Wine Spectator

"An expression of elegance in Serralunga", Luca Currado underlines at the tasting of Lazzarito, and we already agree with him on the nose. Gravel, pebbles, red fruits, rose petals, lavender and sage permeate this plastic and very lively Serralunga Barolo. Baroli from Serralunga d'Alba are often in a category of their own thanks to their richness and sheer abundance of fruit. The balsamic symphony opens the doors to a sip that is undoubtedly powerful, but at the same time refreshing and rich in vitamins. With added aeration, Lazzarito delivers mint and balsamic herbs. Lazzarito sets the pace and never loses its rhythm, the great texture of the tannins flanks this palate spectacle in an ideal way and we will discover much more about this great Barolo in the years to come. SUPERIORE.DE

"The round dance opens with fine-smelling notes of red berries and pepper; the attack is full-bodied, the tannins delicately chiselled and in symbiosis with the acidity, perfect evolution, elegant final. Great wine that can still mature." Vinum

"Blood oranges, red berries and hazelnuts; above all, lots of firm structure, casually austere and very taut, crisp and fresh, has a citrus touch and leafy notes, juniper, dark minerality, enormous tension, a still brittle beauty with lots of character, glides finely fruity into the long finish; super potential." Weinwisser

"Sparkling, brightening ruby garnet. Open and inviting nose with notes of cranberry, rose, pomegranate and dried orange peel. Grippy and grippy tannins fuel this wine, fine cherry and orange notes, final with leather, long finish." Falstaff

"On the nose, this wine is quite flamboyant, showing raspberries and grainy notes, along with a hint of fresh mushrooms. With air, some lighter passion fruit comes through. Medium-bodied with an intense core of vibrant fruit and youthful tannins that will add length and breadth to the wine over time. Wait for this wine. Taste it from 2024." James Suckling

"The 2018 Barolo Lazzarito is tense, lively and very closed in on itself. Burning tannins and serralunga structure dominate today. Gravel, pebbles, red fruits, rose petals, lavender and sage run through this plastic, vibrant Serralunga Barolo. What distinguishes Lazzarito most today is that it is stylistically more similar to the other Barolos than it was a few years ago. I expect great things here with time." Vinous

"Round and full of plum, cherry, pomegranate, green tea and eucalyptus aromas, this red wine is also dense and muscular. The finish is dominated by grippy tannins. Overall, it is balanced and very long." Wine Spectator

"Serralunga d'Alba, a magnificent site in the shape of an amphitheatre, with calcareous clay soil. A Barolo of excellent muscularity, nose with notes of wild mint, then raspberry and white pepper. The mouthfeel has spicy-salty tannins, depth, with great persistence and fruity return." Luca Gardini

"The 2018 Barolo Lazzarito represents Vietti's interpretation of Serralunga d'Alba, the village often associated with the appellation's most powerful wines. The Lazzarito completes its second fermentation in barrique over three months and is then transferred to large oak bottles where it ages for a further two years. With around 8,000 bottles produced in this smaller vintage, the wine is very indicative of its geographical origin with dense black fruit, rusty nail, blood orange and earth. Compared to the other wines in this series, this wine offers more persistent tannins. It's still a little salty and spicy now, but it lends itself well to long ageing." Wine Advocate

The supremely potent Rocche di Castiglione is often referred to as the first "official" cru in the history of Langa (along with Bussia di Prunotto, both of which were released with the 1961 vintage). It confirms itself once again as the great classic of the house with the 2018 edition. Dark fruits, pressed lilac, blood orange, powdered liquorice, balsamic herbs, spices, iron ore and aniseed fit together perfectly like pieces of a puzzle. Then lush and racy on the palate, with silky tannins and a great depth and resonance that will continue to develop with time. SUPERIORE.DE

"A Barolo that starts broad and becomes more focused and linear on the finish. It offers aromas and flavours of cherry, plum, minerals, sandalwood and tar that permeate the supple texture, with all components present in the right proportions. Firm, refined tannins give it grip and it lingers beautifully in the mouth." Wine Spectator

"Lots of sweet wild strawberries come into your nose first, but wait for the beautiful, spicy orange peel note that will blow you away. Then mineral and spicy notes come into play. Full-bodied with intense wild fruit and citrus flavours that are already holding on to the slightly chewy tannins. This wine is still very young, but it is packed with bright, spicy-fruity flavours. Patience is called for. Try it from 2025." James Suckling

"The 2018 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is smooth, silky and flattering from the start. Lush and racy, with silky tannins, the Rocche has great depth and plenty of resonance that will develop over time. The 2018 is a particularly potent Rocche that will need a few more years to develop." Vinous

"From Rocche di Castiglione Falletto, another mythological site, with plants over 80 years old and a soil with bluish-yellow pouches. The nose has fresh notes, clementine peel, then red cherries and chamomile. Salty acidic tannins, nice persistence and juiciness, with citrus back." Luca Gardini

"This is one of my favourite wines from Castiglione Falletto. The Vietti 2018 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is beautifully etched and sharp with a particularly delineated quality that is unusual in this vintage. The fruit comes from a small parcel of 8,000 square metres and, like the other wines in this Cru series from Vietti, it is aged for two years in oak barrels. The texture of the wine is beautifully soft and polished thanks to the carefully integrated tannins. Only 3,693 bottles were produced." Wine Advocate

Luca Currado cultivates the Brunate Cru on the La Morra side of the vineyard (opposite the Barolo side) and this wine contains fruit from new plots. It convinces with an impressive aroma of red berries, cherries, wild herbs, mint, minerals and rose petals, rounded off by a hint of blood orange. On the palate we find a terrific softness and textural silkiness, this continues with hints of mint, liquorice and camphor ash for many minutes. Polished tannins round off this masterpiece into an extremely elegant Brunate. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sweet raspberries and strawberries on the nose, as well as some chalky minerals. Full-bodied with a tight bead of fruit and mineral flavors that have a hand on the firm tannins and produce good focus and drive at the end. Needs time to integrate. Try from 2025." James Suckling

"The 2018 Barolo Brunate is a deep, layered wine that is going to need at least a few years to come together. Today, the Brunate is quite primary and backward, but all the ingredients are there. Sage, menthol, licorice, dried flowers and spice build with a bit of coaxing." Vinous

"With fruit from La Morra, the mid-weight 2018 Barolo Brunate shows a pretty softness and a delicate side with dried rose, lilac and blue flower. The wine completes malolactic fermentation in barrique and is later moved into large oak casks for aging. This dual oak treatment is part of Vietti's secret recipe for producing the silky tannins and fine texture you taste here. A production of 4,493 bottles, the wine is recognized by that distinctive aromatic finale of licorice and balsam herb." Wine Advocate

"A refined, silky red marked by a mix of rose, strawberry, cherry, eucalyptus and white pepper aromas and flavors. Shows ample structure and fine intensity as this builds to a long, dusty, mineral-tinged finish. Harmonious, firm and fresh." Wine Spectator

"Municipality of La Morra, the south side of another prestigious cru, with calcareous-clay soil and the classic Marne of Sant’Agata. Plants of about 55 years that originate a wine with the nose of wild plum, then violet, ginger, pink grapefruit and licorice root. Sip with iodine tannins, with a return of the sensations of licorice." Luca Gardini

Dense, concentrated ruby red and a generous, intense bouquet. Besides fresh fruit, tobacco and leather nuances, an aromatic cinnamon and clove spice. Sophisticated taste, to which the fresh acidity and the considerable fullness lend support and elegance. Restrained, perfectly integrated tannin, which also crackles like silk in the finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Beginning to mellow now after 10 years, revealing a bouquet of leather, licorice, macerated cherry, iron and cigar box. Very fresh, lively and focused, with sweet cherry and plum fruit at the core, firm, refined tannins and a long aftertaste of leather and stone." Wine Spectator

"The 2007 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Madonna del Piano is another super- finessed wine. Subtle floral notes meld into expressive red berries in a sumptuous Brunello that captures the essence of the vintage. The style is rich and deeply textured, but the 2007, as outstanding as it is, needs at least a few more years in bottle. Once again, finesse rules the day." Vinous

"The 2007 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Madonna del Piano is anothersuper-finessed wine. Subtle floral notes meld into expressive redberries in a sumptuous Brunello that captures the essence of thevintage. The style is rich and deeply textured, but the 2007, asoutstanding as it is, needs at least a few more years in bottle. Onceagain, finesse rules the day." Wine Advocate

"An impressively structured wine. Aromas of blueberries and blackberries with hints of violets. Full body, with velvety and rich tannins. Very tannic and powerful yet the tannins are polished and pretty. Layers of everything here. Give this another three to four years before opening." James Suckling

"Here's an unforgettable wine that absolutely makes the case for 2007 being one of the best vintages of late in Montalcino. The wine is broad and polished with masculine tones of dark fruit, leather and tobacco. These aromas evolve so quickly and with such pulsing intensity, the wine comes alive suddenly. There are dusty mineral shadings at the back with tightly textured tannins. Hold 10 more years." Wine Enthusiast

Vietti's Ravera is one of the great stars of Piedmont in its precision and structure. It uses fruit from Novello, from a site that looks out over the castle of the same name on the hill in the distance. This wine offers an impeccable balance between nose and mouth, showing immense purity and power in one package. Rose petals, chalk, pepper and a hint of pomegranate make this Barolo one of the most sought-after in the appellation every year. With some ageing, the powerful 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

"Lighter structure this year, but it’s intense, with focused red-cherry and raspberry character and spicy and mineral nuances. Medium-bodied with firm tannins and a very tight finish. This is super-compact and needs time to expand. Try from 2024." James Suckling

"This red leads off with a distinctive minty note allied with cherry, iron, tobacco and underbrush flavors. Turns firm and linear on the finish, with a sinewy feel, yet remains fresh and long. Very pure." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Barolo Ravera is a wine of real depth and vertical structure. As always, the Ravera is a taut, nervy Barolo built on energy more than volume. Readers will have to be patient, as the Ravera is likely to require a number of years to be at its most expressive. Even in the early going, it is vibrant and full of life. Rose petal, chalk, blood orange and white pepper lend striking exotic top notes that are quite suggestive of what the future is going to bring. What a gorgeous Barolo this is." Vinous

"Vietti is one of a handful of estates to bring the Ravera MGA of Novello to the current popularity it enjoys now. Their 2018 Barolo Ravera has a smoky personality with crushed stone and pencil shavings. There is plenty of dark fruit at the back, ripe cherry and blackberry mostly, and the wine is tonic and firm in terms of its structure and tannins. The Ravera is a wine of enormous length and a finely tuned texture. Exactly 7,560 bottles were made." Wine Advocate

Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is arguably the richest wine in Vietti's vintage roster. It is a monument based on performance, intensity and power. At the same time, Rocche is incredibly precise and complex every year. It is precisely this interplay of fullness and finesse that makes Rocche so enticing. 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 back into harmony as if by magic, leaving behind a Nebbiolo experience of the third kind. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, intense ruby with a fine garnet rim. The nose is characterised by intense notes of rose petals, ripe plums, some goji berries and cinchona bark in the background. Substantial and savoury on the nose, spreads out richly, dark fruit, then quite brittle tannin on the back end." Falstaff

"This red is vibrant, aromatic and expressive, exuding rose, strawberry, cherry, licorice, tobacco and tar flavors. Firm and balanced, with refined tannins and a racy finish." Wine Spectator

"Vietti's mighty 2017 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is extremely polished and sharp, showing the smallest details with microscope-like precision in this release of 3,512 bottles. Tart cherry fruit segues to spice, tarry smoke, licorice and a chiseled sense of minerality that adds ample volume and considerable focus. The wine displays alternating moments of dryness, with layers of cherry sweetness, and all this movement adds to the fluid, ever-changing nature of the bouquet. Vintage after vintage, this wine continues to push the boundaries for Barolo made in Castiglione Falletto." Wine Advocate

"The 2017 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione shows all the signatures of this site, all turned up to the maximum. I am not sure I have ever tasted a Vietti Castiglione with this much heft. Super-ripe dark red fruit, rose petal, mocha, dried herbs and menthol all build in an ample, resonant Barolo. Readers should be prepared to cellar the 2017 for the next handful of years, perhaps longer. A whole range of floral and savory notes punctuates the explosive finish." Vinous

"Exuberant and expressive, it overflows with sweet herbs, warm wetland, forest berries, black tea and bergamot. Though quite a mouthful, it remains well-hone as bright acidity lifts and sophisticated tannins wrap around the palate. A stunning wine with impressive mineral persistence. Vietti’s plots are in the central stretch of this MGA where the soil is richer in marl as opposed to sandier parcels further south. Luca Currado credits Rocche di Castiglione’s gentle southeast exposure - which escapes the hot afternoon sun - for maintaining freshness and fragrance in 2017." Decanter

"There’s clarity and energy to this, offering sweet strawberries and watermelon with fresh-rose and sandalwood undertones. Full-bodied with plenty of tannins, which are ultra-fine and polished for the vintage, giving the overall impression of elegance and finesse. Long. Classy." James Suckling

A modernist by the book. Balanced and impressive at the same time. 2018 Rennina with powerful aromas and flavours of violets, black cherries, tobacco and menthol. The tannins are firm yet beautifully integrated. Rennina is a complex, medium-bodied wine, which has a great positive influence on its ageing potential and makes it a success story. SUPERIORE.DE

"Shiny ruby-garnet. Finely marked nose with notes of raspberry and goji berries, liquorice in the background. Full-bodied and dense on the palate, lots of tightly woven tannin embedded in beautiful melting, unfolds smoothly, firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

Rennina" combines three neighbouring plots with different soils, all of which contribute to the final expression. The sandy soil, rich in marine fossils, produces elegant fragrances, while the Galestro delivers structured tannins. A captivating bouquet captures the dusty landscape and sweet, oily herbs of Tuscany. Flavours of cherry and violet saturate the palate, and beautifully integrated oak joins the long, chalky tannins. Spicy and sweet on the finish." Decanter

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Rennina is delicate and unobtrusive in the glass with a pleasant earthy blend of dried strawberry, rose and clove nuances. It embraces a silky fruit texture with a core of vibrant acidity and salty minerals in an unbound Brunello of pure elegance. It finishes with ample tannins but also remarkable freshness that lingers on notes of red plum, mocha and tobacco. This harmonious vintage of Rennina will develop beautifully in collectors' cellars." Vinous

"Harmonious and with an almost creamy texture, this red wine shows aromas and flavours of cherry, raspberry, plum, clay, almond and black pepper. On the finish, it shows a pleasant bitterness that lasts until the end." Wine Spectator

"Rennina, made from fruit from three vineyards with very different soil profiles, maintains its distinct personality with elegant aromas of red fruits, wild berries, cassis, balsamic herbs and toasted almonds. This vintage shows hints of baked clay or black olive, highlighting the warm conditions of the vintage. The wine is generous in mouthfeel, with a lovely richness that remains graceful at the same time." Wine Advocate

"Complex, wild and energetic with an intellectual array of fresh truffles, blackberries, bark, cardamom, dried porcini mushrooms, miso and rosemary. Full-bodied yet agile, with firm, taut tannins and sharp acidity. Powerful and dense. Needs a few years to open up. Taste after 2025." James Suckling

Madonna del Piano - the top vineyard of Valdicava, which takes its name from the small church there. A great Riserva with lovely tobacco notes and hints of sour cherries, the taste reveals a lovely texture and wonderfully resolved tannins. SUPERIORE.DE

"Here is a big wine with lofty ambitions and an impactful presentation. The Valdicava 2010 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Madonna del Piano hits all the right buttons. The wine shows a profound sense of elegance and poise with subtle berry notes that blend into spice, licorice and tar. Those bright and lively aromatic components fold gracefully within the wine's tight texture, its sheer power and the silky nature of the tannins. This wine promises a long and steady aging future ahead." Wine Advocate

"Sumptuous, offering ripe aromas of plum, cherry, spice, earth, iron and tobacco. Velvety in texture and elegant, this nonetheless has an ironclad structure underneath. Firm and long, fresh, echoing tobacco and mineral. Seductive, yet reserved too." Wine Spectator

"A wine with superb finesse and depth. So subtle and understated yet powerful and long. The tannin intensity is amazing. It just builds like a massive wave. Superb. Give this time in the bottle. The length is endless." James Suckling

"The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Madonna del Piano is shaping up to be a real beauty. Powerful and dramatic, but also remarkably polished for such a big wine, the 2010 has a lot going on. Raspberry jam, wild flowers, spices, new leather, smoke and tobacco are laced into the powerful intense finish. The 2010 is an especially finessed Madonna del Piano with a bright future." Vinous

Vinified only in the best vintages and in small batches, Brunello di Montalcino PS Riserva comes from vines planted in the 1970s in Pelagrilli, one of the districts on the north side of Montalcino. The 2016 is deep yet translucent and offers wonderful intensity. The bouquet is fluid and graceful with a very precise and concentrated presentation. Dark cherry, plum, rose petal, spice, liquorice and new French oak are just some of the characteristics that excite us. The finish is silky and very long. Attractive tones of spicy smoked meat appear at the very end. A full and very focused Sangiovese from the top year 2016. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright ruby garnet. Very clear and precise nose, shows beautiful matured fruit notes, plays between nuances of raspberry, cherry and strawberry, underpinned by spicy components. Shows compact and polished on the palate, lots of fine-meshed tannin in many layers, fine fruit, firm pressure on the final." Falstaff

"Medium to deep ruby red. Deep, sweet cherry aroma with more than a hint of cardamom. Lots of maraschino cherry on the palate with supple acidity building to a very long, aromatic final with a perfect dose of chewy tannins. A baroque, dramatic wine." Jancis Robinson

"Broad, stimulating flavours of blackcurrants and blackberries, with elements of iron, tobacco and toasted spices. Accents of wild herbs add detail, while dense tannins flex their muscles on the long finish. Lively and concentrated, with energy and potential." Wine Spectator

"It's hard to tear yourself away from the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva PS, as a stunning blend of cool mint and menthol gives way to cloves, cedar chips, dried cherries and underbrush. This dark beauty impresses with a texture like crushed velvet, weighty and fleshy yet refined. Sour berries combine with hints of blood orange and inner herbal notes to create an interplay of salty and sweet tension. It's not the concentration or heady aromas or flavours that impress here, but the wonderful balance they all create. The 2016 Riserva PS finishes incredibly long, unexpectedly fresh, with fine-grained tannins and notes of liquorice and blackcurrant." Vinous

"From a small, precious cru of 1.5 ha in the Pellagrilli area, aged for 24 months in barrique, then in bottle, a wine of lush concentration. Red currant jam, with notes of lemon thyme and even sweet spices like cinnamon. The mouthfeel is dense and crisp, with saline tannins and a fruity, balsamic return on the finish." Luca Gardini

"This is a wine of impressive size and depth. The Siro Pacenti 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva PS is modern, bold, powerful and built like a brick wall. It offers plenty of concentration and richness of texture, but it also boasts a fairly dark ruby colour that is beautiful in the glass. It is a healthy, vibrant wine with plenty of aromatic character. The tannins are fruity and oaky (both of which ensure that the wine can age for a long time in the cellar), and it sits firmly on the palate, giving it creaminess and structure. Give it plenty of time to develop. With time (I tasted the bottle again 24 and 48 hours after opening), it reveals delicate nuances of mountain herbs, mint and violets. There are only 650 bottles of this vintage and some larger formats." Wine Advocate

"Enchanting nuances of blue fruits, raspberries and black cherries with flowers such as rosemary flowers and violets. Full-bodied with a dense and intense palate of ripe tannins that are fine and polished. So persistent and beautiful with focus and brightness. Lasts for minutes after. Try it after 2024." James Suckling

The cru sites Liste, Terlo, Baudana, Gabutti, Ravera di Monforte and Mosconi are the origins of the grapes for the terrificVia Nuova. It is a monumental, exciting wine that combines the best that the vintage had to offer. Explosive in the glass, with breathtaking aromatic depth, it is stunningly beautiful from the first sip. Dark macerated cherry, lavender, spice, menthol and rose petals are enhanced by the underlying acidity and tannin that give the wine its energy and drive. Via Nuova is a wine of exceptional harmony, purity and finesse with an everlasting finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Concentrated medium ruby. A bit more oak on the nose and a bit more extensive than the Cannubi and with great depth. Complex note of new leather from the oak. Lots of everything on the palate with lively acidity and fragrant, ripe fruit. Long, chalky tannins give firm grip to the juicy finish." Jancis Robinson

"Tart, nutty, clearly herbal and dried floral, also tobacco aroma of red and black berries with a little leather, dried tomatoes and a trace of meat juice. Taut, tangy fruit with nutty, resinous-herbal and tobacco notes, some pepper, eucalyptus, plum and again also meat juice, present, fine-sandy, predominantly crumbly tannins, certain acidity, persistent on the palate, good depth, clearly salt, a trace of coffee and malt in the background, rose tones, hints of citrus, peppery nuances, still little developed, very good, firm, tangy and spicy, again clearly herbal finish with grip and bite. May mature." Wein-plus

"A racy Barolo with fine tannins, fresh acid backbone and undertones of orange peel. It is lively and medium-bodied with fine tannins and a crisp finish. Give it three or four years to develop." James Suckling

"Packed with cherry and raspberry flavors, this red is both supple and firmly structured. Reveals earth, mineral, eucalyptus and anise notes that add depth, while the muscular tannins take over on the finish for now. Shows fine potential." Wine Spectator

"Bright, dark ruby garnet. In the nose of fine peppermint, rich heart cherries, clearly liquorice, in the finish also fine earthy tones. Creamy and supple on the palate, then develops on ferruginous, sturdy tannins, very powerful, rich in energy, still a bit bulky in the finish, still wants to age." Falstaff

"The 2019 Barolo Via Nuova is a blend of fruit from different sites in several villages of the appellation. The wine is immediately open and beautiful, showing dark fruit, cherry, spice, blue flowers and floral earth. The healthy fruit in this vintage shows an almost crisp quality." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Barolo Via Nuova is another great wine in this tasting. In its aromatic intensity, the 2019 is high and wide, it has it all. The blend of seven sites works so well. harvestwill find a seamless, wonderfully complete Barolo. Dried flowers, herbs, mint, rose petals, cherry and orange peel give it remarkable complexity. The 2019 is deep and also quite rich, but not at all heavy. There is a hint of oak sweetness, but that only adds to the exotic beauty of the wine." Vinous

"A Barolo of great interest, velvety and elegant. On the nose, notes of sour cherries, a touch of undergrowth and lightly smoked, complemented by balsamic notes and black pepper. On the palate, fruity and smoky notes reappear, with a balsamic and spicy finish." Luca Gardini

Andrea Franchetti began positioning Palazzi as an equal red alongside his flagship Tenuta di Trinoro in the 1990s, with the aim of producing two exceptional wines that evoke the left and right banks of Bordeaux.

Just three words: power, intensity and concentration. With a very manageable production of 1,660 bottles, here comes a full-throttle Tuscan wine that exudes generous black fruit, spice and sweet tobacco all the time. There is also black cherry and plum, which give the wine soft contours and sweetness. On the palate, it is firm, well-structured and delights with a mouth-filling richness that is second to none. Take a good piece of red meat, marinate it in rosemary and olive oil before heading to the charcoal grill and then embark on this monumental adventure. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich ruby with a black core. Intense and inviting nose with notes of cocoa, blackberry, plum and fine spices. Dense and concentrated on the palate, very lush, grippy, savoury tannins, rich tobacco on the long final." Falstaff

"This vibrant red is pure and well-defined, with cherry, raspberry and floral aromas and flavors detailed by iron and wild thyme, supported from dense yet refined tannins. Excellent length." Wine Spectator

"The Tenuta di Trinoro 2019 Palazzi is a pure expression of Merlot with incoming fruit from the Palazzi vineyard that is characterized by dense clay soils. The wine's intensity is what stands out most, and that power is fueled by lovely nuances of black fruit, spice, sweet tobacco and baker's chocolate. Palazzi excels in terms of mouthfeel. The smooth richness and deep softness achieved here is only possible with this grape. Furthermore, it seems only possible in this spectacular, sun-drenched corner of undiscovered Tuscany known as Sarteano." Wine Advocate

"The 2019 Palazzi is a classic Trinoro wine, with maybe a bit less bombastic intensity than some of the earlier wines, but all of the seamless elegance that has long made these reds so compelling. All the elements are wonderfully put together in the 2019, a wine that impresses with its mix of elegance, flamboyant intensity and sheer allure. I loved it." Vinous

The great Barolo Ciabot Mentin Ginestra from the historic Clerico vineyard. Bright garnet red colour. Open-hearted bouquet of ripe fruit and spices, the elegant tannins are accompanied by a pleasant freshness in the complex flavour, deep and long on the finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich ruby red with brightening edges. Inviting aroma of cherries, ripe raspberries and plums, leather and sweet tobacco. Powerful and juicy on the palate, precise fruit flavours." Falstaff

"Firm and quite deep, youthful aroma of ripe black and red berries with moderate, slightly bitter-chocolatey wood spice, tobacco notes and floral traces, tomato essence, roasted notes and a hint of pepper. Ripe, firm, tart-juicy fruit, youthful, quite present, yet polished tannins, smoky and very slightly roasted notes, a certain acid bite, a little coffee in the background, salty minerality, certain depth, still completely undeveloped, has freshness and tension, very good, tart-juicy and again somewhat smoky-spicy finish with bite." Wein-plus

"Perfumed and beautiful, with notes of sliced berries, melon, citrus and flowers on the nose. Full-bodied with juicy tannins, chewy and beautiful. Focussed and spicy on the finish. Very transparent and concentrated. Try after 2027." James Suckling

"An imminent but solidly structured red wine characterised by aromas of cherry, eucalyptus, tar, iron and tobacco. It tightens up on the finish, leaving behind compact, mouth-coating tannins. Should develop into a core of pure, ripe fruit in the future." Wine Spectator

"The Domenico Clerico 2019 Barolo Ginestra Ciabot Mentin is a little closed at first. This is a characteristic I found in a vintage that gives us good reason to focus on long bottle ageing. There are dark fruits and spices with liquorice and grilled herbs. Rusty mineral nuances also slowly emerge from the bouquet. This wine needs a double decant if drunk young, but it's better to wait. When I returned 24 hours later for my open tasting, the wine sang beautifully." Wine Advocate

"Nose with hints of black cherry under spirits, touches of wild mint, cinnamon and fresh thyme. In the taste savory tannins, fruity-balsamic and officinal notes. Long lasting persistence." Luca Gardini

"The Ciabot Mentin was planted in 1978 in Ginestra, between 390 and 420 metres above sea level - relatively high for Barolo - but mostly with an eastern exposure, which enhances the freshness and elegance of this wine. The 2019 is indeed cool, with a fresh violet scent, a certain meatiness and black cherry fruit and an almost rosemary-like aromatic character. Its extreme youth is emphasised by crisp acidity and supple, velvety tannins. A very precise wine, still complex and ripe, but also full of potential for the long haul." Decanter

Deep dark ruby with bright garnet reflections. Impressive, deep bouquet of dried fruits, cloves, nutmeg and roasted almonds to cola, liquorice and pressed rose petals. In the drink, it unfolds its spectacular diversity and opulence paired with a fine fruit sweetness. Le Lucere 2016 has an exceptional race and personality and has catapulted itself fully into the top group of the appellation with this exceptional vintage. SUPERIORE.DE

"Surrounded by forest, Le Lucére is an east-facing amphitheatre on predominantly silty soil. While it shares some of the woodland character of the estate Brunello, there's a distinct floral personality to this: rose and violet are accentuated by a touch of volatile acidity. Ample, concentrated and rich, red cherry flavours are laced with smoky toasted oak, shored up by lots of grainy tannins." Decanter

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Le Lucere takes things to a darker and more earthy place. Flowery undergrowth, wet stone and tobacco lift from the glass, taking on fresher notes of raspberry and sage over time. There's a gorgeous interplay of velvety textures, salty minerals and lifting acidity in the mouth, as well as fine tannins which blend to create a classically balanced impression. Red fruits linger along with hints of licorice and minty herbs, while the structure of the 2016 Le Lucere takes a back seat through the finale. This is a very well constructed effort that should excel over the medium term." Vinous

"This special selection of fruit from San Filippo is characterized by more intensity and concentration compared to the estate's classic Brunello. In this vintage, I also discovered a greater level of Sangiovese purity and direction, thanks to tight berry tones, dusty mineral, spice and balsam herb. To the palate, the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino le Lucére delivers succulent fruit and even a touch of sweetness, all powered by tannins, clearly driven by both the oak and the fruit itself." Wine Advocate

"This is rich and very linear at the same time, with cherry, tile, walnut and light chocolate aromas. Some mahogany. Very complex. Full-bodied, yet tight and reserved with a very, very long finish. Really gorgeous." James Suckling

"This red is laden with balsamic aromas and flavors of juniper, rosemary and rose, plus black currant and raspberry fruit. There's an underlying mineral element, along with firm, mature tannins that enhance the overall elegance and finesse." Wine Spectator

Amarone della Valpolicella Classico La Fabriseria shows itself massive and with seductive complexity. Deep bouquet of black berries and cocoa, violets and lavender. The taste is immensely fruity with aromas of cherry, blackberry and wild berry, plus the invigorating impressions of medicinal herbs again and again. The finish is elegant and long with a fine sweetness and a hint of mint. For us, one of the greatest wines of the Valpolicella! SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful, bright ruby. Very clear and intense nose, full of dark currant sweets, dark cherry juice, spicy honey and some resin in the background. Dense and full-bodied in the attack and course, shows a lot of grippy, dense tannin, flows clearly and calmly, dark pepper in the finish, very much Storage potential." Falstaff

"A pure beam of crème de cassis and baked black cherries is accented by an enticing palette of sandalwood, liquorice and Earl Grey tea leaf notes in this fine-mesh, medium to full-bodied red. Long and delicious, with a rich hint of fig cake and a touch of mineral iron on the slightly chewy finish." Wine Spectator

"In the glass, aromas of crushed violet, baked plum, underbrush and new leather combine. The palate is velvety and densely concentrated, offering delicious raspberry jam, soaked plums and baking spices before finishing with a tobaccoic finish. Despite its big, bold structure, it has refined tannins that support and polish it seamlessly." Wine Enthusiast

"Sumptuous notes of balsamic, mint, dried thyme, kirsch and mountain herb. A raft of tannins doused with dried tobacco leaf and clove, compress the fruit as much as promote it. The thick-skinned oseleta is in the blend, contributing immensely to the firm structural lattice. Drive, power and length, with no dearth of freshness. Excellent Amarone for those seeking power as much as freshness. This has a very traditional, savoury air to it. One glass is not quite sufficient in this case." James Suckling

"The Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva La Fabriseria 2015 trades power for elegance and feminine beauty. Notes of mineral ripe cherries, currants, sage and cocoa gain volume and depth with time in the glass. The wine is seamless and silky, gliding over a core of lively acids, with juicy red and black fruits giving way to sweet spices and pretty flowers. A bitter hint of coffee and spicy herbal notes combine with tart blackberries and linger for well over a minute. This is just great." Vinous

"The Tedeschi family's top wine is their 2015 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva la Fabriseria. The wine is a careful blend of 40% Corvina, 40% Corvinone, 15% Rondinella and 5% Oseleta, all aged in oak for 48 months. The appassimento process has produced a powerful and muscular wine that opens with thick layers of black fruits, plums, dried cherries, spices, mesquite smoke, iron and sweet rum cake. With only 2,500 bottles made, this full-bodied blockbuster wine is a lesson in all the beautiful excesses that extreme Amarone has to offer." Wine Advocate

The already very well-balanced and classic 2018 vintage can gain again with Fuligni, because no Riserva was produced. Ruby red with orange reflections. On the nose, after some aeration, ripe morello cherries, violets, roses and lots of Mediterranean scrub. Powerful on the palate, the silky tannins give it elegance and the necessary balance, its complexity comes to the fore with every sip. This very authentic and strongly focused Brunello can be counted among the best of the vintage, its wonderfully balanced proportions and its juiciness will give it further impetus in the coming years. SUPERIORE.DE

"Clear, quite firm, a touch floral aroma of ripe red and also black berries with nutty aromas, a little tobacco, cigar ash, dried herbs and dried meat. Firmly woven, tart and juicy, quite noble fruit, present, fine, youthful tannin, some acid bite, peppery and ethereal herbal nuances on the palate, persistent, good depth, salt in the background, a little cocoa and coffee, complex, still undeveloped but already impressive, has tension and finesse, very good, tight finish with coffee notes and ethereal, also slightly resinous spice." Wein-Plus

"Sparkling, medium dense ruby with a broad garnet rim. Very fragrant and inviting nose, shows lots of fresh fruit, of fresh plum and cherry, fine herbal spice in the background. Compact and present in attack and course, shows itself very balanced and clear, very well integrated tannin, spreads out in long waves, nice juiciness in the drink." Falstaff

"Medium to deep ruby red with orange reflections. There is a kinship with the Rosso 2020 in the oak notes, but here it is a bit more complex and less exotic. Iron, cherry, raspberry with complex oak notes in the background. Cardamom and cumin. A good mouthful of juicy red fruits with fine but persistent tannins. Refreshing, transparent and elegant. Quite amazing balance and lovely bite." Jancis Robinson

"It takes quite a while for the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino to open in the glass. A cloud of white smoke gives way to a sweet-smelling blend of dried roses, sugared cherries and a hint of exotic spices. This is a round and supple 2018 that conveys elegance through its velvety texture, polished ripe red fruits and cascading florals of violets. The 2018 is opulent but also has the acidity to keep it balanced, as it finishes long with classically refined tannins but leaves the palate perfectly poised for another sip. Honestly, it's hard to put this glass down. No Riserva will be produced in 2018, so all the juice has been used to support this open and seductive Brunello." Vinous

"A fine Brunello with aromas and flavours of black cherries, hazelnuts and chocolate. Very perfumed. Medium body with a nice texture and delicious finish. Nice, fine tannins. Not the best structured red wine, but it will improve with age and is a wonderful treat right now." James Suckling

"The Fuligni 2018 Brunello di Montalcino stands out for its supple integration of aromas and the carefully balanced intensity achieved here, which shows verve but also remains very fine and nuanced. The bouquet is multi-layered and reminiscent of wild fruits, cassis, rock gravel, candied oranges and fresh herbs or rosemary. A floral note also emerges, reminiscent of rose or orris root. The tannins are very well integrated and silky. You hardly feel them, and yet the wine has a firm structure throughout." Wine Advocate

"An elegant, juicy red wine with pure cherry and rosehip flavours. Nice balance of fruit, acidity, tannins and texture, with accents of earth, tobacco and wild herbs adding detail. The long finish suggests great potential." Wine Spectator

"Under the direction of Maria Flora Fuligni since 1971, along with her long-time right-hand woman Dr Daniela Perino - now CEO of the winery - Fuligni is one of the denomination's most consistent performers. The 2018 does not disappoint: it embodies the elegance of the vintage. The nose is a captivating synthesis of flowers and earth, exuding pressed violets, lavender and roses with accents of truffle and tobacco. In the mouth, it unfolds with flavour rather than weight or power. Redcurrants and oranges are enhanced by piercing acidity, and the shapely, gorgeously textured tannins are chalky and appropriately cushioned, adding layers and depth. This wine, which is not beyond its capacity, will drink beautifully over the next decade." Decanter

The Fuligni winery offers an "evergreen" at its best with this version of the traditional-style Brunello. Blackcurrant and juniper on the nose, with a hint of pepper leaf on the finish. Salty and taut tannins on the palate, fruity-balsamic return on the finish." Luca Gardini

The grapes for the "Suolo" Brunello selection come from the vineyard of the same name and from the estate's oldest vines. They lie at an altitude of 320 metres on soils of clay-limestone marl rich in skeletons and fossils. It is the ideal terroir to fully express the character of the old Sangiovese Grosso clones and gives the wine an acidic, spicy profile. Only part of the vineyard parcels are used for this label. Long ageing in 15-hectolitre Allier oak barrels and a resting period in the bottle complete it and prepare it for the market and the challenge of time. Around 5,000 bottles are bottled only in the best vintages.

The wine announces itself with a deep ruby red colour and opens with a seductive bouquet in which ripe cherries and small fruits give way to more complex notes of tobacco, flowers and undergrowth, before fading into spice and citrus peel. The palate is broad, deep and crisp, supported by a rich acidic framework that carries intact fruit and tannins of spectacular finesse. Rich but not too dense, it is assertive, profound and elegant, with an exceptional vitality that promises glorious ageing. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, shiny ruby red colour with a delicately brightening rim. Expressive and clear on the nose of fresh wild strawberries, mint, precious wood, dried tomato, underpinned by light spice and maquis. On the palate with a polished entry and progression, builds up fleshy and juicy, with elegant pressure, profound and elegant, in the final on noble earthy notes, will mature excellently." Falstaff

"The Argiano 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna del Suolo (5,000 bottles) shows good fruit richness with cherry, dried raspberry and plum. The tannins are silky and fine, and the wine envelops the palate with a medium-weight texture and balanced freshness." Wine Advocate

"Argiano is back on track with this 2018 Brunello at an excellent price. Packed with flavour, it shows the vintage well: while the colour is scarce - pale garnet - the aromas are vibrant and enticing with spiced cherry and Mediterranean flowers bursting from the glass. It is medium-bodied and fluid, revealing the warm southern exposure of the vineyards. The tannins are fine and layered, with a chalky texture. Although the winery has released its Vigna del Suolo selection, there will be no Riserva bottling for 2018." Decanter

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna del Suolo is seductive and understated in the glass, showing musky blackcurrant flavours accompanied by hints of sage and clove. It is graceful and refined, yet enveloping, with bright acidity enlivening the red plums and ripe strawberries, while a hint of balsamic spice resonates. The 2018 finishes with grippy tension as the fine tannins penetrate deeply, leaving notes of dried cherry and lavender that slowly fade away. The Vigna del Suolo will need patience to fully unfold and develop its flavours. But it will be worth the wait. This is a beauty." Decanter

"A very fine and polished Brunello with fine, creamy tannins that are polished and very curated. Character of cherry and bark. Medium to full body with ripe tannins. Juicy. Orange peel flavours. Try it after 2025, but it's delicious now." James Suckling

"This supple, clean-lined red grabs your attention with a beam of cherry and blackcurrant flavours, while lacy tannins line the finish. It shows flavours of earth, menthol, white pepper and juicy red berries that are expressive and delicious. Super long finish." Wine Spectator

"An essential part of Ilcine history, a wine that is the result of Bernardino Sani's great zoning work. Multi-faceted on the nose, with notes of wild plum, pepper leaf and star anise. Exciting and flavoursome on the palate, with a fruity finish." Luca Gardini

"A sweet, floral nose welcomes you with a warm embrace of vanilla and cherry before an earthy savoriness surprises you with notes of soil, leather, sun-dried tomato and oregano. The tomatoes sweeten on the palate joined by cherries and chili heat before a saline finish. A wine that defines itself with fruit so alive you could take its pulse, and contoured, seductive tannins." Wine Enthusiast

Camarcanda is a rich Bolgheri Rosso Superiore with a dark bouquet of black fruit, espresso, chocolate, liquorice and tar. The palate is extremely full-bodied, with outstanding depth, dense structure and a firm body. Opulent and long, this wine already shows a wide range of personality. SUPERIORE.DE

"Fragrant bouquet with rather red fruits, cherries and wild berries, framed by balsamic notes, delicately floral, lavender. Melting and smooth in the mouth with fruity and then also tart notes, salty-spicy final." Weinwisser

"At this young stage, the wine shows a youthful primary fruit and impresses with its balance and integration of fruit and oak. Angelo Gaja and his team have dedicated themselves to the pursuit of elegance in these two grape varieties, which can often develop too much power and concentration if they are not controlled. The right timing of the harvest and the careful use of French oak are key to this overall result, especially with regard to the medium to full body and long silkiness of this age-worthy vintage." Wine Advocate

"Diverse bouquet of forest fruits, spicy macchia and balsamic notes; firm texture, the tannins extremely finely chiselled, underpinned by crisp acidity, the final opulent with plenty of juice, density and length. Also extremely successful in this vintage." Vinum

"The aromas of this wine are somewhat muted today, but the blackcurrant, blueberry, violet, cedar and wild herb flavours are expressive and well articulated. It is supported by lively acidity and a dense tannic matrix and finishes long and full of flavour." Wine Spectator

"The nose of this Bolgheri Superiore packs a punch for its lavish integration of clove, balsam, eucalyptus leaf and restrained bramble fruits. The attack is velvety, with great development of youthful, fine-grained tannins over the mid-palate, long, lifted acidity, and a toasty finish soaked with fruit. A wine with a long life ahead, a great example of a Bordeaux blend with Mediterranean identity, and one of the greatest Bolgheri tasted from Ca' Marcanda to date." Decanter

"Redcurrants, rose petals and ink, plus some fresh herbs. Medium-bodied with fine and taut tannins that give the wine focus and beauty. This wine will develop beautifully. Taste it after 2028, but it's already excellent now." James Suckling

"The Camarcanda 2020 is smooth, elegant and wonderfully expressive. Exquisite flavours and silky tannins give the Camarcanda a lot of finesse. The 2020 is deceptively medium-bodied and has a wonderful finish. Pretty floral and spicy notes open the finish effortlessly. The 2020 is without question the best Camarcanda yet. Bravo." Vinous

Camartina 2016 has exceptional finesse and elegance. Elegant, deep ruby red. Rich aromas of black and red berries such as black cherry and blueberry, joined by notes of ripe plum and tamarind. With further aeration then multi-layered notes of ivy, forest floor and freshly cut bark with hints of leather, sweet tobacco and liquorice. The full and silky body is framed by firm but well-integrated tannins supported by excellent acidity. Then, just before the long finish, ripe black fruits enriched by nutmeg and sweet spices. Great its Tuscan identity full of energy and liveliness. SUPERIORE.DE

"Shiny, dense ruby. Opens on the nose with fine spicy notes, cinnamon blossom and clove, followed by cassis and plum. Substantial and powerful on the attack, opens with many layers of present tannin, lots of juicy berry fruit." Falstaff

"Very pretty and precise with tight tannins and polish. It's linear and compact with blackberry, blackcurrant and cherry character. Racy and polished." James Suckling

"Ripe, sweet black currant, black cherry, iron, leather and tobacco flavors mingle in this tightly-wound red. Balanced, dense and remains focused and persistent on the lingering finish." Wine Spectator

"The 2016 Camartina is superb. As always, Camartina is 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Sangiovese, all from Greve's Ruffoli district, where Querciabella is located. At this stage in its development, the Camartina is driven by Sangiovese in its red-toned fruit, aromatics and acid profile. The 2016 is vibrant, saline and full of energy. I am so intrigued to see how it develops in bottle." Vinous

The first Caggiole was launched in 1988 and disappeared again as early as 1995, because the flagship Asinone simply met consumers' tastes better. Today - after more than 20 years of abstinence - the Nobile Le Caggiole is back on the market as the new first wine of the house. Estate owner Dott. Federico Carletti has dedicated this masterpiece to his wife Anna - setting a new benchmark for Poliziano and the entire denomination. We are very pleased to present this strictly limited top wine!

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

"Radiant, elegant ruby red with a delicately lightening rim. Expressive and fragrant nose of ripe heart cherries, wild strawberries, noble use of wood and fine spices in the background. Very polished and juicy on the palate, tightly woven tannins coat the hearty fruit, radiant and finesse-rich, still a little grippy on the final." Falstaff

"The 2018 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Le Caggiole lifts up with a display like human catnip. A pleasant air of vanilla custard accentuates sweet smoke, grilled sage, cocoa and rum-soaked cherries. It’s silky and polished in feel yet finessed with an almost weightless aura, showing decidedly ripe plum and hints of candied citrus to balance. The 2018 finishes long and gently tannic, with inner tobacco and sweet herbal tones lingering incredibly long. While the nose is a bit candied in personality, the 2018 possesses fantastic harmony within. I'm very interested to see what a few years of cellaring might do." Vinous

"Features a fine balance between the cherry, currant, earth, wild thyme and eucalyptus flavors, with a firm backbone of tannins and juicy acidity. Well-delineated and long, this red is complex and refined." Wine Spectator

"A firm and fine Vino Nobile with cherry, berry and lightly earthy aromas. Crushed stone. Medium body. Linear finish. A little tight now. Give it two or three years. Try after 2024." James Suckling

Full-bodied, noble cuvée from the winery of the same name: aromas of red fruits, a light hint of roasted coffee, juniper, pepper and animal notes, an excellent tannin structure and a beautiful acidity give the "Bordeaux from Bolgheri" its exceptional independence and great elegance. SUPERIORE.DE

"Expansive bouquet with ripe dark fruits, sweet spices and ethereal-balsamic notes, plus cedar and tobacco notes, flirts with overripeness. In the mouth, despite the dense structure with a supple drinking flow, appears polished and full-bodied with fine acidity, elaborate tannin, not as crisp as some others, rather round, subtle and gently melting, in the final then with a characterful mineral-iron-like and typical spice." Weinwisser

"Argentiera typically shines for its reddish fruit in this hilly southern part of Bolgheri, and here we have an intensity of red fruits, mostly cherry, which dominates the notes along with a floral touch. The style is juicy with refined, velvety tannins, zesty acidity, and a polished, elegant palate impression. The use of oak is balanced, with a soft toastiness and restrained tobacco aftertaste. Still tight at the moment, this will need bottle ageing to soften it." Decanter

"The Argentiera 2020 Bolgheri Superiore Argentiera is and remains a proud and cautious expression of a hot vintage. The fruit intensity starts with a bang, and the wine shifts up into sixth gear in the first few moments. However, the overall experience is somewhat shorter. Perhaps you should give it more time in the bottle." Wine Advocate

"A dark, brooding red, but also soft and complex, revealing flavours of blackcurrant, blackberry, plum, loam and sweet spice. Wonderfully balanced and fluid, with a long, detailed aftertaste that plays around the tannins. Impressive." Wine Spectator

"Charismatic bouquet of plum jam and herbs, also liquorice and pepper; powerful in the mouth with lots of juice, pressure and length." Vinum

"Rich flavours of currants and plums with undertones of chocolate and walnut. Full-bodied and chewy with layers of tannins. It is a big wine and very juicy with a polished and long finish. Needs five to six years to mellow." James Suckling

"Bright, rich ruby red colour with a delicate purple hue. Expressive and fragrant nose of rich wild berries, ripe cherries and a hint of dark chocolate, with fine floral components, precious wood and light spice. Shows itself on the palate with great melting and tightly interwoven tannins, very powerful, pure and clear in the course, very long, still young." Falstaff

The grapes for the "Suolo" Brunello selection come from the vineyard of the same name and from the estate's oldest vines. They are 65 years old and lie at an altitude of 320 metres on soils of clayey-limestone marl rich in skeletons and fossils. It is the ideal terroir to fully express the character of the old Sangiovese Grosso clones and gives the wine an acidic, spicy profile. Only part of the vineyard parcels are used for this label. Long ageing in 15-hectolitre Allier oak barrels and a resting period in the bottle complete it and prepare it for the market and the challenge of time. Around 5,000 bottles are bottled only in the best vintages.

The name "Vineyard of the Soil" says it all: opens with warm, earthy notes, the fruit emerges in a second wave with dried raspberries, cassis and dried cherries. The theme of earthiness runs through the entire experience and is also evoked by the powdery dryness of the tannins. There are many flavours lurking in this textured, full-bodied Brunello, including orange, mint and a hint of salty sea air. A very special and highly elegant wine that certainly needs some time in the bottle to gain depth and volume. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling ruby-garnet colour with a brightening rim. Charming and inviting nose of fresh wild raspberries and ripe cherries, along with pomegranate and tobacco. Lots of juicy fruit on the palate, again cherry and raspberry, then opens up with lots of fine-meshed, present tannins, very good tension and a long finish." Falstaff

"This wine will really come into its own with the 2019 vintage. Intoxicatingly fragrant, it offers notes of mint, fennel and tarragon infusing dark cherry and plum. Not big, but lush and expansive, a sense of baked stone underpins the deliciously tart sour cherry centre. Silky, suede-like tannins are graceful in their draw, while the acidity cleanses the mouth and is crisp. An explosion of apricot pits and juicy minerals prolong the finish." Decanter

"The dark Brunello di Montalcino Vigna del Suolo 2019 exudes a hint of cocoa, violet pastille and sweet sage, which complements redcurrants. Like pure velvet, the Brunello di Montalcino Vigna del Suolo slowly spreads across the palate, weighty and youthfully dense, with an abundance of mineral, dark red fruits that swirl over a steadily building wall of fine tannins. The 2019 finishes with enormous length and structure and shows fantastic balance. A hint of residual acidity refreshes the senses and balsamic herbs slowly fade away. This is a Vigna del Suolo that is made to last." Vinous

"The Argiano 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna del Suolo has an elegant, ever-changing bouquet of black fruits and a pronounced mineral signature of dusty slate and gravel. This site with 63-year-old vines is located on the picturesque cypress-lined gravel road that leads to this imposing castello (one of the greatest architectural works of Italian wine). The bouquet unfolds with tobacco leaves, lime leaves, balsamic herbs, exotic spices and a particularly fresh berry fruit that is on the verge of over-ripeness. The fruit tastes sweet, but in a delicate way, and the tannins are elegant with a dryness that is not exaggerated. This is a very nice wine." Wine Advocate

"Plenty of dark fruit flavours of black cherries, blackberries and dried herbs, followed by dried meat and sweetish tobacco notes. Medium-bodied with crisp, fine-grained tannins and strong acidity. Very precise and dense, yet beautifully balanced and savoury. Great ageing potential." James Suckling

"Iron, mineral and wild herb aromas and flavors frame the cherry and raspberry fruit in this sleek, racy red, which is harmonious and full of energy, with a long aftertaste driven by the firm structure and bracing acidity, as well as flint and stone elements. This is special." Wine Spectator

Barolo Cerequio comes from vines over 35 years old and is characterised by exuberant aromas and bright, red-coloured fruit. The bouquet is enormously opulent with ripe fruit flavours ranging from wild cherry to redcurrant. There are also original notes of jam, plum and a hint of ragout. The palate is nuanced and very deep, with enormous complexity, volume and plenty of character. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling ruby red with garnet shimmer. Beguiling aromas of redcurrant and pomegranate, followed by white truffles and a hint of mint. Blood orange and pomegranate on the palate, extremely fresh, lively and complex, elegant melting, dancing acidity, grippy, deep tannins, persistent, powerful final." Falstaff

"There is a ripe element of boysenberry or pomegranate that gives this Barolo a slightly exotic character. Hibiscus, eucalyptus and tobacco notes are also prevalent as it firms up on the fresh, chalky finish." Wine Spectator

"This Barolo opens with forward aromas of freshly halved cherries about to be added to a mix of clove, allspice and vanilla while fresh roses waft closely by. Concentrated and lush plum and mixed berries lead the way as black tea, licorice and subtle earthy flavors bide their time. Prominent tannins hold court in the midpalate but with some time all parts will be in balance." Wine Enthusiast

"Extremely fresh and perfumed with lavender, violets and fresh plums. Wonderful to smell. Full-bodied with firm and concentrated tannins that add structure and intensity. Excellent length. Fantastic for this vintage." James Suckling

"Vietti was able to buy a 9,000 square metre plot of Cerequio from Michele Chiarlo, who is arguably the king of this famous cru. And as it is a new addition to the portfolio, the Vietti team is still familiarising itself with the material. The bouquet of the Barolo Cerequio 2019, for example, reveals a fresh minty note. "This minty note was a mystery to us," says Luca Currado. "But then we realised that it was part of the Cerequio." On the palate, the wine has a firm grip, which expands and has a soft texture, but ultimately remains quite structured. Luca Currado tells me that "Cerequio is the brother and Brunate is the sister" of the La Morra Grand Cru vineyards. His wife Elena Penna adds: "We have never had two sites that are so close to each other and have such big differences." Wine Advocate

"The nose is intense, with notes of pomegranate, then wild mint, chinotto and a nice iodised finish. The flavour is spicy, with an iodine-fruity return, citrusy and enriched with mentholated notes." Luca Gardini

"The Barolo Cerequio 2019 is a worthy successor to the outstanding 2018. Aromatic and profound, the 2019 runs across the palate with remarkable depth and intensity. Crushed red berry fruit, rose petals, mint and cinnamon open up in the glass, but it is the silkiness and suppleness of the wine that impresses most. A kick of acidity and tannins puts an exclamation mark on the finish. This is a great Cerequio that soaks up all the finesse of this site and then turns up the volume. What a wine." Vinous

The "Sassorosso" vineyard is located on a rocky promontory that is separated from the rest of the mountain and has been almost completely eroded by the glacier over the centuries. It is visually distinguished by the unmistakable red colour of the ferruginous inclusions in the rock. The overlying shallow soil layer consists of clay and sand and lies on friable, metamorphic rock into which the roots can penetrate. The unmistakably elegant and mineral character of the terroir is thus particularly strongly expressed in this Nebbiolo.

Bright, transparent ruby red with a fine garnet hue. On the nose, small red fruits such as blackberry, redcurrant, cherry and raspberry complemented by fresh, floral notes of violets and roses. The palate is dense with a very tasty attack, silky tannins and a seemingly endless finish. A wine of great austerity and purity with considerable ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Aromas of cut plum, red liquorice, roasted thyme and hibiscus. Medium-bodied with velvety tannins. Straightforward with real freshness and juicy red fruits." James Suckling

"The 2019 Grumello Sassorosso is a potent wine laced with strong mineral and savory notes that lend nuance as well as energy. Sweet dried cherry, crushed rocks, sage, mint and pipe tobacco open in the bouquet, but the Sassorosso remains a bit stern and unyielding in feel." Vinous

"Spicy at first, with notes of tarry smoke, loamy earth and grilled herbs evolving into a more subtle thread that winds through flavours of plum sauce, cherry reduction, anise and graphite. Long and slightly juicy overall, with a creamy edge to the otherwise chewy tannins that firm up the spicy finish." Wine Spectator

Great Riserva from a great vintage! Seductive scent of wild berries, mint, orange peel and undergrowth. Fleshy in the drink with a firm, well-proportioned core, fantastically fresh and integrated acid wire, the fruit carpet rolls out full of cherries and small red berries in the glass. These impressive primary aromas are skilfully surrounded by notes of cedar, tobacco and sweet herbs. Sip after sip, the whole drama of this exceptional wine becomes more and more present and inevitably casts its spell. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, medium dense ruby garnet. Opens with notes of mocha, plus ripe dark cherries, some cranberry. On the palate ripe plum, plus fine clove and some cinnamon, shows polished tannin." Falstaff

"A hint of bacon and brooding richness, as if the fruit is in a straitjacket. Creamy fruit that suggests lots of new oak has come into play. The oak is a little obvious but the fruit is pure and juicy with a fantastic tannic structure. Very long and concentrated and juicy, while the gripping tannins add tactile fireworks." Jancis Robinson

"This densely woven red wine shows notes of milk chocolate and spicy oak wrapped in cherry and redcurrant fruit. It's a little quieter on the finish now, but still has vibrant fruit and length." Wine Spectator

"The La Gerla 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva gli Angeli is polished and tightly woven with plenty of silky sheen inside. The fruit shows good primary intensity with dried cherry and cassis, but this Riserva also harbours some tertiary or aged aromas of spice, leather and tar. Earthy tones, cola and wild roses blend into this fresh and elegant Sangiovese. There are some smoky oak tones that are a little aggressive at first, but they largely subside." Wine Advocate

"Inviting aromas of wild berries, baking spice, new leather and charcuterie come to the forefront. Full-bodied and elegantly structured, the smooth palate features dried cherry, baked plum, vanilla and mocha framed in fine-grained tannins." Wine Enthusiast

"Perfumed with cherries, berries and flowers. Medium-bodied with ripe fruit on the palate and undertones of pralines, nuts and nougat. Rich and delicious, yet it remains intense and concentrated. Spicy on the finish. Drinkable now, but even better from 2025." James Suckling

"The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Gli Angeli glows with remarkable depth, revealing a blend of spicy citrus peel and minty herbs that give way to an abundance of black cherries, strawberries, hints of iodine and smoke. The texture of this wine is exciting, feeling velvety and almost heavy as it strikes a wonderful balance between its vibrant acidity, tart wild berries and savoury spices that unleash on the palate. Hints of mocha combine with sour cherry and almond jam on the impressively long and classically structured final. Ultimately, the 2016 Gli Angeli is the total package. This Riserva is a single vineyard bottling from the northern vineyard of La Gerla in Montalcino, planted by Biondi-Santi in 1968." Vinous