Wines from Tuscany

The single-varietal Merlot L'Apparita 2018 is outstanding - elegance, strength of character, a remarkably fine tannin and acid structure as well as the endlessly long persistence characterise this exceptional Merlot. An oenological rarity of Tuscany and not only therefore an object of desire every year. A combination of fruity and spicy impressions on the nose, excellent fleshy taste, whose juicy, still quite concise tannin blends well with the warm body. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, intense ruby with a pronounced violet shimmer. Rich nose with notes of mulberries and black cherries, fine spicy components in the background. Shows a lot of dark fruit on the nose, then opens up with lots of tightly woven tannin in several layers, can quietly mature a bit more." Falstaff

"Black currant, black cherry, blueberry, wild herb and earth flavors are nicely displayed on the polished frame of this fluid and harmonious red, with dusty tannins lining the finish. More on the elegant side than powerful." Wine Spectator

"One of the rare instances where Merlot excels in Tuscany, this gorgeous wine opens with enticing aromas of dark-skinned berry, new leather, camphor and dark spice. Continuing where the nose left off, the elegant, delicious palate delivers cassis, ripe blackberry, licorice and crushed mint alongside the barest note of truffle. It's a world-class wine with breeding, extreme finesse and great depth. It's impeccably balanced, with a backbone of velvety tannins and fresh acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"Hard dark-chocolate aromas with blackberries and blue fruit. Pure and gorgeous. Full-bodied with gorgeous, polished tannins that are intense and powerful, yet ever so precise and together. It’s so curated and real with a great finish. One of the best merlots from Ama in a long time." James Suckling

"The 2018 L'Apparita is a total stunner. Ama's 100% Merlot is usually a wine of bombastic intensity, but the 2018 marks a departure from that style, as it is all finesse and nuance. Blackberry jam, spice, menthol and lavender are some of the aromas and flavors that open in an Apparita that dazzles with its precision and nuance. Rain at the end of August pushed out harvest and gave Marco Pallanti the ideal conditions to craft this gorgeous wine." Vinous

"This wine has earned its spot in a world of pantheons that is grande vini Italiani. The Castello di Ama 2018 L'Apparita is one of the world's greatest Merlots, and this slightly cooler growing season delivers on all the promise and pedigree that we should expect of this collectors' favorite. L'Apparita opens to an inky dark and blackish appearance, and the bouquet slowly reveals black fruit, ripe cherry, dark spice, smoke and barbecue rub. The wine's texture and finish, which is so velvety and rich, so supple and soft, is what will ultimately win you over. Indeed, this wine excels especially in terms of the elegance and fullness of the mouthfeel." Wine Advocate

Silky, open and graceful, it captivates with outstanding elegance and the finesse typical of Montalcino's northern sector. Rose petals, sweet red berries and graceful, minty notes grace the palate in a sensual, silky Brunello that exudes its class and pedigree with the first sip. The traditional Marroneto style with fine-grained tannin and subtle saltiness contrasts excitingly with the classic structure and extract sweetness. Great wine! SUPERIORE.DE

"When we tasted the wine, our little group went wow. Here, once again, the advantage of the higher-lying vineyards around the town of Montalcino becomes apparent. Alessandro Mori's vineyards lie at 400 metres above sea level. The bouquet already shows how distinguished the wine is: fine red fruit, with crisp raspberries and wild berries, plus mineral hints and red cherries. In the mouth with a lot of refinement, amazingly slender for the hot and dry year, totally relying on freshness, immensely red berry, fresh and fruity with almost delicate beginnings, firm but fine tannin. Filigree interwoven. Stands out positively with its freshness and fine style." Weinwisser

"Bright, medium-dense ruby red. Opens with emphatic spicy notes, of thyme and cardamom, then lots of juicy sour cherry. Present fruit on the palate with juicy fruit." Falstaff

"The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino wafts up with vibrancy and spunk, showing woodland berries and herbs with crushed wet stone and undergrowth in an incredibly fresh and lively expression. It’s soft and pliant upon entry, enveloping with its saturating raspberry fruits and inner spice, as mineral tension builds, giving way to sweet, elegant tannins and inner florals. The 2017 shows a more slender yet well-muscled interpretation of the 2017 vintage, but it remains remarkably pretty and balanced throughout." Vinous

"Just north of Montalcino, sitting at over 400 metres, Il Marroneto’s vineyards benefit from cooling north breezes. Proprietor Alessandro Mori maintains a generous canopy to protect the grapes from hail and, above all, sunburn. With a lightness of structure yet concentration of flavour, this is beautifully midweight in presentation. Lifted fragrances of wild broom and mandarin are countered by earthier ash and roasted chestnut nuances. There's a sweet/sour sensation to the red cherry palate, and fine, powdery tannins impart a distinguishing tactile, layered texture. A finale of gingerbread lends further intrigue." Decanter

"Alessandro Mori's Il Marroneto 2017 Brunello di Montalcino opens to a very distinguished and unique character that makes this wine easy to recognize in a lineup of Brunello. This hot and dry growing season made for more powerful aromas and sometimes riper flavors in the appellation, generally speaking. But this magically lean-bodied wine follows its own path, and the warmth of the summer seems to have cemented almost exotic aromas of bay leaf, crushed flower, campfire ash and iron ore. The wine is exceedingly silky and elegant, but instead of opulence, you get streamlined tension accompanied by lifted, immediate aromas of fruit, flowers and light spice." Wine Advocate

"All the richness of the raw home material in this impeccable reading of Brunello. Blueberries jam to the nose, touches of nutmeg and fresh thyme, then final on the brackish notes of the caper fruit. The mouthfeel has iodized tannins and a fruity finish." Luca Gardini

The Gran Selezione from the single vineyard Bellavista is rich and dark with aromas of wild cherry, smoke, liquorice, menthol and tobacco. Extremely attractive and rich on the palate, firm tannins form the backbone of this virile, potent wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"Intense, compact nose with rich notes of blackberry and dark cherry, in the background fine spicy notes, cardamom and dried ginger. Juicy and intense in attack and course, lots of cherry, some plum, fine-meshed, dense tannin in the final full pressure." Falstaff

"Camphor, dark spice, blue flower and a whiff of forest floor shape the alluring nose on this delicious red. Elegantly structured and all about finesse and flavor, the savory, focused palate delivers juicy Marasca cherry, orange zest, licorice and cassis alongside taut, ultrarefined tannins. Made with 80% Sangiovese and 20% Malvasia Nera, it's beautifully balanced, with bright acidity." Wine Enthusiast

"A rich, intense red, displaying black cherry, blackberry, menthol, iron and graphite flavors, this is polished and expressive, yet with beefy tannins lining the chalky finish. All the components are there - this just needs time." Wine Spectator

"The 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto Bellavista comes roaring out the gate with intensity and power. This is a generous and exuberant wine with dark fruit, pressed blackberry, plenty of spice and great overall dimension. It's truly gorgeous, yet I might consider a slightly shorter drinking window for this full-bodied vintage." Wine Advocate

"This is a very deep and serious Chianti Classico with bark, dark-mushroom and blackberry aromas that follow through to a full body with very polished and integrated tannins that are long and classy. A sophisticated and glorious wine. Drink in 2024 and onwards, but already very pretty." James Suckling

"The 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto Bellavista marries Sangiovese and Malvasia Nera, a combination that works so well. The Bellavista is a powerful, vertical wine endowed with explosive and tremendous energy. Like all the top wines, it needs the better part of a decade to show all it's got. Gravel, smoke, leather, licorice and scorched earth." Vinous

The vineyard of the same name has been producing a very powerful and highly individual Brunello for years and it cannot be said that this Brunello is not expressive - it is downright expressionistic in its aura and presentation! On the nose, exuberant aromas of blackcurrants, blueberries, violets, porcini mushrooms and iron. On the palate, it is complex, multi-layered, supple and harmonious, with a firm backbone of tannins that are refined and integrated. It shows outstanding length and complexity and, in the top 2019 vintage, is a very dazzling red wine characterised through and through by its extraordinary terroir and with wonderful potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Rich, round and juicy, this satiny and harmonious red sports cherry, plum, blackberry and chocolate flavors. Even the tannins are civilized and well-integrated, providing an overall charm. Expansive on the finish, with notes of mint, dusty mineral and spices." Wine Spectator

"The Brunello di Montalcino le Lucére 2019 is a dark, concentrated wine with black fruits and a very creamy side. There are aromas of coconut butter and vanilla that meet bakery flavours of croissants or pie crust. The oak ageing is considerable, but I give it good cellaring potential as it evolves, especially because there is a lot of dark primary fruit that gives it an ageing dynamic." Wine Advocate

"Black cherry, cedar and dried flowers on the nose, followed by a medium to full body with chewy tannins and a savoury finish. Lots of structure. Muscular and full-bodied, yet soft and beautiful." James Suckling

"It's full of smoky forest flavours with graphite vibes and minerality, cherry pit, heady violet and blood orange depth. On the mid palate it is very concentrated and voluminous, with fine, very precise tannins and refreshing acidity. But what impresses me most is the savoury character of this Brunello, which is built for the long haul." Decanter

A wine that is only vinified in the very best years and then presents a breathtaking beauty with each edition. In depth, purity and structure, it is the archetype of a Brunello. It beguiles with a mix of sage, rosemary, tobacco, wild flowers and cloves through to a nuanced and endless finish. It is punchy and seductive at the same time and has great personality. Chapeau! SUPERIORE.DE

"This is a late-release 2015 with extremely attractive blackberry, black-cherry and floral aromas, as well as hints of spices. Full-bodied with wonderfully integrated tannins that are polished yet powerful. Long, persistent finish, showing real purity of fruit. Try after 2023, but already impressive." James Suckling

"The Le Potazzine 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is released a year after most other Riservas hit the market (most of this winery's peers are now selling the 2016 vintage). This pretty wine is open-knit and rich, showing nice textural support. It is redolent of dried cherry, blackberry, light spice, tar and smoke. This special selection of fruit shows elegant results in this hot and sunny vintage." Wine Advocate

"The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva captivates as it slowly blossoms in the glass, but this is a wine that is truly worth waiting for. With each swirl, a bouquet of mentholated cherry, autumnal spice, shaved cedar and Tuscan dust gains amplitude and richness. The textures are undeniably elegant, communicating opulence while also stimulating the senses with salty minerals and an inner smokiness that I find wildly compelling. An intense array of red currants, licorice and savory spice fills the senses and translates directly to the finale, where regal tannins saturate, promising a remarkably long life. Only 3,000 bottles of this beauty were produced." Vinous

The wine from the single vineyard of the same name is probably the most opulent of the selection lines of the house. The bouquet is almost brush-stroke wide with a presence of ripe fruit, spices and hints of crushed rock. On the palate it is impressively smooth and full, with a whole bouquet of dark fruit aromas flanked by firm, structured tannins. The Merlot portion gives it additional depth and power. SUPERIORE.DE

" Seductive nose of maraschino cherries, vanilla, lilac; full-bodied entry, perfectly rounded texture with tight tannins, great length and red-berry freshness, also fine leather and tobacco notes. Of great complexity." Vinum

"Deep, dark ruby with a violet tint. Opened with emphatically earthy notes, after tobacco and truffle, then lots of elderberry and blackberry. Firm and gripping tannin, shows a lot of power, full-bodied, after elderberries, in the final a bit rough, still needs storage. Falstaff

"This aromatic Chianti Classico features violet, black cherry, leather, earth and spice flavors. A laser of bracing acidity and muscular tannins runs underneath. The balance tips toward the tannins today, but put this in your cellar for another few years. Sleek and very long." Wine Spectator

"From the small vineyard facing Castello di Ama from the north, the 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto la Casuccia shows a dark and hearty side with rich fruit that flows steadily from the bouquet. Like the other new releases from this iconic estate, this wine shows a pretty earthy note that is particularly well defined and fine-tuned in this vintage. The fruit is broad, thick and horizontal. This is a Sangiovese painted with broad brush strokes. It'll stand another decade or two, or open it sooner with a pappardelle al cinghiale." Wine Advocate

"The 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto La Casuccia is rich, sensual and inviting, as it so often is. The addition of Merlot to Sangiovese yields a Chianti Classico built on textural resonance, with silky tannins, soft curves and tons of sheer allure. The 2016 won't be ready to drink anytime soon, but it is unquestionably a great wine in the making. Succulent dark cherry, red plum, menthol, licorice, cloves and new oak infuse the creamy, voluptuous finish." Vinous

"Mature black-skinned berry, rose, tilled soil and a balsamic whiff of eucalyptus shape the nose. The bright, elegant palate has energy, tension and depth, delivering ripe wild cherry, red plum, licorice and crushed botanical herb. Taut, fine-grained tannins lend polished support while fresh acidity keeps it balanced. A gorgeous wine." Wine Enthusiast

Mazzei's top wine Siepi is not only an outstanding Tuscan wine every year, but also a 6-hectare vineyard in the middle of dense oak forests with an ideal altitude and a unique climate. The sunshine is optimal throughout the day and a constant breeze from the west prevents excessive heat and creates a mild, Mediterranean climate. The oak forests also provide an ideal protective barrier against extreme weather conditions. Rocky soils of marl, limestone and clay from the Pliocene period ensure a special balance of elements in this geological complex.

Siepi's greatest strength every year is its pronounced sense of integration and harmony, and this excellent 2021 vintage is no exception. The bouquet is fresh and lively with lots of wild cherry, spices, wild rose, lilac and lavender. On the palate, it delights with soft fruit and delicate spice and shows an increasingly fluid personality in the glass, gradually revealing a beautiful sequence of background flavours. The 2021 edition is already very elegant, even polished, but Siepi connoisseurs know that it will need at least five more years of careful bottle ageing before this monumental red begins to show its true greatness. SUPERIORE.DE

"Massive, viscous colour. The Siepi 2021 has a youthful aroma of fine, fresh wood, offensive and brash, with fleshy intensity and limited depth. Its actual flavour has not yet really come through. It is rich and melting, round and lush, sweet and wood-accentuated in the mouth. It is less dense in its core flavours and lives more from its melting, lively flow, which asserts itself clearly and straightforwardly." Weinwisser

"Rich, deep dark ruby violet colour. Compact and dense nose, showing notes of redcurrant, blackberry, ripe cherry, fresh herbal notes in the background. Lots of polished, very well-integrated tannins on the palate, smooth and long finish, juicy and fine melting." Falstaff

"The 2021 Siepi opens with sweet fruit flavours of cooked cherry, blackberry jam, cinnamon and nutmeg. This full-bodied wine is supple and very smooth in the mouthfeel, and its flavour profile is rich and all-encompassing. This wine is balanced and seamless, and the 2021 vintage is certainly one of the best editions of Siepi we've seen to date." Wine Advocate

"The 2021 Siepi is impressive. Blue/purple fruit, lavender, spice, menthol and mocha are beautifully balanced. This lush, juicy blend of Sangiovese and Merlot is, as so often, a real charmer. The 2021 is exceptionally elegant and polished, certainly one of the best editions of recent times. Nevertheless, I feel that the Siepi would benefit from longer ageing in wood or in glass, as it is coming to market too early for a wine of its size and potential." Vinous

"Intense blackcurrant on the nose, baked and ripe, so expressive and inviting with little hints of liquorice and tar. Supple, generous, juicy and bright, this 50/50 Sangiovese Merlot is so well crafted and harmonious - rich, broad and full in the mouth, it runs with life and energy and such underlying vigour. You can feel the intensity and sculpting that is evident here. This wine is no wallflower, but it is so neat and beautifully presented. I love the tannins, massive but controlled and a perfect counterpart to the fresh and ripe red and black fruits with black pepper, tar, tobacco and bitter orange as well as soft floral notes. The brightness is a great match for the depth and complexity delivered by a nuanced glass of wine that has so much to say. I love the tannins and the sense of direction and confidence. It's still in its brooding, flamboyant, youthful phase with plenty of warmth and spice, but it's a beauty." Decanter

"An opulent yet exciting young red wine with the character of blackberries, violets and black olive skin. Full-bodied. But with so much energy and focus. Lasts for minutes. Best opened after 2028." James Suckling

Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Madonna del Piano 2015 is a huge, outstanding wine. Waves of vibrant, intensely fragrant fruit appear on the palate, supported by the firm, broad tannins of the plump, very rich vintage. Violets, spices, new leather and liquorice unfold in the glass, clean mineral notes frame an eruption of dark cherries, plums and camphor in a finish that fills the palate endlessly. Madonna 2015 is well on its way to becoming one of Vincenzo Abbruzzese's very great wines! SUPERIORE.DE

"There’s a mentholated freshness to the 2015 Madonna del Piano Riserva which draws you in, as a seductive display of crushed black cherries, cinnamon, sage and sweet white smoke holds your attention firm. It’s silky in feel yet far more lifted than expected, with wave after wave of tart wild berries and savory spices which drench the palate in concentrated fruit, as if you can feel the skins, pips and all. Just when you think that the 2015 will release you from its structured clenches, its coating of grippy tannins comes forward, and it remains throughout the tension-filled and purple-tinged finale. This will require many years of cellaring to reveal its charms, coming across as far more structured than most other Brunello Riservas from the vintage; yet there’s plenty of fruit to keep pace throughout the wine's evolution." Vinous

"The Valdicava 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Madonna del Piano is a lovely wine that finds nice balance between power and elegance. You get the character of the fruit with dried cherry, cassis and cranberry and delicate nuances of grilled herb, cola and blue flower. The bouquet also shows lots of balsam intensity with root beer and rosemary oil. These two sides of the wine reach equilibrium, and the only thing needed here is more cellar aging time. There is a point of youthful tannic astringency that needs to unwind and integrate." Wine Advocate

"Cherry, berry and wild herb flavors mark this linear red, which is pure and vibrant, with refined tannins and bright acidity underlying it all. The mineral-tinged finish is fresh and long, with fine harmony in the end." Wine Spectator

"Spectacular aromas of crushed fruit, plums, sous bois, porcini and black truffles. Decadent year, but fresh. Full-bodied, dense and linear on the palate, yet so much in balance and refined with incredible depth and consistency. The savory and juicy finish, with vivid acidity and fruit, is eye-opening. Greatest ever." James Suckling

Classic Sangiovese interpretation with a wonderful balance of elegance and power. Very firm, dark fruit, fine-grained tannins and a well-dosed acid wire. As it progresses, it opens up with a wealth of aromas of forest fruits, violets and freshly ploughed earth. A magical wine with an already recognisable longevity and great potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"Quite pure, concentrated and focussed, but at the same time balanced, with mineral notes of earth and a hint of tobacco. Elegant and polished on the palate, with an almost fully integrated, tangy acidity. Long and a little mouth-filling and concentrated. Seems softer than in previous vintages, but no less robust." Jancis Robinson

"The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino is a model of grace and refinement, with exotic spice nuances that evaporate to reveal wild strawberries, rosemary, dried flowers and worn leather. For the vintage, it's incredibly airy and refined, with a wave of savoury red fruits pouring over a core of zesty acidity as the 2017 slowly fades notes of liquorice and bitter cherry. I am impressed, especially considering the extended barrel ageing practised at Biondi Santi." Vinous

"A fresh, energetic red wine with flavours of black cherries, blackberries, iron, rosemary and stones. It shows assertive tannins that accompany the long finish, but this is all about balance and definition. Shows fantastic length." Wine Spectator

"Medium carmine-garnet colour, violet reflections, broad ochre rim. Fine nuances of undergrowth and forest floor, delicate earthy-leafy nuances, red berry touch, delicate hints of cassis, cherries, some macchia. Taut, fine fruit sweetness of preserved berries and cherries, elegant texture, present, integrated tannins, fresh acidity, mineral on the finish, salty aftertaste, very good length, lingers for a very long time, already drinkable, but has by no means reached its first drinking maturity, sure maturity potential. Reflects the Biondi Santi DNA in a beautiful way." Falstaff

"A delicately sweet note of fresh summer cherry is a harbinger of burgeoning complexity and a very articulate bouquet that opens quickly in the glass. The immediately appealing fruit is a feature of the 2017 growing season, which saw above-average temperatures and drought throughout the summer. The resilient Brunello di Montalcino 2017 accepts these challenges without overdoing it. The wine's famous acidity and small berry nuances remain intact. The tannins are silky and the wine's flavours fade slowly even after the last sip." Wine Advocate

"The flavours of sweet berries, orange peel, cedar, bark and wild flowers transition into a medium to full body, with linear and fine tannins and a crisp undertone. For a 2017, it is very subtle and fresh. Crisp and lively. It is refined and acidic. Try it after 2026." James Suckling

The Nobile Riserva, a cru from the historic Sotto Casa vineyard, deserves a place in the list of the best, with its delicate aromas of cherries and spices that set the mood for intense, flavoursome drinking pleasure. A powerful, elegant representative of its type with well-ripened fruit on the final and a delightful portion of saltiness on the aftertaste. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, radiant ruby red colour. On the nose, initially a hint of Siegallack, subtle hints of sugared cherries, slightly smoky, medium expression overall. Creamy fruit on the palate enveloped by slightly broad tannins, with a fine dry finish." Falstaff

"The 2019 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Riserva Sotto Casa is dusty and floral. A whiff of crushed rocks gives way to dried roses, cedar shavings and musky red currants. This is a powerful and complex effort, youthfully dense and poised, with silken textures and masses of tart wild berries underscored by saline minerals and spice. This flexes its tannic muscle through the finale, structured and coating the entire palate, as a beguiling sour citrus note adds contrast. The Sotto Casa is the only Vino Nobile at Boscarelli that blends international varieties with Sangiovese." Vinous

"This has a rather glossy, deep ruby hue and the orange tinge is not even developed yet. Very youthful and a lot less savory than most of the Boscarelli offerings showing the usual mineral attraction, but this comes with a little more fruit, spices and even plushness. Deep cherry, plum, mussel and oyster shell characters on the nose follow through to a full-bodied palate drenched with firm, chalky tannins. The impressive structure ends in a neat, mineral finish. Almost a bit embryonic now despite its more eclectic and probably less traditional style. Wait two to three years before opening the bottle." James Suckling

The small vineyard of Pietrabona on the island of Giglio, which is over 80 years old, yields an Ansonica of outstanding quality, and so Bibi Graetz decided to vinify the grapes separately in small batches. The vines stand on a bed of rocks and granite sand not 50 metres from the sea, and so a wine is produced that convinces with a subtle scent of ripe oranges, fine spiciness and minerality. SUPERIORE.DE

"Bright, light golden yellow. Initially shows notes of flint and honeydew melon, then lots of camomile, slightly iodine-salty components in the background. Shows very good tension on the palate, nice play between salty components and ripe yellow fruit, spreads well, freshness and lots of pressure on the final." Falstaff

"The dried fruits of pineapple, apricot and cooked apple and peaches in the nose are very attractive. It’s full and dense with lots of fruit and a phenolic and structured texture. Feels more like a red than a white. Salty undertone. Tuscan in personality. Ansonica from a single vineyard on Giglio Island." James Suckling

Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Poggio al Vento from the dream 2015 vintage is dark, rich and seductive. It smells of ginger and hints of leather and tobacco before opening up further to reveal black cherry fruit and wild berries. Although cool and supple, it has a velvety texture that strikes a wonderful balance between the tart blackberries and exotic spices within. Its complexity is remarkable: sometimes sweet, sometimes sour, framed by youthful grippy tannins and hints of cranberries, spices and subtle saltiness. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, powerful garnet red. Finely marked, fragrant nose with notes of cranberries, ripe dark cherries, some prunes and plenty of tobacco. Polished tannin on the palate, showing ripe fruit notes, with grippy tannin in many layers on the final." Falstaff

"Lustrous ruby with orange tinges. At first a tiny bit sweaty, then opening up to rich, focused cherry fruit. A palate of lush cherry fruit and sensationally balanced. The juicy fruit, lined with gravelly tannins, goes on and on." Jancis Robinson

"Lots of plum, toffee, floral and cherry aromas that follow through to a full body with ripe, round tannins that follow through to a long, gorgeous finish." James Suckling

"A powerful version, this red delivers concentrated plum, black cherry, iron and earth flavors allied to a base of muscular tannins. The balance tips to the astringent side, but it's not overbearing, with ripe fruit returning on the finish. Needs time and food." Wine Spectator

"Made with certified organic fruit, the Col d'Orcia 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Poggio al Vento is open-knit and big both in intensity and mouthfeel. This full-bodied Riserva graces us with budding tertiary notes of tobacco and cured leather, but the ripe and fundamentally very rich fruit of this vintage remains firm at its core. You also get cola, licorice and grilled rosemary. This vineyard site sees ancient soils with an important component of well-draining sand, and this helps to concentrate flavors." Wine Advocate

"The darkly alluring 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Poggio al Vento requires coaxing to unlock its aromatics from their youthful state. However, patience is rewarded, as crushed stones and ashen earth give way to red and black wild berries offset by hints of camphor and, finally, a note of sweet tobacco. Its textures are like pure silk draped across the palate, as a saturation of salty minerals settle in. Vivid notes of tart black cherry and an air of inner rose resonate throughout as fine tannins slowly clench the senses. The result is one of hulking structure yet also a potent staining of primary concentration; yet through it all, bright acids maintain supreme balance. Wow, the 2015 Poggio al Vento is a masterpiece in the making." Vinous

Rare exceptional Merlot from the west of Tuscany: Deep ruby red with violet reflections. Multi-layered bouquet with hints of wild berries and blackberries, ripe cherries, but also liquorice and tobacco notes. Very structured and at the same time lively on the palate. The silky tannins underline the filigree minerality until the seemingly endless finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"This lush, silky red is introduced by deep aromas of black cherry and blackberry, with hints of chocolate, coffee, vanilla and minerals that develop into a long, complex aftertaste. Despite its richness, it also has finesse and detail." Wine Spectator

"Bright, rich ruby, Intense and fine nose with notes of blackberry, wild raspberry, then mint and Mediterranean herbs. On the palate marked by hearty, dense tannin, entwined with lots of sweet melting, fine spice on the back end, finishes on sweet tobacco, but also needs some time." Falstaff

"Aromas of cigar box, black plums, cherries, mocha and toasted walnuts. Full-bodied with firm, taut and chewy tannins. Structured and deep with sophisticated oak spice character. Still tight at the moment. Yet very fine and elegant. Finesse for Redigaffi. Give it a few years to show even more. Try it in 2026." James Suckling

"The nose begins sweet and classic, like berries dipped in vanilla and chocolate, and then expands to include a riot of wild herbs. On the palate, the interplay between chocolaty berries and savory undertones continues before a burst of acidity and tannins that are so fine-grained and smooth they're almost ethereal. It's magical now but no doubt will be even better after some time." Wine Enthusiast

"The Tua Rita 2020 Redigaffi is the winery's top wine, made from Merlot. The bouquet smells of dark fruits, dried apricots, spices, leather and ashes from the campfire. You can taste the special fullness and concentration in this full-bodied red wine. On the palate, the Redigaffi is soft and approachable with rich layering and texture." Wine Advocate

This Merlot is so strictly limited that it is not even on the winery's official price list. The grapes for this exceptional Merlot, bottled exclusively in only a few magnum bottles, come from vines of the winery that are over 30 years old. Actually vinified only for our own consumption and good friends, we managed to obtain a few bottles for our customers.

On the nose, fresh notes of crisp red fruits, along with balsamic notes reminiscent of the vegetation of this upper part of the Maremma. The body is decisive, enveloping, rich and at the same time boundlessly elegant. This Merlot impresses with its precise response. The refreshing acidity gives it the tools for a long life. Happy the one who can call a bottle of it his own. SUPERIORE.DE

"This wine is only released in magnum bottles and I tasted number 66 of only 246 bottles produced. The organic and biodynamic Ampeleia 2018 Merlot Empatia shows a beautiful richness of fruit and concentration, certainly with weight but without heaviness. The wine remains bright and buoyant thanks to black cherry, smoked tobacco and spice. There are also notes of liquorice, green olives and Mediterranean herbs. The vines are rooted in volcanic soils from an ancient crater." Wine Advocate

"Unique aromas of blackberries, lavender, sage, coriander and ink. Complex on the nose. Full-bodied with creamy tannins and beautiful fruit density. The length and polish of this wine are, as always, very impressive. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Only available in the magnum bottle. Drinkable now, but best from 2025." James Suckling

"The 2018 Empatia is 100% Merlot bottled only in magnum. A wine of presence and textural intensity, the 2018 dazzles right out of the gate. Black cherry, cloves, leather, licorice and incense meld together in this deep, sumptuous wine. This is impressive." Vinous

Beautifully matured Cabernet Sauvignon that underlines its rich, fleshy fruit with graphite and liquorice aromas. Its broad, full and balanced flavour, polished tannins and fruity, elegant style build up to a long, balsamic finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Dark, bright ruby red with a brightening rim. On the nose, rich pepper, cassis, cranberry, leather and undergrowth. Hearty and impetuous on the palate, stretches very powerfully across the tongue, gripping, with rich pressure, a balsamic touch and minimal dryness on the finish." Falstaff

"A vibrant, concentrated red, offering black cherry, black currant, iron, tobacco and spice aromas and flavors. Though dense, this is also fluid, with excellent balance and length." Wine Spectator

"Olmaia has developed into a brand in its own right. The wine emphasises the potential of Cabernet Sauvignon in this part of Tuscany, an area where Sangiovese is grown almost exclusively. The 2016 Sant'Antimo Cabernet Olmaia reminds us of the importance of diversity in a monoculture, which allows us to better understand the potential of a growing area. This wine has a dark colour and a dense concentration of colour. It is certainly broad and full-bodied, but it transcends the senses with nuanced grace. Black and purple fruits segue into earthy tobacco, cured leather and dark spices. These flavours are particularly finely tuned in this classic vintage." Wine Advocate

Michele Satta's Viognier is sophisticated and seductive, making it the object of desire for wine lovers all over the world. Its inimitable bouquet of apricot and peach exudes an almost cheerful floweriness. Maturation in a combination of cement, oak and amphorae gives this expressive, flavoursome white wine a beautiful note. A dense white wine that spreads out softly on the palate with a lovely salty freshness and a long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"Pale straw yellow with brightening edges. Inviting aroma of ripe and dried stone fruit, honeydew melon and citrus. Full-bodied, soft on the palate with a great acidity structure and a lingering, juicy final." Falstaff

"The wine opens with a captivating aroma of white peach and light notes of quince and honey, leading to a structured and creamy palate with sapid, mineral length." Decanter

"Attractive aromas of ripe pears and white peaches with undertones of dried sage, walnuts and crushed stone. Medium to full-bodied, fresh and juicy with clean, penetrating acidity. Crisp. Notes of citrus blossom and lemon pith with a mineral finish." James Suckling

"Michele Satta is one of Italy's greatest ambassadors for the Viognier grape, which he has all but single-handedly brought to this part of the Tuscan coast. His 2022 Giovin Re is immediately generous and rich with honey, baked apple, a hint of spicy saffron and an elegant mineral note in the background. The acidity is very pleasant with tart lemon and whitecurrant flavours that blend into the wine's very silky finish. The wine is matured in a combination of barriques, amphorae and cement. Production is limited to 4,000 bottles. This vintage is particularly delicious." Wine Advocate

The third vintage of Dievoles Gran Selezione presents itself dark, deep and with wonderfully powerful cherry and blackberry notes. The palate is very defined and precise with an archetypal interpretation of the grape variety. Everything is in the right place here, the balance and clarity impressing with every sip. The finish is of terrificlength and depth. This is Sangiovese at its purest, with endless energy and expression. SUPERIORE.DE

"Stylish bouquet of red berries and flowers; juicy on the palate, the tannic acid framework balanced, engaging evolution with polish and fresh fruit but also perfectly placed balsamic nuances through to the final." Vinum

"Fresh red fruit and a hint of mint, spice and tea on the nose. Refined palate with lots of powdery tannins giving texture and frame. Clean finish with a salty touch." Decanter

"The 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna di Sessina shows a streamlined personality with pinpoint aromas of wild berries, forest floor and dried blackberries. This wine is vertical, focused and even a little edgy in personality thanks to its firm tannins and fresh acidity. There is a brief ripeness in the mid-palate, but overall the wine is very balanced." Wine Advocate

"Bright aromas of flowers, citrus, strawberries and cherries follow a full body with bright, very lively tannins and zesty acidity. Energetic on the finish. Very clean and bright. A wine for the cellar, although it is already drinking wonderfully." James Suckling

"Pervasive aromas recall cherry, raspberry, iron and sage in this red wine, while rich fruit flavours balance a backbone of assertive tannins. It reverberates from start to finish, ending with a long aftertaste of fruit, earth and tobacco. Still firm, but harmonious overall." Wine Spectator

Prima Pietra is the flagship wine of the small Maremma branch of Castiglion del Bosco. The grapes come from what is probably the highest vineyard site on the Costa Toscana, 450 metres above sea level. Bright ruby red in colour with violet hues. Inviting spicy notes on the nose, finely characterised, with lots of dark berries and some dark chocolate, very profound. Full of tension on the palate, shows good density, with lots of fine-meshed tannins, polished, but also juicy, present fruit. Very precise progression into the long finish. SUPERIORE.DE

Rocca di Frassinello, an elegant, very tightly woven wine with dark aromas of blackberry and blueberry, smoke and leather, flanked by a light sea breeze and hints of the reddish Maremma soils. Fascinatingly powerful palate, muscular stature, straightforward but complex, long and wide on the finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"A rich, fruity red with plum, chocolate and walnut character. It’s full-bodied with lots of round tannins and a savory finish." James Suckling

"The headline wine from Rocca di Frassinello is this hearty blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. It represents a selection of the best fruit from across the estate. The 2018 Maremma Toscana Rocca di Frassinello is a darkly concentrated expression with dark plum, bitter chocolate, spice, leather and cured tobacco. This is a very concentrated and savory expression that draws out the richness and the textural structure of your textbook Tuscan red." Wine Advocate

"The 2018 Rocca di Frassinello is a bold, exotic wine. Ripe red cherry, kirsch, cinnamon and rose petal are all kicked up in this flamboyant Maremma red. Plush fruit and silky tannins add to its considerable appeal. Hints of sweet pipe tobacco, cedar and mint appear over time, adding striking inner perfume and sweetness." Vinous

Dievoles Gran Selezione Vigna Sessina is dark, deep and with wonderfully powerful cherry and blackberry flavours. Very defined and precise on the palate with an archetypal interpretation of the grape variety. Everything is in the right place here, the balance and clarity impresses with every sip. The finish has terrificlength and depth. This is Sangiovese in its purest form with infinite energy and expression. SUPERIORE.DE

"Seems a little cheesy with its "sugary" fruit and sweetness, but can please with the juicy vein and the robust tannin as well as the fine acidity and lets the wood resonate skilfully in the background." Weinwisser

"From a vineyard 420 metres above sea level: profound bouquet of red berries, lilacs and herbs; juicy on the palate, beautifully polished, supple tannins and crisp acidity, fruity and spicy finish. Successful." Vinum

"Medium ruby red with first orange-coloured reflections. A little dusty, probably from the oak, with shy, fragrant raspberry fruit underneath. With aeration, the nose becomes finer and more concentrated, with a hint of iron. The palate is elegant and delicate, with plenty of freshness." Jancis Robinson

"Sessina is a 5.5-hectare, south-facing vineyard on Macigno (sandstone soil), but with a limestone vein running through it. It shines in the fresh 2019 vintage - it is the best bottling of this wine that I have tasted. It has a lively aroma of mint, sage and a hint of chocolate. The dark plum core is ripe yet crisp, with tannins that are gently textured and grip in all the right places. Refined and elegant, but not without depth, it offers a tantalising interplay of warm Mediterranean balsamic notes with cooler forest tones. Delicious." Decanter

"Polished and pretty nose of dried flowers, cloves, mocha, dried cherries and chocolate orange. It is medium-bodied with firm tannins. Beautiful freshness and balance, with a long and elegant finish." James Suckling

"The organic Dievole 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna di Sessina is a true beauty, offering elegance and power in two ways in this vintage. There are plenty of black fruit flavours that delicately fade into crushed stone, spices and grilled herbs. The winery opts for fermentation in cement and rapid ageing in oak for about a year. These steps ensure intact primary aromas and the wine is characterised by energy and lively flavours." Wine Advocate

Messorio has been undisputedly one of Italy's best and rarest Merlots since the mid-1990s. Soft, rich, elegant, refined and never overdone. On the nose, ripe fruit, coffee, graphite and French oak. Structured and balanced, Messorio fascinates the international wine world every year with a clarity and length that is unparalleled. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, intense ruby with violet glints. Opens with notes of forest floor, cedar wood and pine needles, then blueberry and blackberry, inviting. Very juicy, lots of dark fruit, opens with fine-meshed, very well-placed tannin, shows good drinking flow, juicy, very long finish." Falstaff

"Bright cassis, straw and graphite on the nose - all are the more overt characters typical of Bolgheri's solar Merlot. The concentrated fruit is dense and fleshy on the palate, with an oaky, slightly chalky and austere character as well as velvety tannins and a graceful finish of cedar. Assertive yet integrated acidity balances the alcohol. Great ageing potential." Decanter

"Le Macchiole is always distinguished by its deadly balance, and the Messorio is no exception. Cherries, cranberries, wild herbs and earth on the nose continue on the palate before pepper, charred meat and a juicy spiciness emerge on the finish. Tannins that unwind with ease and a palpable spiciness keep things exciting; a pleasure in the moment, but seeing what happens next will be worth the wait." Wine Enthusiast

"Le Macchiole's great challenge on pure Merlot, obtained with a prophetic 'subtraction' work. Black raspberry, juniper and liquorice on the nose, with small touches of nutmeg, on the palate tense-dense and juicy-savoury, with a fruity and undergrowth return." Luca Gardini

"Blackberry, oyster shell, iodine and black olive. Also some caraway and thyme. Full-bodied with a very tight palate of firm tannins and fresh, mineral blue fruits. Needs time to open up and show its true potential. Try it after 2025." James Suckling

"At this stage it is strongly marked by new oak, with vanilla and toasted spices wrapped around a core of plum, black cherry, earth and cedar. Graceful and balanced, it firms up on the lingering finish. This is all about purity of fruit, finesse and length. Decant it now or let it age for 2-3 years." Wine Spectator

"The 2019 Messorio combines the natural opulence of Merlot on the Tuscan coast with a finesse I have never seen here before. It has a lot of depth and resonance, but none of the heaviness that has been so en vogue for many years. Dark cherry, plum, spice, mocha and floral notes lead into a racy, exotic finish." Vinous

"The stunning Le Macchiole 2019 Messorio is a pure Merlot from a special 2.5 hectare parcel with a classic blend of Bolgheri soils with clay, silt, sandstone and limestone. The wine ferments in concrete and is aged in new barriques for 18 months. This beautiful wine exudes scents of cherries, blue flowers, iris roots, gravel and slate. Balanced oak tones add power and texture to the full-bodied finish." Wine Advocate

Treat yourself to a big glass or better: decant the wildly racy Il Guercio, then a dark berry mix with black cherries and a hint of dark chocolate will be in the air. On the palate, equally juicy fruit, full-bodied with fine silky tannins, elegant and finely structured, with animating acidity, very precise and animating in the long finish. Potential for many years in the cellar. A not at all loud, but highly impressive wine full of elegance and the masterpiece of the winery. SUPERIORE.DE

"Sparkling, brightening ruby with a light rim. Opens with notes of cinnamon and cloves, then lots of raspberry, some dark cherries. Silky and polished in the attack and course, fine raspberry note, very juicy, opens with fine-meshed tannin in many layers, firm pressure in the final, pithy." Falstaff

"The 2020 Il Guercio (Sangiovese) is airy, gracious and perfumed. Crushed red berry fruit, flowers, white pepper, orange zest and mint lend notable aromatic presence to this mid-weight, eccentric Sangiovese. All the elements are so nicely balanced. Il Guercio is one of the most distinctive wines in all of Chianti Classico." Vinous

"The Tenuta di Carleone 2020 Il Guercio is all Sangiovese that sees an extended skin maceration lasting five months and aging in cement vats. Fruit comes from an especially high vineyard located 700 meters above sea level, which is unusual for this area. This special wine reveals an exotic personality with layers of cumin, exotic spice and honey that frame a core of dark fruit. There is crushed white pepper over a very delicate and streamlined mouthfeel. This wine shows how closely Sangiovese can get to Pinot Noir." Robert Parker

The owner and winemaker Alessandro Mori describes himself as a "naturalista". His wines ferment spontaneously with autochthonous grape varieties and age for a long time in large old oak barrels. He lets the natural temperatures of the cellar control the refinement of the wine and uses minimal sulphur throughout. In addition to all its characteristic floral scents of roses and violets, Il Marroneto's 2018 is positively spicy with a peppery, juniper note. On the palate, it is delicately woven while offering deep flavours and good length. Clean and bright, with distinct notes of rosehip and raspberry, while refined tannins sneak up with textured chalkiness. SUPERIORE.DE

"Exciting nose with hints of freshly picked cherries, blackcurrant, tobacco, cardamom as well as Mediterranean spices and flowers. In the mouth again very gripping,
very own, exciting style, completely focused on freshness and pure-toned crispness, shows itself grippy and delicate with juicy fruit and fine spice. Must mature." Weinwisser

"Bright, medium dense ruby garnet. Appealing nose with notes of cranberries, goji berries and juicy fresh cherries. Lots of crisp fruit on the attack, unfolds very smoothly, fine sweet melt, raspberry on the final." Falstaff

"Brilliant, concentrated ruby red. Refined but still somewhat closed on the nose with spicy and mineral hints. Lots of appeal on the palate with beautiful, juicy, vibrant and concentrated cherry and raspberry fruit and hints of fruitcake. Lots of firm tannins that are still a little astringent and overpower the fruit. Long and layered finish, but still a little embryonic." Jancis Robinson

"Fresh, red fruit character with cherries and red plums and hints of gunpowder, coffee beans, spices and dried orange peel. Medium to full-bodied with firm tannins and a smooth, velvety fruit core in the mid palate. Lingering mineral note on the finish. Best after 2024." James Suckling

"Il Marroneto's 2018 Brunello embodies elegance, lightness and grace without being banal or superficial. Harvested on 5 October, it has a sweet core of red berries that provides a backdrop for cinnamon stick, sarsaparilla and violet accents to unfold. The ripe tannins are fine-grained and enveloping as the wine reaches accessible depths, and the appetising acidity begs for another sip - but not before the leisurely finish unfolds with spices and raspberries. A seamless symphony that reflects Alessandro Mori's unhurried, unforced approach to winemaking. As tempting as this wine is now, a little more patience will be rewarded." Decanter

"The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino has a charisma that makes it an absolute delight. Sweet exotic spices meet dried black cherries, dusty flowers and a hint of cloves. It is a pure delight on the palate, showing both opulent fruit and total balance and sophistication, while the sour berries are given a bracing lift by the juicy acidity. The 2018 leaves no stone unturned, rejuvenating with rounded tannins and lingering on the palate for up to a minute with a bracing burst of citrus, nuances of sweet rose and liquorice. This wine is so beautiful already, but also has the balanced structure to age beautifully, something you don't find in many Brunellos of this vintage. What a treasure." Vinous

"The Il Marroneto 2018 Brunello di Montalcino from Alessandro Mori opens with a spicy bouquet with notes of caraway and white pepper that seamlessly transition into bright cherries, blueberries and cassis. The trick with this wine is balance, as neither side is stronger than the other. More importantly, this Brunello still has life and vibrant energy. Precisely because this bottle tastes so good now, I see little reason to wait any longer." Wine Advocate

"All the richness of Il Marroneto's raw materials in this impeccable version of Brunello. Blueberry jam on the nose, then notes of cinnamon, carob and marjoram. Juicy, spicy tannins on the palate and a fruity finish." Luca Gardini

"The nose seems like a dreamy island getaway, with passion fruit for breakfast, prickly pear cocktails by the pool, violets on the dinner table, and rosewater candy waiting on the nightstand. The palate brings candied cherries and strawberries, with continued rosiness bleeding into a citrusy, spicy finish. The acidity sparks off sophisticated tannins. This wine is poised and elegant, yet also exciting." Wine Enthusiast