VINOUS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A textbook Pian delle Vigne: a full bouquet of small red berries, brown spices, mocha and tobacco, before musky cherries and sage follow. Its cool, creamy texture introduces a dense wave of ripe red and black fruits, with salty minerals and fine-grained tannins providing grip. It will show its full beauty in a few years, but with sufficient aeration it is already a pleasure today! SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark ruby red colour, bright. Fine hints of mint, ripe cherries and cranberries on the nose, fine balsamic tones on the finish. Great juiciness on the palate, clear fruit and well-integrated acidity, opens warm-hearted and full-bodied, fine salty finish." Falstaff

"The 2019 Brunello di Montalcino opens with a dark and brooding bouquet that blends plum sauce with dark chocolate and espresso beans. It combines velvety textures with ripe red and black fruits over a core of juicy acidity, while maintaining a lifted and energetic feel. The 2019 finishes structured and long, but still relatively fresh. Orange-flavoured blackberries and savoury herbs linger. I'm very impressed with the 2019's palate performance and tannin management, but I wish the winery would go for an equally fresh presentation on the nose. Still, fans of the Pian delle Vigne style will love the energy in this wine." Vinous

"Sweet black cherries with some blackberries as well as cherry blossom on the nose and palate. Medium to full-bodied with firm tannins and a chewy finish, but it will soften and come together nicely with bottle age." James Suckling

The approx. 1.6 hectare single vineyard Loreto is situated on a slope directly next to the winery and has an ideal south-east exposure. Vigna Loreto is vinified only in the best vintages and is an even more intense interpretation of the Sangiovese grape. It has a texture that is both creamy and robust, with a depth and richness that make it very rich and exceptional. With further aeration, beautiful notes of black fruits, tobacco and spices. Aristocratic, powerful and very long. SUPERIORE.DE

"Quite deep, somewhat tarry aroma of ripe black and red berries with a hint of mushrooms, iron, tobacco, pepper and a little dried herbs. Ripe, firm, rather dark fruit, coffee-spicy wood aromas, some dark chocolate and smoke, present, ripe tannin still drying a bit, clearly salt in the background, a touch of dried herbs and tobacco, a hint of bread crust, deep and quite concentrated, still gaining expression and at the same time harmony with air, long, firm, tart finish with noble juice and cigar box. Gains strength over days and should definitely still mature." Wein-Plus

"Bright garnet red with a light rim. Opens on the nose with notes of pickled cherries and plums, behind that some spicy juniper berries and cigar box. Blooms great on the palate, lots of sweet melting, fine-meshed tannin embedded in it, ripe fruit, firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"Spicy and fragrant notes of sour cherries, currants, bay leaves, charred bark, tobacco, rosemary stems and toasted wood. It is full-bodied with firm, polished tannins. Deep and sensual dark fruits and toasted aromas. Taste it in 2024." James Suckling

"Pebble and tufa soils for this successful Brunello reading. Raspberry jam on the nose, with notes of marjoram and lemon thyme, then nuances of iris. Iodine tannins on the palate, again with floral notes." Luca Gardini

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Loreto rises from the glass with a beguiling blend of crushed ash stones merging into dried cherries and cloves. The palate is seductively soft and supple, with polished red fruits and a pleasing inner sweetness accompanied by an evolving minerality and a hint of acidic citrus. The finish is of excellent length, balancing fine tannins with a saturation of tart wild berries that lingers. This is one of the finest interpretations of Vigna Loreto I have ever tasted. Masterfully done." Vinous

"An elegant red with an attractive blend of cherry, raspberry, red floral, mineral and rosemary aromas. Juicy and lively, with refined, resonant tannins supporting the long finish. Very balanced and expressive." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Loreto has an understated, dry and elegant personality with a long, silky texture that gently caresses the palate. The essence of Sangiovese with its wild side, dried raspberries, blue flowers and crushed stones, comes through with precise precision. This wine is a bull's eye in a vintage that has not always been easy to handle." Wine Advocate

"This wine is relatively dark, though translucent now, and the scents are sweet, warm, open and inviting, built around a core of ripe plum. The palate is deep and secondary, meaning the plum is beginning to morph into the softer but less precise fruits of ripeness; there are also prominent but well-rounded tannins, while the acidity is livelier and more vital than one might expect from the flavours. An excellent Brunello for mid-range ripeness." Decanter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Deep dark ruby-purple colour. On the nose, cassis, blackcurrants and a strong herbal spice with a good dose of pipe tobacco, tar and crushed gravel. On the palate, dark berries, chocolate and a cornucopia of herbs define the full-bodied palate. This juicy wine monument has precisely integrated tannins, an enormous silkiness and an almost endless finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, intense colour. Rich, sweet and chocolaty, the Oreno smells of rum pot and shows a beautiful fullness, yet the wood shines through a little, as the core flavour is still underdeveloped. Sweet, broad and compact, it appears in the mouth with a lot of substance and core, with an equally concentrated centre. The powerful tannins are arranged in a straightforward manner, accompanied by a fine woody shimmer and good texture." Weinwisser

"A juicy red characterised by blueberries, boysenberries, cassis, wild herbs and oak spices. It shows a range of dusty tannins that have a firm grip on the compact finish, but it has freshness, plenty of fruit and persistence." Wine Spectator

"Fruity, floral aromas of dried cherries, raspberries and violets on the nose segue into spicy notes of pencil shavings and hot tar, before more mixed berries overlay spicy, earthy notes on the palate, with a hint of orange pith providing astringency on the long, umami-rich finish." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2021 Oreno richly concentrated aromas to match. You get black fruit, toasted barbecue spice, mahogany and smoke. There are pronounced herbal notes with grilled sage and rosemary. This wine definitely embraces a full-bodied, old-school style that is heavily influenced by Bordeaux." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 Oreno is great. In fact, the 2021 is one of the best Orenos I can remember tasting. Aromatic, rich and deep, with tonnes of textural resonance, the 2021 has so much to offer. Scents of tobacco, espresso, spice, new leather and spice open up first, leading to waves of dark, resonant fruit that build over time. Impressive. This is a particularly heady, flamboyant Tuscan red wine. A style that works very well in 2021." Vinous

"Dark blackberry fruit and intense floral and spicy aromas, liquorice and olives with nuances of blueberries and roses. The tannins are grippy but give direction rather than being heavy or broad. On the palate, it remains quite straightforward, persistently in line from start to finish. I love the juiciness, the strawberry juice with herbal accents and clean, ferruginous minerality that comes across slightly tangy and savoury on the finish, lingering with a zesty olive note." Decanter

"Bright ruby violet colour. Opens with an elegant nose, notes of elderberries, chocolate, stewed blackberries, some liquorice. Present on the palate, with nerve, grippy but very energetic, clean tannins, full-bodied, long, juicy finish lasting many minutes." Falstaff

"Blackcurrants and black cherries with beautiful flowers on the nose. Medium-bodied with ultra-fine tannins that give the wine focus and tension. Pretty and balanced. A little shy now." James Suckling

"Unique location, south-facing vineyards in the river basin of the same name. Taut nose, blackberry, eucalyptus, pink pepper and capers, peony and balsamic finish. Dense on the palate, crisp, spicy tannins, fresh citrus flavours with a long, drinkable finish." Luca Gardini

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The grapes for Terlan's Ikonen wine come from vineyards at an altitude of 300 to 550 metres with volcanic porphyry rock. Powerful, attractively exotic bouquet with bright gooseberries, mango and pink grapefruit, backed by a captivating mineral flavour. There is also lemongrass and herbal, ethereal notes. On the palate, it is juicy and full-bodied, but not overloaded, instead deeply spicy, smoky, with a mineral-salty structure, followed by green-herbal notes in the focussed, mineral final. Every year, Quarz is one of the best Italian Sauvignon Blancs in its full splendour. As always, Cantina Terlano shows a skilful winemaker's hand in guiding the natural flavours of the grape, but also in delivering a very elegant interpretation. SUPERIORE.DE

"The name Quarz is derived from the quartz inclusions in the porphyry. A powerful, smoky bouquet with fine Sauvignon Blanc fruit, blackcurrant, elderberry and hints of herbs and minerals. In the mouth, it is initially taut and tightly woven, but then also melting with a fine texture and marvellous accompanying mineral spice." Weinwisser

"This lively, mineral white wine is long and graceful, with a hint of salinity that adds a delicious savoury note to the concentrated spectrum of nectarine, pink grapefruit granita, gooseberry, chive blossom and white pepper." Wine Spectator

"The 2022 Sauvignon Blanc Quarz is youthfully coy, opening with an airy bouquet that mixes crushed rocks with dried flowers, hints of petrol and nectarines. This is pure pleasure on the palate, soft and round, with juicy acidity and ripe citrus-tinged orchard fruits that swirl as salty mineral tones penetrate deeply. The 2022 finishes with outstanding length and tension, leaving hints of sour melon and a tart lemon rind tinge. The 2022 is intense and built for the cellar." Vinous

Rennina from the dream year 2016 is a proud parade drop - everything is in the right place here and, for the true connoisseur, a lot more besides. Deep, almost impenetrable ruby red colour. Initially a rather closed nose with mineral notes and a hint of oak sawdust. Then gravel road, mint and hints of caraway. The palate is fleshy, powerful, with concentrated sour cherry fruit and a present but never intrusive tannin. Despite a certain opulence, it is a balanced wine that - away from the mainstream - is guaranteed to find its friends who will give it the necessary understanding, plenty of experience and patience. SUPERIORE.DE

"Raspberry, hot stone and dark chocolate flavours, precisely applied wood; the attack is powerful yet round, with plenty of polished tannins and an opulent finish. Combines richness and elegance." Vinum

"Rich, sparkling ruby colour with a fine garnet rim. Compact nose with notes of ripe raspberry and plum, followed by cold smoke and leather. Juicy, ripe fruit on the palate, lots of grippy tannins, with a sweet melting flavour and a firm final." Falstaff

"The two Cru Brunello from Gaja show the generous warmth and salty breeze of the Tavernelle zone in the central south-west of Montalcino. Rennina, assembled from three parcels around the church after which the winery is named, is the more extroverted of the two. It is still very young in its structure and fruit and has a lively aroma of garden herbs, juniper, liquorice and summer berries. The powerful, rich fruit is framed by polished but lush tannins. This full-bodied, impetuous Rennina will need some time to tame itself." Decanter

"Aromas of espresso, clove and liquorice mingle with balsamic notes of camphor. Elegantly structured, the focused, linear palate offers dried cherry, blood orange and star anise, framed by firm, tightly knit tannins that grip the finish." Wine Enthusiast

"A hint of mint adorns the cherry, plum and tar flavours of this densely packed red wine, which feels balanced overall despite the powerful tannins, with a lingering, sanguine and ferrous finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Rennina is captivating as balsam herbs, wilted violets, and stone dust smolder up, slowly giving way to a core of crushed blackberry. This is pure class, silky and elegant yet racy. Brisk acidity and masses of mineral-tinged dark red fruits saturate the palate, which is lifted by a orange hint toward the close as salty minerals penetrate. Like liquid stone, the 2016 remains youthfully structured, with a wall of fine tannins that grips the senses and a coating of primary concentration that promises balance for a long life. This is an absolutely stunning vintage for Rennina." Vinous

"The Pieve Santa Restituta 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Rennina offers intensity and wonderfully concentrated fruit. The bouquet reveals layers of wild cherry, rose, blue flowers and candied orange peel. However, if you are expecting a more subdued Rennina, you will be disappointed with this classic 2016 vintage. The wine is bursting with energy and vitality, with a lifted and particularly brilliant palette of flavours. You can also detect hints of fresh peppercorns or coriander seeds, which add a touch of exoticism to the wine." Wine Advocate

"The flavours of blackberries, walnuts and chocolate are reminiscent of shaved black truffles. It is full-bodied and complex with chewy but soft tannins and a long, flavourful finish. Undertones of smoke, mahogany and damp earth. It needs three or four years to mellow and develop." James Suckling

San Leonardo is the flagship of the eponymous winery and one of the best red wines of Trentino every year. Opulent bouquet with nuances of dark fruits such as blackberry and sour cherry. Delicate spicy, leather and tobacco notes give it a terrific complexity, which is then extended on the palate by a harmonious play of dark berries, plums, the whole then flanked by clearly contoured tannin. A masterful red with a strong personality that will rise to its true greatness after a few more years of bottle ageing and live up to its reputation. SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful, bright ruby with a slight violet shimmer. Opens with fine spicy notes of bay leaf and white pepper, then lots of dark currant. Emphasises spicy notes on the palate as well, opens with fine-meshed tannin, flows quietly along, long and juicy." Falstaff

"A very elegant, classic Bordeaux blend in the Italian context, but this is actually a special wine in any context, thanks to its subtlety and aromatic complexity. Blackcurrant, black–cherry and mint notes with just a hint of red bell pepper. Finely etched, medium–bodied palate with crisp tannins and lively acidity. The elegant tannins carry the long, cool finish." James Suckling

"Another year in bottle has added unexpected depths and dimension to the 2016 San Leonardo. It wafts up with an alluring bouquet of smoky black currant and plum skins, complicated by savory herbs, hints of white pepper and fresh tobacco. It's hard chiseled edges have formed into smooth contours now, velvety yet youthfully dense, washing mineral encased dark red and black berries across a core of brisk acidity as a combination of saline–minerals and grippy tannins add tension toward the close. This finishes incredibly long yet also structured, begging for time in the cellar, as hints of licorice and earth tones grumble under an air of inner violet florals. The potential within the 2016 San Leonardo is off the charts, yet it will require a good amount of time to come fully into focus. Bury your bottles deep." Vinous

"A wine to drink at least 10 years from now, the 2016 San Leonardo is positioned to be enjoyed in the far long term. Like its Tuscan cousin from Bolgheri, Sassicaia, San Leonardo from the mountainous north of Italy is always a wine that starts off quietly but that grows in intensity and complexity as it completes its bottle evolution. This elegant vintage reveals beautiful tones of dark berry fruit, spice and freshly milled white pepper. The wine is exceptionally balanced, fresh and long." Wine Advocate

Deep dark, almost impenetrable red. In the nose a whole range of mature forest berries, finely underlined by nuances of tobacco, leather and lavender. Also on the palate with a lot of fruit, powerful, but still silky and elegant. SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful, sparkling ruby violet. Clear and present nose, of elderberries, plums and dried kitchen herbs. In the front much rich fruit, opens with velvety, dense tannin, smooth and very long, like from a casting, builds up in the back area rich, firm pressure, in the aftertaste dark chocolate, somewhat alcoholic." Falstaff

"This is an absolutely gorgeous expression, very full and generous. The 2016 Syrah Per Sempre spent a little less time in oak compared to other vintages, just 16 months, and the results are excellent. This area's Syrah always does best in hot years, such as 2009 and 2007, and this vintage is reminiscent of the latter. There is lovely black fruit, surrounded by milled black pepper and hints of charcuterie. The key to hot-vintage Syrah is to keep the extraction low: This wine saw a 20-day maceration period, but still, the Syrah Per Sempre is thick and highly concentrated, and the 15% alcohol content is unmistakable. This would be a perfect accompaniment to a filet mignon and potatoes au gratin. This Syrah is a true standout." Wine Advocate

"Tua Rita's 2016 Syrah Per Sempre is fabulous. Crème de cassis, lavender, licorice, plum and blueberry jam are all beautifully delineated. Savory, powerful and also structured, the 2016 has plenty of intensity, but it also is not as dense or obvious as has been the case in the recent past. Readers should be prepared to cellar the 2016 for at least a few years." Antonio Galloni

"This is very exotic and seductive with dark berries, incense, citronelle and hints of sandalwood. Full-bodied, chewy and intense with a powerful palate and a long finish. Very fresh and muscular syrah. Needs three or four years to come around." James Suckling

With the Brunello Bassolino di Sopra, Pian Dell'Orino has undoubtedly succeeded in creating one of the most exciting Brunellos of the 2012 vintage. Warm, very seductive aromas of black cherries, flowers, tobacco, minerals and undergrowth emerge from the bright ruby red. The interplay between the rich fruit and the classic structure is ingenious. The taste captivates with its intensity, luxurious and mysterious. SUPERIORE.DE

"A translucent ruby with purple hues in the glass, the 2012 Brunello di Montalcino Bassolino di Sopra wafts up with an incredibly pretty mix of dusty dried roses, cedar spice box, wild strawberries and incense. This is elegance personified, yet also delicate in character, with a silken wave of ripe red fruits laced with sweet herbs tones, as mildly grippy tannins slowly saturate toward the close. The 2012 Bassolino di Sopra is still structured through the finale, leaving a primary concentration that creates youthful poise, as wild berry nuances slowly fade. It’s amazing, but this still needs time and has the balance to last." Vinous

"This wine immediately grabs your attention and focus thanks to the incredible purity and intensity that lifts so gracefully from the glass. The bouquet presents aromas of dried cherry, cassis, freshly tilled soil and wild rose. The wine carries itself with majesty, floating or gliding over the palate with silky smoothness. The longer you contemplate the bouquet, the more aware you become of its complexity and depth. It closes with dark and almost spicy fruit intensity." Wine Advocate

Vietti's Ravera is one of the very big stars of Piedmont in its precision and structure. Rose petals, chalk, pepper and a hint of pomegranate make this Barolo one of the most sought-after in the appellation every year. With a little ageing, the strong tannins give way to an elegant impression that does not deviate one millimetre from the coveted style of this great vineyard. A monument of Barolo, which only a few other winemakers in Piedmont besides Vietti and also Giacosa bottle with such consistency! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, brightening ruby with light rim. The nose presents itself with notes of raspberries and blackberries, then some cardamom, dark rose petal. Dense and full-bodied in the attack and course, shows lots of grippy tannin that builds up for a long time, entwined with fine sweet melting, long finish." Falstaff

"With fruit from Novello, the Vietti 2017 Barolo Ravera is immediately expressive and articulate. The message it communicates is one of elegance and finesse, and the mouthfeel is especially important to this bottle. A silky, almost glossy sheen sets up aromas of cassis, blueberry, wild cherry and crushed stone. These various elements literally glide or skate together in seamless harmony. This was a release of 7,560 bottles." Wine Advocate

"Broad and saturated with cherry, black currant and plum flavors, this red is expansive and yet well defined. The ripe fruit is offset by nervous tannins, leaving a resonant, energetic feel on the lengthy finish. Eucalyptus, iron and tobacco notes add detail." Wine Spectator

"The 2017 Barolo Ravera is a powerhouse. My impression is that the 2017 is going to develop into something truly special. It has all the energy that makes this site so distinctive, but with an extra kick of fruit density and a whole range of exotic aromatics that make for a truly drop dead gorgeous wine. Bright red/purplish fruit, rose petal, chalk and white pepper build into a finish laced with searing intensity. This is such and impressive wine." Vinous

"Dried strawberry and citrus rind, as well as subtle undertones of smoke and dried flowers. Full-bodied, yet so tight and composed with freshness and lightness, yet power, too. Long finish. This really needs time to open. Classic style." James Suckling

Deep, full red with a fine sheen. The La Morra edition from Vietti's famous Barolo family convinces with an impressive aroma of red berries, cherries, wild herbs, mint, minerals and rose petals, rounded off with a hint of blood orange. The palate is opulent, full, with fine sweetness and structure, and the multi-layered, long final is accompanied by downright aristocratic tannin. A typical Vietti cru with a lot of class. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby with a fine garnet shimmer. Exciting and complex in the nose, shows notes of cardamom, some leather, then lots of plum and raspberry. Taut and gripping tannin on the palate dominates the course, fine raspberry fruit, unfortunately a bit brittle on the final." Falstaff

"The 2017 Barolo Brunate is a powerful, brooding wine. Huge dark fruit, leather, spice, menthol and dried herbs all build in a potent Barolo that is enshrouded by tannins. The 2017 is going to need quite a bit of time in the cellar. Today, it is very much a brooding powerhouse. Dark wild cherry, licorice, tar, menthol and spice take shape in the glass, but the 2017 is clearly an infant, and an unruly one at that." Vinous

"A release of 4,981 bottles, the Vietti 2017 Barolo Brunate is beautifully rich and fleshed out, with balanced fruit weight and inner structure. The bouquet reveals tart cherry and cassis, but the Brunate also shows a more delicate side, with crushed flowers, dried violet and polished stone. The power of this cru creeps up on the palate, where you feel the tightness of its fiber and tannins. Following that delicate aromatic preface, this Barolo ultimately delivers a strong, cellar-worthy performance." Wine Advocate

"A ripe, fleshy style, offering plum, cherry, leather, menthol and iron aromas and flavors. Hints of rose and strawberry peek through as this builds to the long finish. There are formidable tannins too, yet they remain civilized and should allow this to develop nicely over time." Wine Spectator

"Beautiful, sweet fruit and perfumes on the nose with fresh flowers, such as roses. Full-bodied with fine, dusty tannins and a long, persistent finish. Very caressing. Builds on the palate at the end." James Suckling

Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is probably the richest wine in Viettis vintage range. It is a monument based on performance, intensity and power. At the same time, Rocche is incredibly precise and multi-layered every year. It is precisely this interplay of fullness and finesse that makes the Rocche so tempting. Rose petals, mint and sweet red berries form a crescendo of aromas and textures that appeals to all the senses. In the almost endless reverberation, everything comes into harmony again as if by magic and leaves behind a Nebbiolo experience of the third kind. SUPERIORE.DE

"Plum and black cherry flavors are augmented by leather, underbrush and tobacco notes. Offers hints of chocolate and sweet spices, while the muscular structure keeps this under wraps. Delivers ample fruit and bright acidity, not to mention a lingering aftertaste. Turns silky and elegant with air." Wine Spectator

"Really shows what was possible in this difficult vintage! What a complex nose with hazelnuts, chocolate, flowers and herbs in profusion. Hints of licorice and candied citrus peel, too. Quite a major structure with bold, dry tannins, which are already very well-integrated. A really long finish." James Suckling

"This is a beautiful wine from a challenging vintage—Luca Currado tells me it reminds him of his father and his childhood. Indeed, the 2014 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is a nostalgic wine with old-school Barolo aromas of wild berry, orange peel, hazelnuts and earthy truffle. The wine opens to a very attractive ruby color and dark garnet highlights. The mouthfeel is silky and smooth but extremely well structured at the same time. Some 150 magnums were made in this vintage because there is an expectation that this wine will age with grace and attitude." Wine Advocate

"Vietti's 2014 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is shaping up to be a modern-day classic. Piercing, intense and austere in the best sense of the word, the Rocche is a wine of laser-like focus that will leave Barolo lovers weak in the knees. Candied cherry, pomegranate, kirsch, rose petal and violet overtones give the 2014 its inner sweetness and captivating perfume. In a word: stunning. Don't miss it." Antonio Galloni

Warm, very seductive aromas of black cherries, flowers, tobacco, minerals and undergrowth emerge from the bright ruby red. The interplay between the rich fruit and the classic structure is ingenious. The taste captivates with its intensity, luxurious and mysterious. SUPERIORE.DE

"Autumnal spices, sweet herbs and white smoke give way to ripe cherries and hints of licorice as the deeply seductive 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Bassolino di Sopra unfolds in the glass. This envelops the palate in opulent textural fruits (red and hints of blue), with balsam herbs and nuances of candied citrus lifted by bright acidity. Sweet tannins frame the expression nicely through the slightly candied finish; yet make no mistake, while the Bassolino di Sopra may show the sunny nature of the 2015 vintage, it does so in a wonderfully harmonious way. This single-vineyard Brunello is simply a pleasure to taste and will continue to wow readers over the next 15–20 years." Vinous

Barolo Lazzarito impresses every year with its precision and class - two qualities not often found in the Nebbiolo of the Serralunga area. Iron, smoke and white pepper flow into the nose, in the glass these impressions are prolonged by a hint of pomegranate, red cherry jam, wild flowers and blood orange. Vietti's Lazzarito always stands for power and finesse and has been in no way inferior to its "colleagues" from Ravera and Rocche for quite some time. SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful, bright ruby garnet. Opens in the nose with distinct earthy notes of leather, some tar and truffle, behind it fine blackberry, discreet hazelnut note. Gripping, very intense tannin, a lot of pressure on the palate, but also a very high proportion of harsh, drying components, put it away and forget it for the next ten years." Falstaff

"A release of 8,760 bottles, the Vietti 2017 Barolo Lazzarito draws its fruit from Serralunga d'Alba and reveals a luminous garnet color. Compared to some of the others in this portfolio, the wine takes a little longer to open and express itself. It does, however, unfold to dark cherry, redcurrant, grilled herb, iron ore and candied orange peel. You need to give your glass a few extra vigorous swirls. Those rusty mineral notes build in intensity and drive the wine's medium-long finish." Wine Advocate

"A taut, structured Barolo, offering aromas and flavors of plum and cherry fruit shaded by accents of tobacco, iron, green tea and leafy underbrush. This is firm and gains power on the long finish." Wine Spectator

"Vietti owns two hectares in Lazzarito, a stunning amphitheatre facing southwest on clay-limestone soil. Planted to about 4,500 plants per hectare, the vines here have an average age of 38 years. Sweet, filigreed notes of cinnamon, strawberry candy and violet unfold in the glass. The attack is polished, with ripe, crunchy tannins. The austerity of Serralunga here becomes density and volume, kept lively by lifted acidity and finishing with liquorice root and cinnamon. Perfect balance and great elegance. This will develop more complexity with ageing." Decanter

"Vietti's 2017 Barolo Lazzarito is absolutely gorgeous. Whatever the challenges of the growing season, they appear to have been no problem here. More than anything else, the Lazzarito impresses with its magnificent depth and stature. Super-ripe red fruit, white pepper, mint, tobacco, cured meat, spice and rose petal open gradually with time in the glass. I would not be in a rush to open bottles anytime soon. The Lazzarito has been one of the most improved wines at Vietti for a number of years. The 2017 is so captivating." Vinous

"This is very chewy and powerful with lots of velvety tannins that are firm and intense. It’s full and flavorful with strawberries and tar. Bark undertones. Flavorful finish. Needs time to soften." James Suckling

Bright, rich ruby red. Fine, elegant bouquet with fruit aromas, notes of coffee and complex spice aromas. The taste is long-lasting, the acidity in perfect balance with the tannin and body. A wine with great tension and personality, suitable for long ageing, but also a delight in its youth. SUPERIORE.DE

"Deep ruby red; aromas of black plum, lavender and peppermint. Medium-full with a rich mid-palate with layers of perfectly ripe fruit. Very good acidity, medium-full tannins that are beautifully balanced, nicely integrated wood notes and outstanding persistence. Another brilliant wine from this great producer!" Forbes Magazine

"Elegant odeur of warm-scented raspberries, also nuances of Mediterranean maquis, lots of melt and juice, invigorating acidity, finishes long. Accompanies an autumnal game dish." Vinum

"Dark ruby red with violet edges. Dense, very intense bouquet, immensely multifaceted, exudes a certain lightness with a clearly mineral backdrop, reminiscent of graphite and iron, despite the new wood ageing. Grandiose, because it almost floats. In the mouth, very fine and precisely proportioned, not made for power, but for origin. Impressive final with blue berries." Weinwisser

"Sparkling, rich ruby with a slight garnet shimmer. Exciting and multi-layered nose, initially showing fine notes of cedar, a little resinous, then full of fresh currants and raspberries. Very juicy on the palate, opens with fine-meshed, grippy tannin, salty and long." Falstaff

"The 2018 vintage - according to the estate - produced elegant wines, characterised by their aromatic intensity. If Sangiovese usually brings tension to Grattamacco compared to other Bolgheri superiore based on Bordeaux blends, this year it reveals a slightly greenish touch on the finish. However there is in the glass a great intensity of earthy tones among black pepper and game, then cassis and cedar wood flavours sustained by silky tannins well integrated with firm acidity and just a bit austere finish." Decanter

"Currants, blackberries and hints of chocolate and fresh herbs. Full-bodied and round-tannined with a lovely texture and a savory, almost iron finish. From organically grown grapes. Hard not to drink now, but a year or two will bring it even more together." James Suckling

"A mix of coffee and black olive flavors shade the core of black currant and black cherry in this dense, linear red, which is focused and long, with a mouthwatering finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Grattamacco is the most elegant, refined and satisfying wine I have ever tasted from Grattamacco. There is a level of finesse here that is simply unreal. Bright and translucent, with tons of detail, the 2018 oozes with pedigree. Lavender, spice, mint, tobacco and dried flowers add an attractive upper register." Vinous

"The 2018 Bolgheri Superiore Grattamacco reveals a finely nuanced bouquet with dark fruit, tobacco, smoke and earthy garrigue or underbrush. The wine leans toward full-bodied, but it also feels quite elegant and crisp on the streamlined finish." Wine Advocate

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Elegant and complex: Guado al Tasso with a warm-toned bouquet and an abundance of fruit that is just as impressive as its harmonious structure. Deep, dark, rich ruby-purple colour. Very clear and intense nose, with aromas of blackberries, cassis and dark cherries, underpinned by fine, spicy notes with hints of white pepper and cardamom. Very juicy on the attack and on the palate, with a lot of sweet melting flavour, interwoven, dense tannins, supple and elegant, very long finish. An excellent wine that offers maximum drinking pleasure. SUPERIORE.DE

"Elegant, aristocratic bouquet with concise Cabernet spice, graphite, tobacco, cassis, dark cherries and distinctive notes of prickly pear juice. Dense and elegant on the palate, modern style with polished tannins, again dark fruits, enormously juicy, great juicy tannins, nothing dries out here. Modern in the best sense of the word, but this is already very well done, some dark chocolate and nutty notes on the final. Much clearer and less characterised by wood than in some previous years." Weinwisser

"Aromas of black olives, berries, herbs, red beans, sour cherries and sage are followed by a full body with chewy tannins and plenty of structure. It is flavourful and intense. Needs time to develop. Best after 2027." James Suckling

"Packed with luscious blackberries, blackcurrants and blueberries, this red wine shows the expressive character of the vintage. Just when you think it's too flamboyant, the solid structure keeps it in check. It shows excellent balance and length with a hint of lavender and wild herbs on the lingering finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc." Wine Spectator

"Dense purple in the glass, the 2020 offers a complex bouquet of cassis, earthy forest floor, wild Mediterranean herbs and intense dried eucalyptus leaf. Density and extraction dance in an embrace on a palate that's full of concentration, youth and precision. The tannins are velvety, the acidity natural and crisp, and the use of oak well judged. The finish is focused on graphite minerality, for an enticing yet ageworthy Superiore." Decanter

"Multifaceted perfume on notes of cassis and pepper, with a touch of floral aromas; the attack is full-bodied and yet invigorating, elegant progression with tightly woven tannins, but also youthful acidity, supple, mouth-filling finish, the wood perfectly integrated." Vinum

"The wine shows a beautiful fullness and intensity. The Cabernet Franc is clearly noticeable and gives it the characteristic vertical structure and linearity that this grape variety is known for. You get black fruit, spice, white pepper and no sign of bitter stems or blackberries. Sweet, almost milky tannins are interwoven with fresh acidity, giving this wine good Storage potential. The use of new oak has been scaled back somewhat in this vintage." Wine Advocate

"The Bolgheri Superiore Guado al Tasso 2020 is a rich, resonant wine that captures the natural vibrancy of the Tuscan coast. Blackberry jam, mocha, plum, chocolate, spice and espresso are all present in this medium-bodied but juicy and inviting Bolgheri red wine. The wine is very rich and resonant. This is a classic Guado al Tasso." Vinous

"The nose is rich with notes of blackberries, black cherries and earth, while an undertone of white pepper adds pep. Berries continue to dominate the supple, warm palate before a savoury, chocolaty finish with a further hint of pepper. The stoic tannins are balanced by a lively, persistent acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"Bright, rich ruby violet colour with a subtly brightening rim. Inviting and clear on the nose, of ripe wild berry fruit and rich cherry, with fine mint notes, herbal tea, fine precious wood in the finish, hints of graphite. Juicy entry on the palate, then with tightly woven tannins, compact and balanced, clear fruit in the centre, long final with gentle, elegant pressure." Falstaff

"A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot to best convey the complexity and elegance of the Bolgheri terroir. Black raspberries on the nose, then hints of undergrowth and pepper leaf and balsamic notes on the finish. In the mouth it is crisp and dense, with iodised tannins." Luca Gardini

"Transparent ruby red. Vines over 80 years old provide the material for this exceptional Barbaresco with a cathedral-like appearance on the nose: the ethereal balsamic superstructure with notes of sandalwood and incense, juniper and rosemary is complemented by fruity litanies of cherries, raspberry jam and blood oranges and adorned by floral overtones of violets, mallow and hollyhocks along with a pinch of white pepper. On the palate, it is precisely parted, of noble understatement and charming nature. The fine, long acidity gives it aristocratic polish, the ripe and tightly woven tannins coat it in the noblest thread. Delicate and transparent, the delicate fruit illuminates the entire palate. Conversations fall silent, glasses clink, laughter. Its approachable manner seems jovial, yet it is demanding with decisive insistence and epochal reverberation. Everyone is happy to obey." Sebastian Bordthäuser (Sommelier und Wein-Journalist)

"The 2017 Barbaresco Pajè Vecchie Viti is fascinating when tasted alongside the pure Pajè. The old-vine bottling shows more depth and power, along with a distinctly spicy note that is very seductive. Sweet dried cherries, spices, crushed flowers, mint and incense give the 2017 a remarkable depth. The tannins are a little unyielding today, so a couple of years of cellaring seems warranted at the very least." Vinous

"A silky, elegant red wine with aromas of flowers, strawberries and cherries and a hint of liquorice. Structured, with a slight bite on the finish. It offers good balance and expression with a long, detailed aftertaste." Wine Spectator

"The 2017 Barbaresco Pajè Vecchie Viti comes from the more prized old vines, all over 50 years old. Indeed, this expression reveals a greater sense of depth and detail with wild cherry, dark rose and orange peel. The bouquet is nuanced and refined, and the tannins melt away on a long finish. Roagna shines even in difficult vintages, and this bottle is a prime example." Wine Advocate

"Bright, medium dense garnet red. Intense and inviting nose with notes of plums, ripe cherries, saffron and some ginger. Firm and sturdy on the palate, showing plenty of grippy tannin, pithy, after ripe plums, some earthy notes on the final." Falstaff

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

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

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

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

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

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

Monteverro - a classic French blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot - is a great cru from the Maremma and brims with opulence and diversity. Rich, dark ruby with a black core. Incredibly rich in aromas of dark fruits, chocolate and spices, soft, full body, polished tannins. It is impossible to exaggerate the joy of the magnificence of this wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"This vintage of Monteverro's premium red wine (made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot) has light green aromas reminiscent of blackberries, grilled herbs and potting soil. It was an uneven growing season with a cool and wet spring followed by a hot summer." Wine Advocate

"The 2018 Monteverro is classy, elegant and polished. Lifted aromatics and silky tannins frame this decidedly understated Maremma red. Crushed flowers, spice, menthol, licorice, lavender and dried herbs are all finely laced together. This is such an engaging wine." Vinous

"Sparkling, powerful ruby violet. Compact nose with notes of juicy, dark blackberries, black cherries and currants, fine spice in the background. Full-bodied and gripping on the palate, shows firm, grippy tannins, builds up well, firm pressure on the final and tobacco in the aftertaste." Falstaff

"Blackcurrant and black liquorice with dried flowers and sandalwood. Full-bodied, really racy and powerful with great tannins. Flavourful and very long. Needs time to develop. Give it time until 2024 and beyond." 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