VOLUME 29, No. 5 {2015} PERFETTO. The flawless skill of Italian winemakers

Transcription

1 VOLUME 29, No. 5 {2015} PERFETTO The flawless skill of Italian winemakers

2 VALLE D AOSTA LOMBARDIA PIEMONTE LIGURIA TRENTINO-ALTO ADIGE FRIULI-VENEZIA GIULIA EMILIA-ROMAGNA VENETO MARCHE UMBRIA LAZIO ABRUZZO MOLISE CAMPANIA PUGLIA BASILICATA SARDEGNA CALABRIA SICILIA Signature Team Éric Bertoldi Simon Gaudreault-Rouleau Julie Perreault Luc Rolland Justin Rouette Alain Smith Legend RATINGS AGING POTENTIAL RED WINE WHITE WINE SPARKLING WINE ST Signature Team out of 100 WA Wine Advocate (Robert Parker) out of 100 V Vinous (A. Galloni, S. Tanzer) out of 100 WS Wine Spectator out of 100 GR Gambero Rosso Tre Bicchieri* JR Jancis Robinson out of 20 JS James Suckling out of 100 WFW The World of Fine Wine out of 20 * Excellent wines in their respective categories. The aging potential of a wine is its potential lifespan in good cellaring conditions. Note that it s a simple suggestion tool; the year mentioned indicates the vintage s peak. Of course, certain wines may be to your liking long before the year mentioned. 000 QUANTITY OF BOTTLES AVAILABLE O U R F AV O U RIT E THE SIGNATURE TEAM S CURRENT FAVOURITES SAQ CODE DRINK NOW DRINK NOW OR KEEP UNTIL YEAR INDICATED DRINK DURING THE INDICATED PERIOD OF MATURITY

3 THE FLAWLESS SKILL OF ITALIAN WINEMAKERS Italian wines prestigious and illustrious rank among the best known and most appreciated in the world. They re recognized everywhere for their history and character. This culturally rich and fiery country, renowned for its majestic sceneries and its warm and welcoming communities, offers a selection of Grands Crus that will never cease to impress going so far as to inspire pure perfection. Italy s diversity shines around the world through its 20 highly distinct regions and unique native grape varieties. It s thanks to this precious and judicious blend of tradition and modernity that Italian wines stand out from the rest. This Courrier vinicole pays homage to the vineyards of Piedmont, Tuscany, Veneto and many other discrete yet equally rich regions and presents the relentless work and impeccable skills of producers like Köfererhof, Ar.Pe.Pe., Le Macchiole, Valentini, Emidio Pepe, Palari and Marco de Bartoli. The members of the Signature Team present you the best of Italy s wine, from Barolo to Barbaresco, Amarone to Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino to Bolgheri a hand-picked selection of white and sparkling wines as well as rare and exclusive reds that are the source of Italy s impressive reputation. ORDER FROM Friday, November 6, at noon. commande.saq.com Find out how to order as well as consult the complete collection on pages 47 and 48. PERFETTO 1 ITALIA

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6 TABLE OF CONTENTS Trentino-Alto Adige Köfererhof... 5 Tramin... 6 Lombardia Bellavista... 7 Ca del Bosco... 7 Ar.Pe.Pe Piemonte Elio Altare... 9 Antoniolo... 9 Cascina La Barbatella Domenico Clerico Aldo Conterno Gaja Bruno Giacosa Giuseppe Mascarello e Figlio Pelissero Luciano Sandrone Paolo Scavino Sottimano La Spinetta Vietti Veneto Zýmē Gini Brigaldara Romano Dal Forno Trabucchi d Illasi Masi Giuseppe Quintarelli Vignalta Toscana Argiano Barone Ricasoli Ca Marcanda Camigliano Castellare di Castellina Castelli del Grevepesa Castello di Bossi Castello Fonterutoli Ciacci Piccolomini d Aragona Col d Orcia Duemani Fattoria di Magliano Fèlsina...28 Fontodi Guado al Tasso Il Molino di Grace Siro Pacenti Piaggia Il Poggione Luce della Vite Le Macchiole Montevertine Poliziano Tolaini Valdicava Viticcio Abruzzo Masciarelli Valentini Emidio Pepe Torre dei Beati...38 Umbria Lamborghini...38 Lazio Falesco...38 Campania Alois Colli di Lapio...40 Galardi...41 Montevetrano...41 Puglia Polvanera...42 Sicilia COS...43 Passopisciaro...43 Occhipinti...44 Palari...44 Tenuta delle Terre Nere...45 Marco de Bartoli...45 Sardegna Argiolas...45

7 TRENTINO-ALTO ADIGE ALTO ADIGE VALLE ISARCO Köfererhof Located in the Alto Adige region near Austria, these Isarco Valley wineries are the northernmost vineyards in Italy. The Köfererhof estate s five hectares flank the foothills of the Dolemite Mountains, growing at an altitude of 700 metres. Since 1995, Günther Kershbaumer, one of the best white winemakers in Italy, has been making the most of the thermal amplitude between day and night to produce finely honed wines with excellent aromatic character. The estate grows many varieties, including Kerner, Riesling, Sylvaner, Müller-Thurgau, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Grigio and Veltliner, producing wines that are as exciting as they are unparalleled. 01 PINOT GRIGIO 2013 The Pinot Grigio offers aromas mostly centred on yellow fruits and smoky notes, while in the mouth its characteristic fattiness is well governed by its complex flavours and fresh acidity. Italian Wines 2015, Gambero Rosso ml $29 GR PERFETTO 5 ITALIA

8 TRENTINO-ALTO ADIGE ALTO ADIGE VALLE ISARCO Köfererhof TRENTINO-ALTO ADIGE ALTO ADIGE Tramin Founded in 1898, Cantina Tramin is one of the oldest cooperatives in Alto Adige. The cooperative s various vineyards are located between 250 and 900 metres of altitude. Cantina Tramin is renowned for its Pinot Grigios and Sauvignons, but is best known for its Nussbaumer cuvée made from Gewürztraminer. The Gewürztraminer is heavily influenced by the region s climate, especially the variation in temperatures between day and night, allowing the fruit to reach full maturity, with the cool mountain air imparting aromatic finesse. The man behind this success is Wilhelm (Willi) Stürz, Cantina Tramin s technical director since 1995 and Gambero Rosso s Winemaker of the Year in RIESLING 2013 This superb Riesling is a showcase for Günther Kerschbaumer s mastery of winemaking! This is a wine with an exquisite aroma, where flowers, honey, preserved lemon, lime and pear intermingle over a mineral background. Its salinity is reminiscent of great Galician whites (Rías Baixas) as well as the excellent Austrian Riesling cuvées Kamptal and Kremstal. Its purity, concentration, exemplary balance, texture and long finish have thoroughly seduced us. Quite possibly the best Italian Riesling we have tasted to date. We are in love! 03 NUSSBAUMER GEWÜRZTRAMINER 2013 A wine with a charming aromatic quality and plenty of olfactory originality, including olive oil, peach yogurt, preserved lemons, rose and ginger. In the mouth, it is round with a saline finish and hints of rose, soft breadcrumb, petroleum jelly and ripe peach. An unparalleled wine that opens minds about what a Gewürztraminer has to offer. The kind of wine that surprises at the table with many pairing possibilities. O U R F AV O U RIT E ml $39 ST ml $35 ST 91 V 92 GR PERFETTO 6 ITALIA

9 LOMBARDIA FRANCIACORTA Bellavista According to Guénaël Revel, Quebec s specialist on sparkling wines, the Bellavista estate is the viticultural pearl of the Groupe Terra Moretti if not the entire appellation. Founded in 1977, the estate covers 190 hectares of vines with 107 distinct parcels. Each of these parcels is vinified separately and then subsequently blended to make the estate s cuvées. This one is overseen with great meticulousness by Mattia Vezzola, the estate oenologist and the soul behind their consistently excellent products. Bellavista rubs shoulders with some of the world s greatest sparkling wines and it has nothing to fear from champagne. Bellavista proudly holds its head high among the best of Italian sparkling wines. LOMBARDIA FRANCIACORTA Ca del Bosco The Ca del Bosco story began in the 1960s when Annamaria Clementi Zanella settled in Erbusco and planted vines. Her son, Maurizio Zanella, has been enamoured with winemaking from the age of 14. Following a visit to producers in Champagne, Mr. Zanella returned to Lombardy and moulded the estate that has become one of the most celebrated in the region in terms of sheer skill and knowledge. Pushing the envelope of traditional winemaking, he now focuses on the metodo Ca del Bosco. This rigorous winemaking technique covers all aspects of production, from the vine to disgorging the product. Most importantly, it includes a cleaning and drying of the grapes as well as pressing of the fruit in an oxygen-free environment to avoid all traces of oxidation. 04 PAS OPERÉ EXTRA BRUT 2009 According to the Bellavista estate this wine is the incarnation of tradition. It is produced following a strict selection of the very best Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grown at the estate (making up 65% and 35% of the blend respectively). Half of the blended wine was fermented in oak barrels and then conditioned on lees for six years before being disgorged (sboccatura) in It has a sophisticated nose with intermingling apple, citrus, honey, acacia, fresh mushroom and almond notes with a solid mineral and toasted background. The mouthfeel is full and the effervescence is vaporous despite not being dosed (hence its name). This Franciacorta is rich and sufficiently vinous with a remarkable freshness. 05 VINTAGE COLLECTION SATÈN Femininity. Smooth, luxurious, ripe, soft, rounded. Evokes the enchanting sensuality of the woman of one s heart. One of those wines that thrill the senses. Satèn, with the femininity and elegance of silk, is a special interpretation of a Franciacorta: a felicitous marriage of white grapes only. And a little secret: During tirage, when sugars and yeasts are added to initiate second fermentation in the bottle, Satèn is given less sugar. Finally, lengthy refinement enhances gentle elegance in every single bottle. Delicious as an aperitif and excellent as a conversation wine. Maturation sur lies for an average of 48 months. Chardonnay 85%, Pinot Bianco 15% ml $64 ST ml $65 WS 90 (2009 VINTAGE) PERFETTO 7 ITALIA

10 LOMBARDIA VALTELLINA SUPERIORE Ar.Pe.Pe. A seemingly strange name for an estate, it is in fact an acronym for Arturo Pelizzatti Perego, its founder. In 1984, Mr. Pelizzatti Perego decided to launch his own venture in the Valtellina region of western Lombardy, in a valley that runs east to west, not far from the Swiss border. His three children, Isabella, Emanuele and Guido, are fifthgeneration winemakers and are currently in charge at the estate. They prefer to make wines with long maturation conducted exclusively in oak barrels to extract the best from their Chiavennasca vines the local name for Nebbiolo. Their vines are grown on a perfectly exposed terrace, giving the wine a subtle, vibrant and purely traditional character that we adore. 06 SASSELLA STELLA RETICA RISERVA The Sassella terroir, with its sloping rocky terraces, reveals its true potential as the perfect location for the masterful expression of Nebbiolo with this cuvée. When given a long and gentle maturation, the wine retains all its inviting Nebbiolo fruit character with a velvety and gently softened tannic character. This wine has truly lovely aromas of kirsch, licorice and nougat. On the palate, the attack is juicy, refreshing and similar to its aromatic profile, but with the addition of strawberries, tea, undergrowth and a delicate hint of truffle. O U R F AV O U RIT E ml $46 ST 92 GR

11 PIEMONTE BAROLO Elio Altare In 1948, Giuseppe Altare took possession of a 5-hectare farm in La Morra. Following a trip to Burgundy in 1976, his grandson Elio had a revelation: They needed to entirely rework the family winery from vineyard to bottle to improve upon the quality of their wine. Giovanni, his father, never understood his son s stubbornness and dedication to throwing out deeply rooted traditions, but Elio believed strongly in shorter maceration times, using barrels rather than foudres and a more respectful treatment of the 10-hectare vineyard. With over 45 years of experience now under his belt, Elio has passed the torch to his daughter Silvia, who is now making some of Piedmont s best and most modern Barolos. 07 BAROLO The Barolo sees fruit sourced from La Morra, Castiglione Falletto and Serralunga d Alba and shows great fruit intensity with ripe tones of dark fruit (it is aged in neutral oak). Even the wine s appearance is slightly darker and more concentrated than neighboring wines. The Serralunga d Alba quality of ripe fruit and power really comes through, especially in the more nuanced and elegant vintage. The bouquet opens to reveal more spice and tobacco with time. The wine s fullness and generosity work very nicely in this expression. PIEMONTE GATTINARA Antoniolo The Antoniolo estate is without a doubt the engine that drives Gattinara. The area is located in the north of Piedmont and is shamefully less wellknown than its southern neighbours of Barolo and Barbaresco. Founded in 1948 by Mario Antoniolo, this property located in the Vercelli province has now reached 14 hectares in size. Their production focuses on the Nebbiolo variety known to locals as Spanna. Mr. Antoniolo s daughter Rosanna is a veritable legend in the region and has been taking care of the estate with aplomb since the passing of her husband in the 1970s. Charismatic and determined, she is one of the leading people responsible for the international reputation of Gattinara wines, which she continues to promote with the help of her children Lorella and Alberto. This hard work has paid dividends as the cuvées they produce are always excellent regardless of the year. True Piedmont classics! 08 GATTINARA The Antoniolo estate s basic cuvée is proof that excellent wines can be made from Nebbiolo by producers other than those in the Barolo and Barbaresco appellations. Though the nose is restrained for now, it still exudes subtle accents of leather, turf, licorice and black fruit. The mouth, however, is a different story, with a voluminous and lusty attack with plenty of ripe red fruit, dried flowers and anise. The finish is balanced with plenty of length. Already enjoyable, it will surely get even more complex as it ages. PIEMONTE GATTINARA 09 OSSO SAN GRATO The Gattinara Osso San Grato is quite possibly the single greatest wine I have ever tasted from Antoniolo. A wine of exquisite beauty, the has all the qualities that make Nebbiolo such a temptress; seductive aromatics, finely sculpted fruit and a finish that lasts forever. The isn t huge, but rather it is a wine that captivates all the senses with its extraordinary beauty. Silky, perfumed and exquisite from the very first taste, this translucent, pure Gattinara will thrill readers for several decades. Hints of sage, rosemary, menthol and new leather add the final shades of nuance. Quite simply, the Osso San Grato is a reference-point wine for Nebbiolo, Gattinara, Piedmont and Italy. O U R F AV O U RIT E ml $86 WA ml $47 ST ml $85 V 97 GR PERFETTO 9 ITALIA

12 PIEMONTE BARBERA D ASTI SUPERIORE NIZZA Cascina La Barbatella Located in the Nizza Monferrato Hills of southern Asti, La Barbatella forged its reputation thanks to the hard work and dedication of Angelo Sonvico, who founded the estate and directed it for 30 years before selling to the Perego family in. The new owners have continued to pursue the passion and dedication that Mr. Sonvico paid to his estate. The vineyards are nestled in a natural amphitheatre, growing mostly Barbera as well as other varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Nero, Cortese and Sauvignon. The estate is both modern and stylish, producing one of the most interesting interpretations of the Barbera variety in the region, and the proof of their hard work is the La Vigna dell Angelo cuvée. PIEMONTE LANGHE Domenico Clerico Domenico Clerico s estate is located in Monforte d Alba, to the south of Piedmont s Barolo appellation. Mr. Clerico took the reins of the estate in 1976 and began producing its first wines. He acquired some of the very best vines that Piedmont had to offer, including Bussia and Ginestra. These days, his passion has led him to produce internationally recognized wines from 21 hectares of vines. Mr. Clerico works hard to produce only the most exceptional fruit on his beloved terroir. He plays with the Barolo tradition by barrel-aging his wines, allowing the Nebbiolo to express itself in its own unique way. PIEMONTE BAROLO 10 LA VIGNA DELL ANGELO 2011 Barbera d Asti Superiore Nizza La Vigna dell Angelo 2011 is back on Tre Bicchieri form. It is an elegant wine with a nose of ripe red berry fruit, tobacco, dried herbs and licorice, accompanied by a juicy, velvety soft palate that makes no concessions to sweetness but instead offers impressive, fresh acidity on an exceptionally pleasant finish. Italian Wines 2015, Gambero Rosso 11 ARTE 2012 The 2012 Arte is a charming blend of 90% Nebbiolo and 10% Barbera. This is a terrific wine that boasts impeccable density and intensity. It strikes that illusive balance between elegance and power, without giving in too strong [sic] to the latter. Dark fruit and spice come together in seamless fashion. Tightly firm tannins give lift and backbone to the mouthfeel. 12 & 13 CIABOT MENTIN This Piedmont star s Barolo cuvée is made by selecting the very best Nebbiolo from the Ginestra cru. Following a long fermentation (20 to 30 days of maceration) the wine is matured for 24 to 30 months in 80% new French oak barrels. This is a rich and opulent wine of noble substance supported by notes of fruit, flowers and spice as well as a woody, almost cedar-like note. An exceptional Barolo with a modern build that will age splendidly for several years ml $55 GR ml $49 WA ml $99 ST V L $205 ST V PERFETTO 10 ITALIA

13 PIEMONTE LANGHE Aldo Conterno Looking to found his own winemaking estate in the 1950s, Aldo Conterno spent five years with his uncle in California before returning to his native Piedmont to make wine. Enamoured with the idea of his new venture but also wanting to do something different than his brother Giovanni, who worked at the mythical Giacomo Conterno family estate, he purchased the Favot farm in The jewel of his 25-hectare property is the renowned Bussia parcels. These vineyards, located in the community of Monforte d Alba, are the source of four remarkable Barolos. These wines are like no others. They are the intersection of tradition and modernity. Following his unfortunate passing in 2012 at the age of 81 years, Mr. Conterno left his three sons, Franco, Stefano and Giacomo, to continue his work. Salute. 14 LANGHE 2012 We were convinced that we were tasting a Nebbiolo complemented with some Barbera, but this was something else. It was a blend of old-vine Fresia paired with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. The aromas were truly remarkable with a noble floral character and plenty of licorice, cassis syrup and tobacco matched by a spicy woodiness. Flavourful, long and fresh, this wine has stunning depth for a wine of this rank. This one is a must-have! PIEMONTE BARBERA D ALBA 15 CONCA TRE PILE 2012 The Conca Tre Pile vineyard, located in the Bussia Soprana region, boasts Barbera vines that are up to 45 years old. This particular cuvée has been pampered and judiciously matured for 12 months in 100% new oak barrels. The maturation notes with their distinct smoky, tobacco and mocha character do not overpower the fruit, which shines brilliantly after even the briefest aeration. The palate is fresh, generous and persistent, with melting tannins, finishing on accents of violet, mocha and ripe black fruit. Already a treat, it can gladly be cellared a bit longer if you can resist the temptation to open it now! PIEMONTE BARBARESCO Gaja Founded in 1859 by Giovanni Gaja, this mythical estate is one of Piedmont s (and perhaps even Italy s) greatest wine ambassadors. Fourth-generation winemaker Angelo Gaja is a charismatic and captivating person who launched his career in wine in Today, he is supported in his work by his three children, including his daughter Gaia, who is very involved in the estate s commercial affairs. Mr. Gaja s innovative thinking in both the vineyard and the cellars has greatly contributed to the reputation of the estate. Low production, barrels from Bordeaux, controlled fermentation in stainlesssteel tanks as well as many other innovations have shifted from being heresy to respected technique in the region. His greatest success so far is his ability to naturally tame the tannic structure of the local Nebbiolo to produce wines with enormous depth, elegance and balance, thanks in part to the help of Guido Rivella, his right-hand man for over 30 years. 16 BARBARESCO 2011 Crushed flowers, tobacco, sweet spices and red berries lift from the glass in the 2011 Barbaresco. Soft, silky and accessible, the Barbaresco is already wonderfully open and expressive, as so many wines are in this vintage. Kirsch, hard candy and floral notes add nuance over time. The style is mid-weight and gracious, with gorgeous aromatic complexity and plenty of brightness, especially within the context of the year. O U R F AV O U RIT E ml $35 ST ml $43 ST ml $225 V PERFETTO 11 ITALIA

14 PIEMONTE LANGHE Gaja PIEMONTE LANGHE PIEMONTE LANGHE 17 CONTEISA The Conteisa is a stunner with all the overwhelming elegance that is inherent to this vintage. It opens steadily to reveal red flower, cassis, baking spice, anisette and tobacco. The aromas are expressive and deep with enduring richness. The tannins are slightly sweet and already soft. This is a collectors choice. 18 SPERSS Fragrant, with incense and sandalwood notes framing the core of cherry, accented by hints of leather, tobacco and tea. Exhibits purity and density despite the formidable tannins. The finish is long and complex, revealing fruit and spice elements COSTA RUSSI 2011 Round, supple and succulent, the 2011 Costa Russi is laced with dark red cherry, plum, mocha, cloves and new leather. The classic Costa Russi personality comes through in a soft, gracious wine with tons of near and medium-term appeal. The Costa Russi captures an attractive middle ground between the ripe, pliant style of the year and the medium-bodied grace of Nebbiolo. I expect the 2011 will offer a long and broad drinking window of pure pleasure. Although Costa Russi is often the most precocious of Gaja s singlevineyard wines, it is the last site to be picked ml $248 WA ml $275 WS ml $535 WA 94 V PERFETTO 12 ITALIA

15 PIEMONTE LANGHE PIEMONTE LANGHE PIEMONTE ROERO Bruno Giacosa Founded by Carlo Giacosa in 1890 in the Neive community, this traditional estate is one of the pillars of Piedmont and one of the most important and emblematic representations of the region. Bruno Giacosa, a third-generation winemaker, took over from his father, Mario, in He produced his first wines using grapes grown by viti culturists with whom his family had a long-standing relationship (Casa Vinicola Bruno Giacosa). In 1982, he acquired his first vines (20 hectares on some of the best terroirs in Barolo and Barbaresco), known under the name Azienda Agricola Falletto. This modest, meticulous and immensely talented winemaker s many cuvées are undeniable proof of his remarkable skill. 20 SORÌ SAN LORENZO 2011 The 2011 Sorì San Lorenzo boasts massive depth, intensity and power. Black fruit, smoke, tar, licorice, savory herbs and leather are some of the many notes that emerge from the glass. Regardless of the year, the personality of Sorì San Lorenzo always comes through, which is why this is one of the great sites in Barbaresco, Piedmont and Italy. In 2011 the contours are a bit softer, which gives the wine a level of accessibility that is quite rare in Sorì San Lorenzos when the wines are young. Why is Sorì San Lorenzo one of the world s most profound vineyards? Because its personality simply can t be denied SORÌ TILDÌN 2011 The most convincing red in our tastings was precisely [sic] Sorì Tildìn. This Barbaresco cru offers a nose of berry fruit enriched with hints of eucalyptus and resin. On the palate it is concentrated, with close-woven tannins, but delightfully soft body, ensuring balance and harmony. It is in a class of its own and deservedly took our top accolade. Italian Wines 2015, Gambero Rosso 22 ARNEIS 2014 Dark, straw-yellow colour. Intense, fine and elegantly fruity bouquet reminiscent of peach, apricot, citrus, fruit and acacia flowers. Fresh and fragrant flavour with soft plentifulness ml $535 V ml $535 V 96 GR ml $ PERFETTO 13 ITALIA

16 PIEMONTE BARBARESCO Bruno Giacosa PIEMONTE BAROLO Giuseppe Mascarello e Figlio Founded in the community of Castiglione Falletto, this estate has been the incarnation of trad itional Piedmont winemaking since Mauro Mascarello, fourth-generation winemaker, has skilfully headed the estate since He prefers slow fermenta tion and long maturation in Slavonian oak barrels, sparing no effort at the vines either. He is strict and meticulous when it comes to sorting the fruit to ensure that only the very best grapes make it into his product. The 6-hectare Monprivato vineyard, the estate s figurehead, is where they produce their Barolos. They have had a monopoly over the vineyard since the late 1980s and it is the source of some of the single most renowned wines of Barolo. The cuvées produced are one of the region s highlights. This is Nebbiolo at its very best. PIEMONTE BAROLO 23 ASILI 2012 Bruno Giacosa s 2012 Barbaresco Asili benefitted from a warm growing season. The wine opens to a dark, compact appearance and shows an impressive level of aromatic intensity and complexity. This bodes well for the aging potential of this beautiful wine. Fresh acidity caps a very pretty portrait of the Nebbiolo grape. This is a lovely offering from this historic producer. 24 VIGNA SANTO STEFANO PERNO Nebbiolo enthusiasts will be charmed by the Barolo Vigna Santo Stefano Perno. This beautiful expression offers ample grace and elegance with focused sharpness and a carefully delineated feel. The bouquet reveals tones of wild berry, crushed mineral, white pepper and dried ginger. The wine s balsamic characteristics help to amplify its beauty and delicate intensity. Nuanced tones of rose petal and dried violets appear softly on the long finish. 25 VILLERO The Barolo Villero is shaped in a classic style with 36 months of aging in botte grande. In line with tradition, it presents a sharp and streamlined style with a feminine and elegant personality. Instead of muscle and brawn, it boasts length and persistency. Its appearance is thin and bright with luminous garnet hues. In the mouth, the wine is focused and pristine with supple, silky tannins. It promises to flesh out further with additional cellar aging ml $215 WA ml $115 WA ml $115 WA PERFETTO 14 ITALIA

17 PIEMONTE BAROLO PIEMONTE LANGHE Pelissero Based in the community of Treiso, in the heart of Barbaresco, the Pelissero family went from selling to vinifying their estate-grown grapes in just three generations. Luigi was the first to discover (and bottle) the exceptional quality of the property s terroirs. It was his son Giorgio that truly glorified the wines made from the 38 hectares of land that produce that estate s wines, which are dominated by local red grape varieties. Reaching the peak of what Barbarescos have to offer, the estate also produces DOC-classified Langhe using daring new blends such as the Long Now, which is produced with equal parts of Nebbiolo and Barbera. Pelissero s successful production and distribution can be attrib uted to their dynamism, innovation and a complete commitment to operations. PIEMONTE BAROLO Luciano Sandrone Luciano Sandrone cut his teeth by making some 1,500 bottles of Barolo using grapes from the Cannubi cru that he vinified in his parents garage in Several years later, when he brought a few bottles of his 1978 vintage to Vinitaly, an American importer requested his entire production and a legend was born. Quickly rising to the elite of his appellation, he has received laudatory reviews from notable critics, including Robert Parker, who called him Super Sandrone following his incredible performance during the 1980s. He is now helped out by his younger brother as well as by his daughter. Together, they cultivate 27 hectares of vines, paying particular attention to their environmental impact. 26 MONPRIVATO Mauro Mascarello does not disappoint with his stunning Barolo Monprivato. This is an impeccable expression from Castiglione Falletto that imparts an immense sense of purity and elegance. The bouquet opens slowly to reveal pressed flower, cola, dried ginger, forest fruit and balsam herb. This is a magnificent expression of Nebbiolo that changes and shifts each time you come back to contemplate its aromas. That magical fluidity is also present in the mouth. The wine presents silky tannins and crisp fruit flavors. Given the sheer quality on display now, you can count on Barolo Monprivato to continue a slow and successful evolution in your cellar. This is a true beauty ml $154 WA 97 WS LONG NOW 2011 The 2011 Long Now is dark, rich and imposing, with fabulous depth allied to a sense of underlying tension that balances some of the wine s inherent opulence. Black cherries, smoke, tobacco, incense and licorice meld together in an explosive Barbera/Nebbiolo blend endowed with magnificent richness and power ml $48 V & 29 CANNUBI BOSCHIS The single-vineyard Barolo Cannubi Boschis speaks in confident tones at high volumes. First produced in 1985, Cannubi Boschis is among the first single-vineyard cru expressions made in Barolo. Thirty-five-year-old vines enjoy south and southeast exposures at 250 meters above sea level. The long growing season has favored optimal tannin ripeness and fine complexity on the bouquet. This is one of the standout wines of this celebrated vintage. It is well worth putting this wine at the back of your cellar where it will be untouched for years ml $139 WA 97 V 97+ GR L $299 WA 97 V 97+ GR PERFETTO 15 ITALIA

18 PIEMONTE BAROLO Paolo Scavino Founded in 1921 by Lorenzo Scavino and his son Paolo, the Castiglione Falletto estate is currently managed by Enrica and Elisa, fourth-generation winemakers, as well as their father, Enrico. At just 10 years of age, Enrico was already working full-time at the winery in the 1950s. Their goal is to perpetuate the family spirit and values through the means of its terroir. With 23 hectares of vineyards, the Scavinos work 19 different growths in the Barolo, Roddi, Serralunga d Alba, Verduno, La Morra and Castiglione Falletto communities. Since 1978, they have been producing the renowned Bric dël Fiasc from fruit grown on the Fiasco cru, which is in a sense the true soul and incarnation of the Paolo Scavino estate. PIEMONTE BARBARESCO Sottimano Rino Sottimano founded this estate in Neive in His son Andrea currently runs the 18 hectares of vineyards with the utmost care, banning the use of pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers in He takes a very Burgundian approach to his winemaking, preferring to focus on the contribution of terroir. His five crus (Currà, Cottà, Fausoni, Pajoré and Basarin) are testaments to the intrinsic qualities of each of his four Barbarescos, which he vinifies identically and then matures in French barrels. His aim is to make wines with elegance and finesse rather than power, and the wines, as a whole, have never been better. PIEMONTE BARBARESCO RISERVA 30 BRIC DËL FIASC Rich and brooding, this red features black cherry, raspberry, tar, leather and licorice flavors. Dense and complex, with a detailed matrix holding the flavors together. This needs time to integrate the dusty tannins, but shows excellent potential from the balance and length PAJORÉ 2012 The 2012 Barbaresco Pajoré is a wine that exudes balance and harmony. The wine is absolutely intact in all its elements and there s a sense of continuity here that sets it apart. As it warms in the glass, this beautiful Barbaresco takes on greater aromatic intensity with its floral tones that blossom brighter and the fruity tones that emerge steadily from the bouquet. Spice, leather and grilled herb linger delicately at the back. The Barbaresco Pajoré is a beautiful wine. 32 BARBARESCO RISERVA Tight and racy, this red exhibits cherry, raspberry, floral and tar flavors, matched to a fresh, firm structure. Gains richness with air, picking up a mineral note on the lingering aftertaste. Terrific length ml $102 WA 96 WS ml $75 WA 93 V ml $194 WS PERFETTO 16 ITALIA

19 PIEMONTE BARBARESCO La Spinetta This estate, a pioneer in the production of Moscato d Asti, was founded in 1977 in Castagnole delle Lanze by Giuseppe (Pin) and Lidia Rivetti. In the mid-1980s, their son Giorgio acquired some wellregarded vineyards and produced the estate s first red wines. His Barolos and Barbarescos have since become renowned for their power and concentration. They have reduced the proportion of new wood for their different cuvées so that each vineyard and wine can best express its individual characteristics. La Spinetta s rise to fame could not have been possible without the help and dynamism of Giorgio Rivetti, who directly contributed to the estate being ranked as one of the uncontested leaders in Piedmont. PIEMONTE BAROLO Vietti The fourth generation of winemakers in the Currado family now runs this estate, which was originally found ed in 1919 by Mario Vietti in the heart of Langhe, in the Castiglione Falletto community. In 1952, Mr. Vietti s son-in-law Alfredo Currado began producing wines of exceptional quality. He was one of the very first to produce parcelbased cuvées in order to focus on their intrinsic character an unconventional technique at the time. A trained oenologist, his son Luca joined the family estate in 1990 after taking classes in California at Opus One as well as in Bordeaux at the Château Mouton Rothschild. In conjunction with his brother-in-law Mario Cordero, he works the 35-hectare vineyards, which extend across nearly all of the communities of Barolo. Together, they have adopted an approach that reflects their terroirs. PIEMONTE BAROLO 33 VIGNETO STARDERI VÜRSÙ The Barbaresco Vigneto Starderi is born in a vineyard that sits at 330 meters above sea level. Giorgio tells me that the challenge here is crafting a wine with both elegance and power. Thanks to ideal growing conditions in, he has succeeded at his task. Firm structure is supported by fleshy fruit tones and elegantly integrated spice. 34 BRUNATE The Barolo Brunate impresses for its textural richness and aromatic generosity. The Brunate cru shows exceptionally well in, offering the kind of structure that is as powerful and lasting as it is finessed and graceful. It s the proverbial iron fist in a silken glove. A burgeoning bouquet of dried flower and pressed cherry roots the wine in a sense of freshness and youthfulness. Indeed, Brunate is a vineyard cru that is particularly suited to long-living Barolo. It is a crime to drink this wine before its time. 35 LAZZARITO With recently expanded acquisitions in this vineyard cru, the Barolo Lazzarito shows an expansive personality with pretty tones of crushed rose and red berry fruit that give the wine a delicate, feminine approach. Like the other wines in Luca s portfolio of new releases, this Barolo is years away from its prime drinking potential. The next 10 years should see a steady evolution of aromas stemming from the spice, tar and licorice layers already on display despite the wine s young age. The mouthfeel is fine and polished with a great sense of purity and balanced freshness ml $140 WA ml $173 WA 96 V ml $173 WA 95 V PERFETTO 17 ITALIA

20 VENETO VINO SPUMANTE DI QUALITÀ BIANCO Zýmē Long considered the successor to his father-inlaw, the legendary and sadly missed Giuseppe Quintarelli, Celestino Gaspari decided to go his own route instead, making a name for himself as one of the leaders in Valpolicella. He began working with Mr. Quintarelli in 1999 and also worked as a consultant for several estates in the region before creating Zýmē in Located in San Pietro, Cariano, the estate covers 30 hectares in the heart of Valpolicella Classico. Marrying tradition and innovation, Mr. Gaspari launched his own project, which included a major creative renewal. He spared no effort to produce distinctive, singular and seductive wines. Renowned critic Antonio Galloni is categorical about Zýmē, considering it to be one of the most meticulously led operations in the entire world. 36 METODO CLASSICO Zýmē s Metodo Classico, 100% Pinot Noir, is bright, focused and brilliant. White flowers, crushed rocks, mint and stone fruits are all beautifully delineated. There is a lot to like in the, including the wine s fine mousse and terrific overall balance. Celestino Gaspari gave the two and a half years on its lees ml $49 V PERFETTO 18 ITALIA

21 VENETO SOAVE CLASSICO Gini Right in the heart of Soave Classico, in Monteforte d Alpone, this cantina has a rich history going back to the 16th century. The strength of the Gini family is being able to work together with enthusiasm and dedication by focusing on their common passions for the vine and their wines. Brothers Sandro and Claudio Gini work in symbiosis with their estate, skilfully managing the 55 hectares of vines that are entirely grown using organic agriculture. Sandro is an oenologist, who mostly manages the property, and Claudio works in the cellar in the company of his son Matteo. Contrada Salvarenza, their historic vineyard, is the pride of their estate. It has always belonged to the Gini family and it is where they grow their old Garganega vines, which are between 60 and 100 years old some of which are still ungrafted. VENETO AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO Brigaldara Brigaldara is a term that first appeared in 1260 as a name for a small group of houses and farms. The Cesari family bought the estate in 1929 and converted it to a vineyard roughly 20 years later. In 1979 they decided to produce their own wine rather than selling their fruit to other producers. Since then, they have purchased several other parcels in addition to founding partnerships with other winemakers to expand their estate. Their Amarone della Valpolicella Classico is produced using a blend dominated by Corvinone, and the appassimento (raisining) extends over 120 days. The estate also produces olive oil and truffles! VENETO VALPOLICELLA SUPERIORE Romano Dal Forno Established just to the east of Verona, in the Val d Illasi portion of the Valpolicella region to be precise, this minuscule estate has barely eight hectares, but is known for its hard-hitting style of winemaking. This reputation is attributable to one man, Romano Dal Forno, an uncompromising and unforgiving winemaker when it comes to quality. Since 1983, his winemaking techniques and know-how have skyrocketed him to the forefront of the very best producers, despite not being in the Classico region. A true sign of a talented winemaker! These are wines for hedonists. Made in a modern style, his Valpolicellas and Amarones are flamboyant, rich, opulent and have incomparable texture. 37 CONTRADA SALVARENZA 2012 A Soave made with 100% Garganega that once again proves this appellation produces some of the very best white wines in Italy, and it does so at affordable prices. The nose smacks of fresh peaches, almonds and honey. There is plenty of volume as well, balanced by a refreshing acidity. Already open and sensuous, this wine could easily spend a few years in the cellar, but why wait when it s so good right now! 38 AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO The Amarone della Valpolicella Classico is a thick and delicious interpretation that delivers loads of personality and determination. The bouquet is redolent of dried fruit, prune, cassis, spice, leather, licorice and teriyaki sauce. The intensity is absolutely irresistible, with power and muscle delivered in a silken glove. Round tannins and plush fruit richness give the wine loads of energy to fuel its long finish. 39 MONTE LODOLETTA 2009 Built like a tank, the 2009 Valpolicella Superiore Monte Lodoletta is a masterful achievement. This wine shows so beautifully, especially in a warm but balanced vintage like The fruit is expressive and articulate with deep layers of blackberry preserves, dried cherry, dark chocolate, espresso bean, mesquite smoke and soy sauce. The mouthfeel is super rich and concentrated as the Dal Forno signature style would dictate. The tannic bite is still strong and this wine needs a few more years to stretch out its muscular build ml $35 ST 92 WA ml $49 WA 93 GR ml $120 WA PERFETTO 19 ITALIA

22 VENETO VALPOLICELLA SUPERIORE Trabucchi d Illasi This 22-hectare estate located in the southern Illasi region on steep southern-facing slopes was founded by Marco Trabucchi, the grandfather of the current owner. Giuseppe and Raffaella Trabucchi subscribe to organic agriculture and are driven to maintain the gentle character of their estate for the people as well as the land. Alberto Trabucchi, Giuseppe s father, was an important player in the establish ment of the Valpolicella production area. The estate grows a number of varieties and is as rigorous in its agricultural practices as it is with its winemaking. Limited production, manual harvesting and control points along all stages of produc tion have allowed the estate to produce wines that awaken the senses and inspire meditation. They also encourage an exis tential balance that we sometimes tend to forget. VENETO AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO Masi Masi is currently known as one of the largest producers in Veneto. Despite their production size, the business has staunchly remained a family property. Sandro Boscaini, with the help of his children and brother, is the seventh generation of the Boscaini family to head the property. Over the years, the Boscaini family has greatly contributed to the development of local expertise thanks to the work they have done on appassimento, the grape-drying method used in the production of Amarones. They have also contributed to the rediscovery of several overlooked local varieties, and they were pioneers in the creation of cuvées made from several unique parcels. Their Amarones are produced from parcels that are used to make some of the very best wines in the appellation. VENETO AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO 40 TERRA DEL CEREOLO 2008 Only 15,000 bottles were produced for this vintage. This wine has a beautiful ruby colour and an inviting aroma of jammy red fruit that also makes a welcome appearance in the mouth. Made from 40% Corvina, 40% Corvinone, 10% Rondinella and 10% Oseleta, this wine offers plenty of ripe fruity flavour dominated by cherry. It is full-bodied, woody and well integrated, with generous and refined tannins. A creation of star oenologist Franco Bernabei, this wine is a true pleasure. 4 1 COSTASERA 1990 Pale garnet; red cherry aromas, with notable spice (caraway and cardamom). Medium full, this has beautifully tuned acidity, a lengthy finish and round tannins. Lovely balance throughout; note of brown spice on the finish. World of Fine Wine CAMPOLONGO DI TORBE 1997 Deep garnet; aromas of Queen Anne cherry, strawberry, red plum and a hint of chocolate. Medium full, with excellent concentration. Generous mid-palate; ideal ripeness, very good acidity and rich, balanced tannins. Distinct notes of bitter chocolate in the fi n i s h.l o v e l yw i n e. World of Fine Wine 2012 O U R F AV O U RIT E ml $39 ST ml $185 WFW ml $205 WS 93 WFW PERFETTO 20 ITALIA

23 VENETO VENETO Giuseppe Quintarelli Giuseppe Quintarelli was more than a winemaker. He was an artist of Veronese wine and a mythical figure in the world of winemaking. Known to his friends as Bepi, he was recognized as the founding father of some of the best Amarones in the region before he passed away in His perfectionism and the incomparable quality of his wines have inspired many winemakers. The majority of the vineyards on his estate, which cover 12 hectares, are located west of Verona in the Negrar Valley and are concentrated in the best (Classico) area. The Maestro del Veneto has been succeeded by his wife Franca and his daughter Fiorenza as well as her husband Giampaolo and their sons Francesco and Lorenzo. Together, they have taken the reins of the estate, which is renowned for its legendary tradition and the immense keeping power of its wines. VENETO AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO VENETO VENETO 43 ROSSO DEL BEPI 2005 Amarone is only produced in exceptional years. In average years, the wine is declassified and bottled as Rosso del Bepi. In poor years, neither Amarone nor Ross del Bepi is produced. After harvest, grapes sit in wooden boxes or on rush mats. Careful attention is paid to the positioning of the grapes so the appassimento can occur naturally. Fermentation lasts 45 days. Wine is then racked and ages in Slavonian oak barrels for seven years. Alcoholic fermentation continues during this aging period creating a dry wine. 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Cabernet Franc, 20% Merlot AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO 2006 Amarone is only produced in exceptional years. In truly exceptional years, an Amarone Riserva is produced, a personal barrel selection by the family. Careful selection of grapes during harvest. After harvest, grapes sit in wooden boxes or on rush mats. Careful attention is paid to the positioning of the grapes so the appassimento can occur naturally. Fermentation lasts 45 days. Wine is then racked and ages in Slavonian oak barrels for seven years. Alcoholic fermentation continues during this aging period creating a dry wine. A blend of 55% Corvina and Corvinone, 30% Rondinella, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, Nebbiolo, Croatina, Sangiovese ALZERO 2005 The 2005 Alzero is all about finesse. Freshly cut flowers, mint and sweet red berries are laced together in a finessed, racy Alzero loaded with class. Because of its mid-weight structure, the 2005 should drink well relatively early, although it will always have the bright, refreshing acidity of the cool vintage. The 2005 is approximately 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Cabernet Franc and 20% Merlot ml $ ml $384 V 9 6 (2004 VINTAGE) ml $470 V PERFETTO 21 ITALIA

24 VENETO COLLI EUGANEI ROSSO Vignalta Following several years of tasting the best wines that Bordeaux had to offer, Lucio Gomiero, founder of the Vignalta estate, realized that if Pomerol can do it, so can we! A contraction of vigna and alta ( high vine ), this 50-hectare estate, the largest in the region, is named for its high-altitude location in the heart of the Veneto region. Covering a group of hills in southwestern Padova in the Colli Euganei appellation, the estate shares the same latitude as the Bordeaux region. Their Merlots and Cabernets are especially wonderful and few winemakers can better exemplify these varieties than Vignalta. This is why they are the engine that drives this renowned appellation. 46 GEMOLA 2009 Located in Veneto near the city of Padua in northeastern Italy, the Vignalta estate produces the Gemola cuvée using Merlot (70%) and Cabernet Franc (30%). The wine is matured for 24 months in 500-litre French oak barrels before spending 12 months in the bottle before being sold. The wine s aroma resounds with ripe fruit (raspberry, plum and blackberry), spice and cocoa notes. The wine has a soft texture and is marked by the use of Cabernet Franc, ending with a preserved fruit and mocha finish ml $45 S T PERFETTO 22 ITALIA

25 Argiano The Argiano estate s history goes back to the Roman era though its viticultural past only goes back as far as the tail end of the 16th century. The owners of this historic estate participated in the growth of the Brunello di Montalcino appellation in 1967 by collaborating with other producers in the establishment of the Consorzio del Vino Brunello di Montalcino. Following the arrival of Countess Noemi Marone Cinzano in 1992, the estate took up a more modern approach. The Countess sold the property in 2013 to a group of Brazilian businessmen who have pursued the excellent work she began with the creation of sensational cuvées that have wooed wine lovers around the world. BOLGHERI SUPERIORE Barone Ricasoli The Ricasoli family s history and connections to viticulture go back to 1141 when they became the owners of the Castello di Brolio property. Their history is especially influential in the region s history and its wines include the famous Chiantis, which were first defined by Bettino Ricasoli at the end of the 19th century as being made from Sangiovese as they still are today. The house motto nothing worth having is gained without effort suits them perfectly. They currently create some of the region s very best wines, walking a remarkable balance between tradition and modernity. These are wines with truly remarkable longevity. BOLGHERI Ca Marcanda In 1996, Angelo Gaja arrived in Maremma in the community of Castagneto Carducci in Bolgheri. Ca Marcanda means the house of never-ending negotiations in the local dialect. It refers to the incalculable number of hours Mr. Gaja spent trying to convince the owners of the property to sell to him. The enormous potential offered by the terroir was yet to be fully tapped; when Mr. Gaja finally took it over there was only an orchard, an olive grove and a few feet of vines. He opted to grow varieties from Bordeaux, including Syrah and Sangiovese, on the 60 hectares that make up the vineyard. Produced since 2000, Camarcanda is the estate s grand cuvée and quickly rose to equal the great wines of the Bolgheri. 47 SUOLO 2012 Produced for the first time in 2000 Suolo is made with 100% Sangiovese grapes grown in the estate s oldest vineyards. The name Suolo is a tribute to the ground that hosts the vines (suolo being the Italian word for ground ) and which conveys great complexity to them. With its good structure, Suolo is smooth and velvety, well balanced overall, dark and mysterious, with superbly integrated oaky notes. The aftertaste lingers, with balsamic, earthy and persistent fruity scents. It presents notes of red berries, flowers, spices, liquorice, smoke and earthiness that are clearly outlined and perfumed in a magnifi cently pure and vibrant expression of Sangiovese that explodes on the palate. Just 3,000 bottles and 60 magnums are made each year ASTUTO 2012 This cuvée project by Barone Ricasoli, done in collaboration with Podere Sapaio, is a Bordeaux-style blend with Cabernet Sauvignon as the dominant variety. The aroma is distinctly reminiscent of cedar, blackcurrant and grilled red pepper. The mouthfeel is well structured and though the maturation character is still quite strong, it has a truly remarkable quality. The freshness, structure and length accentuate its woody, spicy notes, which are likely to last over time. This is a wine that will become softer and more defined as it ages. 49 MAGARI 2012 One of our panel s favourites. Roughly translated, magari means if only!, an Italian expression related to desire, hope and an optimistic vision of the future. For Ca Marcanda, the future looks promising, especially since their cuvées are already excellent. Dominated by the use of Merlot, with the addition of equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, the wine is matured for 18 months in barrels and then spends another six months in the bottle for additional refinement. Exceptionally straightforward, it is complex and tight in the mouth, retaining its character through lactic, spicy/woody, vanilla and fruity notes. An authentic Gaja signature! O U R F AV O U RIT E ml $129 WA 93 (2011 VINTAGE) ml $49 ST ml $65 ST 94 WA PERFETTO 23 ITALIA

26 BOLGHERI Ca Marcanda BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO Camigliano Located in the remote southwestern region of Montalcino, Camigliano is part of a chain of medieval castles that were originally a series of guard towers. In 1957, Milan-based entrepreneur Walter Ghezzi acquired what is now considered to be one of the largest properties in Montalcino. This vast 500-hectare estate, where vines and olive trees grow side by side, began producing its first Brunellos in In the 1980s, Mr. Ghezzi s son Gualtiero and his wife Laura began a major planting and restructuring program of the vineyards, which now cover 90 hectares of vines. With the help of oenologist Lorenzo Landi, the quality of their wines has excelled thanks to their skilled use of perfectly ripe Sangiovese. Castellare di Castellina Paolo Panerai established his venture in the Castellina commune in Chianti in A former journalist and owner of the prolific Italian press group Class Editori, Mr. Panerai carefully studied how the best wine in the world was being made before launching full force into his project. The 80-hectare property is a veritable wildlife refuge, including several at-risk species of birds. His dedication to the protection of these species is the reason behind the estate s choice of labels. Under the careful eye of oenologist and winemaker Alessandro Cellai since 1997, the 30-hectare estate primarily focuses on growing Sangiovese. Castellare di Castellina is without a doubt one of Chianti Classico s best offerings. 50 CAMARCANDA 2011 The 2011 Bolgheri Camarcanda opens to plump berry notes with apparent ripeness in the form of sun-drenched blackberry and plum. The fruit element in this Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Franc blend is dark and compelling, and the mouthfeel follows suit with soft tannins and dark concentration. The 2011 vintage is also characterized by a more evident tannic bite that should soften with time. 51 GUALTO RISERVA 2009 The 2009 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Gualto is a beautifully compact and stitched-up wine with great balance and intensity overall. The bouquet shows pretty aromas of cherry, blackberry, spice, licorice and wet earth that fit together like an intricate jigsaw puzzle. The wine is just as compelling in the mouth with soft tannins, good richness and a fine point of acidity that adds focus to the entire presentation. There are added nuances derived from the oak, as there are from the warm 2009 vintage. Both contribute to the wine s softness. Overall, the wine offers a good sense of balance and steadiness. 52 I SODI DI S. NICCOLÒ 2011 Dense, yet lively and focused, revealing black cherry, plum, spice and licorice flavors. Balanced and long, but needs time for all the components to emerge. Sangiovese and Malvasia Nera ml $159 WA ml $67 WA ml $72 W S PERFETTO 24 ITALIA

27 CHIANTI CLASSICO GRAN SELEZIONE Castelli del Grevepesa This cooperative, which had roughly 20 members when it was founded in 1965, has flourished, and it now has 150 members, four of whom have been members since its founding. Scattered across Chianti, the vineyards cover a significant amount of territory in the Classico appellation. The maestro of this group is agricultural engineer and oenologist Ugo Pagliani, who prides himself on being present at all steps of production, from vine to bottle. His rigorousness and irreproachable mastery of the field have allowed Castelli del Grevepesa to become the leader of the pack for cooperative cellars in the entire peninsula. Castello di Bossi Located northwest of Sienna in Castelnuovo Berardenga, Castello di Bossi has been producing wine for over 800 years. The property was purchased by the Bacci family and with them came modern viticulture and winemaking techniques, and the development of more refined wine. Sangiovese dominates production at the estate, which covers nearly 120 hectares, and it is used for the production of several wines in the Chianti appellation as well as in the Super Tuscan cuvées that are a blend of several international varieties. Their cuvées are given lengthy maturation in French Allier oak barrels. 53 PANZANO The ring of hills to the south of the renowned village of Panzano has been dubbed the Golden Valley because of the quality of the wines it produces. This important location in Chianti has magnificent sun exposure and the composition of its soil is truly unique. The wines are barrel-matured in French oak and then spend time ripening in the bottle for a total of 30 months. The wine production here has not been touched by modernity; they proudly prefer to take a traditional approach with supple and fresh wines as their goals. This is the perfect wine to complement your next Italian dinner. 54 GIROLAMO This is a wine with an explosive aroma of red fruit, coffee and mocha. A thoroughly modern cuvée, it is made with 100% Merlot and has a limited annual production of just 10,000 bottles. Remarkably wellbalanced and sensuous, the wine is frank in flavour, with subtle hints of chocolate in the finish. The tannins are silky soft and lingering. Quite pleasant already. O U R F AV O U RIT E ml $38 ST 90 WS ml $59 ST 94 V PERFETTO 25 ITALIA

28 Castello Fonterutoli The Mazzei family has owned Fonterutoli since 1435, and the family estate has an impressive spread of 650 hectares, 117 of which grow grapes. The family used its influence to acquire another estate in the Maremma region in the 1990s and more recently another estate in southern Sicily. Taking a modern and highly qualitative approach, the family produces seductive wines that are impressive across the entire price range. Over the past few years, their cuvées have improved in precision and finesse. They certainly rank among the elite of their respective appellations. BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO Ciacci Piccolomini d Aragona This estate, which includes a palace built in the 17th century by the Bishop of Montalcino, took its current name in the middle of the 20th century. Giuseppe Bianchini inherited the property in 1985 and dedicated himself to improving the quality of the wines until his passing in His children are the current heads of the estate. Their best cuvées come from the roughly 12-hectare Pianrosso parcel, which is planted with old-vine Sangiovese Grosso. A pioneer in the fight against counterfeit wines, the estate began putting holograms on its bottles in 2006 to ensure their authenticity. BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO RISERVA Col d Orcia In 1973 the Piedmontese Cinzano family acquired Col d Orcia, one of the oldest estates in Montalcino, dating back to Located in the Val d Orcia, just south of the city of Montalcino, the area has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since The estate is the third largest in the Brunello di Montalcino appellation. The estate is working hard to protect the land by growing its produce (grapes, olives, etc.) through organic agriculture. The Poggio al Vento vineyard is research oriented, working in partnership with the University of Florence to develop two Sangiovese clones that are adapted to the Col d Orcia terroir. 55 SIEPI 2011 The Siepi vineyard, a cru unto itself, is among the estate s very best parcels. This 6-hectare vineyard is in the perfect location and is responsible for providing the wine with its power and distinction. A few years of patience will allow this wine s already charming aroma to fully blossom, though its freshness wowed us with its aroma of black cherry, blueberry, thyme, licorice and truffle. According to the prestigious Gambero Rosso annual review, this is one of the 50 wines that changed the style of Italian wines. 56 PIANROSSO Beautiful and delicate from the start, the Brunello di Montalcino Vigna di Pianrosso impresses for its depth and balance. The wine sees one more year of oak cask aging compared to the base Brunello, and you can definitely sense the extra spice on the nose. Those delicate balsam notes of root beer, ginger and rosemary oil are still prominently on display. Rich spice, leather and tar are followed by dark fruit, prune, blackberry and cassis. The finish is graceful and silky, but its length remains impressive. This is a terrific effort that promises a steady evolution ahead. 57 & 58 POGGIO AL VENTO 2007 The estate s 2007 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Poggio al Vento is striking. Freshly cut roses, sweet spices and red cherries wrap around the palate in a sensual wine endowed with superb depth and pedigree. This is one of the more feminine, gracious wines of the year. It will be interesting to see where the 2007 Poggio al Vento goes over the coming decades. Today, it is all about texture. The combination of dazzling fruit supported by plenty of structure makes me think this is one of the few 2007 Riservas that is built for the long haul ml $99 ST 95 GR ml $69 WA ml $117 V L $247 V PERFETTO 26 ITALIA

29 COSTA Duemani Luca d Attoma, owner and winemaker of the Duemani (two hands) estate, worked as a consultant for several prestigious houses such as Tua Rita and Le Macchiole before launching his own venture with his partner Elena Celli. Certified biodynamic since 2004, the estate s seven hectares are planted in high density on poor and arid soil. The estate s three parcels are planted with Cabernet Franc, Syrah and Merlot respectively. The estate quickly developed an enviable reputation for the production of wines that offer finesse, grace and elegant maturation over extraction. The estate s Cabernet Franc wines are certainly some of the very best produced in Italy, if not the entire planet. MAREMMA Fattoria di Magliano Former shoe designer Agostino Lenci decided to pursue his passion for winemaking in 1996, settling in the Maremma region. He founded the Fattoria di Magliano, selling his first wines in the early 2000s and quickly became a rising star in the region. The property covers nearly 100 hectares, 52 of which are planted with vines, most of which are local varieties, including Sangiovese and Vermentino. The estate has also made a go with other varieties such as Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Since 2011, the vineyards have been converted to organic production, with the wines being certified organic starting with the 2014 vintage. 59 ALTROVINO 2012 Made with equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Franc, only a quarter of the 40,000 bottles produced annually at the estate are used for this cuvée. Luca d Attoma, dubbed Tuscany s prodigal son, has produced yet another truly elegant wine. Full-bodied and possessing a wonderful aroma reminiscent of cedar, it has a savoury character in the mouth that pairs beautifully with its ripe, blueberry-dominated fruitiness and a superb fi n i s h o ff ering a hint of licorice. This is a wine with lovely, forward tannins; however, you should strongly consider decanting if you don t have the patience to wait another few years. 60 PERENZO Just 5,000 bottles of this Syrah are produced every year. It bears the hallmark nose of Italian wine with aromas of violet, blackberry and licorice. On the palate, it is soft, sensuous, surprisingly accessible and already quite seductive. The finish has excellent length and notes of ripe red fruit and lavender. Though it could easily be cellared, this one will be hard to resist drinking right away because it is already quite open and enjoyable. O U R F AV O U RIT E ml $43 ST 92 V ml $39 ST 91 V 92 WS PERFETTO 27 ITALIA

30 CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA Fèlsina Q&A WITH Giovanni Poggiali CEO, FÈLSINA What makes the Chianti Classico region so unique and remarkable? The Chianti Classico appellation is the authentic representation of the Chianti region. It s an incredible territory, both for the great wines it produces and for its natural landscape and history, which reveals itself in a thousand ways through abbeys, churches, castles, villas, farms and ancient walls, while not forgetting its cuisine and traditional ingredients, deriving from the rich and varied produce of the land. And when discussing history, we should not forget that we are at the heart of Tuscany, halfway between two important cities, Florence and Siena, to which Italy and I would say, Europe and the rest of the world, too owe fundamental pages of their culture and civilization. What makes Sangiovese one of the greatest red varieties in the world, and why is it so challenging? Sangiovese, to me, is the quintessential Italian wine. Its greatest strength is that it can measure up to traditional local cuisine as well as food from around the world and be equally satisfying when served on its own. How remarkable for a single bottle to offer all these characteristics at once! The Sangiovese vine is challenging because it compels you to respect it, to adapt to its variability and fickleness, and to understand its close relationship with the soil from which it grows. Fattoria di Fèlsina, located in the Castelnuovo Berardenga community, is one of the most illustrious estates in the southern part of the Chianti Classico region. In 1966, when Domenico Poggiali acquired the vast property, it had less than three hectares of vines. With the help of his son Beppe, the vineyard was expanded, and with the further help of his son-in-law Giuseppe Mazzocolin, the family farm found its true calling. In 1982, Mr. Mazzocolin launched himself full time into the estate leaving behind his former occupation as a teacher. He made the acquaintance of oenologist Franco Bernabei and, together, they decided that instead of planting Bordeaux varieties, they would focus heavily on planting Sangiovese across the 94 hectares that make up the current estate. A remarkable estate! 61 RANCIA 2011 The nose is discrete and sophisticated, with notes of black cherry, mocha, licorice and incense. In the mouth, however, this is bold wine offering plenty of volume and an impressive structure. You can tell that despite its youth, this is a wine with enormous potential. The tannins are superb and the long black cherry and licorice finish is absolutely enchanting. Another remarkable success from a renowned estate. How does Castelnuovo Berardenga stand out from the other terroirs of the Chianti Classico region? Within Castelnuovo Berardenga, as with all Chianti Classico wines, there are many different situations. In my opinion, the main features of this part of Chianti are greater exposure to light and to breezes from the Tyrrhenian Sea, which sometimes make their way into the large basin extending between Mount Amiata and the last declining slopes of the Chianti Mountains. O U R F AV O U RIT E ml $49 ST WA 94 V Would you say that the Chianti Classico region has many faces in terms of style? And between traditional and modern, where would Fattoria di Fèlsina stand? As a matter of fact, the Chianti Classico region is very diverse, even if Sangiovese wines are very recognizable. Fèlsina stands among the estates that can be considered modern because of its innovative methods of working that nevertheless show unconditional respect for the soils of every single vineyard. So while we consider ourselves modern, for this reason, we also feel very conservative.

31 CHIANTI CLASSICO GRAN SELEZIONE Fontodi If the size of a property was the measure of quality and the expression displayed by the range of its products, Fontodi would certainly lead the pack. Owned by the Manetti family since 1968, this 70-hectare estate is located in Panzano in the heart of the Chianti Classico region. Nestled in a veritable amphitheatre of vines, this stunning appellation is known as Conca d Oro. Giovanni Manetti is the head of this monument to Tuscan winemaking and he leads the charge by producing unparalleled Sangiovese that are complex and successful. Their wines are always sheltered from speculative pricing and their crus are some of the region s most prized. VINSANTO DEL CHIANTI CLASSICO 62 FONTALLORO The Fontalloro is 100% Sangiovese sourced from various vineyards. It starts off with a sassy, playful personality thanks to ripe cherry and forest fruit. The complexity of the bouquet builds steadily to include mineral, herbs, anisette and dark clay. The chiseled mineral tones at the back are outstanding. 63 VIGNA DEL SORBO 2011 The plush and ripe 2011 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo shows a type-a personality with bold nuances of black cherry, sweet espresso and baking spice. It is comprised of 95% Sangiovese and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon and ages for two years in French barrel (half the wine) as well as two months in large oak cask. The opulence and richness defini tely stand out... Sweet tannins and rich extraction make up the finish. 64 VINSANTO DEL CHIANTI CLASSICO 2004 Ending on a sweet note, both figuratively and literally, the 2004 Vinsanto del Chianti Classico is a pure incarnation of vinous opulence and beauty. The wine is absolutely stunning, from start to finish... Its thick, viscous consistency glides over the smooth surfaces of the glass with the soft, slow motion movements of maple syrup. The bouquet is impossible to forget as it leaves notes of honey, brown sugar, roasted nut, rum cake, vanilla, white truffle, candied apricot and moist pipe tobacco firmly etched in your memory. The blend is Sangiovese and Malvasia. You don t drink this wine. You slurp it down instead, savoring each tiny drop. O U R F AV O U RIT E ml $65 WA ml $63 WA 94 V ml $63 ST 95 WA PERFETTO 29 ITALIA

32 Guado al Tasso Though the Antinori family has been growing grapes for 26 generations, the Guado al Tasso project is far more recent. Carlotta della Gherardesca Antinori, mother of Piero Antinori, inherited the property in 1930, after it had already been producing wine for two centuries. Located in the extreme west of Tuscany near the coast, this 1,000-hectare estate currently boasts some 300 hectares of vineyards, and it has greatly contributed to the Bolgheri appellation, which previously specialized in the production of white and rosé wines. Though the estate s flagship cuvée is Guado al Tasso, their Matarocchio has been making ground since the 2007 vintage. CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA Il Molino di Grace Located just south of Panzano, in the heart of Chianti Classico, this estate is named for the historical mill located on the property that dates back to the 19th century and for the Grace family who have owned the estate since Grapes have been grown on the property for over 350 years and their fruit supplied the local producers before the arrival of Frank Grace. Mr. Grace transformed the property and acquired the equipment necessary to produce fine wine in accordance with his philosophy of sustainable development. Convinced of the benefits of this type of agricultural practice, he converted the estate s 40 hectares to organic production. BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO Siro Pacenti Founded in 1971, this family estate got its second wind in 1988 when Siro s son, Giancarlo Pacenti, jumped aboard and dedicated his life to making the business flourish. A friend of Professor Yves Glories from the time when he was director of the Faculty of Oenology at Bordeaux, Mr. Pacenti was determined to unlock all the secrets the Montalcino terroir had to offer. This dedication allowed him to improve the quality of his wine by taking inspiration from the Bordeaux concept of first and second château wines. He is also rightly recognized as a pioneer in the new generation of Italian producers who take their inspiration from ideas that surpass traditional techniques as well as the boundaries of their own country. 65 MATAROCCHIO 2011 I was blown away by the 2011 Matarocchio (100% Cabernet Franc). From 15-year-old vines planted some 60 meters above sea level on the Tuscan coast, this wine is absolutely stunning, delicious and simply unforgettable. Only produced in 2007, 2009 and 2011, this third edition shows towering aromas of sensuous dark fruit, leather and tobacco. If Cabernet Franc is the darling grape of this appellation, Matarocchio is a reason why. The mouthfeel is penetrating and powerful, but seamless and silky smooth at the same time. The tannin management is excellent. This is one to keep in the cellar. 66 IL MARGONE 2007 Located in Greve, where some of the most highly regarded Chiantis are produced, this rich and complex wine is made using modern techniques under the guidance of Franco Bernabei. Its aroma is redolent with ripe cherry, tobacco and a hint of licorice that also makes a welcome appearance on the palate. The finish is long with meltingly soft tannins. Note that as of the vintage, Il Margone will be sold under the Gran Selezione appellation. 67 VECCHIE VIGNE This brooding version is lean and sinewy in profile, with dusty, chewy tannins gripping the cherry and strawberry fruit. This comes around with air, showing more sweetness and balance. O U R F AV O U RIT E ml $300 WA ml $35 ST 92 WS ml $105 WS PERFETTO 30 ITALIA

33 CARMIGNANO RISERVA Piaggia Convinced of the enormous potential offered by Carmignano, a region located to the west of Florence, Mauro Vannucci acquired his land in the mid-1970s. Sangiovese, the region s flagship variety, takes up the lion s share of his vineyards, but Cabernet Sauvignon, which has also been grown in the region since the late 18th century, is also grown at the estate, providing 20% of the blend for some of their wines. The estate currently covers 15 hectares of vines and is skilfully managed by his daughter Silvia. Distinctly modern in their approach to winemaking, the Vannuccis now prefer longer maceration times with gentler extraction, allowing the fruit to emerge with a remarkable purity of character. BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO Il Poggione Wine Advocate s Monica Larner has declared the father-son duo of Fabrizio and Alessandro Bindocci the most accomplished in Italy. Their meticulousness at the vines and in the cellar have raised Leopoldo and Livia Franceschi s estate to the peak of the appellation. In the heart of the Val d Orcia, just a few kilometres from Montalcino, lies Il Poggione, nestled in the picturesque town of Sant Angelo in Colle. Covering 125 hectares, the estate is one of the largest in the region. One of the original trio behind the Brunello di Montalcino appellation, its history goes back to the late 1800s. The estate prefers a traditional approach and is proud of it. It boasts that Il Poggione is a return to the classics, and it will make you feel like you are truly at home! BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO RISERVA 68 CARMIGNANO RISERVA 2011 This time the Carmignano Riserva 11 is on best form. This has always been Piaggia s grand vin, but this vintage displays the winery s signature rich extract, without excess, charming hints of marasca cherries and red and black berries, and its classic spicy nuances of tobacco and balsam. Above all, the palate is soft and satisfying, succulent but edgy, with beautifully mellow tannins and a very lingering flavour. Italian Wines 2015, Gambero Rosso 69 BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO The Brunello di Montalcino is a striking wine that shows uncompromising varietal pureness, albeit in a most concentrated and elaborate form. This is what great Sangiovese is all about. There s so much happening on the nose and the wine brings you to cherry, spice, licorice, cured meat, pressed rose and grilled meat in equal measure. No one element overpowers the next. The mouthfeel is also tight and bright with the kind of fruit intensity that promises long cellar aging. This Brunello is only at the beginning of a long road ahead. The longer the wine stays in the glass, the more it offers in terms of complexity and intensity. 70 VIGNA PAGANELLI 2007 Il Poggione s 2007 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Vigna Paganelli is utterly stunning, but it is surprisingly tannic and huge for a vintage in which so many wines are much more approachable. Layers of dark red stone fruit open up on the palate, followed by sweet spices, savory herbs and mint. Beautifully perfumed and expressive throughout, the 2007 is a jewel of a wine. The only thing it needs is time ml $49 V 94 GR ml $54 WA ml $85 V PERFETTO 31 ITALIA

34 Luce della Vite The Luce della Vite estate ( light of life ) is the fruit of a project launched in 1990 by Vittorio Frescobaldi and Robert Mondavi. A project that unites two winemaking visions over two continents. Their sons Lamberto Frescobaldi and Tim Mondavi blend Sangiovese and Merlot to create an exceptional Tuscan from the heart of the prestigious Brunello di Montalcino appellation, a first for the region. Since the beginning of the 2000s, Lamberto Frescobaldi has been the sole head of the estate, producing a tiny amount of Brunello di Montalcino with fruit taken from just five of the estate s 77 hectares. 7 1 LUCE 2004 Refined and balanced style. Subtle aromas and flavors of ripe fruits, dried flowers and aniseed. Full, yet very fine LUCE 2001 The 2001 Luce, the best made to date, underscores just how well Merlot works with Sangiovese, filling out the frame and softening some of the asperities, just as its does with Cabernet in Bordeaux. A full ruby in color, ripe, intense, spicy and penetrating in aroma, the wine is packed on the palate, broad, substantial and long, and with the muscles and velvet that only the classiest of wines manage to exhibit. 7 3 LUCE 1999 A cool, reserved bouquet of sweet dried cherry, truffle, licorice and spice highlights this red. Fresh, elegant, complex and harmonious, firmly structured and long. Ready to enjoy now, but there s no rush ml $185 JS ml $211 WA ml $211 WS PERFETTO 32 ITALIA

35 Le Macchiole Before his unfortunate passing at the young age of 40, Eugenio Campolmi was one of the Bolgheri region s pioneers in the early 1980s, along with Marquis Incisa della Rocchetta, who created the renowned Sassicaia. He quickly learned that the best results could be obtained by using French varieties rather than Italian. His wife Cinzia Merli took the reins at the estate after Mr. Campolmi s passing and she is still in charge today. With the help of renowned oenologist Luca d Attoma, they produce sensational, prodigious wines. The estate s 24 hectares of vines are tended organically, producing five distinct cuvées, including the renowned Paleo Rosso (Cabernet Franc), Scrio (Syrah) and Messorio (Merlot) that are a testament to the winemaking skill of this Tuscan estate. 74 PALEO ROSSO 2011 The 2011 Paleo Rosso gives you every reason to fall in love. What impresses the most is the floral imprint this 100% Cabernet Franc offers on the bouquet. It s really quite remarkable: Pressed rose and dried lavender are almost perfume-like in intensity. In fact, I can t remember a past edition of Paleo with a bouquet of this unique caliber. It boasts a huge sense of textural richness, with polished tannins and thick, dark extraction. The 2011 Paleo is particularly monumental in the mouth. 7 5 SCRIO 2011 The 2011 Scrio (100% Syrah) is the vintage darling. The wine boasts abundant varietal character with black fruit and morello cherry in center stage. Asian spice and barbecue smoke round off the edges, and the wine delivers a lavish dose of crushed stone, soda, blue flower and smoked bacon as well. It stands tall with wide shoulders, supported by finely etched tannins, thick concentration and a bright spot of acidity on the long finish. 76 MESSORIO 2011 The 2011 Messorio takes hold of all the senses and never lets up. Rich and explosive to the core, the 2011 boasts stunning intensity and depth. Today, the 2011 is painfully young and packed with tannin. Even with all of its size, the 2011 retains gorgeous aromatic complexity and tons of nuance. This is a fabulous showing from Le Macchiole ml $99 WA 95 GR ml $165 WA 96 V ml $232 V PERFETTO 33 ITALIA

36 Montevertine Sergio Manetti acquired this property nestled in Radda, south of Florence, in The regulations in effect at the time stipulated that Chianti Classico had to be a blend. Mr. Manetti, however, dreamt of a different wine that would reveal the splendour that Tuscany s emblematic variety Sangiovese had to offer. Produced since 1979 with the help of the late oenologist Giulio Gambelli, Le Pergole Torte bears witness to the terroir of Chianti s Radda region and the beauty that the fickle variety has to offer when in a solo role. Sold at the outset as a vino da tavola, the wine has had no difficulty finding takers thanks to its exceptional quality. Mr. Manetti passed away in 2000, leaving the estate to his son Martino, who oversees the production of one of the most elegant and refined expressions of Sangiovese. VINO NOBILE DI MONTEPULCIANO Poliziano Dino Carletti acquired this 22-hectare estate in the Montepulciano community in The estate is now a reference for the appellation and is currently run by the founder s son Federico Carletti. Driven by his dynamism and passion, he expanded the 125-hectare Montepulciano estate and then created two further estates, one in Cortona (7 hectares) and the other in Maremma (28 hectares). Asinone is beyond doubt the jewel of the estate and part of the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano appellation. Federico understands how to express a modern vision for wine while still respecting local tra ditions, especially when it comes to the generous use of Prugnolo Gentile (Sangiovese). CHIANTI CLASSICO GRAN SELEZIONE Tolaini Bathed by the Tuscan sun, this estate is a showcase for the beauty of Bordeaux varieties grown on Italian soil. Founded by Italian Canadian Pier Luigi Tolaini, half of this 100-hectare property is dedicated to vineyards. Located in the heart of Chianti in the renowned village of Castelnuovo Berardenga, this property vinifies each of its parcels with distinction under the watchful eye of consulting oenologist Michel Rolland. The recipient of several international distinctions, this estate was founded in 1998 and quickly became a point of reference for the region, and its remarkable ascension is still on the rise. According to the estate s owner, Mr. Tolaini, this is because of their constant search for excellence when it comes to selecting the best fruit possible and by applying a combination of traditional knowledge and modern technology. 7 7 LE PERGOLE TORTE 2011 A vivid, beautiful wine, the 2011 Pergole Torte is superb. Warm, early-maturing harvests often attenuate the differences between sites, but not here. The old vines weathered the heat better, resulting in a wine that is very much in line with the past, but with more body, amplitude and resonance. Rose petals, bright red stone fruits and mint are some of the many notes that grace the super-expressive finish. The 2011 spent one year in French oak barrels and a second year in casks ASINONE Named Schiena d Asino because it rises above its surroundings like the back of a donkey, this 14-hectare vineyard is home to the noble Asinone made from the estate s oldest vines, which were planted in The estate s top offering, the Prugnolo Gentile owes its magnificent concentration and unparalleled definition to a 16- to 18-month maturation in French oak barrels. The intensity of its colour and aroma is mirrored on the palate, offering excellent tension and a dense, tight and seemingly endless mouthfeel, with hints of fresh herbs, blackcurrant, leather, plum and cherry. 7 9 MONTEBELLO VIGNETO N Only the very best vintages allow for the production of this cuvée was the first year for the Gran Selezione grade at Tolaini. Prior to 2011, the cuvée was released under the name Riserva. Made from the Numero Sette vineyard, unique to Montebello, this Chianti undergoes triage at the vine as well as postharvest. Its maturation is conducted on wood, fine lees, stainless steel and finally in the bottle, resulting in a superb body, refined elegance and a profile that is reminiscent of bay, olive, cherry, dried flowers and cedar. This exceptional star will shine for a very long time! O U R F AV O U RIT E ml $128 V 97 GR ml $53 ST 94 V ml $42 ST 92 WA PERFETTO 34 ITALIA

37 BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO Valdicava Valdicava s motto, genius loci, means respecting the spirit of each of their wines location. Valdicava has been producing Brunellos under this name for more than 50 years, and the estate believes strongly that great wines are made at the vine. They prefer to take a more traditional approach to winemaking, using Slavonian oak barrels. Only roughly 30 of the estate s 120 hectares are planted with vines and they only grow Sangiovese. This estate has been receiving rave reviews for more than 25 years and is most assuredly one of the best producers to explore if you are a lover of Tuscan wines. Viticcio Owned by the Landini family, this estate drew its first breaths thanks to the efforts of Lucio Landini. An engineer by trade, this lover of Chianti Classico, supported by his wife, took over in the early 1960s, taking the formerly high-volume business and turning it on its head. Motivated by his desire to produce wines of irreproachable quality, he innovated and introduced a philosophy of respect for the environment. Currently, almost all of the estate s vines are tended using biodynamic principles and Viticcio is all the better for it, earning a well-deserved reputation for excellence. Alessandro Landini now continues the tradition begun by his father with the help of his own family. 80 BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2006 The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino flows with gorgeous layers of dark red fruit. This is one of the more muscular, virile wines of the vintage. Slow to reveal its character, the Valdicava Brunello will require significant patience, but I have seen the wine blossom beautifully, even in the smallest of vintages. A blast of iron, smoke, tar, licorice and new leather inform the deep, intense finish. This is a hugely promising, brilliant Brunello from proprietor Vincenzo Abbruzzese, but it needs to be buried in the cellar for at least a few years. Readers who can t wait should open the wine a few hours in advance, which will allow the fruit to emerge. 81 PRUNAIO 2011 Plush, with a deft use of new oak, this dark red delivers black cherry, plum and spice flavors. Elegant rather than powerful, with fine intensity and a fluid line from start to finish. The tannins are present, refined and well integrated. Offers a long, spice-filled aftertaste. Sangiovese ml $124 WA 95+ WS ml $49 ST WS PERFETTO 35 ITALIA

38 ABRUZZO COLLINE TEATINE Masciarelli The Masciarelli estate was founded in 1978 by Gianni Masciarelli and is currently the flagship of Abruzzo wines. It produces over 2 million bottles annually in addition to being the point of origin for many of the region s most successful wines. Mr. Masciarelli met Marina Cvetić in 1987 during a trip to Croatia. She joined him at the vineyards a short while later and six months after that they were married. A full range of wines honours her name to give thanks for her involvement in the creative process. Following Mr. Masciarelli s tragic passing in 2008, she took the helm of the Masciarelli estate and she continues to pursue his vision to this day. 82 MARINA CVETIĆ CHARDONNAY 2012 Produced since 1991, this superb Chardonnay has a beautiful golden yellow colour, with intense aromas of flowers, exotic fruit (pineapple, mango and banana) as well as woody and spicy notes that add to its complexity and evoke additional accents of coconut, smoke, vanilla and butter. The 23 months spent in 100% new oak barrels is definitely apparent. As the wine warms following aeration, the mouthfeel is imposing with an oily texture and full body. The persistent finish leaves us with seductive pear, almond, honey and apricot notes. Modern and thoroughly convincing! ml $43 ST PERFETTO 36 ITALIA

39 ABRUZZO TREBBIANO D ABRUZZO ABRUZZO TREBBIANO D ABRUZZO Valentini Known as mythic winemakers by their peers for their traditional and exceptional work, the Valentini family has been producing wines in the Abruzzo region since the 17th century. The vineyard covers 60 hectares and is tended in the most traditional way, using vines in pergolas and biodynamic principles. Almost the entire production is sold to the local cooperative, holding back only a tiny percentage of the very highest quality to produce their three wines: a rosé (Cerasuolo), a red made from Montepulciano and a white made from Trebbiano. They prefer to avoid intervention as much as possible with no added yeast, filtration and only the smallest amount of sulphur. The Valentini family produces wines that are rare, complex and singular with impressive cellaring ability. ABRUZZO MONTEPULCIANO D ABRUZZO Emidio Pepe Located in the hills of Torano Nuovo in the province of Teramo, this estate is a flagship for the Abruzzo region. They have been producing wine here since the late 19th century and their production philosophy has stayed the same since 1964, the year that Emidio Pepe took the reins of the property. Fifty years later, their agricultural methods have not changed, though they have converted to biodynamic production in the most natural manner possible. Mr. Pepe s daughters Sofia and Daniela and his granddaughter Chiara now work alongside him, perpetuating the family s tradition and winemaking skill. The potential of these wines as well as their unique and traditional character speak volumes. 83 MARINA CVETIĆ RISERVA 2012 The Trebbiano used to make this cuvée averages 50 years of age. The vines come from two distinct vineyards that cover five hectares in total. Fermented and then matured for 22 months in 100% new oak barrels, this wine exudes intoxicating aromas of honey and candied fruit (pineapple and grapefruit) as well as woody notes with hints of marzipan, sweet spice, caramel, vanilla and barley sugar. The mouthfeel is imposing and generous. A perfect dose of acidity lends an essential element to this wine s character, contributing greatly to its balance and persistence. Serve this wine blind and it will pleasantly surprise your keenest wine-loving friends. 84 TREBBIANO D ABRUZZO Vivid straw-yellow. Knockout nose offers an exceptionally wide spectrum of aromas: fresh quince, tangerine, dried apricot, minerals and chamomile, complicated by jasmine, lemon verbena and white stone fruits. Densely packed, utterly seamless and powerful, with slowly building, highly concentrated flavors of underripe pineapple, lime, wet stone and lemon custard. Wonderfully silky and complex, but very backward today, with a laser beam of acidity providing lift and focus. Finishes energetic and extremely long, with repeating lemony minerality. This has all the elements for future greatness and is potentially the best Trebbiano d Abruzzo from Valentini in years MONTEPULCIANO D ABRUZZO 2003 Pepe s 2003 Montepulciano d Abruzzo is a bomb. Tar, leather, scorched earth and black fruit emerge from this dark, imposing Montepulciano. The wine comes together beautifully in the glass, as the aromas and flavors gain breadth and dimension. Despite the rich style, there is nothing excessive or overripe here, just exceptional balance of ripe fruit as captured by a traditional approach to vinification. A final blast of tar informs the long finish. Pepe fans will flip over the 2003, but readers who prefer subtlety over power will want to cellar this for a few years to allow for some of the baby fat to melt away ml $43 ST ml $123 V 96+ GR ml $83 V 94 WS PERFETTO 37 ITALIA

40 ABRUZZO MONTEPULCIANO D ABRUZZO Torre dei Beati Torre dei Beati is located in the Abruzzo region, just east of Rome, along the Adriatic coast. Grown using organic production, the 21 hectares of vines are influenced by the climate of the Apennine Mountains, providing cool nights and a warm wind coming in from the Adriatic during the day. Adriana Galasso and her husband Fausto Albanesi are purists in the vineyard as well as in the cellar. Their goal is to respect nature as well as tradition and to harvest only the very best grapes. The results of this effort are wines with purity that respect their terroir. Cocciapazza ( crazy head in the local Abruzzo dialect) is a point of reference within the Montepulciano d Abruzzo appellation. UMBRIA UMBRIA Lamborghini The Lamborghini estate is located in the heart of Italy between Lake Trasimeno and the village of Panicale in Umbria. The estate s history began in the 1970s when Ferruccio Lamborghini decided to retire from the automobile business and go back to his farming roots by purchasing a 100-hectare property divided between a 9-hole golf course and a 32-hectare viticultural estate located in absolutely idyllic surroundings. His daughter Patrizia currently oversees the 20 hectares of vines and is in the process of modernizing the estate s cellars and vineyards. LAZIO LAZIO Falesco In 1979, brothers Renzo and Riccardo Cotarella brought an abandoned vineyard back to life in the Latium region and thus was born the Falesco estate in Montefiascone. One is the current director of the Antinori house and the other, in addition to being one of the best-reputed consulting oenologists in Italy, continues to direct the estate and its vineyards with mastery. In 1999, the vineyards were expanded and they now extend into the neighbouring region of Umbria. From the very beginning, they focused on the unique character of their indigenous varieties, including Aleatico, Roscetto and Sagrantino, and on the incomparable versatility offered by international varieties such as Merlot, Syrah and Viognier, to name a few. Montiano, the estate s flagship cuvée, shows the skill and know-how brought by the Cotarella family. 86 COCCIAPAZZA 2012 The seductive nose calls to mind blackberries, blueberries, violets and chocolate complemented by accents of wood and spice. The mouthfeel is reasonably fullbodied, fresh and structured. More time will allow it to fully open and gain in definition, but it already has an interesting body, especially for the appellation. Though the region sometimes produces wines with either a rustic character or opulent, modern wines, this one is sophisticated and direct with a perfect balance. 87 CAMPOLEONE 2011 Made from equal parts Sangiovese and Merlot, Campoleone is Lamborghini s flagship wine. Produced from vineyards located inside the Lake Trasimeno region, it spends 12 months maturing in barrels and then a further six months in the bottle. This wine is still at the earliest point of its lifespan, featuring aromas of plum, wet earth, tobacco, roast and spice. Marked by a beautiful freshness, its tannic structure will only become more polished in the coming years. This is an excellent introduction to what Umbria has to offer. 88 MONTIANO 2012 Produced since 1993, Montiano is made entirely from meticulously selected Merlot and is aged for 12 months in French oak barrels. The 2012 vintage features a subtle jammy fruit character, licorice, graphite and black cherry with hints of spice and a light lactic note. Undeniably charming, this wine has spectacular concentration and its tannins provide a welcome freshness. Long and stylish, this vintage is sure to age gracefully. An excellent value! O U R F AV O U RIT E ml $34 ST ml $42 ST ml $40 ST 93 GR PERFETTO 38 ITALIA

41 CAMPANIA TERRE DEL VOLTURNO Alois Having built himself an enviable reputation as a manufacturer of artisan silk, Michele Alois dream of founding his own winemaking estate remained as strong as ever. In 1992, in partnership with the University of Naples, he planted, along with his son Massimo, his first vines on the land where he was born, convinced of the estate s enormous potential. Located at the foot of the Caiatini Hills in the province of Caserta, he planted indigenous varieties, including Aglianico, Casavecchia, Falanghina as well as Pallagrello Bianco and Nero. Their skilful pairing of cutting-edge tech nology and tradition as well as the contribution of renowned consulting oenologist Riccardo Cotarella and a skilled team of workers allows them to produce some truly excellent wines. 89 TREBULANUM 2011 The Trebulanum cuvée from Campania in the Terre del Volturno appellation is made using the local Casavecchia variety. Matured on wood for 18 months, this wine has a surprising aromatic character with notes of cherry, blackcurrant and spice. It has a powerful presence in the mouth with a fruity attack and young tannins that end on a toasted note with a hint of tobacco. A wine with excellent aging potential ml $44 ST PERFETTO 39 ITALIA

42 CAMPANIA FIANO DI AVELLINO Colli di Lapio Q&A WITH Clelia Romano FROM COLLI DI LAPIO What makes the Campania and Irpinia regions so unique and remarkable? Since the Roman era, Campania has been considered a real Grand Cru of wine production. They called the region Campania felix ( happy Campania ) to underline the greatness of the wines coming from this land. The equivalent of modern Burgundy and Bordeaux wines for the Romans was the Campanian Cecubo and Falerno, made from the same varieties used now, Aglianico and Piedirosso. White grapes were also cultivated at the time, including Greco, Falanghina and Fiano, whose name originated from Lapio, the Roman Apianae. The importance of this terroir has been recognized for more than 2,000 years. Campania can be historically considered the first area in Italy to produce quality wines! Can you tell us more about Fiano and Aglianico? These two varieties have a deep history in this region. For a long time, the potential of Aglianico and Fiano was underrated, and from the 1970s until the beginning of the 1990s, a large portion of Aglianico was sold in bulk to add structure to iconic Tuscan wines. You ll perhaps detect peppery notes unusual for an old Sangiovese that would be the Aglianico touch. Fiano and Aglianico s characteristics mean they only produce great wines in specific terroirs: Southwest of Lapio in the province of Avellino s Arianiello region, Colli di Lapio is an emerging estate that is breathing a new wind of dynamism into Campania. Founded in 1994, this family prop erty is well managed by Clelia Romano, her husband Angelo and their children Federico and Carmela. Working in close collaboration with experienced oenologist Angelo Pizzi and agricultural engineer Maurizio Petrillo, the true magic of the Fiano and Aglianico varieties is expressed thanks to the vineyard s location at 500 metres above sea level, which allows the fruit to reach ideal ripeness. Their Fiano di Avellino is one of the most vibrant and pure white wines in the country, and their Taurasi is an authentic and powerful red that is both sophisticated and breathtaking! 90 FIANO DI AVELLINO 2013 The Fiano 2013 is good now, but will be great in the future. It opens slowly to aromas of hay, wildflowers and elegant hints of spice, giving depth to an incisive palate that expands and lengthens, with pervasive flavour and vibrant citrus. Its acidity will stand it in good stead for the future. Italian Wines 2015, Gambero Rosso 1. Volcanic soil : It s not a coincidence that the best Aglianico wines are from old volcanic sites Taurasi, Vesuvio Lacryma Christi, Aglianico del Vulture and Roccamonfina (Terra di Lavoro and other Super Campania wines). Taurasi is called Barolo of the south because of its great aging potential. 2. Altitude : The best Fiano grapes grow 500 to 650 metres above sea level. At this altitude, the cool nights improve the aromatic components of the final product and permit a fairly late harvest for white grapes (second or third week of October), giving the wine good structure, acidity and a typically mineral profile ml $31 GR Is Campania more of a white or red wine region? The percentage is around 50/50, but in terms of DOC/ DOCG wines, we have a prevalence of whites. What wine, region or country inspires you the most, and why? The inspiration for Fiano di Avellino is certainly the Loire; like the Sauvignon from the Loire, the Fiano can offer elegant and vibrant wines with great aging potential. For Taurasi, we prefer to look at great Italian reds from single varieties: Barolo and Barbaresco from Piedmont, and Brunello di Montalcino from Tuscany.

43 CAMPANIA TAURASI CAMPANIA ROCCAMONFINA Galardi Cousins Maria Luisa Murena, Arturo and Dora Celentano, and Francesco Catello joined forces in 1991 to found this estate in northwestern Campania near Latium. The 10-hectare winery is certified organic, growing indigenous varieties, including Aglianico and Piedirosso, along the slopes of the Roccamonfina Volcano at an altitude of 400 metres. Since its founding, the estate has worked closely with Riccardo Cotarella, one of Italy s most renowned oenologists, to produce their unique Terra di Lavoro ( soil of labour ), which is named in homage to the extremely rocky soil where their vines grow. CAMPANIA COLLI DI SALERNO Montevetrano The Montevetrano project became a reality in 1985 following the planting of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Aglianico near Salerno in Campania. Taurasi, the region s emblematic wine, is tradition ally made using Aglianico, but a group of wineloving friends wanted to create a different type of wine heavily influenced by their appreciation of wines from Bordeaux. Their annual production is extremely sought-after and very limited, with only 30,000 bottles made from just five hectares of vines. Silvia Imparato, the estate s owner, claims that even she is impressed by the quality of the wines produced by this long-shot idea, especially since the wines were only supposed to be shared among friends. 91 ANDREA In 2000, a new challenge called Andrea began. It is a Taurasi DOCG wine which follows the qualitative imprint already traced by Fiano. Andrea is a Taurasi produced exclusively from Aglianico grapes, with a ruby red colour, intense smell with scents of morello cherry and wild cherries. It has a smooth taste with well-tapered tannins TERRA DI LAVORO An exotic mélange of tar, smoke, graphite, blackberry jam and savory herbs explode from the glass. The is intense and full-bodied, yet also incredibly elegant. A big, breathtaking wine, the continues to build all the way through to a deeply resonant, expressive finish. I would choose to leave this utterly beguiling Campanian red alone for the better part of a decade, but readers are going to have a very hard time exercising that patience. This is a fabulous effort from proprietors Arturo and Dora Celentano, and their long-time winemaker Riccardo Cotarella COLLI DI SALERNO 2011 Saturated medium-red. Tangy red cherry and raspberry aromas are complicated by expressive musky soil tones and fresh flowers. Sweet, fruity and vibrant, with flavors of red cherry, black pepper and dried flowers complicated by a saline nuance. Finishes very long and brisk, with excellent grip and fine-grained tannins. This is one of the best Montevetrano wines in many years, with really lovely, juicy energy. Perhaps having included a little more Aglianico than usual has helped? A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Aglianico ml $49 WA 94+ (2008 VINTAGE) ml $92 V 97+ GR ml $75 V 93 GR PERFETTO 41 ITALIA

44 PUGLIA GIOIA DEL COLLE Polvanera Polvanera refers to the dark soil that surrounds this relatively new estate founded by Filippo Cassano in Driven by an unshakable desire to show the winemaking world what 60-year-old Primitivo vines could offer, he lovingly restored this aging estate in a rural part of Marchesana. From its 55 hectares of organically tended vines, the estate has completely reinvented the Gioia del Colle appellation with its powerful, heady wines and their remarkable balance and distinct freshness. This is an excellent introduction to the best of Puglia with its exceptional expression of Primitivo that is sure to please lovers of exuberant and gutsy wines. 94 PRIMITIVO 17 VIGNETO MONTEVELLA 2011 Their Primitivos manage to combine alcoholic fullness and firm structure with a surprising freshness and richness of flavour. Yet another big hit from the Gioia del Colle Primitivo 17 Vigneto Montevella 2011, with hints of spice and black berry fruit on the nose and a leisurely, compact palate, which is also pleasingly fresh. Italian Wines 2015, Gambero Rosso ml $34 GR PERFETTO 42 ITALIA

45 SICILIA TERRE SICILIANE COS When the COS (Cilia, Occhipinti, Strano) venture was launched in 1980, the three winemakers were the youngest in Italy. The trio began with only three acres of land, but have now expanded to over 30. Two of the three original members are still working together, and their focus has never wavered from expressing the maximum their terroir has to offer, using the least amount of intervention possible. Precursors of biodynamic agriculture, they innovated with the use of amphoras in the wine making process. The amphoras provide thermal inertia and offer optimal fruit preservation. Their collection is truly impressive and is one of the largest in the world. Running opposite to the gutsy and rough wines produced on the island, this azienda focuses instead on making wines that are elegant and easy drinking. COS is without a doubt a leader of Sicilian winemaking. SICILIA TERRE SICILIANE Passopisciaro Andrea Franchetti left Tenuta di Trinoro in Tuscany to launch his own project in Sicily in Some called him crazy while others thought he was a genius. In love with the region, he settled for nothing less than the northern face of Etna, the most active volcano in Europe. Similar to Barolo and the climate of Burgundy, one of the Passopisciaro estate s particularities is its crus, or contradas. The five distinct vineyards are set in five different former lava fields. His wines benefit from the unique soil and climate conditions, giving them their authenticity and complexity. This region of Sicily, where few dare tread, rewards his bravery with excellence at every vintage. SICILIA TERRE SICILIANE 95 PITHOS BIANCO 2013 Pithos Bianco is a pure expression of Grecanico macerated on its skins for seven months in clay amphorae that are buried underground. To be expected from a white wine that sees extended skin contact, the wine shows a tannic bite and firm supporting structure. The mouthfeel is dry to the point of feeling dusty, with the alcohol registering at a low 10.5% (although it feels warmer). Even if you are not a fan of the orange school of winemaking, there is no denying this wine s profound appeal. 96 GUARDIOLA 2013 Made with 100% Chardonnay, this wine comes from a 4-hectare vineyard sitting at 1,000 metres above sea level on the north face of Mount Etna, in northeastern Sicily. This is a modern wine with pleasant floral and apple aromas, and a subtle hint of petroleum. Buoyed by a fresh acidity, the flavours are long and generous. This wine is the reason that Passopisciaro is one of the leaders in the recent qualitative ascension of Etna wines. 97 TERRE SICILIANE 2012 Very pale crimson. Heady nose of macerated griotte cherries. A hint of orange peel. A warm, pretty alcoholic undertow. Then lots of refreshing acidity and the grainy textural finish of a fine Etna wine. Bone dry and very refreshing though not to be attempted without food. This suggests it could be enjoyed with firm fish. Bring on the Catania market fish restaurant, please! Uncompromisingly true to its origins. Not for neophytes. Quite open on the nose ml $39 WA 95 (2012 VINTAGE) ml $45 ST ml $52 JR PERFETTO 43 ITALIA

46 SICILIA CERASUOLO DI VITTORIA CLASSICO Occhipinti From a young age, Arianna Occhipinti knew that she wanted to make her own wine. Still in her early 30s, she doesn t hesitate to create wines that run opposite to the rugged and sun-drenched wines typically associated with Sicily. Like her uncle Giusto Occhipinti from COS with whom she shares a passion for wine, she has adopted a less interventionist approach to winemaking with no synthetics, preferring to make wines that are easy drinking and elegant. In 2014, following studies in oenology in Milan, she searched Vittoria in southern Sicily for the perfect terroir before making the leap. This talented and brilliant young winemaker believes that a natural approach is not a goal but a means to produce the best possible wines that reflect the terroir. SICILIA SICILIA Palari Located in northern Sicily s Messina Hills, the Palari estate was founded in 1990 by Salvatore Geraci. Their first wines were produced with the help of Piedmont-based oenologist Donato Lanati. The minuscule Faro appellation is located on extremely steep hillside terraces that face neighbouring Calabria. The estate focuses on the production of indigenous varieties, including Nerello Mascalese, Nerello Cappuccio and Nocera, which they use for their wines. With the help of his brother Giampaolo, an agricultural engineer, trained architect Salvatore Geraci directs the property with charm and aplomb. They excel at the production of sophisticated and elegant wines, whose reputation extends well beyond the island where they are produced. SICILIA FARO 98 GROTTE ALTE This flagship wine from the Occhipinti estate comes from the Cerasuolo di Vittoria appellation located in the southeastern region of the island. It is produced from equal shares of Sicilian varieties Frappato and Nero d Avola. Following long maceration and fermentation, the wine is then put into Slovenian oak barrels for 48 months. This seductive wine has plenty of licorice, tarragon and black cherry aromas. It is full-bodied, rich and structured with firm, long tannins and a mineral finish. 99 ROSSO DEL SOPRANO 2011 Remarkable definition and precision in a red that is sure to reconcile everyone in Sicily. Dominated by Nerello Mascalese, it also has Nerello Cappuccio, Nocera and a few other indigenous varieties. Its incomparable freshness serves as the backbone for a magnificent directness, creating an elegant, silky and clean wine. The aromas are plentiful with cherry, chocolate, leather, cooked fruit, plum, cedar and tobacco accompanied by toasted notes. A quality Sicilian offering immediate pleasure and moderate cellaring ability. A true charmer that won over the entire team. 100 FARO 2009 With fruit harvested at the end of September or the beginning of October, the 2009 Faro Palari is firm and static, with solid aromas of dried raspberry, iron, wet earthy [sic] and anisette seed that rise from the glass. This edition of Faro Palari seems to take longer to evolve in the glass, boding well for its future evolution. The 2009 vintage is broad and brawny with a masculine personality. O U R F AV O U RIT E ml $68 ST ml $38 ST 90 GR ml $69 WA GR PERFETTO 44 ITALIA

47 SICILIA ETNA ROSSO Tenuta delle Terre Nere Founded by Marco and Iano de Grazia, this estate is located on the volcanic soil of Mount Etna. Marco is passionate about wine and is an accomplished taster as well as a fervent defender of local Italian varieties. He also previously represented several renowned Italian producers before founding his own estate with his brother Iano. The germ of their concept was that the climate of Etna is the exception that proves the rule in Sicily. Marco prefers to present his wines as being produced in the Burgundy of the Mediterranean. As one of the best winemakers on the planet, he believes that great wines start at the vine and he prefers a non-interventionist approach in the cellar. Critics quickly lauded his wines and dubbed him the Grand Master of local varieties such as Nerello Mascalese. SICILIA MARSALA SUPERIORE ORO Marco de Bartoli This legendary Samperi producer is located in the Marsala region of western Sicily. Marco de Bartoli, a former race car driver, was a pioneer in many regards. He was also an indefatigable defender of Marsala, one of the most underrated wines in the world. In the 1970s, Mr. de Bartoli had had enough of industrially produced wine and decided it was time to take action. Not only did he save authentic Marsala from extinction, he also helped the wine to regain its noble heritage. He has since become a source of inspiration for the entire Marsala region. His children Renato, Sebastiano and Giuseppina are working diligently at the estate to maintain the legacy their father worked so hard to attain before his passing in SARDEGNA ISOLA DEI NURAGHI Argiolas To use the words of Antonio Galloni from the Robert Parker website, Argiolas has accomplished so much, so perfectly that it is hard to decide where to begin! The Argiolas family founded the first Sardinian vineyard and has been growing grapes since The estate s mission is to produce cuvées using only varieties that were historically grown on the island. The man behind the Turriga appellation is none other than Giacomo Tachis, father of the prestigious Super Tuscans Sassicaia, Tignanello and Solaia. Not only is he behind this sublime cru, he also worked hard to expand and make the most of the potential quality the property has to offer. The third generation is at the helm of the estate and they are continuing the traditions established by Antonio Argiolas, who would certainly be proud of the work done by his grandchildren. 101 FEUDO DI MEZZO IL QUADRO DELLE ROSE 2012 A chewy red, with an elegant palate of spiced plum, wild cherry, leather and sweet, aromatic smoke flavors. Lightly juicy and fresh, showing spice and herb accents on the sculpted finish VIGNA LA MICCIA 5 ANNI Rich and expressive, this is just off-dry, with fine cut to the flavors of toffee pudding, toasted walnut, dried apricot, spun honey and fleur de sel. The mouthwatering finish goes on and on TURRIGA The thoroughbred, though, remains the Turriga that even in the vintage very much lived up to expectations. This successful vintage gave one of the most polished versions of recent times. A rich, complex wine, but also subtly elegant thanks to a saline freshness that makes for a lively palate, ushering in an extremely clean, tasty finish. Italian Wines 2015, Gambero Rosso ml $49 WS ml $43 WS ml $65 GR PERFETTO 45 ITALIA