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Arianna Occhipinti's new white wine is a 100% Grillo and comes from a vineyard located 490 metres above sea level and surrounded by pine forests, oaks and centuries-old olive trees. The soil of Contrada Santa Margherita consists of sandy calcareous marl of a whitish colour and yellowish-white calcarenite, all marine sediments dating back to the Pleistocene. These soils of the Monti Iblei at the foot of the small municipality of Chiaramonte Gulfi give the wine an impressive complexity and saltiness.

Pale yellow in the glass, intense bouquet of citrus notes, accompanied by spicy vegetal notes and white flowers. A fantastic balance of alcohol and acidity on the palate, impressive complexity that only reveals itself with time, with a beautiful length and a dry, mineral finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"This Grillo is really vertical and focussed, almost austere, with spicy, juicy stone fruits hidden among straw, hay, flowers and lanolin notes. A stylish interpretation of this grape variety." Decanter

"The Grillo Contrada Bianco SM 2021 opens with a dark golden colour and macerated aromas of grape skins and honey. The wine has a very fragrant side, as you would expect from a young Grillo, with white rose, jasmine and peach blossom. The wine is very full-bodied, with plenty of freshness, crushed stone and a creamy texture. There is also a hint of dried apple skin." Wine Advocate

"Dark yellow, golden in colour with a green shimmer. Aromas of dried apples, apricots, rose soap and camomile. Full-bodied with a multi-layered texture of phenols and apple skin. Flavours of apple crumble and cream. Also some honey. It's definitely a skin contact wine, but not over the top. Drink it now." James Suckling

"The 2021 Contrade SM is a varietal Grillo with a deep golden-yellow color. The bouquet evokes musky dried peaches, apricots, sweet herbs and ground ginger. It’s soft-textured, with zesty acidity and saline minerals up front that give way to vivid yellow apples and savory spice. This finishes long, dry and lightly structured, yet harmonious, displaying all the components necessary for a steady evolution, as a bitter tinge keeps the mouth watering for more. This is a fascinating Grillo that exceeds expectations. Two thousand and twenty-one is only the second vintage of Contrade SM, which hails from a vineyard planted in 2016 at 500 meters in soils of sandy calcareous marl." Vinous

The vineyard on the western side of the Montalcino hills is so secluded that you can enjoy the starry sky to the full without being disturbed. It is therefore not surprising that this supple, very classic Brunello bears the name "Sky of Ulysses". As is well known, Odysseus had the ability to navigate the seas without a compass and by simply orientating himself by the stars.

Deep dark ruby with light-coloured inclusions. The bouquet is a potpourri of aromas that unfold almost endlessly, with floral notes of light roses and white flowers alongside black and red fruits. On the palate, power, flavour and a freshness that, together with the well-proportioned tannins, suggest a harmonious and exciting development! SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful, rich ruby colour with a fine garnet sheen. Opens on the nose with intense, quite mature fruit notes of dried plums, preserved cherries, liquorice and some leather. Also reveals itself on the palate with clearly matured tones, grippy tannins, then clear malty components in the final, already appears very mature." Falstaff

"Deep, youthful ruby red colour. Deep raspberry fruit nose with mineral notes. Lots of concentrated, juicy fruit, yet complex, multi-layered and with gripping tannins. Has everything you need, yet retains an elegant weight on the palate. Impeccably balanced. Irresistible." Jancis Robinson

"The Brunello di Montalcino Cielo d'Ulisse 2018 smells of violets and roses as well as dried blueberries and a hint of smoke in the glass. It feels silky and cool, with a racy acidity that accompanies the tart wild berry fruit. Blue and purple flowers, liquorice and chalky tannins accompany the 2018, which finishes lightly structured and long. Podere Le Ripi has managed to maintain the balance and energy in this wine. The Cielo d'Ulisse comes from the vineyards of Podere Le Ripi in the south-west of Montalcino, but the vines are surrounded by woods that balance out the warmth of the location." Vinous

"The Podere le Ripi 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Cielo d'Ulisse shows a spicy character with cloves and white pepper. These notes are faint, but they help to support the dark layers of dried cherries and blackcurrants. There is a hint of sour fruit on the finish of this medium-bodied Brunello. The structure of the wine is lean and fine." Wine Advocate

"The nose begins savory and earthy before sweet cherries and bitter espresso start to sparkle. The palate is full of black cherries and figs, with a bolder coffee flavor reappearing on the finish. The tannins are chalky and dense, while marvelously intense acidity persists through the finish." Wine Enthusiast

Merlot Voos dai Ciamps smells seductively of ripe cherries and plums, complemented by sweet herbs and tobacco. Its silky texture is consolidated by bright acids and inner spice in a savoury expression, while notes of tart red and blue berries pour over its mineral core. The finish is long and lightly textured, leaving earthy tones, hints of lavender and citrus for a characterful final. SUPERIORE.DE

Bright ruby red colour. Fine bouquet with aromas of red cherries, raspberries, savoury herbs and flint. Then rich and ripe in the mouth, with harmonious, peppery acidity that gives the red and black fruit flavours lift and support. Very complex on the palate, enormously juicy and with the power and persistence for a very respectable finish and a long life. SUPERIORE.DE

"Floral and fragrant on the nose, this enticing red shows a beam of plumped cherry, with hints sandalwood, anise and clove, plus notes of fresh earth and mineral. Framed by creamy tannins and racy acidity, this expands on the palate and lingers on the finish." Wine Spectator

"Here's a new wine from Michele Faro and the team at Pietradolce. The 2019 Etna Rosso Contrada Feudo di Mezzo offers a soft entry to the palate with an open texture and more accessible fruit compared to some of the other Contrada-specific wines from this estate, such as Contrada Rampante and Contrada Santo Spirito. The wine finishes with silky tannins, wild berries, roses and crushed stone. A sweet violet can also be recognised. Only 1,000 bottles were produced." Wine Advocate

"Rich and earthy, with balsamic flavours of black cherries and red berries, it is very juicy, tasty and intense in the mouth. Vertical and savoury hedgerow fruits are accompanied by woody and spicy notes, refined tannins and this beautiful balsamic line that runs through it." Decanter

The mineral-rich Archineri from the ancient Carricante grape variety is quite exquisite. With great clarity and freshness, it displays its typical flavour profile of crushed rock, apple, banana, peach and citrus fruit. Fascinatingly dense on the palate with a velvety texture, a hint of chalk and a long, complex mineral finish. Pre-Phylloxera = from ungrafted vines! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright straw yellow in colour. Aromas of yellow peach, persimmon, medlar and delicate hints of flint on the nose. Soft, subtle palate, initial aromatic thrust, fresh texture and long finish." Falstaff

"Tightly meshed and fresh, with raw silk–like texture carrying finely detailed notes of nectarine and yellow plum, verbena and chamomile, chalk and brine. Elegant." Wine Spectator

"Sourced from vines up to 120 years old, this is a gorgeous white with lemon and savoury green fruit flavours that combine with a full structure and plenty of juiciness. The finish is long, stony and savoury, with juicy notes of sweet pineapple, yellow plum and peach. Delicious!" Decanter

"The 2021 Etna Bianco Archineri is a beautiful wine with the crystalline luminosity and bright flavours you look for in a wine from Etna made from the popular Carricante grape. In this case, the fruit comes from vines from before the phylloxera plague at an altitude of 900 metres. There is a certain saltiness and crushed oyster shells with grapefruit, unripe peach and green apple." Wine Advocate

Brilliant, brightening ruby-garnet colour. Spicy notes of wild berries, liquorice, flint and traces of thyme on the nose. Beguiling extract sweetness on the palate, with a juicy and racy freshness and fine, tight tannins. Fine salty components on the final, already very polished and supple with further interesting ageing potential. Around 4,000 bottles were bottled. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2019 Etna Rosso Santo Spirito is shy in the glass, with a delicate blend of dusty earth, dried roses and strawberries. It flows across the palate, a model of purity, with mineral-tinged red fruits and pretty inner flowers. The finish is lightly structured, with a hint of bitterness and chalk tannins. The 2019 is an understated interpretation of Santo Spirito." Vinous

"Well-spiced, with a minerally underpinning and tightly meshed notes of black raspberry, singed orange peel and licorice string, plus a hint of espresso crema. Fresh and firm on the lingering finish." Wine Spectator

"Aromas reminiscent of cocoa, eucalyptus and Mediterranean scrub as well as a hint of sea brine characterise the nose. On the palate, polished tannins accompany raspberry compote, blood orange and liquorice before finishing with notes of salt and crushed mint." Wine Enthusiast

"The grapes for the Pietradolce 2019 Etna Rosso Contrada Santo Spirito come from old, branched Nerello Mascalese vines from the time before the phylloxera plague. The wine is well-balanced with plenty of fruit and ashy spice. It is immediately reminiscent of the impressive volcanic environment from which it originates. The tannins of this wine are fine and polished. The production is 4,000 bottles." Wine Advocate

"Tantalising and complex, earthy aromas of wild strawberries, orange peel, blood oranges, spices and garrigue lead to an intense but elegant palate. The wine is light on its feet, its spicy, red fruits are carried by fine tannins that dry out slightly on the finish." Decanter

Se is a pure Primitivo, from somewhat younger vines than the Es and is the youthful-fresh, but no less elegant counterpart to the Es. Se smells very aromatic of cherry, strawberry and maple blossom. Modern style on the palate, juicy texture, all components fascinatingly coordinated, long and lively. SUPERIORE.DE

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

"Light red; full-bodied, depth of fruit, inviting; juicy attack, depth of fruit, powerful, juicy, full-bodied, good tannin, pleasing." Merum

"Sparkling, brightening ruby colour with garnet rim. Finely characterised nose, with notes of pomegranate and raspberry, fine spice in the background. Lots of fine-meshed, present tannins on the palate, builds up in many layers, salty and profound, very long finish." Falstaff

"The story of Alberelli di Giodo on Mount Etna with winemaker Carlo Ferrini began with the first vintage in 2016. Eight small handkerchiefs, located at an altitude of 700-950 metres, together make up just over one hectare. The valuable vines from the time before the phylloxera plague have survived for 80 to 100 years and are cultivated according to the old Alberello system (bush training) typical of Mount Etna. The wine is fermented and macerated in open steel tanks, with gentle racking, but without pumping over. The wine is bright ruby red in colour, with the smoky and mineral character of Nerello Mascalese, full of restraint with pomegranate and wild strawberry fruit character. Super refreshing thanks to its lively fruit and acidity, it has chewy, velvety tannins on the palate with plenty of youthfulness." Decanter

"The purity of the fruit is here with strawberries, lemon peel and floral undertones. Transitions to cranberry. It's medium-bodied with firm tannins and a bright, lively and linear finish that keeps the palate clean." James Suckling

Sandro Chias Annata presents itself taut, forward and downright bold in the glass. On the palate, its natural richness and lushness of fruit is convincing, complemented by varietal elements of wild cherry, blue flowers and soft earth. Then, in quick succession, secondary aromas of tobacco, cedar and cinnamon surprise, giving complexity and personality to the wine built up in many deep layers. This Brunello has wonderful potential for further bottle ageing, but it is already an absolute delight and the quality of the fruit and its length make it irresistible. SUPERIORE.DE

"Delicate bouquet of red berries, flowers and undergrowth; juicy in the mouth, compact, the tannins robust, nice melting, fine-meshed tannins, good length." Vinum

"To the northwest of Montalcino, Castello Romitorio’s vineyards are surrounded by thick woods receiving moderate sun exposure. The relatively cool setting was an advantage in 2017. Well put together with a graceful flow, this Brunello echoes its setting and opens with pronounced cedar and evocative forest floor accents. Neither heavy nor over-concentrated, the palate is replete with pulpy red berries. There is a succulence to the fruit and a silkiness to the texture, and nuances of pulverised stone weave throughout." Decanter

"The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino is dusty, dark and floral at first, but with time, it becomes exotic and spicy. Black cherries lifted by minty herbs and camphor give way to floral undergrowth and tobacco as the 2017 gains in volume with each swirl of the glass. It’s silky-smooth and pliant yet shows remarkable purity and cooling acidity, as you perceive its red and hints of blue fruit slowly drenching the palate, leaving salty minerals and a coating of primary concentration. The long, penetrating finale mixes fine tannins and nuances of sour citrus in a powerful yet wonderfully balanced expression of the Romitorio vineyards." Vinous

"The Castello Romitorio 2017 Brunello di Montalcino comes from an estate that is quickly becoming a leader in a special niche of the Montalcino market. The wine is modern and soft, showing lots of contained ripeness and creaminess, yet it successfully embraces the fundamentals of the appellation and Sangiovese, thanks to its bright acidity and finely tuned structure. Few wines reach this level of precision, especially in a challenging vintage such as this." Wine Advocate

Medoro's famous top-quality Montepulciano Adrano, which elegantly and typically spreads a fine fruity aroma. The taste is led by a rich fruit that is excellently embedded in a full, deliciously spicy structure. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2015 Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Adrano lifts up with an alluring display of crushed black cherries, sweet spices, violet florals and a hint of vanilla bean. This is silky and elegant in texture, contrasted by brisk acids and balsamic-tinged black fruits. Fine tannins linger, framing the expression nicely as the Adrano finishes savory with tart wild berries and minerals." Vinous

"The Villa Medoro 2015 Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Colline Teramane Adrano shows a classic aromatic profile with dark fruit tones followed by leather and mild tobacco. This wine ages in oak for 12 months, and the impact of that wood emerges mostly in terms of the rich and slightly dense texture of the mouthfeel. Those contrasts between dark fruit and oak spice are nicely played, and they are perfectly suited to a rib-eye steak." Wine Advocate

Pisapola from the vineyard of the same name in the municipality of Verduno offers a beautiful richness of texture and an impressive softness. This wine is open and honest, with an approachable style that highlights red cherries, undergrowth, wild berries and roses in a very harmonious way. The tannin is precisely measured, and on the finish, its harmony and balance are again inspiring. Not a powerhouse, it brings out the character and elegance of this great Nebbiolo site all the more amiably and authentically. SUPERIORE.DE

"Tasted blind. Medium ruby red with orange reflections. Compact and still reserved nose with a hint of Moroccan leather. Supple and generous palate that doesn't quite open up yet. Polished, chewy tannins that taste of liquorice. Long, but needs more time in the bottle to reveal its hidden depths." Jancis Robinson

"The 2016 Barolo Pisapola is the most airy and perfumed wine in this range. Crushed flowers, mint, cedar, sweet pipe tobacco and red berry fruit grace this finely meshed, medium-bodied Barolo. The 2016 is understated, stylish and very pretty." Vinous

"Enticing aromas of macerated cherry, licorice, leather and spice greet the senses, with sweet fruit, licorice, tobacco and spice flavors. Balanced and open, this is will be approachable soon, yet also has the structure to age." Wine Spectator

"The Ascheri 2016 Barolo Pisapola is the most immediate and approachable wine from Matteo Ascheri's series of single-vineyard wines, which makes perfect sense given the geologically younger Tortonian marl and Messinian limestone of the site. The Pisapola site is in Verduno and the wine shows a loose, thin texture characteristic of this subzone. The bouquet is subtle and elegant, although the overall intensity of the wine is lower compared to some of the better-known comuni or villages in the Barolo appellation. It offers a mild structure and a silky finish." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of roses, wild berries, scrub and new leather characterise the elegant nose. The savoury palate mirrors the nose, with ripe Marasca cherry, liquorice, menthol and a mineral note reminiscent of rusty nails. Taut, fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity give support, while a hint of game signals the finish." Wine Enthusiast

Besides Fragore, the Etna Cru, named after the Contrada Marchesa single vineyard of the same name, is Donnafugata's second top wine from the volcano. Its label is adorned by a volcano goddess decorated with flowers and fruits, beside her, the medieval village Castiglione di Sicilia appears. The Nerello vines grow on a lava soil rich in minerals, the location in the north of the volcano ensures moderate summers with strong temperature fluctuations between day and night.

This single-varietal Nerello presents itself in bright ruby red and reveals a generous bouquet of small red berries, spicy notes (cinnamon and black pepper) and undergrowth, followed by balsamic nuances and a delicate mineral vein. On the palate, besides its structure, the indescribable balance, the convincing freshness and an ultra-fine tannin delight. This great wine glides aristrocratically and full of elegance into a deep finish. SUPERIORE.DE

Bianco Trinoro is made from 100% Semillon from a tiny sandy plot in the highest locations of the Trinoro winery. The parcel is located at about 600 metres above sea level and covers about 5,000 square metres. The vineyard was partially planted in 2001 and completed in 2006 with vines from Bordeaux; here, as elsewhere on the estate, the vines are densely planted one metre apart in the Bordelais style.

Very aromatic with ripe, fruity notes balanced by a nice freshness and acidity, great length and a very good ageing potential! SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling straw yellow with slight green reflections. In the nose with a delicate muscat tone, a small potpourri of citrus and stone fruit, reverberating with green peppers. Medium weight on the palate at the start, has fine juiciness, then builds more and more on the tongue, with good length and a slightly salty finish." Falstaff

"Only in its third year, this Semillon-based white is a relatively new experiment for a vintner who has made important strides in modern Italian red wine. The Tenuta di Trinoro 2019 Bianco di Trinoro is beautifully smooth and silky rich in texture. The intensity of the mouthfeel gives momentum and a lasting flavor profile. Orchard fruit, pear, apricot and fleshy apple segue to a mild point of mineral or crushed stone. The fruit is harvested from one of the estate's highest plots with sandy soils. Production is only 2,446 bottles." Wine Advocate

Fornacinas Riserva 2015 is a bold and powerful wine that makes a great first impression. The wine is never shy or reserved. It offers intensity on two levels: On the one hand, it offers a wonderfully firm structure with plenty of warmth and harmony. On the other hand, it convinces with textural richness and wonderful secondary aromas that come with three years of oak aging. The tannins will tolerate another one or two years of bottle ripening to become even softer and more relaxed. SUPERIORE.DE

"Firmness and finesse with blackberry and black-cherry aromas and flavors. Some walnut and wet-leaf undertones. It’s medium-to full-bodied with fine, succulent tannins that follow through nicely." James Suckling

"Balsam notes with cola, rosemary and lavender essence lift gently from the bouquet of the Fornacina 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva. This wine is made with organically farmed fruit. As it opens in the glass, you get a clear picture of the dark fruit at its core and of the delicate limestone dustings that frame the bouquet. This wine draws its fruit from a five-hectare parcel with Alkaline soils rich with numerous mineral components. The complexity of the soils is reflected in the bouquet, and this warm vintage expression delivers ample structure, velvety tannins and lasting intensity." Wine Advocate

The grapes for Mastrojanni's Brunello come from a 14.4 hectare south-facing vineyard with loamy soils and lots of boulders. The rich bouquet is characterised by red stone fruit, baking spices and hints of rum cake. Dark and velvety on the palate with great appeal and precision. It is already accessible when young and interprets the classic 2018 vintage in an authentic way. SUPERIORE.DE

"Ripe red and black berries with a hint of plums, smoke, nuts, some bread crust and hints of coffee grounds on the nose, somewhat tobacco and barrel wood. Ripe, melting, partly preserved, juicy fruit with clear plum tones, crumbly tannin, nutty and slightly cocoa-spicy wood notes, persistent on the palate, certain alcohol warmth, some bite, good depth and excellent substance, a hint of salt in the background, hinted ethereal spice of herbs, pepper and juniper, very good to long, firm, rather juicy finish with fine spice." Wein-Plus

"Bright ruby red colour. Fragrant, open-hearted nose of blood orange, mint, sealing wax, blackberry, with a Mediterranean herb aftertaste. Clear and radiant on the palate, with a savoury red fruit core, fine-meshed tannins and a great salty undertone, flows beautifully." Falstaff

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino exudes a savoury and smoky blend of rich cherry sauce, wilted violets and grilled herbs. It is round and almost juicy in character, with a strong wave of ripe red fruits and autumnal spices that leave a collection of fine tannins in their wake. The 2018 finishes youthfully structured, with nuances of sour citrus and salted liquorice slowly fading away." Vinous

"The nose leans savory and earthy, with aromas of coffee, balsamic, soil and tomato leaf, but undertones of black cherry and vanilla flourish with time. The palate is heavy with sweet, juicy cherry notes that are lifted by a swirl of chocolate and vanilla, but a blast of salt and bright acid create an almost jumpy sensation." Wine Enthusiast

"Bright cherry on the nose with dried flowers of violets and lavender. Smooth on the palate, velvety tannins and an expressive finish." Decanter

"This rich, round red wine is characterised by plum and cherry fruit, with notes of wild rosemary, juniper and stony minerals. Tightly wound, with an edgy, steely finish that lingers nicely despite the assertive tannins. Shows good energy." Wine Spectator

"The Mastrojanni 2018 Brunello di Montalcino with the red wax seal on the front of the bottle shows dark fruits, dried cherries, orris root, savoury spices and crushed stone. The wine displays a classic aromatic profile for Sangiovese from Montalcino. Otherwise, the wine is silky and soft with integrated tannins." Wine Advocate

"Historic winery capable of renewing its own versions of Brunello in terms of flavour freshness. Black raspberry on the nose, a hint of thyme and peony, with notes of nutmeg. The mouthfeel has salty tannins, a fruity-floral return and a nice flavour tension. Persistent." Luca Gardini

Barolo Paesi Tuoi was named after the novel by Cesare Pavese "Among Peasants" from 1941. Wide, warm scent of sour cherries, leather and mint. The expressive taste harmoniously engaging with silky tannins. A cleanly vinified Barolo with potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark glowing ruby red. In the nose of rich cherry and rich strawberry, supported by a pinch of red pepper and some forest fruit. Balanced and juicy on the palate, with smooth tannin and clear fruit, beautiful length, harmonious finish." Falstaff

"Intense aromas of rose petal, violet, underbrush and leather lead the way. Bright and focused, the palate offers red cherry, cinnamon and tobacco alongside fine-grained tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"Dusty, terracotta and berry aromas and flavors. It’s full-bodied and chewy with a solid balance of fruit and tannin. Bitter chocolate and burnt citrus to the dark fruit. Juicy. Two or three years of bottle age will make it even better." James Suckling

Bricco della Bigotta smells of cherries, cinnamon, black pepper and a hint of tobacco. On the palate, great finesse and harmonious balance between acidity and alcohol. Lingers long with character and class. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, deep dark ruby with a slight violet shimmer. Very intense and deep nose of dark wild raspberries and black cherries, in the background cinnamon and some red beet. Round and mouth-filling on the palate, showing lots of ripe cherry fruit, embedded in fine melting, unfolds elegantly and with persistence." Falstaff

"Aromas of baked plum, baking spice and mocha emerge from the glass. The bold, full-bodied palate offers cherry marinated in spirits, white pepper and cocoa alongside smooth tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"Like all the Barberas from Braida in this flight, the alcohol content is recorded at a hefty 15.5% here, but the 2018 Barbera d'Asti Bricco della Bigotta shows a lot more ripeness, sweetness and rich concentration across the board. This expression is just heavier and denser. You sink your teeth into this red wine. There is oak spice and toasted cinnamon, and the wine carries extra fruit weight." Wine Advocate

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The even stricter selection of the grapes in 2017 led to a total of half the number of bottles compared to previous vintages. The result, however, is impressive: An extremely attractive bouquet with earthy notes, only gradually revealing ripe strawberries, spicy herbs, leather and a little coffee. As it progresses, spicy orange peel, sour cherry and mint, followed by salty minerals. The lively acidity ensures that the wine remains fresh and supple despite its compact structure. The initially firm tannins gracefully envelop the pretty fruit core with further aeration, and in the long final we then discover sweet spices and traces of white pepper. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Sassetti Livio Pertimali 2017 Brunello di Montalcino is quite bright and lifted with cherries and fresh fruits that pop from the glass. The primary intensity is radiant in this wine, setting it apart from many of its peers. It covers the palate with mid-weight intensity, nice acidity and silky tannins. The brightness you get here is so attractive now, so I see little reason to wait much longer before pulling this cork." Wine Advocate

"The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino makes itself known with a burst of dusty black raspberries, mentholated herbs, crushed ashen stone and dark flowery undergrowth. Silky-smooth and round in feel, it impresses with a cooling wave of mint-infused wild berry fruits mixed with balsamic spices and wood-smoked salts. While the 2017 doesn’t have the weight and density you’d expect from such a young Pertimali, yet it makes up for it with grace and purity, leaving a light coating of tannins and minerals to mingle throughout the finale." Vinous

"Black cherry and mushroom with some dried flower undertones. Full-bodied with fine velvety tannins and a juicy and succulent finish. The tannins are very polished for a 2017. Try from 2023 onwards." James Suckling

"One of the founding wineries of the Brunello Consortium, an ancient wisdom that proceeds in the line of tradition to realize wines of excellence. The nose is neat and intriguing, with small red fruits, touches of red currant, star anise and undergrowth, with a finish of freshness, on the notes of wild mint. The mouthfeel is juicy and dense, closing with officinal return." Luca Gardini

Pure varietal Chardonnay in the finest Burgundy style in honour of Lidia, the mother of the three Rivetti brothers. Straw yellow with greenish reflections. Delicate, buttery nose of pineapple, peach, with nuances of stone fruit, jasmine and nutmeg. Multi-layered, creamy and dry on the palate, the beautiful mineral vein and subtle lingering fruit accompany this elegant Chardonnay into a complex and long finish. A delicious wine monument that will gain in tension and elegance with increasing maturity. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2019 Piemonte Chardonnay Lidia shows a pretty golden hue and mid-weight texture. That natural structure supports apricot, baked apple, spice and toasted nut. Packaged in a heavy glass bottle, the wine imparts smooth layers of mature fruit that drive a long and elegant finish." Wine Advocate

"A medium-to full-bodied white with aromas of grilled hazelnuts, baked apples, lemon curd, pie crust and buttered toast. Excellent energy and acidity, with a lightly buttery texture and subtle toastiness. Elegant expression." James Suckling

Poggio ai Merli is a single-varietal Merlot that relies entirely on the terroir of central Tuscany and consistently embodies the Castellare style. Pure, clear, with refinement, elegant and free of fashionable monotony. SUPERIORE.DE

"The radiance of the year comes through beautifully in Castellare's 2015 Merlot Poggio ai Merli. Soft and supple, with no hard edges, the Poggio ai Merli is pure seduction. Layers of red/purplish fruit and spice are nicely pushed forward in this fleshy, succulent wine. Naturally, the 2015 needs time in bottle to lose some of its primary fruitiness and develop more complexity. All of the necessary ingredients appear present for that to happen over the coming years." Vinous

"A fresh and fruity wine with dark chocolate and hints of walnut. Medium to full body, bright fruit and a crisp finish. An extremely bright and focused young red." James Suckling

"Polished and harmonious, this red delivers blackberry, plum, cedar, spice and earth flavors. The tannins are exposed on the finish. Just needs time to mellow. Merlot. Best from 2019 through 2032." Wine Spectator

"Tuscany and Merlot make for beautifully matched bedfellows-especially in a reasonably balanced vintage like this. The 2015 Poggio ai Merli reveals a thickly darkened and saturated appearance with inky and blackish purple highlights. The bouquet is surprisingly delicate and perfumed with dark rose, spice, dried cherry and blackberry. In the mouth, this wine is exceedingly soft and luscious. The tannins are soft but the wine offers thick textural layering nonetheless. A mere 3,500 bottles were produced." Wine Advocate

Elegant Pinot Nero with a complex bouquet of blackberry and raspberry, with candied orange peel in the background. On the palate it is clear and straightforward, with fine, polished tannins and a very long final. SUPERIORE.DE

Etna is one of Italy's most fascinating wine regions and Andrea Franchetti is probably the most fanatical producer of this region. In addition there are eighty year old native Nerello Mascalese vines. The Contrada Porcaria site has a thoroughly male personality. Dark, fragrant with ripe fruit and menthol, spices and minerals on the palate with many other facets. The course and the finale are rich, dense and very convincing. SUPERIORE.DE

"Almost a little opulent yet leesy on the nose. Pure, concentrated and succulent raspberry fruit with coating tannins. Long and focused. The most hedonistic of all the Passopisciaro 2015s, at least at this stage." Jancis Robinson

"Aromas of wild berry, Mediterranean brush, menthol and dark spice develop in the glass. Elegant and spicy, the structured, focused palate evokes black cherry, crushed strawberry, star anise and clove while a mineral note lingers on the finish. It's well balanced, with bright acidity and firm, polished tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"A well-knit version, with chewy tannins and juicy acidity meshed with generous black cherry and blackberry fruit and dried thyme, violet, and tarry mineral notes on the creamy finish." Wine Spectator

Laura Brunelli's Brunello is an outstanding reflection of the appellation every year. A floral bouquet, the purest expression of cherry and strawberry imaginable, hints of mint, sage and cedar dust - all are found in its stunning bouquet. The youthful density of the ripe primary fruit contrasts with salty minerality and lively acidity, leaving a cascading and crisp impression on the palate. The 2017 is not yet ready to show all its treasures, instead it impresses with its sheer potential, rejuvenating with fine tannins, hints of liquorice and gorgeous inner flowers. SUPERIORE.DE

"Medium warm red; depth of fruit, spicy, very inviting; sweetness, round, fine, juicy, round tannin, elegant brunello, fruit length, long, pleases very much." (JLF) Merum

"Sweet cherries and berries with some smoke and ash undertones. Medium body with firm, silky tannins that are slightly chewy, but polished and very pleasant for the vintage." James Suckling

"The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino is deeply expressive, showing peppery red berries and pomegranate plus hints of tomato leaf and sage, reminding me of that moment you add fresh herbs to a just-finished ragù. This is pure silk on the palate, rich and pliant, as it slowly saturates the senses with mineral-laced red and hints of blue fruit. Intensely primary and licorice-tinged, it tapers off grippy and classically dry to lasting rosy florals. The 2017 is a bit like a tamed beast of a Brunello." Vinous

"The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino is beautifully bright and stitched up with extreme focus and sharpness. Sangiovese has this gorgeous ability to show linearity and lift, but it remains elegant and tight at the same time. This wine accomplishes all of this, and that's saying a lot given the heat and drought of this vintage. The acidity is bright and the finish is long and smooth with citrusy end notes of blood orange followed by wild rose and lilac. Fruit comes from a 4.5-hectare site with sand and galestro soils." Wine Advocate