Imported Red Wines
7,965 products
- Swartland, SOUTH AFRICA$42.99$42.99Bottle$515.88DozenABV: 13%Closure: Stelvin
Other Reviews....
Aromas of sliced strawberries, red cherries and rooibos tea. Medium-bodied with juicy texture. Soft tannins keep the fresh red and blue berry palate in line. Easygoing appeal. A grenache-based blend with both red and white grapes added. Drink now. Screw cap.
89 Points
JamesSuckling.comThis is a blend of all the grapes from the farm, white and red.
Bright and crunchy, red fruited and slightly savoury, has good spice detail, fine tannins cinching things well. Beautifully fresh and perfumed, vitality in spades and a thirst-quenching deliciousness. So vibrant, moreish and lingers with chewy, powdery-minerally character for ages. Such a delight. Drink cold! Fun. Drink 2022 - 2025.
93 Points
Mike Bennie - The Wine Front - Swartland, SOUTH AFRICA$160.00$160.00Bottle$1,920.00DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: Diam Cork
Other Reviews....
Pretty aromas of sliced strawberries, grated nutmeg, moss and walnut. Medium-bodied with supple tannins that run the length of the wine. Perfumed and floral on the palate with subtle red fruit concentration. Textural and delicate. From vines planted in 1952. Sustainable. Drink or hold.
93 Points
JamesSuckling.com - Mendoza, ARGENTINA$21.99$21.99Bottle$263.88DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 13%Closure: Stelvin
A juicy, flavour filled Malbec that makes for super everyday drinking.
Alamos is the entry level label for Argentinian giant Catena offering the best of Mendoza’s high altitude vineyards at an incredible price. Grown on foothills of the Andes Mountains at elevations of 3,000 to 5,000 feet, the intense sunlight, cool evening temperatures and mineral-rich irrigation from melted mountain snow translates to a rich wine with intense flavour characteristics.
A blend of 90% Malbec and 10% Bonarda aged for between 6-8 months in French oak. Deep black dark red core with a dark red hue. Elevated dark to black cherry, ripe blueberry and liquorice scents make their way out of the glass followed by some dried herb, scorched earth and spice notes. The juicy, mid weighted palate is filled with rich dark to black cherry, liquorice and blueberry fruits. Sitting in the background are spicy dried herb and scorched earth elements. Fine grained tannins with a long, ripe, well fleshed finish. One of the best Alamos Malbecs to date.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13% - Piedmont, ITALY$150.00$150.00Bottle$1,800.00DozenABV: 14.5%Closure: Cork
Other Reviews....
The Albino Rocca 2021 Barbaresco Ronchi shows a dusty mineral quality that adds to the elegance of the bouquet. Beyond that, you get nicely ripened Nebbiolo fruit with wild cherry and redcurrant. It fleshes out over the palate with tart flavors and chalky tannins. Production is 9,000 bottles. Drink 2026-2040.
94 points
Monica Larner - Robert Parker's Wine AdvocateThe 2021 Barbaresco Ronchi comes across as a bit youthfully austere relative to some of the other wines in the range. Chalk, mint, white pepper, scorched earth and strong mineral notes infuse the Ronchi with tremendous power to match its sinewy, driving personality. This vivid, sculpted Barbaresco is hugely promising. Drink 2026-2036.
95 points
Antonio Galloni - VinousRed berries, orange peel, dried lavender and crushed stones on the nose. Medium-bodied, restrained and polished, with a dusty texture to its tannins. Dry and a little chalky at the end. Try from 2027.
93 points
James Suckling - 98
- 96
- Nicks Import
2020 AlmavivaValle de Maipo, CHILE$380.00$380.00Bottle$4,560.00DozenABV: 15%Closure: CorkAlmaviva is the ambitious partnership of the Baron Philippe de Rothschild group (Bordeaux) and Viña Concha y Toro (Chile) with the intention of creating a wine of exceptional character, complexity and ageing potential from extraordinary Chilean terroir. Launched with the 1996 vintage, consistent vineyard improvements and meticulous winemaking today mark Almaviva as one of the finest wines produced in Chile.
The 2020 vintage is adorned with a special anniversary label to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the winery.Other Reviews....
Fresh and deep nose, full of blueberries, minty cassis, mussels, cigars, dark spice and roasted sesame oak, which will need a year or two to fully integrate. A medium-to full-bodied Almaviva with supple, silky tannins and a wealth of black and blue fruit that provides a lot of charm now. Voluptuous and flattering on the palate, hallmarked by its tension and taut texture. Very long. This is the 25th anniversary bottling. 68% cabernet sauvignon, 24% carmenere, 6% cabernet franc and 2% petit verdot. Drinkable now, but better from 2024.
98 points
James Suckling2020 was exceptionally dry, with 75% less rain than usual in the period between May and September, which resulted in an earlier harvest to produce a 2020 Almaviva with 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Carmenère (from Peumo), 6% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot, so with no Merlot this time. The process was as careful as possible, without using any bombs, doing manual and optical sorting of the grapes, pressing in small vertical presses and aging of 20 months in French oak barrels, 73% of them new and the rest second use. The wine reached good ripeness with 14.9% alcohol. It still shows the effect of the élevage a bit, with abundant notes of sweet spices, a creamy touch and some smoke. I tasted it next to the 2019, and the wines have a very similar aromatic palette with a clear note of baked peppers. What was amazing in 2020 was that they harvested the Carmenere almost five weeks earlier than they normally would, and the result is not a green wine at all. As in all dry years, the wines show a little more tannic, a little in the style of the 2017—but the 2020 has more tension than the 2017, and the 2017 was more powerful and with a bigger tannic structure. The 2019 had more volume than the 2018, and the 2020 is closer to the 2019 than the 2018. 200,000 bottles produced. It was bottled during the second half of February 2022. Drink: 2024 - 2036.
96 points
Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate- Museum Release
2006 Amancaya Malbec Cabernet Sauvignon - Museum ReleaseMendoza, ARGENTINA$29.99$29.99Bottle$359.88DozenABV: 14%Closure: CorkPlease note: this back vintage wine has been professionally cellared in ideal conditions at Nicks for many years, and we have tasted and approved the quality of the stock offered. However, due to the age and natural bottle variation of older wines, we cannot guarantee that every bottle will be perfect and we are unable to offer refunds or replacements for bottles that may show faults or variation. Although we doubt there will be faults - please purchase with this in mind. Due to the age of this wine, some bottles may show signs of advanced maturity and we recommend enjoying it sooner rather than further cellaring.
Amancaya is a unique collaboration between Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) and Argentina’s renowned Catena family, combining French winemaking expertise with the exceptional high-altitude terroirs of Mendoza. Named after a native Andean flower, this wine is crafted from equal parts Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon, sourced from carefully selected vineyards across Mendoza’s premier growing regions. The 2006 vintage benefited from excellent growing conditions, producing a rich, balanced wine that showcases the depth and character of Argentina’s finest fruit alongside the blending traditions of Lafite.
Alc. 14%- Central Otago, NEW ZEALAND$64.99$64.99Bottle$779.88DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2025-2031)ABV: 14%Closure: Stelvin
A ripe, fleshy medium bodied Central Otago Pinot.
Includes approximately 15% whole bunch fruit with maturation taking place in French barriques for a period of 15 months. Dark red core with black toned edges and a red to dark red hue. Intense dark cherry, anise, strawberry and violet scents engulf the olfactory senses trailed by some spicy vanillin cedar, earth and dried herb notes. Ripe and fleshy, the medium bodied palate is layered with spicy dark cherry, anise, dark plum and strawberry flavours. Vanillin cedar, scorched earth and dried herb elements lie underneath. Polished yet sturdy tannin structure with a long spicy finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews……
Aromas of dark cherries, dried strawberries, iodine, potpourri and river stones. The medium-bodied palate has finely integrated tannins and bright acidity. Tightly wound with a powerful undertone that will unravel nicely in bottle. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
93 Points
JamesSuckling.com - Piedmont, ITALY$39.99$39.99Bottle$479.88DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2026-2031)ABV: 13.5%Closure: Diam Cork
Juicy red fruits, muscular tannins and vibrant acidity with a gently chewy feel to the finish.
Dark red in colour with black toned edges and a red to dark red hue. Fragrant red cherry, red liquorice and rose petal scents are trailed by tobacco, earth and spicy fresh herb notes. Juicy red currant, red liquorice and red cherry fruits are framed by muscular tannins and vibrant acidity. Infusions of fresh herbs, earth and delicate spicy tobacco sit in the background. Energetic, gently chewy red fruited finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5% - Dao, PORTUGAL$69.99$69.99Bottle$839.88DozenABV: 13%Closure: Cork
Other Reviews....
A blend of the brilliantly named varieties baga, jaen, and tinta amarela and some fifteen other varieties or so that join in. Sounds like the names of luchadores. Anyway, a Portuguese red of note!
Big, bold, rich mixed berry scents, whiffs of anise and undergrowth too. Silky texture with good, ripe berry fruit flavour but this shy of medium weight feel, even with a strong swipe of clove-woodiness through the finish. Gravelly tannins in tow, crunch of acidity a blast. It’s a pretty exciting red wine, thirst-quenching in a way but also with depth and carry through. Lingering blood orange tang. Cool wine, this. Drink 2023 - 2035.
93 Points
Mike Bennie - The Front - 96
- 98
- 95
- Nicks Import
- Organic
2018 Ao Yun Shangri-LaCHINA$599.00$599.00Bottle$7,188.00DozenClosure: CorkAo Yun is the realisation of a dream to produce world class, Bordeaux-style wine from China. Commissioned by Moët Hennessy, Dr. Tony Jordan embarked on a four year long mission to scour the terrain of China for an ideal climate to produce top class Cabernet Sauvignon. Settling in the foothills of the Himalayas, to the north of the Yunnan province, Ao Yun hails from the legendary and remote village of Shangri-La. Sitting at an altitude ranging between 2,200 and 2,600 metres above sea level, the estate is named after the magnificent clouds that gather above the permanently snow-capped mountain ranges: in Mandarin, “Ao Yun” means “flying above the clouds”.
Farming is handled by local families across the 28 hectares of vineyards, divided among 314 blocks with 727 tiny sub-parcels. Organic viticulture is practiced in the vineyards, while everything is done by hand with no machinery. The 2018 Ao Yun is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Cabernet Franc, 10% Merlot, 7% Syrah and 4% Petit Verdot.
Other Reviews....
I love the depth and complexity of the nose, which brings you down deeply into the wine, showing blackberry, ink, tar, earth, incense, cloves, and black licorice. Thyme, too. The purity of the fruit, including cassis, is the real thing. This is full-bodied, but remains so fresh and vertical on the palate. The tannins are so fine and integrated, producing a millefeuille-like layering of tannin and cool, blue fruit. Incredible wine. The greatest wine made in China so far. 60% cabernet sauvignon, 19% cabernet franc, 10% merlot, 7% syrah and 4% petit verdot. 26,000 bottles made. Drinkable now, but will be so much better in four or five years.
98 points
James SucklingHaving tasted the 2018 Ao Yun for the first time in May 2021 at high altitude in the village of Adong (where the Ao Yun winery is located), it was fascinating to retaste this vintage much closer to sea level in Beijing on December 2, 2021. This proved to be a useful comparative opportunity too, having only a few hours earlier shown the 2017 vintage in a tasting of various Shangri-La wines in Beijing the evening before. The 2018 Ao Yun is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Cabernet Franc, 10% Merlot, 7% Syrah and 4% Petit Verdot. As observed in my note from May, this blend shows increased confidence in some of the other varieties coming more online in Ao Yun’s four village sites of Xidang, Sinong, Shuori and Adong (with Merlot playing an increased role). The 2018 Ao Yun maintains its very deep purple appearance. On the nose, albeit youthful, there is already open and abundant super-ripe cassis, black cherry, mulberry, blueberry and black plum fruit with less pyrazine observable in this bottle (although this becomes more overt on the palate). That core of fruit is complemented by subtle new oak notes of clove, toast and smoke. On the palate, the 2018 Ao Yun has abundant, fine-grained and coating tannins with some lively acidity and well-integrated 14.5% alcohol, these structural elements being well-knitted together with the vibrant core of fruit, touch of herbaceous character (sage, mint) and subtle new oak notes. With its long length and marked concentration, although youthful, the 2018, tasted closer to sea level, has the kind of approachability similar to some Napa Cabernet blends. But it is unquestionably super youthful and is taking on entirely its own identity as the very best blend of these four remarkable village vineyard sites (each at different altitudes). The 2018 is just nudging ahead of the 2017 and 2015 in terms of quality. It will be fascinating to see its evolution in bottle. Drink 2023 - 2033.
95 points
Edward Ragg - Wine Advocate (Jan 2022)Gorgeously seductive nose, this is rich and abundant, aromas bursting out the glass, smells sweet and spicy, five spice fragrance with sweet blackcurrant and black cherry aromas. Mouthcoating and invigorating on the palate, totally harmonious and balanced with the salinity and wet stone nuances coming through backed by ripe, but so well defined, fruit flavors. Such purity on both the nose and palate. This is seriously refined, aromatics are preserved, balancing power with excellent acidity, so you get these bright and energetic flavours but still with structure. Seductive but this also has a sense of classicism. Lovely saline elements and cooling touch at the end with all the flavours lingering long in the mouth. Will be interesting to see how it ages. Drinking Window 2029 - 2045.
96 points
Georgina Hindle - DecanterPolished, smooth and ripe tannins that have plenty of movement in them. Ao Yun has been a wine with confidence and personality since its first vintage of 2013, and here balances concentrated damson and black cherry fruits with fragrant black tea, mandarin peel and sage together with earthier smoked cumin and saffran spice. 2018 was a late harvest through to November 15 (beginning September 7) and ripening under cooler, dry skies in November has translated into drawn out sculpted flavours that reflect the mountain site, and low yields of 21hl/h. Initial ageing took place in 50% Chinese earthenware jars and 50% oak barrels for five months, then a further 10 months in 30% new oak barrels. The team introduced village crus in this year also, drawing them from the four villages where the vines are located, and keeping 54% of overall production for Ao Yun itself - just another clue to the ambitions at this briliant estate. Drinking Window 2025 - 2040.
95 points
Jane Anson- Tuscany, ITALY$37.99$37.99Bottle$455.88DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 14.5%Closure: Stelvin
Rich and fleshy textured with ripe chewy tannins lending some firmness across the long deeply fruited finish.
A blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 25% Sangiovese from younger vines this is a generously endowed baby super Tuscan. Aging took place in older French oak for just a few months.
Deep midnight black core with a dark red hue. Red to black currant and dark cherry aromas greet the nostrils with admirable intensity followed by some liquorice, dried herb, tobacco and spicy earth notes. Rich, fleshy textured red to black currant, morello cherry and liquorice fruits meld into a dried herb, earthy tobacco and spice back drop. Ripe chewy tannins lend some firmness across the long deeply fruited finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews….
Taut and linear in profile, this red delivers black currant, black cherry, vanilla and peppery spices. Tightens up on the finish, where the chalky tannins linger. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese. Best from 2025 through 2036.
91 Points
Wine Spectator - 96
- 95
- 95
2021 Argiano SolengoTuscany, ITALY$160.00$160.00Bottle$1,920.00DozenCellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2024-2032)ABV: 14.5%Closure: CorkThis Super Tuscan was first produced in 1985 and is made from a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Merlot and Sangiovese grapes with maturation taking place in French oak barriques (60% new) for a period of 18 months.
Dense pitch black core with a deep dark red black hue. Alluring aromas of blackcurrant, dark cherry and subtle liquorice infiltrate the olfactory senses complimented by hints of tobacco, vanillin cedar, dried herb and spicy earth notes. Rich and concentrated yet polished and refined the palate is flooded with fleshy blackcurrant, dark cherry and liquorice fruits which are framed by firm, muscular yet integrated tannins. Vanillin cedar, earthy tobacco, dried herb, black olive and spice elements lurk underneath. Outstanding in its power, it finishes very long and deeply fruited with a robust feel.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews…..
Fascinating aromas of blackcurrants, orange peel, stone, minerals and blanched walnuts follow through to a medium to full body with firm and polished tannins that deliver a pleasant, caressing mouthfeel. But it requires more bottle age, as expected. This needs two or three years to show more, but it’s already very pretty. Drink after 2026.
95 Points
JamesSuckling.com
This is very Cabernet, with its black currant, blackberry, violet, cedar and sandalwood notes uplifted by vibrant acidity and energetic tannins. Youthful and even a bit awkward now, yet the mineral-infused aftertaste goes on and on. Shows excellent overall balance and detail. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Merlot and Sangiovese. Best from 2028 through 2042.
95 points
Wine Spectator- 92
- Biodynamic
- Organic
2021 Arnaud Lambert Saint Cyr En Bourg Les Terres RougeSaumur, Loire Valley, FRANCE$44.99$44.99Bottle$539.88DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2024-2028)ABV: 13.5%Closure: Diam CorkArnaud Lambert is considered to be one of the most talented winemakers in Loire regularly producing what are amongst the best wines in and around Saumur. Practicing bio-dynamic viticulture and bringing a Burgundian approach to his winemaking, his Cabernet Francs are perfumed, fresh and make for delicious drinking over the warmer months.
Deep black dark red core with a vibrant dark red hue. Lifted red currant and red liquorice aromas infused with clove drift out of the glass trailed by some earth, green tobacco and spice notes. Generous red currant and red cherry fruits line the mid weighted palate. Elegant feel with Mediterranean herb, light earth and delicate spicy tobacco characters lying underneath. Very fine grained tannin structure with an energetically fresh red fruited finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.5%- 92
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2023 Artigiano PrimitivoPuglia, ITALY$19.99$19.99Bottle$239.88DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinRich and raisiny with a vanillin spice and cinnamon background.
Deep black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Rising out of the glass are black plum, raisin and liquorice aromas followed by some scorched earth and spicy cinnamon notes. Rich black plum, raisin cake and liquorice flavours meld into a vanillin spice and cinnamon background. Fleshy mouth feel with faintly chewy tannins and a spicy mid length finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13.5%- 91
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2024 Astoria Caranto Pinot NoirVeneto, ITALY$29.99$29.99Bottle$359.88DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2026-2029)ABV: 11.5%Closure: Synthetic CorkA savoury, softly fleshed Italian Pinot Noir.
Dark red in colour with black toned edges and a red hue. Fragrant red cherry and red liquorice aromas intermingle with some dried herb, light earth and vanillin spice notes. Savoury red to dark cherry and red liquorice fruits carry a soft fleshy feel with notions of dried herbs, vanillin spice and earth the undercard. Polished fine grained tannins with a red to dark fruited and dried herb infused conclusion.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 11.5%- Martinborough, NEW ZEALAND$46.99$46.99Bottle$563.88DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 13.5%Closure: Stelvin
Juicy, fresh and supplely textured with a long moreish finish.
Ata Rangi rate the 2024 vintage as arguably the best they have seen in the last 45 years.
Vibrant red to dark red colour with black toned edges and a bright red purple hue. A perfumed mix of violet, strawberry, raspberry and subtle anise scents greet the nostrils with whiffs of clove, forest floor and spicy cedar also evident. Juicy and fresh, cherry, strawberry, red plum and anise flavours drive the palate with notions of clove, earth and spicy cedar the undercard. Supplely textured, it’s amply powered and has a long moreish finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews….
Perfumed and pretty, showing the quality of the beautiful 2024 vintage. Aromas of sliced oranges and strawberries. Some crushed stones. Medium body, firm tannins and crunchy fruity at the end. Linear and bright. Drink now.
94 Points
JamesSuckling.com“The 2024 vintage: arguably the best in 45 years we have been growing grapes”, say Ata Rangi.
Well, it’s a terrific release of this wine. It has perfume, spice, a slight wet earthy bass, raspberry and cherry. It’s medium-bodied, has some juiciness and dark red fruits, a slight liquorice root thing, crisp ‘mineral’ acidity, a tight graphite and slate feel to tannin, with a bright finish offering some blood orange and spice. Gee, this has some energy and it drinks a charm. Drink 2025-2034+
94 Points
Gary Walsh – The Wine Front - 96
- 94
- 94
- Organic
2022 Ata Rangi Pinot NoirMartinborough, NEW ZEALAND$115.00$115.00Bottle$1,380.00DozenCellar: Drink now - 15 Years (2025-2040)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinA more supple and openly textured Ata Rangi that retains the labels hallmark power and structure.
Only fruit, from the oldest parcels of vines at Ata Rangi makes it into this wine. The fabled Abel clone, allegedly smuggled from Burgundy in the mid-70s, makes up 40% of the blend. Incorporates 40% whole bunch fruit with maturation taking place in French oak (30% new) for a period of 11 months.
Red to dark red core with black shaded edges and a red hue. Perfumed aromatics with violet, ripe dark cherry and strawberry scents trailed by some fresh herb, subtle anise, forest floor and delicate spicy cedar notes. Rich, powerful and expansive yet relatively light on it’s feet, the mid weighted palate is flooded with juicy red to dark cherry, strawberry, red plum and subtle anise flavours. Infusion of fresh herbs, forest floor and spicy cedar unfold across the back half. Outstanding length and depth with seamlessly integrated tannins and fine acidity. More supple and openly textured than recent releases it finishes long and spicy.
Drink over the next 10-15 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews….
Stunning and captivating, the wine shows dark berry, warm spice, porcini, and toasted almond characters with an elegant floral overtone. The palate is equally enticing with outstanding concentration and depth, combined with silky flow and beautifully infused fine tannins, making it wonderfully structured with finesse and sophistication. Gorgeously proportioned and harmonious with a sustained, graceful finish. At its best: 2027 to 2042.
98 Points
Sam Kim – Wine OrbitThe 2022 Pinot Noir is lighter than the 2020 and softer than the 2021. In 2022, the decision was made not to release any single-vineyard wines "because they didn't express the character that we were hoping for in that vintage," says Winemaker Helen Masters. On the nose, there's white strawberry, cherry, pomegranate pearls and even a hint of raspberry leaf. In the mouth, the wine is pink peppercorn, open and yet compact, open-weave without being loose. There's clarity. It's lovely. The best fruit from the three single vineyards and the older estate vineyards make up this wine, yet the overall volume of the Ata Rangi Pinot Noir remains the same. Interesting to note that in 2023, there was no Ata Rangi 2023 made; all of the fruit flowed to the Crimson cuvée, the first time in the estate's 39 years. 13.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink 2023-2037.
94+ Points
Erin Larkin – Robert Parker’s The Wine AdvocateA tight and focused Ata Rangi with sliced strawberries and hints of white pepper and minerals. It’s medium-bodied, crisp and fresh, with light wet earth and fresh mushroom undertones to the fruit. This has verve. Drink or hold.
94 Points
JamesSuckling.com- Veneto, ITALY$44.99$44.99Bottle$539.88DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2022-2025)ABV: 14.5%Closure: Cork
Rebo is a dark skinned cross of Merlot and Teroldego grapes. Dense black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Elevated dried cherry and liquorice aromas mix with old vanillin oak, earth and spicy leather notes. Rich black cherry, liquorice and dried cherry flavours carry an opulent feel over an earthy leather, vanillin oak and cinnamon spice back drop. Ripe, slightly chewy tannins with a generously fruited yet rustic like aftertaste.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 14.5% - Rioja, SPAIN$49.99$49.99Bottle$599.88DozenCellar: 4 - 5 Years (2026-2027)ABV: 14%Closure: Diam Cork
From vineyards with an average age of around 50 years old approximately a quarter of this wine was aged in new French oak barriques for a period of 6 months.
Midnight black heart with a dark red black tinged hue. A mix of new leather and graphite like notes greet the nostrils. Peppered meats, sour cherry and fresh herb notes ensue. Medium bodied with a bright tangy like feel, a mix of spicy sour to dark cherry fruits are followed by some earth, leather and peppered meat characters. Chewy tannins with a bright aftertaste of moderate length.
Cellar 4-5 years.
Alc. 14% - Piedmont, ITALY$89.99$89.99Bottle$1,079.88DozenClosure: Cork
Other Reviews....
With heat spikes exceeding 40 degrees Celsius after the 15th of August, this was not an easy year. Some grape skins suffered from sunburn, and the year saw below average rain and no snow in the mountains. The Bartolo Mascarello 2023 Dolcetto d'Alba required strict fruit selection executed by hand, cluster to cluster. The important factor was removing the berries with burnt skins across the varieties they work with. Nebbiolo yields were down 25% to 30% in 2023 as a result. Aged in oak for nine months, this wine offers dark fruit, raisin and baked plum aromas. It finishes on the short side because the skin-to-pulp ratio leans to more pulp in this vintage. You also get nicely balanced acidity in this medium-plus wine. In terms of Dolcetto, this wine speaks with a quieter voice, which ultimately makes for a nice surprise. Drink 2025-2028.
91 points
Monica Larner - Robert Parker's Wine AdvocateThe 2023 Dolcetto d'Alba is an absolute joy. Floral, medium in body and nervy, the 2023 is a super-classic wine that reminds me of Dolcettos from another time, but it has the fruit purity that is typical of the best Piedmont wines today. Readers will find a wine of understatement and class. Drink 2024-2029.
91 points
Antonio Galloni - VinousThe 2023 Dolcetto d'Alba is a jewel-like magenta color and is lifted and fresh on the nose with highlights of red fruit accenting the pretty floral and darker berry notes of the Dolcetto, along with notes of fresh purple flowers, ripe berries, and wet stones. The palate offers brilliant intensity, complemented by electric acidity, ripe fruit, and a snappy, crunchy feel that persists through the finish. It offers a good deal of nervous energy at this early stage and will benefit from another 6-12 months in the bottle, although it should retain its poppy freshness for a considerable amount of time. Drink 2025-2035.
92+ points
Audrey Frick - jebdunnuck.com - 97
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- 97
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- 96
2020 Bartolo Mascarello BaroloPiedmont, ITALY$499.00$499.00Bottle$5,988.00DozenABV: 14%Closure: CorkOther Reviews....
This wine is on the market now. The Bartolo Mascarello 2020 Barolo represents a blend of fruit from five sites for the first time, Maria Teresa Mascarello tells me excitedly. The classic blend of the recent past saw fruit from Rue and Cannubi in Barolo and Rocche dell’Annunziata in La Morra. San Lorenzo, if only with fruit from a mere 3,000 square meters of seven-year-old vines, returns to the blend with this vintage. The wine also has fruit from Monrobio di Bussia from 4,000 square meters of leased vineyards. (Monrobio di Bussia took the place of San Lorenzo from the 2015 to the 2019 vintages). The Rue vineyard measures 4,000 square meters and has 35-year-old plants. Rocche dell’Annunziata measures 1.3 hectares, and its vines range from 35 to 40 years old. The oldest vines in Cannubi reach 70 years in age, but replanting over the years has introduced 15-, 20- and 25-year-old plants. The site measures one hectare and makes up about one-third of this wine (with fruit sourced from across a total of 3.3 hectares). Rocche dell’Annunziata also makes up one-third of the blend.
Fermentation times were long in 2020, lasting 55 days, with 42 days of submerged cap. This process allows the aromas and flavors to develop slowly and with added nuance. The vintage is considered hot; however, 2020 saw a "different kind of heat," Maria Teresa Mascarello tells me. Much-needed water reserves remained intact from winter and spring that saw snow and rain. "There was more disease pressure in 2020, but it wasn't too bad; and the wines show full-bodied ripeness," she says. This vintage was bottled in summer 2024. The wine reveals a soft side, with supple tannins, dark cherry fruit, dried herb, tea leaf and a hint of wild mint. The bouquet is open and does not hold back, especially in terms of its fruit-forward appeal. It feels linear and sharp on the palate, with balanced acidity that keeps it bright. Drink 2026-2050.
96 points
Monica Larner - Robert Parker's Wine AdvocateThe 2020 Barolo is classy, elegant and polished, just as it was last year. Crushed flowers, sage, citrus mint, spice, cedar and pipe tobacco give this ethereal, nuanced Barolo notable aromatic presence. All the elements are very nicely balanced. This is an especially ethereal Barolo from Maria Teresa Mascarello. Nervy tannins lend verve throughout. It will be interesting to see how this ages. Drink 2028-2040.
94 points
Antonio Galloni - VinousThis vintage is extremely floral, offering restrained violets, linden tree, camphor and balsamic tones and fresh redcurrants. On the full-bodied palate there is great licorice-stick flavor with refreshing, lifted acidity and firm, velvety tannins that are savory and ripe. Bright expression of Barolo, full of detail, more elegant than powerful. Drinkable now, but best after 5 years.
97 points
James SucklingThe 2020 Barolo is a transparent red hue and offers an approachable Grenache-like ease on the nose that is quite pretty and fruity with aromas of candied strawberries, hints of purple flowers, herbes de Provence, and sweet earth. The palate is savory and more classic in its structure, with refined yet well-defined tannins, refreshing, bright acidity, and driving notes of orange peel, apricot pit, and salty earth through an elegant and long finish. As is always the case, it is sourced from the four crus of Cannubi, Rocche dell’Annunziata, San Lorenzo, and Rue. While it feels approachable now, with a charming, juicy feel upfront, it should have a wide window for enjoyment and solid longevity over the coming two decades. Drink 2025-2045.
96 points
Audrey Frick - jebdunnuck.comIn the blend of Maria Teresa Mascarello's Barolo 2020, the replanted San Lorenzo vineyard makes a comeback, with a small portion of young-vine fruit. It was harvested on 2 October, while the rest (from Rocche dell'Annunziata and Cannubi) was picked from 4-8 October, after the rain. The result is a wine with a backdrop of very fresh redcurranty fruits, violets, deep spices including liquorice root, as well as hints of linden, almost camphor, and wild strawberry. A defined expression demonstrating a lot of maturity and savouriness. Drink 2024-2040.
97 points
Aldo Fiordelli - Decanter- Piedmont, ITALY$499.00$499.00Bottle$5,988.00DozenABV: 14.5%Closure: Cork
Other Reviews....
This is a superbly delicate and carefully finessed wine that interprets the growing season with its alternating cold and hot intervals in an impeccable manner. The Bartolo Mascarello 2018 Barolo puts Nebbiolo and the vintage seamlessly together like lock and key. It opens to a beautiful drinking experience. The bouquet shows detail and finely tuned aromas of redcurrant, violet, rusty nail and blood orange. On the palate, this Barolo is so shiny and polished that it feels like silk. Without a doubt, this is one of the top wines of 2018. Drink 2026-2050.
97+ points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Jun 24, 2022)The 2018 Barolo is a wine of extreme elegance and nuance. Dried red cherry, tobacco, dried flowers, mint and sweet spice are all nicely lifted in this sublime, delicate Barolo. All the elements fall into place so effortlessly. The 2018 naturally does not have the body of more important years, but it offers tons of persistence and fine balance. It has closed down quite a bit since I first tasted it a few months ago, which is probably a good sign. An opened bottle just got better and better over time. Drink 2028-2043.
94 points
Antonio Galloni - VinousLush and pure, the 2018 Barolo is a medium and transparent ruby hue, with aromas of fresh roses, wet stone, and ripe raspberry. This medium-bodied red is luxurious. with a silky and viscous texture and generous notes of ripe red cherry, warming cardamom spice, and soft earth. Elegant and long through the palate, with no harshness, it is drinking beautifully now or will continue to drink well over the next 15 years. Fermentation saw 45 days on the skins with a submerged cap. Drink 2023-2038.
95 points
Audrey Frick - jebdunnuck.com - Tuscany, ITALY$22.99$22.99Bottle$275.88DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2025-2029)ABV: 12.5%Closure: Stelvin
Elegant and savoury with slightly dusty tannins and an earthy red fruited finish.
Deep dark red black tinged core with a dark red hue. Spicy red currant aromas mix with dried herb, earthy tobacco and subtle leather notes. Elegant and savoury, red currant and red cherry fruits are featured over an earth, dried herb and spice back drop. Fine grained, slightly dusty tannins with an underlying freshness and an earthy red fruited finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 12.5% - Jura, FRANCE$125.00$125.00Bottle$1,500.00DozenABV: 14.5%Closure: Cork
Stéphane Tissot is a tireless and vigorous promoter of individual sites and natural wines. He brings technological experience from his work in Australia and South Africa, and combines this with his ruthless yield reduction philosophy and very serious 'small batch' winemaking which is carried out as naturally as possible. Tissot plants mostly on clay and limestone, all sites are farmed biodynamically and yields are kept low, averaging only 30 h/l per hectare. Ferments are allowed to commence naturally and the still wines are bottled without filtration and little or no SO2 is added across the board. Vibrancy and fruit presence is a signature across all his wines. Given Stéphane is constantly experimenting and obsessively seeking improvements; he is at the forefront of the Jura revolution and produces terroir-driven wines of depth, intensity, interest and undeniable quality.
These are the best Trousseau bunches, selected and fermented in open fermenters before being aged in 225 litre barrels, much like the red wines of Burgundy.
Other Reviews....
The bottled 2022 Trousseau Singulier was harvested a little later and also destemmed by hand, pressed and put into 600-liter barrels, but unlike Poulsard that likes cold, Trousseau likes heat. Sixty percent of the volume was in open-top tanks with one month of maceration, and the rest was in closed tanks with a maceration of three months. This is earthier, toasty and with notes of dry hay and straw, reflecting a warm vintage with dry tannins. It finishes with some hardness that gives it rusticity. Drink 2025-2030.
93 points
Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate (Aug 09, 2024) - 98
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- 96
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2022 Bibi Graetz ColoreTuscany, ITALY$450.00$450.00Bottle$5,400.00DozenABV: 14%Closure: CorkFascinated by old vines, in just 20 years, Bibi Graetz has assembled one of the largest holdings of old vineyards in Tuscany. He shuns the traditionalist Chianti constraints and unlike other Super Tuscan producers focuses on championing the local varieties of Sangiovese, Canaiolo and Colorino rather than pursuing Bordeaux blends.
Other Reviews....
Perfection in sangiovese, with cherry blossoms, chalk, seashells, fine sand and violets on the nose and palate. Medium- to full-bodied with focused and poised tannins that are wonderfully integrated and rather endless. Crunchy and chewy at the end. Such presence. You want to spend time with this wine. A top selection from two vineyards Olmo and one in the village of Chianti Classico in Lamole, 60 and 88 years old, respectively. This is a wine that gives great pleasure now, but will be even better in two or three years.
100 points
James SucklingColore is the product of old vines in the Chianti Classico hills, in Lamole and Olmo. ‘Colore is my dream from the beginning of working with old vineyards...the vineyard in Lamole is beautiful, it's THE vineyard in Chianti Classico,’ says Bibi Graetz. 2022 was a hot year and so Bibi decided to only use fruit from his north-facing vineyards. ‘The hot year gives me this material, even if it is up in the mountains, north-facing; the fruit has this kick.’ Precisely sculpted and very intense, Colore 2022 is both pillowy and bright. Dark berries, spice and blood orange are gathered up by a lingering, zesty finish. It's more closed than Testamatta at the moment, but should reveal more of its beauty in time. Drink: 2025-2045.
98 points
James Button - DecanterThe Bibi Graetz 2022 Colore sources its fruit from only two sites in this vintage: from 60-year-old vines in the Olmo vineyard (with 400-meter-plus elevations) and 88-year-old vines in Lamole (Chianti Classico). The vines are mostly south-facing, but the elevations are key. Meanwhile, Testamatta comes from mostly cool, north-facing sites. These results show lots of vertical heft and sharp tones with bright fruit, mineral graphite and blue flower. Bibi seeks transparency in his wines, and although the 2022 vintage delivers heavier fruit aromas overall, the wine does offer a pretty textural lightness. Drink: 2024 - 2040.
96 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate- 97
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2022 Bibi Graetz TestamattaTuscany, ITALY$185.00$185.00Bottle$2,220.00DozenABV: 14%Closure: CorkOther Reviews....
The production of both Testamatta and Colore was cut by two-thirds in 2022, partly because Bibi Graetz didn't want to use his south-facing vineyards in such a hot year. ‘I think there is more power, more energy,’ he says. Certainly, Testamatta is singing, and has closed the gap to Colore in 2022. It displays dusty, earthy notes, creamy dark cherry, green olive and spice on a vertical frame with stark salinity. It's precise and energetic, poised and balletic, with a beautiful vibrancy of tangy raspberry, cherry, wild herbs and a touch of plum. Drink: 2024-2042.
97 points
James Button - DecanterThe purity of fruit is so impressive, with al dente fruit character of sliced cherries, cranberries and citrus fruit that’s wonderfully melted together. It’s medium- to full-bodied and grows on the palate, with firm and layered tannins and a long, intense finish. This needs three to four years to refine but is already so enticing. Great beauty. Already irresistible, but best after 2027.
98 points
James SucklingMade with fruit from all north-facing vineyard sites (mostly in Olmo with a little bit from Lamole), the Bibi Graetz 2022 Testamatta is engineered to showcase the power of Sangiovese. Indeed, many parcels were recently removed from the blend in order to focus on fruit concentration and elegance. This was a hot growing season, but Bibi says that 2021 was also very warm (with more violent heat spikes during the summer). He lost a small percentage (about 7%) of fruit in 2022 and claims to have had an abundance of fruit in the challenging 2023 vintage. This wine is packed with dense berry fruit, blueberry, spice and soft earth. Bright acidic freshness adds backbone to Sangiovese. Drink: 2024 - 2040.
95 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate- 97
- 98
- 98
- 96
- Nicks Import
2020 Bibi Graetz ColoreTuscany, ITALY$420.00$420.00Bottle$5,040.00DozenCellar: 8 - 10 Years (2030-2032)ABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkFascinated by old vines, in just 20 years, Bibi Graetz has assembled one of the largest holdings of old vineyards in Tuscany. He shuns the traditionalist Chianti constraints and unlike other Super Tuscan producers focuses on championing the local varieties of Sangiovese, Canaiolo and Colorino rather than pursuing Bordeaux blends.
Deep dark red colour with black tinged edges and a bright red hue. Alluring red cherry and red currant scents infused with crushed rose petals meld into earth, tobacco, dusty cedar, fresh herb and spice notes. Delicious vibrant red fruits decorate the mid weighted palate with notions of tobacco, earth, fresh herbs and mineral infused crushed rocks lying underneath. Bright acidity combines with savoury yet slightly chalky tannins. Superb line, tension and length with a deceptively long and finessed finish.
Cellar 8-10 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews….
The subtlety and perfumed nature of this wine is enchanting, offering flowers, orange peel and cherries. Wonderful ripe strawberries, too. Full-bodied, but not over the top, with tannins that are polished and run the length of the wine. It’s tight, but gives you every indication of a terrific wine. You want to drink it now, and you probably should do, because it’s so alluring. Yet it will age beautifully as well. Drink or hold.
98 points
James SucklingThe Bibi Graetz 2020 Colore is a pure expression of Sangiovese all sourced from old vines that are carefully selected in various parts of Tuscany. Much of the fruit comes from a high elevation and cool site in Lamole, or from 70-year-old vines in Bagno a Ripoli or Vincigliata near Fiesole. A small percentage of old vines in Olmo is also used. Bibi has a preference for old vines, and you can taste the lovely depth and complexity that comes through in the Colore. Compared to his other wine Testamatta, this wine has seen fewer stylistic changes over the years, and the goal has always been elegance and finesse. Colore boasts a pretty luminous quality with dark fruit aromas and wild berry. There are hints of licorice and mint as well. Mineral flavors and bright acidity are what set Colore apart.
Drink 2023-2045.
96 points
Monica Larner – Wine AdvocateBright and lively on the palate, such beautifully expressed raspberry and red cherry fruit flavours alongside high-shining acidity that is so clean and precise. A supremely joyful expression with hints of caramelised strawberries and fresh mint. So sharp but so well defined with a clarity to the palate that is gorgeous. Really delivers a sophisticated, charming, characterful wine that is balanced, easy to enjoy with plenty of life. A more structured and perhaps harder to understand wine than Testamatta this year, but both have their own lovely personalities. This is so complete and abundant, muscular but controlled and full of complexity and detail - there's weight and density without heaviness. A sensational wine. Ageing 12 months in 500l French oak barrels.
98 points
Georgina Hindle - Decanter- 97
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2019 Bibi Graetz TestamattaTuscany, ITALY$180.00$180.00Bottle$2,160.00DozenCellar: Drink now - 15 Years (2021-2036)ABV: 14%Closure: CorkDark red in colour with black shaded edges and a bright red hue. The nose has a perfumed quality to it featuring delightful rose petal like scents which meld into ripe red to dried cherry and red currant fruits. Earth, light tobacco, fresh herb and delicate spicy cedar scents then emerge. Very long and elegant, the seemingly weightless palate is flooded with a mix of red to dark cherry and red currant flavours that show an appealing savouriness. Adding complexity are spicy cedar, light earth and dried herb elements. Beautiful freshness with muscular yet finely etched tannins leading into a powerful yet refined finish.
Drink over the next 10-15 years.Other Reviews….
A pure expression of Sangiovese, the Bibi Graetz 2019 Testamatta is a wine in constant evolution. Bibi has added 17 more hectares of vineyard to the program, with 12 hectares in Fiesole (north of Florence) and 5 hectares in San Donato in Colle (south of Florence) with 70-year-old vines. The base of the wine sees fruit from old vines planted in the 1950s in the cool-climate Lamole subzone of Chianti Classico. These new terroirs bring a lot more aromatic nuance and complexity to the wine with perfumed blue flower, candied orange peel, wet earth and plumy black fruit. White Alberese soils add a strong chalky mineral signature to the finish of this elegantly streamlined and linear Tuscan red. Drink 2022 - 2042.
94 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Aug 2021)Very attractive combination of dried fruit and spices with black cherries and plums. Aromas of flowers and sandalwood, too. Full-bodied and very refined, yet intense, with plush, velvety tannins that are wonderfully integrated and intertwined with the fruit. Ripe center palate. Tight at the end, suggesting the need for some serious bottle age. Very structured. Try after 2025.
97 points
JamesSuckling.com- 98
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- Nicks Import
2019 Bibi Graetz ColoreTuscany, ITALY$450.00$450.00Bottle$5,400.00DozenCellar: Drink now - 15 Years (2021-2036)ABV: 14%Closure: CorkColore is Bibi Graetz's Gran Vin, from very old vineyards of Sangiovese, Canaiolo and Colorino. Poor soils mixed with sand and stone create the perfect terroir.
Deep dark red core with black shaded edges and a red to dark red hue. Super expressive aromatics entrance the olfactory senses with red currant and red cherry scents in union with hints of rose petals, graphite, earth, tobacco, fresh herbs and spicy cedar. Carrying superb intensity of flavour, the palate is energetic and finessed with a powerful core of delicious ripe red currant and red cherry fruits underpinned by a muscular structure and wonderfully fresh acidity. Earth, dried herb, subtle graphite, light cedary tobacco characters and spice play their part on the back half. Well cut and nimble it finishes exceptionally long with a focused core of red fruits.
Drink over the next 10-15 years.Other Reviews….
Dressed for a party, the Bibi Graetz 2019 Colore celebrates the estate's 20th anniversary with a special commemorative (2000-2019) bottle. This vintage of Colore is 100% Sangiovese (the small part of Colorino in the blend we saw last year has been removed) because Bibi thought the Sangiovese elegant enough to stand alone. Fruit comes from three vineyard sites with 70-, 80- and 90-year-old vines, respectively. The wine offers big intensity and beautifully lifted aromas and more textural support than we saw in the slightly thinner 2018 vintage. The bouquet reveals balsam herb, cassis, pressed rose, garden mint and crushed stone. Fruit from the southern-most site, Poggio Matto in Casciano del Murlo (in the province of Siena), was blended in at a greater percentage to help build the structure and momentum of this cellar-worthy wine. Drink 2022 - 2045.
96 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Aug 2021)This is so perfumed and seductive, with blackberries, cherries, dried flowers and perfume. It’s full-bodied and tight with very fine tannins. Really structured and long. Superb tannin texture. So fine, yet so powerful. This is an incredible combination of fruit and structure. Old-vine magic. Drink after 2026.
99 points
JamesSuckling.com- Tuscany, ITALY$27.99$27.99Bottle$335.88DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2023-2027)ABV: 13.5%Closure: Diam Cork
Dark red in colour with black tinged edges and a dark red hue. The nose offers up red currant and red cherry scents followed by some tobacco, dried herb and spicy earth notes. Mid weighted with an elegant feel, the palate features fresh red currant and red cherry fruits over dried herbs, earth and spice. Slightly grainy tannins with a savoury mid length conclusion.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.5% - 89
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2021 Bindi Sergardi Tenuta I Colli Achille IGT Toscana RossoTuscany, ITALY$24.99$24.99Bottle$299.88DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2023-2027)ABV: 13.5%Closure: Diam CorkA blend of 90% Sangiovese and 10% Merlot. Deep dark red black colour with a dark red hue. Spicy red currant and red cherry aromas infused with a mixture of rose petals, earth, tobacco and dried herbs emanate from the glass. The elegant mid weighted palate features bright red currant and red cherry fruits over earth, infusions of fresh herbs and spicy tobacco. Slightly dryish tannins with vibrant acidity and a savoury conclusion of moderate length.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13.5%- 98
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2019 Biondi-Santi Brunello di MontalcinoTuscany, ITALY$550.00$550.00Bottle$6,600.00DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkWhen it comes to Brunello, there is Biondi-Santi, and then there is everyone else. While most legendary wine regions evolved over centuries of collective effort, Brunello di Montalcino was essentially the "invention" of this single estate. In the late 1800s, while the rest of Tuscany was focused on high-volume blends meant for immediate drinking, Ferruccio Biondi-Santi made the radical choice to bottle 100% Sangiovese and age it for years in large Slavonian oak. This wasn't just a stylistic preference; it was the birth of the appellation itself. Under the current direction of Federico Radi, the winemaking has seen a subtle refinement, focusing on vineyard precision and slightly more supple textures, without abandoning the structural tension that makes these wines some of the longest-lived reds in Italy. For the collector, these releases represent the traditional benchmark: they are lean, savory, and aromatically complex wines that prioritize elegance and transparency over power.
The 2019 release originates from a widely acclaimed "5-star" vintage, characterized by a cool, rainy spring followed by a steady summer without extreme heat spikes. Fermented with indigenous yeasts in a mix of oak, concrete, and steel, and subsequently aged for 30 months in Slavonian casks, this vintage exemplifies the structural precision and high-altitude freshness typical of Tenuta Greppo.
Other Reviews....
This wine will be released in March 2025. The Biondi-Santi 2019 Brunello di Montalcino was born in a generous vintage that provided abundant high-quality fruit. The growing season became progressively warmer throughout summer, without heat spikes, and it ended with well-timed rains and a warm autumn. Harvest started in mid-September, and the grapes ripened according to the right parameters without over-ripeness. The wine shows a natural textural richness that is supported by dark fruit, navel orange, tobacco, laurel leaf and Mediterranean herb. There are flinty mineral notes that add to the complexity. This beautiful wine hits a special mark: it offers the ethereal qualities you expect of this celebrated estate, with a good level of austerity to match. Drink 2028-2055.
97 points
Monica Larner - Robert Parker's Wine AdvocateThe 2019 Brunello di Montalcino pulls the taster close to the glass, darkly floral and balsamic at the first tilt. This blossoms with a textbook profile of worn leather, dried rose, dusty earth, spice and dried black cherry. It sweeps across the palate, silky-smooth with hints of ripe red and black fruit underscored by saline mineral tones that add a crunchy yet salty sensation toward the close. It finishes with tremendous length and concentration, lifted by a tinge of sour citrus. Fine-grained tannins resonate under an air of sweet lavender. The 2019 is classic to the core. With this level of depth coming from the anatta, one can only imagine what the riserva will reveal. Drink 2028-2040.
97 points
Eric Guido - VinousVery perfumed and fragrant with sweet berries and fresh roses that follow through to a medium body with pretty depth of fruit and balance. Racy and driven, there’s a lot going on in the center-palate. The legend lives. Give this a few years to open, but already impressive. Best after 2027.
97 points
James SucklingA bright red color, the 2019 Brunello Di Montalcino was bottled in March of 2024 and will be released in March of 2025. The aromas are layered and complex with notes of red berries, cranberries, rosemary, orange peel, and black licorice that are constantly evolving in the glass as it opens. Medium-bodied and structured, but also elegant with a weightless feel, it has a long and savory finish. It feels as though it's going to gain in intensity with more time in bottle. Drink 2027-2050.
98 points
Audrey Frick - jebdunnuck.comBottled in late-March 2024, Biondi Santi’s latest Brunello is built solidly on classic lines. Captivatingly austere, it hints at pomegranate and tea leaf to begin, with balsamic rosemary and sage blossom taking hold as it opens. Neither overtly dense nor powerful, it trades instead on grace and linearity. Firm, al dente tannins stretch out, sculpting a sinewy core of blood orange and pink grapefruit. Nervous energy brings edgy tension, and appetising bitter herbs bring this to an auspicious conclusion. Drink 2029-2047.
98 points
Michaela Morris - Decanter- Tuscany, ITALY$240.00$240.00Bottle$2,880.00DozenABV: 14%Closure: Cork
When it comes to Brunello, there is Biondi-Santi, and then there is everyone else. While most legendary wine regions evolved over centuries of collective effort, Brunello di Montalcino was essentially the "invention" of this single estate. In the late 1800s, while the rest of Tuscany was focused on high-volume blends meant for immediate drinking, Ferruccio Biondi-Santi made the radical choice to bottle 100% Sangiovese and age it for years in large Slavonian oak. This wasn't just a stylistic preference; it was the birth of the appellation itself. Under the current direction of Federico Radi, the winemaking has seen a subtle refinement, focusing on vineyard precision and slightly more supple textures, without abandoning the structural tension that makes these wines some of the longest-lived reds in Italy. For the collector, these releases represent the traditional benchmark: they are lean, savory, and aromatically complex wines that prioritize elegance and transparency over power.
Harvested during the estate's earliest-ever picking window (commencing August 31st), the 2022 Rosso is the result of a hot, dry vintage mitigated by well-timed late-August rainfall. The fruit was sourced from proprietary vineyards and aged for 12 months in Slavonian oak, resulting in a wine that balances the warmth of the year with the estate's hallmark tension and refined tannins.
Other Reviews....
A super-restrained wine showing complex aromas of rhubarb, strawberries, violets, raspberries and blood oranges. The attack is quite ripe, with dense, velvety tannins soaked in fruit, a medium body and refreshing lifted acidity. The finish is long and savory. Drink or hold.
94 points
Aldo Fiordelli - JamesSuckling.comThe earliest harvest ever at Biondi-Santi (starting 31 August) followed a warm spring and hot summer with some rain, giving optimal growing conditions. Viticulture and winemaking director Federico Radi describes the estate's Rosso as 'our running back wine', for its big-boned yet agile structure. Approachable yet still serious, it's dominated by succulent strawberry, red cherry and blood orange, aromatic star anise and vibrant acidity. Grapes are sourced from the youngest vineyards across the property and the wine is aged for 12 months in Slavonian oak barrels. Drink 2025-2030.
93 points
Tina Gellie - Decanter - La Tierra de Castilla, SPAIN$49.99$49.99Bottle$599.88DozenCellar: 4 - 5 Years (2027-2028)ABV: 14.5%Closure: Cork
Totally opaque black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Aromas of black cherry, liquorice, earth and leather are trailed by hints of dark chocolate and spice. Rich chewy black cherry and liquorice flavours are interwoven with scorched earth, old leather and spicy cedar. Firm grippy tannins with a muscular feel to the rustic finish.
Cellar 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.5%Other Reviews….
The very spicy 2018 Viña El Señorito de Ercavio is a single-vineyard Cencibel planted 25 years ago on limestone-rich soils. It fermented with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel and matured in second use French oak barrels for nine months. It's ripe, fruit-driven and modern but with the rustic Cencibel character and some dusty tannins. Drink 2022-2028.
93 Points
Luis Gutiérrez – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate - Toro, SPAIN$190.00$190.00Bottle$2,280.00DozenABV: 15.5%Closure: Cork
Bodegas Vega Sicilia is Spain's most prestigious wine estate, and has produced some of the most famous wines in the country's history. Founded in the 1860's and based in Ribera del Duero, two hours from Madrid, initial plantings at the estate included Bordeaux grapes Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Malbec, along with the indigenous Tinto Fino (Tempranillo).
Other Reviews....
The 2020 Pintia is from a powerful year of concentration, so they were very careful with the harvest date, did a softer vinification trying to extract less and included amphorae and less toast in the élevage. It's opulent and juicy but gentle. The wine reached 15.5% alcohol and has a pH of 3.9 with 4.4 grams of acidity. It fermented in stainless steel and oak vats with indigenous yeasts. It was a very warm and dry vintage in Toro, with a heat wave before the harvest, so they had to rush to pick the grapes; and still, the wine is richer and more powerful, even though the amphorae helped them contain the sensation of ripeness in the wine. It has a heady and ripe profile that's very aromatic and showy, with notes of very ripe berries, prunes and decayed violets, with a faint volatile twist. It matured 70% in new barrels, 10% in used barrels, 10% in stainless steel and 5% in clay pots. It's full-bodied and lush, with abundant, slightly dusty tannins. It's a ripe and powerful vintage for Pintia, but it evolves nicely in the glass, showing less of its ripe side with time, which to me is a good sign. Some 14,304 half bottles, 209,009 bottles, 6,645 magnums and some larger formats were produced. It was bottled in August 2022. Drink 2026-2032.
94 points
Luis Gutiérrez - Robert Parker's Wine AdvocateThe 2020 Pintia is Tempranillo from Toro. It opens with fine plum, delicate spice, cherry, barrel notes and a hint of orange peel. A touch of jam adds to the warmth. Rich and intense, the palate is broad and textured with firm tannins. For a Toro, the mouthfeel is unusually smooth, with a core of red fruit. Nicely balanced. Drink 2025-2040.
94 points
Joaquín Hidalgo - VinousAnother combination of freshness and profoundness from Toro. Blackberries, graphite, ashtray, sandalwood, cocoa powder and dark olives on the nose. Fresh-veined, chalky tannins tighten the palate, with a nervy backbone. The tannins extend to a lengthy finish. Ripe but fresh. Drink from 2026.
95 points
Zekun Shuai - JamesSuckling.comAnother accomplished vintage of Vega Sicilia's Toro project. Technical director Gonzalo Iturriaga says it was a challenging vintage, with illusive freshness. But ideal harvest timing and maceration management allowed him to deliver a balanced wine, with superbly integrated alcohol. Intense, expressive aromas of dark chocolate, dried black olive, prune and liquorice root mingle with Assam tea (for an elegant smoky allure) and crunchy blueberries. A pleasant rusticity, lined with dried sage, defines the grippy, savoury tannins. Long finish, spicy and earthy. Drink 2025-2040.
94 points
Ines Salpico - Decanter - Swartland, SOUTH AFRICA$64.99$64.99Bottle$779.88DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2026-2032)ABV: 14%Closure: Cork
A medium to full bodied blend layered with rich, succulent fruit finishing long and refined.
The Boekenhoutskloof vineyard, named after the original property set up in 1776, was founded in 1993 in the Franschhoek Valley, when it was planted with Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Grenache, Semillon, and Viognier. Today, under the helm of the winemaker Mark Kent, they produce a range of iconic wines including the Boekenhoutskloof Estate Wines, The Wolftrap, Porcupine Ridge, The Chocolate Block, and the Porseleinberg from the Swartland.
The 2024 Chocolate Block is a blend of 73% Syrah, 11% Grenache, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cinsault, and 1% Viognier. The wine is matured in a combination of seasoned 2,500L French oak foudres, 225L barriques, and seasoned 600L demi-muids for a period of 14 months.
Midnight black core with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Pronounced blackberry and liquorice aromas are complimented by a whiff of blueberry followed by some earthy dark chocolate, vanillin cedar and subtle spicy apricot notes. Rich succulent blackberry and liquorice fruits drive the medium to full bodied palate with notions of ripe blueberry, dark plum, vanillin cedar, subtle earthy dark chocolate and spicy dried herbs detailed across the back half. Polished fine grained tannins with a long sumptuous yet refined finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%Other Reviews...
The Boekenhoutskloof 2024 Swartland The Chocolate Block, a blend of 73% Syrah, 11% Grenache, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cinsault and 1% Viognier, may not aim for intellectual nuance, but it more than compensates with pure, comforting charm, like a big, shaggy dog asleep by the fireplace. Medium- to full-bodied, it delivers generous black fruit and bold cherry flavors with a smooth, reassuring texture, offering plenty of pleasure. Conceived by vintner Marc Kent as an accessible, crowd-pleasing expression of Swartland fruit, the wine reflects Boekenhoutskloof’s belief that serious craftsmanship and broad appeal need not be mutually exclusive. Production is substantial, with 3,741 barrels made, translating to just over 1.1 million bottles, making it an ideal choice for a long wooden table at a steakhouse surrounded by friends and shared plates. Drink 2026-2032.
92 Points
Monica Larner - Robert Parker's Wine AdvocateThis creamy, medium-bodied red has aromas of dark cherries, blueberries, cracked pepper and thyme. It’s juicy and smoothly integrated with tasty savory undertones to the dark fruit. Drink now.
92 Points
Claire Nesbitt - JamesSuckling.com - Piedmont, ITALY$499.00$499.00Bottle$5,988.00DozenABV: 14.5%Closure: Cork
Other Reviews....
Superb aromas of ripe fruit, such as plums and berries with peaches and tar. Very intense. Full body, great depth and density. Incredible richness and power with superb length and persistence. One of the most dense and vertical Falletos I have tasted. Try in 2025.
98 Points
Jamessuckling.comDense and firmly structured, this red features a distinctive saltiness underlying the floral, cherry, mineral and tobacco flavors. A bit standoffish now, but all the components are in the right proportions. Best from 2023 through 2048.
94 points
Bruce Sanderson - Wine Spectator - SPAIN$19.99$19.99Bottle$239.88DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2026-2029)ABV: 13.5%Closure: Stelvin
A juicy Spanish Garnacha with slightly chewy tannins and a long, succulent finish that shows plenty of spice.
The Campos de Luz range of wines is sourced from the North East of Spain and aim to deliver highly flavoursome wines at a great price. Unoaked, this delicious Garnacha features a deep black dark red colour and a dark red hue. Intense black cherry, black raspberry and liquorice scents mix with scorched earth, herbs du Provence and spice notes. Juicy black raspberry, liquorice and black cherry fruits are delivered with impressive richness across the medium bodied palate. Scorched earth, peppered dried herb and vanillin spice elements lend further nuance. Slightly chewy tannins impart a meaty feel across the long, succulent finish that shows plenty of spice.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13.5% - Montepulciano D'Abruzzo, ITALY$13.99$13.99Bottle$167.88DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2025-2027)ABV: 13%Closure: Stelvin
A youthful, slightly chewy Montepulciano with juicy morello cherry and ripe plum fruits.
Deep midnight black core with a vibrant dark red hue. Ripe morello cherry, plum and liquorice aromas show good aromatic lift out of the glass with some earthy incense and spice notes also chiming in. Juicy morello cherry and ripe plum fruits are to the fore with subtle earthy incense, dried herb and spice elements lurking in the background. Nicely fleshed yet youthful feel with slightly chewy tannins, fresh acidity and a gentle inkiness to the medium length finish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13% - Veneto, ITALY$34.99$34.99Bottle$419.88DozenCellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2026-2029)ABV: 14%Closure: Diam Cork
Dark fruited with firmish tannins and a mid length finish that some earth and vanillin spice accents to it.
Rated 97 points by Italian wine critic Luca Maroni, this is made from a blend of Corvina, Corvionne and Rondinella grapes. Deep dark red black colour with a dark red hue. Earthy dried cherry, black cherry, liquorice, vanillin spice, cinnamon and subtle leather aromas drift out of the glass. Rich dark cherry, liquorice, dark chocolate and vanilla flavours meld into a back drop of earth and cinnamon spice. Firm, slightly dryish tannins. Dark fruited, mid length finish that some earth and vanillin spice accents to it.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 14% - Burgundy, FRANCE$190.00$190.00Bottle$2,280.00DozenClosure: Cork
Caroline Morey comes from a long line of vignerons based in the Cotes de Beaune and is also married to Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey. In 2014 Caroline took her share of some family vineyards from her father Jean-Marc and created her own domaine based in Chassagne-Montrachet, working out of brand new cellars built for Caroline and her husband.
For her first vintage in 2014 she had small holdings in Chassagne-Montrachet for both red and white together with small holdings in Santenay and Hautes Cotes de Beaune totaling just 2.4 hectares. With more vineyards added both from family and acquisitions in the last few years, the total is now 7 hectares in total for Caroline with roughly half for red and half for whites.
Caroline sources her Chassagne-Montrachet Rouge from vines located just below the village in Les Chenes Les Pierres and Les Chambres, and is made with 35% whole bunches. Bottling occures in November after 12 months ageing in barrel to capture the freshness, and while a serious example it is often approachable young.
Other Reviews....
A discreet application of wood is present on the overtly pepper-inflected aromas of earthy and ripe dark berry scents along with a touch of the sauvage. The delicious, caressing and sappy flavors also contrast with the grippy, rustic and short finish. Once again, this robust effort is not particularly well-balanced and my guess, given the relatively easy-going mid-palate texture, is that this is not 'on form' today but may very well come together in time. With that said, for the moment it's pretty awkward. Drink through 2029+.
86-88 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundThree plots. A little bit troubled but a slightly deeper crimson in any case. A respectable fruit weight despite the deliberate lightness of style, the tannins are present but not rustic, and the fruit flows well behind. Drink from 2027-2032.
88-90 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy - Burgundy, FRANCE$399.00$399.00Bottle$4,788.00DozenClosure: Cork
Caroline Morey comes from a long line of vignerons based in the Cotes de Beaune and is also married to Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey. In 2014 Caroline took her share of some family vineyards from her father Jean-Marc and created her own domaine based in Chassagne-Montrachet, working out of brand new cellars built for Caroline and her husband.
For her first vintage in 2014 she had small holdings in Chassagne-Montrachet for both red and white together with small holdings in Santenay and Hautes Cotes de Beaune totaling just 2.4 hectares. With more vineyards added both from family and acquisitions in the last few years, the total is now 7 hectares in total for Caroline with roughly half for red and half for whites.
Caroline sources her Chassagne-Montrachet Rouge from vines located just below the village in Les Chenes Les Pierres and Les Chambres, and is made with 35% whole bunches. Bottling occures in November after 12 months ageing in barrel to capture the freshness, and while a serious example it is often approachable young.
Other Reviews....
A discreet application of wood is present on the overtly pepper-inflected aromas of earthy and ripe dark berry scents along with a touch of the sauvage. The delicious, caressing and sappy flavors also contrast with the grippy, rustic and short finish. Once again, this robust effort is not particularly well-balanced and my guess, given the relatively easy-going mid-palate texture, is that this is not 'on form' today but may very well come together in time. With that said, for the moment it's pretty awkward. Drink through 2029+.
86-88 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundThree plots. A little bit troubled but a slightly deeper crimson in any case. A respectable fruit weight despite the deliberate lightness of style, the tannins are present but not rustic, and the fruit flows well behind. Drink from 2027-2032.
88-90 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy - Burgundy, FRANCE$299.00$299.00Bottle$3,588.00DozenClosure: Cork
Caroline Morey comes from a long line of vignerons based in the Cotes de Beaune and is also married to Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey. In 2014 Caroline took her share of some family vineyards from her father Jean-Marc and created her own domaine based in Chassagne-Montrachet, working out of brand new cellars built for Caroline and her husband.
For her first vintage in 2014 she had small holdings in Chassagne-Montrachet for both red and white together with small holdings in Santenay and Hautes Cotes de Beaune totaling just 2.4 hectares. With more vineyards added both from family and acquisitions in the last few years, the total is now 7 hectares in total for Caroline with roughly half for red and half for whites.
Other Reviews....
A notably more floral-suffused nose speaks mostly of red cherry, wild currant and warm earth. The sappy and seductively textured flavors possess solid punch and a subtle bead of minerality that adds a bit of verve to the equally dusty and firm if somewhat short finish. Again, I suspect that the abrupt finish is a phase that will eventually age out with a few years of cellaring. Drink through 2029+.
87-90 points
Allen Meadows - BurghoundAnother palish crimson. Much less perfume than the Chassagne Champgains. A little more depth of vivid raspberry through the middle, firmer tannins and fair length. Drink from 2028-2034.
90-92 points
Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy - Tuscany, ITALY$44.99$44.99Bottle$539.88DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2026-2031)ABV: 13%Closure: Diam Cork
Juicy and vibrant with mildly chalky tannins and a long, elegant red fruited finish.
Since the 1960’s, the Cresti family has been running this estate located in Castelnuovo Berardenga in the southern part of the Chianti Classico region. This 80 hectare property, of which 23 are dedicated to wine, produces a traditional style of Chianti Classico with a modern edge to it.
Dark red core with black toned edges and a bright red hue. The nose expels aromas of red currants, Mediterranean herbs and red liquorice followed by hints of earth, tobacco and spice. Delicious red currant and red liquorice fruits are both juicy and vibrant in their flow across the medium weighted palate. Some red cherry, earth, dried herbs and spice form the underbelly. Energetic acidity and mildly chalky tannins with a long, elegant red fruited finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13% - 95
- 92
- 95
- 93
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2025 Carruades de Lafite Pre-Arrival OfferPauillac, Bordeaux, FRANCE$435.00$435.00Bottle$5,220.00DozenClosure: CorkOther Reviews...
A blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, 9% Cabernet France and 2% Petit Verdot, the 2025 Carruades de Lafite exhibits notes of sweet plums and berries mingled with notions of orange zest, cedar and cigar wrapper. Medium- to full-bodied, supple and fleshy, with powdery tannins, lively acids and a gently chalky finish, it checks in at 12.5% alcohol.
91-93 points
William Kelley - Robert Parker's Wine AdvocateThe 2025 Carruades de Lafite has quite an understated bouquet that needs a little more encouragement than usual. Blackberry, pencil box and light estuarine scents gradually unfurl. Fine delineation. The palate is medium-bodied, with sapid black fruit on the entry, gentle grip, wonderful balance and plenty of freshness and brightness on the finish. What a superb Carruades. Drink 2030-2050.
92-94 points
Neal Martin - VinousThe 2025 Carruades de Lafite is a total stunner. It's a great example of how Bordeaux has come along in the last few decades, in that it could have easily been a Grand Vin from another generation—maybe not from a great year, but from many years. Brisk acids and strong floral overtones immediately convey energy. Hints of lavender, rose petal, graphite and spice box are classic Lafite; all the Carruades lacks vis-à-vis its sibling is the classic Lafite mid-palate. This should blossom beautifully with time, and I would be in no rush to open it. What a delight. Drink 2033-2050.
92-94 points
Antonio Galloni - VinousA tight and linear red with red currant, sweet tobacco and cedar aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied, fine and creamy tannins. Bright finish. Extremely fine texture for the second wine of Lafite. Typical character of Carruades. A blend of 55% cabernet sauvignon, 34% merlot, 9% cabernet franc and 2% petit verdot.
95-96 points
James SucklingAn incredibly elegant second wine (which is classic Lafite), the 2025 Carruades De Lafite has cassis, raspberries, crushed violets, graphite, and spicy wood on the nose. Based on 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot, it's medium-bodied on the palate, with a very pure, focused mouthfeel, polished tannins, and flawless balance. It checks in at 12.69% alcohol with a pH of 3.62.
93-95 points
Jeb DunnuckUpfront and instantly so welcoming and friendly and fun, bright, lively, full on acidity kicks off the expression – so lifted with the focus on the pure fruit. Salty undercurrent that gives such an incredible contrast to the ripe strawberry fruit. But this is also lacking no richness – it’s got muscles, power, concentration and such capacity to age. Fabulous. 2% Petit Verdot completes the blend. Drink 2032-2045.
95 points
Georgina Hindle - DecanterLicorice, black currants, flowers, blackberries, plums, cocoa and leafy tobacco nuances create the perfume. The palate is even better with its vivid display of fresh, juicy, crisp, red, with black fruits paired with a fine line of tannins down the middle giving you grace, character, and refined freshness. The elegant palate is fresh, lively, clean, and pure, so you taste, and feel the power, as well as the vitality of the vintage. One of the most important points in the growing season were that from early June, to July 10, climatically it was hot and dry. The mid-summer rains following those dates provided much needed nourishment, along with the rains that fell July 22 became a good part of the success of the vintage. The wine is a blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc. 12.5% ABV. Picking took place September 2 - September 20. Yields were low at 27 hectoliters per hectare. Drink from 2029-2050.
93-95 points
Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar InsiderConditions of Pre Arrival Offer:
There is no minimum order unless stated.
All wines are 750ml unless indicated otherwise.
Payment is due at the time of ordering to secure stocks.
The wines are being collected and shipped in refrigerated containers and are due to arrive in late 2028.
Nicks Wine Merchants reserve the right to pass on any changes in Government duties and taxes and delivery charges from the date of order to the date of final delivery of the wine.
Errors and omissions excepted.
Delivery charges may apply - these can be determined by visiting the Freight Rates page.
- 90
- Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
2021 Casali del Barone Langhe NebbioloPiedmont, ITALY$34.99$34.99Bottle$419.88DozenCellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2025-2030)ABV: 13.5%Closure: CorkRed fruited with lively acidity and stern tannins lending a grippy feel to the mid length finish.
Deep dark red core with black toned edges and a red to brick red tinged hue. Earthy red raspberry and red liquorice aromas intermingle with dried herb, faint rose petal and spice notes. Red liquorice and cherry flavours meld in a backdrop highlighted by earth, dried herb and spicy tobacco elements. Lively acidity with stern tannins lending a grippy feel to the mid length finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.5%- 97
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- 97
- Nicks Import
- Reduced
2021 Castellare di Castellina I Sodi di San NiccoloTuscany, ITALYReduced from$175.00$150.00$150.00Bottle$1,800.00DozenClosure: CorkFirst bottled in 1977, I Sodi di San Niccolò quickly established itself as one of the pioneering Super Tuscans, notable for being crafted entirely from indigenous grapes, 85% Sangioveto (Sangiovese) and 15% Malvasia Nera. The fruit comes from Castellare di Castellina’s oldest parcels in Castellina in Chianti, where low-yielding vines grow at 430m on limestone-rich soils. Fermented in stainless steel and aged for 24 months in French oak (half new), the wine has long been recognised for its structure, depth, and longevity, and remains Castellare’s flagship bottling.
Other Reviews....
Cocoa powder and red berries on the nose, some softly ferrous notes with tobacco and rose florality. Thick and glossy but lively with lots of life and energy. This is broad and powerful, complex and muscular with flesh and chew. Tannins are grippy but they're joined by mouthwatering acidity that lifts the expression. Sun-kissed black fruit and spiced on the finish. It still feels a little compact at this stage, but is full of concentration and finesse with graphite, slate and a bloody tang on the finish. Grapes come from the best two crus of the estate. 2021 saw the latest harvest ever at the estate finishing on October 20th. Winemaker Alessandro Cellai. All I Sodi wines feature endangered bird species on the label, this one is the orange-headed bunting. Drink 2027-2044.
97 points
Georgina Hindle - DecanterDark flavors of cherry, plum and blackberry are fresh, focused and framed by a light touch of toasty oak. Iron, earth, eucalyptus and tobacco notes add depth as this red plays out on the long aftertaste. Intense and resonant, with superb balance and excellent potential. Sangioveto and Malvasia Nera. Best from 2028 through 2045.
97 points
Bruce Sanderson - Wine SpectatorA dark and minerally wine with a fresh, meaty nose of violets and restrained red cherries. Dense and full-bodied, with tense fruit and acidity, firm yet velvety tannins and a savory and harmonious finish. This has the potential to last decades. Drink or hold.
96 points
Aldo Fiordelli - JamesSuckling.comThe 2021 I Sodi di San Niccolò is a powerhouse. Many recent vintages have been showier, but not the 2021. It's a wine that is going to require many years to shed its baby fat. Dark fruit, lavender, rose petal, menthol and grilled herbs begin to emerge with air, but only with great reluctance. The 2021 is a wine for readers who can be patient. Drink 2026-2036.
95+ points
Antonio Galloni - VinousA wonderfully balanced vintage in Tuscany, and this wine, which is always one to follow, just slow burns into brilliance. What I mean by that is that there is a delicacy immediately evident, savoury broth and crushed rose petals on the opening, gentle woodsmoke and fragrant raspberry leaf and redcurrant fruits. Its tannins give a gentle caress. Alessandro Cellai winemaker, 66% new oak, 10 months in bottle after barrel ageing.
97 points
Jane Anson- Tuscany, ITALY$145.00$145.00Bottle$1,740.00DozenABV: 14.5%Closure: Cork
Castello dei Rampolla is located in Panzano’s famous Conca d’Oro or ‘golden basin” district, an amphitheater of striking, pristine hillside vineyards in Tuscany. The di Napoli family has owned Rampolla since 1739, and Alceo di Napoli inherited the estate in 1965. At the time, Rampolla was essentially a summer residence. Wheat, olive trees and other mixed crops were cultivated, but there were no vineyards. With the assistance of Piero Antinori amongst others, Alceo began making and bottling wines under the Rampollo label in 1975. Rampolla are now a reference point for the highest level of quality that does not fit into Chianti Classico or Brunello for Tuscany.
In 1980, Rampolla produced their first vintage of Sammarco, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese. It was the early days of Italy’s infatuation with international grapes that would in turn bring a handful of wines a level of recognition and accompanying prestige that was unthinkable back then. Antinori’s first vintage of Tignanello was 1971. Solaia followed in 1978. Tenuta dell’Ornellaia did not exist yet and Sassicaia was still under the radar. It was the very beginning of an entire movement. The first Sammarcos were 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Sangiovese. Merlot was added in 2003, gradually replacing Sangiovese and giving the wine softer, more modern contours as well as greater early approachability. The Cabernet has always been aged in French oak barrels, with an increasing move towards larger 500-liter formats, while the Sangiovese sees only cask.
Other Reviews....
The Castello dei Rampolla 2018 Sammarco is Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese. This wine grips tightly to the palate with ample fruit weight and rich concentration. It is chiseled and tight, mostly thanks to its structure and tannins, giving this wine great promise for future aging. The Sammarco stands apart from the other wines in this portfolio that all promote a punchy, bright or natural style. This bottle brings on the brawn, ripe fruit, black olive and a much greater sense of lasting power. Production is 16,672 bottles and 150 magnums. Drink 2024 - 2045.
95 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Feb 10, 2023)The 2018 Sammarco is brilliant. Bright and explosive, with tons of linear drive, the 2018 is exceptionally polished. Cabernet Sauvignon is up to 80% of the blend, and that very much comes through in a wine endowed with tremendous purity. Blue/purplish fruit, lavender, sage, mint and blood orange all race across the palate. I love the freshness here. Drink 2028-2058.
98 points
Antonio Galloni - VinousGorgeous aromas of blackberries and redcurrants with violets and rosemary follow through to a medium body with fine, tense tannins and an intense, minerally finish. Racy and polished at the end. Long-lasting. Drink after 2026.
96 points
JamesSuckling.com - Tuscany, ITALY$290.00$290.00Bottle$3,480.00DozenABV: 14.5%Closure: Cork
Castello dei Rampolla is located in Panzano’s famous Conca d’Oro or ‘golden basin” district, an amphitheater of striking, pristine hillside vineyards in Tuscany. The di Napoli family has owned Rampolla since 1739, and Alceo di Napoli inherited the estate in 1965. At the time, Rampolla was essentially a summer residence. Wheat, olive trees and other mixed crops were cultivated, but there were no vineyards. With the assistance of Piero Antinori amongst others, Alceo began making and bottling wines under the Rampollo label in 1975. Rampolla are now a reference point for the highest level of quality that does not fit into Chianti Classico or Brunello for Tuscany.
Alceo di Napoli dreamt of planting high-density vineyards with Bordeaux varieties, something that was unheard of in Chianti Classico at the time. In 1988, di Napoli started clearing the land, which at the time was planted with olive trees and housed the property’s stables. Importantly, this land had never been farmed for grapes before, so it was virgin land. The first terraces were planted with Cabernet Sauvignon in 1990. Petit Verdot followed in 1991 and 1992. Sadly, Alceo di Napoli passed away in 1991, but his children Luca and Maurizia stepped-in to run the family estate. In 1994, Rampolla converted to biodynamic farming, the d’Alceo plots have essentially been farmed biodynamically since the beginning, as they had no real previous history to speak of, nor conventional farming regime from which to adjust. Today, d’Alceo is 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Petit Verdot. The first vintages spent about 18 months in French oak barrels. Since 2007, d’Alceo spends 10-12 months in barrel, with only 10-15% new barrels, a decision Rampolla took to preserve more freshness and reduce the flavor impact of oak.
Other Reviews....
The 2018 d'Alceo is mostly Cabernet Sauvignon (85%), with Petit Verdot (15%) in a supporting role. The wine reveals an inky dark appearance with dried blackberry, rum cake, succulent blackberry and syrupy kirsch. There is a good amount of fruit weight to carry the wine over the palate, but the quality of the fruit is superb; and the finish is finely textured and silky despite the robust aromas. It is powerful, yet weightless at the same time. That in itself is something of a small miracle. Fruit is sourced from across a six-hectare vineyard with south and southeast exposures. Production is 11,028 bottles and 100 magnums. Drink 2025 - 2048.
97 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Feb 10, 2023)The 2018 D'Alceo is a wild, exotic wine. Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot come together in a wine that is sumptuous, layered and exceptionally beautiful. Inky blue/purplish fruit, sage, mint, lavender and chocolate are some of the many notes that take shape. The 2018 was fermented in cement then aged 12 months in a combination of 500L tonneaux and barriques. This really blooms with time. Drink 2028-2058.
99 points
Antonio Galloni - VinousLots of blackcurrant and blackberry aromas follow through to a full body with firm tannins and a chewy finish. Lots of black licorice, aniseed and light asphalt. Lead pencil, too. Try after 2025.
96 points
JamesSuckling.com - 94
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2019 Castello dei Rampolla Liu MerlotTuscany, ITALY$125.00$125.00Bottle$1,500.00DozenABV: 14.5%Closure: CorkCastello dei Rampolla is located in Panzano’s famous Conca d’Oro or ‘golden basin” district, an amphitheater of striking, pristine hillside vineyards in Tuscany. The di Napoli family has owned Rampolla since 1739, and Alceo di Napoli inherited the estate in 1965. At the time, Rampolla was essentially a summer residence. Wheat, olive trees and other mixed crops were cultivated, but there were no vineyards. With the assistance of Piero Antinori amongst others, Alceo began making and bottling wines under the Rampollo label in 1975. Rampolla are now a reference point for the highest level of quality that does not fit into Chianti Classico or Brunello for Tuscany.
Other Reviews....
The 2019 Merlot Liu' is another outrageously beautiful wine from Rampolla. Deep, inky and explosive, the 2019 possesses tremendous energy to match its purity of fruit. Blueberry, spice, leather, menthol and espresso build into the potent, tannic finish. Readers will find a serious Merlot packed with fruit and structure. Rampolla planted Merlot in 2000 and 2003 to soften Sammarco, but the vines turned out to be more productive than expected, giving birth to the Liu'. The 2019 was aged in cement and terracotta. I am not entirely sure how the Liu' will mature, but I also doubt that will be much a concern for the vast majority of readers. Drink 2022 - 2034.
94 points
Antonio Galloni - VinousThe Castello dei Rampolla 2019 Liù is a relatively new wine (the first vintage made was the 2018) and a pure expression of Merlot. The wine is generously endowed with lots of fruit flavor and a distinctive punchiness that adds a bright and lifted quality to the bouquet. It sports a mid-weight approach with plenty of summer fresh cherry, plum and other purple fruits. It's hard not to feel immediately attracted to this wine, especially given its very vivid and bright personality. You'll have a lot of fun drinking Liù straight out of the gate or likewise waiting for it to complete its bottle evolution. Drink 2022 - 2038.
94+ points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Oct 2021)Berries, cherries and violets with some black-olive and black-truffle notes. Very complex. Medium-to full-bodied with linear tannins that are polished and fine, running through the center palate. Tight at the end. Very pretty and racy,]. Merlot. Unfiltered. Drink after 2023.
93 points
James SucklingI put my nose in it and thought ‘This isn’t Sangiovese”. It’s 100% Merlot, spending nove mesi in tini di cemento/anfore di terracotta. No oak.
Love this wine. Earth, new leather, black olives, blueberry and fresh blackberry, with a dried flower perfume above. Medium-bodied, thick with brushed suede tannin, plum and earth, and again that floral perfume wafting about. It has fairly fresh acidity, but it’s all about those terracotta tannins and slightly wild ‘natural’ feel. Finish is long with rugged grip. Such presence and character here.
95 points
Gary Walsh - The Wine Front- Mendoza, ARGENTINA$140.00$140.00Bottle$1,680.00DozenCellar: Drink now - 10 Years (2026-2036)ABV: 13.5%Closure: Cork
Rich, concentrated and polished, this is a wonderfully finessed and powerful Malbec.
Nicola Catena planted his first Malbec vineyard in Mendoza in 1902 and today the estate is run by Nicholás Catena and his daughter Laura. Malbec continues to be the estate's focus and the winery's pristine vineyards lie at the base of the Andes on soils of sand, lime and stone at altitudes between 920 and 1120 metres above sea level. Over the last 20 years, the fastidious vineyard work of Nicholas and Laura has paid dividends and Catena Zapata is now one of Argentina's most famous estates.
2022 was an exceptional year at Catena Zapata from every possible qualitative standpoint. Alejandro Vigil, Catena Zapata’s Head Winemaker says: “This is the best year that I have lived through”.
Magnificent depth of colour featuring a super saturated inky black heart along with a dark purple black tinged hue. Perfumed aromas of violet, red to black currant, blueberry and liquorice stream through the nostrils complimented by some vanillin cedar, subtle tobacco, earth and spicy dried herb notes. Rich and concentrated yet gorgeously refined, the mid weighted palate has a deep coating of blackcurrant, blueberry, dark cherry and liquorice fruits flowing across it. Compact, grainy tannin structure with notions of vanillin cedar, earthy dark chocolate, subtle infusions of fresh herbs and delicate spicy tobacco elements outlined across the back half. Polished and fresh with a slightly dusty feel, its wonderfully finessed and powerful. Finishes long, juicy and expansive.
Drink over the next 8-10 years.
Alc. 13.5%
Other Reviews…..
The 2022 Malbec Nicasia Vineyard was sourced from Paraje Altamira and aged for up to 21 months in oak barrels. Aromas of violets and lavender blend with cassis and intense blue fruit notes. Delicate yet juicy with a plush texture, it shows fine oak integration. It's precise in its fruit expression, finishing long with refined structure and a polished impression. The fresh, dry 2022 vintage lends additional nuance to this delicious wine. Compared to Catena Zapata’s single-vineyard wines, Nicasia typically receives less attention, but this is a distinctive, captivating Malbec in and of itself. Drink 2025-2045.
97 points
Joaquín Hidalgo – Vinous
This is concentrated, with dense dark fruit. The nose shows blue fruit, tar and tapenade. The palate is juicy and medium- to full-bodied, with delineated concentration, dark fruit flavors and voluminous presence balanced by precise tannins. Drink now.
96 points
JamesSuckling.com - Mendoza, ARGENTINA$39.99$39.99Bottle$479.88DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2026-2032)ABV: 13.5%Closure: Diam Cork
Juicy textured with delicious blue to dark fruits finishing long, fresh and elegant.
Nicolas Catena has been instrumental in Argentina’s progress over the last three decades, bringing the country's wine industry into line with world class standards. What you can now get for your money in the present day climate are seriously good expressions of the nation's signature varietal, Malbec, that rival many Australian reds for punch and price. Made by fourth generation vintner Laura Catena and chief winemaker, Alejandro Vigil, this wine is sourced from three high altitude vineyards. Each vineyard is specifically farmed in preparation for its role in the final blend. Eighty year old vines in the Lunlunta (Maipù) vineyard lend soft, sweet texture whilst the intense sunshine in the Gualtallary (Tupungato) vineyard provides explosive floral aromatics and a concentrated structure. The last component is from El Cipillo in Eugenio Bustos, which has loamy sands and thick calcareous layers sit over rounded rock. Maturation takes place in a mix of new, second and third use French oak barrels for a period of 11-13 months.
Midnight black dark red colour with a purple red tinged hue. Aromas of blueberry, cherry and red plum sail out of the glass mixing with dried herb, earth and spice notes along the way. Delicious juicy blueberry, dark cherry, plum and red liquorice fruits are delivered with impressive intensity and energy across the mid weighted palate. Infusions of violet, dried herbs, earth and spice linger across the back half. Refined tannins finishing long, fresh and elegant.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5% - Mendoza, ARGENTINA$110.00$110.00Bottle$1,320.00DozenCellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2026-2032)ABV: 13.5%Closure: Stelvin
Medium bodied, elegant and fresh with juicy blue to dark fruits.
Catena Alta is an assemblage of historic rows within the Catena family Estate vineyards. Fruit was sourced from five different vineyards with maturation in a mix of new and older oak for a period of 12-18 months.
2022 was an exceptional year at Catena Zapata from every possible qualitative standpoint. Alejandro Vigil, Catena Zapata’s Head Winemaker says: “This is the best year that I have lived through”.
Dense inky black heart with a bright red to dark red hue. Wonderfully fragrant nose with aromas of ripe blueberry, violet, dark cherry and liquorice followed by whispers of vanillin cedar, earth, dark chocolate and spice. Medium bodied, elegant and fresh, the palate is layered with juicy blueberry, cherry and red liquorice fruits. Spicy vanillin cedar, subtle earthy dark chocolate and dried herb elements decorate the back half. Vibrant acidity and fine grained tannins with a long, highly polished finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews…..
The 2022 Malbec Catena Alta brings together historic vineyards from Luján de Cuyo and Uco Valley to capture the best of both regions: Luján’s generous, supple tannins and Uco’s juicy, fresh fruit. Aged for up to 18 months in barrel, this wine is the essence of Mendoza Malbec. Intense aromas of fresh plum and delicate balsamic notes float over oak and a floral hint in the background. With indulgent depth and a juicy flow, the 2022 balances plush tannins with refined texture to produce a long and sapid palate with a touch of intensity and subtle concentration. This is a rich wine that raises the bar for Mendoza Malbec. Drink 2026-2037.
95 Points
Joaquin Hidalgo – VinousRacy berries, cherries and touches of white pepper and tamarind. Very juicy and fluid, with fine-grained tannins and a mouthwatering finish. Long, succulent and very poised. Drink or hold.
93 Points
JamesSuckling.com - Mendoza, ARGENTINA$185.00$185.00Bottle$2,220.00DozenCellar: Drink now - 10 Years (2026-2036)ABV: 13.5%Closure: Cork
A wonderfully finessed Cabernet that concludes long and juicy yet elegant.
A blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Cabernet Franc. Dense inky black heart with a deep dark purple red hue. Wonderfully perfumed, the nose offers up alluring scents of violet, red to black currant, liquorice and blueberry followed by some spicy vanillin cedar, earth and fresh herb notes. A sustained wave of rich red to black currant, red liquorice and blueberry fruits swamp the refined medium bodied palate. Showing impressive concentration and finesse, notions of spicy vanillin cedar, dried herbs, subtle tobacco and earthy dark chocolate form the undercurrent. Delightful freshness with polished yet structured tannins and a long, juicy yet elegant conclusion.
Drink over the next 8-10 years.
Alc. 13.5%Other Reviews….
The 2022 Birth of Cabernet continues the greatness quest of the 2021, blending a majority of Cabernet Sauvignon with 100% whole-cluster fermentation on the smaller 10% amount of Cabernet Franc only. Medium-bodied, it holds a wealth of complex aromas and flavors within its folds, from fresh tobacco to dark chocolate. Hints of pencil shavings and dried herb beckon as well along a continuum of cassis-laden tannins and spiced oak. Drink 2030-2042.
98 Points
Virginie Boone – JebDunnuck.comThis has a very elegant nose of cassis and fresh, tight fruit. The palate is medium- to full-bodied, juicy, incisive and saline, with a fresh side. This comes from a 17-year-old vineyard planted in Agrelo. Drink now.
96 Points
JamesSuckling.com - Provence, FRANCE$39.99$39.99Bottle$479.88DozenCellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2026-2028)ABV: 13%Closure: Stelvin
A moreish, slippery textured Provence Rose.
Made from a blend of Grenache, Rolle, Cinsault, Syrah and Tibouren, Whispering Angel is one of Provence’s leading producers of Rose. Pale salmon pink tinged colour. Streaming out of the glass with impressive intensity are aromas of peach, raspberry, strawberry and musk followed by some wet stone notes. Delicious peach, raspberry and strawberry fruits roll around the mouth filling palate with notions of pomegranate, musk and wet stone the undercard. Slippery textured it possesses brisk acidity, finishing long, shapely and quite moreish.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13% - Cahors, FRANCE$29.99$29.99Bottle$359.88DozenCellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2026-2030)ABV: 13%Closure: Stelvin
Juicy and bright with a savoury earthy dried herb finish.
A certified organic blend of 95% Malbec and 5% Merlot matured for 16 months in concrete tanks. Dense inky black colour with a dark purple hue. Dark cherry, plum and blueberry scents infused with dried herbs drift from the glass followed by some earth and spice notes. Juicy morello cherry, liquorice and blueberry fruits are underscored by bright acidity. Some spicy dried herb and earthy graphite like characters tail off onto the back half. Grainy tannins with a savoury earthy dried herb finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 13% - 98
- 95
- 95
- 95
- Biodynamic
2020 Ceretto Barbaresco AsiliPiedmont, ITALY$599.00$599.00Bottle$7,188.00DozenABV: 14%Closure: CorkThe Ceretto family are pioneers in Piedmont, and much of their international renown has been built on their fastidious work in the vineyards, and their (at the time) revolutionary approach to promoting the concept of cru wines in the region. This idea of highlighting specific vineyards chosen for their enduring excellence was something Bruno and Marcello Ceretto learnt after visiting Burgundy in the 1960's. Applying this approach to Barolo and Barbaresco has further elevated these wines to now be counted amongst the most appreciated and prestigious wines in the world.
Other Reviews....
The Ceretto 2020 Barbaresco Asili (a certified organic wine) embraces purple fruit flavors with summer plum mostly and some blackcurrant. The wine opens to a dark garnet color with the benefit of that pretty transparency that comes with Nebbiolo. The Asili seems to carry a little more fruit weight and power in this warm vintage. Drink 2025 - 2044.
95 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Aug 25, 2023)The 2020 Barbaresco Asili is quite simply textbook Asili. Fragrant and silky, with tremendous fruit purity and class to burn, the 2020 is so impressive. All the elements are so well balanced in a Barbaresco that impresses with its pedigree. A long, beautifully persistent finish rounds things out in style. Drink 2025-2040.
95 points
Antonio Galloni - VinousExtremely spicy with rose stem, orange peel, and some cedar cuttings. Full-bodied, very chewy tannins. Almost leathery. Turns minerally and irony. This needs time to soften. Better after 2026.
95 points
JamesSuckling.comIf there is a MGA which benefits from the volume of 2020 vintage it is Asili which is well known for its lean, pure elegance. Parma violet is wrapped up in watermelon fruit, leafy lightness and a floor of spices among smoky woodland, liquorice and roots. The lush fruit on the palate is sustained by crisp acidity and dense, silky tannins with a grippy finish due to its youth, soaked with a savoury blood orange aftertaste. A super-elegant Asili with volume. A great wine. Drink 2023 - 2040.
98 points
Aldo Fiordelli - Decanter- 96
- 96
- 96
- Biodynamic
2019 Ceretto Barolo BussiaPiedmont, ITALY$430.00$430.00Bottle$5,160.00DozenABV: 14.5%Closure: CorkThe Ceretto family are pioneers in Piedmont, and much of their international renown has been built on their fastidious work in the vineyards, and their (at the time) revolutionary approach to promoting the concept of cru wines in the region. This idea of highlighting specific vineyards chosen for their enduring excellence was something Bruno and Marcello Ceretto learnt after visiting Burgundy in the 1960's. Applying this approach to Barolo and Barbaresco has further elevated these wines to now be counted amongst the most appreciated and prestigious wines in the world.
Other Reviews....
An organic wine, the Ceretto 2019 Barolo Bussia is a wine of beautiful depth and streamlined intensity. This Barolo offers dark fruit flavors, but you also get crushed stone, rust, a touch of exotic spice or grilled herb and fresh licorice root. The ensemble is beautiful, and what stands out most is the polished endurance and silky consistency of the mouthfeel. Drink 2025 - 2048.
96 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Aug 25, 2023)The 2019 Barolo Bussia is rich, deep and explosive, with all the deeply-pitched, spice and balsamic notes that are so typical of Bussia in full display. A broad, ample Barolo, the Bussia is seriously impressive from start to finish. All the elements are so well balanced. There's plenty of tannin, but it is all nicely integrated into the wine's frame. Time in the glass brings out the wine's inner perfume and explosive energy. This aromatically beguiling, layered Barolo is superb. Drink 2029-2044.
96 points
Antonio Galloni - VinousA fine and open grained Bussia with a smoky, grilled meat and spice character to the plum fruit. Medium to full body. Soft and velvety and juicy. This will develop into something very serious. Needs three or four years to open. Best after 2025.
96 points
JamesSuckling.com- 95
- 94
- 96
- Biodynamic
2019 Ceretto Barolo Rocche di CastiglionePiedmont, ITALY$430.00$430.00Bottle$5,160.00DozenABV: 14%Closure: CorkThe Ceretto family are pioneers in Piedmont, and much of their international renown has been built on their fastidious work in the vineyards, and their (at the time) revolutionary approach to promoting the concept of cru wines in the region. This idea of highlighting specific vineyards chosen for their enduring excellence was something Bruno and Marcello Ceretto learnt after visiting Burgundy in the 1960's. Applying this approach to Barolo and Barbaresco has further elevated these wines to now be counted amongst the most appreciated and prestigious wines in the world.
Other Reviews....
Now in its second vintage, the organic Ceretto 2019 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is just phenomenal. The wine balances power, texture and bouquet with a pretty set of aromas that recall redcurrant, plump cherry, rusty nail and earthy iris root. Wines from Castiglione Falletto always have a very etched or focused quality, and I think you will discover that here. Drink 2025 - 2048.
96+ points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Aug 25, 2023)The 2019 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is all class. It emerges from a small sliver of land in Rocche di Castiglione proper, which is just below the Ceretto family's Bricco Rocche property. Elegant and nuanced, the 2019 is a gorgeous, aromatic Barolo that captures all the finesse of this site. Silky tannins give this weightless, intense Barolo tons of sheer appeal, even in the early going. Drink 2029-2044.
95 points
Antonio Galloni - VinousRed cherries with dried flowers and fresh leather on the nose. Hints of smoke. Full to medium body. Firm and chewy tannins. Needs time to soften. Better after 2025.
94 points
JamesSuckling.com- 94
- Biodynamic
2019 Ceretto BaroloPiedmont, ITALY$190.00$190.00Bottle$2,280.00DozenABV: 14.5%Closure: CorkThe Ceretto family are pioneers in Piedmont, and much of their international renown has been built on their fastidious work in the vineyards, and their (at the time) revolutionary approach to promoting the concept of cru wines in the region. This idea of highlighting specific vineyards chosen for their enduring excellence was something Bruno and Marcello Ceretto learnt after visiting Burgundy in the 1960's. Applying this approach to Barolo and Barbaresco has further elevated these wines to now be counted amongst the most appreciated and prestigious wines in the world.
Other Reviews....
Already showing white truffle, plum, and meat on the nose. Medium- to full-bodied with firm and chewy tannins that are polished and racy. Needs time to open. Better after 2026.
94 points
JamesSuckling.com- 94
- 94
- 92
- 94
- Biodynamic
2020 Ceretto Barbaresco BernadotPiedmont, ITALY$390.00$390.00Bottle$4,680.00DozenABV: 14%Closure: CorkThe Ceretto family are pioneers in Piedmont, and much of their international renown has been built on their fastidious work in the vineyards, and their (at the time) revolutionary approach to promoting the concept of cru wines in the region. This idea of highlighting specific vineyards chosen for their enduring excellence was something Bruno and Marcello Ceretto learnt after visiting Burgundy in the 1960's. Applying this approach to Barolo and Barbaresco has further elevated these wines to now be counted amongst the most appreciated and prestigious wines in the world.
Other Reviews....
The organic 2020 Barbaresco Bernadot offers a darker fruit performance with black cherry and blackcurrant. Like the other wines from this hot and sunny vintage, you taste the ripeness of the fruit and some background softness that comes with the territory (and the growing season). The Ceretto team delivers a deft hand, and you'll notice the etched sharpness and focus of the wine in terms of mouthfeel. Drink 2025 - 2043.
94 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Aug 25, 2023)The 2020 Barbaresco Bernardot is a super-classic Barbaresco from Treiso. Dried cherry, spice, tobacco, leather, incense and cedar all grace this understated, exquisite Barbaresco. Time in the glass brings out compelling inner sweetness and perfume. This is such a gorgeous wine. Drink 2025-2038.
94 points
Antonio Galloni - VinousVery floral with orange blossom, iron, cedar, and dried spice. Medium body, firm and slightly lean in the middle palate. Firm and racy. Lightly chewy. Needs a couple of years to soften. Drink after 2025.
92 points
JamesSuckling.comBeautiful florality and almost baked cherry sweets - cherry drops - on the nose, rose, Caramac bars, vanilla, white chocolate and lavender - an infusion of sweet, fruit and floral elements. Statuesque on the palate, ripe and massy, but so well textured - like crushed velvet with a powdery and also fleshy aspect to the tannins so they expand and fill the mouth and leave a lingering chalky, powdery salinity on the tongue and cheeks. Round, ample yet defined and detailed, so much going on but with no one element overpowering another building to a really impressive overall impression. Acidity is beautiful, and there are cola flecks that give the freshness and savoury touch. The power shines at the end where the tannins constrict and just grip the final flavour, so you know this is a big wine with long ageing potential. A deliciou addition to the Place de Bordeaux this year. Drink 2023 - 2033.
94 points
Georgina Hindle - Decanter- Bierzo, SPAIN$89.99$89.99Bottle$1,079.88DozenABV: 13%Closure: Cork
Cesar Marquez has Bierzo running through his veins, and is the latest generation of the Perez family to own the leading Castro Ventosa winery in north-western Spain. Growing up surrounded by the region's leading exponents, including a lengthy apprenticeship with one of the world's greatest winemakers, his uncle Raul Perez, has shaped much of what Cesar values in wine. While he still manages the family estate, Cezar started his own venture in 2015, and is already one of the most exciting young prospects in Spain.
Having a deep understanding and access to some of the best vineyards Bierzo has to offer, Cezar focuses on preserving purity and freshness, highlighting the promise Mencia has in the right place when made with attention to detail. Cezar is structuring his line-up of wines in Burgundian fashion, making a broader appellation wine, a village wine, along with several single vineyard offerings. Winemaking is similar on all wines, with grapes partially destemmed and fermented in open barriques, before spending 12 months in old barrels without any racking or top ups before bottling the following winter. These are wines that are not just great examples of Bierzo Mencia, but wines that truly stand shoulder to shoulder with the finest from any region or country.
Rapolao is the coolest of the single vineyard wines, located in the village of Valtuille and is certainly the most famous vineyard in Bierzo.
Other Reviews....
César's 2023 El Rapolao was sourced from a centenary plot in the coldest part of the village, where the soils are rich in iron and organic matter. It fermented with 30% full clusters in small 1,000-liter vats, with a short maceration of 17 days and an élevage in used 500-liter oak barrels. It comes in at 12.75% alcohol, a pH of 3.58 and 5.38 grams of acidity, with lower alcohol and more freshness and acidity than the previous vintage. This is a place with more rusticity, always a little earthier, with slightly dusty tannins. 1,911 bottles were filled in May 2025. Drink 2026-2036.
96+ points
Luis Gutiérrez - Robert Parker's Wine AdvocateThe 2023 El Rapolao was sourced from old vines in Valtuille. It opens with violet, herbs, a touch of soft pine resin and rose. The palate is juicy, supple and gently creamy, with fine tannins and a clear expression. Tasted just weeks after bottling, this will gain further complexity with time. Drink 2025-2038.
95 points
Joaquín Hidalgo - VinousRed cherries and herbs on the nose, with hints of tapenade, elderberries and earth adding depth. The palate is medium- to full-bodied, marked by fine-grained yet firm tannins and a focused thread of dark fruit that carries through to a tight, linear finish. Drink now or hold.
96 points
Jacobo García Andrade - JamesSuckling.com - Bierzo, SPAIN$57.99$57.99Bottle$695.88DozenABV: 12.5%Closure: Cork
Cesar Marquez has Bierzo running through his veins, and is the latest generation of the Perez family to own the leading Castro Ventosa winery in north-western Spain. Growing up surrounded by the region's leading exponents, including a lengthy apprenticeship with one of the world's greatest winemakers, his uncle Raul Perez, has shaped much of what Cesar values in wine. While he still manages the family estate, Cezar started his own venture in 2015, and is already one of the most exciting young prospects in Spain.
Having a deep understanding and access to some of the best vineyards Bierzo has to offer, Cezar focuses on preserving purity and freshness, highlighting the promise Mencia has in the right place when made with attention to detail. Cezar is structuring his line-up of wines in Burgundian fashion, making a broader appellation wine, a village wine, along with several single vineyard offerings. Winemaking is similar on all wines, with grapes partially destemmed and fermented in open barriques, before spending 12 months in old barrels without any racking or top ups before bottling the following winter. These are wines that are not just great examples of Bierzo Mencia, but wines that truly stand shoulder to shoulder with the finest from any region or country.
Valtuille Vino de Villa replaces the previous Las Firmas bottling, and is Cezar's village wine sourced from two sites in the village of Valtuille, considered the most prestigious village in Bierzo.
Other Reviews....
The village red 2023 Valtuille Vino de Villa comes from sandy soils on closer plots. This year, it's 85% Mencía, 10% Alicante Bouschet and 5% other white and red varieties like Bastardo, Sousón or Estaladiña. It fermented with some full clusters in 1,000-liter vessels and matured in 500-liter barrels. It's juicy, round, harmonious and fruit-driven, with freshness and elegance. It has a moderate 12.55% alcohol, a pH of 3.51 and 5.42 grams of acidity. 6,890 bottles produced. It was bottled in March 2025. Drink 2025-2032.
94+ points
Luis Gutiérrez - Robert Parker's Wine AdvocateThe 2023 Valtuille Vino de Villa opens with aromas of pomegranate, violet, rose and cherry. The palate is compact, juicy and tense, with a slightly more enveloping texture and a fresh, sustained finish. Drink 2025-2035.
93 points
Joaquín Hidalgo - VinousPerfumed on the nose, with dried geraniums, rose petals and herbal nuances. The palate is medium- to full-bodied, showing an ethereal character with delicate fruit. Subtle and refined, with a graceful finish. This comes from five parcels planted in the village of Valtuille. It’s classified as Vino de Villa, the designation for a village wine. Fermented with about 30% whole clusters. Drink now.
96 points
Jacobo García Andrade - JamesSuckling.com - Bierzo, SPAIN$89.99$89.99Bottle$1,079.88DozenABV: 13%Closure: Cork
Cesar Marquez has Bierzo running through his veins, and is the latest generation of the Perez family to own the leading Castro Ventosa winery in north-western Spain. Growing up surrounded by the region's leading exponents, including a lengthy apprenticeship with one of the world's greatest winemakers, his uncle Raul Perez, has shaped much of what Cesar values in wine. While he still manages the family estate, Cezar started his own venture in 2015, and is already one of the most exciting young prospects in Spain.
Having a deep understanding and access to some of the best vineyards Bierzo has to offer, Cezar focuses on preserving purity and freshness, highlighting the promise Mencia has in the right place when made with attention to detail. Cezar is structuring his line-up of wines in Burgundian fashion, making a broader appellation wine, a village wine, along with several single vineyard offerings. Winemaking is similar on all wines, with grapes partially destemmed and fermented in open barriques, before spending 12 months in old barrels without any racking or top ups before bottling the following winter. These are wines that are not just great examples of Bierzo Mencia, but wines that truly stand shoulder to shoulder with the finest from any region or country.
Pico Ferreira is located in the village of Corullon, and while only 300m from Sufreiral it’s on the opposite side of the mountain with a north-east exposure. Soils here are very poor, thin and rocky slate where the roots struggle to penetrate. This leads to small clusters and wines that are often more robust than others in the portfolio.
Other Reviews....
The 2023 Pico Ferreira comes from a lieu-dit in the village of Corullón, a northwest-facing, shady slope planted with centenary vines on slate soils. It fermented with 30% full clusters and indigenous yeasts in 1,000-liter vats with 21 days of maceration and matured in a 1,200-liter oak vat and 600-liter barrels for one year. This is a little more discrete and remained closed after being in the glass for a while, whereas the other wines opened up. It comes in at 12.98% alcohol, with a pH of 3.57 and 5.36 grams of acidity, with abundant, slightly dusty tannins. 1,980 bottles produced. It was bottled in January 2025. Drink 2026-2036.
97 points
Luis Gutiérrez - Robert Parker's Wine AdvocateThe 2023 Pico Ferreira is Mencía grown on slate with some clay, a rarer soil type in Bierzo. This aged in 500- to 600-liter barrels. Aromas include soft herbs, a hint of balsam, pomegranate and cherry. The slate-driven palate is compact and tense, yet juicy, with fine-grained tannins and long flavor. Drink 2025-2043.
96 points
Joaquín Hidalgo - VinousThis is subtle and floral, with aromas of nervy herbs and red cherries. It’s juicy, delicious and precise, with fine-grained tannins and subtle fruit in the firm and flavorful finish. This comes from a vineyard planted on calcareous soil at high altitude. Drink now or hold.
97 points
Jacobo García Andrade - JamesSuckling.com - Hermitage, Northern Rhone, FRANCE$799.00$799.00Bottle$9,588.00DozenABV: 14%Closure: Cork
Other Reviews....
The pristine 2022 Ermitage Le Pavillon stands tall next to both the 2021 and 2023 vintages. Vividly displaying ripe black fruit, licorice, pencil shaving, crushed violet notes and a flicker of mocha, the full-bodied and concentrated 2022 shows even more richness on the palate than the Le Méal from the same vintage. Round and generous, this is a Le Pavillon for the hedonists, gracefully winding down with a long and savory finale. Drink 2028-2040.
96 points
Nicolas Greinacher - VinousDense and well-composed, this showcases mulberries, plums, roasted meat, dried herbs, leather and stones. Full-bodied with ripe, sinewy tannins. The spicy influence on this warm, dry vintage brings vivacity, intensity and character to a concentrated core of dark berries. This shows solid frame and structure and a lingering, peppery finish. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink from 2029.
98 points
James SucklingA profound and utterly gorgeous wine, the 2022 Ermitage Le Pavillon reveals notes of ozone, graphite, asphalt, ripe black fruits, and leather. Full-bodied, concentrated, and rich on the palate, it has plenty of ripe tannins and a blockbuster finish. Coming all from the Les Bessards lieu-dit located on the western side of Hermitage, this beauty was 85% destemmed and spent 18 months in a mix of demi-muids and puncheons. It has riveting purity, depth, and length, and certainly tops out my scale. Hide bottles for 7-8 years and enjoy through 2062. Drink 2032-2060
100 points
Jeb DunnuckPlum and damson compote, star anise and soy on the nose. This is fresh and lithe, with marked acidity and a great explosion of flavour; bright as a meteor. Not as long as some vintages on the finish, but certainly makes an impression. The pH is at 3.6 naturally through concentration, and nearly 14% alcohol. Remarkably athletic in acid and tannin for a 2022. From lieu-dit Les Bessards. Drink 2030-2050.
96 points
Matt Walls - Decanter - Burgundy, FRANCE$480.00$480.00Bottle$5,760.00DozenABV: 14%Closure: Cork
Charles Van Canneyt is the current winemaker at the iconic Domaine Hudelot-Noellat in Vougeot, but he also produces wine under his own label. Using his extensive contacts with the finest growers in Burgundy, Charles sources grapes from some of the top plots in the area, and makes the wines at a separate facility in Beaune. Charles is aiming for a similar purity and terroir focus as those wines of Hudelot-Noellat, and as such has minimal use of new oak each year.
Les Lavrottes is a tiny Premier Cru vineyard just south of Bonnes Mares and is the continuation of the larger Les Noirots site. Chambolle-Musigny as a whole has lighter limestone soils than in the Morey-Saint-Denis appellation to the north, with a much lower proportion of clay. This light, pebbly soil covers the Les Lavrottes vineyard, with hard limestone subsoil beneath. Lighter soils such as this one are often associated with lighter wines. However, a little clay and iron in the soils here gives a little more weight than might usually be expected from Chambolle-Musigny.
- Burgundy, FRANCE$480.00$480.00Bottle$5,760.00DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: Cork
Charles Van Canneyt is the current winemaker at the iconic Domaine Hudelot-Noellat in Vougeot, but he also produces wine under his own label. Using his extensive contacts with the finest growers in Burgundy, Charles sources grapes from some of the top plots in the area, and makes the wines at a separate facility in Beaune. Charles is aiming for a similar purity and terroir focus as those wines of Hudelot-Noellat, and as such has minimal use of new oak each year.
Les Sentiers sits just south of Bonnes Mares on the border with Morey Saint Denis, and with its rich brown soils can display traits more closely aligned with its neighbour than is typical of other Chambolle sites.
- Burgundy, FRANCE$480.00$480.00Bottle$5,760.00DozenABV: 14%Closure: Cork
Charles Van Canneyt is the current winemaker at the iconic Domaine Hudelot-Noellat in Vougeot, but he also produces wine under his own label. Using his extensive contacts with the finest growers in Burgundy, Charles sources grapes from some of the top plots in the area, and makes the wines at a separate facility in Beaune. Charles is aiming for a similar purity and terroir focus as those wines of Hudelot-Noellat, and as such has minimal use of new oak each year.
Les Feusselottes is situated just below the village, surrounding the cemetery, and has perhaps the deepest and richest soils of the Chambolle Premier Cru sites. This shallow, stony soil has a high proportion of limestone, which has long been considered the cause of the mineral characters in the finished wines.
- Burgundy, FRANCE$370.00$370.00Bottle$4,440.00DozenABV: 13.5%Closure: Cork
Charles Van Canneyt is the current winemaker at the iconic Domaine Hudelot-Noellat in Vougeot, but he also produces wine under his own label. Using his extensive contacts with the finest growers in Burgundy, Charles sources grapes from some of the top plots in the area, and makes the wines at a separate facility in Beaune. Charles is aiming for a similar purity and terroir focus as those wines of Hudelot-Noellat, and as such has minimal use of new oak each year.
Located between the Premier Cru vineyards of Aux Combottes and Aux Beaux Bruns, roughly one third of this vineyard is classified as Premier Cru and has been owned by Domaine Leymarie-Ceci since 1976. That domaine does not bottle much itself, and this plot is more widely seen in negociant bottlings such as this from Charles Van Canneyt.
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- Biodynamic
2022 Chateau Malherbe Pointe du Diable RoseProvence, FRANCE$79.99$79.99Bottle$959.88DozenCellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2024-2025)ABV: 13.5%Closure: StelvinMade from biodynamically grown Grenache and Semillon grapes. Brilliant pale salmon tinged colour. Pronounced peach, raspberry and strawberry aromas jump out of the glass followed by hints of blood orange and wet stone. Delicious peach, raspberry and blood orange fruits are delivered with excellent intensity and possess a supple feel. Stony mineral back drop with a long voluminous finish.
Drink over the next year.
Alc. 13.5%- 94
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- Nicks Import
2025 Carillon d'Angelus Pre-Arrival OfferSaint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE$180.00$180.00Bottle$2,160.00DozenClosure: CorkOther Reviews...
Dominated by 90% Merlot, the 2025 Le Carillon d'Angélus derives from some 25 hectares of dedicated vineyards, emphasizing Merlot from the cool terroirs of Saint-Christophe-des-Bardes, complemented by holdings in the gravelly Figeac sector and on clay soils near Angélus itself. Exhibiting notes of cherries, red berries and orange zest, it's medium- to full-bodied, pure and precise, with a fleshy core of fruit, sweet tannins and lively acids that lend it a suave but serious profile.
90-92 points
William Kelley - Robert Parker's Wine AdvocateThe 2025 Le Carillon d'Angélus is raised in 50% new oak, 25% used barrel and 25% in stainless-steel vat. It has a well-defined and focused bouquet with blackberry, blueberry, light oyster shell/estuarine scents that lend another dimension (these were accentuated by the thinner Riedel glass that I requested). The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, well balanced, a tad more tension than the No. 3, with more depth on the finish. Gentle grip, quite linear in style, but there is satisfying persistency on the finish. Very fine. Drink 2030-2048.
91-93 points
Neal Martin - VinousThe 2025 Le Carillon d'Angélus is another gorgeous wine from the De Bouärd family. Dark-fleshed fruit, leather, incense and licorice convey somber intensity. This is far from an easygoing wine. Readers should plan on cellaring this for at least a few years, as it is quite potent in the early going. Gravel and lavender develop toward the long, beautifully resonant finish. Drink 2030-2040.
91-93 points
Antonio Galloni - VinousA solid core of cherry and berry fruit on a medium body with salty and flinty undertones. Very bright and vivid with a crunchy finish. Creamy and pretty already. Attractive center palate. 90% merlot and 10% cabernet franc.
94-95 points
James SucklingA beautiful, classy second wine from Angélus, the 2025 Le Carillon De Angélus is based on 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc. It reveals ripe cassis and juicy berry fruits on the nose, along with spring flowers, graphite, and well-integrated wood. On the palate, it's medium-bodied, pure, and clean, with nicely balanced structure and a great finish.
92-94 points
Jeb DunnuckDark cherry aromatics with creamy vanilla and floral fragrance. Such a gorgeous creamy, silky texture - this has concentration and intensity: weighty but not too much. Presence and poise, sophisticated but still with an element of freshness and lift. Serious, well built, muscular but finely so. Cool and extremely classic. 3.5pH. A yield of 35hl/ha. Drink 2029-2036.
94 points
Georgina Hindle - DecanterConditions of Pre Arrival Offer:
There is no minimum order unless stated.
All wines are 750ml unless indicated otherwise.
Payment is due at the time of ordering to secure stocks.
The wines are being collected and shipped in refrigerated containers and are due to arrive in late 2028.
Nicks Wine Merchants reserve the right to pass on any changes in Government duties and taxes and delivery charges from the date of order to the date of final delivery of the wine.
Errors and omissions excepted.
Delivery charges may apply - these can be determined by visiting the Freight Rates page.
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- Nicks Import
2016 Chateau AngelusSaint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE$999.00$999.00Bottle$11,988.00DozenClosure: CorkAs with a lot of properties in Saint-Emilion, Chateau Angelus has had its share of struggles in the mid-late 1900s, but after taking over from his father in 1988 Hubert de Bouard quickly turned around the property, to the point where it was upgraded to Premier Cru Classe A in 2012. The 27 hectare vineyard used for Chateau Angelus is planted to 50% Merlot, 47% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon. Maturation takes place in 100% new French oak for 18-24 months.
Other Reviews....
The 2016 Angélus is composed of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc, aged 18 to 22 months in new barrels and foudres. Deep garnet-purple colored, it drifts effortlessly out of the glass with sensuous notes of lavender, candied violets, garrigue, Ceylon tea and iron ore with a core of warm black cherries, mulberries, ripe plums and aniseed plus wafts of cedar chest and cloves. Medium to full-bodied, the perfumed fruit whispers of great intensity and depth, with the vivacious fruit well knit into the plush, seductive frame of velvety tannins and seamless freshness, finishing long and mineral laced. Still very tightly wound with amazing tension at this stage, it truly needs a good 6-8 more years in bottle to deliver the fully expressed layers that this soft-spoken, profound beauty promises.
98+ points
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Wine AdvocateThe 2016 Angélus has a very well defined bouquet featuring blackberry, melted tar, pencil box and floral notes, though they are less pronounced than they were from barrel. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins. This is well balanced with plenty of freshness and fine grip, and quite dense in the mouth compared to its peers. Notes of blackberry laced with sea salt and a touch of licorice govern the finish to this substantial Angélus, which will benefit from several years in bottle. Patience will be undoubtedly rewarded.
96 points
Neal Martin - VinousThe 2016 Angélus is a total stunner. Despite its late bottling in September 2018, the 2016 is simply magnificent. Soaring aromatics and layers of bright, vibrant fruit are two of the main signatures in the 2016. The tannins, so often hard in young Angélus, are almost impossibly refined. Pomegranate, blood orange, raspberry jam, wild flowers and mocha are some of the many notes that race through the 2016. All the elements fall into place in a memorable, exquisite Saint-Émilion that is clearly one of the wines of the year. Don't miss it!
98 points
Antonio Galloni - VinousSubtle and profound aromas of blackberries, wet earth and sweet tobacco. Hints of spice, too. Full-bodied and so deep. It’s incredibly vertical and long. Just like looking down a well. Firm and powerful tannins, yet polished and balanced. Goes on for minutes. One of the greatest ever. Try after 2025.
99 points
James Suckling
