VINOUS

The name says it all: Marne means marl soil, on which the vines for this marvellous Amarone grow. They are over 20 years old and lie in an ideal 180° direction, from south-west to south-east. Rich, shiny ruby red colour, compact bouquet with intense aromas of plum, black cherry, green tea and tobacco, with a fine chocolate note in the background. The body, coated in fine berry fruit, develops a dynamic flavour experience on the palate with a sweet fruit melt, firm tannins and a long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Ruby red in colour. Notes of ripe red fruit, cherries, redcurrants, blueberries with a slight hint of mint. Structured on the palate with warm and enveloping notes, present, well-integrated tannins. Long and juicy finish." Falstaff

"The Amarone della Valpolicella Marne 180 from the 2019 vintage is savoury and quite mineral and opens with various wild berries, herbal notes and brown spice. A juicy blend of ripe red and black fruits unfolds on the palate. Salty minerals slowly saturate and give the wine more traction towards the end. The 2019 finishes with a burst of inner sweetness contrasted by chewy concentration and framing tannins, leaving behind tart cherry and sage nuances." Vinous

"Almost coffee-coloured, dried red berries on the nose, developing into a full, silky palate with fine tannins that are well integrated into the wine, carrying the intense berry and dark cherry fruit into a long finish." James Suckling

"This lush yet well-balanced Amarone opens with aromas of black currant, wild blackberry dusted with wild herbs, sweet spices and pepper. Crushed black cherries, espresso and violet notes hold court on the structured palate, which is backed by a minerality and finishes with ripe tannins." Decanter

"Balsamic nose full of complex aromas of ripe dark plums, sultanas, black cherries, chocolate and spicy notes of meat juice. The palate is warm, broad and intense, supported by a lively acidity." Decanter

Black cherry fruit, smoke, wild herbs, liquorice and tar form a compelling backdrop of aromas, flavours and textures as this dazzling, powerful Barolo opens up in the glass. The intense final is accompanied by delicate rose petals, lavender and a fine mineral-salty vein. Its stable tannin structure awaits a few more years of ageing in the bottle, as is typically the case with a classic Serralunga Barolo. SUPERIORE.DE

"Beguiling nose with floral-spicy notes, smoky-mineral, tobacco, ripe redcurrant. Initially soft and red berry on the palate, then becomes more tightly meshed with a salty-mineral line, iron, highly elegant, taut and tense with a laser-like structure, finishes with the finest tobacco and sweet spices full of finesse." Weinwisser

"Polished and fresh thanks to limestone. Really lively and tense. Fresh!" Jancis Robinson

"Attractive notes of cherries, peaches, red plums and violets on the nose. Juicy and bright, with a medium body and delicious red berry fruit accompanied by fine-grained tannins." James Suckling

"The 2020 Barolo Baudana opens with a burst of plump, juicy, red-toned fruit. Bright acids and persistent tannins are a reminder we’re in Serralunga. The 2020 is going to need a few years to come together, but it is a relatively accessible wine for this part of the appellation. The purity of the fruit here is lovely. Pretty floral and spice overtones lift the finish effortlessly." Vinous

"With fruit from Serralunga d'Alba, the Luigi Baudana 2020 Barolo Baudana is a bold and ripe expression with dark currant, black cherry, sweet orange peel and crushed red rose. Soft, earthy layers appear on the mid-palate with hints of spicy licorice. All of that intensity, with soil, fruit and spice, swells over the palate, giving this wine an impactful character. It is almost ready to drink straight out of the gate." Wine Advocate

Amarone Calcarole is only produced in small quantities in the best vintages and has officially been allowed to bear the label Riserva since the 2015 vintage. The single vineyard of the same name is located above Villa di Rovereti in the heart of Negrar in the Valpolicella Classico region. The vineyard offers ideal conditions for great red wines due to its particularly warm climate and stony soil as well as its south-western exposure. The grapes are 100% dried in small crates in the historic rooms of Pojega. A wonderfully intense balsamic wine with memories of rosemary oil, damp forest floor and dried ginger. On the palate, complex berry flavours and a wonderful depth, Calcarole is thoroughly masculine, energetic and powerful, with tightly woven tannins and clearly structured. SUPERIORE.DE

"Showing a savory and earthy character, the Guerrieri Rizzardi 2016 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva Calcarole offers a mix of dried spice, bitter chocolate, dark fruit and herb. This is a full-bodied Amarone from a classic vintage that sits at an encouraging place in its drinking window. The alcohol measures an imposing 17%, but the wine actually goes down easier than you might expect. There is sweetness on the close with candid cherry or blood orange." Wine Advocate

"The Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva Calcarole 2016 is a sleeping giant with an abundance of crushed blueberries and black cherries accompanied by blood orange, allspice and mocha. This wine is deep and velvety in texture, with cooling mineral tones and vibrant acids contrasting with the rich red fruits on the palate. Balsamic spices and inner rose tones linger as the 2016 finishes with sweet tannins that frame this red wine perfectly. It is stunningly beautiful, but beware of the 17% alcohol content." Vinous

Piante a Lapio is a rich and complex white wine produced in small quantities (about 3,000 bottles per vintage) from the grapes of a single vineyard parcel of just under one hectare in the municipality of Boschi in Lapio (AV). It consists of 35-40 year old vines planted on stratified and complex calcareous soils with basaltic subsoil at an altitude of about 550 metres. The vineyard is protected at the back by a namesake forest, which contributes to the vineyard's special microclimatic conditions. Here, in the heart of Irpinia, white wines are produced with great freshness and good acidity levels, which, vinified with the necessary care, can age for over 20 years.

Deep, bright straw yellow. Rich and complex on the nose, interwoven with notes of spices, herbs, hazelnuts, citrus fruits, honey and salt. In the mouth it has a clear structure, complex, intense, refined and with great personality. Piante a Lapio is a full-bodied, long-lasting wine whose future development is already undoubtedly visible today (after sufficient aeration). SUPERIORE.DE

"Considering the ten years that the 2013 Piante a Lapio has rested in the winery before release, the vibrant yellow-gold color alone is stunning. Its aromatics impress even more, blending roasted almond and hazelnut with honeyed florals and crushed yellow apple. It smooths over the palate, weighty yet lifted and distinctly savory, with a slight tropical citrus profile complicated by depths of saline minerals and hints of rum raisin, yet not sweet by any scope of the imagination. The 2013 tapers off with tension, and young peach and dried apricot nuances stick around. The Piante a Lapio is a serious meditation wine, produced from 80-to-100-year-old Fiano vines and matured in a mix of chestnut and acacia casks for five years. It’s a stunning wine for the more adventurous palate." Vinous

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

A very special wine made from overripe and strictly selected Aglianico grapes that thrive in Mastroberardino's south-facing vineyards. The Taurasi is aged for two years in oak barrels and one year in the bottle. A wine with a fascinating personality, power and extremely high ageing Storage potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2018 Taurasi Radici is like pushing through a cinder block to find a treasure chest of exotic spices, incense and cinnamon-coloured blackcurrants. It's a soft and generous expression of Radici, with a depth of tart black fruits balanced by dark chocolate and sour citrus notes. It finishes with tremendous length, but without the typical hard tannins associated with Aglianico in its youth, leaving behind inner earth and herbal notes. The 2018 finishes on a savoury note. This Radici is a much stronger expression of Radici." Vinous

"Bright ruby red with a slightly brightening rim. On the nose, ripe heart cherries and dark forest berries, with an aftertaste of violets, leather and undergrowth, very complex. Fresh and savoury on the palate, with fine-grained and well-integrated tannins, lots of ripe fruit, long final, a long runner." Falstaff

"The Mastroberardino 2018 Taurasi Radici, with its distinctive black label, offers impressive complexity with a long succession of flavours that include dried blackberries, cherry liqueur, tarry smoke, campfire ash, sweet baking spices and cinnamon. Blackberries, rosemary sprigs and forest floor also characterise the bouquet. The whole is rounded off with soft tobacco. This wine displays powerful fruit and an equally balanced oak flavour. The tannins are well integrated and the Radici is long-lasting." Wine Advocate

"The nose is heavy with dark fruit and flowers, but edgier, slightly spicy aromas of graphite and pepper provide balance. On the palate, the fruit sweetens but is balanced by bitter dark chocolate, before an overwhelming earthiness arrives riding an avalanche of dusty tannins, and a rush of acid harkens back to the subtle metallic tang of the nose." Wine Enthusiast

Long Now is still a real insider tip for us. Dark ruby. Opulent nose with notes of black cherry, smoke, tobacco and liquorice. The palate is full of tension with a breadth and power that is unparalleled. In this exceptional wine, Barbera and Nebbiolo merge into a spectacular blend that moves richly, powerfully and with a beautiful, long resonance into a seemingly endless final. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2019 Long Now is fabulous. It offers up an exotic mélange of blackberry jam, chocolate, cloves, leather, mocha and sweet French oak. This heady, racy Barbera/Nebbiolo blend delivers the goods, and then some. The 2019 is a gorgeous Long Now." Vinous

Contrada Rampante with a finely woven bouquet of dark red cherries, flowers, mint and liquorice. Fresh and lively on the palate, with a memorable blend of ethereal sweetness, filigree acidity and interesting salinity. A contemplative drop that requires a certain amount of experience and patience to be fully discovered. Pre-Phylloxera = from rootless vines! SUPERIORE.DE

"Cask sample. Just mid crimson. Perfumed morello cherry and really tightly wound. Slow release of ripe raspberry and cherry fruit with a Nebbiolo-like, long tannic charge on the finish." Jancis Robinson

"Darkly elegant and poised, the 2017 Etna Rosso Contrada Rampante slowly comes to life. Exotic spice scents emerge, mixed with smoky crushed stone, dried roses and black cherries. It's silky-smooth with medium-bodied weight, complemented by bright acidity and a cooling mix of red and blue fruits. Sweet tannins and minerals mingle through the long, mouthwatering finale, leaving a lightly structured feel as inner violet florals slowly fade. This is incredibly pretty and already highly enjoyable, yet has short-term cellaring potential as well. Nicely done!" Vinous

"Attractive ripe berry, plum and spice aromas follow through to a medium to full body, chewy tannins and a powerful finish." James Suckling

"With pre-phylloxera fruit from 90-year-old vines in the village of Castiglione di Sicilia, this asset in the Pietradolce portfolio is a relatively new addition. The 2017 Etna Rosso Contrada Rampante shows some extra concentration and darkness that reflects the vineyard site and the hot growing conditions of the vintage. The wine offers a lot of savory characteristics with leather and crushed stone, but there are some solid tones of blackberry and wild plum at its core." Wine Advocate

Cerretto is a fruit-driven wine of virile, explosive power that shows, among other things, how different the wines of Serralunga can be. Black cherry, plum, sage, menthol and liquorice hit the palate in a firm, tannic Barolo that will require some patience, but already presents itself with remarkable freshness, purity and nuance. Cerretta is the embodiment of the richness and structure of Serralunga. SUPERIORE.DE

"Very inviting aroma with red and blue fruits, very elegant, with a very fine, balanced tannin structure, beautiful fruit sweetness without being overloaded, carried by a fine acidity. Wonderfully balanced, very well-balanced; a really beautiful wine that is already ready to drink." Weinwisser

"Rich and sweet. A bit heavier than the Baudana. Needs time." Jancis Robinson

"A fresh and elegant Barolo showing rose petals, wild strawberries, sour cherries and dried citrus peel on the nose. It’s medium-bodied, with very fine tannins and a crushed stone minerality coming through at the end." James Suckling

"The 2020 Barolo Cerretta is a very complete wine in this vintage. Deep and layered, but in the medium-bodied style of the year, the 2020 impresses with its balance and overall harmony. Succulent red cherry fruit, spice, rose petal, mint and dried herbs fill out the layers nicely. The substantial finish is quite attractive." Vinous

"The Luigi Baudana 2020 Barolo Cerretta has bold lines and shows dominant dark fruit. You get all of that Serralunga d'Alba intensity with ferrous earth, dried apricot, blackcurrant, iron ore and crushed stone. The wine ends on a dry note that is reinforced by the tight nature of the fine chalky tannins, but there is enough fruit to soften out the effect. There is a hint of nutmeg or sweet spice on the palate." Wine Advocate

The Rosso di Montalcino comes from slightly younger Brunello vines and is matured for 12 months in large oak barrels. It undoubtedly bears the signature of the top winery Biondi Santi: delicately sweet, open flavours of red berries, flowers and cloves. Like all of the winery's other wines, the Rosso is classic and firm in style, with a bombastic structure and a brilliant, long finish. True to the house, it also has a long ageing and maturation potential and can compete with some of the Brunello wines of the appellation today and in the future. SUPERIORE.DE

"Stylish, perfumed cherry and raspberry nose with a sweet balsamic note. Unobtrusive and balanced, fresh and the tannins are super-fine." Jancis Robinson

"The 2018 Rosso di Montalcino displays a bright, vibrant red colour in the glass, slowly unfolding to reveal pretty roses and hints of cherry, leather and Tuscan dust. The palate is silky and flattering, revealing outstanding purity with a vibrant display of wild strawberries and minerals. The 2018 then takes a turn towards the savoury side, becoming quite mineral yet remaining juicy and remarkably fresh for such a young Rosso." Vinous

"Elegant, graceful and fine, the Biondi-Santi 2018 Rosso di Montalcino offers a delicate approach to the senses and spreads out on the palate with polished and silky intensity. The acidity is very high in this vintage. A handful of historic producers in Montalcino are taking the Rosso category to the next level, and the venerable house of Biondi-Santi is one of them. This wine shows even ripening and is quite lively and tangy in terms of its acidity. In spectacular Sangiovese fashion, the wine finishes with lingering notes of wild cherry, sweet earth, floral soil and fragrant violets."

Barolo Bricco delle Viole 2018 is unusually open and seductive, as it is normally rather shy and needs time before it shows the full range of its personality. Rose petals, spices and red-coloured fruits float in the glass, supported by fine, racy tannins. In the drink, then, the typical, medium-heavy characteristics of Bricco delle Viole, at the same time the contours are soft and the wine's personality demands the next sip. Vajra fans should give it a few more years of maturity, despite its current accessibility. SUPERIORE.DE

"Appealing bouquet with nuances of wild berries, mushrooms and herbs; pithy attack with fine-grained tannin, the acidity well integrated, lots of melting and juice. Pleases with its compact style." Vinum

"Bright fruits, raspberries and citrus, floral and spicy notes; substantial type with taut acidity and balanced tannins; the bright and at the same time spicy character is also convincing on the palate, fine and focused, timelessly elegant." Weinwisser

"Bright, radiant ruby red with a lightening rim. Expressive on the nose, of wild berries, elderberries, also floral, then eucalyptus, plus noble spice, of black tea on the final. On the palate compact, juicy, with dense tannin, comes in several layers, energetic, salty in the final." Falstaff

"Just mid ruby with the beginning of orange tinges. Concentrated and subtle at the same time with brooding concentration and beautiful depth. Bags of chewy tannins that make their mark on the still-embryonic fruit on the palate. Long, elegant, fresh and still to open up further. Elegant filigree fruit on the finish. Definitely needs more time." Jancis Robinson

"Intense, flavorful Barolo that shows some good, nutty red-fruit character and fine, firm tannin. Medium-bodied and very tight. Needs time to even out." James Suckling

"The 2018 Barolo Bricco delle Viole is finely cut and chiseled, as it so often is. Dried flowers, mint, crushed rocks, pine and red berry fruit all grace this taut, sculpted Barolo. The 2018 has all of the energy of this site, but its signatures are decidedly dialed down." Vinous

"Heady aromas of violet, camphor, leather and tobacco lead the way on this fragrant red. On the palate, tightly knit, fine-grained tannins accompany ripe Marasca cherry, crushed raspberry and licorice. Fresh acidity keeps it balanced." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2018 Barolo Bricco delle Viole is not super intense, but it is balanced in its own way. The wine is subdued but complete with softly yielding tannins to support an elegantly streamlined mouthfeel. Bricco delle Viole is a high and cool growing site in Barolo at 400 to 480 meters in elevation with characteristic Sant'Agata marl soils with fossils. The wine represents a selection of fruit from over seven hectares. With fermentation in steel tank and aging in large Slavonian oak, you are invited to a silky, lifted and beautifully delicate experience with an accessible personality." Wine Advocate

"An elegant version, this red features rose, black currant, cherry, mineral and a hint of eucalyptus aromas and flavors. Linear in profile, this is solidly built on a graceful frame, with finely woven tannins and vibrant acidity." Wine Spectator

"The nervy style of Bricco delle Viole is excited by the lightness of the 2018 vintage. The nose is dominated by leafy lightness and vibrant aromas ranging from cherry kernel to lemon leaf. It could seem to have low complexity but its focused on a sort of austere freshness that's worth discovering. The firm palate with quite aggressive acidity and almost sturdy youth is allied to great fruit concentration. The savoury finish is loaded with dust and chalk." Decanter

Merlot Dominin 2019 is explosive from the first sip. The rich bouquet is complex with raspberries, flowers, liquorice and herbs. The palate is extremely complex with overripe and opulent fruits. A wine with sheer exuberant elements, but nevertheless very coherent in its entirety. Everything is in the right place here and it is clearly the flagship wine of the boutique winery and on par with the great red wines of Miani. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2019 Merlot Vigna Dominin opens with a dramatic bouquet, blending crushed blueberries with mentholated herbs and sweet tobacco. This is suave and elegant with a rush of polished red and black fruits while taking on a savory spiciness toward the close. The 2019 finishes incredibly long, as a web of fine-grained tannins wraps the palate in youthful poise. Black currant and chalky mineral tones slowly fade into the background. This powerful vintage of Merlot Vigna Dominin will require time to show its best. That said, it will be worth the wait." Vinous

"The Stilèma project was born as a testimony of Antonio Mastroberardino's love for his land, his vines and his wines, for their original character." Piero Mastroberardino

The project aims to highlight the link between the vines, the wines and their territorial origins. In this way, the Mastroberardino family wants to recreate the style of winemaking of the autochthonous grape varieties of Irpinia (Greco, Fiano and Aglianico) that took place between the end of the 1950s and the beginning of the 1970s of the twentieth century for the Taurasi and between the years 1970 and 1980 for the two white wines from Irpinia. It is the unmistakable style (the stilèma) of a family that has interpreted the natural heritage of its territory over generations and today impressively highlights the genuine character of the terroir, which by no means can be expressed by high concentration and intensity alone.

Stilèma Taurasi is an austere and complex wine with excellent drinkability and great ageing potential. A modern interpretation of the style of the great Taurasi from the 1950s and 1960s. Stilèma Taurasi is the result of a compositional work that has brought together different but synergistic micro-territorial stories, creating a unique and complex expressiveness. Pietradefusi, Montemarano, Paternopoli and Mirabella Eclano are the different sites of the family from which the grapes come, distinguished by their altitude, microclimate and soils.

Soft ruby red with delicate reflections and luminous transparency. The nose offers complex aromas, fruity and floral nuances in harmony with spicy hints, further on cherry, plum, blackberry, caramel, tobacco, vanilla, leather and cloves. Fresh, tasty, agile on the palate, with a silky tannin structure that harmonises well with all the other components. Tart and complex, with great drinkability and convincing length. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense, sparkling ruby garnet. Opens on the nose with notes of pomegranate, blood orange, tobacco and cranberries. Very polished in attack and course, nice play, fine-meshed tannin, but overall seems a bit frothy, very far from the impetuous power of a Taurasi." Falstaff

"Fresh and elegant, this well-meshed red layers taut, fine tannins with a ripe core of cherry and cranberry puree, a streak of smoke-tinged minerality and accents of tea leaves and woodsy spices that echo on the finish." Wine Spectator

"The Taurasi Riserva Stilèma 2016 is a deeply sensual wine. Swirl the glass to discover the depths of sour cherry and red plum, accompanied by hints of spice cake and a pinch of clove. It is seamlessly silky and smooth, with a textural wave of polished blackberries and currants, underlined by salty minerals. The wine's density is balanced by vibrant acidity, while the chiselled tannins slowly assert themselves. The 2016 finishes with decent length and spicy herbal and acidic citrus nuances. In a very short time, the Taurasi Riserva Stilèma has established itself as one of the top wines in Mastroberardino's portfolio." Vinous

"This is a very refined expression of Aglianico with a clear red fruit character. With air, additional notes of pressed flowers, burnt orange peel and dark chocolate emerge, creating a complex whole. Medium to full body with well integrated tannins and a long finish. Delicious." James Suckling

"Here is another new Riserva to add to the portfolio of Mastroberardino wines. The 2016 Taurasi Riserva Stiléma is a traditional wine, or a reinterpretation of a traditional wine, that pays homage to some of the great bottles of yesteryear with shorter maceration times for moderate phenolic extraction and the use of neutral French and Slavonian oak that emphasise elegance over power. This streamlined and polished wine reveals dark fruits, cardamom, smoked tobacco and tertiary aromas of liquorice and tar that are just beginning to emerge. Despite the wine's age, you can taste the transparency of the fruit: Flesh, skins, stems and all." Wine Advocate

Deep bouquet of black berries and cocoa, violets and lavender. On the palate flavours of cherries, blackberries and wild berries, in the long finish the invigorating fresh impressions of medicinal herbs. A dense, polished and stately wine of the upper class. SUPERIORE.DE

"A masterpiece of polished perfection from Corvina, Rondinella and Oseleta for 48 months in large oak casks. Black cherries, liquorice, rhubarb, a mentholated touch on the olfaction, rich and multifaceted. Juicy, persistent, with a return of black fruits and mentholated on the palate." Luca Gardini

"Extremely complex notes of sweet plums, black cherry syrup and dried flowers with a powerful tannin core and illustrious structure. Long and persistent with an herbaceous note on the finish." Decanter

"The 2017 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva Sergio Zenato is very classic Zenato style, with macerated cherries, sultanas, sweet herbs, cocoa, black pepper and cedar chips. This wine is very structured, with a dense wave of mineral-coated dark red fruits and balsamic spice supported by a core of bracing acidity. Mocha and clove mingle with blackcurrant and olive as the 2017 finishes dramatically long and powerful. There is just so much going on here, and more is guaranteed to come with ageing. It's also worth noting that the 2017 has a residual sugar content of just 3.3 grams. This wine is as serious as it gets." Vinous

"This is one of those wines where the nose lingers long in the glass to savour the complex aromas that range from raspberries to dates, fragrant bark to polished wood, pressed flowers to fresh mushrooms. Full-bodied, dense and concentrated with fine, well-integrated tannins, plenty of fruit flavours and an endless finish." James Suckling

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fuligni's 2019 Brunello shows balance and symmetry with plenty of primary vigour to ensure longevity in the cellar. The bouquet opens with dark plums, dried raspberries, spices, aniseed and grilled herbs - especially lavender and rosemary. The palate is medium-bodied, beautifully balanced, with a complex weave of fruit, minerals and tannins. It is disempoweringly generous and has a subtle opulence, but never weighs down the palate. The powerful, refined tannins are finely powdered and the penetrating acidity radiates evenly but not obtrusively. Notes of liquorice, violets, blood orange and iron emerge at the end. Long-lasting and effortlessly confident, as you would expect from Fuligni! SUPERIORE.DE

"Pleasant appearance with a nose of black berries and flowers, also tobacco notes; powerful on the palate, the tannins robust, combines character with minerality and elegance. Can mature." Vinum

"Complex, deeply layered bouquet with dark cherry, earthy nuances, blue berries and a reassuringly cool vein. Super juicy palate, incredibly multi-layered with a very juicy vein, linear orientation, super spicy, vinified in the traditional style, lingers forever with herbal, dark fruity and floral notes. One of the best of the tasting!" Weinwisser

"Sparkling ruby-garnet colour with a brightening rim. Aromas of black cherries and blackberries on the nose, very clear, some plums, a hint of leather in the background. Firm, dense tannins, shows a lot of tension and pressure, dark berry fruit on the finish, great development potential." Falstaff

"Ripe, deep ruby red with orange-coloured reflections. Slumbering nose with exotic spice notes on the nose. Still in its infancy, but polished with fine-grained tannins that need more time. Long, finely aromatic finish of cherries and raspberries. So supple and elegant and at the same time not unfocussed. Carries its 15 % effortlessly. Real substance, but not heavy." Jancis Robinson

"Rich, refreshing and complex, with flavours of cherry, plum, earth, leather and minerals. This red wine is lively, with notes of liquorice and tamarind. Best of all is the ripe fruit, supple texture and resonant tannins that extend to a white pepper finish." Wine Spectator

"The Fuligni 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is rich in dark fruit, balanced by spicy notes of tobacco leaf and cigar ash, and beautifully concentrated. After a short time, the bouquet reveals a floral intermezzo with dried rose petals and a tropical note of hibiscus. This wine shows many facets, all of which are very pleasant and work together. The tannins are dusty and finely structured with a hint of powdery cocoa on the finish." Wine Advocate

"Dusty and floral, the 2019 Brunello di Montalcino opens with a fragrant blend of dried roses, cherries, mint and lavender candy. On the palate, it is elegant and seamlessly silky, enveloping the senses with ripe red berry fruits contrasted by a bitter hint of cloves. A core of vibrant acidity provides a beautiful balance, while a web of fine tannins saturates the palate and leaves a pleasant sensation of chewiness. The 2019 is classic through and through." Vinous

"This historic and reliable winery does not disappoint in 2019. It is expressive rather than austere and will reveal more with time. But the flavours - a striking fusion of chestnut forest and polished wood with fennel and spiced plums - are already so enticing. It fills the mouth with glossy red berries and pressed violets, and after an initial caress, the tight-knit tannins intensify on the palate and remain balanced in volume. A complex and detailed wine with great depth." Decanter

"Perfumed with aromas of sweet berries, fresh flowers and cedar wood, leading to a medium-bodied palate with firm and chewy tannins and a fresh finish. Very noble and structured. Extremely long. Give it time to open up." James Suckling

"Orthodox in flavour and vinification, a Brunello of intensity and tension. Notes of pomegranate on the nose, with hints of eucalyptus and juniper, then lemon thyme on the finish. Salty, juicy tannins on the finish, with balsamic notes and pomegranate." Luca Gardini

Vigna Paganelli 2016 is a phenomenal achievement and a wine that not only captures the spirit of this equally great vintage, but also the true essence of a very authentic Brunello Riserva. This wine from the single vineyard of the same name is sharp, flawless and impeccable. It starts slowly and shyly, but then blossoms into beautiful intensity and aromatic brilliance. It offers a very authentic and unadulterated interpretation of Sangiovese with aromas of wild berries followed by pressed violets, damp earth, tobacco and lightly toasted spices. The bouquet is seamless and very long-lasting. The same applies to the mouthfeel. The wine offers a fine and silky texture with a good dose of power and personality on the finish. One of the best Riserve of the outstanding 2016 vintage! SUPERIORE.DE

"Promising notes of raspberries, flanked by dried flower aromas and liquorice; the attack is compact, the acidity and tannins skilfully placed, elegant-classic finish. Can still mature." Vinum

"Deep ruby with bricky rim. A little herbal and massive on the nose and still a little closed. Bags of cherry fruit on the palate with lots of juicy acidity stitched together by compact tannins. Very long, layered and impressive. Real Riserva quality." Jancis Robinson

"Sparkling ruby colour with a slightly brightening rim. Very clear and finely characterised nose, aromas of fresh red cherries and fine raspberry. Polished, fine-meshed tannins on the palate, shows lots of juicy fruit, describes a wide range." Falstaff

"The freshness and depth are impressive, with a floral, dark berry and cherry character that develops into a full body with chewy tannins that are polished and solid. Spicy on the finish. Needs time to mellow. Best after 2024." James Suckling

"Cedar, forest floor and new leather aromas come to the forefront along with violet and dried botanical herbs. Full-bodied and enveloping, the savory palate delivers dried cherry, orange zest, licorice and white pepper framed in velvety tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"The estate's oldest parcel, Vigna Paganelli, is a 12-hectare vineyard that was planted in 1964. It has a rich variety of old Sangiovese clones, which are used for the newer plantings. Spiced plums, cured leather and an array of marjoram, tarragon and basil generously entice. Despite its size, it carries its girth with charming ease. The fruit is rich and sweet, while ripe, grainy tannins provide a scaffold. Beneath all these layers, a mineral note emerges. It will be hard to resist when young, but I suspect the complex details will become more apparent with time." Decanter

"A beam of pure cherry permeates this lean, elegant red wine, shaded by floral, mineral, wild herb and orange peel accents. Well-structured and long, it has the balance, grip and intensity for a long life." Wine Spectator

"This is the top wine from Il Poggione, and it is a must for anyone who collects wines from this famous winery. The Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Vigna Paganelli 2016 is a beauty and comes from a top vintage. It stands at the intersection of intensity, elegance and power. The fruit is well-formed and dense, with plenty of blackberry and black cherry, and you also get savoury notes of bonfire ash, tar, liquorice, ferruginous earth and balsamic herbs. Frankly, you get it all, including Brunello's unmistakable power and richness, which are not easy to achieve with such careful balance. The finish is structured, fresh and long, and the longer it lingers in the glass, the more pronounced the leathery and spicy flavours become." Wine Advocate

"A beguiling blend of camphor and minty herbs, along with crushed stone, slowly waft away to reveal dark depths of black raspberry, liquorice, autumnal spices and worn leather as the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Vigna Paganelli unfolds in the glass. Its textures are unexpectedly soft and velvety-smooth, paired with depths of intense red fruit that emerge just before a mix of vibrant acids and tannins that create a tactile and youthfully arresting expression on the final. The palate suffers from the structural weight of the 2016, but still has enough primary concentration to maintain balance, while wild savoury herbs and earthy mineral tones linger for up to a minute. The potential of this wine is unrivalled, but harvestwill need to be very patient." Vinous

"A historic vineyard planted in 1964, an equally reliable vineyard. A Riserva from fermentation in stainless steel, then in French oak barrels, beautiful olfactory profile with raspberry jam, notes of lemon thyme and nutmeg. Iodised tannins on the palate, fruity finish and crispness." Luca Gardini

Beautiful and very well-balanced red wine from the three main historical areas of Montalcino, which have different geoclimatic characteristics due to their different slopes and altitudes, thus ensuring a unique balance between freshness and structure, body and elegance. Ruby red in colour with garnet hues, it opens immediately with a rich, complex nose. Initially dark cherry, chinotto orange and violet. It then opens up to broader, more complex notes of blueberry, vanilla, tobacco, cinnamon and chocolate with a subtle menthol finish. The primary fruit is surrounded by spice, grilled herbs and floral earth; nice length. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red colour. Cherry and tomato leaf on the nose, then a fine leather flavour. Good freshness and juicy fruit on the palate, shows firm body and pressure, accessible, delicately bitter on the final." Falstaff

"Deep ruby red colour. Compact and dense on the nose with notes of sweet raspberries and fresh mint. Lots of sweet raspberry fruit on the palate with a tangy acid nerve that runs through the fullness of the fruit. Firm but ripe and fine-grained tannins. A fairly rich wine, but one that will probably age well." Jancis Robinson

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino exudes hints of wild berries, violet pastille and sweet smoke. This is a seductive effort with juicy acidity and vibrant red and blue fruits swirling throughout. Autumnal spices and dark chocolate slowly saturate towards the finish. The 2019 finishes long yet remarkably fresh with a hint of liquorice and slightly grippy tannins. The 2019 aims to please and will provide early satisfaction after a short stay in the cellar while the single-vineyard wines slowly mature." Vinous

"The Brunello from the Val di Suga vineyard is made up of equal parts from the Vigna del Lago vineyard in the north-east, Poggio al Granchio in the south-east and Vigna Spuntali in the south-west of Montalcino. The bright ruby red colour and youthful freshness are well preserved. Concentrated aromas of red cherry with a hint of pepper fade into deep violet and sweet earth. The medium-bodied palate is appealing and pure, offering layers of lush red berry and plump persimmon flavours underscored by juicy acidity. The sandy textured tannins are supple and yielding. Hard to resist." Decanter

"This lively red wine is smooth and harmonious, with strawberry, cherry and blackcurrant fruit flavours underpinned by mineral and wild herbal notes. Dusty tannins give it grip and texture on the finish. Excellent length." Wine Spectator

"A blend of three vineyards belonging to three different sides of the appellation. Durone di Vignola on the nose, a hint of lemon thyme and clementine peel. Juicy on the palate, with a hint of savoury and balsamic notes. Persistent." 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

Bright red colour. Sweet spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg and vanilla complement the aromas of dark red and black cherries on the fresh, sexy nose. Lively, juicy and sweet on the palate, but with a tactile mouthfeel and spicy flavours of red cherries, herbs and sassafras. The youthful, crisp finish, which emphasises notable but polished oak nuances, is pleasantly persistent. A real plus point is the balance of this wine, it is a spicy, well-structured Rosso on a clear Brunello level and a real beauty! SUPERIORE.DE

"Crushed stones, wild strawberries and dusty dried flowers form a seductive bouquet when the Rosso di Montalcino 2020 opens in the glass. It is elegant and feminine in style, with soft textures and ripe red fruits, while chalky tannins build towards the finish. The 2020 tapers off grippy but with a hint of residual acidity. The orange flavours retain a lovely freshness. The Rosso from Pian dell'Orino is one of the top performers year after year." Vinous

Rose petals, spices and red-coloured fruit float in the glass, supported by fine, racy tannins. On the palate, the typical, medium-bodied characteristics of Bricco delle Viole are evident, while the contours are soft and the wine's personality demands the next sip. Vajra fans should give it a few more years to mature, despite its current accessibility. SUPERIORE.DE

"Modern nose with still noticeable wood influence, dark red berries, slightly gelled. Behind this, however, it becomes exciting with earthy mineral notes and red and violet flowers. Juicy and dense with a melting texture, very elaborate, sweet tannin texture, berry, rich final with a fine tannic attack on the finish." Weinwisser

"Wonderful roundness after a light animal scent. A ballet dancer with muscles - and a certain tenderness." Jancis Robinson

"Historically, the Bricco delle Viole is the highest Barolo and remains the highest of the Vajra bottlings. The vines from 1931, 1949 and 1968 have a round shape and early ripeness. Smoky violets and crushed slate characterise the aromas. On the palate, dried strawberries and purple plum flesh offer fruitiness, followed by minerality and lift from crushed red stones, and mace and clove provide a sweet spice on the finish." Decanter

"Rose petals, racy plums and cherries with subtle white pepper spice and minerals. The taut, full-bodied palate is gripped by fine, mineral-structured tannins. Powerful, rich and vertical in the centre before a long, mineral finish. It's a pleasure to taste now, but it will be even better in two to three years." James Suckling

"The Barolo Bricco delle Viole 2020, Vajra's flagship wine, is very good. Dark cherry, cherry, blood orange, spice and lavender are nicely amplified. The 2020 is graceful and elegant, but its youthful Nebbiolo tannins will need some time to settle down. The 2020 is another wine that piques my keen interest with its sublime balance." Vinous

This Riserva is only made available each year in very small quantities to hand-picked specialist retailers and top restaurants. Brilliant ruby red colour. Fine raspberry and floral notes dominate the spicy nose. Very juicy on the palate, tannins and acidity are well integrated. Riecines Riserva has length and suppleness right through to the long fruity finish. The elegance and fine melting texture are impressive. Once again, this is Sangiovese at the top level that Riecine is known for! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby colour with garnet-red reflections. A savoury nose with ripe fruit of cranberries and blackberries. Fruity-sweet and juicy on the palate, opens up with a wide arc, powerful, right into the slightly salty final." Falstaff

"Cinnamon and balsamic notes permeate redcurrant with a core of pomegranate and cranberry on the palate. The tannins are quite compact and the acidity is lively, giving an edgy expression in the moment." Decanter

"The 2020 Chianti Classico Riserva is a real stunner with its remarkable depth and textural resonance. Black cherry, spices, mocha and dried herbs are some of the many notes that unfold in the glass. A wine with substance and presence, the 2020 offers plenty of intensity, but is by no means over the top." Vinous

"The 2020 Chianti Classico Riserva has notes of cherry liqueur and sweet crème de cassis on the nose, and the mouthfeel reflects some of the viscous nature of these descriptions. However, this pretty wine also shows depth and varietal clarity, supported by a medium structure." Wine Advocate

"Sandalwood and cherry with some orange peel. Medium body. Fine tannins. Crisp and bright. Lively and delicious. A hint of orange peel and brightness on the finish." James Suckling

"Riserva di Riecine, from a selection of the estate's best plots, clay-limestone soils and pure Sangiovese. On the nose, notes of red cherries, mentholated notes and nutmeg, with hints of eucalyptus. Juicy mouthfeel, with iodised tannins, a fruity, mentholated finish and persistence." Luca Gardini

Feudi's Riserva Piano di Montevergine is only vinified in outstanding years. The wine has a very impressive concentration and great richness. On the nose dark fruit, blackberry, flowers and spices, on the palate elegant, powerful flavours flanked by silky polished tannins and wood aromas. A wine with enormous potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark and brooding, the 2015 Taurasi Riserva Piano di Montevergine slowly awakens in the glass with a captivating blend of menthol, mint and exotic spices that evolves with a vibrant note of cinnamon-dusted currants. Velvety smooth and elegant, this wine seems heavy at first, but is quickly enlivened by a core of vibrant acidity and zesty citrus notes that embellish the tart black fruits. The tannins on the finish are sweet and chalky, while notes of wild red plums and blood oranges keep the taster coming back." Vinous

"Rich ruby red with a slightly lightening rim. In the nose rather restrained at the beginning, then after ripe cranberries, sour cherries and plums, in the reverberation underbrush and tobacco. Powerful and lush on the palate, with polished tannin, finely balanced, has power, long and balsamic final." Falstaff

"Fleshy and vegetal notes on the nose with dried earth and pistachio skin. Also cloves. It is full-bodied with layers of ripe and dried black fruits, cloves, walnuts and smoked meat." James Suckling

"Sourced from the villages of Piano di Montevergine and Taurasi, this Riserva is harvested from relatively young vines aged between 15 and 20 years. Aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, it focuses on graphite minerality and restrained cassis, enhanced by an herbaceous character and wild dark fruits linked by cocoa powder on the nose and palate. The tannins are velvety with tremendous mid-palate extraction and powerful acidity, yet the wine is balanced due to the great fruit concentration. Overall a bold style that will improve with age." Decanter

"This is a great vintage with plenty of spice and smoke. The 2015 is more explosive and the 2016 is more direct, refined and elegant. This wine has great volume in the mouth and is very impressive. Historically the best vintages of this important wine include 1999, 2001, 2010 and 2013." Wine Advocate

The Rosso di Montalcino comes from slightly younger Brunello vines and is aged for 12 months in large oak barrels. It undoubtedly bears the signature of the top winery Biondi Santi: delicately sweet open bouquet of red berries, flowers and clove. The Rosso, like all the other wines of the winery, is of classic and firm style, with a bombastic structure and a brilliant, long finish. True to the house, it also has a long ageing potential and can compete with some Brunellos of the appellation today and the day after tomorrow. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, radiant ruby red. Finely fragrant nose of ripe red berries, rose hips, a hint of dried citrus fruit, noble wood and some delicate leather spice. On the palate, polished and tightly woven, with a gently creamy entry, comes along in many layers, punchy and with clear, precise length." Falstaff

"The 2019 Rosso di Montalcino keeps me returning to the glass to savour its dusty blend of dried strawberries and currants, underlined by nuances of shaved pine and mint. Soft and round in expression, the 2019 impresses with its lush textures and vibrant wild berry fruit. All the while, a core of saline tension builds, blending minerals with gentle tannins as the 2019 finishes with a touch of concentration yet retains a lovely freshness." Vinous

"Aromas of sliced citrus, cherries and flowers follow through to a medium body, with creamy tannins and crisp fruit on the finish. A lovely combination of fruit and acidity. Very drinkable now, but it will age well." James Suckling

"Rosso di Montalcino 2019, which convinces with its pure bouquet and lively fruit. It shows very detailed and chiselled aromas of wild cherry, cassis, dried violets, rust and orange peel. The wine has a strong structural framework, but the mouthfeel is still ethereal and light." Wine Advocate