Wine Advocate (94)

Regarded as a true connoisseur's delight, the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 divine embodiment of Italian sophistication. This fine red wine, crafted by the revered vintner, Azelia, originates from vineyards in the Barolo region, particularly the Voghera Brea district. The vintner's commitment to traditional vinification processes and respect for the terroir shines through their Riserva wines. The grapes for the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 were handpicked in the autumn, then subjected to a lengthy fermentation and maceration, resulting in a wine of sublimely nuanced complexity. Each glass tantalises with vivid essences of ripe red fruit, subtly mingling with notes of liquorice and spice. This wine elegantly unfolds over time, offering a profound, lingering finish. With an impressive ageing potential, the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 exemplifies the time-honoured skill of its producer, a true testament to the commanding grandeur of Barolo wines.

Regarded as a true connoisseur's delight, the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 divine embodiment of Italian sophistication. This fine red wine, crafted by the revered vintner, Azelia, originates from vineyards in the Barolo region, particularly the Voghera Brea district. The vintner's commitment to traditional vinification processes and respect for the terroir shines through their Riserva wines. The grapes for the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 were handpicked in the autumn, then subjected to a lengthy fermentation and maceration, resulting in a wine of sublimely nuanced complexity. Each glass tantalises with vivid essences of ripe red fruit, subtly mingling with notes of liquorice and spice. This wine elegantly unfolds over time, offering a profound, lingering finish. With an impressive ageing potential, the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 exemplifies the time-honoured skill of its producer, a true testament to the commanding grandeur of Barolo wines.

Regarded as a true connoisseur's delight, the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 divine embodiment of Italian sophistication. This fine red wine, crafted by the revered vintner, Azelia, originates from vineyards in the Barolo region, particularly the Voghera Brea district. The vintner's commitment to traditional vinification processes and respect for the terroir shines through their Riserva wines. The grapes for the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 were handpicked in the autumn, then subjected to a lengthy fermentation and maceration, resulting in a wine of sublimely nuanced complexity. Each glass tantalises with vivid essences of ripe red fruit, subtly mingling with notes of liquorice and spice. This wine elegantly unfolds over time, offering a profound, lingering finish. With an impressive ageing potential, the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2010 exemplifies the time-honoured skill of its producer, a true testament to the commanding grandeur of Barolo wines.

The Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2013 is an exquisite embodiment of luxury and refinement. Crafted in the heart of Piemonte region in Italy, this majestic fine wine emanates from the gifted hands of the Scavino family. Renowned for their limited production, they dedicate their passion to creating the most superior wines, setting incomparable standards.

This 2013 vintage demonstrates perfect synthesis of richness in flavour and depth, offering exuberant aromas of dried roses, truffles and dark, delicate fruits. The complexities speak volumes of the meticulous Nebbiolo grapes fermentation process, further aged in large, oversized Slavonian oak barrels for 42 months. The result is a wine shimmering with intense garnet hues, marrying bright acidity with formidable tannins.

Thoughtfully structured and seeping with inimitable grandeur, the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2013 is not just a wine, it’s a profound narrative of tradition and superior winemaking prowess. An unforgettable experience for discerning connoisseurs worldwide, this wine stands as a flagship of its category.

The Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2013 is an exquisite embodiment of luxury and refinement. Crafted in the heart of Piemonte region in Italy, this majestic fine wine emanates from the gifted hands of the Scavino family. Renowned for their limited production, they dedicate their passion to creating the most superior wines, setting incomparable standards.

This 2013 vintage demonstrates perfect synthesis of richness in flavour and depth, offering exuberant aromas of dried roses, truffles and dark, delicate fruits. The complexities speak volumes of the meticulous Nebbiolo grapes fermentation process, further aged in large, oversized Slavonian oak barrels for 42 months. The result is a wine shimmering with intense garnet hues, marrying bright acidity with formidable tannins.

Thoughtfully structured and seeping with inimitable grandeur, the Azelia Barolo Voghera Brea Riserva 2013 is not just a wine, it’s a profound narrative of tradition and superior winemaking prowess. An unforgettable experience for discerning connoisseurs worldwide, this wine stands as a flagship of its category.

Azienda Agricola Bricco Ernesto Vino Rosso 2019 epitomises the excellence of Italian viticulture. Crafted in the heart of Tuscany, this distinguished red wine is the result of meticulous hand-harvesting of indigenous Sangiovese and Merlot grapes grown on the estate’s diverse terroir. The 2019 vintage underwent a precise fermentation process in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, preserving its vibrant fruit character and nuanced complexity. Aging for 18 months in French oak barrels bestows the wine with elegant tannins and a refined structure, while imparting subtle hints of vanilla and spice. Bricco Ernesto, renowned for their commitment to sustainable farming practices, ensures each bottle reflects their passion for quality and tradition. On the palate, Azienda Agricola Bricco Ernesto Vino Rosso 2019 reveals layers of dark cherry, plum, and a touch of earthiness, culminating in a long, harmonious finish. This exceptional wine pairs beautifully with mature cheeses, grilled meats, and hearty Italian dishes, making it a quintessential choice for connoisseurs.

Azienda Agricola Bricco Ernesto Vino Rosso 2019 epitomises the excellence of Italian viticulture. Crafted in the heart of Tuscany, this distinguished red wine is the result of meticulous hand-harvesting of indigenous Sangiovese and Merlot grapes grown on the estate’s diverse terroir. The 2019 vintage underwent a precise fermentation process in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, preserving its vibrant fruit character and nuanced complexity. Aging for 18 months in French oak barrels bestows the wine with elegant tannins and a refined structure, while imparting subtle hints of vanilla and spice. Bricco Ernesto, renowned for their commitment to sustainable farming practices, ensures each bottle reflects their passion for quality and tradition. On the palate, Azienda Agricola Bricco Ernesto Vino Rosso 2019 reveals layers of dark cherry, plum, and a touch of earthiness, culminating in a long, harmonious finish. This exceptional wine pairs beautifully with mature cheeses, grilled meats, and hearty Italian dishes, making it a quintessential choice for connoisseurs.

Boasting extraordinary craftsmanship, Azienda Agricola Bricco Ernesto Vino Rosso 2020 is a masterful representation of Italian winemaking tradition. Hailing from the prestigious regions of Barbera and Dolcetto, this exceptional red wine embodies a meticulous blend of elegance and character. The reputable producer, Bricco Ernesto, employs traditional methods, maintaining low yields, and manual harvests to ensure optimal fruit quality.

Using carefully selected grapes grown on steep marly-calcareous soils, the Vino Rosso 2020 breathes life into the glass, capturing the essence of its striking Piedmontese terroir. This splendid wine is aged for a year in French oak barrels to acquire its full-bodied complexity and smooth, velvety finish.

Each sip offers a harmonious motley of dark berry fruits, hints of spice, and subtle undertones of earthy chocolate, creating a prolonged aromatic persistence that invites slow savouring of the Azienda Agricola Bricco Ernesto Vino Rosso 2020. A significant contender in the world of fine wine, leaving an indelible impression on the palate.

Boasting extraordinary craftsmanship, Azienda Agricola Bricco Ernesto Vino Rosso 2020 is a masterful representation of Italian winemaking tradition. Hailing from the prestigious regions of Barbera and Dolcetto, this exceptional red wine embodies a meticulous blend of elegance and character. The reputable producer, Bricco Ernesto, employs traditional methods, maintaining low yields, and manual harvests to ensure optimal fruit quality.

Using carefully selected grapes grown on steep marly-calcareous soils, the Vino Rosso 2020 breathes life into the glass, capturing the essence of its striking Piedmontese terroir. This splendid wine is aged for a year in French oak barrels to acquire its full-bodied complexity and smooth, velvety finish.

Each sip offers a harmonious motley of dark berry fruits, hints of spice, and subtle undertones of earthy chocolate, creating a prolonged aromatic persistence that invites slow savouring of the Azienda Agricola Bricco Ernesto Vino Rosso 2020. A significant contender in the world of fine wine, leaving an indelible impression on the palate.

Showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of winemaker Luigi Scavino, the Azienda Agricola LaLu Langhe Nebbiolo 2019 is a true testament to Piedmontese viticulture. Famed for producing world-class Italian wines, Scavino meticulously crafts this Nebbiolo from vines grown on the steep hills of Langhe region. The 2019 vintage boldly radiates the vineyard's unique terroir through its ruby tint and elegant tannins.

Grapes are harvested by hand, ensuring ripe, flawless berries. Fermentation and maturation occur in stainless steel vats to preserve Nebbiolo's natural aromas and flavours. Dancing on the palate are luscious notes of red cherries, plums, and floral hints, beautifully balanced by a mineral undertone. With its moderate alcohol content, it pairs brilliantly with robust, savoury dishes.

The Azienda Agricola LaLu Langhe Nebbiolo 2019 is an embodiment of Scavino's dedication and passion, offering an unforgettably opulent drinking experience that lingers in both memory and palate.

The Azienda Agricola LaLu Langhe Nebbiolo 2020 exemplifies the quintessential expression of Nebbiolo from the esteemed Langhe region. Cultivated in meticulously maintained vineyards, each grape benefits from optimal sun exposure and well-drained soils, essential for developing the varietal’s signature complexity. Hand-harvested with utmost care, the grapes undergo a gentle fermentation process in stainless steel tanks, preserving the delicate aromatic profile. Subsequent ageing takes place in French oak barrels for 12 months, imparting subtle nuances of cedar and spice while maintaining the wine’s vibrant acidity and structured tannins. The 2020 vintage reveals a captivating bouquet of rose petals, cherry, and earthy undertones, leading to a palate of refined elegance and persistent finish. Produced by the esteemed Azienda Agricola LaLu, renowned for their dedication to sustainable viticulture and artisanal winemaking, this Langhe Nebbiolo is a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality. Ideal for pairing with hearty Italian fare, it promises an exquisite sensory experience.

From the renowned wine region of Langhe in Piedmont, Italy, comes the Azienda Agricola LaLu Langhe Nebbiolo 2022 - a red that mesmerises with its complexity. An expert product from this respected wine producer, it's crafted exclusively from Nebbiolo grapes, hand-picked at optimal maturity to produce an alluring expression of this illustrious terroir. The 2022 vintage invites you on a sensory journey, enthusing the palate with hints of red fruits, spices, and carnations, layered with a touch of rose. The two-week fermentation in stainless steel vats followed by 14 months barrel-ageing leaves an elegant tannic structure and pronounced acidity, making it a distinctive wine of noteworthy persistence. A testament to Azienda Agricola LaLu's passion for excellence, the Langhe Nebbiolo 2022 is a sublime embodiment of the best Italian viticulture. Savour this exquisite wine now or allow it to evolve over the next five to ten years, heightening the enjoyment of fine wine lovers worldwide.

Behold the Azienda Agricola Stella Giuseppe Barbera d'Asti Giaiet Superiore 2017, a sublime example of Italian winemaking virtuosity. Nestled in the piemonte hills, Azienda Agricola Stella Giuseppe, a family owned vineyard, prides itself in using traditional methods to cultivate high-quality Barbera grapes. This iconic 2017 vintage basks in the balance between vibrant fresh fruit flavours and a firm structure synonymous with the world-renowned 'Barbera d'Asti'. The uniqueness of this wine lies in the 18 months it spends in oak barrels, punctuating its profile with refined tannins and complex, spicy undertones. With a ruby red hue, the nose is presented with notes of ripe cherry, vanilla and clove, leading to a palate of sumptuous depth and lengthened finish. The Azienda Agricola Stella Giuseppe Barbera d'Asti Giaiet Superiore 2017 is a testament to the distinctiveness of Piemonte's cultivation, embodying the heart and soul of exceptional Italian wine craft.

Delight your palate with the Azienda Agricola Stella Giuseppe Barbera d'Asti Superiore Il Maestro 2017, a well-rounded wine hailing from Italy's prized Piedmont region. As an expert fine wine connoisseur would testify, Stella Giuseppe's winemaking pedigree is significantly showcased in this superior Barbera d'Asti. Following meticulous manual selection, the grapes are macerated for roughly two weeks, with malolactic fermentation and ageing in wooden barrels lending the wine its signature complexity and richness.

When poured, it exudes an intense ruby red hue, hinting at its robust structure. The taste perfectly balances a pronounced acidity with flavours of red fruits, subtle hints of vanilla, and a persistent finish. Truly, the Azienda Agricola Stella Giuseppe Barbera d'Asti Superiore Il Maestro 2017 aptly represents the robust integrity of this venerated Italian varietal duet from an esteemed producer. A quintessential addition to any serious wine collection.

The Azienda Agricola Stella Giuseppe Barbera d'Asti Superiore Il Maestro 2018 is a distinguished, full bodied Italian wine hailing from the renowned Piedmont region. This highly regarded family-run estate meticulously cultivates its Nebbiolo, Moscato, and, of course, Barbera varietals on meticulously cared-for vineyards. Passion and tradition go hand in hand in the winemaking process, yielding a Barbera d'Asti that is persistently memorable, akin to the Maestro it is named after.

Careful, handpicked selection, traditional vinification, and 12 months of maturation in Slavonian oak barrels enhance the wine's intense fragrance of red fruit, with a slight hint of spice. On the palate, it exhibits harmonious balance between acidity and tannins, illustrating the masterful art of wine refinement it stands for. The Azienda Agricola Stella Giuseppe Barbera d'Asti Superiore Il Maestro 2018 epitomises the sublime elegance of its origin, making it a distinctive choice for the discerning wine connoisseur.

From the esteemed Italian region of Piedmont, the Baldin Bramaterra 2015 is a delightful expression of the vineyard's commitment to excellence. This complex red wine captures the essence of Nebbiolo (80%), Croatina (10%), Vespolina, and Uva Rara grapes, all meticulously harvested from the mineral-rich soils of northern Italy. The Baldin Bramaterra 2015 is aged for 36 months in large oak casks; a process that builds its splendid, elegant structure and impeccable balance. Tasting notes describe a nose of wild berries and spices, rounded off with distinct hints of dry rose. On the palate, it's smooth yet firm, with finely integrated tannins—a testament to its astute artisanal craftsmanship. Baldin, the producer, is renowned for their commitment to sustainable practices and assiduous attention to detail, providing a sublime quality that consistently meets the expectation of discerning wine enthusiasts. Experience the Baldin Bramaterra 2015, a wine that perfectly encapsulates the vibrant intensity of traditional Italian viticulture.

Introducing Balia Zola Balitore Sangiovese Romagna 2015, a unique embodiment of Italian viticulture at its finest. Produced in the heart of the picturesque Romagna region, this hearty red combines tradition and innovation seamlessly, imparting an exclusive tasting experience. Each bottle captures the sun-soaked, rolling hills of this prolific winegrowing region.

Balia Zola, the prestigious vineyard behind this vintage, has perfected their craft over many generations. This 2015 Sangiovese Romagna is the fruit of meticulous harvesting, fermenting in steel at a controlled temperature, maintaining the grape’s integrity. The wine undergoes a malolactic fermentation before refinement in tonneaux barrels, granting it a sophisticated finish.

Adorned with bold cherry and prune undertones, Balia Zola Balitore Sangiovese Romagna 2015 enthralls the palate with a delightful balance of acidity and tannin. Its aromatic intensity and persistent finish make it a stellar partner to robust regional dishes, revealing the true Italian enogastronomy.

From the rolling Romagna hills in Italy, the Balia Zola Balitore Sangiovese Romagna 2019 is a sensual delight for the discerning palate. This exclusive red wine is an extraordinary produce of Balia Zola, renowned for their adherence to traditional viticulture methods. The Balitore Sangiovese Romagna is made predominantly from Sangiovese grapes, harvested meticulously by hand to ensure the highest quality.

The 2019 vintage is a particularly exceptional year, delivering a wine of remarkable structure and longevity. Matured in French oak barrels, the Balia Zola Balitore Sangiovese Romagna 2019 boasts an intricate flavour profile with notes of ripe red fruits, tobacco, and spice. Its alluring aroma, harmonising beautifully with the full-bodied flavour, bears testament to the careful winemaking process.

The Balia Zola Balitore Sangiovese Romagna 2019 is a testament to outstanding Italian wine craftsmanship, offering a drinking experience that marries classical technique with modern elegance. A sublime choice for fine wine connoisseurs.

Distinguished for its eminent finesse, the Balia Zola Isola Ravenna Chardonnay 2019 is an articulate expression of Italian winemaking tradition. Produced in the heartland of Italy's famed Romagna region, Ravenna, this vibrant and sophisticated white wine bears the hallmark of meticulous viticulture and innovative winery practices. Modern and classic techniques blend seamlessly at Balia Zola, where each grape is hand-picked at the peak of ripeness.

Under the skilled hand of the producer, a focused fermentation process ensues, yielding a balanced, elegant Chardonnay. The palate presents a bouquet of floral and fruity notes with a hint of crisp apple. A refined minerality traces the wine's origins back to the fertile, calcareous soils along the Adriatic Sea. With a medium body and bright acidity, the Balia Zola Isola Ravenna Chardonnay 2019 is an exceptional choice for any discerning oenophile, a testament to the winery's unwavering commitment to stellar craftsmanship.

From the prestigious Italian vineyards of Balia Zola comes the impeccable Redinoce Sangiovese Romagna 2012. This distinguished vintage is a testament to the sublime artistry of winemaking in Romagna, a region celebrated for its viticultural heritage. Meticulously cultivated in nutrient-rich soil and nurtured under the Mediterranean sun, Balia Zola Redinoce Sangiovese Romagna 2012 reveals a truly harmonious expression of terroir.

The wine encapsulates the meticulous care that Balia Zola invests in crafting each bottle. Possessing a rich, ruby hue, its bouquet sings with aromatic notes of ripe cherries, plum, and savoury spices. A crescendo of bold, full-bodied flavours envelops the palate, harmoniously balanced by supple tannins. Completing this sensory experience is a long, smooth finish that exudes sophistication.

Whether to complement gourmet cuisine or sipped in quiet contemplation, Balia Zola Redinoce Sangiovese Romagna 2012 encapsulates the epitome of fine Italian winemaking, catering to the most discerning palates.

Emanating from the exquisite vineyards of Romagna, the Balia Zola Redinoce Sangiovese Romagna 2017 is a truly exceptional selection. Cultivated by the esteemed Balia Zola, a vineyard renowned for its attention to detail and dedication to the tradition of winemaking, this splendid vintage sings with the heart of Italy. A classic expression of Sangiovese, it embraces the character of its terroir.

The wine is fermented and aged meticulously, respecting the unique characteristics of the Sangiovese grape. With a deep ruby hue, the wine exhibits an alluring composition of bright cherry and red berry aromas, coupled with captivating earthy undertones and delicate tannins. On the palate, it bursts with an intricate layering of flavours, from energising fruit undertones to an elegant, lingering finish.

The Balia Zola Redinoce Sangiovese Romagna 2017 is an unmissable treasure for collectors and oenophiles, a testament to the superior quality and craft of traditional Romagna winemaking.

James Suckling (95)