Benanti
92 - Contrada Cavaliere Bianco 2017
This has a delicate nose evoking white stone fruit, Spanish broom and Mediterranean scrub. The polished, medium-bodied palate boasts tension and understated finesse, offering yellow apple, ripe pear and tangy saline alongside an oyster shell note. It's nicely balanced, with bright acidity.
92 - Contrada Cavaliere Rosso 2017
Wild berry, Mediterranean herb, scorched soil and a whiff of game meld together on this 100% Nerello Mascalese. On the tightly knit palate, close-grained, drying tannins wrap around dried black cherry, orange zest and licorice alongside a hint of smoky mineral. Drink 2022–2027. KERIN O’KEEFE
94 - Etna Rosso DOC 2014
Made with 85% Nerello Mascalese and 15% Nerello Cappuccio, this radiant red boasts a beautiful fragrance of blue and red flower, ripe berry, cake spice and aromatic herb. The radiant, delicious palate doles out layers of juicy black cherry, raspberry compote, cinnamon, white pepper and clove while a mineral note backs up the lingering finish. It's young but balanced, with bright acidity and tightly wound but refined tannins.
91- Etna Rosso DOC 2017
Smooth and bright, this boasts an earthy elegance, opening with aromas of wild berry, blue flower and Mediterranean herb that interlace with earthy whiffs of leather and game. The juicy, linear palate offers crushed red cherry, orange zest, star anise and white pepper alongside lithe tannins and lively acidity. It closes on a saline note. Drink through 2027. KERIN O’KEEFE
95 - Nerello Mascalese IGT 2009
Here’s a gorgeous, delicious wine that’s all about sheer elegance. It’s loaded with alluring blue flower, creamy wild cherry and black raspberry sensations accented by notes of carob, clove and white pepper. This is impeccably balanced, with fresh acidity, silky, smooth tannins and a long, lingering finish. It already boasts great depth and complexity, but will continue to evolve for years.
95 - Pietramarina Bianco Superiore DOC 2010
This stunning, full-bodied wine is in the running as one of the best white wines in Italy. It’s perfumed with acacia flower, Spanish broom, beeswax, flint and tree fruit. The delicious palate delivers green apple, Anjou pear and mineral sensations of mesmerizing depth. It will develop even more complexity over time. Drink through 2025. — K.O. (7/1/2014)
90 - Rosso di Verzella DOC 2012
This finessed and delicious blend of 80% Nerello Mascalese and 20% Nerello Cappuccio delivers creamy strawberry, Morello cherry, white pepper and clove sensations, with hints of Mediterranean herbs. The silky palate is balanced by bright acidity. — K.O. (9/1/2014)
92- Rovittello Etna Rosso DOC 2010
A blend of Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio, this wine opens with aromas of red berry, turned soil and baking spice. The structured, elegant palate offers nervous acidity and flavors of Morello cherry and ripe strawberry, accented by Mediterranean herbs and spice. Drink 2015–2025. — K.O. (9/1/2014)
93 - Serra Della Contessa DOC 2004
This is a benchmark wine from Mount Etna with an elegant bouquet and stratospheric aromatic intensity. The purity of fruit is remarkable and the wine delivers thick layers of forest berry, vanilla, root beer, volcanic ash and resin. The mouthfeel is firm and polished and the persistency is long lasting and very satisfying. Serra della Contessa is the name of a… — M.L. (2/1/2009)
94 - Serra Della Contessa DOC 2011
This gorgeous wine opens with fragrances of blue flower, moist earth, leather and ripe berry. The delicious palate delivers succulent black cherry, cinnamon, white pepper and balsamic herbs alongside smooth, silky tannins. It’s already delicious now, but hold for complexity. Drink now–
92 - Serra Della Contessa DOC 2012
Alluring aromas of ripe berry, violet, iris, baking spice and fennel take center stage on this stunning red. The structured palate delivers juicy red berry, black raspberry, clove and star anise alongside fresh acidity and close-grained tannins. A mineral note energizes the finish. 92
Borgo del Tiglio
94 - Collio Friulano DOC 2015
Elegance, complexity and structure come together in this drop-dead gorgeous winethat ranks among Italy's greatest whites. It opens with sublime yellow spring flower, aromatic herb and orchard fruit scents. The creamy, delicious palate seamlessly combines juicy white peach, ripe pear and citrus flavors while white almond and savory mineral notes grace the lingering finish.
95 - Collio Ronco della Chiesa DOC 2015
Elegance, complexity and structure come together in this drop-dead gorgeous winethat ranks among Italy's greatest whites. It opens with sublime yellow spring flower, aromatic herb and orchard fruit scents. The creamy, delicious palate seamlessly combines juicy white peach, ripe pear and citrus flavors while white almond and savory mineral notes grace the lingering finish.
93 - Collio Ronco della Chiesa DOC 2016
Made entirely with Friulano, this elegant, structured white opens with aromas suggesting toasted nut, acacia and mature orchard fruit. The polished, vibrant palate delivers ripe Golden Delicious apple, dried apricot, crushed herb and citrus zest set against a vein of energizing minerality. An almond note lingers on the finish. Drink through 2025.
93 - Collio Studio di Bianco DOC 2016
A blend of 40% Friulano, 40% Sauvignon and 20% Riesling, this structured white opens with aromas of toast, crushed stone, grilled herb and a whiff of yellow stone fruit. It's full bodied, delivering baked apple, dried apricot, citrus zest, vanilla and butterscotch flavors. A hint of toasted almond and a savory, almost salty mineral note linger on the finish. Drink now or hold for even more complexity.
Bosco Agostino
92 - La Serra Barolo DOCG 2015
This opens with aromas of rose petal, red berry, leather and underbrush. The savory, balanced palate offers raspberry compote, star anise and cinnamon alongside fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity. Drink 2022–2030.
91 - Neirane Barolo DOCG 2015
Aromas of red berry, baking spice and underbrush lead the nose. The juicy palate offers red cherry, licorice and white pepper alongside polished tannins and bright acidity. Drink 2021–2028.
Bovio
92 - Arborina Barolo DOCG 2016
Aromas of exotic spice, botanical herb, camphor and whiffs of French oak emerge from the glass. Reflecting the nose, the youthfully austere palate offers cranberry, sour cherry, coconut and menthol alongside tightly wound close-grained tannins. Give it time to fully develop. Drink 2026–2036.
91 - Barolo DOCG 2016
Red berry, blue flower and a whiff of menthol form the delicate nose. The linear, medium-bodied palate is already accessible, offering strawberry, cranberry and star anise alongside taut, polished tannins and fresh acidity. Drink through 2026.
93 - De-Rieumes Barolo DOCG Riserva 2013
Underbrush, dark-skinned berry and leather aromas lead the way along with a whiff of rose petal. The full-bodied palate offers mature cherry, licorice and pipe tobacco alongside firm, fine-grained tannins. Drink 2021–2030.
92 - Gattera Barolo DOCG 2016
Woodland-berry, iris and crushed mint aromas take center stage on this elegant, fragrant red. The vibrant, medium-bodied palate offers succulent black cherry, raspberry compote and star anise framed in polished tannins. Fresh acidity keeps it balanced. Drink 2023–2028.
93 - Parussi Barolo DOCG 2016
Aromas of underbrush, leather, camphor and scorched earth slowly take shape in the glass. Full bodied and firmly structured, the solid palate features dried black cherry, orange zest, licorice and clove set against a backbone of assertive, close-grained tannins. Give it time to fully develop. Drink after 2026.
92 - Rocchettevino Barolo DOCG 2016
Rose, red-berry, crushed mint and truffle aromas lead the nose. It's taut and linear, offering pomegranate, sour cherry and ground clove alongside tight close-grained tannins that give it a firm drying close. Drink after 2026.
Braida
92 -Ai Suma Barbera D'Asti DOCG 2016
This opens with mature black plum, cooking spice, toasted oak and underbrush aromas. The bold, full-bodied palate offers raspberry jam, cherry marinated in spirits, vanilla and tobacco alongside velvety tannins. Drink through 2025.
93 - Bigotta Barbera d'Asti DOCG 2015
Aromas of ripe black-skinned berry, clove and ground pepper mingle with fragrant blue flowers and a whiff of toast. Concentrated and savory, the full-bodied palate doles out blackberry jam, mature Marasca cherry and exotic spices. Velvety tannins lend finesse, while fresh acidity keeps it light on its feet.
92 - Bigotta Barbera d'Asti DOCG 2017
Aromas of ripe black-skinned berry, scorched earth and baking spice emerge from the glass. The full-bodied, concentrated palate offers Marasca cherry, ripe black plum, black pepper and star anise. Drink through 2025.
93 - Bricco dell'Uccellone Barbera D'Asti DOCG 2013
Bricco dell’Uccellone is an historic wine that shaped the modern history of Barbera d’Asti and Piedmont in general. Aged 15 months in oak casks, the wine is bountiful and harmonious with aromas of cherry, blackberry and spice. There’s a bright splash of crisp fruit on the close
94 - Bricco dell'Uccellone Barbera D'Asti DOCG 2014
One of Italy's most iconic wines, this structured red opens with heady aromas of red berry, menthol and dark spice. Those alluring qualities carry over to the full-bodied, inviting palate, along with raspberry compote and licorice notes. Firm yet velvety tannins and bright acidity provide balance and the structure to age. Drink 2019 - 2029.
95 - Bricco dell'Uccellone Barbera D'Asti DOCG 2015
Aromas of ripe black-skinned berry, clove and ground pepper mingle with fragrant blue flowers and a whiff of toast. Concentrated and savory, the full-bodied palate doles out blackberry jam, mature Marasca cherry and exotic spices. Velvety tannins lend finesse, while fresh acidity keeps it light on its feet.
93 - Bricco dell'Uccellone Barbera D'Asti DOCG 2015
Enticing aromas of mature black-skinned berry, violet, new leather and graphite emerge from the glass. The powerful, concentrated palate offers blackberry jam, ripe black cherry and black pepper alongside fine-grained, enveloping tannins. The rich fruit flavors counterbalance the warmth of alcohol. Enjoy through 2026.
91 - Montebruna Barbera D'Asti DOCG 2017
Aromas of violet, black cherry and underbrush lead the way. The big, savory palate offers blackberry jam, tobacco and licorice alongside tightly-knit, polished tannins. Drink through 2024.
Bruno Rocca
95 - Barbaresco DOCG 2015
Aromas of dark-skinned berry, eucalyptus, blue flower and dried mint shape the nose. Aged in both barriques and large casks, this combines structure and finesse, with the firm, full-bodied palate delivering mature Morello cherry, pomegranate, tobacco and licorice set against taut, fine-grained tannins. It closes on an orange zest note while fresh acidity keeps it balanced. Drink 2022–2029.
93 - Curra Barbaresco DOCG 2015
Iris, violet, wild berry and a whiff of espresso take shape in the glass. The taut, linear palate offers dried cherry, cranberry, star anise and ground clove, while polished tannins provide the backbone. Drink 2021–2029.
91 - Curra Barbaresco Riserva DOCG 2014
Truffle, espresso, hazelnut and blue flower aromas emerge from the glass along with whiffs of toasted oak. On the elegantly structured palate, fine-grained tannins support red cherry, blood orange, star anise and a hint of espresso. Bright acidity keeps it balanced. Drink through 2026.
96 - Rabaja Barbaresco DOCG 2016
Fragrant, structured and loaded with finesse, this delicious red opens with enticing aromas of iris, perfumed berry and baking spice. Smooth and concentrated, it has a weightless elegance and compelling tension, featuring succulent Marasca cherry, raspberry compote and licorice framed in taut, polished tannins and fresh acidity. It's well-balanced and already tempting, but hold for even more complexity. Drink 2024–2036.
Ca'Nova
91 - Ghemme DOCG 2007
This opens with aromas of ripe black-skinned fruits, resin, underbrush, leather, menthol and intense mint. The savory, refined palate delivers wild red cherry, crushed black raspberry, sage, clove, mint and mineral alongside velvety tannins. A licorice note signals the close. Drink through 2022.
91 - Ghemme DOCG 2008
Aromas of underbrush, tilled soil, tobacco, wild berry and a balsamic note take shape in the glass. The elegantly structured palate offers black cherry, cranberry, white pepper, clove and grilled herb that lead into a mineral-driven finish. It;s young but well balanced, with austere but fine-grained tannins and bright acidity. Drink 2016-2018.
90 - Ghemme DOCG 2009
The nose displays ripe dark fruit, crushed violet, a touch of exotic spice and a balsamic note. On the firmly structured palate, austere tannins support mature black cherry, dried tobacco and mouthfuls of licorice. A mineral note energizes the finish.
92 - Ghemme DOCG 2010
This taut structured red has aromas of woodland berry, baking spice, forest floor and crushed stone. The medium-bodied, focused palate delivers juicy red cherry, strawberry, white pepper and star anise alongside fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity. A mineral note of crushed oyster shell lingers on the close. Drink 2020–2030.
91 - Ghemme Riserva DOCG 2009
Baking-Spice, violet, wild berry and grilled herb aromas form the nose. The polished linear palate evokes dried cherry, blood orange, licorice and vanilla alongside dust tannins that leave a rather drying finish.
Capichera
90 - Assaje Carignano Isola dei Nuraghi IGT 2011
A blend of 90% Carignano and 10% Syrah, this offers aromas of steeped plum, scorched soil, peppercorn and eucalyptus. The bold, full-bodied palate delivers black cherry marinated in spirits, fig, ground pepper and licorice alongside tightly laced, fine-grained tannins.
93 - Capichera Classico Vermentino Isola dei Nuraghi IGT 2013
This stunning white opens with aromas that recall white wild flower, orchard fruit and heady scents of eucalyptus and dried herb. The rich palate delivers white peach, ripe pear, wild rosemary, thyme, flinty mineral and ginger. Fresh acidity frames the juicy fruit flavors while an almond note backs up the finish.
90 - Lianti Carignano Isola dei Nuraghi IGT 2013
Vibrant and spicy, this savory wine doles out aromas and flavors of ripe black cherry, fleshy blackberry, licorice and ground pepper. Fresh acidity and ripe, velvety tannins provide the framework.
92 - Mantenghja Carignano Isola dei Nuraghi IGT 2010
Aromas of forest floor, espresso, toast, blackberry and dried Mediterranean herb lead the nose on this full-bodied, forward blend of Carignano and 10% Syrah. The round, concentrated palate doles out ripe black cherry, red currant, spiced blueberry, coffee and ground black pepper alongside a firm backbone of velvety tannins.
94 - Santigaini Vermentino Isola dei Nuraghi IGT 2011
Scents of citrus blossom, honey, sea breeze and a potpourri of aromatic herb are some of the aromas in this stunning, single-vineyard Vermentino. Fresh and round, it’s loaded with finesse and complexity, seamlessly delivering layers of flavor that include citrus zest, ripe yellow apple, lemon-thyme, wild rosemary, mineral and toasted almond.
90 - Vigna'ngena Vermentio di Gallura DOCG 2014
Honeysuckle, jasmine and orchard fruit aromas take center stage on this fresh, elegant wine. The savory palate delivers white peach, ripe apple, rosemary and a mouthwatering saline note. Fresh acidity brightens the finish.
94 - VT Vendemmia Tardiva Vermentino IGT 2013
Made with late ripened Vermentino, this gorgeous wine opens with an alluring fragrance of citrus blossom, white wild flower, ripe orchard fruit and a hint of wild herb. The rich palate boasts depth and complexity, delivering layers of succulent nectarine, honey, yellow peach, flint and ginger. A white almond note closes the long, lingering finish.
Castelfeder
91 - Pinot Nero Burgum Novum Riserva 2016
Crushed tomato vine, tropical fruit and toasted nut aromas lead the nose. The linear palate is a bit more subdued, offering mature grapefruit, dried apricot, grilled herbs and tangy minerality before a hazelnut finish.
90 - Raif Sauvignon Vigneti delle Dolomiti IGT 2017
Intense varietal aromas of tropical fruit, tomato vine, aromatic herb and citrus jump out of the glass. Reflecting the nose, the expressive, mouthwatering palate doles out juicy grapefruit, honeydew melon and grilled sage alongside tangy acidity.
Castello Romitorio
90 - Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2015
Aromas of cedar, leather and dark-skinned fruit emerge from the glass. The polished palate offers dried black cherry, mocha and tobacco alongside fine-grained tannins. Drink 2022–2029.
Cerbaiona
95 - Brunello di Montalcino 2011
This delicious Brunello opens with classic Sangiovese aromas of dark-skinned berry, new leather, crushed herb and baking spice. Showing impressive freshness and elegance for what was a scorching vintage, the balanced palate delivers layers of juicy morello cherry, licorice and cinnamon while refined tannins provide polished support. Drink through 2026. 95
Ciavolich
90 - Antrum Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC 2012
Sourced from vineyards in Loreto Aprutino, this red offers bright blackberry and cherry aromas that are underscored by nuances of crushed granite and spice. The medium-bodied palate is driven by tart berries and pointed acidity, with fine, mouthcoating tannins providing a counterbalance
90 - Divus Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC 2015
There's nice lift to the nose, displaying bright cherry, peppercorn and delicate flowers. It is smooth on the entry to the palate, yet a tangy energy quickly takes over and crunchy berry fruits envelop accents of tobacco and savory spices. The use of older barrels has given this wine a delicate oak-tinged edge that melds nicely with the crisp berry fruit.
91 - Pecorino IGT 2017
Sourced from pergola-trained vines planted in 2000, nearly half of this Pecorino is fermented in stainless steel, with the remainder fermented in used barrels. Tones of ripe pineapple and melon seamlessly meld with fresh basil and sage on the nose and palate. It is rounded and supple in feel, expertly honed by integrated acidity and a light astringent finish.
Corte Sant'Alda
90 - Ca Fiui Valpolicella DOC 2018
Made with organically grown grapes, this has aromas of red berry, cassis and white pepper. The juicy, vibrant palate offers red cherry, raspberry jam and star anise alongside fresh acidity and smooth tannins. Enjoy though 2022.
90 - Campi Magri Valpolicella Ripasso Sup. DOC 2016
Made with organically grown grapes, this opens with aromas of black-skinned berry, graphite and baking spice. The juicy, balanced palate delivers black-currant jam, black pepper and licorice set against fine-grained tannins. Enjoy through 2025.
94 - Mithas Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 2012
Made with organically farmed dried grapes, this boasts inviting aromas of ripe dark skinned berry, tilled soil, new leather and baking spice. Concentrated yet elegant, the palate delivers ripe black plum, blackberry jam, clove and black pepper alongside fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity. A licorice note wraps up the long finish. Drink 2020-2030
93 - Valmezzane Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 2012
Made with organically farmed grapes, this opens with aromas of violet, dark- skinned berry and new leather. The concentrated, balanced palate delivers blackberry jam, baked plum, licorice and ground black pepper. Solid but velvety tannins provide the backbone. 93
Fattoria La Rivolta
90 - Coda di Volpe DOC 2019
Aromas of spring blossom, white stone fruit and a whiff of exotic fruit shape the nose on this medium-bodied white. On the savory, linear palate, tangy acidity lifts green apple, pear and Mediterranean herb before a lemon drop close.
92 - Falanghina DOC 2015
Made with organically cultivated grapes, this opens with aromas of orange blossom, orchard fruit and nuts. The savory, medium-bodied palate doles out layers of juicy nectarine, lime zest, ripe pear and mature yellow apple alongside a note of candied ginger. It finishes on a tangy note.
91 - Falanghina DOC 2016
Honeysuckle, orange blossom, pear, wild herb and apple aromas follow over to the palate along with tangy nectarine and beeswax. It's refreshingly crisp in bright acidity, with a savory mineral note that lingers on the close.
90 - Falanghina DOC 2018
Heady aromas suggesting ripe apple, honeysuckle and tropical fruit almost jump out of the glass. Reflecting the nose, the bright, medium-bodied palate offers ripe pear, honeydew and tangerine drop candy.
91 - Fiano DOC 2018
Spanish broom, acacia, honey and white stone-fruit aromas waft out of the glass. Made with organically grown grapes, the savory palate doles out mature yellow pear, apricot and citrus alongside tangy acidity. It closes on a hazelnut note.
92 - Fiano DOC 2019
Yellow spring flower, yellow pear, botanical herb and a yeasty whiff of pastry dough come together on this savory white. Refreshing and loaded with finesse, the delicious, linear palate delivers Meyer lemon, golden apple and hazelnut alongside fresh acidity.
90 - Greco DOC 2018
This opens with aromas of exotic fruit and fragrant spring flowers. On the medium-bodied palate, crisp acidity accompanies Reinette apple, white peach, Meyer lemon and a hint of minerality before a tangy close.
93 - Greco DOC 2019
Made with organically grown grapes, this has a deep golden hue and enticing aromas of exotic fruit, spring blossom and wild herb. On the delicious palate, crisp acidity accompanies ripe apricot, yellow apple and peach alongside vibrant acidity.
90 - Piedirosso Taburno DOP 2019
Tropical fruit, hawthorn, sage and Mediterranean brush aromas waft out of the glass. The crisp savory palate features banana, yellow pear and citrus alongside vibrant acidity. It closes on a hint of white almond.
Gracciano della Seta
94 - Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2013
92 - Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2015
This wine's pressed violet, dark-skinned berry and star anise aromas waft out of the glass. Mirroring the nose, the elegant, juicy palate doles out ripe black cherry, black plum and licorice notes set against fine-grained tannins. Drink 2020–2027
92 - Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2016
This fragrant red offers enticing scents of forest berry, iris, violet and a balsamic whiff of eucalyptus. Linear and elegant, the taut palate features raspberry, pomegranate, star anise and a white-pepper note alongside fine-grained tannins. It's vibrant and balanced, with an orange zest finish. Drink 2021–2028.
92 - Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Riserva 2013
Truffle, new leather, menthol, star anise and red berry are just some of the aromas you'll find on this perfumed red. Made with 95% Sangiovese and 5% Canaiolo, the medium-bodied palate offers juicy Marasca cherry, raspberry compote and licorice set against fine-grained tannins. Drink through 2025
Le Marchesine
93 - FC Secolo Novo Riserva DOCG 2009
Enticing scents of yellow stone fruit, acacia and brioche show this wine's Chardonnay pedigree. A refined beading and tangy acidity lend elegance and balance to flavors of creamy yellow pear, apple and lemon. A hint of fennel graces the finish.
90 - Franciacorta Brut DOCG NV
Crisp and refreshing, this opens with enticing scents of white spring blossom, white stone fruit and a whiff of dried aromatic herb. The bright palate delivers creamy golden apple and juicy nectarine alongside tangy acidity and a lively mousse. A ginger note backs up the finish.
Editor Choice
Musso
94 - Barbaresco Pora DOCG 2014
This wine's grilled herb, dill, tobacco and violet aroma unfold in the glass.
The palate has nice length and balance, offering juicy red cherry, raspberry, smoke, star anise and game notes, with firm, noble tannins and fresh acidity.
90 - Barbaresco Pora DOCG 2015
Exotic Spic, coconut, dark-skinned berry and camphor aromas come together in the glass. It's still young and primary, offering black cherry, plum, vanilla, and licorice alongside tight-knit fine-grained tannins. Drink after 2015
97 - Barbaresco Pora DOCG 2016
This has a lovely, alluring nose that evokes rose, iris, woodland berry, new leather, and Cake spice along with a whiff of Camphor. It's focused and delicious with juicy Marasca cherry, star anise, clove, and mocha flavors framed in taunt, fine-grained tannins and bright acidity. Drink 2026 -2036
93 - Barbaresco Pora DOCG 2017
This full-boded red offers aromas evoking blue flower, baked plum and pipe tobacco. The firm but polished palate shows concentration and structure, featuring dried cherry, steeped prune and licorice set against fine-grained tannins. Drink 2022–2027.
93 - Barbaresco Rio Sordo DOCG 2015
This opens with a potpourri of red berry, rose, menthol and exotic spice aromas. Juicy and elegantly structured, the smooth palate doles out juicy Marasca cherry, ripe strawberry, white pepper and star anise. Taut but polished tannins provide the framework. Drink 2021–2030.
95 - Barbaresco Rio Sordo DOCG 2016
Underbrush, leather, floral and tobacco aromas are front and center on this radiant red, as well as a hint of menthol. The enveloping palate offers ripe plum, vanilla, mocha and baking spice alongside velvety, fine- grained tannins.
94 - Barbaresco Rio Sordo DOCG 2017
Underbrush, new leather, violet and mature forest berry aromas lift out of the glass with a whiff of menthol. On the full-bodied palate, tightly knit, close-grained tannins support dried cherry, spiced cranberry and star anise alongside surprisingly fresh acidity for the hot vintage. A hint of espresso signals the close. Drink 2022–2029.
Ottella
91 - Le Creete Lugana DOC 2016
This elegant wine opens with enticing white spring flower, freshly picked orchard fruit and herb aromas. The vibrant palate offers juicy white peach, nectarine and yellow apple flavors, framed by crisp acidity. An almond note graces the dry, refreshing finish.
92 - Le Creete Lugana DOC 2018
Editor's Choice. Fragrant aromas of white flower, tropical fruit and citrus mingle together with crushed wild herb on the nose. The vibrant, focused palate shows an understated elegance, offering flavors of grapefruit, pineapple and saline set against bright acidity.
91 - Lugana DOC 2017
Tangy and delicious, this bright wine offers aromas suggesting white spring flower and ripe orchard fruit. The savory, linear palate doles out crisp green apple, honeydew melon and juicy grapefruit alongside fresh acidity.
91 - Lugana DOC 2018
Tropical fruit, white spring flower and a hint of crushed tomato-vine lead the nose. The juicy palate doles out honeydew melon, grapefruit and papaya alongside crisp acidity. A saline note caps off the finish.
92 - Molceo Lugana Riserva DOC 2016
Intensely fragrant, this wine boasts aromas of citrus, perfumed white flower and yellow stone fruit. The elegantly structured, precise palate delivers juicy grapefruit, ripe apricot and energizing minerals while bright acidity lends balance. A bitter almond note graces the finish. Drink through 2024.
92 - Molceo Lugana Superiore DOC 2013
Herbaceous aromas of hay and tomato leaf meld together with notes of stone fruit, citrus and flint. The round, medium-bodied palate offers white grapefruit, candied nectarine zest, white peach, aromatic herb and mineral. Fresh acidity brightens the rich flavors. 92
Paltrinieri
94 - Leclisse Lambrusco di Sorbara DOC 2016
94 - Leclisse Lambrusco di Sorbara DOC 2017
Made by the firm that helped put quality Lambrusco on the map, this delicious, stunning wine opens with enticing scents of wild berry, rose petal and citrus. The aromas carry over to the elegant, foaming palate along with juicy strawberry, creamy nectarine, grapefruit and a sprinkling of white pepper. A silky mousse gives it an irresistible texture, while fresh acidity keeps it balanced.
95 - Leclisse Lambrusco di Sorbara DOC 2018
Crisp and delicious, this vibrant wine has aromas of strawberry, orange zest and violet. On the savory palate, tangy acidity accompanies crushed red cherry, pomegranate, white pepper and star anise set against a polished mousse. A hint of bread crust lingers on the close.
93 - Radice Corona Lambrusco di Modena DOC 2016
This vibrant, slightly sparkling wine is one of the best Lambrucos out there. Made entirely from the Sorbara variety, it opens with enticing citrus, woodland berry and wildflower scents. Its crisp, delicious palate doles out strawberry and pink grapefruit notes alongside baking spice accents and racy acidity. The lees that have settled at the bottom of the bottle gives the last glass even more flavor.
93 - Radice Corona Lambrusco di Modena DOC 2017
One of the wines that put Lambrusco back on the map, this vibrant, linear wine boasts aromas of wild strawberry, violet, red cherry and grapefruit. The aromas carry through to the slightly sparkling, savory palate along with cinnamon and white pepper notes. Crisp acidity lifts the savory finish.
95 - Radice Corona Lambrusco di Modena DOC 2018
#18 - Top 100 Wine List One of the best Lambruscos out there, this delicious vibrant wine opens with enticing scents of wild red berry, yellow stone fruit, citrus blossom and a yeasty comforting whiff of pastry dough. Made by carrying out the secondary fermentation in the bottle, the dry delicious palate delivers pink grapefruit, crushed strawberry and tangerine alongside crisp acidity and a saline note.
95 - Radice Corona Lambrusco di Modena DOC 2019
Made by carrying out the second fermentation in the bottle, this radiant, lightly sparkling wine opens with heady aromas of citrus, violet and a yeasty whiff of bread dough. Bone-dry and delicious, the energized palate delivers tart sour cherry, juicy pomegranate, pink grapefruit and white pepper alongside crisp acidity and a savory hint of saline. One bottle probably won't be enough.
Paolo Cali
90 - Osa! Frappato Rosato IGT 2016
Fragrant and fresh, this savory rosato has alluring scents of wild rose and ripe red berry. The crisp juicy palate doles out crushed raspberry, strawberry, Mediterranean herb and a hint of citrus zest. Bright acidity gives it a tangy, mouthwatering finish.
Podere Sapaio
94 - Sapaio 2007
This is a lovely, rich wine with mature red berry tones followed by sharp mineral definition and bright aromas of fresh Indian spice. The wine is dense and decadent and could stand up to beef tenderloin with balsamic reduction
94 - Sapaio 2008
This inky wine opens with black concentration and rich aromas of mature cherry, almond paste, spice, blackberry and plum. Integrated wood tones of leather and toasted coffee complete the picture and help render soft but structured tannins. Drink after 2015.
94 - Sapaio 2009
A concentrated blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, this opens with dark spice and chocolate notes, followed by luscious blackberry, prune and plum tones. Smooth and extracted, this offers velvety tannins and generous fruit flavors. It is packed with all kinds of opulent pleasure
91 - Sapaio 2010
Dense and savory, this blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Petit Verdot and 10% Cabernet Franc opens with aromas of blue flower, mature plum, subtle oak and vanilla. The concentrated palate features ripe black cherry, red currant, bell pepper, black pepper and mocha alongside toasted oak and assertive, drying tannins.
92 - Volpolo 2009
Here’s a knockout blend from coastal Tuscany (with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot) that opens with inky, dark concentration and lavish aromas of chocolate, black cherry, rum cake and Indian spice. It’s soft, plush and extra rich
90 - Volpolo 2010
A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot, this delivers soft, concentrated flavors of chocolate fudge, cherry and cinnamon spice. It’s an irresistible, opulent wine that promises to impress.