Vinous - Ian D'Agata (97)

Vivid pale golden-tinged yellow. The mineral-driven, perfumed nose boasts intense aromas of fresh pear, Golden Delicious apple, lime peel and jasmine, with a mineral overtone. Racy, fragrant, sharply focused fresh citrus and orchard fruit flavors are powerful and penetrating, but show no excess weight. The 2015 Grande Cuvée I Primo gains sweetness and a gingery nuance with air while maintaining noteworthy tension and remarkable clarity and cut. The strikingly pure, laser-like and extremely long finish shows superb energy with nuances of powdered minerals and lemony zing lingering nicely. An outstanding, truly beautiful wine from Terlano, that is one of this year’s best white wines from Italy.

Vinous (96)

The 2017 Terlaner Grande Cuvée Primo is rich and seductive from the first tilt of the glass. It displays a mix of roasted hazelnut, baked apple and dried peaches, as it gains further complexities through evolving notes of smoky minerals, chamomile and hints of honeysuckle. The textural depths on the palate are otherworldly, seemingly weighty yet precise, enveloping all it touches in velvety waves of ripe stone fruits and sweet spice, as juicy acids sneak in, both framing and balancing the wine. The finish is remarkably long yet fresh, teeming with energy while also showing hints of vanilla and toasty oak. The Terlano wines have a track record for evolving beautifully in the cellar. That said, the 2017 does show a warmer vintage character, yet all of the elements are here to carry it for another fifteen to twenty years. It's a blend of Pinot Bianco 70%, Chardonnay 27% and Sauvignon Blanc 3%...Wow!

James Suckling (97)

The Alps and the Mediterranean meet in a glass! Mountain freshness (think wild herbs) and bright fruit (think Amalfi lemon) come together in a wine that marries a stack of fine tannins with wet-stone minerality on the the tightly wound palate. Make no mistake, this has been built for very long aging, so decant to aerate, if you drink it any time soon. Breathtaking energy at the very long finish. Drink or hold.

Vinous (96)

The 2020 Terlaner Grande Cuvée Primo entrances with a delicate mix of dusty stone, freshly spiced pear, white flowers and crushed raw almonds. This is elegance personified, silky yet buoyant. Enriching hints of hazelnut custard enhance the notes of young peach as a staining of minerality amasses toward the close. The Primo finishes dramatically long yet youthfully tense, leaving a saturation of primary fruit to resonate beneath a flourish of citrus-tinged florals. The word “wow” does not do this justice. The 2020 is just a baby today. Is it Grande Cuvée or Grand Cru? Either way, it’s fantastic.

Vinous (90)

A bouquet of smoky crushed stone, exotic florals, honeydew and hints of sweet smoke make the 2021 Terlaner Cuvée impossible to ignore. It’s silky and pliant, with zesty acidity motivating its tart orchard fruits, as savory spices penetrate deeply. This leaves the palate saturated in primary concentration, adding a youthful tension; however, the mouth is left watering for another sip. The perfumed finale seals the deal on this high-energy Terlaner Cuvée. This is a blend of 60% Pinot Bianco, 30% Chardonnay and 10% Sauvignon Blanc.

Vinous (90)

A bouquet of smoky crushed stone, exotic florals, honeydew and hints of sweet smoke make the 2021 Terlaner Cuvée impossible to ignore. It’s silky and pliant, with zesty acidity motivating its tart orchard fruits, as savory spices penetrate deeply. This leaves the palate saturated in primary concentration, adding a youthful tension; however, the mouth is left watering for another sip. The perfumed finale seals the deal on this high-energy Terlaner Cuvée. This is a blend of 60% Pinot Bianco, 30% Chardonnay and 10% Sauvignon Blanc.

Immerse yourself in the exquisite allure of the Tormaresca Chardonnay 2021. Cultivated in the sun-kissed vineyards of Puglia, Italy, this elegant vintage is a true representation of the rich, diverse soils and exceptional Adriatic climate that characterises Antinori family's Tormaresca estate. The Chardonnay grapes are vinified separately, fermented in stainless steel tanks, and aged on fine lees for several months, ensuring a crisp, fleshed-out palate encapsulating layered nuances of toasted almonds, ripe fruits, and delicate blooms.

The Tormaresca Chardonnay 2021 is a superb wine offering sumptuousness and vibrancy in every sip. Its finely balanced acidity and expressive characteristics make it not just an excellent companion to a plethora of dishes but also a captivating standalone indulgence. Irresistibly sophisticated, this wine truly exemplifies Tormaresca's exceptional blend of tradition, innovation, and impassioned winemaking.

Dive into the depth of Southern Italy's tremendous viticulture with the Tormaresca Pietrabianca 2018. Produced by the Tormaresca estate set in Puglia, the wine is a compelling embodiment of Italy's indigenous grapes. This fine varietal demonstrates a skilful blend of Chardonnay and Fiano, intriguingly aged in both stainless steel and French oak. The result is a wine of superb balance marked by apricot nuances layered with a hint of sweet vanilla, and refined almond tones contributing to an elegant, long-lasting finish.

Tormaresca is renowned for its innovation that respects tradition, a philosophy imparted by the famed Antinori family. The 2018 Tormaresca Pietrabianca reflects this beautifully, expressing the quintessence of Puglia's terroir, mediterranean heritage, and 6,000-year-old winemaking savoir-faire. With bottle ageing potential until 2024, each sip of the Tormaresca Pietrabianca 2018 lets you savour the refined artistry of one Italy's foremost winemaking regions.

Wine Advocate (96+)

As the saying goes, good things come in small packages. The Cantina Tramin 2017 Alto Adige Gewürztraminer Vendemmia Tardiva Terminum is made with late-harvest fruit. The wine is packaged in a 375-milliliter bottle and only 4,200 bottles exist. The barrique-aged wine opens to a dark golden color with amber and copper highlights. It would be impossible to exaggerate the intensity of the honey, dried apricot and candied fruit aromas that rise from the bouquet. The one-hectare vineyard is located at a high 450 meters above sea level. The fruit is left to dry on the vines, and only when Botrytis cinerea (or the so-called "noble rot") appears are the grapes ready for harvest. The botrytis serves to safeguard the grape's natural acidity, and it shapes the high-toned and lifted aromas of the bouquet. This wine is simply gorgeous.

James Suckling (94)

Wonderful nose of yellow roses, fresh pineapple and jasmine, with delicately spicy overtones. Stunning ripeness and concentration, but even more importantly, almost impeccable balance for a grape variety that’s a winemaker’s nightmare. Very long, silky finish, where the 15% alcohol is barely perceptible. Drink or hold.

Discover the aromatic and intense Umani Ronchi Casal Serra Verdicchio Classico Superiore 2022. This exquisite wine is born in the fertile heartland of Italy's Marche region, meticulously hand-crafted by the esteemed Umani Ronchi estate. Marrying traditional vinification techniques with modern insight, the Verdicchio grapes are handpicked, immediately cooled to retain their vibrant freshness, fermented in steel tanks, and aged in bottle before release to enhance the wine's complexity.

This elegant Verdicchio Classico Superiore whispers of ripe golden apples, wildflowers, almonds, and a subtle saline note that pays homage to the nearby Adriatic Sea. Characterised by its balanced acidity and persistent finish, the Umani Ronchi Casal Serra Verdicchio Classico Superiore 2022 showcases the pinnacle of white wine, offering both depth and drinkability, perfect for any occasion or cuisine.

Promising an unforgettable tasting experience, this symbolic representation of the Umani Ronchi legacy is sure to impress even the most discerning of palates.

The Umani Ronchi Verdicchio Castelli Jesi Classico Casal Serra Vecchie Vigne Superiore 2021 is a masterwork, meticulously crafted by a venerated Italian producer, Umani Ronchi. Born in the distinguished Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico region, this Verdicchio evokes the mineral-rich terroir of its birthplace. Sourced from old vines, a sure sign of a vine's potential to produce exceptional grapes, the wine boasts a superior quality.

Incomparable care is taken in its production using sustainable farming practices, honouring Umani Ronchi's commitment to the environment. This vintage has an indulgent profile. Intense with invigorating acidity, it features notes of citrus, green apple, and jasmine, with a pleasing minerality. Expect a long and persistent finish, making it an unparalleled choice to accompany fish dishes. For connaisseurs seeking an expressive representation of the Verdicchio variety, the Umani Ronchi Verdicchio Castelli Jesi Classico Casal Serra Vecchie Vigne Superiore 2021 does not disappoint.

Vinous (92+)

Bright, pale yellow. Deep but still closed nose hints at lemon, green apple and crushed stone, with a distinctly herbal element. Then broader in the mouth but high in acid, dry and not yet filled in, only hinting at the intensely concentrated lemon, chlorophyll, quince and honeyed stone fruit flavors. Finishes with wonderful purity and outstanding length. More backward and minerally than just about any other Italian white wine at a similar stage of development: I suggest cellaring this for a couple of years, then enjoying it for a decade after that.

A delight for connoisseurs, Valentini Trebbiano d'Abruzzo 2016 hails from the esteemed Valentini winery in Italy's Abruzzo region. As one of Italy's most splendid whites, this wine seals the legacy of master vigneron, Edoardo Valentini, with restrained grace and discernible grandeur. Crafted from the local Trebbiano Abruzzese grape, meticulous traditional methods were employed in its creation.

In Valentini's practice, only the most pristine bunches are selected, with subsequent rigorous sorting to permit only superior fruit. Following a gentle pressing, fermentation ensues in large old barrels, accentuating the wine’s intricate and enduring flavours. Characteristic brilliance in straw-yellow hues transports one instantly to sun-soaked Italian hillsides. It releases a bouquet of pear, white spring flowers and handful of toasted nuts. On the palate, it unrolls with perfect harmony, offering a remarkable complexity of mature fruit, with a mineral underpinning and a lasting finish.

Savour the iconic Valentini Trebbiano d'Abruzzo 2016 and step into a tasteful legacy of Italian wine mastery.

Outstandingly exquisite and stunningly rare, Valentini Trebbiano d'Abruzzo 2017 is a hallmark in the world of fine wines. Originating in Italy's esteemed Abruzzo region, it reflects meticulous winemaking by Edoardo Valentini, epitomising the best of Trebbiano varietal. The vineyards adopt organic farming and a rigorous grape selection process, ensuring the finest produce. Aged in Slavonian oak barrels, it develops a complex array of flavours. The wine's unique character offers a medley of ripe fruits, wild flowers, nutty overlays, and hints of honey, on a backdrop of well-judged oak.

Harmonious, full-bodied, and rich, each sip of Valentini Trebbiano d'Abruzzo 2017 compels a cascade of lasting impressions. Structured and seamless, it displays a graceful persistence on the palate, leading to a thoroughly rewarding finish. The Valentini Trebbiano d’Abruzzo 2017 is a testament to superlative wine-making, offering a magnificent tribute to Edoardo Valentini's legacy.

A testament to winemaking prestige, Valentini Trebbiano d'Abruzzo 2019 epitomises artisanal excellence. Originating in the mountainous Abruzzo region in central Italy, this extraordinary wine is produced from vines grown on lands rich in clay and limestone that aptly nurture the indigenous Trebbiano grapes. The Valentini family’s heritage of timeless tradition is evident in the fiercely manual process utilised, from harvesting to decanting.

The wine showcases a remarkable balance of fruity notes and fresh acidity, with the 2019 vintage particularly expressing distinct nuances of citrus and almond. Intense and complex, this amber nectar resonates with a captivating mineral finish that demonstrates the impeccable quality of this hand-crafted masterpiece. Valentini Trebbiano d'Abruzzo 2019 is not simply a wine, but a delectable epitome of Italy's historical vineyard legacy – a worthy addition to the collection of any discerning oenophile.

A testament to winemaking prestige, Valentini Trebbiano d'Abruzzo 2019 epitomises artisanal excellence. Originating in the mountainous Abruzzo region in central Italy, this extraordinary wine is produced from vines grown on lands rich in clay and limestone that aptly nurture the indigenous Trebbiano grapes. The Valentini family’s heritage of timeless tradition is evident in the fiercely manual process utilised, from harvesting to decanting.

The wine showcases a remarkable balance of fruity notes and fresh acidity, with the 2019 vintage particularly expressing distinct nuances of citrus and almond. Intense and complex, this amber nectar resonates with a captivating mineral finish that demonstrates the impeccable quality of this hand-crafted masterpiece. Valentini Trebbiano d'Abruzzo 2019 is not simply a wine, but a delectable epitome of Italy's historical vineyard legacy – a worthy addition to the collection of any discerning oenophile.

Emanating from Italy's Adriatic coast, the Valentini Trebbiano d'Abruzzo 2020 is an exquisite testament to winemaking mastery. Manufactured by the revered Edoardo Valentini, this vintage is produced with artisanal care from 100% Trebbiano grapes - harvested manually and selected to meet exacting standards. The vinification process involves slow, natural fermentation and maturation in large Slavonian oak barrels, fostering a final product that encapsulates the uniqueness of the Abruzzo terroir.

The Valentini Trebbiano d'Abruzzo 2020 is undeniably exceptional - graced by a golden hue, the multifaceted bouquet unfolds notes of citrus fruits, medlar, and aromatic herbs. A balanced selection, the wine showcases a vibrant acidity paired harmoniously with a delicate mineral trace. Layered and complex, it offers a long and memorable finish that eloquently echoes its aromatic profile. This wine is a testament to Valentini's dedication to quality, transforming the humble Trebbiano grape into a wine befitting of the finest cellars.

Crafting a true masterpiece, the Venissa Bianco 2015 hails from the Venetian lagoon's storied vineyards on the island of Mazzorbo. This ethereal offering, meticulously produced by the prestigious Bisol family, elegantly embodies the unique terroir of its origins.

The Venissa Bianco 2015 captivates with its rarity and exclusivity, being crafted entirely of the ancient and near-extinct Dorona grape, with only 4000 bottles produced. Employing traditional winemaking techniques, this wine rested for two years in ancient clay amphorae and cement tanks before meeting the world.

Expressing a golden hue, this wine dazzles your senses with complex aromas of honey, nuts, and tropical fruits, balanced beautifully by a savoury minerality. The palate is rich and seductive, drawn out in a long, thought-provoking finish. An enchanting exemplification of Venissian mastery, the Venissa Bianco 2015 pairs perfectly with fine Mediterranean cuisine, while offering vibrant cellaring potential.

Unquestionably, the Venissa Bianco 2015 is a resplendent embodiment of Dorona's indomitable spirit and Bisol's heritage-driven passion.