Wine Spectator

The Riserva from the great traditional line of de Castris captivates with intense cherry fruit and fine wood notes. Powerful, round and harmonious on the palate, with a wonderfully long finish. Every year a fantastic price-pleasure ratio! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright dark ruby. Very spicy nose bordering on animal, pepper, dried rose petal, then Amarena cherry, reverberating with pickled plums. On the palate then marked by beautiful juiciness and freshness, opens with delicate pressure, shows character, slightly salty, coherent palate progression." Falstaff

"A harmonious red, medium- to full-bodied, with silky tannins and well-knit flavors of crushed black cherry, espresso crema, violet and spice. A streak of rich, loamy earth is the savory underpinning that emerges on the chewy finish." Wine Spectator

"An alluring mix of clove, allspice, ginger and dusty rose rises up from the 2017 Salice Salentino Riserva. It's silky in texture yet lifted in feel, presenting a pure display of red and blue fruits giving way to exotic spices and sweet tannins that saturate toward the close. Notes of plum and licorice linger through the long, lightly structured finale." Vinous

Bright ruby red, notes of cherry, raspberry and violet. Delicately fine tannins, carried by a fresh acidity framework with subtle extract sweetness, round off the immensely good value and juicy Tuscan experience. SUPERIORE.DE

"Open and fluid, this red evokes blackberry and blueberry fruit, framed by earth and underbrush notes. There's a solid structure, with bright acidity in tandem with dusty tannins." Wine Spectator

"Plenty of sour-cherry and floral aromas with hints of orange peel. It's medium-bodied with firm, silky tannins and a fresh, clean finish. Very typical Chianti Classico." James Suckling

Bright ruby red. The bouquet opens with cedar, then plum and small red berries. Medium-bodied, fresh and with a pleasant buoyancy, precise fruit and a pleasing finish. A wonderful toast wine with ambition! SUPERIORE.DE

"This broad red is laced with cherry, leather, loam and tobacco flavors, backed by firm, dusty tannins. Balanced, with a succulent finish." Wine Spectator

"Dried-cherry, smoke and walnut aromas follow through to a medium body with light tannins and a succulent finish. Linear and bright." James Suckling

The Cerasuolo di Vittoria - a seasoned local red with great tradition and just as much character. Typical fragrance of the wines from Vittoria: Aromas of red berries, cherries, prickly pear, ginger and fruit sweets. Tasty, extremely complex, fresh, lively and yet balanced. SUPERIORE.DE

"Take your time with the 2019 Cerasuolo di Vittoria. It sits in the glass and slowly reveals a captivating bouquet of rubbed sage, black currants and crushed stone, all offset by a beguiling hint of grilled pineapple. It's silky and textural while displaying outstanding purity, with tart woodland berries and minerals cascading across a core of vibrant acidity. Energy remains high, even as hints of grippy tannin tug at the cheeks, adding tension and framing the experience nicely." Vinous

"This lithe, silky red is light- to medium-bodied, with pretty sandalwood and violet accents to the pure cherry and raspberry fruit flavors, followed by hints of loamy earth and light herbs on the finish." Wine Spectator

Fresh ruby red with violet reflections. Refined fragrance of rose petals, roasted herbs, elder and small red berries. In the taste fleshy-drinking after fruit compote, the tannin very fresh and smooth. Long finish with great Italian personality. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright and juicy, this red matches cherry, boysenberry and strawberry fruit with lively acidity. A mineral element and light dusting of tannins linger on the finish." Wine Spectator

The country dance (controdanza) is a typical dance in which man and woman face each other and unite in graceful movements - depending on their gender, the dancers interpret the music in their own way. This wine is exactly the same: Nero d'Aola and Merlot - as is well known, opposites attract and, with the right intuition, can adjust wonderfully to each other, forming harmony and contrast at the same time.

Strong purple. Mulberry and plum contrast with incense and balsamic notes. The grapes all come from calcareous soils, which again bridges the gap and makes this young wine balancing and harmonious. Soft tannins and beautifully integrated delicate acidity carry Controdanza into a smooth, medium-length finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Minerally up front, with lots of tarry smoke and hot stone on the nose, notes that underscore the palate's dried raspberry, singed orange peel and tobacco flavors. Medium- to full-bodied and gusty, with a firm, focused finish." Wine Spectator

"Aromas of smoke, dried cherries, mushrooms and hints of eucalyptus. It's medium-to full-bodied with plenty of earthy, umami notes and citrus peel. Light tannins." James Suckling

Bright ruby red. Bric del Salto interprets the famous Piedmontese grape variety in a direct and classic way. A fruity bouquet combines with the spiciness typical of Neive. On the palate, again clear, with precise fruit, the right dose of fine tannin - and over all, an inspiring freshness. SUPERIORE.DE

"Blackberry, black currant and violet flavors are defined by vivid acidity in this red. Earth and mineral accents add depth. Balanced and long." Wine Spectator

Rich ruby red. Bouquet of rose hips and ripe raspberries, juicy and gripping on the palate. For us, another beautiful facet of the Chianti Classico, as it must be: authentic, drinkable and with excellent value! SUPERIORE.DE

"Macerated cherry and raspberry fruit is accented by wild rosemary and a stony mineral element in this red. There is a fluid feel, yet it's also firm, and the tannins emerge on the finish." Wine Spectator

Intense ruby red, persistent, fruity bouquet with notes of wild berries, violets, cloves and cinnamon, as well as sweet tobacco aromas. On the palate concentrated, fleshy, tannic, dark fruit. In the finish, the spicy tones merge with a pleasant fruity note. All in all a promising drop at a very attractive price! SUPERIORE.DE

"Very rich, dark ruby red. In the nose after fine wood spice and ripe raspberries, cherries, forest fruits, some liquorice in the aftertaste. On the palate it opens beautifully, juicy and clear, handy tannin until the final, delicate post-drying." Falstaff

"Cherry, leather, iron and earth flavors shout Sangiovese, yet there is a saline element too. Linear, dry and persistent. Shows fine balance." Wine Spectator

"Aromas of cherries and watermelon follow through to a medium body, light tannins and a fresh finish. From organically grown grapes." James Suckling

"The bouquet is savory yet slightly restrained in its youthful state, as notes of crushed raspberry give way to peppery floral and herbal tones, with a hint of spiced orange. On the palate, silky textures flood the senses with pure cherry and wild berry, as saline-minerals and fine tannins slowly settle in, kept lively through balanced acidity. The finish is long and structured with saturating dried red fruits resonating, turning more toward the savory spectrum, as youthful tannins clench the senses. The 2016 Colle Massari Montecucco Rosso Riserva is a blend of 80% Sangiovese with equal parts Ciliegiolo and Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s classic in every way and geared up for a long stay in the cellar." Vinous

The aromatically fresh Capitel Foscarino made from Garganega and a pinch of Chardonnay is delicious. Brilliant colour in the glass, beguiling fruit on the nose, round and harmonious on the palate with wonderfully integrated acidity and beautiful length. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sleek acidity creates a mouthwatering impression and defines the finely knit flavors of poached apricot, tangerine peel, fresh hay and Marcona almond on display in this creamy, light- to medium-bodied white. Bright and expressive, with a subtle, mineral-laced finish of smoke, matchstick and spice." Wine Spectator

Bright ruby red. Distinct, characteristic and delicate aroma of raspberries and wild berries. Dry on the palate, with a nice pleasing spiciness and a delicate bitter note, velvety and elegant on the finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Fresh, even tangy pinot with pleasant strawberry and raspberry character. Light body with very fresh acidity driving the finish. Clean and refreshing." James Suckling

"A fragrant red, with abundant ground anise and cardamom spice, rosehip and graphite notes winding through flavors of black plum and wild cherry. Fresh and well-knit, this medium-bodied version offers a bright, spiced finish." Wine Spectator

Mastroberardino makes a special effort to cultivate the ancient grape variety Fiano. It was already cultivated by the Romans, who called it Vitis apiana because of its special attraction to bees (apis). It produces a wine - straw yellow and wonderfully aromatic with a spicy honey and nut bouquet. The characteristic taste is very harmonious. SUPERIORE.DE

"This is lightly creamy and minerally, a light-bodied white with an overtone of smoke and stone layered with the well-cut acidity and flavors of Asian pear, pickled ginger and lemon thyme." Wine Spectator

"This is a fun and versatile white wine. The 2019 Fiano di Avellino Radici is fresh and buoyant with white peach, crushed stone, honey and sage. This is an exceedingly fresh and snappy expression of Fiano, with good acidity and tension, promising an easy pairing with a Neapolitan "pasta cas' cucuzziell e ova," a cheesy pasta with zucchini and eggs." Robert Parker

"Exotic-fruit, pear and white-spring-flower aromas mingle together with a delicate whiff of smoke. The savory, vibrant palate features white stone fruit, lemon drop and a hint of honeyed almond alongside tangy acidity. A saline note adds depth." Wine Enthusiast

"The 2019 Fiano di Avellino Radici is remarkably fresh and vibrant, showing ripe pear with hints of mango. A whiff of smoky florals evolve as the Radici sweeps across the senses with grace, displaying flavors of ripe orchard fruits, then savory hints of sage and minerals. The finish is long and fresh, neatly framed by a twang of residual acids with a saline quality, which begs for another sip." Vinous

"The lemons, lemon grass and dried peaches are embracing on the nose, following through to the palate with a creamy texture and a long, precise finish. Nicely focused." James Suckling

Re di More is an intense and outstanding Aglianico from genuine single-vineyard Prephylloxera clones that combines richness and harmony in the most beautiful way. Aromas of dried fruits, leather, tobacco and spices are perfectly interwoven with fruit, acidity and tannin. SUPERIORE.DE

"A richly tarry, minerally overtone on the nose integrates with flavors of baked blackberry, fig cake, cured tobacco and melted licorice. Round and medium- to full-bodied, this appealing red balances a lavish flavor profile with bright acidity and light tannins that define the fresh, spiced finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Aglianico Re di More leads off with a burst of ripe blackberry preserves, complemented by a whiff of cinnamon and confectioners' sugar. On the palate, soft textures usher in ripe fruits contrasted by saline-minerals over a core of vibrant acids and spice. The finish is long, leaning more toward the savory side, as tart red and black fruits come together with sour citrus, creating a cheek-puckering expression, as hints of youthful tannins linger on. From the bouquet, you expect a blockbuster; yet instead, the palate delivers a pure and zesty expression of Aglianico." Vinous

"Wild aromas of raspberries and cappuccino with some dried flowers. Full-bodied and layered with lots of primary fruit at the moment, but it will age very nicely." James Suckling

Dark ruby red. Dense bouquet of blackcurrant aromas, cocoa and a floral note of mild herbs. Full-bodied and fruity on the palate. The well-balanced components make the wine seem like velvet and silk. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, elegant ruby red. On the nose of ripe strawberry, lush raspberry, a hint of green spice and pepper, reverberating with rose petal. Juicy and present on the palate with tight, juicy tannin, spans a fine arc, long and elegant, with a salty finish." Falstaff

"Abundantly aromatic, this fresh red leads with lots of fresh-chopped rosemary and marjoram notes, as well as a more subtle thread of smoky mineral that underscores the flavors of wild cherry, red currant and Mandarin orange peel. Light, taut tannins define the snappy finish." Wine Spectator

The Chianti Classico from Tenuta Sant' Alfonso is a sophisticated drop of authentic make: red fruits, dried flowers and spices on the nose, followed by a taut, juicy taste - everything in the right place! SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby garnet. Smells of ripe, fresh cherries, some blood orange on the nose. Round and supple on the palate, shows a lot of sweet melting, grippy, finely meshed tannin, cinnamon on the final, medium length." Falstaff

"Plum, leather, eucalyptus and earth flavors ply this tense, linear red. It's on the chewy side, courtesy of dense tannins, yet long and savory." Wine Spectator

"Subtle aromas of cherry, citrus and burnt orange with some fresh mushroom. Medium-bodied with firm, chewy tannins that are fine and polished. Very typical and real for the appellation." James Suckling

Ornello is an open wine with beautiful, inviting aromas of ripe, dark fruits and vegetal notes. Pleasantly fruity and full on the palate with good length and balance. SUPERIORE.DE

"A mix of Tuscan macchia, iron, tobacco and soy flavors swirl around the core of black cherry and blackberry in this expressive, intense red. Solidly built and fresh, with vibrant structure driving the long aftertaste." Wine Spectator

Zenato's world-famous Ripasso Valpolicella Superiore is a rich wine with the best value. Diverse aromas of dark fruits, coffee, liquorice and spices. Harmonious, long and round. A blockbuster and on everyone's lips! SUPERIORE.DE

"Candied cherry and strawberry jam with toast and cedar aromas, a broad and velvety palate and rich and juicy tannins." Decanter

"A rich, medium- to full-bodied red with a deep toasty layer of smoke, brioche, coffee and spice layered with abundant dried cherry, red licorice and roasted fig flavors. It's well-integrated, with sculpted tannins emerging to firm the long, mouthwatering finish." Wine Spectator

"Very focused aromas and flavors of crushed blackcurrants with hints of spice, dried flowers and ash. Intense core of fruit on the medium to full palate with almost a red-licorice coating to the fine, firm tannins. Long finish with persistent fruit. Very sturdy. Always an outstanding bottle." James Suckling

Taurasini Donna Chiara is a sunny, juicy Aglianico with a beautiful variety of aromas, harmoniously round compact taste with wonderful spice and well-integrated tannins. SUPERIORE.DE

"There's a rich streak of hot stone and iron underscoring the ripe and juicy blackberry and damson plum fruit on display in this racy medium- to full-bodied red. Hints of herb and spice play on the chewy finish." Wine Spectator

Il Bacialé made from 60 percent Barbera as well as Pinot Nero, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot entices with its intense colour and complex scent. The straightforward taste is round, highly substantial and persistent. All in all an extremely successful interpretation of the Monferrato Rosso. SUPERIORE.DE

"A rich, blackberry- and plum-infused red, backed by vibrant acidity and civilized tannins. Hints of chocolate and spice add interest as this finishes long." Wine Spectator

Concentrated cuvée of Carignano, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah. Dark fruits on the nose, full and rich on the palate with nice spice, rounded tannin and good length. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2018 Montessu Isola dei Nuraghi mixes crushed violets with hints of blackberry and spice to form an alluring bouquet. This is a feminine and understated effort, showcasing floral-laced woodland berries, minerals and juicy acids. It tapers off clean and poised with lingering notes of sweet plum and licorice. While this vintage doesn't show the power that I usually associate with this wine, it is a well-balanced expression that will excel at the dinner table." Vinous

"A harmonious red, medium- to full-bodied and playing savory herbed olive and salty mineral notes off a pure note of dried raspberry. Fine-grained tannins provide chewy definition, firming the spiced finish." Wine Spectator

Castellares Chianti Classico with refined aromas reminiscent of juicy sweet cherries, flowers and spices such as mint. Silky and polished on the palate, the final long and creamy. A radiant, seductive wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"Owner Paolo Panerai adopted organic practises when he took over his family's estate in 1975, though he has never certified the wines. His iconic labels depict the multitude of rare birds that have returned to the property since the use of synthetic chemicals was eradicated. Pronounced and pretty with scents of allspice, rose, violet and a hint of leather. The palate is sumptuous and layered, with ripe cherry, plum and a juicy nectarine quality. Charmingly exuberant, this is clean and polished but not too polite. It's quite racy and finishes with an orange twist." Decanter

"Aromas of redcurrants, raspberries, pine and cedar. It's medium-to full-bodied with firm, chewy tannins and bright acidity. Juicy and precise on the palate with good structure and a flavorful finish." James Suckling

"Aromas of graphite and eucalyptus are distinctive, giving way to a core of ripe, juicy black cherry, black currant, tar and tobacco flavors. Firm yet balanced in a youthful, exuberant way, with a lingering finish of both fruit and balsamic notes." Wine Spectator

Al Passo is named after the small forest on the highest hill of Tolaini - a magical place with breathtaking panoramic views of the countryside and sunsets over the towers of Siena. The wine is as unique as the forest, showcasing the natural affinity of Sangiovese and Merlot.

Rich garnet with ruby. Intense and enticing bouquet of ripe fruit, orange zest and spicy oak notes, palate with ripe fruit and fresh acidity, balanced, medium body, long final with a fine salty vein. SUPERIORE.DE

"A mix of black cherry, black currant, cedar, iron and tobacco flavors grace this taut red. Nicely balanced and vibrant, ends with a long, tobacco- and spice-tinged finish." Wine Spectator

"The Tolaini 2017 Al Passo is always an ambitious wine that takes the best of the grapes in its blend: Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Each give freshness, structure and textural fiber. Al Passo opens to dark berry fruit and plum, with spice, tobacco and tilled earth. This is a well-priced wine that promises lots of pairings, especially out of a Tuscan cookbook." Robert Parker

"The 2017 Al Passo is a blend of equal parts Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Open-knit and plaint, with soft curves, the 2017 offers tons of immediacy. Cedar, tobacco, dried herbs and macerated cherry all meld together in an inviting, mid-weight Tuscan red to drink over the next decade or so." Vinous

"A beautiful, ripe wine, offering plums and chocolate, as well as tile and walnuts. It's full and layered with beautiful fruit and caressing tannins. Rock on." James Suckling

Exquisitely rich, concentrated and fresh in character, this Venetian has international appeal. Dried black cherry, plum and star anise are flanked by a finely woven tannin and a fresh acidity. Impeccable and a model of concentration and capacity to increase on the palate. SUPERIORE.DE

"This well-balanced red is medium-bodied and fresh, with citrus peel acidity, offering a pleasing range of crushed black cherry and spicy mineral notes, with delicate hints of black licorice and thyme. Light, dusty tannins firm the finish." Wine Spectator

"What a beautiful red with lots of rich, ripe fruit, showing blackberry, walnut, dried,-fruit, fig and black-truffle aromas and flavors. It's full-bodied, layered and chewy but ever so well crafted and polished. Drinkable now, but better in two years. Try after 2022." James Suckling