James Suckling (97)

James Suckling (94-95)

Vinous (96)

James Suckling (96)

Hailing from Sardinia's foremost producers, the Argiolas Cannonau di Sardegna Costera 2019 eloquently encapsulates the heart of Mediterranean winemaking. With over a century of viticultural prowess, Argiolas expertly utilises indigenous Cannonau grapes to produce this sumptuous ruby-red expression. Ageing for 8-10 months in French oak barrels imparts depth and complexity, while gentle sea breezes and abundant sunshine underscore its inherent vitality.

On the nose, expect a robust bouquet of ripe, black cherries, wild berries, and subtle nuances of Mediterranean herbs. This is followed by the rich palate brimming with intense fruit flavours perfectly counterbalanced by notable tannins and harmonious acidity. The climax is an enduring, vanilla-tinged finish.

The Argiolas Cannonau di Sardegna Costera 2019 reflects an unerring commitment to quality, audaciously embodying the indomitable spirit and robust flavours of its native terroir, which makes it a sterling choice for every discerning connoisseur.

Emanating from the verdant landscapes of Sardinia, the Argiolas Isola Nuraghi Korem 2018 is a remarkable Italian red wine offering an unparalleled oenological experience. This sublime blend of Bovale, Carignano, and Cannonau grapes, meticulously crafted by the renowned Argiolas family, undergoes fermentation in stainless steel tanks before maturing gracefully in French oak barrels.

Boasting an engagingly deep ruby hue, Korem delivers an intense and complex palette. Scents of wild berries and sour cherries infuse the air, underlain with a rich nuance of balsamic hints and sweet spices. On the palate, it enraptures with considerable harmony and elegance, a softness that belies the firm structure and well-balanced acidity. Trailing off, the Korem leaves a persistent, spicy hint that beckons a second taste.

Savour the Argiolas Isola Nuraghi Korem 2018 at leisure, perfectly matched with flavoursome dishes, or treasured in a discerning collector's cellar.

Vinous (94)

Vinous (95)

Vinous (94)

The Attems Collio Trebes Ribolla Gialla 2020 is a remarkable expression of tradition and excellence from Italy's Collio region, crafted by the esteemed Attems winery. An homage to its ancestral heritage, Ribolla Gialla is a native varietal meticulously nurtured to convey the vineyard's unique terroir. It is suitably fermented both in stainless-steel vats at controlled temperature and wooden casks to enhance complexity whilst maintaining vibrant freshness.

This select cuvée offers floral nuances of acacia, jacaranda and cherry blossom, intermingled with crisp citrus notes. On the palate, it is full-bodied, finely structured with a refreshingly persistent finish. The winemaker recommends decanting before service to reveal its multi-dimensional character.

Standing proudly on the frontier of Italian viticulture, the Attems winery embodies a profound respect for the environment. Their viticulture practices exemplify sustainability, being certified by both the VIVA programme and ‘Carbon Neutral’ initiative, thus making the Attems Collio Trebes Ribolla Gialla 2020 not just a delightful imbibing experience, but an eco-conscious choice.

Behold the Aurelio Settimo Barolo Rocche dell’Annunziata 2016, a stately embodiment of exquisiteness. A product of the esteemed Aurelio Settimo vineyard, nestled in La Morra, the heart of Barolo region in Piedmont, Italy, this remarkable red wine speaks to the delicate craftsmanship that defines this cherished Italian winemaking tradition. The wine stands testament to meticulous, traditional winemaking methods, bay for twenty-four long months in large Slavonian oak barrels that infuse the wine with distinctive depth and flavour.

Immerse in the captivating aromas of roses and ripe red fruits, wrapped in a hint of spicy notes. Masterfully crafted from 100% Nebbiolo grapes, it delivers a full-bodied, harmoniously balanced sip that seduces with an elegant finish. Worthy of ageing, the Aurelio Settimo Barolo Rocche dell’Annunziata 2016 can be cellared to reveal mellowed tannins, and a rich complexity of layered flavours, making this robust vino an epitome of vinicultural excellence.

Vinous (90)

Discover the distinct taste of the Avignonesi Desiderio Merlot 1998, a sublime vintage characterised by its profound complexity and richness. Produced by the renowned Tuscan vineyard, Avignonesi, this merlot exudes an expressive bouquet of ripe dark fruits, sweet spices, and hints of rich chocolate - a testament to Avignonesi's masterful blend of tradition and innovation. The berries are handpicked to ensure optimum ripeness, from the vineyard's indigenous clayey soil. They are then fermented in French oak barrels for two years, intensifying the wine's opulent flavour profile. The outcome is an awe-inspiring merlot with profound depth and balance, notable tannins subtly layered with a smooth finish. A memorable offering from one of Italy's most cherished wineries, the Avignonesi Desiderio Merlot 1998 symbolises the best features of Tuscan winemaking and is a must-have addition to any collector's cache.

Vinous (91)

Vinous (96)

Vinous (86)

Azelia Barolo Bricco Fiasco 2019 is an exquisite expression from the Piedmont region of Italy, curated by a reputable producer, Luigi Scavino. This captivating wine is made from 100% Nebbiolo grapes aged for two years in large Slovenian oak casks, enshrining the traditional winemaking methods of the region. Luigi honors his great-grandfather's legacy, showing passion and precision in creating an impeccable representation of the Barolo style. Azelia Barolo Bricco Fiasco 2019 possesses an inviting nose of rose petal and forest floor, complemented by rich, tart red cherry flavors on the palate. Its well-integrated tannins and exquisite balance result in a luscious, velvety texture, culminating in a persistent finish. This glorious gem is a true steal from the heart of Barolo, known as the 'King of Wines.' The depth, complexity and sheer Italian style that the Azelia Barolo Bricco Fiasco 2019 offers will assuredly charm the most discerning of palates.

The Azelia Barolo Cerretta 2017 is a sublime example from the heart of Italy's prestigious Piedmont region. This full-bodied red, born of the Nebbiolo grape, is a product of Azelia, a winery renowned for boutique production of high-quality, distinct wines. Skilfully crafted by fifth-generation winemaker Lorenzo Scavino, the Azelia Barolo Cerretta 2017 charms with a complex array of aromas, including cherries, rose petals, and subtle undertones of truffle. Its robust structure, opulent tannins and vibrant acidity elevate the palate, signifying an ageing potential of decades. The winemaking process employs traditional techniques: the grapes are manually harvested, fermented naturally, and the wine aged in large Slavonian oak barrels. The rich character of the Azelia Barolo Cerretta 2017 perfectly represents the winery's dedication to authenticity, traditon, and elegance. A glass of this wine presents not merely a taste, but an experience, of the distinguished Barolo territory.

James Suckling (95)

Vinous (94)

Vinous (95.5)

Vinous (94)

Vinous (94)

Vinous (88)

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.