VINOUS

The Riserva Lupi e Sirene (Wolves and Mermaids) label is reminiscent of the good old days when Podere le Ripi was so remote that the howling of the wolves was the only sound you could hear at night.

Light, delicate ruby red colour that beautifully interprets the typical transparency of Brunello and Sangiovese Grosso. Fine bouquet of small red fruits, skilfully surrounded by earthy and mineral notes. On the palate, it offers a fascinating purity and energy without ever being excessive. Its linear body is so fluid and polished that it captures the attention of all the senses for a very long time. Lupi e Sirene is the most elegant and refined of the estate's impressive Brunello range. SUPERIORE.DE

"An enticing blend of dusty rose, cinnamon and clove gives way to lifting traces of mint and dried strawberries as the sweetly spiced 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Lupi e Sirene blossoms in the glass. This is pure elegance, with velvety textures guided by fresh acidity and polished red and blue fruits complicated by a savory herbal thrust toward the close. The balance here is otherworldly. The 2018 finishes with unexpected vibrancy despite a web of fine tannins that grumble on as licorice notes slowly fade. Packed full of character and holding its power in reserve, the 2018 is a textural thrill ride. This is on a beautiful, yet slow, path to maturity." Vinous

Poggio Rosso Gran Selezione from the top year 2016 is a paragon of intensity and a fullness of fruit that layers beautifully. Very beautiful interpretation of the Sangiovese grape with a dense core and lots of padding around it. Rich ruby garnet, very fine texture and structure on the palate that only fully reveals itself with the necessary time in the glass. It is tense and powerful in its youthful years, the acidity and also the well-built tannin are programmed to develop, for only in a few years will it fully reveal its full elegance and greatness. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby red. In the nose of ripe forest fruits underlined by delicate leather spice. On the palate gripping with wide-meshed tannin, delicate dryness, but has plenty of salt, seems mineral, can and should still mature." Falstaff

"From a parcel originally planted in the 1970s with selected Sangiovese clones. Appropriately developing in its aroma profile, this doles out tobacco, bay leaf, leather, dried thyme and a suggestion of chestnut. The palate is bright with sour cherry, tart redcurrant, and a kick of tangy acidity. The tannins are compact and dense - still quite chewy, this could do with another year or so in the cellar." Decanter

"This bright red features cherry, raspberry, floral and spice aromas and flavors allied to a silky texture. Iron, sanguine and toasty accents add complexity. Firm and built to age, with a terrific finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Poggio Rosso is a powerful, bold wine that captures all the natural intensity of Castelnuovo Berardenga. Dark cherry, plum, mocha, espresso, lavender and French oak are all amped up. Exuberant and generous in the glass, with superb richness, the 2016 has so much to offer. The style is extroverted - there is no doubting that - but all the elements are impeccably balanced." Vinous

"The San Felice 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Poggio Rosso shows a saturated appearance with dark garnet and ruby colors. Following that beautiful appearance in the glass, the wine opens to cassis, wild cherry, spice and toasted wood. The oak element is an important component of the mouthfeel that shows solid, mid-weight heft and long, polished tannins that would be a nice accompaniment to a filet mignon." Wine Advocate

"A beautiful, soft-textured Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, showing currant, berry and black-cherry aromas with some floral and lavender undertones. It's full-bodied, yet balanced and refined. Super quality." James Suckling

Elena Fucci's exceptional wine Titolo is already built for the long haul in the "basic variant". It will continue its steady development for at least the next 20 years, so it is a joy to drink at a mature age, especially in magnum format. Dark ruby red, on the nose aromas of ripe red fruits and a fine wood spice. Put together with enormous precision, the wine offers a balanced intensity and a nice level of fruit purity that speaks both for the Aglianico grape and the extreme territory that produces it. Titolo convinces with its fine texture and elegantly integrated tannins. This is a masterful Aglianico performance, just the way we love it. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, dark ruby garnet. Fragrant nose of dried rose, ripe strawberries, a hint of vanilla, honey in the aftertaste, inviting bouquet. Opens softly on the palate with polished tannin, clear red fruit, stretches finely and elegantly over the tongue, compact tannin presses gently on the palate in the finish." Falstaff

"There's no mistaking the masses of pure, mineral-laden, musky Aglianico del Vulture fruit that wafts up from the 2018 Titolo. It's dark, with violet florals and smoke smoldering in the glass. The silky and pliant textures within wash a polished wave of mineral-tinged black fruits and savory exotic spices across the palate with ease, propelled by zesty acidity. Grippy tannins emerge, yet the mouth waters as a salty flourish lingers, along with hints of licorice and lavender. The 2018 won't be the longest-lived vintage of Titolo, but this beauty will excel easily through medium-term cellaring." Vinous

"Plush aromas of violet, juniper, cherry and bramble berry burst on the nose. Medium in weight, there's a driven, ample feel to the juicy red-cherry and blackberry flavors, with bits of tar and pressed rose arising on the midpalate. Yet, throughout the whole experience, bouncy berry fruit and zesty crushed mineral tones remain constant." Wine Enthusiast

Every year one of the great single-vineyard wines of the Tenuta, representing in a highly complex way the special terroir of the high altitudes on Etna. Dark red fruits, orange peel and flowers on the nose. Then juicy fruit, wonderful depth and a finely chiselled tannin structure. A subtle spiciness on the finish and always present the outstanding structure, length and elegance! SUPERIORE.DE

"Aromas of wild herb, violet, red berry and a hint of hazelnut come to the forefront. Taut and focused, the ethereally elegant palate offers red cherry, blood orange, star anise and a hint of espresso before a saline close. Fine-grained tannins and bright acidity provide graceful support." Wine Enthusiast

"Dried raspberry and kirsch notes are rich and juicy on the palate of this expressive, medium- to full-bodied red, accented by candied violet and star anise aromatics. It's well-balanced and mouthwatering, with an underpinning of racy minerality driving the chewy finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Etna Rosso Calderara Sottana keeps you at the edge of the glass, taking in its earthy yet gorgeous bouquet. Waves of crushed ashen stone, peppery herbs, blackberries and roses lift up effortlessly. This is silky in texture, with an unbelievably pure and vivid display of red fruits laced with salty minerals, as brisk acids create a sweet-and-sour tug of tension toward the close. The cheeks pucker, saturated with youthful tannin, as the 2018 Calderara Sottana clamps down hard, leaving only a hint of licorice and tart red berries in its wake. Close your eyes, and you might think this was a young, top-shelf Serralunga Barolo." Vinous

"So floral and fresh with cherries, watermelon, apples, crushed stone and flowers on the nose. It's medium-to full-bodied with firm tannins and fresh, vivid acidity that takes you down the palate." James Suckling

Rich, concentrated Bordeaux-style red with the unmistakable signature of top oenological consultant Stéphane Derenoncourt. Multi-layered black fruit on the nose, plus rock, liquorice, camphor and graphite. Impressively supple on the palate, the fruit is always juicy and centred, wonderful and almost perfect in structure, polish, elegance and length. SUPERIORE.DE

"La Massa has been one of the best producers of Chianti Classico since the 1990s. Its mature, viscous colour appears older than 2019. Rich and concentrated, the Giorgio Primo brings out the classic Tuscan sweetness in the nose, is very spicy and full, with slightly matured accents here too. Very appealing and with a lot of Cabernet character, it appears sweeter than other Tuscan Bordeaux blends, for example from Bolgheri. Very smooth and round, meltingly sweet, yet with a slightly strict, consistent acidity. Beautiful, powerful appearance, not designed for decades of development, but rather immediately accessible, clearly structured and with a sweet, generous finish." Weinwisser

"Rich, deep dark ruby colour with a slight violet tinge. Very clear and intense nose, with rich notes of blackcurrants, black cherries and plums, with a hint of ginger in the background. The attack and finish are very polished, lots of fine-meshed tannins, builds up plenty of pressure, with a long, savoury aftertaste of tobacco." Falstaff

"Wonderful aromas of blackcurrants and blackberries with notes of crushed stones and walnuts. Full-bodied, firm and chewy tannins with blackberries and hints of chocolate and spices. Flavourful and intense on the finish. Better after 2023, but also very nice now." James Suckling

"The nose is reminiscent of a summer barbecue with clouds of smoky meat mingling with dark, luscious berries and fruit. On the palate, dessert arrives with a slice of berry pie, but peppery spiciness and burning tannins provide balance through a bitter, refined, lingering finish." Wine Enthusiast

"The Fattoria La Massa 2018 Giorgio Primo is a wine of richness, volume and texture. The blend consists of 55 % Cabernet Sauvignon, 40 % Merlot and 5 % Petit Verdot. The maceration time is 26 to 28 days and gives the wine the beautiful depth and creaminess that you can taste here. The bouquet is reminiscent of black fruits, crushed stones, truffles and roasted spices. The full-bodied structure of the wine and its freshness promise long ageing in the cellar." Wine Advocate

"The Giorgio Primo 2018 represents a new level of finesse at La Massa. Powerful and dense in the glass, with tremendous structure, the Giorgio Primo is a great example of how compelling international varieties are in the Conca d'Oro area of Panzano. Crème de cassis, spices, new leather, chocolate and sweet spices build up on the structured, intensely flavoured finish." Vinous

Rosso Ca'del Merlo is a refined cuvée of Sangiovese, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Corvina, Croatina, Nebbiolo and Rondinella. With its 7 years of ageing in wood and its dark, fruity Cabernet style, it once again demonstrates the great class of the house. In the breathtaking bouquet, peppery herbs and flowers meander towards a mixture of crushed blackberries and cloves. Silky and elegant on the palate, with a pure blend of wild berry fruits and sweet spices framed by a mineral acidity. Violet blossoms resonate on the long and slightly smoky finish, which ends long and fresh with a tart hint. Power meets grace, with tremendous style and breed. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Valpolicella Classico Superiore Ca’ del Merlot is distinctly savory in the glass, with a thrust of wild herbs that evolves into fresh picked strawberries and wet stone. This is a model of purity and balance, with brilliant acidity that propels its crisp wild berry fruits as violet inner florals collect toward the close. Further elevated by a hint of confectionary spice, it tapers off remarkably fresh and vivid, with a blueberry tinge and dusty tannins that promise a lovely evolution. This is a gorgeous interpretation of Cà dal Merlo. It's a blend of 80% Corvina, Corvinone, and Rondinella, with 20% Cabernet and Merlot, with half of the grapes dried for two months and the other half pressed fresh after harvest." Vinous

Zenato's Amarone is all about elegance, with ripe fruit at the centre of the inviting bouquet with light notes of aromatic herbs. Powerful, sparkling ruby colour. Very appealing and multi-layered nose of plum, black cherry and a hint of leather. The palate reveals its overripe power, fine tannins and warm, expansive flavour. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright garnet red with a broad, brightening rim. Baroque bouquet on the nose, of sultanas, preserved cherry and varnish. Powerful on the palate, slightly warming, with a fine-grained tannin structure, mouth-filling and extremely long on the tongue." Falstaff

"Very ripe nose with aromas of dried sultanas, toffee, angelica and dark plum fruit. Powerful, soft and warm on the palate." Decanter

"A harmonious version, round and medium to full-bodied, with fine tannins wrapped in a fragrant blend of macerated cherries and strawberries, tea roses and tea leaves, minerals and spices. Juicy finish." Wine Spectator

"The Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2018 is exotic in the glass, with nuances of blood orange and mint that fade into preserved cherries and cloves. Supple and round on the entry, it impresses with its core of lively acidity and vividly ripe red fruits, which create an interplay of sweet and sour on the palate. The wine finishes with depth and concentration, but is also unexpectedly fresh and allows notes of plums and autumnal spices to linger for a long time. For this vintage, this is an extremely successful achievement. I take my hat off to Zenato." Vinous

"Very aromatic, with flavours of dried red and black fruits, including dried blueberries and dates, along with a lovely, spicy layer of nutmeg and pressed flowers. Full-bodied with an amazingly harmonious texture on the palate, thanks to the dense, very fine tannins, which also provide super length. A bright, salty, mineral note sets in and drives the finish even further. Exquisite Amarone." James Suckling

From deep moraine soil with a high salt and lime content, Vigna Au first opens with flint and walnut and then beguiles with a complex bouquet of yellow, exotic fruits. Intense, juicy, with just the right amount of acidity, it has a maturation potential of at least 15 years. Just 2,000 bottles of this exceptional Chardonnay are bottled each year. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Vigna Au lies at a relatively low altitude of 300 metres above sea level in Kurtatsch-Margreid. Great aromas, with very clear citrus fruit and flavours of yellow fruit, paired with fine oak spice. Also mineral notes reminiscent of graphite and salt. Extremely juicy, clear and animating on the palate. Pithy final." Vinum

"The 2020 Chardonnay Riserva Vigna AU blends rich notes of almond custard and confectionary spice with an invigorating blend of crushed green apples and lime zest. Luxuriously round and supple, the 2020 flows across the palate with masses of mineral-tinged orchard fruits offset by sour citrus. Lightly structured yet full of zesty tension, the 2020 finishes long with a caking of saline tension that resonates." Vinous

Barbera d'Alba Scarrone from the vineyard of the same name is a beautifully layered, rich Barbera cru. Aromas of dark fragrant fruits, spices, liquorice and minerals. Opulent and impeccably balanced silky tannins, sweet floral notes in the long dry finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Lifted and very aromatic, this wine tantalizes with notes of macerated cherries, wild rose, sandalwood, star anise and wild herbs working with such harmony you have trouble taking the first sip. The lush and round palate bursts with plush red-berried fruits that give way to savory and warm spicy notes finishing with fresh earth notes." Wine Enthusiast

"Deep and intense on the nose with red and dark berries, spicy herbs, dark chocolate and burnt orange peel. Also some wet earth. Full and complex with dusty tannins and a meaty juiciness. Long lasting and bright." James Suckling

"Part of the Scarrone vineyard was replanted in 1989, and from these younger vines comes the Vietti 2020 Barbera d'Alba Vigna Scarrone. This wine is also dense and darkly concentrated, but not to the same extent as the version made from the fruit of the old vines. Dark fruits, baked plums and sweet spices add dimension and volume to this wine." Wine Advocate

"The 2020 Barbera d'Alba Vigna Scarrone is outstanding. Rich and expansive, the 2020 is infused with the essence of dark cherry fruit, rose petals, cinnamon, leather and mocha take centre stage. All the elements come together so effortlessly. On the finish, floral and spicy notes reappear. This is such a noble and polished Barbera." Vinous

The grapes for Testamatta are selected and sourced from the winery's 6 best vineyards: Vincigliata, Londa, Lamole, Montefili and Siena. Each vineyard, which is divided into plots, is harvested up to 8 times to ensure that all the grapes are harvested at the perfect point of ripeness. These five vineyards (up to 80 years old) are located in different areas of Tuscany: Lamole and Montefili in the heart of Chianti Classico at 600 and 400 metres above sea level, Vincigliata near Florence at 280 metres above sea level, Londa north of Florence towards the Rufina Valley and Siena, in the south of Tuscany, at 250 metres above sea level.

Dark red in colour with black edges and a bright red hue. The nose is perfumed and smells of rose petals, which fade into ripe red to dried cherries and redcurrants. This is accompanied by flavours of earth, light tobacco, black pepper, fresh herbs and spicy cedar wood. Seemingly weightless on the palate, it is then flooded with a mixture of red to dark cherry and redcurrant flavours, complemented by an appealing spiciness. The complexity is complemented by spicy cedar wood notes, forest floor and dried herbs. Testamatta is characterised by a beautiful freshness with muscular but finely drawn tannins that lead into a powerful yet refined finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Just mid ruby. Very youthful and a little embryonic, with notes of brooding yet fresh red fruit. Really needs time to open up and, with aeration, becomes a complex amalgam of crushed, fresh cherry and cranberry with powdery tannins. Super-elegant and long and wired with ripe acidity." Jancis Robinson

"Beautiful, fresh flavours of sour cherries, orange peel and lemon shrub. Medium-bodied with firm, racy acidity and ultra-fine tannins that give the wine brightness and energy. It definitely follows the new wave of crisp, lively Tuscan Sangiovese that emphasise drinkability and transparency." James Suckling

"The 2020 Rosso Testamatta is dusty and floral in the glass, with flint, peppery herbs and tart raspberry. It is refined and pure in style, combining bright acidity and minerals with wild strawberry fruit, all carried by a seamless, silky texture. Though structured, the 2020 leaves the palate completely refreshed, while a web of fine-grained tannins frames pretty rose and sweet spice nuances. What a treasure." Vinous

"Bibi Graetz has been tinkering with his recipe for this wine for a long time, and this vintage represents a new chapter. The Testamatta 2020 is a blend of Sangiovese from old and new vines, prioritising cooler growing conditions (and even a few northern sites). In the wake of climate change and in search of elegance, Bibi is changing his approach. He also has a new vineyard near Fiesole, and the introduction of these grapes (from an airy, high altitude site) gives Testamatta its wonderful clarity, sharpness and sublime bouquet. The result is a lively, transparent and fresh wine, both in terms of acidity and aromatic intensity. This is a wine in transition and a wine to watch." Wine Advocate

"Wild roses and wild strawberries, the nose has a beautiful fragrance and expression. The fine tannins give the wine a creamy, chalky flavour with bright, juicy strawberry and raspberry leaf elements. You can also sense the savoury side, the sweet vanilla spice and dried herbs counterbalancing the fruit and high acidity. I admire the finesse here, the sharp fruit gives the energy and the chalky texture the layers. It feels well controlled, powerful yet with balance. It doesn't have as much overt weight, it's definitely more ethereal in terms of density, but the nuances of flavour are exciting and engaging, and it has a long, serene finish. A contemplative wine that leaves you wanting more and more. Produced in the new winery facilities in Fiesole. The grapes come from the six best vineyards: Vincigliata, Olmo, Londa, Lamole, Montefili and Siena, each divided into parcels and harvested up to eight times to reach the perfect ripening points." Decanter

The stunning Piane Rosso comes from 1.5 hectares of vineyards in the municipalities of Boca and Prato Sesia. These are old, rediscovered vineyards between 50 and 100 years old, whose plants were cultivated using the historic "Maggiorina system". Vineyards that can only be cultivated by hand. The exposed location on a hill ensures constant aeration, the soils are made of porphyry gravel of volcanic origin and are poor in organic matter and without lime.

The often unrecognised indigenous Croatina grape achieves high quality in Boca and virtually challenges the extremely strict selection of grapes from the best old vineyards (up to 100 years old) on Montalbano, Traversagna and Santuario. The tannin-rich variety is then tamed for two years in small and large wooden barrels. The result is impressive: the wine is intense, concentrated and shows notes of dark berries, cherries, smoke and ripe fruit. On the palate, dense substance is combined with a terrifictexture and a velvety finish. Winemaker Christoph Künzli sees this red as his clear contribution to the reinterpretation and refinement of the traditional variety in Boca, which is why this wine also bears the name of the winery. Very deep and magical - and extremely successful! SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep purple red with a smudged rim. Dark fruit that reminds me of a hedgerow - elderberry and blackberry, but also a dark spicy flavour. Strong, firm tannin structure, all in balance with the fruit. Powerful, youthful, long." Jancis Robinson

"With a bright purple colour, and hearty aromas of myrtle, red plum and black cherry. There is excellent persistence and bright, juicy fruit with lively acidity. Tannins are medium in weight and there is a wild, slightly savoury character to the wine. Produced from some of the oldest vines on the property, this is a highly distinctive red with subtle spice." Decanter

"The 2020 Piane is packed with black fruit, leather, tobacco, spice, menthol, liquorice and mocha. This heady, unctuous wine is resolutely turned up. It's a style that works very well. There's not much subtlety, but the 2020 is compelling. It's a little rustic, but still very appealing." Vinous

When you hear the story of the effort that went into the Colonia vineyard, you have to wonder if the fine people of Fèlsina are absolutely crazy. It took them two years to remove the imposing rock that had forced previous generations of the Poggiali family to practically abandon this noble location. But it is thanks to the ambitious Giovanni Poggiali that this spectacular vineyard (Vigneto Colonia) has become what it is today. It has reddish-brown soils, is rich in magnesium and iron and is therefore very different from all other Fèlsina vineyards.

Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colonia is a wine of enormous beauty and depth. Dark ruby in the glass, it smells expressively mineral and pure, with aromas of dark cherry and blackcurrant. Mineral and graphite flavours and the simply terrific focus on the Sangiovese grape make it an incomparable masterpiece. On the palate, it is extremely balanced and elegant with perfectly integrated wood - it is immediately clear that this is another top wine from the estate that is more than a match for Fontalloro. Those who are able to taste it will be lucky, as there are only 3,000 bottles per vintage. SUPERIORE.DE

"Mid ruby with the beginning of orange tinges. Rusty nail, sweet raspberry and just a suggestion of oak. Supple, elegant raspberry fruit with a pinch of oak on the palate and bags of earthy-tasting, fine tannins. Very long and precise and gaining in depth on the finish." Jancis Robinson

"Floral aromas, on the palate the wine shows juicy red fruit with fresh zesty acidity. The tannins are balanced giving structure and there's an understated note of oak. Elegant." Decanter

"Intense nose of wild blueberries, dried cherries, mint, roasted espresso and toffee. It’s medium-to full-bodied with a firm tannin frame. Structured and polished. Dense, toasty and compact for now." James Suckling

"The 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colonia is a bit marked by oak today, but behind that lies a wine of striking purity, depth and freshness. Dark red-fleshed fruit, crushed rocks, white pepper, spice and blood orange are some of the notes that meld together. There's a beautiful, layered wine waiting to emerge here." Vinous

Intense, bright colour, very clear scent of ripe cherries, a bit of plums, cloves and white pepper in the background. Grandiose fruit on the palate, much grippy tannin, long. An exciting, still quite young wine with enormous potential for many, many years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, sparkling ruby red. Concentrated and multi-layered nose of warm, ripe forest berries, blackcurrant, black elderberries, underlaid with fine sandalwood. Powerful with much tension on the palate, builds up in many layers, fruit, spice, densely woven and juicy tannin, ends with firm pressure, can still mature, is now already an experience." Falstaff

"Fully saturated red. Deep, rich aromas of balsamic cocoa, blackberry jam and aromatic herbs. Sweet and creamy in the mouth, with the depth and intensity of fresh dark fruit and balsamic flavors to support its oakiness. Rich and savory, this finishes with excellent energy and outstanding grip and length. The Capitel Monte Olmi always showcases a stronger balsamic note than Tedeschi’s entry level Amarone. " Ian d’Agata (vinous.com)

"Intriguing and aromatic on the nose, with lovely sage and incense character, here's a sleek, full-bodied red that reins in its power to a tightly-knit core of raspberry puree, Earl Grey tea leaf and rich, loamy earth flavors that linger on the long and fragrant finish." Wine Spectator

"If you like big Amarones, this one is big with a capital B. The most robust and powerful of the bunch, the 2011 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva Capitel Monte Olmi is also sophisticated and integrated, despite its huge alcohol content at 17%. I knew the alcohol was high, but I would have never guessed it was that high, and that speaks to the relative balance achieved here. It is sweet, robust and richly layered and textured in the mouth. This is a huge wine that will make you very happy, very fast. The blend is 30% Corvina, 30% Corvinone, 30% Rondinella and a 10% mix of Oseleta, Negrara, Dindarella, Croatina and Forselina, which comes from the Monte Olmi vineyard in the Pedemonte hills. The grapes are dried for a lengthy four months. This is the estate's flagship label, and it became a Riserva starting with the 2009 vintage." Wine Advocate

"Very ripe morello cherries, dark plums, cigar box, kirsch and stemmy undertones, but also orange rind and plenty of floral elements. Full body, powerful and grainy tannins and a dense yet driven finish. Extremely pure fruit. This is always reserved and beautiful." James Suckling

Solea is a white wine that is not only unique in Piedmont. Chardonnay and Nebbiolo (vinified white) - from the hand of Luca Roagna, this is an elegant and independent answer to the great white wines of Burgundy. Herbal bouquet with a smoky note, paired with fine citrus, pear and apple notes. Before you forget to take your nose out of the glass, indulge in the palate-filling aromas: Yellow fruits, plus a delicate nutty almond note and delicate creamy tones of the truly refined use of wood make this great white dance on the palate, swinging and carrying it into a terrificfinish. Impatient people enjoy immediately, wise connoisseurs put a few bottles in a safe place for a few years. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2020 Solea is Roagna's unique blend of Chardonnay and Nebbiolo vinified off the skins, as a white wine. Sweet floral notes give the bouquet lovely breadth. Soft and caressing, the Solea is super-expressive today. It's an intriguing Piedmontese dry white with pretty aromatics, lovely orchard fruit character and fine balance, with a distinct kick of Nebbiolo structure that frames the finish. I know of no other wine like it. I would prefer to drink this over the next few years. It strikes me as best suited to starters and lighter fare. " Vinous

The extremely complex Barbera d'Asti La Crena comes from vines up to 90 years old in the heart of the Nizza Monferrato region and smells of ripe red fruits, hay and pastries. The full-bodied, warm taste lingers long with plenty of dark fruit, well-proportioned acidity and fine cocoa tones. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Vietti 2018 Barbera d'Asti La Crena sees its fruit sourced from very old vines with some of the plants approaching the 100-year-old mark. This is a rich and darkly concentrated wine with a lovely bouquet that is lifted and bright. The wine reveals dark cherry fruit, raw blackberry and plum. That opulent, old-vine fruit drowns out much of the acidic sharpness of the grape." Wine Advocate

"The 2018 Barbera d'Asti La Crena is a powerful, tightly wound wine. Readers should be in no rush here. In 2019, La Crena is a bit reticent and less opulent than it can be, but then again, this is a wine that only blossoms with a few years in bottle. Inky dark fruit, gravel, smoke, crushed rocks, spice and lavender open with air, but only reluctantly. The 2018 will be a jewel for those who can wait." Vinous

The grapes for Testamatta are selected and sourced from the winery's 6 best vineyards: Vincigliata, Londa, Lamole, Montefili and Siena. Each vineyard, which is divided into plots, is harvested up to 8 times to ensure that all the grapes are harvested at the perfect point of ripeness. These five vineyards (up to 80 years old) are located in different areas of Tuscany: Lamole and Montefili in the heart of Chianti Classico at 600 and 400 metres above sea level, Vincigliata near Florence at 280 metres above sea level, Londa north of Florence towards the Rufina Valley and Siena, in the south of Tuscany, at 250 metres above sea level.

Dark red in colour with black edges and a bright red hue. The nose is perfumed and smells of rose petals, which fade into ripe red to dried cherries and redcurrants. This is accompanied by flavours of earth, light tobacco, black pepper, fresh herbs and spicy cedar wood. Seemingly weightless on the palate, it is then flooded with a mixture of red to dark cherry and redcurrant flavours, complemented by an appealing spiciness. The complexity is complemented by spicy cedar wood notes, forest floor and dried herbs. Testamatta is characterised by a beautiful freshness with muscular but finely drawn tannins that lead into a powerful yet refined finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"For the wines of Bibi Graetz, 2021 is one of the most convincing vintages to date. The Testamatta is once again a very independent, single-varietal Sangiovese with a light, delicate colour. Deep, very fragrant and seductive, the characterful bouquet then develops in a very clear manner. Juicy and transparent on the palate, long and profoundly multi-faceted, very harmonious and polished, it has a wiry, energetic acidity that gives it length and complexity. Its filigree structure is rich in finesse and expansive, slightly brittle, with a lot of Sangiovese character." Weinwisser

"Bright ruby red colour with a sparkling core. Youthful and fresh on the nose, floral, violets and fresh cherries, light pepper spice and a vegetal touch. Juicy on the palate, with present acidity, plus clear fruit in the centre and a juicy finish." Falstaff

"Brilliant and only medium ruby red in colour. Restrained nose of red fruits with exotic spice notes and a hint of soya. Very fine, still very closed and very fresh. Fairly firm tannins, which are still a little bitter at the moment, but will undoubtedly develop with further ageing. Cranberries on the finish and very elegant, although still tannic at the moment." Jancis Robinson

"The 2021 Testamatta blossoms with an array of wild strawberry, rose petal and dusty sage, yet is very understated and refined. It is silky to the core, with an elegant wave of ripe red and blue fruits flowing over a stream of fresh acidity. The wine finishes with a palpable mineral note and a crisp concentration of wild berries, while a hint of liquorice fades amidst a gentle tannin. The ongoing pursuit of purity at Bibi Graetz is on full display here." Vinous

"A pure, resonant red, with strawberry, cherry, rose, wild thyme, black pepper and mineral aromas and flavors. Though taut and linear now, this offers a center of ripe fruit, terrific balance and a long aftertaste of fruit, herb and mineral notes." Wine Spectator

"The nose starts light and sweet with aromas of vanilla and cedar before becoming richer with notes of cherries and candied oranges. On the palate, an undertone of fresh earth blossoms under a starry sky of cherries and strawberries. Silky tannins invite you to linger now, while lively acidity suggests you should come back for more fun in a few years." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2021 Testamatta is a Sangiovese that comes from different vineyards with different cool microclimates. The ideal is to emphasise the transparency and fragility of the variety. The fruit from the Olmo vineyard plays a major role and "gives this wine a strong character", says Bibi. Testamatta offers fresh aromas of violets, roses, forest green and candied orange peel. Testamatta shows an earthy note that gives the wine a slightly more accessible personality. The tannins are easy to handle and oak ageing is kept to an elegant minimum. The vinification is as natural as possible. The beautiful results are classic and radiant." Wine Advocate

"Beautifully fragrant on the nose, delicately perfumed and inviting with subtle wildflower scents, red and black berries and sweet spices. Chalky and powdery tannins support the super bright acidity that gives this wine such a sharp, exciting and vibrant expression. The tannins are very fine but have a savoury note that maintains interest and allows the acidity and bright fruit flavours to shine through. Beautifully delineated and expressed, elegant, refined, utterly beguiling yet with layers of flavour and intensity and such a long finish. It is extremely drinkable, and that is quite an achievement at this young stage. Well crafted, balanced and pleasant with a hint of heat and spice on the finish. Really wonderful and totally charming." Decanter

"Fabulous aromas of strawberries, orange zest and orange blossom. So pure on the nose. Very perfumed. Medium-bodied with intense, linear tannins that have an ultra-fine texture. It is fresh and savoury, bright and concentrated. Mineral and crisp. The pH is 3.4, emphasising the strength of the acidity. Crisp. Salty. So delicious now, but it will age incredibly well." James Suckling

Sandro Chia had the right nose when he bought the very high vineyard that his neighbours actually advised him against. Named after this single vineyard, the famous artist and his son Filippo vinify a wine that is somewhat denser than the normal Annata. The full bouquet has lively notes of dark red cherries, spices, plums and leather. Filo di Seta is racy and lush, yet has a clearly recognisable structure and impresses with its impressive balance. Sweet floral and spicy notes add exciting nuances on the expressive finish. A bold and immensely viral Brunello and a masterpiece every year! SUPERIORE.DE

"Pleasing nose of wild berries and spices, very classic; polished texture with accentuated long-lasting acidity, elegant fruity finish, also floral aromas. Convinces with its fullness and elegance." Vinum

"Distinctly herbal nose, fresh, slightly cesty, wild herbs, meadow sage, cedar; firm, compact-polished style, polished, present tannins, juicy length." Meiningers Sommelier

"Filippo Chia explains that Romitorio’s Filo di Seta bottling is crafted from two harvesting periods. The first, in early September, is for crispness and a modest 13% alcohol. The remaining grapes are picked two to three weeks later to bring complexity and greater structure. Neither superior nor inferior to the estate bottling in 2017, it does express its distinct personality: Filo di Seta is richer and showier, with a chocolatey texture, yet its tannins are also tighter. Aromas of rosemary and cocoa lead to spicy wild dark berries and iron on the palate. Despite plenty of stuffing, this remains agile." Decanter

"The remarkably fresh 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Filo di Seta opens slowly, blossoming in the glass to offer a captivating mix of dusty rose, spicy citrus, black cherry and smoky crushed stone. This is cool-toned yet powerful in feel, fleshing out across the palate with an elegant display of mineral-tinged tart berries under an air of sweet florals, as fine tannins settle in. It turns quite savory and slightly salty through the finale, tapering off with unprecedented length, along with a staining of primary concentration offset by residual acids that keep the mouth watering. Mixing the most delicate and vivid fruit with the body of a well-muscled dancer, this leaves me very impressed. The 2017 Filo di Seta is one of the top wines of this difficult vintage." Vinous

"This is a very interesting wine that tests a cool growing site in a hot vintage. The Castello Romitorio 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Filo di Seta comes from a high-altitude vineyard with dark soils and pockets of slate and shale. It is isolated in the mountains and surrounded by thick forests and Mediterranean shrub oak. That combination of unique elements has shaped a very articulate and attuned expression that boasts vibrant fruit, smoke, spice and wet stone. The finish is sharp and especially focused with age-worthy tannins and bright acidity." Wine Advocate

"From the north-west area of Montalcino an extra-ordinary Brunello also in this vintage, the result of great selection in the vineyard. Black currant, touches di gardenia, then a nice balsamic shade of eucalyptus. The mouthfeel has salty, crispy tannins and a fruity, balsamic finish." Luca Gardini

The grapes for Istine's cult Riserva come exclusively from the estate's own vineyards Istine (Radda), Casanova dell'Aia (Radda) and Cavarchione (Gaiole). Only 4,000 bottles of this breathtaking wine, which matures for 12 months in large Slavonian oak barrels, are bottled each year.

Rich, bright ruby red with a sparkling centre. The bouquet is complex with aristocratic restraint. Compact and freshly fruity nose of rich cherries and ripe raspberries, with amarena cherries and notes of tobacco in the background. Medium-bodied on the palate, but with infinite, captivating depth that awaits discovery. Spreads out beautifully in the body, appears downright juicy and fruit-emphasised and continues to open up towards its terrific finalwith crunchy cherries and a refined saline vein. Purists will love its linear and unmistakable Sangiovese character. SUPERIORE.DE

"Brilliant carmine red colour. Powerful cherry nose with a peppery tingle. Full flavour of sweet red fruit and tangy cherry, with a layer of sandy tannins. Very long, lively and animating." Jancis Robinson

"From the Istine and Casanova dell'Aia vineyards, a selection of the best Sangiovese grapes for this flagship wine of the Fronti family. Notes of blackcurrant on the nose, then nutmeg and fresh pepper leaf. Juicy, salty tannins on the palate, with a fruity, balsamic finish and flavourful tension." Luca Gardini

"This Riserva is made from part of the three selected vineyards of Istine - Cavarchione, Istine and Casanova dell'Aia - and matures for a further year in Slavonian oak barrels (30 hl). This is the largest and most structured wine in the range, but it does not lack the precision and purity typical of the estate. The subtle aromas are led by rosemary, sage and juniper, with lavender accents interwoven. The tannins are chalky, structured and still quite dry, and the finish is slightly warming. At the moment, the framework dominates, although the ripe blackcurrant fruit has enough depth to support it." Decanter

"A dense, delineated red, with a core of sweet, ripe plum, black cherry, leather, iron and tobacco flavors. Lively and solidly built, with fine balance and a long finish that echoes the earth, fruit and tobacco notes." Wine Spectator

"The Chianti Classico Riserva Levigne 2018 is dense and powerful in flavour. Black cherry, plum, new leather, spices, menthol, liquorice and mocha blend together. The Levigne is a voluminous and complex Riserva that is very well done, even if the influence of the oak is on the verge of overwhelming." Vinous

"The Istine 2018 Chianti Classico Riserva Levigne with black label is an attractive, darkly concentrated wine with a rich and lush style. This certified organic wine is made exclusively from Sangiovese and is aged for 24 months in large oak barrels, with the fruit coming from three special cru sites with different soil profiles. The wine begins very elegantly, a little restrained at first, then gently relaxes and envelops the entire palate." Wine Advocate

"Undergrowth, new leather and ripe berries are just some of the flavours you'll find in this fantastic Sangiovese. Velvety, enveloping and delicious, the full-bodied palate serves up fleshy black cherry, baked plum, liquorice and crushed mint, framed by tightly knit, refined tannins." Wine Enthusiast

The extremely successful "Binomio" joint venture between Fattoria La Valentina and Azienda Agricola Inama is entering a new round. On the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the La Valentina winery, a new wine was born, which is only produced in the best vintages and in limited small editions.

2017 was a very hot year and in some areas of the Binomio vineyard, the Montepulciano grapes were extremely concentrated. This gave rise to the idea of making a top selection of the grapes for the first time, because under the good shade of the foliage, they showed a particular flawlessness of flavours and promised an even more concise interpretation of the essence of Binomio. With patience and care, this small and exceptional portion of the fascinating grapes was then selected and the foundation stone was laid for the small "Binomio Collezione" series, which is only produced in the best years. With the first vintage 2017, 3,000 bottles are now available in the hand-picked specialised trade.

Deep, shimmering ruby red colour. Intense bouquet with heavy aromas of redcurrants and sour cherries, accompanied by hints of roasted almonds, gentian violets and a delicate spiciness. On the palate, the wine reveals all its complexity and opulence, framed by tightly woven, well-integrated tannins in a perfect balance between warmth and softness. A deep wine that only reveals itself with some aeration and is proof of the outstanding characteristics of the grape variety and terroir. SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep, dark ruby red with an opaque centre. On the nose, preserved cherry, ripe plum, dark chocolate, a hint of nougat, grated wild berries, delicate sealing wax. Very dense on the palate with a creamy texture, almost oily, currently still with a lot of tannin, becomes slightly broad-meshed in the final and remains drying." Falstaff

"Dark and brooding, the 2017 Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Binomio Collezione opens with hints of cedar and sweet spices complementing the crushed plums. It flows across the palate with silky textures and masses of ripe red and blue fruits, neatly balanced by a hint of citrus towards the end. Violet candy, lavender and mint can be found as the 2017 finishes powerful and fresh." Vinous

"Floral black fruits on the nose, with notes of black liquorice and pressed flowers. Full-bodied, round and silky on the palate, firm but not chewy, with liquorice fruit and grainy, fruity tannins. Balanced and long. Accessible now, but made to last. Best from 2025 onwards." James Suckling

Currá is an archaic long-distance runner and presents itself very aristocratic when young with increasing bottle maturity or also good aeration. Then it reveals dark berries and a fine chocolate note in the bouquet. In its style, it is edgy at first, but then at no point denies its greatness and harmony. Tobacco, plums, smoke and tobacco: with every glass, this exceptional wine reveals new facets and a firework of impressions. This is Nebbiolo from 65-year-old vines at the highest level! SUPERIORE.DE

"With defining character and hearty bite, compact and pithy at every stage, fleshy all around with velvety tannins and animating length." Weinwisser

"Mid to deep developing ruby with narrow orange rim. Firm nose of ripe fruit spiked with sweet baking spices. Compact sour-cherry fruit palate with bags of crunchy tannins. Succulent and with tannic bite on the finish. Quite gorgeous." Jancis Robinson

"The 2016 Barbaresco Currà is a dense, explosive wine endowed with huge mid-palate density and potent tannins to match. Wild cherry, tobacco, cinnamon, dried rose petal and spice emerge with a bit of coaxing. The 2016 is a powerful wine." Vinous

"A beefy style, this red buries its cherry, iron and menthol flavors in a matrix of thick tannins. The vivid acidity works in tandem, yet in the end, there's an equilibrium of all the elements, with the fruit reemerging." Wine Spectator

"Showing darker and slightly more saturated fruit, the Sottimano 2016 Barbaresco Currá is a more robust and amply endowed wine compared to the other single-vineyard expressions in this portfolio. Drawing its fruit from the village of Neive, the Currá offers ripe berry and redcurrant with softer tones of spice and tilled earth. The wine's concentration and richness are an absolute pleasure, and you could direct this bottle to a heavier roasted meat dish when the time is right. Fruit is drawn from a 1.5-hectare plot in Neive." Wine Advocate

This is a beautiful creation from a vintage that has presented some challenges to winemakers elsewhere in Italy and here in Piedmont. Barbaresco Bernadot with Treiso fruit shows a graceful, mid-weight approach to the 2014 vintage with red and purple fruits that are crisp and fresh. The bouquet is a sounding board for cassis, sour cherry, camphor ash, crushed stone and powdered licorice. Bernadot shows a firm texture and a lingering, silky intensity, while being refreshingly natural and weightless; an utterly captivating wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"A mix of earth, underbrush, leather, juniper and tar aromas continue on the palate in this savory Nebbiolo. Firmly structured, finishing long and dry, with a tobacco note." Wine Spectator

"Elegant, bright ruby red. Inviting, equally elegant, of roses and pomegranate, a hint of rubber. Pleasant palate with juicy tannin, salty and stimulating, wraps the mouth in a velvety dress and finishes long with fresh cherry fruit." Falstaff

"The 2014 Barbaresco Bernadot is a more structured and opulent wine with thick lines and a dark core of black fruit. Thanks to vineyards in Treiso, the wine delivers extra power and density with deep layers of blackberry, spice and crushed river stone. This Barbaresco boasts a pretty layering effect that peels back to show delicate intensity and finesse." Wine Advocate

"The 2014 Barbaresco Bernardot has shut down since I last tasted it about nine months ago. The breadth that is typical of this Treiso site comes through, but the 2014 is quite reluctant today. Hints of smoke, licorice, underbrush and a host of balsamic notes infuse the resonant finish." Vinous

Black cherry red with a violet rim. On the nose, notes of spices such as ginger, cinnamon, dried coriander and vanilla bean, rounded off with fruit aromas of pomegranate, cherry and floral nuances such as geranium, lavender and rose. Fresh rose sugar and graphite on the palate; plus raspberry, cherry, fresh plum and cranberries. Long in the finish with a fine cassis note. SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful, sparkling ruby violet. Opens with cool spicy notes, some geranium leaf, plus fresh plums. On the palate clear and present fruit, grippy tannin coated by beautiful melting, in the finish full of blackberry and spicy undergrowth." Falstaff

"This wine is, frankly, delicious. The fruit has a brilliant, violet-scented, dark ripeness, but it is infused with a ruby glow. Blueberries and raspberries. Lavender and pepper. The tannins are so fine it feels like they were applied with a sable hair brush, yet they are not delicate - they engrave the fruit with purpose and precision. Delicious freshness in the mouth. Incredibly fragrant on the finish. This wine really floats." Jancis Robinson

"Aromas of cherries and flowers with some orange peel. Also graphite, slate and white pepper. Medium bodied with firm and silky tannins laced with bright acidity. Bright and lively." James Suckling

"The 2018 Tinata is super-expressive right out of the gate. Soaring aromatics meld into a core of dark red/blue fruit, with hints of tobacco, dried herbs, licorice and spice that develop later. A wine of understated depth, the Tinata is impressive in this tasting." Vinous

Barbaresco Starderi from the municipality of Neive is almost austere with its aroma of pink pepper and cocoa, which, combined with the subtle wood notes, gives a delicious overall aroma; powerful and rich on the palate with the still superficial but very noble tannin. SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep and complex, somewhat smoky, clearly mushroomy and a little meaty aroma with notes of predominantly red berries, rose petals, hints of cloves and spicy nuances. Ripe, firm, juicy fruit, partly seeming preserved, a little nutty and cocoa-spicy wood notes, present, crumbly tannin, persistent, multilayered, much power, good depth, in the background some liquorice, peppery and dried-floral nuances, noticeable extract sweetness, in the background also salt, very good, juicy and spicy, firm finish. Becomes juicier and more complex over days." Wein-Plus

"Roses, dried fruit, hazelnuts and some spices on the nose. Full-bodied with very creamy tannins that are polished and beautiful. This is very structured and needs time to soften, but beautiful and solid." James Suckling

"Another especially elegant expression from La Spinetta, the 2018 Barbaresco Starderi Vürsù demonstrates how well this winery worked in this slightly cooler growing season. All the wines across this portfolio appear bright and more ethereal, representing a subtle pivot for proprietor Giorgio Rivetti and his crew. Dried cassis, limestone and crushed flowers emerge from the bouquet, and the wine imparts a lasting and highly polished mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

"The 2018 Barbaresco Vigneto Starderi is a powerful, structured wine. Readers will have to be patient with the 2018, as it is a mere infant. Dried cherry, mint, spice, rose petal, kirsch and sweet red cherry fill out the layers nicely as the Starderi shows off its characteristic volume. Give this a few years to soften." Vinous

"This is one of the 50 wines that have changed Italian wine culture." Gambero Rosso

Siepi 2020 impresses even at a young age with its volume, fruit and richness. It is made from equal parts Merlot and Sangiovese and both grapes bring their best qualities to the blend. The Sangiovese grape shows a distinct personality with localised notes of small berries and spices and also offers a wonderfully fresh acidity. Merlot plays a strong role in the background, adding softness, fullness and richness. Siepi is an intense, powerful wine that has a terrificarc of tension, ranging from its highly attractive extract sweetness to polished tannins in a fresh, savoury finish with an interesting salty note. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Siepi 2020 consists of half Sangiovese and half Merlot. The former is matured in large wooden barrels, the latter in 70% new barriques. On the nose, the Siepi has a very finely honed and clear Sangiovese fruit, with a purist face and excellent depth. In the mouth, too, the Merlot appears to have little aromatic presence. Rather slender and full of finesse on the tongue, the Siepi is clearly defined and very elegantly differentiated." Weinwisser

"Black cherry and blackberry, wrapped in a coat of toasted, resinous oak. Cedar and iron notes give the wine depth on the long finish. It opened up after an hour in the glass and showed its polish, but still needs time to absorb the oak." Wine Spectator

"Dark ruby colour with a drop of violet. On the nose, rich cherry fruit, blackberries, fine chocolate and leather, delicately characterised, exciting. Expressive and radiant on the palate, with compact, dark berry fruit and polished, creamy tannins, without denying its Tuscan roots, grippy and powerful on the finish." Falstaff

"Transparent carmine red colour with a pale rim. Penetrating, ripe aroma, probably due to the Merlot, but without too much sweetness. The palate shows the spice and vibrancy of the Sangiovese. But these two elements already seem to be beautifully combined with a slight hint of tea. Long. Already a really beautiful expression of the fruit of the Tuscan hills. Good balance between freshness and ripeness." Jancis Robinson

"The 2020 Siepi is stylish, elegant and highly polished. Dark blue fruits, lavender, new leather, cloves and mocha blend together effortlessly. The 2020 is characterised by a precision that is incredibly inviting. Nevertheless, the 2020 is still very young and does not fully express its potential. It simply needs time to develop, but all the elements are there." Vinous

"The nose balances dense, fiery aromas of grilled meat, pepper and gunpowder with lighter, friendlier notes of cherries and wild berries. The berries take a leading role on the palate, but the spicy smokiness lingers as an assertive undertone, leading into a hot finish. Tannins have grit without being rustic, emphasizing a saliva-inducing savoriness throughout." Wine Enthusiast

"Dried herbs and sweet spices on the nose, forest notes with blackberry fruit, concentrated and expressive. On the palate, the tannins glide gently over the tongue and give the sweet strawberry, raspberry and plum fruit time to develop in the mouth, while the acidity provides a pleasant mouthfeel. This wine is very lively and vibrant - it shouts loudly for its energy. It feels extremely good, with clear definition, finesse and balance. Such a gorgeous fruit profile, the high-toned strawberry and cherry, bright and penetrating, but also round and generous with tobacco and wood nuances. The fine but present tannins are very present and give grip. All in all, an exceptionally beautiful wine. I love it. It offers immediate and youthful pleasure, but it will continue to age well." Decanter

"Graphite and pencil come through, along with violets and blackberries. Also some tar and tarmac. Full-bodied, but creamy and crisp, with an agile liveliness that lasts for minutes. Fabulous length. Drinkable now, but it will continue to mature for decades." James Suckling