Jancis Robinson

Lisini's vineyards are located between Sant'Angelo in Colle and Castelnuovo dell'Abate on the inner edge of the Sesta area and are cleansed by the constant breeze from the Tuscan coast. The stony soils with a significant proportion of limestone and the altitude of over 300 metres help to maintain the freshness of the wines. The 2018 is wonderfully fragrant, almost exotic. Plump red fruits and sweet summer herbs fill the mouth, but instead of being heavy, it is balanced and transparent. The powdery tannins are fine and lead to a long, maritime finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep, shiny ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Very closed and backward on the nose. Cherry on the palate with a slight hint of dried fruit, but much more convincing than it sounds. Long yet restrained on the finish, with fine-grained tannins that only reveal their complex depth at the very end. Skilfully made, and there is more to come." Jancis Robinson

"Warm, fragrant aromas of red berries and flowers open the round; elegant attack, but also with character, melting and good length. Pleasing with its elegant yet powerful texture." Vinum

"Very classic Sangiovese nose, dark cherries, sour cherry (Marasca), fine wood, very classic style on the palate too, incredibly juicy with fine spice and salty hints, compact but by no means rustic, rather balanced and with a lot of structure. Compact juiciness. Wonderful presence, noble elegance, fantastically integrated acidity and tannins. Beautiful piquancy. Stony and firm style. Long-lasting." Weinwisser

"Like a kid in a sweet shop, it's a pleasure to take in the candy, medicinal cherry, blueberry compote and liquorice aromas of the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino. While the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is silky and elegant, it is also racy and full of character, as the red and black berries are complemented by notes of cinnamon, cloves and a bitter hint of cocoa. The 2018 finishes powerful and long, but only slightly structured, which suggests a certain amount of ageing, but also that it is showing off all its skills. Almost a minute passes and nuances of violet pastilles and red sweets still linger." Vinous

"Strawberry liqueur with herbal notes on the nose. Juicy and refreshing, modern in style, but promising for the coming years." Decanter

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino is a wine of medium volume and intensity with dark fruits, ripe cherries, black plums, spices and sweet floral earth. This theme of sweetness continues on the soft, lightly structured palate. The wine is ready to drink in the short to medium term; the tannins are round and ready, and it finishes with bright acidity." Wine Advocate

"Rich and deep, with base notes of plum and loamy earth balancing the flavours of cherry, hibiscus and eucalyptus. Dense, with muscular tannins and a lively acidity to support it. The long aftertaste is reminiscent of earth and Mediterranean scrub." Wine Spectator

"Dark, bright ruby red colour. Fragrant, inviting nose of ripe wild berries, candle wax, fine spicy tones and some liquorice. On the palate, with pithy tannins that beautifully envelop the clear fruit, balanced and elegant." Falstaff

"Dark fruit aromas stretch across the nose but don't entirely mask hints of vanilla, pencil shavings and a salty, peppery stoniness. On the palate, the vanilla escalates to initially further emphasize the dark fruits, before new undertones of bitter orange and meaty umami elements emerge. Acid zips around dense tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"Sant'Angelo in Colle, a wine of excellent juiciness that expresses Lisini's great craftsmanship. Notes of dogwood, then chinotto and juniper. The palate has juicy tannins, beautiful citrus-olfactory nuances and a fruity return." Luca Gardini

Sassicaia 2020 is in one word: magical. Even at a young age, it shows an aromatic richness and intensity that inspires us. The optimal climate has favoured its very Mediterranean character, and so here presents a fresh and very direct wine that delights all the senses. Everything is in its place here and the omnipresent fruit gets an extra place on the podium in this vintage. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium purple red, the bottom of the glass is clearly visible. Intense nose with a hint of iodine. Great spiciness that seems more Tuscan than Bordeaux. Long lasting with a very long finish. Embryonic but convincing that it has a bright future ahead of it. Subtle rather than showy. I wouldn't guess it was 14%. I aerated it and left it in a young wine decanter for an hour and it was a delight. It has more appeal than many previous vintages." Jancis Robinson

"The 2020 Sassicaia is a real beauty and shows great purity, elegance and silkiness. On the nose, it is a typical, noble Sassicaia with the typical liaison of Cabernet and Mediterranean spice, reminiscent of the neighbouring maquis forest. There are notes of lavender, but also Mediterranean herbs such as sage, myrrh and rosemary, refined with dark cherries, cassis, wild berries, graphite, tobacco and earth. Also in the mouth with noble restraint, the fine fruit presence is majestically underpinned by earthy and herbaceous notes, even a touch of olive tapenade resonates. Despite the present fruit, it appears fresh thanks to its penetrating acidity, with a silky texture and an elegant, grippy tannin structure. It is a seductive temptation to drink it young, but it will benefit from a few years of ageing. So patience will be rewarded with more complexity." Weinwisser

"The Tenuta San Guido 2020 Bolgheri Sassicaia appeals to those seeking a more lush, opulent and ultimately approachable wine. This vintage is an accurate reflection of coastal Tuscany, as opposed to a more generic 'Tuscan' wine from other parts of this great central Italian region. You can taste the ripeness and soft fruit weight that come from a coastal appellation with particularly bright light and warm Mediterranean breezes. Sassicaia from the cool vintages is notoriously a reticent wine in its early years, needing a long lead time before it settles into an ideal drinking window. That is definitely not the case here. This wine is beautiful and compelling from the start. It shows a beautiful blend of dark fruits, oak spice, balanced freshness, rich texture, soft tannins and a skilfully controlled alcohol level of 14%. The immediate character of the wine is what makes this vintage stand out and I wouldn't get too hung up on over-ambition for cellaring. The wine is a pure pleasure as it is, with overwhelming primary fruit and high intensity in the near and medium term." Wine Advocate

"A very fragrant Sassicaia on the nose with forest floor, citrus and dark fruits. Blackcurrants. Cedarwood and black tea. Some balsamic. Pine needles. Full and very juicy. Very long, structured and complete. Spicy and energetic with a linear line of fresh tannins and acidity. Very Sassicaia throughout. 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest is Cabernet Franc. Very attractive now in a youthful and vibrant way but this will be better in three to four years. Try it after 2027." James Suckling

"The 2020 Sassicaia is a bold, rapturous wine. Dark, fleshy and expansive on the palate, the 2020 offers scents of blackberry jam, gravel, spices, new leather, liquorice and crème de cassis. The powerful tannins are almost masked by the sheer intensity of the fruit. The 2020 seems to have an added dimension of textural intensity. An intensity that is very appealing." Vinous

"Complex aromas and flavours of blackcurrants, blackberries, iron, sweet tobacco and Mediterranean herbs are the hallmarks of this elegant, exciting red wine, which already reveals a lot, yet seems restrained, as if there are still many facets to discover. It impresses with harmony, freshness and a long finish." Wine Spectator

"The frost damaged the earlier developing Cabernet Franc at the end of March, resulting in lower production but excellent quality fruit. The spring was mild and the summer generally warm, but a rapid acceleration of ripening in late summer forced the team to start harvesting in the first week of September to avoid over-ripening. This traditional blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Cabernet Franc features an intense and balsamic flavour that brings out the character of blackcurrants, dust, leaves and cedar. It is balanced and light on its feet, with super-fresh acidity and a fine-grained, almost imperceptible tannin structure. Ripe and tangy raspberry and blueberry fruit linger on the mid palate, leading to a long, fresh finish with notes of cream and chocolate. This wine will reward ageing into the 2050s, but it will also provide much pleasure in its youth. We recommend storing it in the bottle for at least 10 months before opening it," says Priscilla Incisa della Rocchetta." Decanter

"An - after aeration - increasingly promising bouquet of wild berries, with subtle hints of Mediterranean maquis and truffles; perfectly chiselled texture with youthful, tightly meshed tannins, the acidity provides that certain extra, in the persistent multi-faceted finish lots of fruit, but also spice. Timelessly elegant." Vinum

"Ruby red colour, compact and brilliant. The nose has clear notes of blackberries, with slightly wild notes of marjoram, floral nuances of peony and an iodine-balsamic finish. In the mouth crisp red fruits, tannins that combine well with the fresh-salty component, balsamic and liquorice on the finish, excellent drinkability. A wine that will last a long time." Luca Gardini

Ruby red with violet reflections and black core. On the nose, dark forest berries such as blackberries and mulberries, underpinned by warm undergrowth notes. Then ripe blood oranges and subtle cedary notes. On the palate, it is defined by aromas of liquorice, tightly meshed and low-pitched, the tannin reminds one of the finest dark chocolate and controls the generously juicy fruit with its filigree play. Equipped for many years of bottle ageing, it is advisable to reach for the carafe in its youthful stage. Then it shows itself with stimulatingly tart aromas of dark tobacco and with enormous pressure, dark, dense and rich with an orchestral finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"In the philosophy of our company, the ageing of the wines has always played a decisive role. This is the reason why we are proud today to be able to offer many of the oldest vintages directly from our cellar. We differentiate as follows: In each year we make two bottlings. Younger vintages that we put on the Italian market come from younger vineyards and the wines from the old vines we let mature in our cellar for at least 5 years and then only gradually put them on the global market. For better differentiation, the latter wines bear the seal 'Selezione Vecchie Vigne'. Another important aspect is that all bottles that are more than 10 years old are decanted and individually checked before they start their journey to our customers, re-corked." Emidio pepe

"Shiny medium ruby red with orange reflections. Cool, red-fruity bouquet with spices, hints of iron and tobacco leaves. Cool and lean on the palate with plenty of acidity, grainy tannins and slender red fruits. Finishes with hints of tobacco and rusty nails. Very elegant and smooth." Jancis Robinson

"The 2002 Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Vecchie Vigne seduces the senses with a cool blend of dried strawberries, cinnamon and dusty rose. It washes over the palate with lightness, bright and pure on the palate, with pretty red berries and a subtle hint of flint minerality. The fruit concentration persists, along with gentle tannins and a pleasing burst of inner sweetness as the 2002 finishes with a tension in its cheeks. A lightness of being." Vinous

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.

Brunello 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

"Cosy bouquet of flowers, herbs and black forest fruits; the attack is balanced, harmonious, with juice and suppleness right into the complex finish. convinces with its polish." Vinum

"A fragrant Brunello that convinces with small red and dark fruits and increasingly reveals floral notes with air. Amarena cherry, leather. On the palate, a fine melting style, polished, juicy, elegant, red berry spice and plum. Beautiful drinking flow that is already fun. It still has room for improvement." Weinwisser

"Almost a little developed, barrel-woody and tobacco-like aroma of predominantly black berries, some tar, ash, iodine and forest floor. Clear, straightforward, ripe, almost cool, predominantly red fruit, quite present, fine tannins, a certain acid bite, persistent on the palate, herbal and salty nuances, moderate barrel tones, again a little forest messenger, resinous traces, good depth, restrained power, elegant style, multi-layered, gains transparency and freshness with air, very good to long, firm, tart-juicy finish with fine spice." Wein-Plus

"Bright ruby red colour, radiant. Appealing, open nose of leather, rosehips, blood oranges, with fine precious wood and dark berry notes on the finish. Grippy, firm tannins on the palate, with plenty of juice and finesse" Falstaff

"Brilliant medium ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Balsamic and with just a hint of sour cherry and a touch of spice, and with brooding concentration. A sense of richness on the palate with plenty of cherry fruit framed by delicious, chewy tannins. Lots of depth. Ripe now, but with the potential to age further." Jancis Robinson

"The Vigna del Lago surrounds the Val di Suga winery in the north-west of Montalcino. The gently sloping vineyard lies on clay soil at 280 metres above sea level. The wine is aged exclusively in large Slavonian oak barrels with a capacity of 30 to 40 hectolitres in order to preserve the wonderful purity of the sweet fruit. The 2018 is subtly perfumed and exudes delicate aromas of white flowers and oranges that emphasise the scent of red berries. Light and lively, it is initially more reminiscent of a Rosso di Montalcino, but a powdery texture and its persistent mineral core add complexity." Decanter

"Smooth and juicy, with flavours of cherry, plum, sage and leather. Light and lively, with fine tannins on the finish. Shows excellent balance and length." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna del Lago is perfumed, with crushed blackberries and plums accompanied by minty herbs and a hint of smoke. It is silky-smooth yet racy in style, with masses of tart wild berries accompanied by vibrant acidity. Violet and lavender tones resonate, while the Vigna del Lago finishes structured and slightly chewy with silty tannins and a hint of bitter cocoa that lingers." Vinous

"The nose blends the adventurous aromas of leather, stone and coffee with lighter notes of vanilla, cherries and bitter orange peel. On the palate, a current of blood orange bolsters the cherry element, while the vanilla sweetness pushes back against a swelling bitter undertone. Taut tannins march into a warm finish." Wine Enthusiast

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

"Sparkling ruby, rich to the rim. Intense and appealing nose, very clearly marked, lots of blueberries and dark currants, some blood orange, some liquorice in the background. Grippy, savoury tannin, a bit grippy at the core, lots of dark berry fruit, spreads out steadily, juicy and long." Falstaff

"Gentle and lifted. Hardly noticeable tannins, except for some very fine leather tannins at the very end. Very 21st century and polished. A real statement!" Jancis Robinson

"It may be due to Angelo's aura that the Ca' Marcanda often has something slightly "Barolo-like", but here the whole thing is framed by cassis and cabernet aromas, which then quickly transports you back to Gaja's outpost in Bolgheri. As well as being a little too toasty for me in the past, it's also regularly a little more floral. The 2019 in particular is immensely fragrant, drawing gorgeous blueberry and ripe raspberry notes, with liquorice and orange peel resonating behind. It's often grippy in the mouth too, with trenchant tannins, but is much more precise and juicy in the 2019 version than many a year before. Never liked it so much before." Weinwisser

"The 2019 Camarcanda is a very good example of how much the wines have changed here. Medium-bodied and with good depth, the 2019 Camarcanda is a tightly wound wine that needs a few more years to be at its best. Dark cherry, mocha, new leather, liquorice and spice build nicely, with lovely floral and mineral accents enlivening the finish. The 2019 is stylish, elegant and polished. Give it a couple of years as the tannins are quite intense today, but with air it will mellow nicely." Vinous

"This wine is almost viscous, but remains balanced and lively thanks to the lively acidity. It offers aromas of blackberries, dark plums and blueberries, framed by tar and toasted oak. The finish is both dense and clean, with hints of liquorice. Excellent length and potential." Wine Spectator

"A very nice young red wine with blackcurrant, fresh herbs and hints of cedar and smoke. It is full-bodied yet very polished and refined with a beautiful texture. Extremely long and graceful. Taste after 2025." James Suckling

"Ca' Marcanda is officially a Bolgheri DOC, not a Superiore, but it is handled as if it were a Superiore. The blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Cabernet Franc (there has been no Merlot since 2015) - a small percentage as whole grape - is aged for 18 months in oak (10% new). Volume and liveliness are the hallmarks of this 2019. The nose is super floral, with a graceful aroma of violets, subtle cassis, a smorgasbord of Mediterranean herbs, Bolgheri's signature eucalyptus leaf, and spicy chocolate and tobacco. The palate is full-bodied, with fine, crisp tannins and brilliant acidity. An enticing wine to wait for." Decanter

"This is a great vintage that continues to develop beautifully. Since my last tasting of the 2019 Bolgheri Rosso Camarcanda, I have increased my rating by one point to underline the great potential of this vintage. This wine could legally be a Bolgheri Superiore, but Angelo Gaja prefers not to use qualifying wine terms such as Superiore, Classico or Riserva in his various wine projects that span from Piedmont to Tuscany to Etna. Semantics aside, this is a great wine - certainly one of the best made at Ca' Marcanda - with impressive intensity and balance. Dark fruits and blackberries contrast with spices, tobacco, grilled rosemary and Mediterranean blackberries. The 2019 vintage was characterised by favourable weather conditions and "just the right amount of rain," Gaja said." Wine Advocate

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

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

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

Four years ago, Pio Boffa bought himself a "small" present for his 60th birthday. Not a new set of golf clubs, a picture hanging in the hall, a holiday for him and the family. No. Just a vineyard called Mosconi in Monforte d'Alba, a region of Piedmont where four generations of the Pio Cesare dynasty never gained a foothold. Originally, the grapes from the 10-hectare vineyard were to enhance the quality of his classic Barolo, but after the first barrel samples, it was unmistakably clear to Pio Boffa that this would be at least an equal - if stylistically different - counterpart to the hitherto undisputed flagship Ornato.

Mosconi is more light-footed than Ornato, with red rather than black fruits dominating the nose, along with irresistible liquorice and a juiciness that will immediately earn it a top place in the entire appellation. On the palate, it has a precision that is unparalleled, less punchy than Ornato, but more elegant and subtle. SUPERIORE.DE

"Another transparent ruby red with garnet reflections. Exciting bouquet with distinct notes of blood oranges and candied orange peel, plus finest Dominican tobacco and leather, dazzling and individual. Elegant palate with fresh, cherry-influenced fruit, grippy, punchy, finely chiselled style with silky firm tannin, plus salty mineral nuances in the long finish." Weinwisser

"Bright ruby garnet with brightening rim. Very inviting and clear nose of sweet wild raspberries, cherry and rose petals, some cardamom in the background. Gripping, gripping tannin, shows discreet earthy notes, after truffle and tobacco, very grippy on the final, salty, needs a few more years." Falstaff

"Medium ruby red with orange reflections. Almost explosive minerality on the nose with a hint of sour cherry and a hint of spicy oak. Complex but still restrained on the nose. Wonderfully supple fruit with polished, finely honed but firm tannins almost a little reminiscent of Serralunga. Plenty of stuff to chew on and spectacular, layered flavours on the finish." Jancis Robinson

"Rich, with plum and cherry aromas, this Barolo also shows a spicy side of eucalyptus, liquorice and clove. Shows viscosity in texture as well as excellent balance. It finishes with dense, refined tannins and lingering notes of macerated fruit and savory." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Barolo Mosconi is magnificent. It offers a complex blend of rose petals, dried herbs, iron, graphite, smoke, incense, scorched earth and blood orange, capturing all the complexity that makes the best Barolos from this site so compelling. Powerful and profound, but also very elegant, the 2018 is another fine Barolo from a winery that has made a pretty significant stylistic shift in recent years." Vinous

"Very compact on the nose and palate, with notes of dried red berries, truffle, sous-bois and dried flowers. Full-bodied with a fine tannin structure and a very long finish. Compact and solid. This wine still needs a lot of time to open up, but already shows real class. Try it from 2025." James Suckling

"Compared to the Ornato, the 2018 Barolo Mosconi (with fruit from Monforte d'Alba) shows a tighter and more compact quality with a direct, linear and powerful approach. The bouquet builds vertical intensity, starting with tart fruit aromas and culminating in tar, rusty nails and camphor ash. This aromatic ascent is swift and the wine finishes with a very broad, all-encompassing performance." Wine Advocate

"From soils with a combination of silt, clay and, to a small extent, sandstone, a perfect photo of the terroir of Monforte. Cornel on the nose, with notes of pink grapefruit and clove, mouth with iodine-spicy tannins, crispness and tension, nice persistence." Luca Gardini

Elegant Pinot Nero with a complex bouquet of blackberry and raspberry, candied orange peel in the background. Clear and straightforward on the palate; polished, fine tannins and a beautiful melt in the very long final. SUPERIORE.DE

"Healthy, youthful ruby. An enticing, complex, sweet oak and balsamic red-fruit nose. Juicy cherry and raspberry palate. Elegant and long with super-fine tannins and plenty of freshness." Jancis Robinson

What begins with a seductive bouquet of delicate plums and a hint of mint gains volume and depth as grilled sage and rum-soaked blackcurrants mingle with sweet tobacco and allspice. Its texture is silky and fleshy, accompanied by a nervous acidity, while ripe black cherries and a hint of cranberry sauce create a sweet and sour tension on the palate. The concentration is astonishing, yet the energy remains incredibly high, even if the grippy tannins increase towards the end. Notes of sour citrus fruits, savoury herbs and tart wild berries linger incredibly long in the structured yet remarkably fresh final. Only around 3,000 bottles of this cru are produced and it is a real must-have for all Aglianico lovers! SUPERIORE.DE

"Very dark carmine red colour. The first impression is oak spice, but no sweetness. Spicy black fruits with a hint of smoke. Powerful yet very elegant, fine tannin structure, with the tannins increasing on the finish. Refined and long and yet so youthful." Jancis Robinson

"You certainly won't regret it if you give the Aglianico Siope 2016 some time to open up in the glass. What starts as delicate plums with a hint of mint gains volume and depth as grilled sage and rum-soaked blackcurrants mingle with sweet tobacco and allspice. To be honest, you could get lost in this bouquet. Its texture is silky and fleshy, accompanied by a nervous acidity, while ripe black cherries and a hint of cranberry sauce create a sweet and sour tug-of-war on the palate. The concentration is amazing, yet the energy remains incredibly high, even as the grippy tannins pick up towards the finish. Notes of sour citrus, savoury herbs and tart wild berries linger incredibly long on the structured yet remarkably fresh final. Only 3080 bottles of this cru bottling were produced, and lovers of Aglianico owe it to themselves to discover this wine." Vinous

"Vigna Rionda Riserva is for us every year the Barolo from Serralunga at the peak of its potential. It is the wine we are most proud of. Vigna Rionda, protagonist of the history of our winery, is one of the most sought-after and prestigious cru sites in the entire Barolo area. We are not just talking about microclimate and soil here: Something very special happens on this hill in Serralunga d'Alba, and this something gives the Vigna Rionda Riserva its life and makes it a truly unique wine." Franco Massolino

Barolo Riserva Vigna Rionda is absolutely breathtaking. Deep and monumental in attitude, it captivates all the senses - from start to finish. A whole range of Rionda aromas flow from the glass. Silky yet powerful, graceful yet full of seriousness, the wine captures all the contrasts that make an exceptional Barolo. Rose petals, lavender, red and violet fruits, spices and new leather give this hypnotic Barolo from Massolino its very typical and unmistakable nuances. A great wine! SUPERIORE.DE

"Just medium ruby red. Powerful, concentrated, complex nose that immediately draws you in. Notes of black pepper and a hint of gingerbread, reflecting the warm vintage, but with real verve. Full-bodied on the palate, sweet and tart cherry. Lots of generous but not sweet fruit, contrasted by finely chiselled, polished tannins. It's ripe now but will hold up. Will seduce many." Jancis Robinson

"Notes of wild strawberries and sour cherries with dried flowers and orange chocolate in the background. Medium to full-bodied, very polished and fine-grained, with subtle red fruit notes and a mineral backbone. Even and balanced with a structured finish." James Suckling

"The nose is impressively fresh and lively, with a mix of white pepper, watermelon, wild strawberry and mint leaf. Less restrained than usual on the palate, it is firm, still young and chewy, with brilliant, long acidity and a cherry pit finish. It deserves time to develop more complexity." Decanter

"This is a great wine and although it could do with more years of ageing, there is nothing wrong with enjoying it in the near or medium future. The 2017 Barolo Riserva Vigna Rionda is packed with dark fruit, but it also shows delicate spice with black liquorice and rusty metal. The intensity of the wine and its mouthfeel are great." Wine Advocate

"The 2017 Barolo Riserva Vigna Rionda is simply stunning. The purest essence of Rionda comes through in a captivating Barolo that astounds. Sweet red cherry fruit, kirsch, rose petals, liquorice and blood orange are just some of the many aromas and flavours that rise from the glass. Exotic and racy, the 2017 is a real head-turner." Vinous

"Bright ruby red with a shiny core. Elegant nose, also of red-cheeked apple, minimal hint of peach, then raspberries, cranberries, in the reverberation a hint of precious wood and sealing wax. Tense on the palate, builds slowly, with compact tannin and clear fruit, seems very deep, finishes with salt and great juiciness, very long." Falstaff

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

"In colour, the 2021 appears less dark and viscous than usual. The nose is deep and spicy, with a chocolaty richness, a lot of Merlot presence and aromas of bay leaf, rosemary and incense, as well as banana peel. Very youthful, reductive and full-bodied, very dense in the mouth, with seemingly blunt tannins, firmly fleshed out. The all-encompassing sweetness masks the subtle brittleness in its youth. Wiry acidity, a lot of tannin presence, plenty of wood and very little melting." Weinwisser

"Brilliant and impenetrable purple colour. Lifted, vibrant cassis, blackberry and blueberry flavours with a hint of dusty oak. Juicy and finely moulded around the cassis and blackberry fruit, with gripping tannins that need more time to settle. The whole clearly expresses the excellence of this vintage." Jancis Robinson

"The Orma 2021 is a rich, heady wine. Juicy dark red plums, spice, new leather, mocha and menthol are beautifully interwoven. This lush, flamboyant wine offers a lot of immediacy and appeal." Vinous

"This wine is heady and opulent with a bouquet that delivers swells of black fruit, plum, spice and floral highlights of lilac or blue flower. These aromas are delivered in waves of varying intensity. This is a proverbial food wine that calls for a dish with a high fat content. The freshness is there, and there is considerable fruit weight." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of herbs such as basil and laurel with blackcurrants are followed by a full body with creamy and round tannins and many undertones of coffee beans and walnuts. Powerful, but not over the top. Velvety texture. Fine on the finish." James Suckling

"Bright ruby violet colour. Fragrant, floral, of wild berries and light-coloured resin, cassis, expressive, pure, inviting. Powerful on the palate, with lots of tannin, vibrant, finely juicy, currently still very young, will develop very well." Falstaff

"The great classic of the house, now a staple of the type. Blueberry notes on the nose, a hint of marjoram, cloves on the finish with a slight hint of undergrowth. Crisp and exciting on the palate, with salty-sour tannins, persistent and again with small black fruits." Luca Gardini

This dazzling wine is something for Sangiovese purists and lovers of extreme finesse. It literally vibrates with electric energy and charm. Opening with enticing aromas of roses, violets, berries, ploughed earth and new leather, it is youthfully intense but already a classic at this stage. With its velvety texture, it envelops everything it touches with masses of dark red fruit, liquid violet blossom, notes of lavender and sage, plus a subtle savoury note. Taut, refined tannins and bright acidity ensure a perfect balance and a promising, long ageing potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling ruby garnet colour. Appealing, compact nose of dark cherry and plum, then some tobacco and cigar box, with a background of molasses and balsamic flavours. Spreads out richly on the palate, hearty, pithy tannin that is very well integrated into the overall context, builds steadily towards the final, juicy and with firm pressure." Falstaff

"Deep, youthful ruby red colour. Compared to the estate wine from Il Marroneto from 2019, it is one step higher. Minerals infused with rich raspberry with hints of fresh garden herbs and mace. Wonderfully juicy fruit with enormous focus and amazing, fine, long, deep tannins." Jancis Robinson

"This is a racy wine with deep layers, infinite complexity and a wild, almost mischievous personality. I've noticed other Brunellos imitating this style, but none come close to this one and only. Il Marroneto 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Madonna delle Grazie immediately exudes aromas that are lively, elegant and full of energy. This wine is light and powerful, especially when you consider that it has a unique vigour. Sweet cranberries, coriander seeds, cola, liquorice and white pepper stand out clearly. There is a hint of sweetness that feels like summer is singing from the glass. The mouthfeel is very lively, with great freshness and fine, dusty tannins that coat the whole mouth." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Madonna delle Grazie seduces the imagination with a dark veil of exotic flowers and spices that slowly lifts to reveal dried blackberries and cherries enlivened by a hint of mint and a touch of clove. The silky texture and ripe red berry fruit soothe as a mix of savoury minerals and fine tannins slowly build towards the finish. Structured yet incredibly long and deep, it tapers like a black hole, inward facing and youthfully tense, mingling sweet tannins with soaked plums and balsamic herbs. The 2019 is one of the most energetic yet complex offerings from Madonna delle Grazie I've tasted. I could lose myself in this wine for days." Vinous

"The winery is located on the northern flank of Montalcino on a Jurassic soil, one of the oldest in Italy. An old "botte grande" gurgles, murmurs and bubbles slowly in the cellar. Fermentation here takes place naturally, including malolactic fermentation, exclusively in oak. This 2019 is supple and fresh on the nose, with redcurrants and dark cherries and a graceful depth of incense and smoky woods, sweet violet, cinnamon and orange peel. Vibrancy dominates the palate, with long, powerful acidity and dense, velvety tannins leading to a sweet, lingering aftertaste." Decanter

"Alessandro Mori's Brunello, which in the best sense resembles only himself. Notes of cranberry jam on the nose, with a hint of marjoram and star anise. The flavour is dense and salty, with a hint of freshness and balsamic vinegar. Very long-lasting, spicy finish." Luca Gardini

Le Potazzine is known for its purer interpretation of the Sangiovese grape than elsewhere in the appellation. Thus the 2015 vintage offers a maximum of originality, authenticity and at the same time an unprecedented personality. In the bouquet red roses, forest soil and mushrooms. On the palate, it has a strong, enchanting rusticity, but at the same time, with each sip (and with good aeration), it reveals its depth and complexity. Enormous drinking flow and enthusiasm all along the line in the long, profound final! SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling ruby with lots of garnets. Very compact nose, ripe cherry fruit, with some cloves, appealing. Full-bodied and pithy in the beginning and course, opens with firm, handy tannin, juicy fruit, in the final with bite." Falstaff

"Tasted blind. Mid ruby with orange tinges. Leafy cherry fruit that is still compact and a little closed. Generous sour-cherry fruit and the tannins are persistent but never dominate the fruit. Muscular structure reveals itself even more on the finish, but the whole strikes a near-perfect balance." Jancis Robinson

"A refined and fruity red with plums, oyster shell and porcini mushrooms that follow through to a full body. Tight and powerful with gorgeous fruit and richness." James Suckling

"Fragrant and elegantly structured, this opens with aromas of woodland berry, iris, new leather and wild aromatic herb. The taut, linear palate delivers juicy Morello cherry, ripe pomegranate, crushed mint and star anise framed in firm, polished tannins. Boasting some of the highest vineyards in the denomination, it retains great freshness and balance." Wine Enthusiast

"Le Potazzine 's 2015 Brunello di Montalcino is fabulous. The bouquet is showing an earthy display, with smoky minerals and dark soil tones up front, evolving with time in the glass, as crushed black cherry mixes with wild, savory herbs and dried dusty florals. On the palate, gorgeously ripe red fruits are balanced by a mix of saline-minerals, savory spice and zesty acidity, as fine tannin slowly mounts beneath its pretty inner floral tones. The finish is long with a salty-savory twang of minerals and spice, as hints of hard red candies and a bit of citrus lingers over a core of tannic heft. There is so much to like about the 2015, from its classic and earthy bouquet to its fleshy yet balanced palate and totally classic finish. Simply stunning and so pleasurable." Vinous

"The Le Potazzine 2015 Brunello di Montalcino is immediately bright and energized. The wine is sprightly and lively. This is an elegantly medium-weight wine, but everything is in exactly the right place. Fresh acidity and snappy fruit flavors are followed by lighter touches of rose petal, cardamon, camphor ash and powdered licorice. These aromas are stacked tall and proud. Of special interest is that point of zesty medicinal herb that reminds you of the relatively cool climate and high-altitude positioning of Le Potazzine's vineyards. These special conditions are exactly why this wine performs so nicely in a warm vintage like 2015. The coolness of the growing site offsets the temperatures of the growing season." Wine Advocate

"The Barolo DOCG Parafada is perfect for long ageing and surprising development. Elegant, refined, austere. Vinified in vats, matured in large barrels. Made with Nebbiolo grapes from our vineyard in the MGA Parafada in Serralunga d'Alba." Franco Massolino

Barolo Parafada is fabulous. The natural richness of this site blends with the transparency and class of the 2019 vintage to produce a weightless yet powerful, highly nuanced Barolo that hits all the right notes. On the nose, dark cherry, lavender, spices, mint, rose petals and liquorice. And on the palate, it is the interplay of richness and lightness that elevates the Parafada to the realm of the truly sublime. SUPERIORE.DE

"Almost medium ruby red in colour. Initially, the noble oak is evident on the nose, but with aeration it disappears and becomes a small pinch. Fleshy raspberry nose that is still compact and youthful, but with plenty of depth. Lots of fine, enveloping tannins overlaying the fresh, deep red fruit. Sensational balance between fruit and tannins." Jancis Robinson

"Bright, shiny ruby with garnet colour. Fine notes of blood oranges, candied cranberries and raspberries on the nose, then noble earthy tones and cedar wood. Very grippy and profound on the palate, with rich tannins, somewhat wide-meshed, shows great juiciness, still wants to rest a little." Falstaff

"A rich, juicy Barolo with flavours of fresh cherries, strawberries, roses, iron, tobacco and black pepper. It firms up with fine tannins that leave a chalky sensation on the savoury, mineral finish, showing excellent balance and length." Wine Spectator

"Discreet and youthful, waiting to express all of its earthy charms. Subtly perfumed, with slight florals and expected brisk acidity. Firmly structured, but has ample fruit concentration. Classic style with sour cherry flesh, mineral cherry stone and oak presence. Young, with time on its hands." Decanter

"Wonderful aromas of violets, red roses, raspberries and orange peel follow through to a medium to full body, with chewy tannins and a fresh and lively finish. Needs time to mellow." James Suckling

"The Barolo Parafada 2019 is a wine of enormous inner strength, as if all its energy is directed inwards. Dark cherry, smoke, leather, gravel, scorched earth and liquorice slowly come to life in the glass. The 2019 is dense, powerful and muscular, offering tremendous textural intensity and a brooding, virile vigour. This is one of the best editions I can remember tasting. " Vinous

"One of the most typical crus of Serralunga d'Alba, old vineyards, with medium-textured soils and a strong presence of limestone. The nose has notes of pomegranate, menthol, star anise and a floral finish, with notes of carnation. The taste has spicy-sapid tannins, with a mentholated-spicy return." Luca Gardini

"The Massolino 2019 Barolo Parafada, whose fruit comes from 60 to 65-year-old vines in Serralunga d'Alba, is lively and bright with very beautiful aromas of wild cherries, blue flowers, iron ore and rusty nails. The wine shows a very nice intensity, but always remains balanced. This well-structured Nebbiolo is characterised by its precision and definition. Be patient with this wine." Wine Advocate

Produced only in the best vintages and in small quantities, this Riserva follows the classic promise of a traditional and powerful Brunello that becomes softer and better with age. Brilliant deep red colour. Fragrant aromas of raspberries and blueberries, emphasised by violets, incense and cinnamon. Wonderfully sweet and penetrating on the palate, but light on its feet, with real class and energy, not to mention the powerful minerality of the densely packed flavours of red berries, pomegranate, tobacco and wild herbs. The finish is very long, supple and subtle with very fine tannins. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich in finesse, incredibly multi-layered, very lively nose with a pressing blood orange, citrus fruit, candied cherries, incredibly elegant palate, really pushes forward, powerful, super linear and tightly meshed in the final. Grandiose, salty-mineral style that shows how complex and subtle the 2018 vintage could be. Like a great Barolo." Weinwisser

"Brilliant medium ruby red colour with bright orange reflections. Complex, savoury and full of mineral and salty notes on the nose, while the fruit is still a little closed. Fluid, polished, sweet raspberry and cherry fruit and sweetish tannins. Long and elegant, yet full of fruit." Jancis Robinson

"The Riserva from Poggio di Sotto is selected from a single 30-hectolitre barrel and normally remains in wood for a full 45 months. In 2018, however, the time in barrel was reduced to just 30 months to preserve the freshness and elegance of the vintage, and this really comes through in the wine. With a little coaxing, it emerges from its reductive cocoon to reveal nuances of chestnut and flint, before blossoming with thyme and lavender. Graceful and streamlined, the medium-bodied palate resounds with red cherry, orange peel and an inherent juiciness. The tannins are silky and seamless, and there's an appetising crunch of wild berries on the finish that lingers. With proper decanting, it's delicious now but will continue to charm for at least a decade." Decanter

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is youthfully restrained, exuding a floral blend of sweet herbs, crushed stones and wild strawberries. It's soft and round with a pretty inner sweetness up front and mineral, wild berry fruit driven by juicy acidity. A core of grippy tannins lingers on the perfumed yet nuanced final, while traces of violet pastille fade away." Vinous

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva from Poggio di Sotto was restrained when I tasted it, probably due to a certain awkwardness in such a young sample. This bottle should be given more time, as tasted now, it was definitely poured before its prime. The bouquet begins with austere aromas of oil paintings or waxed antiques, but these quickly fade. An exciting composition of redcurrants, cherry peel, rose petals and floral potpourri then unfolds. On the palate, the wine is very lively, with fresh berry fruit, integrated acidity and fine, chalky tannins. This wine also needs more time in the bottle." Wine Advocate

"For the Barolo DOCG Parussi, we left the confines of Serralunga and opted for a vineyard in Castiglione Falletto. Thanks to the characteristics of Nebbiolo, which is perfectly capable of capturing the differences in microclimate and soil composition and translating them into sensations, the result amazed us. Structured, important, austere. Made with Nebbiolo grapes from our vineyard in the MGA Parussi in Castiglione Falletto." Franco Massolino

Parussi is the most open-hearted and fruity Barolo in Massolino's 2019 collection. It has a striking immediacy and sweetness in the mid-palate. Juicy red and purple berries, spices and mint combine in the glass. On the palate, Parussi is silky, floral and medium-bodied, displaying all the sensuality typical of Castiglione Falletto's Barolos. Best of all, Parussi can be drunk much earlier than the wines from Serralunga. SUPERIORE.DE

"Pure ruby red colour. Great depth of fruit on the nose, with salty and mineral notes. Not quite open, but captivating, fragrant and lifted and with quite a lot of substance. Juicy acidity and still shy fruit. Mineral and with fine, super-long tannins, while the fresh acidity emphasises the ripe raspberry fruit. Wonderful length and juiciness. Fine but powerful." Jancis Robinson

"This 2019 is fully focused on restrained root flavours like rhubarb and liquorice, wrapped in sweet violet, rose, redcurrant and pomegranate. It's quite austere, with a good concentration of blood orange on the finish, but thick, dusty and austere tannins." Decanter

"This pure red exudes rose, strawberry, cherry, iron and eucalyptus flavors. Linear, with a firm spine of tannins and lively acidity for support, this shows excellent balance and length." Wine Spectator

"Very pretty with pure and fresh fruit and concentrated tannins. Medium to full-bodied with ultra-fine tannins and a bright and lively finish. Shows tension and brightness. Flowers and sliced strawberries on the finish." James Suckling

"The Massolino 2019 Barolo Parussi has dark fruits and savoury spices that make for a very firm and compact wine. This is a forward and quite muscular expression with fruit from one of the northernmost sites in Castiglione Falletto. The tannins show a certain firmness that will require a longer ageing period." Wine Advocate

"The Barolo Parussi 2019 is the only Barolo by Massolino from Castiglione Falletto. A wine of absolute grace and refinement, the 2019 is pure seduction. Fresh cut flowers, mint, sweet red berries, orange peel and rose petals rise from the glass. harvestwill discover an elegant, sublime Barolo that hits all the right notes. Don't miss it." Vinous

"The first Barolo from Massolino to be born outside the "borders" of Serralunga, in Castiglione Falletto, with a vinification of great finesse. On the nose, dogwood, a hint of peony and a final touch of fresh rosemary. The palate is crisp, with savoury tannins. Finishes with a fruity aftertaste." Luca Gardini

"The Barolo DOCG Margheria comes from the calcareous soil with a slightly higher proportion of sand than in our other sub-areas, which has a strong influence on its character. It was produced for the first time in 1985 and has great ageing potential. The grapes come from our vineyard in the MGA Margheria in Serralunga d'Alba." Franco Massolino

Barolo Margheria is very refined and elegant, but also classically austere, like so many top wines of the 2019 vintage. Bright red berry fruits, wild flowers, mint, blood orange, rose petals and cinnamon adorn this very beautiful, nuanced Barolo. Margheria is medium-bodied, and despite its austerity, it is very pretty, not to mention incredibly inviting. It will be even better in a few years when the tannins soften. SUPERIORE.DE

"A shade deeper than its classic Barolo of the same vintage. Serious and strikingly deep, peppery nose with spicy, mineral notes, but still somewhat closed in the fruit. With air, it becomes more aromatic and fruity, with notes of raspberries. Characteristic of a cool climate. Juicy and energetic on the palate, with a firm, muscular structure that requires more time." Jancis Robinson

"The delicate aromas and flavors of rose, strawberry and cherry are backed by a layer of dense tannins, with iron, tobacco and eucalyptus notes adding depth as this cruises to a long, expansive finish. Impressive now, this should only improve with age." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Barolo Margheria is a classic Serralunga Barolo. Deep, savoury and wonderfully complex, the Margheria offers a compelling blend of red/purple fruits, sage, menthol, liquorice, dried flowers, graphite and melted road tar. Muscular tannins round off the whole. The 2019 is really impressive." Vinous

"From vineyards in Serralunga d'Alba and sandy limestone soils. The nose is multi-faceted, red cherry, a hint of undergrowth, notes of dog rose and clementine peel. The palate is taut and vertical, with a nice mentholated note, salty and fine tannins, persistence, flavour density and a fruity finish." Luca Gardini

"Intense, sparkling ruby garnet colour. Inviting nose with notes of rose petals, ripe dark cherries, raspberry and some cardamom. Lots of present, dense tannins, very well integrated in fine, sweet melting, long-lasting, savoury." Falstaff

Montosoli lovers will be anything but disappointed by the archetype of the 2016 vintage. In this exceptional year, this special single vineyard shows a beautifully fragrant and floral bouquet that exactly meets the expectations of connoisseurs. Thus, for us, this edition represents the ideal interpretation of grape variety and terroir like hardly any other. The Sangiovese grape sounds bright and audible here from the glass - with nuances of small berries and floral impressions of rose, violet and lavender. In the drink, its complexity and multi-layeredness is rounded off by subtle notes of anise, cola and liquorice sticks. This fabulous wine, which is already inspiring, is always balancingly soft and silky and will - even if one hardly thinks it possible - gain in refinement and expression after a few more years of ageing! SUPERIORE.DE

"Seductive raspberry-scented wine with juice and polish; pithy on the palate, acidity well integrated, tight yet noticeable tannins, pleases with its polish, demonstrates finesse through to the final.With a hearty bistecca." Vinum

"Lustrous ruby. Concentrated cherry nose with an earthy, minerally note and a hint of gingerbread. With aeration more and more minerally. Tangy gentle fruit with the merest suggestion of oak. Gorgeous chewy tannins. Very suave, supple and elegant." Jancis Robinson

"Altesino has been producing a separate bottling from the cru of Montosoli since 1975, though the vines were partially replanted in 2005 and 2016. If Altesino's estate Brunello is almost accessible already, the polished yet intense Montosoli needs time in the cellar to demonstrate its potential. The nose is discreet with violet, bramble and bay leaf taking on earthy, savoury tones as it sits in the glass. Tight and firmly fastened, the palate fuses stony notes of granite with dark cherry. Ageing is in 30hL casks of Slavonian oak." Decanter

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Montosoli pulls you close to the glass with a captivating display of candied citrus rinds, incense and dried roses giving way to rich cherry sauce and a hint of brown spice. It's deeply textural yet youthfully dense, as it first cools the palate with lavender and ripe dark red fruits; yet beneath is a layer of grippy tannins that close the wine down. Notes of licorice, black tea and purple florals linger on the youthfully chewy finale. The 2016 is just a baby today, and it will need a number of years to come fully into focus - but it will be worth the wait." Vinous

"The Altesino 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Montosoli is a true beauty. The wine reveals dark fruit intensity that comes forth as blackberry, plum and summer cherry. In no time, those aromas shift to the savory side of the spectrum with smoke, tar and tobacco. The results are generous and layered, offering the best of what the celebrated Montosoli cru can offer, especially in an ironic vintage such as this." Wine Advocate

"Lovely sweet cherries and heather with some leather and balsamic undertones. It's full-bodied with a velvety and lightly dusty palate. Juicy fruit and pretty orange peel to the berry character. Hints of cedar and meat at the end. Subtle and complex." James Suckling

"Rose, forest berry, underbrush and new leather are some of the aromas you'll find on this full-bodied red. From one of Montalcino's greatest vineyard sites, the firmly structured, elegant palate is also delicious, boasting ripe black cherry, raspberry compote, tobacco and licorice set against taut, fine-grained tannins. It's well balanced, with bright acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"Packed with sweet, ripe cherry, plum and raspberry fruit and framed by loamy earth and woodsy notes, this red is intense, lively and light on its feet. Balanced, with firm tannins and a salty, minerally impression on the lingering aftertaste." Wine Spectator

Barolo Lazzarito impresses every year by its precision and class - two characteristics that are not often found in the Nebbiolo of the Serralunga region. Iron, smoke and white pepper flow into the nose, in the glass these impressions are extended by a touch of pomegranate, red cherry jam, wild flowers and blood orange. Viettis Lazzarito always stands for strength and finesse and has been in no way inferior to his "colleagues" from Ravera and Rocche for quite some time. SUPERIORE.DE

"Just mid ruby. Dark and brooding nose of great depth. Generous and mouth-filling fruit and plenty of acidity adding freshness. A big layer of finely stitched tannins adds structure to the ripe fruit. Concentrated and deep." Jancis Robinson

"This powerful expression of an important Serralunga vineyard is aged both in barriques and large casks. It's deep in colour and shows lush, meaty aromas that at present lack finesse. It's very opulent and savoury on the palate, assertive without being astringent, and has imposing balance and length." Decanter

"The 2015 Barolo Lazzarito is one of the highlights in this range from Vietti. The power and gravitas of Serralunga come through loud and clear in a deep, beautifully resonant Barolo loaded with character. Iron, smoke, sage, menthol, licorice and rose petal give the Lazzarito its beguiling aromatic complexity. The massive tannins need time to soften, but there is a lot to look forward to once that happens." Vinous

"Rich and multifaceted, sporting cherry, raspberry, green tea, iron and tobacco flavors. The sweet fruit is matched to firm, dense tannins and the finish turns austere for now. Everything is in the right proportions, but patience is required." Wine Spectator

"This is a very youthful Barolo that has attractive, fragrant perfume with freshly picked roasting herbs and a strong, central thread of ripe cherries and red plums. The pure and concentrated palate frames intense plum and cherry flavors in long, unwavering tannins that deliver rich, strong and seamless into the finish. Exceptional quality and built for aging." James Suckling

"Opening to a beautifully floral bouquet, the 2015 Barolo Lazzarito delivers fragrant tones of violets, wild rose and a touch of orange blossom. As is the norm at Vietti, I tasted this wine and then wrote this review based on impressions gained from two samples—one opened several hours before my tasting and one opened at the moment of my review. Those floral notes came forth with increased intensity and clarity in the bottle that had been opened longer. The bouquet continues to surprise with touches of black fruit and freshly milled white pepper. However, like many wines from Serralunga d’Alba, this expression from Lazzarito reveals a pretty inner paradox. Those ethereal and balsamic aromas cede to a dense and rich mouthfeel, characterized by structure and power. Those two sides of the wine reach beautiful parity and lasting harmony." Wine Advocate