1266 products

Italy

In the Italian category, our focus is on value for money reds from Piedmont and Tuscany as well as fresher style dry whites and sparklings. We also regularly secure wines from Sicily and Puglia to name a few, as well as small volumes of big gun Italian super stars such as Tignanello and Sassicaia and the "Killer Bs": Barolo, Barbaresco, and Brunello di Montalcino. If there's a wine you're looking for that's not listed, call us on 1800 069 295 and we'll try to find it for you. A general guide to Italian wines has been produced here to help you in your choice.

1266 products

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- 92
2020 Farina Valpolicella

Veneto, ITALY

$26. 99
Bottle
$323.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2021-2025)

ABV: 12.5%

Closure: Stelvin

A blend of 45% Corvina, 25% Corvinone, 25% Rondinella and 5% Molinara. Bright dark red colour with black tinged edges and a vibrant red hue. Fresh cherry and red raspberry aromas mix with light dusty earth, herbs and spice. Light across the palate with a juicy flavour profile of cherries, red raspberries and red liquorice which melds into subtle vanillin earth and cinnamon characters. Soft fleshy feel with a lively finish, polished tannins and a savoury aftertaste.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 12.5%

Delivery Information
- 93
- Reduced
2021 Feudi Bizantini Terre dei Rumi Montepulciano d’Abruzzo

Abruzzo, ITALY

Reduced from $22.99
$21. 99
Bottle
$263.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2023-2027)

ABV: 13.5%

Closure: Diam Cork

Midnight black dark red core with a vibrant dark red hue. Elevated ripe dark cherry and morello cherry aromas mix with liquorice, vanilla, dusty earth and spice notes. Rich juicy dark to black cherry and liquorice fruits flood the palate and provide plenty of body weight with scorched earth, vanilla and spice elements lying underneath. Juicy yet chewy mouth feel with a ripe sturdy tannin structure. Concludes slightly grippy, deeply fruited and long.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.5%

Delivery Information
- 91
2020 Feudo Arancio Rosato

Sicily, ITALY

$19. 99
Bottle
$239.88 Dozen

Minimum 12 bottles

Cellar: Drink now (2022)

ABV: 12%

Closure: Stelvin

Translucent salmon pink colour with fragrant aromatics of peach, strawberry, citrus and wet stone drifting from the glass. Delicious peach and strawberry flavours make a supple entry with brisk acidity picking up momentum on the back half. Subtle musk and stony mineral elements come through on the dry, fresh and lengthy finish.
Drink now.
Alc. 12%

Delivery Information
- 93
- Organic
- Biodynamic
2021 Feudo Arancio Queto Nero d’Avola

Sicily, ITALY

$37. 99
Bottle
$455.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2023-2026)

ABV: 13.5%

Closure: Diam Cork

Very deep dark red black colour with a dark red hue. Lifted morello cherry and liquorice aromas intermix with dried herbs, cinnamon and vanillin spice. Rich, juicy morello cherry, dark raspberry and liquorice fruits decorate the mid weighted palate with dried herb and spicy cinnamon elements lingering underneath. Fleshy texture with a sturdy tannin structure imparting a chewy feel onto the ripe succulent finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13.5%

Delivery Information
- 92
2021 Feudo Montoni Nero d’Avola Lagnusa

Sicily, ITALY

$42. 99
Bottle
$515.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2023-2028)

ABV: 13.5%

Closure: Diam Cork

Certified biodynamic and organic. Bright red to dark red core with black shaded edges and a youthful purple red hue. Fragrant rose petal infused aromas of raspberry and red liquorice drift through the olfactory senses followed by earthy incense and fresh herb like notes. Lively red to dark raspberry and red liquorice fruits are underscored by fresh crunchy acidity. Some earthy incense and crushed rock like elements linger in the background. Slightly chalky tannins with an elegant, highly energised mineral driven finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5%

Delivery Information
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- 93
- Biodynamic
2017 Feudo Montoni Vrucara Nero d’Avola

Sicily, ITALY

$79. 99
Bottle
$959.88 Dozen

Minimum 6 bottles

Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2022-2026)

ABV: 14%

Closure: Cork

Deep dark red core with black surrounds and a dark red hue. Pronounced ripe blackberry scents intermix with liquorice and spicy plum followed by some dried herb, earth and vanillin cinnamon like notes. Full and quite fleshy in its feel spicy dark plum and liquorice fruits have a prominent vanillin oak and cinnamon underbelly with some earth also chiming in. Round, polished tannins firm up a touch on the lengthy finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 14%
Other Reviews….
Elegantly structured, this opens with enticing scents of ripe dark-skinned fruit, blue flower, Mediterranean brush and whiffs of sun-baked earth. Made with organically farmed grapes, the smooth, delicious palate offers juicy black cherry, blackberry, carob and baking spice alongside polished tannins.
93 Points
Wine Enthusiast

Delivery Information
- 92
- 95
2019 Figli Luigi Oddero Barbaresco Rombone

Piedmont, ITALY

$150. 00
Bottle
$1800.00 Dozen

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
The Figli Luigi Oddero 2019 Barbaresco Rombone is tight and streamlined with typical Nebbiolo aromas that reveal themselves slowly as the wine begins to open. The wine's intensity remains moderate throughout, and this softer approach works well to enhance the more delicate and nuanced sides of this mighty red grape from Piedmont. Drink 2024 - 2036.
92 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Jun 2022)
This elegant red has enticing scents of wild berry, blue flower, botanical herb and baking spice. Savory and focused, the palate features sour cherry, cranberry and star anise framed in taut, refined tannins and fresh acidity. Drink 2024–2031.
95 points
Kerin O'Keefe - Wine Enthusiast

Delivery Information
- 91
- 94
2018 Figli Luigi Oddero Barolo

Piedmont, ITALY

$160. 00
Bottle
$1920.00 Dozen

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
The Figli Luigi Oddero 2018 Barolo is thin and rather timid in terms of its intensity. This laidback approach is reflective of a vintage that produced understated wines overall across the appellation. Redcurrant, dried violet, spice and light shadings of licorice add some aromatic momentum on the bouquet, but again, this vintage holds back in the end. Drink 2024 - 2035.
91 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Jun 2022)
Rose, red berry, tilled earth and mint aromas emerge from the glass. The linear, elegantly structured palate features sour cherry, pomegranate, star anise and the same hazelnut note from the nose. Polished tannins and fresh acidity provide support. Drink 2023–2030.
94 points
Kerin O'Keefe - Wine Enthusiast

Delivery Information
- 94
- 96
2018 Figli Luigi Oddero Barolo Rocche Rivera

Piedmont, ITALY

$350. 00
Bottle
$4200.00 Dozen

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
The Figli Luigi Oddero 2018 Barolo Rocche Rivera shows pinpoint focus and linearity with red berry aromas, lead pencil, blue flower and camphor ash. This precise, directional approach gives the wine increased length and a very clean delivery to the palate. The wine should drink beautifully well beyond the 20-year mark. Drink 2024 - 2040.
94 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Aug 2022)
Forest floor, eucalyptus, woodland berry and new leather are just some of the aromas you'll find on this stunning, full-bodied red. Delicious and elegantly structured, the focused, vibrant palate delivers mature red berry, licorice and dried mint alongside firm, fine-grained tannins. It's well balanced, with bright acidity and shows great aging potential. Drink 2026–2038.
96 points
Kerin O'Keefe - Wine Enthusiast

Delivery Information
- 94
- 96
2018 Figli Luigi Oddero Barolo Vignarionda

Piedmont, ITALY

$440. 00
Bottle
$5280.00 Dozen

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
The 2018 Barolo Vignarionda (with fruit from Serralunga d'Alba) shows dark fruit, ripe plum, savory tobacco, ferrous earth and dark iodine. There is plenty of power in this wine, but it also shows unexpected elegance with a tapered, long and extremely polished mouthfeel. Drink 2024 - 2043.
94 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Aug 2022)
Enticing aromas of forest berry, fragrant blue flower, camphor and dark culinary spice slowly take shape in the glass. Smooth, full-bodied and captivating, the delicious palate offers raspberry compote, ripe Morello cherry, licorice and cake spice framed in polished, velvety tannins. Fresh acidity keeps it beautifully balanced. Drink 2026–2036.
96 points
Kerin O'Keefe - Wine Enthusiast

Delivery Information
- 93
- 95
2017 Figli Luigi Oddero Barolo

Piedmont, ITALY

$140. 00
Bottle
$1680.00 Dozen

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
The Figli Luigi Oddero 2017 Barolo is a steady and compact expression with lots of sharp and well-defined fruit sensations. The grapes are harvested across four sites and blended. Those vineyards are Rive in La Morra, Scarrone in Castiglione Falletto and both Baudana and Broglio in Serralunga d'Alba. As a result, you get the floral intensity and freshness of the first two crus and the structure and richness of the last two. All these elements balanced out quite nicely in this classic Barolo. Drink 2023 - 2038.
93 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (June 2021)

Rose, ripe berry, menthol and sunbaked earth aromas come to the forefront. On the full-bodied palate, enveloping, seasoned tannins accompany dried black cherry, star anise and tobacco. Drink 2024–2029.
95 points
Kerin O’Keefe - Wine Enthusiast

Delivery Information
- 97
- 98
2016 Figli Luigi Oddero Rocche Rivera Barolo

Piedmont, ITALY

$350. 00
Bottle
$4200.00 Dozen

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
Rocche Rivera is a 2.5-hectare parcel inside the Scarrone cru located in Castiglione Falletto with sandy calcareous soils. The celebrated Rocche di Castiglione is located adjacent, and the Pira cru is directly above. Rocche Rivera enjoys an ideal position in one of the best-performing areas of the appellation in this classic vintage. The Figli Luigi Oddero 2016 Barolo Rocche Rivera is stunning, with a level of harmony and purity that makes an immediate and lasting impact. The wine shows pristine fruit aromas backed by wild rose, tar, ash and blood orange. Those aromas hang in perfect balance. The wine is firmly compact and solid in terms of mouthfeel, requiring a few extra years of cellar time to fully unwind. This beautiful 6,000-bottle release will hit the market in October 2020.
97+ points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (July 2020)

New leather, pressed rose, underbrush, dark spice and camphor are just some of the aromas you'll find on this extraordinary red. Full bodied, with depth and finesse, the elegant, structured palate delivers ripe Marasca cherry, crushed raspberry, liquorice and tobacco framed in firm fine-grained tannins. Fresh acidity provides impeccable balance and aging potential.
98 points
Kerin O’Keefe - Wine Enthusiast

Delivery Information
- 94
- 96
2016 Figli Luigi Oddero Barolo

Piedmont, ITALY

$140. 00
Bottle
$1680.00 Dozen

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
The Figli Luigi Oddero 2016 Barolo is a wine of enormous depth and character. It delivers the best of the Nebbiolo playlist with sultry dark fruit at its core followed by lifted or high-toned aromas of dark spice, licorice, candied orange peel and spent embers. The aromatic intensity of the wine is fitted to the underlying power and focused tightness of the mouthfeel. This classic Barolo represents a blend of fruit from four sites spread over three comuni: Rive in La Morra, Scarrone in Castiglione Falletto and both Baudana and Broglio in Serralunga d'Alba. Some 25,000 bottles will be rereleased in October 2020.
94+ points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (July 2020)

Perfumed berry, pine-forest, rose and menthol aromas mingle together on this fragrant, stunning red. It's classically crafted, full bodied and loaded with finesse, delivering juicy red cherry, crushed raspberry, mint and star anise set against taut refined tannins. It's nicely balanced, with bright acidity and youthful tension.
96 points
Kerin O’Keefe - Wine Enthusiast

Delivery Information
- 96
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- 96
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2020 Fontodi Flaccianello della Pieve

Tuscany, ITALY

$350. 00
Bottle
$4200.00 Dozen

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
The 2020 Flaccianello della Pieve is the full package. This point is clear when you taste all the other wines in the Fontodi portfolio and conclude with this bottle. This organic Sangiovese shows beautiful intensity and remains balanced throughout with dark fruit, crushed stone, spice and wild rose. It borrows themes of elegance, depth and ripeness played across this vintage. The wine wraps smoothly over the palate with substantial fruit weight and sweet tannins. This warm-vintage expression can be aged or enjoyed straight out of the gate. Production is 60,000 bottles. Drink 2024-2048.
96 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Sep 22, 2023)
The 2020 Flaccianello della Pieve is a blend of Fontodi's vineyards, mostly three main vineyards planted on sites with very dense, heavy rocks. Dark, pliant and inviting, the 2020 is so expressive today. Black cherry, plum, spice, lavender, licorice and mocha are seamless in the glass. The 2020 is a fine Flaccianello with a bright future. Most of this blend is sourced from three parcels in upper hillside vineyards close to town center. The 2020 spent a year and a half in barrique (40% new) and six months in cask. Drink 2026-2045.
96 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous
Extremely floral with sage and licorice to the berry and dark cherry aromas that follow through to a medium body, with fine and silky tannins that run the length of the wine. Very crunchy for Flaccianello. Vivid on the palate. From organically grown grapes. Drink after 2025.
97 points
James Suckling
This pure red is sophisticated, complex and balanced, permeated with black cherry, blackberry, violet, mineral and spice aromas and flavors, with tannins that are present yet refined and well-integrated. The fruit persists from beginning to end, defining the finish. Sangiovese. Best from 2026 through 2043.
96 points
Bruce Sanderson - Wine Spectator

Delivery Information
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- 95
2020 Fontodi Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo

Tuscany, ITALY

$235. 00
Bottle
$2820.00 Dozen

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
Showing enormous precision and direction, the 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo (with 25,000 bottles released) is a generous expression of Sangiovese that boasts singular intensity. This organic wine offers black fruit, grilled rosemary, pressed rose and crushed limestone. All of these aromas enjoy special, forward-moving intensity that dovetails into the ample fruit generosity that this sun-filled vintage will be remembered for. Drink 2024-2048.
96 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Sep 22, 2023)
The 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is one of the most backward editions of this wine I can remember tasting. Dark and almost somber, the Vigna del Sorbo packs a ton of intensity in its deceptively mid-weight frame. In many vintages, Vigna del Sorbo is quite showy in its youth. That is not at all the case with the 2020, a wine that will require many years to be at its best. Hints of lavender, dried herbs, plum and graphite appear over time, but the 2020 is very clearly an infant. There is a feeling of youthful austerity (in a positive sense) that I find quite alluring. The 2020 Sorbo is a wine for those who can wait. Drink 2027-2045.
95+ points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous
Aromas of stems, dried meat, berries and cherries with some dusty earth. The palate is firm and fresh with a brightness and chewiness. It shows some cement and stone texture to it. From organically grown grapes. Drink after 2025.
94 points
James Suckling
First produced in 1985, Vigna del Sorbo sits alongside Flaccianello at the apex of Fontodi’s range. It was elevated from Riserva to Gran Selezione with the introduction of the category in 2014. The vineyard extends over eight hectares with the oldest plantings now well over 50 years old. The 2020 is slow to reveal itself – even with coaxing, aromas aren’t completely forthcoming. Eventually, subtle hints of sundried tomato and grilled herbs evolve to darker tones of violet and liquorice. True to its western Panzano origins, the framework is firm and sturdy. Tight with a concentrated core but not overly dense, there's a richness to the tannins. Finishes with savoury black plum and toast. Drink 2024 - 2034.
95 points
Michaela Morris - Decanter
This red is tightly wound, linear in profile and full of black cherry, blackberry, blueberry, fresh loam and mineral flavors, supported by lively acidity and dense, suave tannins that integrate nicely with the tension and silky texture. Shows terrific length. Best from 2026 through 2045.
96 points
Bruce Sanderson - Wine Spectator

Delivery Information
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- 97
2020 Fontodi Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Terrazze San Leolino

Tuscany, ITALY

$235. 00
Bottle
$2820.00 Dozen

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
The Fontodi 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Terrazze San Leonlino (a certified organic wine) is a new addition to this exciting portfolio, now in its second vintage. With fruit from the upper part of the Conca d'Oro of Panzano, this wine shows a more robust and powerful personality with a strong 15% alcohol content. It ages in barrique and botte for 24 months. The bouquet is rich with cherry liqueur, blackberry kirsch and dried plum. There is more fruit weight here and you taste the ripeness in the grape skins. The wine has an almost carbonic quality that reminds me of cherry cola, and it ends on a sweet note with soft tannins. Only 5,000 bottles were made. Drink 2023 - 2040.
94 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Sep 22, 2023)
The 2020 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Terrazze San Leolino is another super-appealing wine in this range. Dense and packed, the 2020 captures the richness of Panzano beautifully. Succulent red cherry, red plum, spice, tobacco and incense infuse the palate with notable depth, framed by piercing acids that give the wine its distinctive personality. This remains a work in progress. Drink 2024-2036.
92 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous
Aromas of ripe cherries, bark, wet earth, and spice follow through to a full body with chewy and velvety tannins that are buttressed with some juicy acidity that gives complexity and focus to the wine. From organically grown grapes. Better after 2025 when it softens up.
95 points
James Suckling
Deep in color, this sumptuous red shows both power and finesse, packed with blackberry, black currant, violet, iron and spice flavors. Expressive and beautifully balanced, yet poised for a long evolution thanks to its solid structure. Shows superb refinement, ending with a long aftertaste. Best from 2025 through 2043.
97 points
Bruce Sanderson - Wine Spectator

Delivery Information
2021 Fontodi Chianti Classico

Tuscany, ITALY

$99. 99
Bottle
$1199.88 Dozen

ABV: 14%

Closure: Cork

Fontodi is located in the heart of Chianti Classico precisely in the valley which lies south of the town of Panzano and is called the “Conca d’Oro” (the golden shell) because of its amphitheatre shape. A genuine and characteristc “Terroir”, famous for centuries for its tradition of quality wine cultivation, thanks to a unique combination of high altitude, calcar clayschist soil, lots of light, and a fantastic micro-climate – warm and dry with a marked difference in day and night-time temperatures.
This pure expression of Sangiovese sees two years in neutral wood and bottle before release.

Delivery Information
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2019 Fontodi Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo

Tuscany, ITALY

$199. 00
Bottle
$2388.00 Dozen

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
This iconic wine has all new energy, as it is now part of an exciting set of potential Gran Selezione wines made at Fontodi. Two new portfolio additions (Pastrolo from cool climate Lamole and Terrazze San Leonlino from Panzano) help to give greater context to the organic 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo. This wine of course benefits from many years of experience, and the Vigna del Sorbo identity is well established. But soil geeks will absolutely enjoy comparing Vigna del Sorbo from schistous galestro soils to the limestone alternative found in Terrazze San Leonlino. I tend to lean toward Vigna del Sorbo thanks to those etched mineral notes of pencil shaving and iron ore that I find so appealing. Those dusty notes are amply rounded off by sweet cherry fruit, plum and spice. Rising alcohol can be a problem in sun-drenched Panzano, and the winey team is leaving taller growth on the vines in the summer to cast shade and taking other active measures to combat this issue. Drink 2024-2050.
97 points
Monica Larner - Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate

The 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is a potent, virile wine endowed with tremendous depth and equally imposing tannins. A blast of dark fruit, herbs, chocolate, menthol and spice races out of the glass. Large-scaled tannins and hints of rusticity suggest the 2019 won’t be one of the most finessed Sorbos, but it is a fine effort for the year. Drink 2025-2044.
95 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous
Complex aromas of dried flowers, orange peel and white pepper, together with lots of cherries. Full-bodied, but linear and very fine in the center-palate, with a linear flow of citrusy acidity. From organically grown grapes. This will age beautifully, but it’s already impressive to taste.
95 points
JamesSuckling.com
This is elegant, delivering floral, cherry, raspberry and mineral flavors. A touch of earth peeks through as this plays out gracefully on the finish. Drink now through 2030.
94 points
Bruce Sanderson - Wine Spectator
At an elevation of 400 metres, Vigna del Sorbo boasts Chianti Classico’s classic Galestro soil. The warm southwest-facing vineyard typically yields a powerful, intense wine in need of ageing. The 2019 demonstrates all the wild, penetrating characteristics of this site but it comes into harmony quickly, revealing its balance and precision. Wood-driven top notes of smoke and vanilla meld into pressed violets, rosemary and liquorice. Luscious red cherry and dark plum flesh are wrapped in long, layered chalky tannins. Across the palate there's an energetic beam of unwavering acidity, giving the wine a linear feel. The finish reverberates with fennel and crushed stone. Drink 2026 - 2042.
97 points
Michaela Morris - Decanter

Delivery Information
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2019 Fontodi Flaccianello della Pieve

Tuscany, ITALY

$279. 00
Bottle
$3348.00 Dozen

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
The 2019 Flaccianello della Pieve is another stunning wine that sums up the character of the vintage and reflects the sun-drenched beauty of its quintessentially Tuscan surroundings. Giovanni Manetti and his team have two new important wines in the works, but Flaccianello remains an old love and a wine that hits the highest marks for quality consistency vintage after vintage. I tasted this wine next to the 100-point 2016 vintage for friendly comparison, and perhaps the main difference is that the tannins are finer and more accessible in this bottle. It offers rich concentration and layers of dark fruit that wrap thickly over the senses. Tannin management is an active pursuit. Time in barrique has been reduced over the years in favor of a final six-month resting period in larger oak casks. In fact, the barrel room was recently enlarged to give more room to these bigger vessels. The 2019 vintage recalls the balance of 2001 with the freshness of 2013. However, 2019 is more profound. Drink 2024-2050.
98 points
Monica Larner - Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate
The 2019 Flaccianello della Pieve is another potent wine from Fontodi in this vintage. That said, it has more than enough mid-palate heft and overall intensity to balance its equally imposing tannins. Black cherry, mocha, licorice, lavender, spice and tobacco fill out the layers. The 2019 needs time to integrate its oak and for the imposing tannins to soften. Drink 2026-2044.
94 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous
Blackberry, black-cherry, bark and ink aromas follow through to a full body with tight, integrated tannins and a solid core of fruit at the same time. A little hard and tight now. From organically grown grapes. Needs time to open. Try after 2025.
96 points
JamesSuckling.com
This smooth red is highlighted by macerated black cherry, blackberry and oak spice flavors. Harmonious, with a kick of refined tannins on the long finish. A polished style with the structure to age. Sangiovese. Best from 2023 through 2040.
94 points
Bruce Sanderson - Wine Spectator

Delivery Information
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2018 Fontodi Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo

Tuscany, ITALY

$199. 00
Bottle
$2388.00 Dozen

ABV: 15%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
The Fontodi 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is simply gorgeous now and we should expect better things to come as the wine continues its bottle evolution. This organic, single-vineyard expression (with 29,000 bottles made) delivers impeccable balance and beautiful intensity throughout. The wine sports a developed fruit side that contrasts nicely against the spice and tobacco-like tones that come thanks to 18 months in French barrique and six months in botte. The 2018 vintage can sometimes be hard to read. For example, this wine offers sharp acidity but it also sees a 15% alcohol content plus lots of enduring sweetness and ripeness. The tannins are especially supple and sweet. I can't wait to try this wine in 10 or 15 years from now. Vigna del Sorbo hits the market in September. Drink 2023 - 2050.
96+ points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Oct 2021)

The 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is quite possibly the most elegant, refined version of this wine I have ever tasted. It does not offer the immediacy or impact of either the 2015 or 2016, but, instead, impresses with its elegance, persistence and total class. Bright floral and spice notes add perfume to a core of red-toned fruit. The 2018 represents another move towards greater finesse at Fontodi. It spent a year in French oak barrel and a second year in cask. Drink 2026 - 2048.
98 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous

Beautiful blue fruit with mahogany and violets. Full-bodied with creamy, polished tannins that show a beautiful polished and texture. So drinkable already. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
96 points
James Suckling

Delivery Information
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2017 Fontodi Flaccianello della Pieve

Tuscany, ITALY

$279. 00
Bottle
$3348.00 Dozen

ABV: 15%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
The Fontodi 2017 Flaccianello della Pieve is a standout wine of the dry vintage. This pure Sangiovese opens to a dark garnet color with more visible concentration and density compared to recent past editions. This is a beautiful wine with pliant tannins, dark fruit richness, balanced acidity and a fruit-forward 15% alcohol content. The wine is big and bold when weighed on the Flaccianello scale (and even more so when weighed on the Sangiovese scale) with dark cherry, plum, spice, violet, chalk and campfire ash. Despite that power and inner opulence, this wine adds that zesty Sangiovese character with fresh acidity and an energized approach. This Flaccianello is whole and complete with the natural firmness and structure to hold it steady during the aging process. A small part of amphorae-aged fruit is added to the blend.
96 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Aug 2020)

The 2017 Flaccianello della Pieve is fabulous. Dark, sensual and enveloping, the 2017 captures the essence of the house style in its textural richness and baritone inflections. Black cherry, plum, spice, new leather, licorice and chocolate infuse the 2017 with tremendous richness. The 2017 spent 18 months in barrique followed by 6 months in cask, the same aging regime as the Vigna del Sorbo, but with a bit more new oak. That approach worked very well, as the Flaccianello stands out for its exceptional textural elegance and finesse. It is a positively stellar wine.
97 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous

Very high-toned and muscular red with crushed cherries, blackberries and walnuts. Some dried earth. It’s full-bodied and chewy with solid tannins that form the wine. Beautiful ripe fruit in the center palate. Needs time to soften.
95 points
James Suckling

Delivery Information
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2017 Fontodi Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo

Tuscany, ITALY

$199. 00
Bottle
$2388.00 Dozen

ABV: 15%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
The Fontodi 2017 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is expressive, dark and thickly concentrated. I received my samples early and found that this wine was a little shy or slow to open in this early phase. If given extra time, the bouquet warms up to dark fruit, plum, rum cake and dried violet. I came back to the wine about two hours later and discovered a pretty note of crushed aspirin or carbon, with more crushed flower. The oak adds sweet spice and scorched earth, but these too will integrate with time. From a hot and dry vintage, I'd easily give this edition of Vigna del Sorbo a 15- or 20-year drinking window.
94 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Aug 2020)

The 2017 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is a dense, packed wine. It is also surprisingly, almost shockingly backward. That is probably a good thing for its long-term aging prospects. Readers hoping to get an early glimpse into the 2017 before it shuts down may have a hard time doing that, as today acids and tannin dominate. I expect the 2017 will be stellar in another 4-5 years and drink well to age 25-30 if not longer. Proprietor Giovanni Manetti gave the 2017 18 months in barrique followed by 6 months in cask.
96+ points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous

Powerful, tight red with currant and plum character. Hints of new wood and bark. Full-bodied with dark berries and hints of dark chocolate, as well as other dark fruit. Flavorful finish. Solid. Needs time to open.
95 points
James Suckling

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2019 Fuligni Brunello di Montalcino Magnum (1500ml)

Tuscany, ITALY

$550. 00
Bottle
$6600.00 Dozen

ABV: 15%

Closure: Cork

At 420 metres in Montalcino’s northeast, the Fuligni estate expands over 100 hectares, 14 of which are vineyards. Under the leadership of Maria Flora Fuligni since 1971, along with her long-time right-hand Dr Daniela Perino - now the estate’s CEO - Fuligni is one of the denomination’s most consistent performers. Today the estate is owned by Roberto Fuligni, the nephew of Maria Flora.
Other Reviews....
Pale medium red. Penetrating aromas of sweet blonde tobacco, red cherry, crystallized raspberry, vanilla and black pepper. Elegant full and rich on the palate, with a touch of youthfully chewy oak that will need a few years to resolve fully, but there’s so much fruit crammed into every glass here that I have no doubt this will develop very nicely. A beautiful Brunello that closes long, dense and suave, this is another winner of the 2019 vintage. Drinking window: 2029-2042.
98 points
Ian D'Agata - TerroirSense
With dark fruit balanced out by savory notes of tobacco leaf or cigar ash, the Fuligni 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is rich and beautifully concentrated. In little time, the bouquet reveals a floral interlude with dried rose petal and a tropical note of hibiscus. This wine shows a lot of angles, all very pleasant, that work together. The tannins are dusty and finely textured with a hint of powdery cocoa to close. Production is 33,000 bottles. Drink: 2025-2045.
96 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Dec 2023)
Dusty and floral, the 2019 Brunello di Montalcino opens with a perfumed blend of dried roses, cherries, mint and lavender candies. It’s elegant and seamlessly silky on the palate, enveloping the senses with ripe red berry fruits contrasted by a bitter clove tinge. A core of brisk acidity maintains a lovely balance as a web of fine tannins saturates the palate, and a pleasantly chewy sensation remains. The 2019 is classic to the core. Drink: 2027-2040.
96 points
Eric Guido - Vinous
Perfumed with sweet berry, fresh flower and cedar aromas that follow through to a medium-bodied palate with firm and chewy tannins and a fresh finish. Very classy and structured. Extremely long. Give it time to open. Drink after 2026.
98 points
James Suckling
The ruby/garnet 2019 Brunello Di Montalcino has a very appealing nose with notes of candied cherries, orange peel, anise, white pepper, and dried roses. Savory and snappy, this medium-bodied Brunello is not lacking for structure and has wonderful energy propelling the wine forward on the palate, angular ripe tannins, and a surge of mineral lift. It’s a gorgeous, classic Brunello that should have plenty of longevity. Drink 2026-2040.
96 points
Audrey Frick - JebDunnuck.com
This historic, unwaveringly reliable estate does not disappoint in 2019. Graciously expressive rather than austere, it will nevertheless reveal more with time; yet the aromas – a striking fusion of chestnut forest and polished wood with fennel and spiced plum – are just so tempting now. It fills the mouth with lustrous red berries and pressed violets and, after an initial caress, tightly woven tannins amplify across the palate, remaining poised in their volume. An intricate and detailed wie with profound depths. Matures in 20- to 30-hectolitre Slavonian oak casks with a small percentage in French tonneaux. Drink: 2026-2041.
97 points
Michaela Morris - Decanter
Rich, refreshing and complex, featuring cherry, plum, earth, leather and mineral flavors. This red is vibrant, with hints of licorice and tamarind. Best of all, the ripe fruit, supple texture and resonant tannins extend to a white pepper–tinged finish. Best from 2026 through 2042. 2,750 cases made, 850 cases imported.
95 points
Bruce Sanderson - Wine Spectator

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2019 Fuligni Brunello di Montalcino

Tuscany, ITALY

$250. 00
Bottle
$3000.00 Dozen

ABV: 15%

Closure: Cork

At 420 metres in Montalcino’s northeast, the Fuligni estate expands over 100 hectares, 14 of which are vineyards. Under the leadership of Maria Flora Fuligni since 1971, along with her long-time right-hand Dr Daniela Perino - now the estate’s CEO - Fuligni is one of the denomination’s most consistent performers. Today the estate is owned by Roberto Fuligni, the nephew of Maria Flora.
Other Reviews....
Pale medium red. Penetrating aromas of sweet blonde tobacco, red cherry, crystallized raspberry, vanilla and black pepper. Elegant full and rich on the palate, with a touch of youthfully chewy oak that will need a few years to resolve fully, but there’s so much fruit crammed into every glass here that I have no doubt this will develop very nicely. A beautiful Brunello that closes long, dense and suave, this is another winner of the 2019 vintage. Drinking window: 2029-2042.
98 points
Ian D'Agata - TerroirSense
With dark fruit balanced out by savory notes of tobacco leaf or cigar ash, the Fuligni 2019 Brunello di Montalcino is rich and beautifully concentrated. In little time, the bouquet reveals a floral interlude with dried rose petal and a tropical note of hibiscus. This wine shows a lot of angles, all very pleasant, that work together. The tannins are dusty and finely textured with a hint of powdery cocoa to close. Production is 33,000 bottles. Drink: 2025-2045.
96 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Dec 2023)
Dusty and floral, the 2019 Brunello di Montalcino opens with a perfumed blend of dried roses, cherries, mint and lavender candies. It’s elegant and seamlessly silky on the palate, enveloping the senses with ripe red berry fruits contrasted by a bitter clove tinge. A core of brisk acidity maintains a lovely balance as a web of fine tannins saturates the palate, and a pleasantly chewy sensation remains. The 2019 is classic to the core. Drink: 2027-2040.
96 points
Eric Guido - Vinous
Perfumed with sweet berry, fresh flower and cedar aromas that follow through to a medium-bodied palate with firm and chewy tannins and a fresh finish. Very classy and structured. Extremely long. Give it time to open. Drink after 2026.
98 points
James Suckling
The ruby/garnet 2019 Brunello Di Montalcino has a very appealing nose with notes of candied cherries, orange peel, anise, white pepper, and dried roses. Savory and snappy, this medium-bodied Brunello is not lacking for structure and has wonderful energy propelling the wine forward on the palate, angular ripe tannins, and a surge of mineral lift. It’s a gorgeous, classic Brunello that should have plenty of longevity. Drink 2026-2040.
96 points
Audrey Frick - JebDunnuck.com
This historic, unwaveringly reliable estate does not disappoint in 2019. Graciously expressive rather than austere, it will nevertheless reveal more with time; yet the aromas – a striking fusion of chestnut forest and polished wood with fennel and spiced plum – are just so tempting now. It fills the mouth with lustrous red berries and pressed violets and, after an initial caress, tightly woven tannins amplify across the palate, remaining poised in their volume. An intricate and detailed wie with profound depths. Matures in 20- to 30-hectolitre Slavonian oak casks with a small percentage in French tonneaux. Drink: 2026-2041.
97 points
Michaela Morris - Decanter
Rich, refreshing and complex, featuring cherry, plum, earth, leather and mineral flavors. This red is vibrant, with hints of licorice and tamarind. Best of all, the ripe fruit, supple texture and resonant tannins extend to a white pepper–tinged finish. Best from 2026 through 2042. 2,750 cases made, 850 cases imported.
95 points
Bruce Sanderson - Wine Spectator

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2018 Fuligni Brunello di Montalcino

Tuscany, ITALY

$250. 00
Bottle
$3000.00 Dozen

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
The Fuligni 2018 Brunello di Montalcino stands out for its smooth integration of aromas and the carefully balanced intensity achieved here, which shows momentum but also remains very fine and nuanced. There are many sides to the bouquet with wild fruit, cassis, crushed stone, candied orange and fresh herbs or rosemary. A floral note also appears that suggests rose or iris root. The tannins are very well managed and silky. You hardly feel them, yet the wine offers firm structure throughout. This is a production of 35,000 bottles and one I am happy to recommend. Drink: 2025-2042.
95 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (March 2023)
It takes a good amount of time for the 2018 Brunello di Montalcino to open in the glass, as a cloud of white smoke gives way to a sweetly scented mix of dried roses, sugar-dusted cherries and hints of exotic spice. This is a round and supple 2018, communicating elegance through its velvety textures, polished ripe red fruits and cascading inner violet florals. There’s opulence here, yet also the acidity to balance, as the 2018 tapers off long with classically refined tannins, yet leaves the palate perfectly reset for another sip. Frankly, it’s hard to put this glass down. There will be no Riserva produced in 2018, and so all of that juice was used to bolster this open-knit and seductive Brunello. Drink: 2025-2033.
93 points
Eric Guido - Vinous
A fine Brunello with black cherry, hazelnut and chocolate aromas and flavors. Very perfumed. Medium-bodied with a pretty texture and delicious finish. Lovely fine tannins. Not the most structured red but will improve with age while delivering wonderful pleasure now. Drinkable but better after 2023.
94 points
JamesSuckling.com
Marked by a beam of pure cherry and rose hip flavors, this elegant, succulent red is beautifully balanced between the fruit, acidity, tannins and texture, with accents of earth, tobacco and wild herbs adding detail. The long finish indicates fine potential. Best from 2025 through 2042.
95 points
Bruce Sanderson - Wine Spectator
Under the leadership of Maria Flora Fuligni since 1971, along with her long-time right-hand Dr Daniela Perino - now the estate’s CEO - Fuligni is one of the denomination’s most consistent performers. The 2018 does not disappoint: it epitomises the elegance of the vintage. A captivating synthesis of florals and earth, the nose radiates pressed violet, lavender and rose with truffle and tobacco accents. It expands in the mouth with flavour rather than weight or brawn. Red currants and orange are amplified by piercing acidity, and well-formed, magnificently textured tannins are chalky and adequately padded, giving layers and profundity. Not pushed beyond its capacity, this will drink beautifully over the next decade. Drink: 2023-2034.
96 points
Michaela Morris - Decanter

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2016 Fuligni Brunello di Montalcino Riserva

Tuscany, ITALY

$450. 00
Bottle
$5400.00 Dozen

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
Here's one of the show-stoppers in this report. The Fuligni 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is a layered and important wine with deep renderings of wild berry, ripe fruit, oak spice, pressed flowers and garden herbs. This Brunello lives up to its Riserva designation with extra textural richness, more oak definition, structure and a bigger, longer-lasting aromatic profile. The wine closes with hints of cola, rosemary and wild rose. Drink 2024 - 2050.
97+ points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Feb 2022)
The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva seduces the senses as it mixes savory and sweet, the dusty rose and crushed stone aromas giving way to wild strawberry and dried cherry. A velvety textural wave saturates the palate with salty minerals and tart raspberry fruits, lifted by stunning acidity and cooling herbal tones that create a cascading feel to the crunchy red fruits. While structured and dry, it's also incredibly long, crystalline in nature, and lingers on notes of salted licorice and savory spice. This shows all of the best qualities of the vintage, expertly matched to the classic stylings of Fuligni. That said, the 2016 is a sleeping giant, in need of cellaring to show its best. Deciding between this and the estate Brunello from 2016 is like splitting hairs, but what I can say is that the Riserva has the potential for a longer life and possibly a higher score when at full maturity. Drink 2026-2040.
98+ points
Eric Guido - Vinous
The complexity and beauty of this wine is something else on the nose, offering perfume, cedar, dried flower, black cherry, blueberry and crushed stone. Orange peel, too. Full-bodied with incredible layers of ultra-fine tannins that give this wine horizontal depth that almost seems endless. Extremely long and lightly chewy at the end. This is one for the cellar. Try after 2026.
99 points
JamesSuckling.com
Ripe and harmonious, this red features cherry and berry flavors augmented by earth, mineral, tobacco and thyme accents. Fresh and firms up as it winds down on the long, fruit-, mineral- and spice-tinged finish. Best from 2024 through 2042.
95 points
Bruce Sanderson - Wine Spectator
Delicate aromas recalling forest berry, rose, violet and wild herb shape the enticing nose. The savory, elegantly structured palate features juicy red cherry, spiced cranberry, star anise and a hint of tobacco set against taut, fine-grained tannins. Fresh acidity keeps it well balanced and focused. A wonderful expression of the fantastic vintage from one of Montalcino's most historic producers, it boasts great aging potential. Drink 2026–2046.
99 points
Kerin O'Keefe - Wine Enthusiast
Fuligni’s Riserva is born in the San Giovanni vineyard at Podere Cottimelli, the estate’s original site. It is a selection of the best bunches from vines averaging 50 years of age. The 2016 is currently a brooding beast, but a remarkably handsome one at close glance. It starts with polished leather and walnut skin before disclosing hints of lavender, anise and freshly turned earth. The structure is even denser and drier than the annata, but the fruit is also sweeter and more concentrated. Finely chiselled tannins wrap around black cherry and red plum, and with an intense mineral drive this is fully charged. It will take a few more years, however, to lay bare all of its lurking intricacies. Drinking Window 2025 - 2045.
98 points
Michaela Morris - Decanter

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2017 Fuligni Brunello di Montalcino Magnum (1500ml)

Tuscany, ITALY

$540. 00
Bottle
$6480.00 Dozen

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
The Fuligni 2017 Brunello di Montalcino is a beautiful wine, and it shines a much-deserved spotlight on one of the most consistent estates in Montalcino. It is bright and luminous with a dark ruby shine. The bouquet reveals deeply layered tones of red cherry, wild berry, rose, earth and candied violets. Give the wine an extra twirl or two, and you get some rosemary and lavender. Soft dusty mineral and limestone also appear. I'd definitely put this bottle on a short list of the most recommended bottles from the 2017 vintage. Drink 2024 - 2044.
95 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Feb 2022)
The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino is punchy and spry from the first tilt of the glass, featuring raspberry, roses, licorice and hints of flowery undergrowth. The bouquet darkens over time, taking on shades of cedar, along with blue and purple flowers. It’s silky, pliant and savory, masses of black cherry and spice filling the palate with silky textures that leave saturating minerals in their wake. This tapers off long, dry and primary, perfumed with violets and lavender, as cheek-puckering, tart red berries linger on. The 2017 may be a riper interpretation of Fuligni Brunello, but it has enough power and energy to be quite pleasurable and balanced over the medium term. All of the Riserva juice from 2017 went into the estate Brunello. Drink 2027-2027.
92 points
Eric Guido - Vinous
Plenty of complexity to this, with cherry, plum, blackberry and hints of cedar and stone. Full-bodied with layered, velvety tannins and a flavorful finish. Punctuated and defined for the 2017 vintage. Drinkable now, but better after 2023.
96 points
JamesSuckling.com
Mulled plum, cherry, earth and woodsy underbrush flavors mark this compact red, which is concentrated and balanced, delivering more power than finesse and complexity today. Best from 2025 through 2039.
92 points
Bruce Sanderson - Wine Spectator
This has aromas of camphor, cedar and oak-driven spice. On the tight, rather assertive palate, a backbone of fine-grained tannins underscore dried cherry, prune, licorice and tobacco. Drink 2024–2029.
92 points
Kerin O'Keefe - Wine Enthusiast
At 420 metres in Montalcino’s northeast, the Fuligni estate expands over 100 hectares, 14 of which are vineyards. Location provided some reprieve from the heat in 2017 and harvesting for Brunello began in mid-September. When I tasted this in September 2021, just three months after bottling, it was still very closed in its aromas. With coaxing, exotic suggestions of curry and anise surfaced furtively and eventually intrinsic ripeness became apparent. Nevertheless, the fruit remains fresh rather than macerated. A full and vigorous expression with grainy tannins that stretch out across the palate. Drinking Window 2024 - 2030.
93 points
Michaela Morris - Decanter

Delivery Information
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2017 Fuligni Brunello di Montalcino

Tuscany, ITALY

$240. 00
Bottle
$2880.00 Dozen

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
The Fuligni 2017 Brunello di Montalcino is a beautiful wine, and it shines a much-deserved spotlight on one of the most consistent estates in Montalcino. It is bright and luminous with a dark ruby shine. The bouquet reveals deeply layered tones of red cherry, wild berry, rose, earth and candied violets. Give the wine an extra twirl or two, and you get some rosemary and lavender. Soft dusty mineral and limestone also appear. I'd definitely put this bottle on a short list of the most recommended bottles from the 2017 vintage. Drink 2024 - 2044.
95 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Feb 2022)
The 2017 Brunello di Montalcino is punchy and spry from the first tilt of the glass, featuring raspberry, roses, licorice and hints of flowery undergrowth. The bouquet darkens over time, taking on shades of cedar, along with blue and purple flowers. It’s silky, pliant and savory, masses of black cherry and spice filling the palate with silky textures that leave saturating minerals in their wake. This tapers off long, dry and primary, perfumed with violets and lavender, as cheek-puckering, tart red berries linger on. The 2017 may be a riper interpretation of Fuligni Brunello, but it has enough power and energy to be quite pleasurable and balanced over the medium term. All of the Riserva juice from 2017 went into the estate Brunello. Drink 2027-2027.
92 points
Eric Guido - Vinous
Plenty of complexity to this, with cherry, plum, blackberry and hints of cedar and stone. Full-bodied with layered, velvety tannins and a flavorful finish. Punctuated and defined for the 2017 vintage. Drinkable now, but better after 2023.
96 points
JamesSuckling.com
Mulled plum, cherry, earth and woodsy underbrush flavors mark this compact red, which is concentrated and balanced, delivering more power than finesse and complexity today. Best from 2025 through 2039.
92 points
Bruce Sanderson - Wine Spectator
This has aromas of camphor, cedar and oak-driven spice. On the tight, rather assertive palate, a backbone of fine-grained tannins underscore dried cherry, prune, licorice and tobacco. Drink 2024–2029.
92 points
Kerin O'Keefe - Wine Enthusiast
At 420 metres in Montalcino’s northeast, the Fuligni estate expands over 100 hectares, 14 of which are vineyards. Location provided some reprieve from the heat in 2017 and harvesting for Brunello began in mid-September. When I tasted this in September 2021, just three months after bottling, it was still very closed in its aromas. With coaxing, exotic suggestions of curry and anise surfaced furtively and eventually intrinsic ripeness became apparent. Nevertheless, the fruit remains fresh rather than macerated. A full and vigorous expression with grainy tannins that stretch out across the palate. Drinking Window 2024 - 2030.
93 points
Michaela Morris - Decanter

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2019 G.D. Vajra Barolo Albe

Piedmont, ITALY

$99. 99
Bottle
$1199.88 Dozen

Cellar: 6 - 8 Years (2029-2031)

ABV: 14%

Closure: Cork

Very dark red in colour with black shaded edges and a rusty shade of red hue. Fragrant rose petal infused scents of red currant and red liquorice meld into earthy black olive, tobacco and spicy dried herb notes. Energetic red currant and red raspberry fruits are framed by lively acidity and stern tannins which impart a taut chiselled feel. Earth, tobacco and spicy dried herb elements lie underneath. Finishes dry, rustic and tightly wound.
Cellar 6-8 years.
Alc. 14%
Other Reviews….
This is certainly one of the most popular and versatile wines made in Italy, and deservedly so. The well-priced G.D. Vajra 2019 Barolo Albe shows some ripe fruit and softness with cherry, dried raspberry and crushed rose. This vintage is similar in character to the 2016 release in that both vintages offer a linear style with good structure at the back. The mouthfeel is polished and long, affording accessibility and complexity too. Drink 2024 - 2038.
94 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (August 2023)
The 2019 Barolo Albe is a nuanced, understated wine, but it is also a rare Albe that needs time in bottle. Sweet floral and spice notes open first, leading to an attractive core of Nebbiolo fruit. Gentle and understated, with lovely precision, the 2019 Albe is a hushed wine that is more about energy than size. I have seen the Albe really blossom with a few years in bottle. I expect that will be the case here as well given its super-classic feel. Drink 2024 - 2034.
91 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous
A firm and polished red with berries and spices, like nutmeg and pepper. Orange peel, too. Medium body. Fresh and energetic finish. Drink after 2026.
93 Points
JamesSuckling.com
The G.D. Vajra estate is based within the commune of Barolo, with the entire family contributing and Giuseppe and Aldo Vajra at the helm of the winemaking responsibilities. Giuseppe, who took more of a leadership role in 2008, has been instrumental in continuing to develop the family estate, while Isidoro Vajra leads in vineyard management. Most recently they have completed the expansion of their cellar space and offices. They are also now releasing their wines a touch later to allow for additional time in bottle to soften any harsh edges. As of the 2019 vintage, both the G.D. Vajra and Luigi Baudana estates are certified organic.
The 2019 Barolo Albe offers aromas of pressed roses, apricot, and tea leaf that are followed by a wine with great tension and balance, medium body, driving notes of orange citrus and dusty earth, and a clean finish. It is long and fresh on the palate. Drink 2024-2036.
92 Points
Audrey Frick – JebDunnuck.com

Delivery Information
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2019 G.D. Vajra Barolo Coste di Rose

Piedmont, ITALY

$160. 00
Bottle
$1920.00 Dozen

ABV: 14%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
Compared to Bricco delle Viole, Coste di Rose is distinguished by sandstone soils at lower elevations of 340 to 350 meters above sea level. There is a lot of variability in the soils, and as they change, Nebbiolo behaves differently, picking up new aromas and textural qualities along the way. The G.D. Vajra 2019 Barolo Coste di Rose shows a darker core of fruit with dusty earthy tones and campfire ash. The grape skins were quite thick in 2019, meaning that less work was done with submerged cap and other extractive methods. The beauty of this wine is the mouthfeel, which feels rich, tight and silky. Coste di Rose was first made in 2015. Drink 2025 - 2045.
95 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (August 2023)
The 2019 Barolo Coste di Rose is the most open of the vineyard designates, but is not the easygoing Barolo it has often been in the past. Bright acids and veins of supporting tannin give the 2019 its taut, rather nervous feel. Crushed red berry fruit, mint, spice flowers and earthy tones all develop with a bit of time in the glass. There is a bit of nervousness in the tannin that needs to soften, but all the elements are nicely balanced. Drink 2026 - 2039.
93 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous
Very perfumed with fresh roses and lilacs as well as cherries and raspberries. Medium-bodied with firm tannins and a slightly fluid center palate, but should fill in nicely with bottle age. From organically grown grapes. Better in a few years.
92 points
jamessuckling.com
Taking on a jeweled ruby appearance, the 2019 Barolo Coste Di Rose displays a bit more depth in its aromas of raspberry, pure cherry, and sweet floral perfume. Revealing a lovely, fine tannin structure on the palate, it is an approachable red with a gentle arch to its notes of sandy soil and crushed stones as well as its soft texture on the finish. This is an elegant wine with a lot of charm to drink now or over the next 10 to 15 years.
93+ points
Audrey Frick - jebdunnuck.com

Delivery Information
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2017 G.D. Vajra Barolo Ravera

Piedmont, ITALY

$180. 00
Bottle
$2160.00 Dozen

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
The G.D. Vajra 2017 Barolo Ravera shows solid build and consistency, with more rich and saturated fruit compared to the other Barolo releases from this historic estate. The Ravera cru offers broad shoulders with a tight textural fabric. That powerful approach makes a good sounding board for the wine's dark cherry, plum, dark mineral and spice flavors. This is more of a red meat wine. Drink 2024 - 2040.
94+ points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (June 2021)

The 2017 Barolo Ravera is gorgeous right out of the gate. I am so impressed with its depth and pedigree. Rose petal, sweet red berry fruit, lavender, spice and dried herbs are all finely delineated in a Barolo of tremendous presence. Orange peel, cinnamon and cedar develop later, adding shades of dimension. Time in the glass brings out the wine's stature and power. The 2017 is going to be fascinating to follow. Today, it is just breathtaking. That's all there is to it. Drink 2025 - 2042.
95 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous

Very floral with pure fruit, such as cherries and raspberries. It’s full-bodied with ultra fine tannins that are energetic and focused. The center palate shows such wonderful fruit character, yet it’s weightless and energetic. Try after 2026.
96 points
James Suckling

From the township of Novello and from what is now widely recognized as one of the denomination's top vineyard sites, this is just stunning, offering intense aromas of wild berries, new leather, floral notes, camphor and grilled herb. The delicious, structured palate shows finesse and power, featuring ripe red cherry, blood orange, cedar, licorice and mineral notes suggesting tangy iron. Noble tannins provide support. Reflecting the vintage, this won't need years to come around but will also age well for at least another decade. Drink 2022–2032.
97 points
Kerin O'Keefe - Wine Enthusiast

Delivery Information
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2017 G.D. Vajra Barolo Bricco delle Viole

Piedmont, ITALY

$180. 00
Bottle
$2160.00 Dozen

ABV: 15%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
The G.D. Vajra 2017 Barolo Bricco delle Viole is packed with medium dark cherry fruit and plum. The wine also shows a savory side, with spice, hazelnut cream, licorice and lightly fragrant potting soil. This vintage sits solid on the palate, wrapping thickly over the senses, thanks to its creamy, fruit-driven consistency and well-managed tannins. These vines are high in elevation, ranging from 400 to 480 meters in altitude. Those higher elevations are key to interpreting a vintage that saw heat such as this. Drink 2024 - 2040.
95 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (June 2021)

The 2017 Barolo Bricco delle Viole is classy and elegant to the core. Medium in body and wonderfully translucent, the 2017 captures all of the finesse of this site. Naturally, the 2017 also shows the ripeness of the year, but it retains its sublime sense of poise. The 2017 Bricco delle Viole is one of the clear stand outs of the year. Drink 2025 - 2042.
95 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous

Aromas of ripe strawberries and flowers follow through to a full body with firm, chewy tannins that are silky and very polished. That palate is very clear and precise. Attractive, if chewy finish. Try after 2024.
95 points
James Suckling

Aromas of underbrush, pine forest, woodland berries and cedar form the enticing nose. Full-bodied and savory, the structured palate delivers ripe Morello cherry, raspberry compote, star anise and cinnamon before closing on pipe tobacco notes. Tightly knit but refined tannins provide the backbone, while surprisingly fresh acidity for the hot vintage keeps it balanced. Drink 2024–2032.
96 points
Kerin O'Keefe - Wine Enthusiast

Delivery Information
- 93
- 93
- 94
2017 G.D. Vajra Barolo Coste di Rose

Piedmont, ITALY

$150. 00
Bottle
$1800.00 Dozen

ABV: 14%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
With fruit from higher-elevation vineyards in the village of Barolo, the 2017 Barolo Coste di Rose is quite elegantly downplayed and fragile. The wine reveals wild berry, cassis and lots of blue flower or lilac. A pretty mineral note recalls crushed limestone and is present through the long and polished mouthfeel. This wine overperforms, considering the challenges of this vintage that saw extreme weather, from spring frost to scorching summer temperatures. These vineyard sites performed better than most. Drink 2024 - 2038.
94 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (June 2021)

The 2017 Barolo Coste di Rose is pretty, supple and inviting. Some of the tannins need to resolve, but this is a young Barolo after all. The Coste di Rose doesn't have the sensuality of the Albe or the pedigree of the Viole, but it nevertheless has so much to give. Crushed flowers, sweet red berry fruit, mint, crushed rocks and sage are some of the many notes that linger. I won't be surprised if the 2017 is even better than this note suggests once it softens a bit. Drink 2025 - 2042.
93 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous

Sweet-strawberry, flower, iodine and stone aromas follow through to a full body with firm, polished tannins that show finesse and form. Give it a year or two to soften and come together. Try after 2023.
93 points
James Suckling

Wild berry, menthol and tilled earth aromas mingle with whiffs of dark spice. Linear and savory, the lithe palate is already immediate, featuring juicy raspberry, red cherry, crushed mint and star anise accompanied by taut, polished tannins. Tangy acidity keeps it fresh and bright.
96 points
Kerin O'Keefe - Wine Enthusiast

Delivery Information
- 93
2015 G.D. Vajra Barolo Bricco delle Viole

Piedmont, ITALY

$180. 00
Bottle
$2160.00 Dozen

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
The flagship Barolo Bricco delle Viole is quite understated and gracious in 2015. Medium in body, with the persistent tannins that are so typical of this site, the 2015 is lithe, focused and full of energy. The warm vintage notwithstanding, in 2015, Vajra's Bricco delle Viole is distinctly sinewy and tense. It will offer considerable appeal to readers who find some of the other 2015 Barolos too open and giving in their youthful stage. Kirsch, rose petal, mint and chalky notes build into a finely cut finish. Time in the glass softens some of the youthful, austere contours, but this remains a 2015 Barolo that needs time in bottle to be at its very best.
93 Points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous

Delivery Information
- 92
2020 Gheddo Dolcetto d’Alba

Piedmont, ITALY

$44. 99
Bottle
$539.88 Dozen

Minimum 12 bottles

Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2023-2027)

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Cork

Totally opaque black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Aromas of ripe dark cherry and blackberry merge into subtle liquorice, earth and spicy tobacco notes. Fleshy dark cherry and liquorice fruits are featured across the mid weighted palate with notions of earth, tobacco and dried herbs lying underneath. Spicy finish with firm, slightly grainy tannins. Bright acidity and a savoury yet touch rustic aftertaste.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Delivery Information
- 93
2020 Gia Langhe Rosso

Piedmont, ITALY

$33. 99
Bottle
$407.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2021-2025)

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Pro Cork

A joyous blend of Barbera, Dolcetto and Nebbiolo that’s fresh, youthful and bursting with juicy ripe fruit. Inky black heart with a bright dark purple hue. Freshly crushed ripe berry scents of cherry and raspberry mix with liquorice, infusions of fresh herbs, inky earth and spice. Bouncing around the mouth are rich, succulent dark cherry, raspberry and liquorice fruits with infusions of fresh herbs, subtle inky earth and spice characters also evident. Polished, slightly chewy tannins finishing with a lively freshness and long juicy aftertaste.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Delivery Information
- 95
- 94
2018 Giacomo Conterno Francia Barolo

Piedmont, ITALY

$720. 00
Bottle
$8640.00 Dozen

ABV: 15%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
Of the three Barolo samples I tasted from barrel (including Arione and Cerretta, which are also from Serralunga d'Alba), the Giacomo Conterno 2018 Barolo Francia was the furthest behind and the hardest to pin down at this stage in its infancy. I have opened my range of scores accordingly to compensate for the magical unknowns that are likely to occur as the wine moves toward greater harmony and integration before its commercial release. The wine is linear and pointedly focused, lacking the width and volume it will gain when given more time to flesh out and relax. The aromas are also quite primary and simple at this point, with dark cherry and even a hint of ripe strawberry ceding gradually to grilled herb, blue flower and baked brick. This vintage of Barolo Francia will require patience. Drink 2027 - 2055.
94-97 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Dec 2021)
The 2018 Barolo Francia is powerful, deep and also a touch austere. It shows the edginess of all the 2018s, but also has a feeling of textural creaminess that adds tons of character. Spice, menthol, leather and a whole range of balsamic overtones build into the deep, imposing finish. Roberto Conterno decided to forego his Barolo Monfortino in 2018, opting instead to blend all the casks into his Francia bottling. When that happens, Francia often surprises down the road. That could very well turn out to be the case here. Drink 2024-2043.
95+ points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous

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2015 Giuseppe Quintarelli Alzero

Veneto, ITALY

$850. 00
Bottle
$10200.00 Dozen

ABV: 16.5%

Closure: Cork

Giuseppe Quintarelli was known as ‘the Master of the Veneto’, and is the name behind one of the most renowned estates in Italy. Sadly, Giuseppe passed away in early 2012 and he leaves behind a legacy of producing remarkable wines with an outstanding philosophy, to his eldest daughter who continues to carry on the tradition of this great estate. With their easily recognisable hand scripted labels, these wines offer at glimpse into one of the world’s most faithful artisanal winemakers who was an ultimate believer in letting nature do her thing and in order for wines to reach their ultimate potential these wines were only released when he deemed them to be ready.
Quintarelli's Alzero has a cult following among his devotees with a reputation rivalling their benchmark Amarone. Using a blend of approximately 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Cabernet Franc, and 20% Merlot, the wine is made with the same appassimento drying technique as the Amarone which concentrates and intensifies the flavours. Following drying of between 60 to 100 days the grapes are put into vat and pressed after 20 days of maceration, and unlike other wines in the range, ageing for Alzero is done all in barriques. The first 24-36 months are spent in French barrels before being transferred to Slavonian oak for approximately 48 months before bottling.

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2016 Giuseppe Quintarelli Rosso Del Bepi

Veneto, ITALY

$399. 00
Bottle
$4788.00 Dozen

ABV: 15.5%

Closure: Cork

Giuseppe Quintarelli was known as ‘the Master of the Veneto’, and is the name behind one of the most renowned estates in Italy. Sadly, Giuseppe passed away in early 2012 and he leaves behind a legacy of producing remarkable wines with an outstanding philosophy, to his eldest daughter who continues to carry on the tradition of this great estate. With their easily recognisable hand scripted labels, these wines offer at glimpse into one of the world’s most faithful artisanal winemakers who was an ultimate believer in letting nature do her thing and in order for wines to reach their ultimate potential these wines were only released when he deemed them to be ready.
Quintarelli's Rosso del Bepi is an extremely special declassified Amarone made in the 'average' vintages when Amarone is not produced. The final decision on which wine will be released is made just a few months before bottling but in the most difficult years, neither of these wines will be produced. This wine reflects classic Amarone blend of Corvina, Corvinone and Rondinella (with a smaller percentage of other varieties mixed in for good measure). It will offer immediate pleasure but for those of us who have the patience to wait, these wines will continue to evolve and gain complexity.

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2016 Giuseppe Quintarelli Rosso Ca del Merlo

Veneto, ITALY

$260. 00
Bottle
$3120.00 Dozen

ABV: 15%

Closure: Cork

Giuseppe Quintarelli was known as ‘the Master of the Veneto’, and is the name behind one of the most renowned estates in Italy. Sadly, Giuseppe passed away in early 2012 and he leaves behind a legacy of producing remarkable wines with an outstanding philosophy, to his eldest daughter who continues to carry on the tradition of this great estate. With their easily recognisable hand scripted labels, these wines offer at glimpse into one of the world’s most faithful artisanal winemakers who was an ultimate believer in letting nature do her thing and in order for wines to reach their ultimate potential these wines were only released when he deemed them to be ready.
This wine is one of their single vineyard bottling - typically made from Corvina, Rondinella, Cabernet Franc and supporting varieties - the Ca’ del Merlo is aged for seven years before bottling. It undergoes a second fermentation in contact with the lees of Quintarelli’s Amarone, in the Italian tradition of Ripasso, thereby utilising byproducts of the legendary latter to add a layer of complexity to the already high-quality base wine.

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2016 Giuseppe Quintarelli Valpolicella Classico Superiore

Veneto, ITALY

$260. 00
Bottle
$3120.00 Dozen

ABV: 15%

Closure: Cork

Giuseppe Quintarelli was known as ‘the Master of the Veneto’, and is the name behind one of the most renowned estates in Italy. Sadly, Giuseppe passed away in early 2012 and he leaves behind a legacy of producing remarkable wines with an outstanding philosophy, to his eldest daughter who continues to carry on the tradition of this great estate. With their easily recognisable hand scripted labels, these wines offer at glimpse into one of the world’s most faithful artisanal winemakers who was an ultimate believer in letting nature do her thing and in order for wines to reach their ultimate potential these wines were only released when he deemed them to be ready.
Valpolicella Classico Superiore from Quintarelli is no ordinary Valpolicella and is released much later than most from the region after around seven years of ageing. Half of grapes are pressed after a 3-4 day maceration, while the other half is air dried for approximately two months. The wine then undergoes a second fermentation in contact with the lees of Quintarelli’s Amarone, in the Italian tradition of Ripasso, thereby utilising by-products of the legendary latter to add a layer of complexity to the already high-quality base wine. Quintarelli's Valpolicella shows outstanding depth and complexity, and would put many other producers' Amarone bottling to shame.

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2015 Giuseppe Quintarelli Rosso Ca del Merlo

Veneto, ITALY

$240. 00
Bottle
$2880.00 Dozen

ABV: 15%

Closure: Cork

Giuseppe Quintarelli was known as ‘the Master of the Veneto’, and is the name behind one of the most renowned estates in Italy. Sadly, Giuseppe passed away in early 2012 and he leaves behind a legacy of producing remarkable wines with an outstanding philosophy, to his eldest daughter who continues to carry on the tradition of this great estate. With their easily recognisable hand scripted labels, these wines offer at glimpse into one of the world’s most faithful artisanal winemakers who was an ultimate believer in letting nature do her thing and in order for wines to reach their ultimate potential these wines were only released when he deemed them to be ready.
This wine is one of their single vineyard bottling - typically made from Corvina, Rondinella, Cabernet Franc and supporting varieties - the Ca’ del Merlo is aged for seven years before bottling. It undergoes a second fermentation in contact with the lees of Quintarelli’s Amarone, in the Italian tradition of Ripasso, thereby utilising byproducts of the legendary latter to add a layer of complexity to the already high-quality base wine.

Delivery Information
- 94
- 96
2015 Giuseppe Quintarelli Amarone della Valpolicella Classico

Veneto, ITALY

$699. 00
Bottle
$8388.00 Dozen

ABV: 16.5%

Closure: Cork

Giuseppe Quintarelli was known as ‘the Master of the Veneto’, and is the name behind one of the most renowned estates in Italy. Sadly, Giuseppe passed away in early 2012 and he leaves behind a legacy of producing remarkable wines with an outstanding philosophy, to his eldest daughter who continues to carry on the tradition of this great estate. With their easily recognisable hand scripted labels, these wines offer at glimpse into one of the world’s most faithful artisanal winemakers who was an ultimate believer in letting nature do her thing and in order for wines to reach their ultimate potential these wines were only released when he deemed them to be ready.
Only produced in exceptional years, Amarone from Quintarelli is one of the great wines of the world and one every wine lover should experience at least once in their lifetime. Attention to detail is critical during the drying process ensuring a natural and even result. The wine is aged for around seven years, and alcoholic fermentation occurs during this time to produce a dry wine at the end. Despite the elevated alcohol levels, this Amarone is light and lively on the palate, and displays an incredibly complex array of flavours even as a young wine.
Other Reviews....
Elegant and graceful, the Giuseppe Quintarelli 2015 Amarone della Valpollicella Classico shows a little more textural weight and intensity that is in line with this vintage that saw easily ripened fruit over a very warm and sunny growing season. The house style prizes a tight and linear approach with dried fruit aromas, pressed rose, apple chips, camphor ash and fragrant lavender bud. The mouthfeel in 2015 is both generous and focused (and fueled in part by a powerful 16.5% alcohol content) with an especially long-lasting finish. Drink 2025 - 2055.
96 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Oct 06, 2023)
There's an almost-woodsy character to the 2015 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico. It opens with a complex blend of woodland herbs and underbrush giving way to wild berries, cinnamon sticks, shaved cedar and crushed rocks. It's surprisingly energetic yet still quite potent, with an intense wave of ripe red fruits offset by hints of spiced citrus and cloves. This finishes remarkably long, yet it maintains a vibrancy seldom seen from Amarone, as autumnal spices and staining of raspberry preserves taper off under an air of violet-tinged florals. Drink 2025-2035.
94 points
Eric Guido - Vinous

Delivery Information
- Organic
2019 Gorelli Brunello di Montalcino

Tuscany, ITALY

$260. 00
Bottle
$3120.00 Dozen

ABV: 14%

Closure: Cork

Gorelli may be one of the freshest additions to Montalcino's wineries, but its proprietor and winemaker, Giuseppe Gorelli, is far from a newcomer to the area. A native of Montalcino, Giuseppe honed his craft under the tutelage of Sangiovese maestro Giulio Gambelli at the Consorzio di Brunello di Montalcino for fifteen years. Following this, he ventured back to his family's winery, Due Portine, before ultimately founding the esteemed Le Potazzine. In 2017, he went out on his own and secured a lease on six hectares situated north of the town center. These vineyards, positioned in the coolest part of the DOCG at an elevation of 340 meters and oriented towards the northeast, produce sophisticated and exquisitely fragrant Sangiovese.

Delivery Information
- 92
- 92
2020 Il Marroneto Ignaccio Rosso di Montalcino

Tuscany, ITALY

$115. 00
Bottle
$1380.00 Dozen

ABV: 14%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
The entry-level Il Marroneto 2020 Rosso di Montalcino Ignaccio already gives you an idea of the house style. This wine is bright and vibrant with red cherry, lilac and a hint of white pepper. It ages in large oak cask for 22 months. Honestly, I would rather drink this Rosso compared to many of the Brunellos in this report that cost three times as much. It ends with easy, sweet fruit flavors. This is a 6,000-bottle release. Drink: 2023-2028.
92 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (March 2023)
The 2020 Rosso di Montalcino Ignaccio bursts from the glass with a bright and vibrant mix of spiced cherries, exotic red florals, and cinnamon sugar. While elegant to the extreme, there’s an energy within that stimulates the palate, as ripe berries and a hint of crushed violet candies wash across the palate. The 2020 maintains amazing balance, tapering off lively and wickedly fresh with a hint of lingering hard candies and lavender. It’s amazing how Il Marroneto is able to cull such a fruit-centric yet also totally harmonious Rosso year after year. Drink: 2023-2026.
92 points
Eric Guido - Vinous

Delivery Information
- 93
- 93
2020 Il Marroneto Selezione Iacopo Rosso di Montalcino

Tuscany, ITALY

$199. 00
Bottle
$2388.00 Dozen

ABV: 14%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
The Il Marroneto 2020 Rosso di Montalcino Iacopo (with 3,330 bottles released) opens to a darker garnet color and richer saturation compared to the Ignaccio. That extra fruit weight translates to aromas of plum and black cherry. The freshness of the fruit is intact, and this wine is very bright and energetic in terms of mouthfeel. The richer fruit profile sets this wine up for a plate of pasta with sausage or with drops of truffle oil. Drink: 2023-2030.
93 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (March 2023)
The 2020 Rosso di Montalcino Selezione Iacopo is a dusty and perfumed beauty in the glass. This wafts up with notes of dried strawberry, plums, stone dust and hints of sweet spice. It coasts along the palate with grace, carried by brilliant acidity, with a balanced inner sweetness that evolves into a salty flourish of minerality toward the close. The 2020 finishes persistent, with a fine web of tannins that punctuates things perfectly. With just a few years of cellaring, this will be a dreamy Rosso with a broad and open drinking window. Only 3,000 bottles were produced. Drink: 2024-2029.
93+ points
Eric Guido - Vinous

Delivery Information
- 97
- 97
2018 Il Marroneto Madonna delle Grazie Brunello di Montalcino

Tuscany, ITALY

$750. 00
Bottle
$9000.00 Dozen

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
The Il Marroneto 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Madonna delle Grazie reveals elegance and power all in one go. The fruit quality is crisp and tonic, yet the wine supports mid-weight concentration and a more elaborate style. This vintage from Il Marroneto has two personalities. On the one hand, you get a wine that is packed with beautiful primary fruit but that is slightly more immediate; on the other, you get a wine that promises good aging thanks to its freshness and the silky tannins that melt onto the palate. It is young but also aged. It is racy but also complex. Fruit comes from the vineyard under the Madonna delle Grazie chapel, and the wine ages in special oak casks for 41 months. This is a production of 8,500 bottles. Drink: 2025-2045.
97 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (March 2023)
The 2018 Brunello di Montalcino Madonna delle Grazie takes its time opening in the glass, complex and darkly alluring with its musky red currants and savory spices, yet with swirling pretty rose tones. A hint of sweet smoke comes forward to add lovely contrast. Its textures are like liquid velvet, with a chalky mineral staining that comes on quickly, which is perfectly balanced by a massive wave of dark red berries; yet through it all, balance is expertly maintained by streamlined acidity that creates a sense of total inner harmony. The 2018 leaves a structured sensation, yet its tannins are silky and fine, coupled with a violet pastille and lavender resonance that I find wildly attractive. Of note, I’ve tasted this wine over the last two years and followed this recent bottle over the course of 48 hours; at which point it never faltered and only increased in depth and complexity. Il Marroneto’s 2018 Madonna delle Grazie is unquestionably one of the top three wines of the vintage. My hat is off to Alessandro Mori, and his team. Drink: 2025-2033.
97 points
Eric Guido - Vinous

Delivery Information
- 93
- 93
2018 Il Marroneto Ignaccio Rosso di Montalcino

Tuscany, ITALY

$99. 99
Bottle
$1199.88 Dozen

ABV: 14%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
The 2018 Rosso di Montalcino Ignaccio is flat-out delicious with a woodland and almost-autumnal profile. Wild strawberries, blueberries, lavender and sage mix with hints of cinnamon and flowery undergrowth. It’s silky-smooth, almost velvety in feel yet perfectly balanced and full of life, displaying ripe wild berry fruit and inner violet florals. There’s enough structure here to carry the 2018 for a number of years in the cellar, but who can keep their hands off of it today? Alessandro Mori selects his Rosso from the same barrels he uses to make Brunello, yet after only a year of aging. Drink 2020 - 2026.
93 points
Eric Guido - Vinous
Fiercely traditional and a consistently good craftsman of wine, Alessandro Mori is becoming one of Montalcino's top producers for its globally recognised cru, 'Madonna delle Grazie'. His Rosso, Ignaccio is no less detail-oriented. This wine is usually made from declassified estate Brunello, grown on the northern side of the village where it is cooler, and situated on some of the oldest limestone soil in Montalcino. This 2018 is an intoxicating Rosso with purity of fresh raspberry, yellow gentian and star anise. There is cherry fruit in depth, with great savouriness over the palate. The tannins are firm and chalky - typical of Sangiovese from cooler areas - without any bitterness, while the acidity pushes the fruit to an outstanding orange peel finish. Drinking Window 2021 - 2027.
93 points
Aldo Fiordelli - Decanter

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Buy Italian Wine Online.

Many decades ago, Australians were slowly becoming acquainted with mass produced Italian wines that reflected high yields and generally inferior-quality. They were the Lambruscos, Frascatis, Spumantes and basket Chiantis synonymous with cheap & cheerful Italian restaurants. Since the industry has been modernised, the range and (more importantly) the quality of Italian wines has developed exponentially. The very best examples combine distinct regionality with contemporary winemaking flair. Frequently leading the way are small grower-producers at the high end of the passion scale. Nicks Wine Merchants continue to offer a selection of Italian wines as well as traditional Italian liqueurs & aperitifs which you can buy online and have shipped to most areas of Australia.

Italian appellations: a myriad of regions and grape varieties.

In the 1960's, a national effort to raise the country's profile brought about the first controlled-appellation laws, although only a relatively small percentage of Italian wines were certified. The Italian government created two designations, 'Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita', or "DOCG" for the highest quality of wine; and 'Denominazione di Origine Controllata', or "DOC" for quality wines. A third also exists for table wines called 'Vino da Tavola'. The system dictates guidelines to ensure that wines are made according to certain rules that regulate the type of grape(s), the area of production, the maximum amount of tonnage in the vineyard, the minimum alcohol, total acidity, the aging of the wine in wood (if applicable) as well as in bottle, and so on. The Italian system has been controversial with some of the most notable bottlings of recent decades being those that actually break the DOCG rules.

The reality is that Italy is too large and too diverse for its wines to be separated into two or three simplistic categories. Like France, the wine landscape is best thought of as a group of regions and sub regions and wine styles can vary dramatically. There are the richer, riper, fruit filled efforts of the warm south, the tannic, long lived, medium to full bodied dry reds of the central zone, and the pretty, floral, more feminine styles of the far north. The wines are generally food-friendly and less overpowering than those that many Australians will be used to.

Common Italian Wine Label terms.

Tenuta - a large estate or property
Fattoria - a medium to large wine growing property
Podere/Poderi - a small wine farm or property, sometimes part of a fattoria
Vigna/Vigneto - a single demarcated vineyard with a particular name (like "Smith Vineyard")
Feudo/Feudi - a fief or estate held on feudal tenure
Azienda Agricola - a crop producing farm, not necessarily limited to wine production, that grows all its own grapes
Azienda (Casa) Vinicola - same as azienda agricola but also buys grapes grown elsewhere for their wines

There are other words that refer to various geologies or terrains that are sometimes included in wine producers' names:

Ronchi - terrace
Ronco - hillside vineyard
Bricco/Bric - high, steep ridge vineyard (usually assumed to be of high quality)
Colli - hills
Poggio - mound or knoll
Sore - vineyard site of the highest quality, usually facing south
Valle - valley, dale

Lastly, there are words that refer to wine property buildings or the producers themselves.

Cantina - a cellar, winery or wine shop
Villa - town house
Castello - castle
Cascina - the house on a farm property where not only wine is produced
Produttore/Produttori - producer, grower
Viticoltore/Vignaiolo - vine grower

A more in depth guide to Italian wines has been produced here to enhance your appreciation and help you in your choice.

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Italy

Buy Italian Wine Online.

Italian appellations: a myriad of regions and grape varieties.

Common Italian Wine Label terms.