Vinous (94)

Vinous (94)

English critic Matthew Jukes has declared that Lionel's wines are 'worth their weight in gold', and we certainly think that is the case with this Cupano Vino Rosso 4th Edition NV. This is made from a blend of barrels that taste excellent but do not feel ready in time when Cupano blended their Montalcino releases so they were left aside. Instead of waiting to use it for a Brunello that might disrupt the usual annual releases of the estate wines, it has instead become a upmarket 'vin de copains' - wine for friends.

This 4th Edition comes from the 2018 and 2019 vintages and is made from 80% Sangiovese that would normally be used in their Brunello di Montalcino or Rosso di Montalcino and 20% Merlot that would usually be used in their superb Super Tuscan Ombrone. With the power on the nose and palate that Cupano is usually associated with, this shows all the wonderful Sangiovese character one could want without the oak that a young Brunello would show.

For each new Vino Rosso release, famous french artist Gerard Fromanger paints a special new label and this 4th edition is the most impressive yet. While production has been upped from the last release, this 4th Edition is still made in tiny quantities with only 830 six packs made.

The Curto Barolo La Foia 2016 epitomises the quintessential expression of Nebbiolo from the esteemed La Foia vineyard in Barolo’s revered appellation. Nestled in the heart of Piedmont, the La Foia site benefits from optimal terroir, rich in calcareous marl soils and favourable microclimate conditions. Crafted by the esteemed producer Curto, this vintage begins with meticulous selection of hand-harvested Nebbiolo grapes, followed by a traditional fermentation process in a combination of stainless steel and oak vats to preserve its delicate aromatics while integrating subtle complexity. The wine is aged for an impressive 36 months in a blend of large Slavonian oak barrels and fine French barriques, fostering the development of layered flavours and refined tannic structure. On the palate, Curto Barolo La Foia 2016 reveals a harmonious balance of red cherries, truffles, and subtle spice, supported by firm yet velvety tannins and a lingering, elegant finish. The complex bouquet presents a captivating interplay of floral notes, ripe fruit, and earthy undertones, characteristic of exceptional Barolo wines. Ideal for cellaring, this exquisite vintage promises to enchant connoisseurs seeking depth, sophistication, and timeless elegance in every sip.

A gem from the heart of Piedmont, the Curto Barolo La Foia Arborina 2016 expresses eloquent whispers of the region's pedigree. Crafted by enological maestro, Elvio Cogno, from an intimate 3-hectare vineyard, this vintage is an exceptional expression of Nebbiolo. Handpicked at perfect maturation, rigorously selected and macerated for an extended period, it encapsulates the producer's commitment to quality.

Exhibiting a radiant ruby-red hue with nuances of garnet, it releases a bouquet of dried roses, licorice and sweet spices, whilst the palate is greeted with mature fruits, accompanied by velvety tannins. Aged for a period of 24 months in Slovenian oak barrels, and further matured in the bottle, the Curto Barolo La Foia Arborina 2016 demonstrates the exquisite balance of tradition and innovation.

This illustrious wine, with its stirring finish, magnificently conveys the terroir's unique charm and the passionate dedication of its custodians.

An invitation to delight the finest palates, the Curto Barolo La Foia Arborina 2017 is a nebbiolo of impeccable composition. Made by Nadia Curto, a fourth-generation vintner, this opulent wine hails from the Arborina Cru vineyards of Barolo, Italy. Possessing a powerful nose of dark fruit and roses, it graces the palate with red cherry, leather, and a hint of cinnamon. The grapes for Curto Barolo La Foia Arborina 2017 are hand-harvested and undergo traditional fermentation before spending two years ageing in oak barrels. This leaves the wine with a firm structure and velvety tannins that only mature Barolo can offer. An enduring finish ties the experience together, providing a charming balance of intensity and elegance. Perfectly embodying the terroir from which it was born, the Curto Barolo La Foia Arborina 2017 is an exceptional testament to the traditional methods of winemaking carried on in the Curto family.

Experience the sublime palette of intense flavours enveloped in the Curto Barolo La Foia Arborina 2019, a cherished embodiment of authentic Italian winemaking from the esteemed Curto Estate. Located in the revered Barolo region of Piedmont, Italy, this wine displays an exquisite blend of distinct elegance and rich complexities.

Produced by Elide Curto, an artisan winemaker celebrated for her meticulous, eco-friendly vineyard practices, this illustrious Barolo brings together hand-harvested Nebbiolo grapes, nurtured in calcareous marl soils. Each bottle manifests the passionate devotion of its maker, celebrating a refined balance between tradition and innovation.

Boasting profound notes of black cherry, rose, and wild herbs, the Curto Barolo La Foia Arborina 2019 offers a captivating bouquet and a persistent finish. It reveals a majestic structure on the palate, marked by tightly-knit tannins and an invigorating freshness. This is a wine destined to enchant and intrigue the most discerning connoisseur - an unequivocal testament to the artistry of Curto's Barolo making.

From the esteemed cellars of Cusumano winery, the Alta Mora Etna Bianco 2021 promises a journey of layered discovery. This Sicilian white is cultivated on the volcanic soils of Etna's slopes, boasting mineral-rich vineyards that foster vibrant flavours. Made from 100% Carricante grapes, it is fermented in stainless steel tanks to preserve its striking freshness and captivating aromatic complexity. The result is a wine of exceptional character, embodying lively citrus hues, punctuated by floral notes.

On the palate, this Cusumano Alta Mora Etna Bianco 2021 reveals a brilliant balance between acidic sharpness and full-bodied intensity which is an enduring signature of Cusumano's superior winemaking mastery. The intricate bouquets of this wine vigorously exude the natural uniqueness of Etna's terroir, making it an exquisite choice for fine-dining pairing. Immerse yourself in this sensory delight as Cusumano Alta Mora Etna Bianco 2021 elevates even the simplest moments to unforgettable experiences.

The Cusumano Alta Mora Etna Rosato 2022 exemplifies Sicilian excellence in winemaking. Cultivated on the prestigious Alta Mora vineyard on Mount Etna’s fertile slopes, this rosato is crafted from indigenous Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio grapes. Handpicked at optimal ripeness, the grapes undergo gentle pressing followed by fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve their delicate flavours and vibrant acidity. The unique volcanic terroir of Etna imparts subtle mineral undertones, enhancing the wine’s bouquet of fresh red berries and floral notes. A careful ageing process ensures a harmonious balance and a refined, lingering finish. Produced by the esteemed Cusumano family, renowned for their commitment to sustainable viticulture and traditional techniques, the Alta Mora Etna Rosato 2022 reflects their dedication to quality and authenticity. Ideal for pairing with Mediterranean cuisine or enjoying on its own, this exquisite rosato offers a sophisticated expression of Etna’s distinctive character.

Cusumano Alta Mora Etna Rosato 2023 embodies the essence of Sicily's illustrious Etna region. Crafted by the esteemed Cusumano family, this rosé is produced from indigenous Nerello Mascalese and Carricante grapes, meticulously cultivated on the volcanic slopes of Alta Mora. The unique terroir, enriched by mineral-rich volcanic soils, imparts a distinctive minerality and vibrant acidity to the wine. Employing traditional vinification methods, the grapes undergo gentle pressing and fermentation in stainless steel tanks to preserve their delicate aromas and fresh character. The result is a beautifully balanced rosato with enticing notes of red berries, citrus zest, and subtle floral nuances. On the palate, it offers a crisp, elegant finish, showcasing the finesse and craftsmanship of Cusumano. Perfectly suited to complement Mediterranean cuisine, Cusumano Alta Mora Etna Rosato 2023 is a testament to the artistry and passion of fine Italian winemaking.