, dried tea roses and thyme, dark chocolate and smoke. Fine-grained tannins firm up the lingering finish." Wine Spectator

"Dusty and spicy with just a hint of orange peel overlaying some deep, dark berry scents, in the mouth it has a beautiful expression of sweet, concentrated balsam-laced red and black fruits showing levity and balance on a soft palate. There's floral depth to find here, given focus by the bright acidity, while the fine tannins cradle the succulent, joyous fruit. Persistent and vibrant." Decanter

"This wine has impressive depth and complexity with an array of red and dark berry flavours mixed with dark chocolate, ground spice and burnt orange peel. All these flavours lie on a bed of smoked, ashy, dark stone and wet asphalt undertones. Full and deep with very fine, silky tannins. So much tension and power here. It lasts for minutes and ends with a seamless, structured finish. From old vines from before the phylloxera plague. Try it now, but it will age beautifully. Best after 2026." James Suckling

Camarcanda is a rich Bolgheri Rosso Superiore with a dark bouquet of black fruits, espresso, chocolate, liquorice and tar. On the palate, it is decidedly full-bodied, with excellent depth, dense structure and firm body. Opulent and long, this wine already shows a wide range of its personality. SUPERIORE.DE

"Promising raspberry and herbal notes flatter on the nose; harmonious texture, wonderful tannic acid framework, has juice and power through to the final. Makes you want more." Vinum

"Dark ruby red with violet edges. Deep, elegant bouquet, rather dominated by red and blue berries and seductive floral notes that almost remind you a little of a Barolo, but only almost, because here the whole thing is framed by cassis and cabernet aromas. On the palate, too, this is not made for power, but rather elegant and well-proportioned. I have rarely had such an elegant Ca' Marcanda in my glass. This is precise, almost feminine, punchy and yet also with the juiciness and melting of a modern Bolgheri coastal blend." Weinwisser

"Very typical for the region of Bolgheri, showing fresh and dried herbs, from sage to mint, with currants and dark berries. It’s medium-to full-bodied with very fine tannins and very attractive length and energy. Very drinkable now, but better in 2023." James Suckling

"The 2018 Camarcanda is a rich, dense wine that marries the natural intensity of the Tuscan Coast with the greater sense of energy the estate's wines have today. A blast of dark cherry, plum, espresso, menthol and licorice infuses the 2018 with notable depth that continues to build over time." Vinous

"Intense, vibrant and juicy, the 2018 Camarcanda features bright red and black fruits, wood and balsamic notes all wrapped up in some soft creaminess. Tight and tangy, the palate features ripe fruits and a mouthwatering saline finish, leaving you wanting more. So fresh and youthful, this will benefit from time in the cellar." Decanter

"Dense and fluid at once, this red delivers plum, black cherry, licorice, olive, bay leaf and spice flavors. Ripe and balanced, with a lingering, spicy, tobacco-tinged aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"The Ca' Marcanda estate does not make a Bolgheri Superiore, although this bottle would qualify as such. The 2018 Bolgheri Rosso Camarcanda is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, and you definitely feel those full-throttle varietal aromas with big intensity and clarity. Spicy greenness comes forward as grilled rosemary and lavender essence, but the wine boasts nice depth and dimension, and enough textual richness to smooth it all out. This was a slightly cooler vintage with some sporadic rain showers throughout the summer. These conditions might explain the sharper side of those Cabernet aromas. As the wine moves over the palate, it reveals more substantial aromas of black fruit, spice and baker's chocolate." Wine Advocate

With the Pinot Nero Riserva Vigna Das Langefeld, the Pfitscher family has undoubtedly created an elegant top wine that perfectly reflects the identity of the terroir.

The small vineyard Das Langefeld is one of the highest and oldest Pinot Noir vineyards in South Tyrol. It is located in the Glen vineyard above Montan at around 550 metres above sea level. Alongside Mazzon, this site is certainly one of the best known and most recognised for this grape variety in Italy. Like all of the Pfitscher family's vineyards, this plot of only 4,000 square metres is cultivated exclusively organically. The vineyard faces west and is characterised by deep clay and limestone soils. The Guyot training system enables an enormous planting density of around 8,000 vines per hectare.

Today, Vigna Das Langefeld is a family project that Klaus Pfitscher started back in 1984 at the age of 24. Even then, he recognised the potential of the site and decided to plant Pinot Noir clones from Burgundy. Looking back, he states: "When I planted this vineyard in 1984, I was convinced that something great would come out of it. This wine is the fulfilment of a dream". His son Hannes, a trained Oenologist and cellar master at Pfitscher, is now passionate about the winery's wines together with his father. He adds: "We are all constantly striving for perfection. The age of the vines, the microclimate of Glen and the organic cultivation form the basis for a wine with great depth as well as excellent elegance and finesse, of which we are very proud".

Eros Teboni, WSA Best Sommelier of the World 2018, already had the masterpiece in his glass: "The Vigna Das Langefeld has an elegant, modern signature that is nevertheless strongly linked to the typicality of South Tyrolean wines. In other interpretations of this grape variety, you sometimes find more rustic traits: here, on the other hand, elegance and vibrancy predominate. A Pinot Noir with a strong identity and great personality, produced with the greatest commitment and attention to detail."

This wine is the result of a careful selection process in which healthy, fully ripe grapes from a small harvest are picked by hand. This is followed by a two-day cold maceration of the largely undestemmed grapes and a spontaneous fermentation of around 14 days. After a further 12 months of maturation in barriques, the wine rests and matures for six months in a 10 hl wooden barrel and then 30 months in the bottle. The wine is bottled unfined and unfiltered. The new top wine from Pfitscher is released in an edition of only 1,296 numbered bottles and we are delighted to be able to offer a few examples of this exclusive wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"A rich, savoury Pinot with ripe red and dark berries, bark, cocoa, damp earth and a hint of tar. Full and layered, quite weighty and deep, yet balanced and focused, with a firm tannic structure and a lingering finish. Earthy and spicy." James Suckling

"Elegant ruby red colour with a brightening rim. Inviting nose of blood orange, rosehip and raspberry, with light spices and fine, fragrant floral notes on the finish. On the palate with great, cool fruit and savoury tannins, shows beautiful depth, comes in many layers, salty, precise and with a lot of tension." Falstaff

Pure Burgundian elegance and Tuscan flavour. A Sangiovese in Riserva quality that impresses with its long, continuous course of flavoursome fruit and carefully extracted tannins. Light ruby colour with garnet-red reflections. Clear nose with notes of pomegranate, raspberry and a hint of saffron. Fresh, juicy and superbly unadulterated on the finish and with great ageing Storage potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, shiny ruby colour with garnet-red nuances. Fragrant, almost perfumed on the nose, of lavender, rosehip, fresh raspberries and fine woody spice. Tightly woven, elegant tannins on the palate, carried by invigorating acidity, with a long, pleasantly salty finish." Falstaff

"The Riecine di Riecine 2020 is an idiosyncratic, fascinating wine. Dried herbs, tobacco, incense, wild flowers and mint give this pure Sangiovese a decidedly savoury flair. The Riecine di Riecine is medium-bodied and also quite spicy, it is decidedly exotic." Vinous

"The Riecine di Riecine 2020 is a real statement wine. The very distinctive packaging is dedicated to this pure expression of Sangiovese from 60 year old vines. It offers plenty of ripe, dark cherry, but this wine also shows a clearer veiling of the sweet cinnamon spice that comes from the grape skins." Wine Advocate

"A fresh, clean and light red wine with candied lemon slices and a hint of flowers such as violets. It is medium-bodied and delicious. It builds on the palate. Crisp and flattering texture. Toscana of the new generation." James Suckling

"The nose is a textured blend of astringent fruit, stone, herbs and metal, with a sprinkle of salt and pepper rounding everything out. The salt and pepper are strong on the palate, but notes of hibiscus and cranberry continue to mix and mingle as well, creating a savory, lively atmosphere." Wine Enthusiast

"Unlike anything you know: this single-varietal Sauvignon Blanc is wild and unspoilt. A special experience for wine lovers." Michael Graf Goëss-Enzenberg, Weingut Manincor

Golden yellow Sauvignon with rich, complex aromas of ripe tropical fruit such as mango, papaya and passion fruit. Full-bodied on the palate, otherwise rather mineral like wet stone and with a juicy acidity. The long finish is also a harmonious exchange of blows between austere minerality and ripe fruit. Lieben Aich is a rustic and rare experience for true Sauvignon fans! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, sparkling straw yellow. Opens with appealing notes of lemon balm and sage, then some lime and green peach. Round and balanced on the palate, shows very good tension, juicy fruit, full-bodied pressure on the final." Falstaff

"Like Tannenberg, this is also from the Lieben Aich vineyard, but with very slightly lower yields and lower production. It's made in the same way but with an extra month in barrel. It's a more floral style, showing more freshness and some green fruits on the nose. Intense and more compact, it's textured, limey and slightly leesy, with some peachy fruit, a touch of spice and then some more creamy green fruits to finish." Decanter

"A unique Sauvignon with a beautiful nose that shows the freshness of the mountain air together with the minerality of the gravel and subtle notes of stone fruit, honey, dried summer herbs and raw almonds. On the palate, it shows great tension with medium to full body, even, long-lasting acidity and salty undertones. Hints of minerals and salted lemons with a delicate, silky finish." James Suckling

The special quality of this exceptional wine is evident in the sweet fruit and glycerine, accompanied by firm tannins and the influence of Malvasia Nera, which gives the wine its proportions. Powerful, rich ruby. Deep, dark and dense on the palate, flanked by a multitude of floral and spicy notes. A wine full of intensity, with firm pressure and personality. SUPERIORE.DE

"Fruity-spicy nose, subtle balsamic notes; supple construction with polish and melting, fine-meshed tannin, supported by the acidity, the finish on notes of red berries. Pleasing even in its 40th vintage with its finesse yet also structure." Vinum

"Aromas of blueberries, blackberries, cloves, tobacco, walnuts and chocolate. It's full-bodied with firm, tightly-knit tannins. Structured and tight on the palate with bright acidity. Layered and flavorful with a long finish." James Suckling

"Toasty oak gives way to bright cherry, blackberry and violet aromas and flavors in this sleek, vibrant red, with wild herb, tobacco and mineral notes adding complexity. Supple, yet there's a firm matrix of refined tannins and the finish is defined by lively acidity and finesse." Wine Spectator

"The 2017 I Sodi di San Niccolò is supple, radiant and inviting, almost uncharacteristically so for a young vintage of this typically potent, brooding wine. That makes the 2017 an ideal vintage for readers who want to explore I Sodi, one of the most under the radar wines in all of Italy. Soft contours envelop a core of red berry fruit, dried flowers, licorice, mint and tobacco." Vinous

On the full bouquet we find ripe dark fruits complemented by spiced oranges, sage and mint with a hint of green olive. On the palate, velvety textures are contrasted by cooling acids, while polished black fruits wash over the senses, leaving a mix of salty minerals and fine tannins with a hint of violet flowers. The finish is long, packed with masses of ripe blackberries, plums and sweet herbal tones, but also perfectly structured and, for all its youthfulness, very balanced and harmonious. Luigi Moio and his team have interpreted this vintage brilliantly and have once again set new standards with this year's edition of the single-vineyard Aglianico. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, sparkling ruby colour with a slight violet tinge. Intense and at the same time finely characterised nose, aromas of ripe blackberries, cranberries and blood orange, slightly resinous components in the background. On the palate as if from a single mould, present, crisp berry fruit, opens up with present, pithy tannins in many layers, with an emphatically spicy finish." Falstaff

"The Quintodecimo 2018 Taurasi Riserva Vigna Grande Cerzito (with fruit from volcanic soils, ash and pumice) is richly concentrated but also impeccably balanced with a very dense textural base to support an intense bouquet that is interwoven with black fruit, spice, tar and oak toast. The tannins are slightly drier in this wine and the mouthfeel is just a tad more streamlined, giving this wine the tools it needs to become more elegant and fine with extra time in the bottle. It's a classic Taurasi with long aging potential." Wine Advocate

"Aromas and flavours of Amarena cherries and plums with some vanilla from the oak. With a medium to full body, this Taurasi Riserva is almost light on its feet, although it lacks neither tannic structure nor fruit weight. A fine example of a Taurasi that is beautifully balanced from start to finish, without being overly fat in any area. It is already accessible now, but will clearly gain in complexity with some ageing." James Suckling

"Incense and cloves combine with musky blackcurrants and violette pastille to create a darkly seductive bouquet as the Taurasi Vigna Grande Cerzito 2018 slowly blossoms in the glass. It is pure seduction on the palate. It is silky smooth and refined with polished dark red fruits and sweet herbal notes accompanied by a lively acidity. It leaves the palate with hints of liquorice, tarry blackberries and fine-grained tannins, but the mouth demands more. This is pure class. This is a truly harmonious Grande Cerzito that no lover of Quintodecimo should be without." Vinous

With tireless dedication, the Bologna family fulfils the legacy of Giacomo Bologna, who is rightly called the father of modern Barbera d'Asti. The historic jewel of the house is the Bricco dell'Uccellone: dense and complex on the nose, with blackberry jam, mocha, liquorice and cloves in the drink. Its fine-grained tannins and excellent structure carry it with beautiful fruit and acid wire into a long-lasting finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Braida 2020 Barbera d'Asti Bricco dell'Uccellone is one of the bottles that made Italian wine history. It shows its dark and savoury side with ripe cherries, baked plums, spices, tarry smoke and campfire embers. With time, these flavours soften and reorganise, reminiscent of espresso beans or baking chocolate. The wine is very concentrated and fruit-driven." Wine Advocate

"A supple red wine with aromas of plums, blueberries, clay and toasted oak. It shows assertive tannins on the finish, but has plenty of fruit and the long finish shows its future potential." Wine Spectator

"Notes of crushed dark berries, chocolate, cured meat and dark earth. Medium- to full-bodied, juicy and fresh with tension and energy to the dark fruit. Vivid acidity. Chalky and intense finish. Very attractive." James Suckling

"This historic Barbera opens with blackberry compote, spiced black plums, cedar and sweet spices. The opulent palate shows notes of preserved cherries, anise, cloves and cocoa, with polished and elegant tannins. The wine finishes with a lively acidity that keeps this big, bold and beautiful wine fresh with each glass." Wine Enthusiast

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

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

"Medium red; intense fruit notes, inviting; dense, powerful, depth of fruit, lots of fine tannin, length." Merum

"Just mid ruby with orange tinges. Spicy, complex and brooding nose with hints of cardamon and stony, minerally hints, which normally come out only after longer bottle ageing. With aeration it shows impressive concentration of cherry fruit with a complex oak hints and a layer of succulent marasca-cherry fruit. Lots of juicy acidity and really light of touch while very long. Fine tannins cling to the fruit." Jancis Robinson

"Rose, violet, camphor and oak-driven spice aromas come to the forefront on this lovely red. Focused and elegant, the vibrant palate features juicy red cherry, pomegranate, licorice and a hint of coconut framed in taut, refined tannins. It's well balanced, with bright acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2018 Bussia sports lovely aromas of crunchy redcurrants, rose petals, animal musk and sandalwood. It's all about finesse and exotic charm, the slim silhouette and textural delicacy strengthened by the mid-weight style of the vintage. Perfumed and expressive, with supple tannins and wafts of oriental spice extending the aftertaste, this is a wonderfully approachable Barolo." Decanter

"Here is a relatively new addition to the Ceretto portfolio (first introduced with the 2015 vintage and made in the years since). The organic 2018 Barolo Bussia has a bright note of sweet cherry or candied orange that frames the wine's generous, open-knit character. There are some dusty earth aromas that add layering and texture to the background." Wine Advocate

"Quite a tight nose for now, but already showing lovely aromas of raspberries, together with perfumed, stony minerals and roses. Full-bodied with a compact palate and an array of firm, spicy tannins that builds steadily through the finish. This is excellent Barolo that’s only just beginning its journey. Tiny production. Cellar it until at least 2025." James Suckling

Sparkling, rich straw yellow colour, rich, complex aroma with a delicate, pleasantly creamy nose and the scent of vanilla, mango and fresh pineapple. Full, opulent and full of tension on the palate, juicy and salty, very elegant flavour, accompanied by a fresh, well-balanced acidity. The ideally integrated wood note and the fruity, complex body form a harmonious and impressive unit. The long-lasting finish is refined with a subtle hint of bitter almond. SUPERIORE.DE

"Beautiful flint notes, meadow flowers and limes on the nose. Fine grip on the palate, herbal notes and fresh fruit perfectly balanced, white flowers, long, animating acidity, salty finish." Weinwisser

"Sparkling, pale straw yellow with light green nuances. Opens with a cool hint of mint, nectarine and gooseberry, some flint. Shows emphatically fresh notes on the palate, savoury, persistent, quite light-bodied overall." Falstaff

"The Alois Lageder 2020 Chardonnay Löwengang opens to a classy touch of reduction that recalls flint or struck match. It lifts quickly to reveal pear, quince, golden apple, honey glaze, vanilla wafer and saffron. There is a spicy side as well, with pink peppercorn and lots of glacier-like minimality." Wine Advocate

"The Löwengang Chardonnay is an icon of Italian Chardonnay and continues to demonstrate the Lageder winery's commitment to producing wines of the highest quality. Aromas of spiced baked apples, Comice pears, candied lemon peel, white flowers and baking spices are present. On the palate, the wine is rich and broad, with a creamy texture and hints of vanilla and sweet and savoury spices. The wine finishes with the energy and pulse of the mountains, showing both the minerality and important acidity that gives this wine the structure for the long haul." Wine Enthusiast

"A rich white wine in a graceful frame, with a pronounced salinity that works with vibrant acidity to define the medley of baked pineapple and persimmon, toasted almonds and pastry cream, Meyer lemon peel and elderflower. Expressive and well-knit, with a long finish that reflects the spectrum of flavours and contains additional mineral and spicy elements." Wine Spectator

"Deep nose with a sharp mineral undertone to the complex flavours of white sesame, praline, grilled spices and roasted pineapple. Broad and savoury on the palate with medium to full body and a very tangy, engaging finish. Long, savoury and concentrated." James Suckling

"The Chardonnay Löwengang, which was first produced in 1984, is a prime example of the variety in Alto Adige. It comes from the best plots of 30 to 80-year-old Chardonnay vines in Magrè, near the winery, and is fermented spontaneously in barriques, followed by 11 months on the lees. The result in 2020 is a wine reminiscent of a Puligny, with a nose of flint and matches that introduces a clean and fresh, intense, savoury and persistent palate. The juicy complexity of melon, stone fruit and tropical fruit gives it a wonderful vibrancy and potential for medium-term cellaring." Decanter

Barolo Prapò comes from Serralunga d'Alba and is, as expected, the most powerful and structured of the various single-vineyard wines from this ambitious winery. At the same time, it is also the most closed at the beginning and, with its introverted nature, made for a long maturing period. This site is one of the last where the grapes ripen, so they have plenty of time to develop slowly and carefully each year.

Bright, medium-bodied ruby garnet. A potpourri of floral and spicy notes on the nose, plus some peach and strawberry. Very firm on the palate with initially sinewy serralunga tannin and notes of iron, savory, menthol, licorice, lavender, preserved dark cherries and dried blackberries. With further aeration, there is a thrilling round and full mouthfeel with such precise Nebbiolo style that it is just a joy. Patience is required for this exceptional Barolo, which is guaranteed to be rewarded after further years of bottle ageing! SUPERIORE.DE

"A shade deeper than the rest, a lustrous mid ruby with orange tinges. Lots of concentration on the nose while poised at the same time. Much more brooding and slumbering on the palate with perfectly integrated oak and just the merest hint of cinnamon bark. A big impact of fruit on the palate without being heavy. Fantastic layer of coating tannins underneath the fruit adding structure and depth to the finish. Long tannins, enormously long strawberry flavours." Jancis Robinson

"The 2018 Barolo Prapò is a tightly wound bundle of energy. Today, the Prapò comes across as reticent, but there is enough depth beneath the tannins and acid to make me think all it needs is time to unwind. Sage, tobacco, dried leaves, licorice, leather and earthy tones add gravitas to this potent Serralunga Barolo from the Ceretto family." Vinous

"The 2018 Prapò comes across as surprisingly gracious. The floral verve that is typical of the 2018 vintage superimposes classic Serralunga aromas of forest floor and iron. Similar flavours echo on the palate along with mounting salinity and slightly powdery tannins. This is an early-drinking Barolo by Serralunga d’Alba standards." Decanter

"Star anise, camphor, rose and underbrush aromas shape the nose. On the palate, tightly wound, fine-grained tannins and bright acidity accompany cranberry, orange rind and oak-driven spice before a grippy, rather drying close." Wine Enthusiast

"Pleasant, fresh nose of raspberries and creamy minerals, colored with hints of sous-bois that verge on truffle character. Full-to medium-bodied and very silky, with a lighter framework of fine tannin this year. Long, balanced finish. Prapò is always a pretty Barolo and 2018 is no exception. Should be nicely approachable from 2024." James Suckling

"The 2018 Barolo Prapò is firm, structured and built like a little tank. This organic wine showcases that distinctive power that is always part of the Serralunga d'Alba playlist and defies even this lower-intensity vintage. The bouquet shows dark fruit, ferrous earth and crushed stone. The mineral character is strong in this wine." Wine Advocate

Barolo Brunate comes from the heart of the appellation in La Morra and is one of the most expressive Barolos in Ceretto's single-vineyard collection. The vines are over 50 years old and the total production of the wine is therefore vanishingly small.

Shiny ruby garnet. On the nose, finely balanced aromas of dark cherry, rose blossom, mint and lavender, followed by cassis and plum. More fruit-driven on the palate than its "colleagues", it then impressively shows its origins with its depth and complexity. A red full of personality and character, which will only develop its full potential in the further course of its bottle ageing. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, medium dense ruby garnet, light rim. Presents itself in the nose with emphatically spicy notes, then lots of fresh plum, in the background slightly after ginger. On the palate grippy tannin in many layers, embedded in fine melting, after tobacco, firm pressure in the final." Falstaff

"Lustrous mid ruby with an orange tinge. A hint of oatmeal, a tingle of pepper and concentrated and fresh raspberry fruit with touches of baking spice. Great concentration of raspberry fruit yet really light of touch and bags of crunchy tannins. Long fragrant finish." Jancis Robinson

"A dense, firmly structured red, with black cherry and plum fruit buried beneath tar, menthol and tobacco flavors. Fresh and energetic, ending with grainy tannins and a lightly chewy feel." Wine Spectator

"Sweet red fruit on the nose and palate, together with a sandy mineral note. Medium-to full-bodied with very fine, lightly firm tannins and a clean, focused finish. More delicate character in 2018. Best from 2024." James Suckling

"The organic 2018 Barolo Brunate is angular and firm. Despite the softer character of the vintage, you still feel the tannins and the structure of this celebrated MGA site. There is balsam herb, dried lavender, rose and candied cherry. The wine is generous and round." Wine Advocate

"Despite a moderate acidity - which is due to both the vintage and the southern exposition of Brunate - this Ceretto shows a compelling, delicious character. Liquorice, smoky woodland notes, dried cherry, tar, cinnamon and tea leaf aromas are loaded with red currants and strawberries. Full bodied, it has slightly oaky tannins and a dusty yet ripe finish. Filigreed elegance." Decanter

After much anticipation, today we present the second vintage of an exceptional Sangiovese from Querciabella's single vineyard Ruffoli.

Back in 2007, the winery embarked on the cru project with the aim of emphasising the natural elegance and vitality of Sangiovese and the essential value of what the Latins call the "genius loci". What began as an experiment and a challenge evolved into years of constant but calculated work to identify the best vineyards in Chianti Classico. The best winemaking and ageing methods were then applied to enhance the particular influence of the origin on the texture, flavour and character of the wine.

The altitude of over 500 metres above sea level identified in this way gives the wine great depth, balance and brilliant acidity. This great Sangiovese acidity combined with well-ripened tannins, excellent structure and just as much flavour make 2018 one of the most balanced vintages of the last decade. The slow maturation in wood for around 18 months reinforces the site-specific identity of the grape variety and brings a Chianti Classico to the glass that deserves the designation Gran Selezione like no other. SUPERIORE.DE

"Again focuses on the charming side with plenty of sweet fruit and a velvety drinking flow, with herbal notes alongside the red berry fruit flavours." Weinwisser

"Bright ruby red colour. Nose of precious wood, rich wild berries, citrus, cherries, toast, liquorice, eucalyptus, after some time coconut. Polished on the palate, with juicy, tightly meshed tannins and well-developed fruit, currently still with some wood overhang, coconut on the final." Falstaff

"This is my first tasting of a Gran Selezione from Querciabella. The 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Querciabella sources its fruit from the Ruffoli estate in Greve in Chianti, whose vines are planted on slate-rich galestro and sandstone soils at a cool altitude of 500 metres. This vintage is open and accessible, with warm fruit, tobacco, gravel and dried roses. There is a hint of soft, ripe cherry." Wine Advocate

"Sweet plums and damsons with a balsamic note. Juicy and delicate with fine-grained tannins that frame the wine beautifully." Decanter

"The Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2018 is a powerful, dense wine. The frost in 2017 affected the potential yield of the next vintage, which probably explains the sheer intensity of this wine. Dark cherry, plum, mocha, leather and sage all saturate the palate. The wine has tremendous creaminess and depth. I can't wait to see how the 2018 ages, as it's a pretty big wine by Querciabella standards." Vinous

"This wine has aromas of dark plum, peach, bay leaf, mint and vanilla. It is medium to full-bodied with a deliciously complex palate. Beautiful interplay of stone fruit, herbs and spices. Long and elegant, with very fine and concentrated tannins. Fantastic purity." James Suckling

"The second vintage of an ambitious project, from the only Ruffoli vineyard cultivated using biodynamic methods, an exceptional Gran Selezione. Wild plum on the nose, with notes of chinotto and bay leaf, then nutmeg. Spicy on the palate, with a fruity, citrusy finish and a long finish." Luca Gardini

Bright and radiant, with lots of Nebbiolo character, it is a successful interpretation of the terroir and shows the great class of the winery. On the nose, sweet red cherries, tobacco, mint, anise and white pepper. Medium-bodied and graceful on the palate with a good balance of perfume, acidity and structure. With further bottle ageing, it looks forward to a great evolution. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium-light red; fruity-smoky, also barrel, caramel, rubber, inviting; fruit, medium-bodied, powerful, lots of round tannin, length." Merum

"Sparkling, medium-dense ruby garnet. Inviting, very finely marked nose with pronounced notes of wild raspberry, rosehip and black tea. Substantial, with pithy tannin on the palate, showing lots of pressure, savoury, lingers long." Falstaff

"Straight medium ruby. Perfumed cherry fruit with subtle oak and a hint of cumin. Fresh, supple cherry fruit with a spicy note and firm but ripe and crisp tannins. Great length and juiciness." Jancis Robinson

"A rich, earthy style that evokes aromas of cherry, raspberry, iron and tobacco. Broad tannins announce the finish, but it remains balanced and long." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Barbaresco Pio is noble, elegant and wonderfully polished. Sweet spices, cedar, tobacco, leather and dried cherries open up effortlessly. This graceful, medium-bodied Barbaresco has a lot going for it and is very drinkable from the start. The silky, ethereal qualities of the Nebbiolo are evident." Vinous

"Pio Cesare stands out for its classics, and this wine is one of them. The 2018 Barbaresco (released a year later than its competitors) offers a light ripeness of candied raspberry with lilac, tarry smoke, cedar and spice. The mouthfeel is silky smooth with gently integrated tannins." Wine Advocate

"Strawberries with notes of walnuts, asphalt and bark. Also dried flowers. Full-bodied with fine, racy tannins and a very long, beautiful finish. Fine tannins. Shows excellent length for the vintage." James Suckling

"The Barbaresco of Pio Cesare, always a certainty, from the Treiso and San Rocco sub-areas. On the nose, red currants in jam, with nuances of star anise and rhubarb. The mouthfeel is crisp, dense, with spicy tannins and a fruity finish." Luca Gardini

The grapes for Gaglioles Riserva come from vineyards in Panzano that used to belong to Le Cinciole and neighbouring Gagliole. Dark and full-bodied in the glass, it shows the full range of the Conca d'Oro area of Panzano, but does so in a pleasantly restrained style that is typical of the elegant 2019. Currently still very young, in a few years it will be much more enjoyable. SUPERIORE.DE

"Harmony and depth in this version that bears the ancient name of this beautiful farm. Complex nose, blackberries and blueberries together with mentholated touches and floral nuances, of carnation, dense and taut mouth, savory tannins, juicy finish, with mentholated-floral return." Luca Gardini

"Beautiful aromas of roses and other flowers, together with fresh cherries and lemon rind, following through to a medium body with freshness and vivid intensity to the finish. Spicy at the end." James Suckling

"Only in its second vintage, the certified organic Gagliole 2019 Chianti Classico Riserva addresses the need for a category that sits between the entry-level reds and the high-end Gran Selezione wines. Fruit is sourced exclusively from Panzano for an intense ruby color shaded by elegant darkness. Aromas recall blackberry, graphite, flint and white pepper. This wine prizes freshness, a streamlined mouthfeel and those pretty mineral notes that drive a very long and polished finish." Wine Advocate

Finely layered aroma of rose petals, red cherries, flowers, herbs and spices. Wonderful tension between primary aromas of fruit and secondary aromas of ageing in large oak. Elegant, full-bodied and muscular on the palate, impressive depth and silky tannins, long and intense. Excites already today and with a promising future. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Le Lucere Riserva blends dusty ripe cherries and earth tones, with notes of sage and exotic spice to form a slightly extroverted yet gorgeous display. It boasts creamy textures cast across a medium-bodied frame, yet it's wonderfully balanced by zesty, mouthwatering acidity. Cherries, blackberries and currants can all be found here, along with salty minerals adding a tactile feel under an air of violet florals. This is tamed by fine tannins through the finish, ending with a youthfully restrained yet fresh display. The 2015 Riserva is packed full of character and fruit-forward, it's sure to have a lot of fans." Vinous

"The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva le Lucére reveals rich and well-concentrated fruit with blackberry, prune and plum. The bouquet also has a moment of scorched earth or toasted oak that is quite developed and, to my palate, subtracts from the purity of the fruit. It is only made in the best years, and this edition saw 4,000 bottles produced. There are soft cherry notes on the finish." Wine Advocate

"Floral, black cherry, black currant, spice, earth and mineral flavors abound in this appealing red. Smooth and lively, offers excellent balance and a lingering aftertaste, with a complex finish that is resonant and promising." Wine Spectator

"The opulence and decadence is really something here with dried fruit, figs, meat and black truffles on the nose and palate. It's full-bodied, layered and creamy with intense, round tannins and a finish that lasts for minutes. Best after 2022, but already a joy to taste." James Suckling