Chianti Classico Collection 2022

This year I asked the Consorzio Vino Chianti Classico, if their members would kindly send only the latest vintages of Chianti Classico Annata, Riserva and Gran Selezione.

My reason for this was based on the following:

1) To attempt to identify the style of wine produced in a particular area of the denomination.

2) To understand the quality of the wines in that particular region

3) To see if these new sub zones of Chianti Classico that have formed smaller associations, within the Consorzio, are in fact producing better overall quality wines bearing in mind this new ‘Co-Op’ approach through information sharing, members assistance and passing on knowledge previously held “under lock and key”.

Of course, this study is going to take some years to reach a conclusive opinion, but I get the vibe from the zones that have embraced this “working together” mantra.

This new open approach is a huge innovative step: the winemakers of Chianti Classico were historically extremely protective of their estates’ winemaking methods.

There is now a major overall will to evolve in all levels of wine production, which can only benefit all producers involved and eventually the consumers.

Most of the wines submitted were 2018 and 2019.

The weather conditions in 2019 varied but in general terms consisted of a mild winter and spring: bud break occurred when it was expected in early April. Rainfall continued throughout May which at this time had two effects, firstly it gives the plants a store of water to use up in the Summer but it also slows down growth giving a more equable maturation period. By June the weather was ‘near perfect’ and continued through July. August was mostly very hot, but not for sustained periods. A little rainfall late August was very welcome.

Due to this weather pattern, the berries were not tight on the grape bunches, leaving good spacing for aeration, therefore forestalling the possibility of rot in its various forms. Mild winds also helped the concentration of the juices. September lent a helping hand with good temperature variation between day and night which is very important for flavour and for great colour; fruit with thin skins were to be found in most areas.

The harvest started at end of September to late October.

In conclusion, this was an exceptionally good year for Chianti Classico weather wise

I am often being asked when is the best time to drink the three Chianti Classico styles?

Although it is almost impossible to put a best drinking age on most wines due to the many contributing factors: vintage quality, winemaking expertise and so on, but this is broad stroke indicator:

Annata 3/4 years after vintage

Riserva 7/10 after vintage

Gran Selezione 10/12 after vintage.

I have tasted some 50 years old Chianti Classico that are bright with plenty of life and enjoyment to bestow.

This might be a good time to take a snapshot of what is Chianti Classico. The Consorzio Vino Chianti Classico has approximately 500 members, around 350 of them bottle their own wines, there are 140 members that produce a Gran Selezione. The area of Chianti Classico is 70,000 Hectares of which ten per cent is registered for wine production. In 2019 Chianti Classico produced roughly 36 million bottles.

Latest Chianti Classico news in brief:

At last, a Chianti Classico wine has been awarded a coveted 100 Points by one of the most venerated and prolific wine critics in the world: James Suckling awarded Gran Selezione CeniPrimo 2018 from the Barone Francesco Ricasoli Estate.

Changes to regulations within the Chianti Classico Consorzio:

There are now eleven sub-zones of Chianti Classico, known as Unità Geografiche Aggiuntive or UGA, they are: Castellina, Castelnuovo Berardenga, Gaiole, Greve, Lamole, Montefioralle, Panzano, Radda, San Casciano, San Donato in Poggio and Vagliagli.

The main differences from the previous sub-zones are:

Castelnuovo Berardenga is cut into two, the western part is called Vagliagli.

Barberino Val d’Elsa and Tavernelle have joined to become San Donato in Poggio

Greve in Chianti has been split into four: Lamole, Montefioralle, Panzano and Greve.

The Consorzio members decided to highlight the historic distinct terroirs on their labels.

At present the UGA’s will only be printed on the Gran Selezione labels.

There is a strong possibility that this new labelling will extend to Riserva and Annata over the next few years.

Furthermore:

Starting from vintage 2022, the highest category of Chianti Classico namely Gran Selezione must contain 90% Sangiovese grape and, for the remaining 10%, only indigenous grape varieties such as Canaiolo, Colorino, Malvasia Nero, Mammolo, Pugnitello and Sanforte will be allowed (rather than international varieties).

Acknowledgement:

I wish to offer my thanks to the Consorzio Vino Chianti Classico for their trust and all the winemakers who have kindly sent their wines to my office in Umbria to be appraised.

Also Silvia Fiorentini, the Consorzio Vino Chianti Classico’s Marketing and Communication Manager whose continued support has been invaluable.

Tasting Notes

Antinori Peppoli CC 2019

Medium ruby red in colour. Florals are off the charts. Ripe red berries, Eastern spice, weighted minerality. Faint notes of clove and liquorice. Juicy. Tons of energy. Faint tartness on the close does not distract.

Points 90 TW

Antinori Badia a Passignano CC Selezione 2018

Intense ruby red in colour. Blackberry, dark cherry, purple florals, black pepper. Unfortunately this bottle turns out not to be showing its best.

Points 85 TW

Antinori Villa Antinori CC Riserva 2018

Ruby red in colour. Elegant and glorious bouquet of red cherry, pomegranate, dark baked plum assisted by lavender and mint notes. Silky and generous. Medium bodied with great length and purity of flavour.

Points 93 TW

Badia a Coltibuono CC 2019

Medium ruby red in colour. Elegant bouquet of dried cherry, blood orange, eucalyptus, mint, sweet tobacco and crushed rock minerality. Such poise and presence. Gently caressing the palate. Leaves with the same elegance as it arrived.

Points 93 TW

Badia a Coltibuono CC Riserva 2017

Bright ruby red in colour. Red cherry, red forest berries, clove, pipe tobacco, worn leather. Agile with great length. Graceful and subtle. Standout wine.

Points 94 TW

Badia a Coltibuono Cultus CC Riserva 2017

Intense ruby red in colour. Fresh red cherry, cranberry, golden tobacco, bitter orange peel. Exotic spice. Boisterous and super expressive. Fresh with buoyant energy. Linear finish.

Points 93 TW

Badia a Coltibuono Cultus Boni CC 2020

Deep garnet in colour. Red cherry, crushed raspberry, mint, menthol, orange peel, herbs and eastern spice. Youthful silky entry showing all things at the correct level. Promises much. Needs a year or two bottle age. Long finish.

Points 92-94 TW

Borgo Scopeto CC 2019

Medium ruby red in colour. Red cherry, wild strawberry, raspberry, orange peel, liquorice and damp earth. Soft, juicy and expressive entry, expands across mid palate leaving youthful tannins and acidity. Just needs time to come together. Very appealing.

Points 94 TW

Borgo Scopeto Vigne Misciano CC Riserva 2018

Medium ruby red in colour. Red cherry, dark plum, pomegranate, liquorice, faint eucalyptus aromatics, sweet tobacco and rose petal florals. Light textured, showing poise and elegance. Acidity and tannin balance needs time to fully play out. Juicy and supple.

Points 93 TW

Borgo Scopeto CC Gran Selezione 2016

Tasted last year…See post on May 9th, Chianti Classico Collection 2021 (Part 1 A- H).

Points 96 TW

Cantine Guidi 1929 CC 2020

Medium garnet in colour. Potent blend of red and black berries, iron, muted menthol, bitter orange peel, liquorice and a fine dusting of cinnamon. Opens wide on the palate saturating every part with intense forward fruit, fine tannins and fresh acidity. Youthful but such poise and grace. Wow!

Points 94 TW

Cantine Guidi 1929 CC Riserva 2018

Ruby red in colour. Raspberry, baked plum and tons of dark chocolate, blood orange and cranberry. Sweet spice box and liquorice. On the palate distinctive nuances of bitter herbs and dark fruits. Fascinating juicy texture that just keeps pulsing with energy. What a wine!

Points 95 TW

Capannelle CC Riserva 2017

Ruby red in colour. Plum, currant and fig. Dark chocolate. Sweet spice. Dark cherry. Medium bodied. Palate shows a mix of sour notes, chewy tannins and sweetness from concentrated fruit. Not showing well.

Points 86 TW

Capannelle CC Gran Selezione 2016

Bright ruby red in colour. Red and black wild berries, dark plum, orange peel, liquorice, leather exotic spice, dried Mediterranean herbs and cedar notes. Rich and dense. Floats on the palate. Ultra fine tannins. Layered intensity. Compelling.

Points 94 TW

Carpineto CC 2020

Medium ruby red in colour. Red cherry, camphor, spice and liquorice. Approachable. Dense and fruity. Forward fruit does not allow much else to have a say. Pushed a little too hard maybe.

Points 87 TW

Carpineto CC Riserva 2017

Ruby red in colour. Black fruit, eastern spice, worn leather, mocha, dried forest floor. Thick and evident tannins. Very dense. Not a shy personality.

Points 87 TW

Carus Vini Baldero CC 2016

Bright ruby red in colour. Red cherry, red berries, plum, violet florals, vanilla, oaky notes. Savoury. Well balanced. Secondary nuances of black pepper and Eastern spice. Ultra fine tannins vie with perfectly pitched acidity. Lingers on the close.

Points 92 TW

Carus Vini Gaudio CC Gran Selezione 2015

Bright and intense ruby red in colour. Dark cherry, plum, blood orange. Exotic spice. Blue florals and a whiff of bitter chocolate. Rich with tons of energy. Still youthful tannins. Tangy acidity. Articulated juicy finish.

Points 93 TW

Casa di Monte Le Capitozze CC 2017

Pale garnet in colour. Dark ripe fruit, sweet tobacco, mocha, red florals, vanilla oaky notes, liquorice. Soft juicy expression with chewy tannins and tangy acidity. Tapers off at the close.

Points 89 TW

Casa di Monte Le Capitozze CC Gran Selezione 2012

Pale tawny in colour. Concentrated fruit flavour of cherry and plum. Sweet scented bouquet of brown spice, menthol and liquorice. Unpleasant mouthfeel. Rustic. Not showing well.

Points 85 TW

Casa di Monte Le Capitozze CC Riserva 2016

Pale garnet in colour. Red berry fruit, eucalyptus, liquorice and mint, tobacco. Juicy. Rounded. Tannins are crunchy but blended. Lacks direction. Into its shell.

Points 87 TW

Casa Emma CC 2019

Medium ruby red in colour. Inviting fresh bouquet of red cherry, wild forest berries, herbs, black tea, scented spice. Entry showing good weight. Succulent mouthfeel. Balanced. Integrated. Persistent long close.

Points 92 TW

Casa Emma CC Gran Selezione 2017

Medium ruby red in colour. Heady bouquet of ripe black berries and cherry, pomegranate, camphor and mint. Very lean and tight on entry. Almost bitter drying tannins with rapier acidity. Has not come together. Poor example of Gran Selezione.

Points 86 TW

Casa Emma Vignalparco CC Riserva 2017

Ruby red in colour. Mix of red and black berries, morello cherry, blood orange, liquorice, violet florals. Slight tension. Mid palate tends to pucker with dryish tannins and a line of nervous acidity. Tapers off at the close.

Points 89 TW

Casaloste CC Gran Selezione 2017

Deep ruby red in colour. Dark fruits abound, pipe tobacco and orange peel. The fruit just pumps through the veins of this wine. So much to offer. Complex. Tons of depth and intensity.

Points 93 TW

Casaloste CC Riserva 2018

Intense ruby red in colour. Dark cherry, red and black wild berries, leather, damp forest floor, menthol notes. Polished palate. Traces of vivid acidity are vanishing. Fine tannins and shell minerality are assisting the rich textural structure. Need a year or two to complete its cycle.

Points 93 TW

Castellinuzza CC 2018

Pale ruby red in colour. Red cherry, balsamic notes, liquorice, menthol, blood orange, dried Mediterranean herbs. Clean fresh mouthfeel. Lightly bodied. Soft textures. Sour cherry and slight dryness coming of mid palate.

Points 90 TW

Castellinuzza CC Gran Selezione 2017

Pale ruby red in colour, Red fruits, liquorice, balsamic notes, leather, puff of pipe tobacco smoke. Underbrush. Juicy. All things in the right place. Linear finish. Showing well.

Points 93 TW

Castellinuzza CC Riserva 2017

Pale garnet in colour. Sweet red cherry, tangerine peel, violet florals, menthol, liquorice. Soft entry showing faint raspberry cassis and blood orange. Juicy. Pleasant mouthfeel.

Loiters on the close.

Points 91 TW

Castelli del Grevepesa Castelgreve CC 2020

Medium ruby red in colour. Red cherry, blackberry, liquorice, new leather, sage, faint clove spice, shell minerality. Silky soft contours. Good structure. Integrated tannins and acidity bringing balance. Fruit aromas loiter on the close. Impressive.

Points 92 TW

Castelli del Grevepesa Castelgreve CC Riserva 2018

Bright ruby red in colour. Red cherry, crushed raspberry, wild strawberry, vanilla oaky notes, golden tobacco, cedar and faint aromas of bitter chocolate. Some menthol notes with a sharp edge. A touch under full bodied. Agile with great length.

Points 92 TW

Castelli del Grevepesa Clemente VII CC 2019

Medium ruby red in colour. Heady bouquet of black fruit, liquorice, humus, pipe tobacco, worn leather and balsamic notes. Savoury. Damp forest floor and tart cherry complete secondary nuances. Extremely muscular and serious.Comes up a little short on the back end.

Points 90 TW

Castelli del Grevepesa Clemente VII CC Riserva 2018

Medium ruby red in colour. Blackberry, blackcurrant, dark plum, menthol, liquorice, pipe tobacco. Not short of gravitas. Brooding and sumptuous. Chewy tannins.

Savoury and earthy. If you like non compromising Chianti Classico, this is for you.

Points 92 TW

Castelli del Grevepesa Clemente VII CC Gran Selezione 2017

Ruby red in colour. Red cherry, crushed strawberry, liquorice, vanilla, white smoke, dry leather and iron. Oaky notes take some of the pleasure away. Irregular drying tannins and acidity balance. Has depth but comes across with too many rough edges.

Points 87 TW

Castello Della Paneretta CC 2019

Ruby red in colour with purple undertones. Red cherry, dark forest fruit, Eastern spice, balsam, damp forest floor. Medium bodied. So expressive of its terroir. Balanced. Fine tannins vie with fresh clean acidity. Needs a little bottle age.

Points 93 TW

Castello della Paneretta CC Riserva 2018

Medium ruby red in colour. Beguiling bouquet of black cherry, wild strawberry, mint, liquorice, faint aromas of cake spice. Secondary nuances of forest floor, dried mushroom, and sweet tobacco. Glorious textural depth with distinctive energy. Complex and layered minerality. Medium bodied. Alluring.

Points 95 TW

Castello della Paneretta Torre a Destra Riserva CC Gran Selezione 2016

Intense ruby red in colour. Compelling bouquet that is hard to draw back from. Rich black fruits, camphor, orange peel, liquorice, Morello cherry, vanilla and balsamic notes. Saturates the palate with stunning depth, energy and volume. Layered intensity and tension. Wild and savoury.

Points 95 TW

Castello di Albola CC 2019

Ruby red in colour with garnet undertones. Wild berries, baked dark plum, blue florals, clove notes. Tight and polished. Close knit tannins. Vivid acidity. Needs to relax. Slightly nervous style. Persistent finish with youthful energy.

Points 91-93 TW

Castello di Albola CC Riserva 2018

Ruby red in colour. Red cherry, cedar, orange peel, dried violet florals, black pepper, faint camphor notes and orange peel.Rounded textures abound. Integrated tannin and acidity. Richness goes hand in glove with structure. Seamless and persistent close.

Points 93 TW

Castello di Albola Santa Caterina CC Gran Selezione 2018

Medium ruby red in colour. Red fruit, sweet pipe tobacco, blue flower aromatics, sweet Eastern spice. Fruit flavours in bold print. Absorbing display of textural wealth. Chewy tannins will subside under the weight of fruit and fine acidity. A wine of its terroir.

Points 94+ TW

Castello di Albola Solato CC Gran Selezione 2018

Intense bright ruby red in colour. Ripe red cherry, red and black forest berries, mentholated herb notes, dark spice nuances. Golden pipe tobacco. Vivid acidity.

Palate is so polished, yet so youthful in its engagement. Nothing out of place here. Give it 3/4 years to come together. Outstanding.

Points 96+ TW

Castello di Ama CC Ama 2020

Ruby red in colour. Black cherry, black wild berries.

Shows harmony with balanced tannin and acidity structure, Savoury. Focused. Good showing. (Second tasting of this wine)

Points 93 TW

Castello di Ama San Lorenzo CC Gran Selezione 2018

Bright ruby red in colour with dark undertones. Black cherry, blackberry, liquorice, brown spice. Medium bodied. Intense.Terroir driven. Silky tannins stand together with fresh racy acidity. Persistent close. (Third tasting of this wine)

Points 96 TW

Castello di Ama Montebuoni CC Riserva 2019

Intense ruby red in colour. Red cherry, blackberry, violet, mocha, puff of eucalyptus, liquorice and black tea notes on the close. Fantastic length and balance. Vibrant.

Points 95 TW

Castello di Cacchiano CC 2019

Bright ruby red in colour. Dried white cherry, redcurrant, cranberry, liquorice, blood orange. Faint rose petal and hibiscus. Clean entry, layers of nuances including complex minerality. Inviting closure juicy and intense.

Points 91 TW

Castello di Cacchiano CC Riserva 2018

Deep ruby red in colour. Red cherry, redcurrant, raspberry, faint notes of stem ginger, clove, violet florals and menthol. Entry is full of energy and layered. Racy from the start. Great balance. Medium bodied. Persistent, juicy close.

Points 93 TW

Castello di Meleto CC 2019

Pale purple in colour. Crushed dry raspberry, wild strawberry, star anise, faint clove, liquorice, dry leather, blackberry and red florals. Cool entry introduces waves of ripe delicate fruit, held in place with translucent mix of acidity, tannins and minerality. Tapers slightly at the close, but does not detract in any way.

Points 93 TW

Castello di Meleto CC Riserva 2018

Medium purple with deep garnet undertones. Blackberry, blueberry, dark plum, violet florals, liquorice, baking spice aromas, humus and black olive. The nuances in this wine would fill a chapter! Full of dazzling character. Intense display of Sangiovese.

Points 94 TW

Castello di Meleto Poggiarso CC Gran Selezione 2018

Bright medium purple in colour. Blackberry, dry blackcurrant, dark plum, dried blue and red floral aromatics, damp forest floor, humus, faint cigar box aromas. Cedar and orange peel. Complex minerality leads a juicy mid palate full of spicy elegant racy dark fruit. Fantastic length and balance.

Points 95 TW

Castello di Monsanto CC Riserva 2019

Deep ruby red in colour. The bouquet is totally beguiling, it keeps drawing you back. A potent fruit compote of blackberry, blackcurrant and baked dark plum, eucalyptus, dark purple florals and vanilla. Showing opulence at every turn. Utterly compelling. Covers the palate at glacier pace, then opens to give a glimpse of inner joys: including balance and textural depth.Tannins and acidity are on a final lap of integrating. And whilst we are talking laps, the finish goes on a marathon. Take a bow!

Points 96-98 TW

Castello di Monsanto CC 2020

Bright ruby red in colour. Red and black berry fruits vie with sweet spice box, liquorice, clove, new leather and pipe tobacco. Floral aromatics of violet and rose. A line of youthful acidity leads the mid palate and is greeted with structure, fresh tannin and shell led minerality. Superabundance of layered joy to be found on the close. This needs a least 3/4 years to start to freely express itself.

Points 94+ TW

Castello di Monsanto Il Poggio CC Gran Selezione 2017

Pale ruby red in colour. Red cherry, cranberry, plum, blood orange, liquorice, eucalyptus and black pepper. Fresh clean inviting entry, saturates the palate with an energetic display. So compact. Outstanding finesse and balance. Primary flavours on the close keep returning. Impressive, especially for 2017

Points 94 TW

Castello di Radda CC 2019

Medium garnet red in colour. Red and black berry fruits, crushed spring flowers, liquorice, orange peel and menthol. Inviting soft textural entry. Juicy. Plush tannins. Extra kick of mid palate depth. Hits all the right notes.

Points 95 TW

Castello di Radda Vigna Il Corno CC Gran Selezione 2016

Intense ruby red in colour. Dark cherry, baked plum, wild black berries, subtle spice notes, liquorice. Precise. Ultra fine tannins vie with fresh acidity. Balanced.Intense display of Sangiovese.

Points 94 TW

Castello di Querceto CC 2020

Medium ruby red in colour. Stewed plum, strawberry, pipe tobacco, liquorice, fresh herbal notes and orange peel. Warm entry. Juicy. Rounded. Youthful, but has come together. Lingers on the finish.

Points 91 TW

Castello di Querceto CC Riserva 2019

Bright ruby red in colour. Dark cherry, raspberry, mocha, plum, blood orange, faint humus and a whiff of menthol. Balanced entry, showing minerality and juicy fruit. Tons of energy. Finish wearing its running shoes!

Points 93 TW

Castello di Querceto La Corte CC Gran Selezione 2019

Ruby red in colour. A melody of ripe red fruits, liquorice, Eastern spice, red and purple floral tones. Balanced structure with solid core fruit at its centre. Very elegant body. Youthful but fine tannins. Great length.

Points 94 TW

Castello di Verrazzano CC 2018

Medium ruby red in colour. Dried cherry, blackberry, camphor, mentholated herbs, and dried sage. Fresh clean entry. Balanced. Tight. Shows terroir and house style.

Points 90 TW

Castello di Verrazzano CC Riserva 2017

Deep ruby red in colour. Morello cherry, sweet scented spice box, mint, camphor, damp earth and dry leather. Soft entry, slightly disjointed. Chewy tannins and zesty acidity. Fresh. Leaves the palate with a dry mouthfeel.

Points 89 TW

Castello di Verrazzano Sassello CC Gran Selezione 2016

Intense ruby red in colour.Black cherry, wild black berries, liquorice, mocha, damp forest floor, Mediterranean herbs and menthol. Complex, dense with tons of energy. Secondary nuances of tobacco, leather and oaky vanilla overtures.

Points 94 TW

Castello La Leccia CC 2019

Intense ruby red in colour. The bouquet is worth the bottle price alone. Ripe red cherry, blackberry, dark plum, pomegranate juice. Floats on a bed of menthol, liquorice, purple florals, crushed mint and dark spice. Refined and super expressive. Showing opulence and class.

Points 94 TW

Castello La Leccia Bruciagna CC Gran Selezione 2018

Intense ruby red in colour. Wild black and red berries, sweet tobacco, liquorice, dried Mediterranean herbs, menthol notes and white smoke. Bordering on full bodied. Great balance. Secondary nuances coming from mid palate of vanilla and spice. Absorbing display of nuances. Very persistent finish with linear intensity.

Points 94 TW

Castello La Leccia CC Riserva 2018

Ruby red in colour. Showing poise and grace from the off. Red berry fruit, blood orange, menthol and eucalyptus. Soft contours show up on entry, tannins and acidity seem to be balanced out. Bold structure yet lightweight texture. Compelling.

Points 93 TW

Castello Vicchiomaggio Guido Altro CC 2020

Medium ruby red with purple undertones. Racy from the start. Forward bouquet of ripe red cherry, clementine peel, minty herbals, camphor. Soft light entry. Oaky notes give a greenish feel to the palate.

Points 88 TW

Castello Vicchiomaggio Le Belle CC Gran Selezione 2018

Deep ruby red in colour. A rich, dense palate of black fruits, liquorice, black tea, leather and chocolate. Robust. Super expressive. A whisker of over extraction.

Points 89 TW

Castello Vicchiomaggio La Prima CC Gran Selezione 2017

Ruby red in colour. Red cherry, blackberry, notes of humus, camphor, complex minerality. Well balanced. Secondary nuances of blue florals, mocha and balsam. Plenty of verve. Persistent finish with intensity.

Points 94 TW

Castello Vicchiomaggio Agostino Petri CC Riserva 2018

Medium ruby red in colour. A mixture of dark and red fruits, dried Mediterranean herbs, liquorice, a puff of cinnamon. Light in texture, soft edges, rapier acidity, toasted aftertaste.

Points 89 TW

Castello di Gabbiano Cavaliere D’ Oro CC 2019

Medium ruby red in colour. Heady bouquet of black cherry, dark plum, rhubarb, liquorice and menthol. Soft fruity entry. Medium bodied. Pleasant impression of a balanced fruit led juicy wine.

Points 90 TW

Castello di Gabbiano Cavaliere D’ Oro CC Riserva 2018

Ruby red in colour. Red cherry, wild strawberry, orange peel, dried herbs, faint menthol aromas. Juicy. Soft contours. Edgy. Showing opulence. Nicely woven together.

Points 92 TW

Castello di Gabbiano Cavaliere D ‘Oro Bellezza CC Gran Selezione 2017

Intense ruby red in colour. Red and black berries, underbrush, liquorice, pipe tobacco.

Good length and balance. Showing terroir. As always, distinctive. Good showing from difficult vintage.

Points 92 TW

Cecchi Villa Cerna Primocolle CC 2019

Medium garnet in colour. Morello cherry, blood orange, liquorice, leather, violet florals, menthol infused dry Mediterranean herbs. Well integrated. Balanced. With just a hint of sour cherry on mid palate. Comes up short on the back end.

Points 89 TW

Cecchi Valore di Famiglia CC Gran Selezione 2017

Medium ruby red in colour. Red cherry, crushed raspberry, baked dark plum, cedar, dry forest floor. Tannins need to loose youthfulness. Acidity fresh and clean. Not yet come together: my concern is…it might not!

Points 88-90 TW

Cecchi Riserva di Famiglia CC Riserva 2017

Medium ruby red in colour with bright highlights.

Slight reductive notes, needs plenty of aeration. Ripe red cherry, wild strawberry, blood orange, purple florals, liquorice, damp forest floor, sweet scented spice. Poised and balanced entry saturates the palate, finely formed and attractive. Loiters on the finish.

Points 93 TW

Contessa Caterina Pasolini dall’Onda Sicelle CC 2017

Ruby red in colour. Red and black forest berries, faint humus, raspberry cassis, clove, nutmeg and liquorice. Juicy balanced progression with tangy acidity. Leaves a tart clean mouthfeel

Points 91 TW

Contessa Caterina Pasolini dall’Onda Sicelle CC Gran Selezione 2012

Pale ruby in colour. Morello cherry, dark plum, liquorice, orange peel, mentholated herbs, black tea and a whiff of bergamot. Precise and defined entry, moves across mid palate slowly, bringing soft waves of juicy primary aromas. At the top of its game. Appealing.

Points 95 TW

Dievole Petrignano CC 2019

Medium ruby red in colour. Red cherry, dark baked plum, liquorice, menthol infused dried herbs, brown spice, faint camphor notes. Medium bodied. Broadens on the mid palate bringing fresh juicy mouthfeel, incased in forward tannins and sour edged acidity. Needs time to integrate.

Points 91 TW

Dievole Vigna di Sessina CC Gran Selezione 2016

Ruby red in colour. Sensational fruit quality consisting of dark cherry, wild strawberry, blood orange and pomegranate. Further nuances of liquorice, tobacco, mocha and spice. Plump and juicy. Standout wine. Extremely long finish.

Points 94 TW

Dievole Novecento CC Riserva 2018

Bright ruby red in colour. Red cherry, wild red berries, dry forest floor, new leather, a puff of smoke, black pepper, faint notes of black tea. Full bodied. Layered. Complex minerality web. Needs plenty of aeration. Persistent close.

Points 92 TW

Fattoria della Aiola CC 2019

Medium ruby red in colour. Black cherry, blackberry, blueberry, violet florals, dry leather, menthol and black tea.Inviting succulent entry, broadens across the palate bringing waves of fresh core fruit and brown spice with tobacco notes. Leaves fresh mint infused citrus mouthfeel.

Points 93 TW

Fattoria della Aiola CC Riserva 2018

Intense ruby red in colour. Red and black berry fruit, dried cherry, liquorice, mace, menthol infused Mediterranean herbs, blue florals and cinnamon spice. Delicate entry with considerable appeal. Linear. Slightly exotic. Freshness carries the day despite a little dryness on the close.

Points 92 TW

Fattoria della Aiola Cancello Rosso CC Gran Selezione 2017

Deep ruby red in colour. Blackberry, wild strawberry, liquorice, dark spice, menthol and purple florals. Soft entry showing light textures, nervous acidity and chewy tannins. Persistent with long finish.

Points 91 TW

Fattoria La Ripa CC 2019

Pale ruby red in colour. Sweet red cherry, pomegranate, wild strawberry, baked dark plum, brown spice, spring cut flower aromas. Fresh, forward fruit progress through mid palate leaving a light footprint. Ultra fine tannins with clean fresh acidity play a valid supporting role. Loiters softly on the finish.

Points 93 TW

Fattoria Montecchio Prīmum CC2018

Medium ruby red in colour. Concentrated aromas of red fruits, leather, liquorice and balsam. Outstanding juicy entry showing ripe red cherry, orange peel notes and faint humus. Supple. Savoury.

Points 93 TW

Fattoria Montecchio CC Riserva 2017

Medium ruby red in colour, Red berries, baked plum, crushed raspberry, orange peel, white smoke, faint balsamic notes, Mediterranean herbs. Soft entry. Little tension and faint sour notes on the close.

Points 92 TW

Fattoria Montecchio Prīmum CC Riserva 2017

Bright ruby red in colour. Red berry fruits, dark plum, liquorice, vanilla oaky notes, chewy tannins, zingy acidity, spice box. Juicy. All where it should be. Articulated finish.

Points 93 TW

Fattoria Montecchio Pasquino Prīmum CC Gran Selezione 2016

Deep ruby red in colour with bright undertones. A complex web of ripe red cherry, baked plum, orange peel, golden tobacco and cake spice. Balanced like a tight rope walker. Brings together all the qualities of this fabulous vintage. Finish is juicy and broad and goes on for minutes.

Points 95 TW

Fattorie Melini Granaio CC 2019

Bright ruby red in colour. Soft red berry fruit, liquorice, blood orange, violet florals, balsamic notes. Soft entry. Rounded textures. Broad on the mid palate. Juicy. Good progression to close.

Points 93 TW

Fattorie Melini Terrarossa CC 2019

Bright ruby red in colour.

First bottle - poor showing. Second opening: Red cherry, redcurrant, mint, faint clove, balsamic notes. Very expressive bouquet. Warm soft entry. Medium bodied. Good balance. Fresh integrated acidic appeal. Juicy expansive finish.

Points 92 TW

Fattorie Melini La Selvanella CC Riserva 2017

Ruby red in colour.Red cherry, liquorice, mint, tangerine peel, dark spice. Savoury. Edgy. Agile with great length.

Points 92 TW

Fèlsina Berardenga CC Riserva 2018

Bright ruby red in colour. Dark red fruit. Liquorice. Distinctive spice profile. Faint fragrant floral canopy. Finely grained tannins. Fresh acidity. Silky and seamless.

Points 94 TW

Fèlsina Rancia CC Riserva 2018

Intense ruby red in colour. A mix of red and black berry fruit, cedar, orange peel, liquorice and faint mocha notes. Eastern spice. Compact tannin structure but not aggressive. A wine with broad shoulders. Oozes pedigree and finesse. Very captivating.

Points 96 TW

Fèlsina Colonia CC Gran Selezione 2018

Intense ruby red in colour. Dark cherry, wild red and blackberry fruit, plum, purple florals, orange peel liquorice and pipe tobacco. Savoury and earthy. Has buckets of residual tannin tension. This is required to hold up the massive textured structure. With further bottle age all nuances will knit and relax. Outstanding. Take a bow!

Points 98 TW

Fietri CC 2018

Pale ruby red in colour. Inviting bouquet of blackberry, eucalyptus, liquorice, mint, worn leather. Sharp acidity awakens the senses, contours are soft. Sour cherry notes command all before it. Good clean finish.

Points 90 TW

Frescobaldi Tenuta Perano CC 2019

Ruby red in colour with purple highlights. Bouquet worth the price of the ticket. Blackberry, blueberry, dark plum, blood orange, dried Mediterranean herbs and menthol. Juicy. Silky tannins and bright acidity. Generous personality.

Points 93 TW

Frescobaldi Tenuta Perano CC Riserva 2017

Ruby red in colour. Red cherry, plum, cake spice, new leather. Caressing tannins vie with vivid acidity. Muted mocha aroma. Forceful but not overdone.

Points 92 TW

Frescobaldi Tenuta Perano Rialzi CC Gran Selezione 2017

Intense ruby red in colour. Blackberry, blueberry, wild cherry, mocha, blond pipe tobacco, white smoke and spice. Precise with fresh soft tannins and clean acidity. Articulated finish.

Points 94 TW

Gagliole Rubiolo CC 2019

Medium ruby red in colour. Red cherry, wild strawberry, dark plum, golden tobacco, worn leather, menthol infused Mediterranean herbs. Medium bodied. Shows balance and energy. A little tight coming off mid palate, but freshness shows the way to a long finish.

Points 90 TW

Gagliole CC Riserva 2019

Ruby red in colour. Red cherry, crushed raspberry, violet and dark red florals, Mediterranean herbs. Medium bodied. Rich, elegant and inviting. Dense supple fruit palate. Showing tension in structure but is well within itself. Needs bottle age. Has ethereal quality.

Points 93 TW

Gagliole CC Gran Selezione 2018

Intense ruby red in colour. Black cherry, tobacco, orange peel, mocha and menthol notes. Seamless. Graceful and subtle. Superb transparency. Beautifully woven together. Very persistent finish with intensity.

Points 94 TW

Geografico Contesa di Radda CC Riserva 2018

Deep Purple in colour. Crushed blackberry, blueberry cassis, cinnamon spice, dried herbs, orange peel. Black hole of textural depth. Solid core of black fruit surrounded and lifted by massive structure of tannins, minerality and fresh acidity. Progressive and linear to the finish.

Points 94 TW

Geografico I Terzieri Terzieri di Levante CC 2019

Pale ruby red in colour.Dark cherry, blackberry, cassis, dark baked plum, forest floor, menthol infused dried Mediterranean herbs, caraway seed. Ample and generous. Freshness with energy. Terrific persistence.

Points 93 TW

Geografico I Terzieri Terziere di Ponente CC 2019

Medium ruby red in colour. Red dry cherry, crushed raspberry, menthol infused herbs, liquorice, white florals and wild strawberry. Soft warm entry, shows poise and delicate structure. Freshness and dryness go hand in glove. Distinctive.

Points 92 TW

Geografico I Terzieri Terzieri di Tramontano CC 2019

Medium ruby red in colour with bright purple undertones. Dark cherry, pomegranate, crushed raspberry, golden pipe tobacco, dried Mediterranean herbs, faint notes of eucalyptus. Elegant body, finely sculpted. Expansive and juicy, in harmony. Generous. On the close primary fruit flavours and hot spice. Impressive.

Points 94 TW

Isole e Olena CC 2018

Bright ruby red in colour. Red berry fruits with dark cherry. Violet aromatics mix with balsamic notes and dried herbs. It’s the fruit that drives this. Silky, balanced, persistent and elegant offering.

Points 92 TW

Isole e Olena Cepparello Toscana Rosso IGT 2018

Ruby red in colour. Showing its class from the start. Dark red fruits and wild berries. Eastern spice, blood orange, mint, menthol infused dried Mediterranean herbs. Although compact has the energy of a Formula 1 racing car. But at the end of the day it’s all about terroir.

Points 96 TW

Istine CC 2019

Bright ruby red in colour. Red berries, dark cherry, Eastern spice, faint balsam notes.

Subdued freshness and energy. A little into its shell. Youthful tannins and vivid acidity. Needs time to relax.

Points 91-93 TW

Istine Levigne CC Riserva 2018

Intense ruby red in colour with bright purple undertones. A wonderful bouquet of ripe black berries, dark cherry, baked plum, mocha, menthol infused dark petal florals and cinnamon notes.Tremendous resonance. Huge concentration. Natural richness. Needs a year or two bottle age.

Points 94-96 TW

Lecci e Brocchi CC 2019

Medium ruby red in colour. Dark plum, pomegranate, menthol, herbs, blueberry, liquorice, blue florals and blood orange. Cool soft entry. Light in texture. Tight with chewy tannins. Vertical. Mid weight. Fresh.

Points 92 TW

Lecci e Brocchi Il Chiorba CC Riserva 2017

Deep garnet in colour. Dark cherry, blackberry, mint, liquorice, menthol, orange peel and faint clove. Drying tannins impossible to ignore.

Points 87 TW

Lecci e Brocchi MCMDXV11 Celerarium CC Gran Selezione 2015

Deep ruby red in colour. Dark red Morello cherry, plum, redcurrant, liquorice, dark chocolate, camphor and warm earth. Has freshness in citrusy character. Signs of drying tannins that tend to pucker the palate. Fades on the close.

Points 89 TW

Lilliano CC 2019

Pale ruby red in colour. Sweet scented bouquet of ripe red cherry, plum, pomegranate, liquorice, orange peel, allspice and menthol infused crushed spring flowers. Sharp and edgy body, followed by core of tart flavours. Nervous texture. Obviously needs bottle age to try and sort itself out.

Points 88-90 TW

Lilliano CC Riserva 2018

Deep ruby red in colour. Red cherry, blackberry, liquorice, leather, spice, orange peel. House style is appealing, seamless and unwavering linearity. Juicy. Tight and polished. Needs aeration. Very persistent finish.

Points 93 TW

Lilliano CC Gran Selezione 2018

Medium ruby red in colour. Red cherry, plum, blond tobacco, liquorice, herbs, faint notes of cinnamon spice. A whiff of menthol and bitter orange peel. Inviting delicate primary nuances saturate the palate. Such lightness of touch but weighty in flavour. Full of character. Wonderful display of Sangiovese.Fabulous silky red.

Points 94 TW

Mazzei Castello di Fonterutoli CC 2019

Medium ruby red in colour. Black cherry, blackcurrant, liquorice, cedar, brown spice, saddle leather. Expresses itself beautifully. Freshness that gives suppleness. Slight tart notes on the back end.

Points 92 TW

Mazzei Ser Lapo CC Riserva 2018

Medium ruby red in colour. Bouquet of cut spring flowers and Mediterranean herbs floating on crushed eucalyptus on a mix of red and black fruits. Balsamic notes. Damp earth. So approachable. Gives layers of pleasure. Compelling long finish.

Points 93 TW

Mazzei Castello di Fonterutoli Vicoregio 36 CC Gran Selezione 2018

Intense ruby red in colour. Crushed red cherry, redcurrant, baked plum, violet florals, spice box. Savoury. Finely sculptured body. Stunning textural richness and depth. Terrific persistence to a long lingering close.

Points 93 TW

Mazzei Castello di Fonterutoli CC Gran Selezione 2018

Bright ruby red in colour. Supple red fruit palate, spice, rose petal aromatics, pomegranate juice, mint. Sophisticated silky textures. Shows pedigree as it spreads across mid palate with a juicy blend of primary flavours. Hovers on the close.

Points 94 TW

Mazzei Castello di Fonterutoli Badiòla CC Gran Selezione 2018

Pale ruby red in colour. Elegant bouquet of red cherry, crushed raspberry, liquorice, orange peel, faint notes of cake spice and orange blossom. Soft contours. Juicy. Fresh clean acidity lifts the entire palate. Finish just refuses to conclude.

Points 94 TW

Montecalvi CC 2019

Ruby red in colour. Blackberry, dark cherry, blueberry, orange peel, liquorice, worn leather, mocha and black pepper. Menthol infused Mediterranean herbs.

Fresh mouthfeel with youthful fine tannins and tangy acidity. Complex with graceful energy. Has a beguiling, expressive character.

Points 93 TW

Montefioralle CC 2019

Medium ruby red in colour. Elegant bouquet showing red cherry, crushed raspberry, redcurrant, sweet tobacco, faint clove and cinnamon spice. Mint and menthol notes. Blue florals. Engaging entry showing balance and poise. Solid core of fresh red fruit surrounded by fine tannins and zesty acidity. The close is utterly faultless.The sweet tobacco nuances are driven by essence of orange peel. A total winner!

Points 95 TW

Montefioralle CC Riserva 2018

Deep ruby red in colour. Red and black berry fruits, baked dark plum, blood orange, liquorice, menthol infused Mediterranean herbs. Faint clove and black tea nuances. Elegant. Rounded contours with complex textural depth broaden across the mid palate delivering juicy freshness and joy to the senses. Finish is intense and long. This is an estate to follow…

Points 95 TW

Monte Maggio CC Riserva 2014

Ruby red in colour. Faint aromas of dark fruit, notes of subtle spice. Compact entry. Showing a spark or two of energy but very little else.

Points 86 TW

Monte Maggio CC Gran Selezione 2013

Bright ruby red in colour. Red cherry, crushed raspberry, cranberry, liquorice, faint clove, white pepper and purple florals.Saline infused minerality. Pleasant progression with fine tannins and fresh clean acidity. Juicy. Articulated on the close.

Points 92 TW

Panzanello 1427 CC 2020

Deep ruby red in colour. Red berry fruits, liquorice, cedar, orange peel and menthol aromas. Fresh. Open. Juicy. Has a balanced feel. Fine tannins. Unfortunately it has a very abrupt finish.

Points 90 TW

Panzanello 1427 CC 2019

Deep ruby red in colour. Blackberry, dark cherry and plum, violet florals, liquorice, mace, bitter orange peel, faint notes of humus. Extraordinary breadth of primary flavours abound on mid palate. Glorious texture richness. Saline infused energy. Fresh long finish.

Points 93 TW

Panzanello 1427 CC Riserva 2018

Intense ruby red in colour. Interesting bouquet mix of red and black wild berries, spice, pomegranate and blood orange, under a fragrant floral canopy. Has distinctive character. Structured and intense. Articulated close.

Points 92 TW

Podere Ciona CC 2018

Pale garnet in colour. Red cherry, pomegranate, crushed raspberry, hibiscus, orange peel, fresh Mediterranean herbs. Stone minerality. Wonderful balance. Juicy entry. Waves of fruit driven by energetic pulses of fresh acidity and fine tannins, lifted by an aromatic profile. Great showing.

Points 94 TW

Podere Ciona CC Riserva 2015

Pale ruby red in colour with purple highlights. Red cherry, blackberry, dark plum, humus, orange peel, menthol, mint, worn leather and liquorice. Tight in texture, but soft rounded contours. Fully integrated. Shows gaps in depth on mid palate. Loiters on the close. Could have benefited from a little more weight, but a pleasure all the same.

Points 93 TW

Pratale CC 2019

Bright ruby red in colour. Violet and dark purple florals, followed by dark cherry, blackcurrant, wild strawberry, camphor, rhubarb and liquorice. Elegant entry showing primary flavours. Balanced textural depth and freshness. Orange peel notes and crushed stone minerality appear on the back end. Excellent showing.

Points 93 TW

Pratale Villa Montignana CC Riserva 2018

Ruby red in colour. Red cherry, dark plum, cranberry, liquorice, white pepper, tangerine peel, powdered Eastern spice.Tight and linear entry, eventually broadens out over mid palate showing medium weight body and subdued citrusy character. Persistent close. Unusual and likeable.

Points 92 TW

Quercia Al Poggio CC 2019

Garnet red in colour with pink undertones. Warm red fruits, dried herbs, menthol, damp forest floor. Soft entry. Light juicy texture coats the palate showing balance and depth of primary flavours. Leaves fresh mouthfeel.

Points 92 TW

Quercia Al Poggio CC Riserva 2016

Deep garnet red in colour. Black fruits, pipe tobacco, liquorice, spice box.

Edgy, youthful and primary. Secondary nuances of crushed red cherry, cedar and mocha. Finely formed and showing the vintage at its best.

Points 94 TW

Querciabella CC 2019

Medium ruby red in colour. Elegant bouquet prepares the senses for phenomenal fruit aromas consisting of wild red berries, black cherry, wild strawberry, scented eastern spice, faint camphor notes and orange peel. High pitched floral notes finally make way for etched minerality alongside fine tannins and fresh acidity. Delivers beautifully.

Points 94 TW

Querciabella CC Riserva 2018

Ruby red in colour. Dark fruit of cherry and plum lead nuances of cake spice, dry leather, liquorice, dried herbs and pipe tobacco. Long and focused with terrific energy and drive. Intense display of Sangiovese articulated on the close.

Points 94 TW

Riecine CC 2020

Medium ruby red in colour. Red cherry, liquorice, toasted oaky element, dark purple florals and menthol. Cool expansive entry. Core fruit leads a juicy balanced expression. Tapers slightly on the back end but does not interfere with the overall persistent close.

Points 93 TW

Riecine CC Riserva 2019

Deep ruby red in colour. Black cherry, blackberry, dark plum, crushed blueberry, damp forest floor, liquorice and brown spice. A wine of impact. Wild and savoury. Showing detailed structure of primary flavours. Full of character.

Points 94+ TW

Riecine Vigna Gittori 50 CC Gran Selezione 2019

Bright ruby red in colour. Delicate aromatic profile. Dark fruits, wild meadow flowers, subtle spice nuances. Stunning textural richness. Envelopes the palate. Perfect symmetry. Extremely long and flavourful.

Points 95+ TW

Rocca delle Macìe Famiglia Zingarelli CC 2020

Medium ruby red in colour. Violet florals and black pepper hit the senses before all else. Followed by black cherry, dark plum, dry underbrush, faint notes of rhubarb and menthol. Smooth, energetic entry introducing fresh, vibrant acidity. Needs time to level up to come through better balanced.

Points 91 TW

Rocca delle Macìe Famiglia Zingarelli CC Riserva 2019

Medium ruby red in colour. Sweet red cherry, crushed raspberry, pomegranate, menthol, faint notes of tobacco and liquorice. Showing good weight. Juicy. Expansive and layered. Leaves the palate wanting more. Long and distinctive.

Points 93 TW

Rocca delle Macìe Tenuta Fizzano CC Gran Selezione 2019

Pale ruby red in colour with bright garnet undertones. A little tight. After a few hours of aeration starts to open up. Wonderful aromas of blackberry, blood orange, clove, dried Mediterranean herbs, faint notes of candid ginger. Clean soft entry showing spirited minerality and deep textured structure. Youthful zingy acidity needs to settle. Fine tannins. Persistent fresh close. A more elegant style, very noticeable, coming from RdM.

Points 93 TW

Rocca di Montegrossi CC 2020

Medium ruby red in colour with translucent purple undertones. Dark cherry, plum, blackcurrant, cinnamon and clove, dry floral underbrush, shell minerality and liquorice.

Smooth, elegant entry sails across mid palate with grace and poise. Balanced within a micron. Nothing out of place. Restrained energy. A sensational wine!

Points 96 TW

Rocca di Montegrossi San Marcellino CC Gran Selezione 2017

Medium ruby red in colour. Aromatic delineation off the charts. Ripe red cherry, raspberry cassis, crushed mint, baked plum, blood orange, faint notes of eucalyptus. Mouthfeel is soft if just a little restrained, tightens coming off mid palate but the primary flavours carry it through. Tannins are dusty but compact. Acidity is just pitch perfect.

Not as resplendent as other vintages… but we are talking 2017!

Points 95 TW

Rocca di Montegrossi Geremia Toscana Rosso IGT 2017

Deep ruby red in colour. The aromatics alone are well worth the price of the ticket. Black cherry, red plum, blackcurrant, cranberry. Saturates the palate with textured depth and freshness. Dark purple florals come and go, adding further lift to the aromatics. So compact and precise. Patience is still required, two or three years more bottle age will undoubtedly reap major rewards.

Points 97+ TW

Rocca di Montegrossi Ridolfo Toscana Rosso IGT 2015

Bright ruby red in colour. 50% Cabernet Sauvignon 50% Pugnitello. Starts with a jet propelled rush to the senses, aromatics of ripe fruit, spice box, floral and herbal notes.

You pull away only to be drawn back, willpower has disappeared! Secondary nuances of pink rose petal, mace, lightly roasted coffee beans and liquorice. Energy release is pin point. Fresh acidity sustains the rich body. Articulated finish. A liquid pleasure bomb!

Points 99 TW

Ruffino Tenuta Santedame CC 2019

Medium garnet in colour. Dry cherry, wild blackberry, liquorice, menthol and orange peel.

Warm soft entry, expands and coats the palate of fresh core fruit, and balanced textural structure. Showing youthful tendencies but mature intentions.

Points 93 TW

Ruffino Romitorio di Santedame CC Gran Selezione 2016

Bright ruby red in colour. Wild red berries, blood orange, blueberry, worn leather, golden pipe tobacco, Eastern spice box and damp earth. Dense textural volume. Slightly exotic. Distinct personality. Delivers beautifully.

Points 95 TW

Ruffino Riserva Ducale Oro CC Gran Selezione 2017

Intense ruby red in colour. Fresh soft red fruits interplay with dark spices. Cedar, blue florals. Invites you in then captures you.Juicy. Terrific persistence.

Points 94 TW

Ruffino Riserva Ducale Oro CC Riserva 2018

Bright ruby red in colour. Dark cherry, wild black berries, cedar, dried Mediterranean herbs, vanilla notes and Eastern spice box. Tannin and acidity in line. Full of energy. Long fruity juicy close.

Points 92 TW

San Felice CC 2020

Medium ruby red in colour. Red cherry, crushed raspberry, menthol infused herbs, blood orange, camphor and crushed rock. Lightly textured, open expression. Tangy acidity with fresh tannins. Clean juicy finish. Ready to go.

Points 90 TW

San Felice Il Grigio CC Gran Selezione 2017

Medium ruby red in colour. Brings together some of the problems of this difficult vintage. Shows very little aromatics of fruit or floral accents. Narrow and lean with sour notes. Unpleasant mouthfeel.

Points 86 TW

San Felice Il Grigio CC Riserva 2019

Bright ruby red in colour. Red cherry, wild strawberry, liquorice, blood orange, camphor and mint. Showing ripeness. Soft texture. Juicy. Fresh but tart notes on the close.

Points 91 TW

San Giusto a Rentennano CC 2019

Medium ruby red in colour. Showing pedigree with a captivating bouquet of warm black fruit, pomegranate, liquorice and mint.Very tight. Silky entry. Showing forward tannins, tangy acidity, layered complex minerality. Great textural depth. Broadens a little on the back end with herbal notes and white smoke. Needs a couple of years bottle age to fill out.

Points 91-93 TW

San Giusto a Rentennano Le Baroncole CC Riserva 2018

Bright ruby red in colour. Blackberry, black cherry and dark plum, worn leather, brown spice and blue florals. Agile with great length. Just floats on the palate bringing harmony. So graceful and stellar.

Points 95 TW

Tenuta di Arceno CC 2019

Pale purple in colour. Black cherry, blueberry, dark plum, liquorice, blood orange, faint notes of clove and mint. Youthful tight texture showing balance and broad sways of core red berries, crushed rock minerality and faint camphor nuances. Needs a couple of years to fill out and come together.

Points 92-94 TW

Tenuta di Arceno Strada Al Sasso CC Gran Selezione 2019

Pale ruby red in colour. A mix of red and black berries, mentholated herbs, plum, cake spice, balsam notes, cut spring flowers. Almost Burgundian in style. Silky textures captivate the senses, showing briefly complex depth of nuances...then it disappears leaving the palate longing for more. This wine needs time to do its thing. Patience is the game here.

Points 93-95 TW

Tenuta di Arceno CC Riserva 2019

Pale ruby red in colour. Bouquet shows immediate class. Black cherry, wild strawberry, soft black liquorice, mint, new leather and plum sauce. Nervous style showing youthful tannins and juicy acidity. Relaxed progression. Needs time.

Points 93-95 TW

Terre di Melazzano Chi Andre CC 2019

Medium ruby red in colour. Red cherry, raspberry, dark plum, orange peel, Eastern dark spice and menthol. Cool entry, light texture. Savoury. Little reticent.

Sour cherry freshness on the close. Needs a couple of years bottle age to relax.

Points 92 TW

Terre di Melazzano Cantinato CC Riserva 2017

Bright ruby red in colour. Glorious bouquet of ripe red cherry, pomegranate, crushed raspberry, mint, liquorice and baking spice, all lifted by fragrant menthol infused Mediterranean herbs and dark petal rose florals. In the distance a whiff of white smoke.

On entry, silky tannins encircle fresh fruit. Earthy. Super expressive. Wow, this was a surprise for 2017!

Points 95 TW

Terre di Melazzano CC Gran Selezione 2017

Ruby red in colour. Black cherry, blackcurrant, wild red berries, violet florals, Eastern spice, orange peel and camphor notes. Energetic entry, waves of chewy tannins and rapier acidity. Falls away at the close. Toasted aftertaste.

Points 89 TW

Valiano Poggio Teo CC 2019

Pale ruby red in colour. Ripe red cherry, raspberry, cranberry, leather and liquorice. Violet florals vie with menthol infused Mediterranean herbs. Sweet succulent entry, that saturates the palate with energy, and textural depth. Articulated juicy close.

Points 93 TW

Valiano Poggio Teo CC Riserva 2018

Medium ruby red in colour. Red cherry, raspberry, strawberry, liquorice, mint, blue florals,

orange peel. Racy personality. Clean, fresh and vibrant. Good tannin and acidity balance. Fresh mouthfeel.

Points 92 TW

Valiano San Lazzaro CC Gran Selezione 2018

Ruby red in colour. Red fruit including cherry and plum, liquorice, leather, blood orange, faint menthol. Distinctive tannin structure set against tangy acidity. Complex minerality. Great showing!

Points 94 TW

Vignamaggio Terre di Prenzano CC 2019

Bright ruby red in colour. Intense bouquet of red and black berry fruit, dark plum, liquorice, faint nuances of menthol and rose petal. Arrives with grace and poise, lightly structured on the mid palate leaving fresh mouthfeel. Has sheer appeal.

Points 93 TW

Villa Calcinaia CC Riserva 2018

Medium ruby red in colour. Blackberry, dark plum, blackcurrant, liquorice, faint balsamic notes, underbrush and sweet tobacco. Rich and yet delicate entry, tip toes across the palate bringing soft deep textural senses edged with fresh acidity allowing a broadening to a juicy close.

Points 93 TW

Villa Le Corti Principe Corsini Don Tommaso CC Gran Selezione 2018

Bright ruby red in colour. Dark cherry, blueberry, orange peel, violet and lavender aromatics. Rich palate, muscular yet juicy and agile. Inward and intense.

Points 92 TW

Villa Le Corti Principe Corsini Zac CC Gran Selezione 2018

Pale ruby red in colour. Very strong, sweet scented bouquet. Vanilla and spice overshadow all other nuances. Soft entry then acidity broadswords its way through the palate. I am at a loss.

Points 85 TW

Villa Le Corti Principe Corsini Cortevecchia CC Riserva 2018

Pale ruby red in colour. Red Morello cherry, baked plum, liquorice, menthol, mint, faint brown spice notes, dry forest floor. Soft contoured entry, juicy, layered but surrounded with angular tannins and zesty acidity. Falls away on the back end.

Points 89 TW

Villa Trasqua CC 2018

Deep garnet red in colour. If it is black and fruit, it is here! Dense, muscular with prominent acidity. A faint hint of elegance comes from other varieties other than Sangiovese or maybe very sandy terroir.

Points 89 TW

Villa Trasqua Nerento CC Gran Selezione 2013

Deep ruby red in colour. Black fruit consisting of blueberry, blackberry and dark plum. New leather and a whiff of smoke. Deep layered texture. Silky contours. Juicy. Full bodied. Showing bergamot and black tea on the close.

Points 91 TW

Villa Trasqua CC Riserva 2016

Ruby red in colour. Red cherry, wild strawberry, plum, medium bodied. Damp underbrush, vanilla oaky notes, leather. Expressive. Good persistence. Mellow finish.

Points 90 TW

© Tony Wood Italian Wine 2022