Vinibuoni

The first Caggiole was launched in 1988 and disappeared again as early as 1995 because the flagship Asinone simply met consumers' tastes better. Today - after more than 20 years of abstinence - the Nobile Le Caggiole is back on the market as the new first wine of the house.

It is salty, mineral and refined. It represents the terroir and the Sangiovese grape variety (Prugnolo Gentile) like no other wine of the house. It is almost light-footed, svelte, delicate and at the same time very fine. It is the result of many years of work with the selection of the right Sangiovese clones in the single vineyard of the same name, Le Caggiole, which consists of 4 plots.

Estate owner Dott. Federico Carletti has dedicated this masterpiece to his wife Anna - setting a new benchmark for Poliziano and the entire denomination. We are very pleased to present this strictly limited top wine! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red. Clear and expressive on the nose, of rich cherries, liquorice, icing sugar and finest spice. Shows itself extremely supple and polished on the palate, spreads velvety over the tongue, with a clear fruit core, long and full of finesse in the final." Falstaff

"Made entirely with Sangiovese, this has aromas of mature black-skinned fruit, exotic spice, camphor and whiffs of French oak. Firmly structured but elegant, the linear palate delivers Marasca cherry, red plum, espresso and licorice framed in tightly knit, fine-grained tannins. Bright acidity keeps it fresh and balanced." Wine Enthusiast

"The Poliziano 2016 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Le Caggiole opens to a dark and sultry appearance, showing a rich and elegant side of the Sangiovese grape. There is a snappy or tart element to the fruit with sour cherry and black plum; however, the wine does not lack for ripeness. There is depth and rich concentration here, giving this wine a step up when it comes to a possible steak or meat roast dinner. The tannins (both the fruit and the oak tannins) are astringent, so give the wine a few more months of bottle aging." Wine Advocate

"Poliziano's 2016 Vino Nobile Le Caggiole is beautifully done. Freshly cut flowers, red berries, mint, cedar and tobacco are all laced together in a pretty, translucent Vino Nobile that is all class. The Caggiole deftly marries power with restraint. There is a lot going on, but the 2016 is not at all an obvious wine. This is a gorgeous and very refined expression of Vino Nobile." Vinous

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

"This is opulent and fresh with cedar, berry, tobacco and orange-peel aromas and flavors. Medium body, firm tannins and a flavorful finish. Precise and powerful center palate. Fabulous length." James Suckling

"With fruit from 60-year-old vines, the 2011 Colore is a precious blend of Sangiovese, Canaiolo and Colorino in equal parts. This is a highly singular wine made in very reduced quantities (only 2,000 bottles were produced). This mid weight expression shows a dark garnet color and moderate luminosity. That muted color is recognized across the very artisanal wines made by Bibi Graetz. The quality of fruit is bitter and raw and there is some sourness on the close. Having said that, enthusiasts will appreciate these one-off wines, especially with regards to how they relate to the strong personalities that create them. Lingering ash, smoke and dark licorice add subtle elegance on the finish." Wine Advocate

Approximately 60% of the grapes for the Monvigliero are not destemmed, this enhances the aromatic nuances of the wine. Youthful notes of raspberry and blueberry are flanked by black pepper, gentian, china and black olives. The palate has a beguilingly soft texture, fine and creamy, underpinned by wonderful laurel and floral aromas. Monvigliero impresses with its purity, its serenity and its class. Excellent. SUPERIORE.DE

"This charming red wine is delicate and smooth, with aromas of cherries, boysenberries, violets and spices, with excellent balance and a lingering aftertaste that reflects the main flavour themes." Wine Spectator

"Lots of dried flowers on the nose with hibiscus and raspberry character. Full-bodied with salty undertones to the pure fruit and citrus flavours. Well integrated tannins. Transparent. Clear." James Suckling

"Alluring aromas of wild red berries, medicinal herbs and sweet and savory spices with subtle tea aromas swirl in the glass. The lifted palate is almost weightless before it gives juicy cherry notes and crushed wildflower flavors, finishing with elegant tannins and nearly perfect acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"The Barolo Monvigliero 2019 is breathtaking. What a wine. Rich, heady and explosive, the 2019 is a beautiful, spherical Barolo that impresses from the first sip. Aromatically broad and expansive, the 2019 unfolds beautifully in the glass. Bright red fruits, orange peel, mint, spice and bright saline notes saturate the palate on the finish. The 2019 is an absolute stunner even at this stage of youthful austerity. Compared to the 2018, it seems a little rustic, but the final verdict on that won't be known for a few years." Vinous

"Bright, shiny ruby garnet. Expressive nose of red peach, ripe wild strawberries, blood oranges, plus fine floral components, complex and memorable. On the palate with light-footed complexity, tightly woven, fine-grained tannin, great juiciness and precision, clearly worked out fruit, comes back salty for a long time." Falstaff

"The most famous cru of Verduno, with limestone-clay soils and the presence of Marne di Sant'Agata. Vinified with whole grapes, on the nose cranberries, with hints of marjoram and eucalyptus. Crisp on the palate, with iodine-rich tannins and a fruity, balsamic note." Luca Gardini

Genuine expression of Sangiovese, terroir and the typical Riecine style, which is based above all on elegance. Deep, sparkling colour, complex, animating scent of small red berries and corresponding persistence on the palate. An impressive wine with the finesse of a great Sangiovese. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby with a fine garnet shimmer. Attractive nose with notes of pomegranate, cherry and spicy thyme. Round and polished at the base, shows very well worked out fruit, present and at the same time delicate, then opens with a lot of handy tannin. Falstaff

"A pure expression of Sangiovese, the 2016 La Gioia is a beauty. Off the bat, the wine shows a specific mineral note that reminds me of black stone or dusty granite. Beyond that, you get a thick and dense layer of black fruit and plum. The wine is never heavy or flat, instead it shows a lot of energy and freshness with a point of spiciness on the close. That energy is typical of Gaiole in Chianti. This is a medium-to-full bodied Sangiovese with all its various moving parts in harmony, ready for a Tuscan bean and tomato stew with fresh bread and healthy wedges of pecorino." Wine Advocate

"This is a powerful red with beautiful ripe tannins and freshness. Full and linear. Opens in the mouth. A pure sangiovese. Yeah!" James Suckling

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The name says it all. This wine is a reminiscence of a bygone era. It is a Gewürztraminer vinified in a traditional style with clearly perceptible residual sugar. The grapes come from two of the oldest Gewürztraminer sites near the Nußbaumerhof in Tramin from soils with calcareous gravel and porphyry rock.

To develop its character in the best possible way, Epokale matures for seven years in the darkness of the Ridnaun gallery on the Schneeberg at an altitude of over 2,000 metres. Here, four kilometres deep inside the mountain, it retains its freshness and gains elegance thanks to an environment with constant humidity and a cool temperature of 11 degrees all year round.

Intense golden yellow. Impressive bouquet of rose petals, some lavender and ripe, exotic fruits. Spicy notes of dried herbs, sage, ginger, saffron and cinnamon. A wine of pronounced aromatics, infinite depth with simultaneous fine spicy juiciness and salty minerality. The acidity harmonises unparalleled with the highly refined residual sweetness and makes this Spätlese-Riserva a unique experience. There are 2,500 bottles of this vintage. SUPERIORE.DE

"Shimmering fragrance, although it seems almost closed, it shows itself to be incredibly finesse-rich, multi-layered with mineral piquancy and elegant fruit body, reminiscent of apricot and lychee. Wonderfully finely woven in the mouth, elegant, vinous acidity, could perhaps have a bit more pressure and piquancy to cushion the fullness even better. Then there would have been even more here. Still belongs to the best vintages of the Epokale." Weinwisser

"Shiny, light golden yellow. Very clear and intense nose, of yellow roses, lychee, ripe mango, some dried orange peel. Balanced and round in the attack, glides along nicely, after dried apricots, roses and saffron, then unfortunately a bit broad in the final, still very young." Falstaff

"Frankly sweet gewurz is something one rarely reaches for, but this is so beautifully balanced and so elegant we suggest reaching for it would be a very smart move. Wonderfully delicate aromas of rose water, candied pineapple and lemon with just a whiff of smoke. This is very enticing. The long filigree finish has a texture that must be experienced to be believed! Bottled after aging for 6 years in the Ridanna Monteneve mine." James Suckling

"2015 was an early harvest in near-perfect weather conditions. Intense youthful burnished gold in colour, broad, fresh and fragrant aromas of candied citrus fruits are seasoned with notes of freshly crushed spice. In the mouth there's tremendous freshness and intensity of juicy almost-tropical and citrus fruit flavours; a stunning mixture! For now there's less sugar evident, despite the higher value, thanks to the good underpinning acidity. This clearly demands a great deal more time." Decanter

"A return to the roots of this typology. Old vineyards, seven years of ageing in Ridanna Monteneve mine, over 2000 meters above sea level. White melon and lychee to the nose, then saffron and fresh sage on the closure. Juicysapid to the palate, persistent with officinal return." Luca Gardini

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The first Caggiole came onto the market in 1988 and disappeared again in 1995 because the flagship Asinone simply met the tastes of consumers better at the time. Today - after an absence of over 20 years - the Nobile Le Caggiole is back on the market as the estate's new first wine. Estate owner Dott. Federico Carletti has dedicated this masterpiece to his wife Anna - setting a new benchmark for Poliziano and the entire denomination. We are delighted to be able to present this strictly limited top wine!

Salty, mineral and refined. Le Caggiole represents the terroir and the Sangiovese grape variety (Prugnolo Gentile) like no other wine from the estate. It is almost light-footed, svelte, delicate and at the same time very fine. It is the result of many years of work selecting the right Sangiovese clones in the single vineyard of the same name, Le Caggiole, which consists of 4 parcels. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red colour. Elegantly fragrant nose of wild strawberries, cherries, precious wood, cold smoke, some plum and red-cheeked peach, complex and fine. Clear, radiant fruit on the palate, embedded in tightly woven, salty tannins, precise, clear, comes in many layers, shows great ageing potential, is already accessible, unique Nobile!" Falstaff

"A supple red that reveals cherry and raspberry flavours with a firm tannic base. Robust and lively, showing iron, earth and tobacco details as this ambles along on the finish." Wine Spectator

"This wine is really refined and flavoursome, with a slightly mineral note of zesty oranges, nutmeg, sage and berries. Juicy and intense on the palate with fine tannins and a vertical yet ethereal finish. Excellent concentration and a firm grip at the end, even if the finish lingers. Drink now." James Suckling

"The Poliziano 2019 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Le Caggiole comes from a special 14-hectare vineyard site with sandy soils of ancient marine origin. The wine carries its significant oak spice beautifully, thanks to the extracted and generous black fruit at its core. This is a balanced, full-bodied expression that reflects modern Montepulciano winemaking." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Le Caggiole is intense, spicy and complex. In the glass, it exudes a bouquet of crushed ash stones, dried black cherries, cedar wood and rosemary. This wine is pure elegance, deep and structured, with a dense wave of ripe red and black fruits rushing over a core of savoury minerals and vibrant acidity. The finish is long and structured, with a lingering concentration that promises a steady evolution. This is the best version of Le Caggiole I have ever tasted. A wine for the cellar." Vinous

Ugolaia is a 1.7-hectare, south-west-facing plot with a view of the sea, where the temperature fluctuations between day and night are considerable. The estate's oldest vines grow here on red iron soil.

Lively, full red colour. Cool notes of watercress and mint complement fresh red cherries and crunchy chocolate-covered redcurrants. Rich, subtly sweet and very supple on the palate, with a juicy brightness that highlights the excellent cut and clarity of its red fruit and floral flavours. The characterful finish is refreshing with its lingering violet flavour. Very polished and velvety at the same time, a great wine every year. SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful berry nose, spiced up with notes of pepper and leather; the attack is compact, the tannins robust, the acidity noticeable, has fullness, power and juice. The beguiling final completes the perfect impression." Vinum

"Brilliant, deep ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Mineral and brooding on the nose and still quite closed. Lots of soft yet spicy fruit. Still somewhat powerful at the moment, but very promising and with firm but very fine tannins. Long, complex and juicy finish. Stunning, but still far from mature." Jancis Robinson

"Rich ruby colour with a slightly brightening garnet rim. Inviting, rich nose with lots of fleshy fruit, cloves, blackberries and plums. Shows beautifully present fruit on the palate, round and balanced, grippy, dense tannins, lingers for a long time, full-bodied." Falstaff

"The Brunello di Montalcino Ugolaia 2017 comes from a hot and very dry vintage and shows a dark garnet red colour with particular concentration and texture. The bouquet smells of dark fruits, baked plums and roasted spices. The Ugolaia is complex and rich, but despite the intensity of the vintage, the mouthfeel is of medium length and the wine finishes with a bright freshness." Wine Advocate

"The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Ugolaia smells of dried roses and cherries as well as cinnamon and cloves in the glass. It feels almost velvety, with a dense wave of tart wild berries accompanied by a hint of sour citrus and balsamic spice. Nuances of plum and liquorice linger as the 2017 finishes structured, but not austere, with hints of mocha and redcurrant. The Ugolaia is another example of Lisini's success in this difficult vintage. Nevertheless, it will need a few more years to fully develop." Vinous

"Full-bodied with ripe and dried cherries, spiced plums, chocolate and blueberries, supported by polished tannins. Also well-integrated spices and dried flowers. Ripe and expansive, with a soft and supple texture that makes it very approachable and satisfying." James Suckling

"Lisini's single-vineyard selection shows its usual exotic side in 2017. It opens with an intoxicating blend of incense, juniper, pressed lilac and lavender. There's also that polished wood nuance that I associate with the wine's six months of ageing in chestnut barrels. On the palate, it is even denser than the estate's Brunello annata, showing flavours of myrtle and redcurrant underpinned by an appetising salty core. The powerful tannins require another year in the bottle, but are admirably voluptuous. Undoubtedly one of the successes of the vintage." Decanter

"The nose takes you to a forest cabin, full of savory, umami aromas of damp earth, leather and mushrooms, with sharper notes of balsamic and Luxardo cherries coming through. On the palate, the cherry element freshens and brightens, and is lifted by undertones of orange and anise, along with springy tannins and buoyant acid." Wine Enthusiast

"Lush and fruity, this red wine offers flavours of cherries, raspberries, eucalyptus, wild rosemary and minerals, supported by a lively acidity and dense, refined tannins. It offers a balanced overall picture with a long, tasty aftertaste characterised by fruity and mineral elements." Wine Spectator

Very individualistic and quite extraordinary cuvée from Colorino, Canaiolo and Sangiovese. The bouquet is full of dark berries and the scent of elderflowers. Dense and powerful on the palate, yet slender, very clear, pithy, polished tannins and a long, full finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful, with leather, plum tart, earth and tar flavors, backed by a vibrant structure. This shows heft, but a racy side lends definition to the refined finish." Wine Spectator

"I love the balance and beauty to this red with dried-strawberry, cherry and flower character. Full-bodied but reserved and polished. Ultra-fine tannins. Lively, creamy acidity. I like the volcanic salt undertone to the fruit." James Suckling

In 1991, Turriga was one of the first bottled wines ever exported from the island. Turriga has a 100% Sardinian soul - the famous blend of the four autochthonous grape varieties Cannonau, Carignano, Bovale Sardo and Malvasia Nera was once created by the famous OenologistGiacomo Tachis and is continued today by his "heir" Mariano Murru, technical director and Oenologist Argiolas. The DNA of this exceptional wine sounds as simple as it is perfect: the Cannonau base gives structure, the Carignano the roundness and fullness, the Bovale the richness of the fruit and the Malvasia provides the well-balanced portion of tannins.

Mariano goes into raptures and describes his top wine as follows: "It has a deep ruby colour and an enveloping taste of almost spherical softness, with tannins of great finesse that support and accompany the drink. The lively fruit is supported by a balanced acidity and spice that refreshes the palate and prolongs an indescribable finish of rare elegance."

Bravo, Mariano! We have loved the elegant bouquet of plums, the opulent dark fruit, the finely tuned vanilla note and the subtle hint of tobacco for decades. Superbly structured and long-lasting on the finish. A masterpiece every year! SUPERIORE.DE

"A beautifully curated and polished young red with black berry, violet, and bark. Full and velvety with creamy textured tannins and a flavorful finish. Juicy." James Suckling

"An incredible wine, one of the highest creations of Sardinian oenology. Cannonau, Carignano, Bovale and Malvasia Nera in a blend, blueberries on the nose, a hint of bay leaves, nutmeg on the finish. Spicy on the palate too, with salty tannins, nice juiciness and lingering drinkability." Luca Gardini

The name says it all. This wine is a reminiscence of a bygone era. It is a Gewürztraminer vinified in a traditional style with clearly perceptible residual sugar. The grapes come from two of the oldest Gewürztraminer sites near the Nußbaumerhof in Tramin from soils with calcareous gravel and porphyry rock.

To develop its character in the best possible way, Epokale matures for seven years in the darkness of the Ridnaun gallery on the Schneeberg at an altitude of over 2,000 metres. Here, four kilometres deep inside the mountain, it retains its freshness and gains elegance thanks to an environment with constant humidity and a cool temperature of 11 degrees all year round.

Intense golden yellow. Impressive bouquet of rose petals, some lavender and ripe, exotic fruits. Spicy notes of dried herbs, sage, ginger, saffron and cinnamon. A wine of pronounced aromatics, infinite depth with simultaneous fine spicy juiciness and salty minerality. The acidity harmonises unparalleled with the highly refined residual sweetness and makes this Spätlese-Riserva a unique experience. There are 2,500 bottles of this vintage. SUPERIORE.DE

"Shimmering fragrance, although it seems almost closed, it shows itself here incredibly finesse-rich, multi-layered with mineral piquancy and elegant fruit body, reminiscent of apricot and lychee. In the mouth, wonderfully finely woven, elegant, vinous acidity, could perhaps have a bit more pressure and piquancy to cushion the fullness even better. Then there would have been even more here. Still belongs to the best vintages of the Epokale." Weinwisser

"Shiny, light golden yellow. Very clear and intense nose, of yellow roses, lychee, ripe mango, some dried orange peel. Balanced and round in the attack, glides along nicely, after dried apricots, roses and saffron, then unfortunately a bit broad in the final, still very young." Falstaff

"Frankly sweet gewurz is something one rarely reaches for, but this is so beautifully balanced and so elegant we suggest reaching for it would be a very smart move. Wonderfully delicate aromas of rose water, candied pineapple and lemon with just a whiff of smoke. This is very enticing. The long filigree finish has a texture that must be experienced to be believed! Bottled after aging for 6 years in the Ridanna Monteneve mine." James Suckling

"2015 was an early harvest in near-perfect weather conditions. Intense youthful burnished gold in colour, broad, fresh and fragrant aromas of candied citrus fruits are seasoned with notes of freshly crushed spice. In the mouth there's tremendous freshness and intensity of juicy almost-tropical and citrus fruit flavours; a stunning mixture! For now there's less sugar evident, despite the higher value, thanks to the good underpinning acidity. This clearly demands a great deal more time." Decanter

"A return to the roots of this typology. Old vineyards, seven years of ageing in Ridanna Monteneve mine, over 2000 meters above sea level. White melon and lychee to the nose, then saffron and fresh sage on the closure. Juicysapid to the palate, persistent with officinal return." Luca Gardini

The name says it all. This wine is a reminiscence of a bygone era. It is a Gewürztraminer vinified in the traditional style with clearly perceptible residual sugar. The grapes come from two of the oldest Gewürztraminer vineyards near the Nußbaumerhof in Tramin from soils with calcareous gravel and porphyry rock.

In order to develop its character in the best possible way, Epokale matures for seven years in the darkness of the Ridnaun tunnel on the Schneeberg at an altitude of over 2,000 metres. Here, four kilometres deep inside the mountain, it retains its freshness and gains elegance thanks to an environment in which constant humidity and a cool temperature of 11 degrees prevail all year round.

Intense golden yellow colour. Impressive bouquet of rose petals, some lavender and ripe, exotic fruit. Spicy notes of dried herbs, sage, ginger, saffron and cinnamon. A wine with pronounced flavours, infinite depth and at the same time fine spicy juiciness and salty minerality. The acidity harmonises perfectly with the extremely fine residual sweetness, making this late harvest Riserva a unique experience. There are 2,500 bottles of this vintage. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, rich golden yellow with a green glow. Complex and intense nose of ripe peach and apricot, some dried orange peel and cloves. Round and full on the palate, lots of present fruit, spreads out with firm pressure, a slight bitter note on the final." Falstaff

"Deep, firm and complex, almost cool fragrance with noble stone fruit aromas, some lychee and orange zest, floral aromas, a hint of caramel, delicate herbs and yellow spice. Dense, ripe, very juicy and complex spicy, sweet fruit with nutty, smoky, herbal-vegetable and floral notes, orange and mandarin zest on the palate, again some caramel, deep, multi-layered and persistent, clear minerality in the background, perfectly integrated sweetness, quite noble character, very good to long, concentrated, juicy and spicy finish with very fine grip and persistence." Wein-Plus

"Cantina Tramin has devoted enormous effort to Gewürztraminer over the years, and this wine is a culmination of research and experimentation. The Gewürztraminer Spätlese Epokale 2016 (of which there are only 2,400 bottles) matures first in stainless steel and then for six long years in the bottle at the back of an old mine. It opens with a bright, golden yellow colour and offers exceptional aromas of drunken pear, babà napoletano, icing sugar, tarte aux pommes and an exotic hint of baklava." Wine Advocate

"Epokale is the top bottling of Gewürztraminer from Tramin, reminiscent of the traditional style of the region, with plenty of residual sugar. Nevertheless, it is incredibly balanced and fresh. Produced for the first time in 2009, Epokale is made from grapes grown on dolomitic limestone soils with a high clay content. This helps to cool the vines and ensures maximum acidity, which balances out the high sugar content of the grapes. The wine is vinified in stainless steel before being taken to an old silver mine at 2,000 metres above sea level, 4 km inside the mountain, where there is a constant temperature of 11°C with high humidity. Here the wine rests for seven years. This 2016, the most recent release, is rich, round, viscous and spicy, with flavours of stone fruit, lime and lychee as well as grilled pineapple, rosewater, apricot, white peach and floral aromas. A savoury finish helps to cleanse the palate while maintaining a certain verticality despite its full body. Drink it now, or savour it over the next 10 years (or longer)." Decanter

"Impressive concentration and richness with a tropical and spicy character with notes of dried mango and persimmon, with hints of flowers and dried herbs. Full and broad on the palate with moderate sweetness and polished texture. Very delicate and smooth with undertones of dried fruit and honey. Delicious and long." James Suckling

"A return to the roots of the variety. Old vines, then aged for seven years in the Ridanna Monteneve mine at an altitude of over 2,000 metres. White melon and lychee on the nose, then saffron and fresh sage on the finish. Juicy and flavoursome on the palate, lingering." Luca Gardini

When a Brunello that is exceptional almost every year comes from an exceptional vintage, then this is what you can expect: classic Sangiovese interpretation with a wonderful balance of elegance and power. Very firm, dark fruit, fine-grained tannin and a well-dosed acid wire. As it progresses, it opens up with a wealth of aromas of wild berries, violets and freshly ploughed earth. A magical wine with a long life and great potential that is already apparent. SUPERIORE.DE

"Shiny, intense garnet red. Opens with notes of cranberries, juicy red cherries, some sealing wax in the background. Lots of fine-meshed tannin on the palate, spreads out well, clear and straightforward, shows many layers, long final, a long runner." Falstaff

"A little shy and understated on the nose now, with savory red plums, ash, pretty red berries, new leather and minerals. Very nimble, juicy and polished on the palate with medium body and a mouthful of seamless and evenly enveloped tannins. A linear and refined expression with an austere edge. Lay it down until 2026, to allow it to unfurl more complexity." James Suckling

"Comparing 2015 with 2016, technical director Federico Radi says that the latter is more balanced and aromatic owing to overall cooler temperatures in July and August. It is certainly more in line with Biondi Santi’s angular, austere style and unmistakable in its class and potential. With the utmost restraint, flinty mineral notes make way for scents of dried leaves, forest wildflowers and fresh mint. Perfectly poised on the palate, this is midweight yet plumbs great depths, expressing pomegranate, fennel and orange peel. While its tannins have a certain rigidity and are decidedly linear in direction, they are not massive. It is a rather sneaky wine that needs a few more years in the cellar. Brilliantly succulent finish." Decanter

"This features a well of blackberry and black cherry flavors, along with iron, licorice and fresh herb aromas and flavors. The dense tannins are easily matched by the concentrated flavors, and this shows fine potential, despite the compact finish now." Wine Spectator

"From a benchmark vintage, the Biondi-Santi 2016 Brunello di Montalcino reveals a gorgeous appearance with medium concentration highlighted by shiny hues of garnet and dark ruby. The first thing you notice is the compact dark fruit and rather robust textural fiber and power presented here. You almost bite into this wine, and you taste some fine grain linked to the young tannins. That, with the fresh acidity that is the hallmark signature of this estate, guarantees long cellar aging, and I would put my money on this vintage for long-long-term longevity. The fruit is compact and supple with dried cherry, blue flower, iron ore and candied orange peel. There is tobacco, balsam herb and gardening soil in a supporting role, and the wine is beautifully fleshed out but also rich in this balanced growing season. It surely needs more time to come together with pinpoint precision, but the wine's elegance is a certainty." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of rose petal, dark spice, woodland berries and camphor form the nose on this fragrant, elegant wine. Loaded with finesse, the linear, savory palate features red cherry, orange zest, star anise and black tea alongside tightly wound, fine-grained tannins. Bright acidity keeps it impeccably balanced. It's still youthfully austere, with fantastic aging potential." Wine Enthusiast

Tasca got involved in Etna early on and the latest result of these years of experience are four new single vineyard wines from the Tascante estate: Contrada Rampante, Pianodario, Sciaranuova and Sciaranuova Vigna Vecchia (V.V.). The wines are delicate and profound, and despite their power, acidity and taut tannin, very elegant, finesse-rich and light-footed on the palate. Each of the four plots brings a slightly different style and personality to the wine - due to the altitude, soil composition and morphology of the historic lava flows. A high annual rainfall ensures that the soil has all the water it needs, and the temperature fluctuations between day and night support the aromatic diversity of the grapes and ultimately the ripening potential.

The Sciaranuova parcel is situated at an average altitude of 730 metres above sea level between the villages of Montelaguardia and Passopisciaro. It covers an area of about 4.9 hectares of vineyards. The soils are of volcanic origin and up to 40,000 years old. Within the Sciaranuova parcel is a small cru site whose vines were planted in 1961. The bottles, produced in very small quantities, are labelled "Vigna Vecchia". Compared to its "younger brother", this rare wine shows increased complexity, depth and elegance. SUPERIORE.DE

"Just mid ruby. Great concentration of red fruit on the nose. Real depth. Red cherry with dark-earth notes and hints of white pepper. Very pure and focused red-fruit palate but not open by far. Gentle tannic structure framing the fruit. Nervy yet full cherry finish with coating tannins." Jancis Robinson

"A graceful red, with finely meshed flavors of raspberry puree and black cherry gliding across the palate. Delicate accents of ground white pepper, anise, sweet smoke and dried sage add depth, lingering prettily alongside the light, taut tannins on the creamy finish." Wine Spectator

"Made with fruit from old vines, the Tenuta Tascante 2017 Etna Rosso Contrada Sciaranuova V.V. is powerful and delicate at the same time, and it strikes a careful balance between these two opposing forces. This is one of the biggest compliments you can give to a wine from Etna, one of the most dramatic and violent winemaking panoramas on Earth. This lovely Nerello Mascalese shows aromas of cherry and wild rose with toasted nut, scorched earth and lavender essence. The concentration and staying power from those old vines add considerably to the depth, tannic power and complexity of this age-worthy bottle." Wine Advocate

"Bright, radiant ruby red with a gently lightening rim. Great, fragrant nose, of geranium blossoms, rose hips, oranges, some pomegranate, very red-fruity-fresh, with fine spices in the aftertaste. On the palate polished and with clear fruit, spreads gently and steadily growing over the tongue, pithy and clear, in the finish extremely finesse-rich and long." Falstaff

"Intense, ripe and textured, it displays a good concentration of fleshy red fruits with notes of liquorice, balsam, cocoa, leather and soft spices. Broad-shouldered and ageable, it finishes elegantly with a long, mineral tang." Decanter

"Wow. Such a beautiful, old-vine red with strawberry and cherry aromas, as well hints of hazelnuts and roses. It’s full, very creamy and polished. Extremely long and flavorful. Gorgeous wine all around." James Suckling

If there's one thing Giacomo Neri has mastered, it's harvesting at optimal ripeness: he knows his property and his vines better than most, and it shows all the more in the top 2016 vintage. The bouquet goes far beyond the standard cherry and blackberry and includes plum cake, spice bread and plum wrapped in bacon. Nothing about this wine is obvious or monochromatic. Everything is nuanced and ethereal. Tenuta Nuova 2016 also features the linear mineral and saline notes that are characteristic of this single vineyard. The perfectly formed tannins achieve a suppleness that is second to none. Collectors will want to put this wine aside for ten years or more. SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful, bright ruby. Impressive nose with rich notes of wild raspberry, ripe plum fresh from the tree, plus some liquorice, exciting. Salty and juicy on the palate, showing lots of red berry fruit, then opens up with fine-meshed tannin, polished and exceedingly long." Falstaff

"A bright, pure version, boasting raspberry, black cherry and blackberry flavors married to a fluid profile. The structure is present, yet both the lively acidity and fine-grained tannins are in harmony. The focus is really on the fruit here, with accents of graphite, earth, tobacco and underbrush." Wine Spectator

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova drawing you in with a display of exotic brown spice, mint and cedar dust. Further coaxing unlocks depths of cherry, plum, hints of dark chocolate and roses. It coasts along a medium-bodied frame with velvety richness, complemented by polished red and black fruits while contrasted by brisk acids and hints of sour citrus. This coats the teeth in concentration, as if you can feel the pulp, seeds and skins of its fruit, while a layer of fine tannin slowly grounds you back to earth. The Tenuta Nuova already has so much to give, yet it will be many years before it reaches its apex. Wow." Vinous

"Tenuta Nuova is Casanova di Neri's southern expression of Brunello. Vines were planted in 1989 and Gianlorenzo Neri says they are now hitting their stride, giving wines with more persistence and depth than earlier vintages. The 2016 clearly demonstrates both of these attributes. It is not as immediate as the white label but unfolds decorously with earth, tar, leather, black currants and cinnamon. The tannins are refined, clinging to the palate with a clayey texture. Pristine and polished with masses of personality, the briny undertow cleanses the mouth brilliantly. Balsam and orange carry the finish." Decanter

"This is one of my sweetheart wines from Montalcino. The Casanova di Neri 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova offers a long list of aromas on an ever-shifting and fluid bouquet. You get bright cherry, rose potpourri, black truffle, caramel, butterscotch, sandalwood, road pavement and chalky mineral. In fact, each time I come back to this wine, that mineral element seemed to grow in intensity and scope. The wine offers a grounded fruit side that is contrasted nicely against a grounded oak component. The mouthfeel is creamy and long, and the wine shows terrific tannic integration. When you come back hours later, you might find black olive, bresaola and licorice." Wine Advocate

"Aromas of blackberries, cherries, violets and bark with mahogany. It's full-bodied and chewy with intense tannins that are layered and focused. The fruit is pure and purposeful, yet not over done. Wonderful strength and purity to this. Class is the word." James Suckling

Schiena d'Asino is a small vineyard from which this fabulous Brunello is produced exclusively in excellent years. Schiena captivates with its richness and overall intensity and is endowed with a lot of energy and varietal purity. Sage, rosemary and a host of Mediterranean herbs open up first, followed by graphite, smoke, incense, dark spices and black stone fruits. Wild, intensely mineral notes underpin the fruit and capture the essence of the great site. For an exceptional wine, this Brunello remains remarkably light on its feet, yet it is an introspective, brooding wine that will need at least a few years to show all it has to offer. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, rich ruby garnet. Finely marked nose with notes of rose petals, some raspberry, fine spice in the background. Builds up richly on the palate, dark berry fruit, opens with grippy, dense tannin, still shows itself very young." Falstaff

"Developing mid ruby. Brooding and intense on the nose with hints of graphite and filled out by oak. Full mouth of juicy, spicy cherry fruit framed by bags of delicious, chewy tannins. Very long and deep and gorgeously balanced. Tactile fireworks. Ready now but will hold." Jancis Robinson

"A historic vineyard for the denomination and for the winery, which returns in a version of great concentration, aged in Alliers oak. Nose of wild plum, with touches of Mediterranean scrub and chinotto. Mouth with savory-salty tannins, finish with fruity return." Luca Gardini

"This is structured and muscular, yet in a toned and polished way. It’s full-bodied with a linear and racy nature, showing focused black-cherry, orange-peel and berry character. Flavorful and extremely long. Better after 2024." James Suckling

"Forest floor, violet and camphor aromas come to the forefront along with whiffs of toasted nut on this full-bodied red. It's elegant and structured, featuring dried cherry, tobacco and licorice framed in tightly knit, fine-grained tannins, while fresh acidity keeps it balanced. Give it time to fully develop." Wine Enthusiast

"A lithe, focused red, evoking strawberry, cherry, currant, spice and tobacco flavors. Shows intensity and grip, with accents of leather and licorice chiming in on the finish. Well-structured and lingers on the chalky, mineral aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"Planted in 1978, the 1.2ha Schiena d’Asino plot boasts a southeast to southwest exposition reaching almost 400 metres above sea level on stony, clay soil. Long ageing in 16-hectolitre French oak casks is followed by a year in bottle before release. The 2016 surfaces from its shell slowly and beguilingly, bestowing dried lavender, sage blossom and mint with a heady suggestion of truffles. The rich, dark red-fruited palate is framed by sandy, dusty tannins. Some heat rises on the mid-palate but is soaked up by plush layers, finishing on a salty liquorice note." Decanter

"The late-release 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Schiena d'Asino captivates with a display of sweet smoke and crushed stone giving way to dusty black raspberry and savory herbs. It’s silky-smooth and cool-toned, peppering the senses with mineral-tinged woodland berries and hints of spice. Grippy tannins build toward the close, saturating the palate beneath red inner florals. This tapers off with heroic structure but also the primary fruits to balance. The 2016 Vigna Schiena d’Aine is a dark stallion of a Brunello that's packed full of potential." Vinous

"The Mastrojanni 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Schiena d'Asino (with only 6,000 bottles made) is a joy. This classic 2016 vintage was extremely kind to Sangiovese, but not all producers were able to harness this level of varietal purity, elegance and sheer energy. This soulful wine is indeed best characterized by its inner electricity. The "donkey's back," or Schiena d'Asino, is a special vineyard site where grapes enjoy long sun hours and cool nighttime temperatures." Wine Advocate

Only nine years after the harvest is this great wine released for sale: The slow drying of the fully ripe harvested grapes gives this cru its tremendous power and density as well as the extraordinary character with massive ripeness, fruit fullness, beautiful concentration and great elegance. On the palate, Bertani's Amarone demonstrates freshness, noble lightness and great dynamism. An exciting wine and for decades probably the most classic Amarone - the archetype, so to speak - of the entire appellation. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, very intense ruby. Opens with light mineral notes, then after pickled cherries and rich red berry fruit, underlaid with fine blood orange in the background. Very precise in attack and course, elegant cherry fruit, grippy, dense tannin, opens in many layers, fine melting, now already easy to drink, very juicy, very great development potential." Falstaff

"Medium garnet red. There is so much going on in the nose! Fruits and dried spices. Next time I'm in an Indian restaurant with a good wine list, I want to try an Amarone. Really very complex and exciting. So fresh and clean! Dry finish. So very different from the commercial Amarone norm. Really quite exciting." Jancis Robinson

"The 2012 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico takes its time opening in the glass, slowly evolving with a rich blend of crushed black cherries complemented by dusty violet florals and exotic spice. This coasts across the palate, silky-smooth yet with cooling minerality and brisk acids that add an energetic feel as a saturation of red fruits and fine tannins collect toward the close. The 2012 finishes lightly structured with a resonance of balsamic spice and bitter hints of cocoa that linger on and on - a fantastic and genuinely harmonious rendition of Bertani's Amarone Classico." Vinous

"Wow, what a complex bouquet, with a base of dried cherries spiced up with hints of mild coffee and walnuts. There are also dried flowers, wild herbs and spices such as tarragon and cloves. Subtle hints of dried banana and apricot. The palate is full-bodied, very smooth, intense and balanced, with firm, spicy tannins that drive everything forward. Long, long finish. It's nice to taste it now, but this wine, already almost ten years old, will be in your cellar for a long time." James Suckling

Giacomo Neri's new top Brunello was born with the purchase of a very special vineyard. True to the winery's philosophy of making wines only from the best terroirs around Montalcino, a small 7-hectare parcel with over 45 years of vines was purchased a few years ago. This was preceded by a friendship of over 40 years with the previous owners, with whom Giacomo's father Giovanni Neri planted the vines and nurtured them over the past decades.

And the 2018 vintage is now the premiere for a wine that radiates all the outstanding qualities of the source material and the winemaker's craft. Man and nature unite here in perfect precision and harmony. Its balance is exquisite. Powerful cherry and blackberry notes are followed by crushed minerals, liquorice, smoke and lightly scented cedar. The wine spreads evenly and powerfully across the palate, and its flavour intensity can be counted on for many long minutes. Giovanni Neri Brunello is wonderfully concentrated and rich, but never too heavy or dense. 2018 is the birth of a new Italian icon that will take us on an exciting journey in the years to come - patience and further bottle ageing will be princely rewarded here, we are sure! SUPERIORE.DE

"Casanova di Neri's latest Brunello comes from a 7 ha parcel acquired in 2017. The vineyard is located in the somewhat untamed area of Sesta, in the south-east of Montalcino, and has vines that are over 50 years old. The wine is extremely multi-faceted, exuding aromas of herbs and blood oranges. Velvety layers of fleshy persimmons and ample supple tannins are countered by a citrusy acidity. There's a crisp pomegranate as well as chocolaty depths of exotic carob. Lots of drive and vibration here." Decanter

"I have waited a long time for the first release of Giovanni Neri Brunello di Montalcino, and the 2018 does not disappoint. Here I find a beguiling blend of lavender, white pepper and crushed stone giving way to dried black cherries and foreign spices. The palate is washed by a smooth wave of ripe red berries, carried by lively acidity, while nuances of sour citrus and clove resonate. The tannins are crisp, almost chiselled, but with a primary concentration that lingers under a hint of purple flowers, tapering off with tremendous length and structure for long and balanced ageing. The Giovanni Neri comes from 50-year-old vines from a vineyard acquired in the south-east of Montalcino. This is a fabulous first bottling." Vinous

"This red is finely woven, with cherry and blackcurrant fruits shadowed by floral, mineral and black pepper aromas and flavours. Smooth and fluid, with excellent balance and lively acidity driving the fruity aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"Sparkling ruby-garnet with brightening rim. Very clear, ripe fruit, of blackberries, dark plums and black cherries, in the background slightly of molasses. Presents itself on the palate with lots of sweet fruit, very clear, opens with fine, slightly grippy tannin, polished, juicy and long." Falstaff

"Here is an exciting and important new addition to the Casanova di Neri portfolio. The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Giovanni Neri is shapely and enriched in an extremely pleasing way. The Neri family has perfected their approach to concentration and fruit weight over the many years they have been making excellent wines. This wine gives the impression of being full-bodied, but ultimately shows a very elegant side. Ripe cherry and blackberry are offset by oak spice, toast and white stones. The tannins are supple and sweet. 5,400 bottles of this first release were made." Wine Advocate

"Beautiful ripe fruit on the nose, with cranberries, plums, sour cherries, white truffle, red tea and white pepper. The tannins are very fine, creamy and expansive. Enveloping and generous, yet fresh. Wonderful length and depth. From a 7 hectare plot with 50 year old vines. Try this wine from 2025." James Suckling

"An impeccable interpretation, the result of excellent work both in the vineyard and in the cellar. Intense aromas of sour cherries and bay leaves on the nose, with salty and iodine notes on the finish. On the palate, it opens juicy and taut, then gains breadth and depth. Spicy tannins and a hint of hiel herbs characterise the long finish." Luca Gardini

Cepparello is one of the great single-varietal Sangiovese classics from central Tuscany. Radiant ruby red. Clean, flawless aroma of red fruits, enlivened by fine pepper accents and delicate mineral nuances. Elegance radiates from the relaxed onset, enveloping palate that delivers a perfectly measured acid framework to a well-integrated tannin to finish long and finesse-rich. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, strong ruby with a light garnet shimmer. The nose is very compact, with dark cherries, lots of blackberries and fine spicy notes. Radiant on the palate, shows lots of ripe red berry fruit, grippy, dense tannin coated with beautiful melting, firm and compact, long final." Falstaff

"Lots of liquorice and fennel seeds with black cherry and a hint of tomato paste. Medium body, round texture and savoury flavours. Nice and fresh on the finish, with subtle flavours." James Suckling

"Fragrant potpourri and medicinal aromas recall the 2006, while the structured palate shows pure, ripe cherry with some damp earth and even an umami hint of mushroom, infused with bright acidity. Vibrant and complex, it's still in its youthful phase but will be great once it's had time to develop." Decanter

"The 2019 Cepparello is very impressive, even though it has just been bottled. Generous and creamy, with its classic medium-bodied structure, the 2019 has so much to offer. Silky tannins wrap around a core of red and purple berry fruit. New leather, spice and a touch of oak meld together effortlessly in the glass. I can't wait to taste it in another 6-12 months or so. The 2019 is shaping up to be an absolute top wine." Vinous

"One of the iconic wines of Tuscany, Isole e Olena 2019 Cepparello is a pure Sangiovese made by the loving hands of a winemaking legend, the great Paolo De Marchi. Indeed, this wine opens a discussion about the future of this famous IGT Toscana, a wine that followed an austere vision and style under De Marchi. It is elegant and rich with delicate aromas of black and purple fruits. It is fermented in oak barrels and aged for 20 months in French barriques, one third of which is in new oak." Wine Advocate

Every year, Renieri conjures up a lush and fruit-driven Brunello in the glass, bursting with freshness, brightness and balsamic-aromatic intensity. Its grapes come from a small, nine-hectare parcel with chalky clay soils. It offers powerful cherry and blackberry aromas with delicate spice, smoke and blue flowers. The wonderfully balanced acidity pushes this showpiece wine into a seemingly endless final. Completely successful! SUPERIORE.DE

"The Renieri 2017 Brunello di Montalcino embraces freshness, vibrant fruit and punchy sour cherry aromas. In fact, I am surprised by the ethereal and light quality of this wine, given the hot vintage. This expression is redolent of earth, forest floor and garden roses. Some well-managed flavors of spice and toasted nut slip in gently at the end." Wine Advocate

"A fresh and balanced Brunello for the hot and dry 2017 vintage. It’s medium- to full-bodied with tight and polished tannins that are well-integrated and focused on the palate. Plenty of dark berry, black cherry and dry earth with some porcini mushroom. Fantastic for the vintage. Try after 2023." James Suckling

Il Nocio, a Nobile di Montepulciano from a single vineyard, impressively demonstrates the true essence of the Sangiovese grape and has also been one of the region's quality leaders for years. Deep red, intense aromas of sour cherry, redcurrant, rose petals, violets and sweet spices. Dense, juicy and elegant on the palate, with fresh, pure fruit and smoothly polished tannins. Lively mineral and floral nuances in the very long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, baroque ruby red colour. Radiant nose of ripe forest fruit, cranberries, cherries, with some leather in the aftertaste and light spice. Opens up on the palate with elegant use of wood and polished red cranberry fruit, with beautiful juiciness, firm pressure on the finish, minimally broad on the finish, already accessible." Falstaff

"Packs ample flesh, wrapped around flavors of black cherry, blackberry, plum, cedar, earth and tobacco. Features flashes of juniper and wild rosemary that dapple its impressive length, while dusty tannins prevail on the lengthy finish." Wine Spectator

"Dark and earthy in the glass, the 2019 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Il Nocio smolders up with a blend of crushed ashen stones and savory herbs, underbrush and camphor. This is a round effort, with a mineral tinge up front and depths of red and black fruits that slowly saturate the palate toward the close. A balsamic twang punctuates the finish, combined with a web of fine-grained tannins as the 2019 tapers off long and structured, simply begging for the cellar. This is a classic in the making." Vinous

"Tarry berries, black mineral, dried orange rind and mussels on the nose. I like the chalky tannin structure and the pithiness here that makes you think of the build of a fine Serralunga d'Alba Barolo. Tight, bold and very austere, for sure, but so attractive and gastronomic at the same time. The tannins make you feel hungry. Give it time to unwind." James Suckling

"Three hectares just over 45 years old, flagship wine for Nobile di Montepulciano in the world. Nose of marasca cherries under spirits, mulberry, great balsamic cue and hints of undergrowth. The sip is vigorous, iodine-rich, juicy and at the same time complex, crisp, with great persistence." Luca Gardini

Energy and elegance are the hallmarks of the 2013 Brunello vintage. The top wines are stunning, with a vibrancy that is missing in many of the muscular, approachable and higher alcohol Brunellos from recent vintages. However, the 2013s will also require some patience to reach their maximum potential. In contrast to the extremely warm, dry years that have become the norm in Montalcino since the mid-1990s (the exceptions being 1998, 2002 and 2005), the 2013 vintage was a reminiscence of the past. It was a cool year with lots of rain in spring and the first half of summer.

So in 2013 in particular, it was especially important to find the right harvest. The 2013 Riserva presents itself multilayered, silky and translucent, but also with remarkable depth, power and the classic Biondi Santi austerity that will only reward the patient connoisseur. On the nose, which opens slowly with aeration, there are delicate hints of vibrant red cherry, underbrush and flint. Rich, dense and supple, with outstandingly precise red berry and mineral flavours accompanied by delicate notes of liquorice, chestnut and underbrush. The finish is very long and pure, with a seamless quality of classic Sangiovese flavours. Very promising and perfectly poised for the future! SUPERIORE.DE

"Shiny, intense ruby with a pronounced garnet tongue. Opens with slightly earthy notes, black truffle, also some anchovy, then lots of ripe plum, balsamic notes in the background. Very good volume in the attack, fills the palate immediately and full, lots of juicy cherry fruit, shows fine-meshed tannin in many layers, very good tension, spicy notes of coriander seeds in the final, salty." Falstaff

"Day one: Just mid ruby with orange tinges. Cool yet intense and complex on the nose. Contained yet deep. Minerally notes of cherry and blood orange. Compact transparent and with embryonic austerity. Reluctant to show it all, but the balance is sheer perfection. Finely powdered tannins and an elegant, medium palate weight. Furls up quickly on the finish into a dormant state. Needs at least half a decade more in bottle.
Day two: Just mid ruby with orange tinges. More brooding and introvert on the nose than yesterday, but no signs at all of oxidation. Great purity of fruit. Minerally peppery hints. Quite closed but exceedingly fine on the palate with finely chiselled tannins and succulent cherry and raspberry fruit. It's all a tad better integrated showing this wine needs a lot of bottle age. Transparent and long, but closes up on the finish.
Day three: Just mid ruby with broad orange rim. The nose is even more closed than the day before, but absolutely no signs of oxidation. Cool sour-cherry nose with a peppery tingle. Great depth, but brooding rather than expressive. Notes of iron. Racy, but stubborn palate firmly closed on the fruit and fine long powdery tannins. After having been open for over 72 hours it is still too young to approach." Jancis Robinson

"The 2013 vintage is the estate's latest Riserva to be released, the winery’s 40th Riserva since 1888 and the first vintage in over 40 years without the leadership of Franco Biondi-Santi. Due to rainstorms in September, the family delayed picking until the end of the month, making 2013 a relatively late harvest for Biondi-Santi. Classic sour red cherry notes are accented by orange, sandalwood and fennel. The palate charms with its savoury expression, finely textured sandy tannins and underlying minerality. Understated and refined, it flows gracefully but will nevertheless benefit from a couple of years in the cellar." Decanter

"Tense and elegant, this red evokes strawberry, cherry, floral, iron and rosemary aromas and flavors. Harmonious in its linear profile and smooth, yet with adequate tannins for a long life ahead. The fresh finish balances fruit and balsamic elements." Wine Spectator

"A fresh, linear 2013 with cherry, mushroom and cedar character. Lots of blue fruit as well. Medium-to full-bodied with firm, polished tannins and a creamy finish. Still very tight, this needs time to open if you want to drink it now, Try decanting two or three hours in advance." James Suckling

"The 2013 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva blossoms in the glass in a display of understated power mixed with purity. This unfolds more like a whisper than a shout, wafting up with a delicate bouquet of fresh violets, lavender and a dusting of shaved cedar and clove. With time, it deepens further, pulling you down to earth with aromas of wild strawberry and underbrush. The textures are like pure silk gently draped across the palate, but what they leave behind is a more engaging and classic mix of salty mineral tones and tart red berries, all lifted by juicy acidity. This then takes another turn, now toward the savory spectrum, as wild herbal and inner earth tones mix with a fine layer of sweet tannin to create a youthfully austere yet not overtly structured expression, leaving a nuance of tobacco to linger long. The 2013 presents an intriguing interpretation of the Biondi Santi Riserva, one that shrugs off the grippy, gruff, almost rustic tannins of the past in exchange for a more youthfully harmonious expression. Will it age? Maybe not for 50 years, but considering that this beauty was open and tasted over the course of three days, I'm convinced that it will be thrilling for the next few decades to come." Vinous

"Fragrant and loaded with finesse, this stunning red still shows the estate's hallmark of elegance and structure, opening with enticing scents of rose, iris, wild red berry and a whiff of new leather. The vibrant palate is dazzling and almost ethereal, delivering flavors of succulent red cherry, pomegranate, star anise and a hint of forest floor. Taut, polished tannins and bright acidity provide impeccable balance." Wine Enthusiast

"The Biondi-Santi 2013 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is a stunning wine from all points of view. Seamless integration and elegant complexity are what stand out, and it's worth dedicating a few extra lines to the aromatic depth that is put so beautifully on display as the wine slowly unfolds. The bouquet starts off with wild cherry, earth, wet ash, crème de cassis and pruny chocolate. With extra time, there are hints of dried tobacco leaf, sandalwood and mossy forest floor. These lead to a fine tail of dried herb, bay leaf and a touch of rusty nail. The Riserva comes in numbered bottles, and I opened number 04277. To the palate, the wine is streamlined and silky with smooth tannins and a well-managed 13.5% alcohol content. The oak presence is reduced to a minimum, offering mild hints of spice and the delicate sandalwood or dried fig aroma I described above. Fresh acidity is the glue that gives the wine buoyancy and staying power. At this young stage, this 2013 vintage could be considered a bit shy or slow to start, but this will play out to great advantage in the long term as the wine continues its bottle evolution." Wine Advocate