Sub-Region
Sub-Region
| Product Name | Region | Qty | Score | Price | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Vigneti delle Dolomiti | 1 | 98 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£463.09 |
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Wine Advocate (98)This edition from the legendary Tenuta San Leonardo estate in Trentino is presented with an artist-signed label. The special release of 999 bottles features the surreal artwork of Simone Berti. From a cool vintage, the 2018 San Leonardo is incredibly fine and beautiful with a filigree of aromas that recalls wild blackberry, tobacco, pressed rosemary, cherry tartlet and orange marmalade. The wine's elegance is extraordinary, and the mouthfeel is very fine and precise. This classic vintage will certainly appeal to San Leonardo purists. I recommend giving it a long runway to age. |
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Vigneti delle Dolomiti | 6 | 96+ (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£178.76 |
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Wine Advocate (96+)This vintage starts off with a bigger sense of fruit weight and texture. The Tenuta San Leonardo 2019 San Leonardo is a little more accessible in the medium term (for a wine that notoriously requires many years of cellaring to show its best results). Fruit flavors embrace blackcurrant, spice and cured tobacco. There is a hit of black pepper in this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenère and Merlot, but otherwise you get more ripeness in this medium- to full-bodied vintage. |
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Vigneti delle Dolomiti | 2 | 96+ (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£985.00 |
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Wine Advocate (96+)This vintage starts off with a bigger sense of fruit weight and texture. The Tenuta San Leonardo 2019 San Leonardo is a little more accessible in the medium term (for a wine that notoriously requires many years of cellaring to show its best results). Fruit flavors embrace blackcurrant, spice and cured tobacco. There is a hit of black pepper in this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenère and Merlot, but otherwise you get more ripeness in this medium- to full-bodied vintage. |
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Vigneti delle Dolomiti | 2 | - |
Inc. VAT
£894.41 |
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Trentino Alto Adige | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£120.53 |
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San Leonardo, Cabernet Franc 2020 exemplifies the pinnacle of fine winemaking, meticulously crafted in the heart of [Region, e.g., Tuscany]. Grown in sustainably managed vineyards, the Cabernet Franc grapes are handpicked at optimal ripeness to ensure exceptional quality. Fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, the wine undergoes a delicate maceration process, enhancing its vibrant fruit character and intricate tannic structure. Aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, it develops nuanced layers of blackberry, cedar, and subtle herbal notes, complemented by a refined acidity and silky finish. The esteemed San Leonardo estate, renowned for its dedication to traditional practices blended with modern techniques, delivers a Cabernet Franc that is both elegant and expressive. Perfectly suited to mature gracefully, this 2020 vintage promises an exquisite addition to any connoisseur’s collection, showcasing the distinctive terroir and the producer’s unwavering commitment to excellence. |
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Tuscany | 1 | 97 (JS) |
Inc. VAT
£464.38 |
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James Suckling (97)Attractive aromas of cherry, dark mushroom, bark and walnut follow through to a full body with lots of ripe cherry and berry character in the center palate. Firm, chewy tannins draw you down the palate. Extremely long. From organically grown grapes. Better than the superb 2015? Drink after 2023 and onwards. |
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Tuscany | 1 | 88 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£92.93 |
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Wine Advocate (88)The 2009 Brunello di Montalcino Helichrysum redeems some of the shortcomings of San Polino’s base 2009 Brunello. Although the wine feels sticky and chewy in the mouth with an evidently mature quality of fruit, Helichrysum is characteristic of a hot Brunello vintage. You’ll recognize tones of jammy fruit, cherry cough drop and sweet maple syrup. Drink: 2016-2020. |
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Tuscany | 1 | 98 (JS) |
Inc. VAT
£371.98 |
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James Suckling (98)Wow. This is really complex on the nose with black cherries, mushrooms, dried flowers and cedar. Some crushed stone and dry earth or tile. This is full-bodied and very layered with wonderful depth of fruit and creamy tannins. It’s focused and serene. Better than 2015. From organically grown grapes. Try in 2024 and onwards. |
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Tuscany | 1 | 98 (JS) |
Inc. VAT
£411.58 |
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James Suckling (98)The purity and polish here shows wonderfully the moment you stick your nose in the glass, with complex aromas of plums, berries, cedar and violets. It’s full-bodied and ever so refined with elegant and intense tannins that take you deep into the wine. This is a thoughtful and finely crafted Brunello that needs time to show you its greatness. From organically grown grapes. Try after 2024. |
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Tuscany | 1 | 97 (JS) |
Inc. VAT
£305.15 |
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James Suckling (97)A rich, layered red with blackberry and chocolate, as well as cured-meat and wet-earth undertones. It’s full-bodied with depth, intensity and focus. Lovely, velvety tannins and a long, creamy-textured mouth feel. Generous finish with tension. Better than 2015. Try after 2024. |
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Tuscany | 30 | - |
Inc. VAT
£357.95 |
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Veneto | 5 | - |
Inc. VAT
£142.40 |
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The Sant'Antonio Corvina Scaia 2019 is an exquisite selection hailing from the cherished Veneto region. As a testament to the craftsmanship of Tenuta Sant'Antonio, this wine exemplifies their innovative viticulture methods and unwavering commitment to quality. Made predominantly from hand-picked Corvina grapes, which are native to the region, this wine undergoes a meticulous winemaking process. Following a gentle crushing, the grapes participate in a cold pre-fermentation maceration, influencing the wine’s aromatic profile. At the heart of the scent, one finds vibrant cherry woven with subtle yet distinctive earthy tones. Its palate unfolds into a lively parade of crisp, fruity flavours, underscored by a delightful mineral edge. The Sant'Antonio Corvina Scaia 2019, with its harmonious balance and enduring appeal, is more than a drink. It's a sip of Veneto tradition, lovingly cultivated, deftly crafted, and presented for your enjoyment. Elegant as a standalone, it equally complements a range of Italian delights. |
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Piedmont | 10 | - |
Inc. VAT
£378.80 |
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Experience the graceful allure of the Sara Vezza Barolo Ravera 2016. Masterfully crafted in the heart of Piedmont, Italy, this vintage red boasts a disciplined structure thanks to the region's cool climate and strict harvesting laws. With ageworthy finesse, Sara Vezza's traditionalist approach ensures the full expression of Nebbiolo in each bottle. The integrity of old-world winemaking runs deep in the Vezza family, cultivating a product steeped in authenticity. The Sara Vezza Barolo Ravera 2016 presents an elegant tapestry of dried roses, crushed minerals and ripe red fruits forming a beautifully complex palate. Harmoniously balanced and well-integrated tannins invite a long, lingering finish. While ideal for decanting, its unflinching quality and potential for cellar ageing renders it a prominent contender for any discerning collector. Whether indulged now or stored for a special occasion, the Sara Vezza Barolo Ravera 2016 promises a captivating journey through Italy's quintessential wine heritage. |
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Piedmont | 10 | - |
Inc. VAT
£363.20 |
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|
Indulge in the exquisite Sara Vezza Barolo Ravera 2017, a jewel of the Langhe region in Piedmont, Italy. The carefully cultivated Nebbiolo grape varietal has been masterfully utilised by the respected Vezza family, who have passionately nurtured their craft over the generations. Their commitment to high-density planting, traditional viticulture methods, and meticulous grape selection manifests in a sublime expression of the Nebbiolo grape. The Sara Vezza Barolo Ravera 2017 boasts a tapestry of elegant aromas, from wild cherry and fragrant rose petal, to undertones of leather and tobacco. It graces the palate with a full-bodied, velvety texture, underpinned by a well-structured tannic backbone. Decanting is advised to fully reveal the wine's complexity and intensity. This wine not only stands as an epitome of terroir-driven Barolo but is also an extraordinary testament to the Vezza family's winemaking finesse. |
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Piedmont | 9 | - |
Inc. VAT
£168.80 |
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|
Renowned for its meticulous crafting and harmonious complexity, the Saracco Langhe Prasue Chardonnay 2021 is a radiant embodiment of Italian viticulture. Produced in the heart of Langhe's fruitful vineyards by the esteemed Saracco winery, this Chardonnay is a testament to the expertise and organic intuition that defines its maker. The grapes are chosen for their uniform ripeness and gentle pressing, ensuring an evocative bouquet and inviting complexity. The juice undergoes controlled temperature fermentation, with extended lees contact in stainless steel vats to enhance structure and character. Transforming with subtle oak influence, the Saracco Langhe Prasue Chardonnay 2021 reveals alluring notes of golden apple, pear and a fitting minerality. The palate is spherical and well-balanced, with hints of citrus and white flowers on the lingering finish. A superb illustration of the Saracco winery’s commitment to tradition and innovation, this Chardonnay is truly an experience not to missed by any dedicated wine enthusiast. |
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Piedmont | 2 | - |
Inc. VAT
£159.20 |
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|
The Saracco Pinot Nero 2017, hailing from the prestigious vineyards of Italy's Piedmont region, embodies a wine that bridges tradition and innovation with impeccable class. Exuding mastery over winemaking, Saracco - a venerated name in Piedmont's wine history - harnesses the unique climate and terroir to create luscious notes of wild berries and distinctive minerality. Matured in oak barrels, this Pinot Nero undergoes soft pressing followed by temperature-controlled fermentation, preserving its aromatic complexity and depth of character. Expect a tantalising bouquet of blackberry, red cherry mingled with adorable notes of rose petals, balanced by light tannins and lively acidity. A gem among Pinot Neros, this 2017 vintage remains true to the varietal's elegance while accentuating the individuality of Piedmont's terroir. Indulge in the Saracco Pinot Nero 2017, an authentic testament of the marriage between a skilled producer's pursuit of excellence and the natural endowments of Italy's enigmatic vineyards. |
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Tuscany | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£6,467.04 |
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Tuscany | 2 | 88 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£929.21 |
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Wine Advocate (88)This is the first vintage that bears the Bolgheri Sassicaia DOC appellation. In fact, the 1994 Bolgheri Sassicaia represents the first edition of the first single-winery denomination in Italy and this special distinction has never again been duplicated. Furthermore, this release has never been formally reviewed in Robert Parker Wine Advocate. My impression is that the oak integration is less successful in this effort. There is a moment of hollowness on the mid-palate that is subsequently followed by dry and dusty oak tannins. There are few fruit remnants of prune and dried cherry, but promising more than that is a stretch. If you have a bottle, drink it sooner rather than later. |
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Tuscany | 1 | 91 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£5,185.28 |
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Wine Advocate (91)The 1995 Bolgheri Sassicaia still holds court, thank you very much. It reminds me of a grande dame, or a woman of influence and sophistication who lights up the room thanks to her expertly delivered, albeit antiquated charm. The wine's aged evolution is evident as the bouquet releases sure aromas of dried fruit, old spice, saffron and cola. I can't say the aromas reach perfect equilibrium, because they don't. There is a muddled fruit note in there too that subtracts from its purity. The mouthfeel is svelte and lean with finely polished and silky tannins. In fact, the wine's texture shows precision and elegance. Pretty menthol notes appear on the long finish. |
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Tuscany | 1 | 90+ (VN (ST)) |
Inc. VAT
£2,101.24 |
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Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (90+)(80% cabernet sauvignon and 20% cabernet franc): Medium saturated ruby-red. Fresh aromas of blackcurrant, graphite, herbs and mocha. Intense flavors of minty blackberry and cedar, complicated by leather and minerals and a hint of tomato paste. This has filled out considerably with time in bottle and now shows less of the green edges that were apparent a few years ago. Another very good example of how lesser vintages of Sassicaia improve markedly with time; I probably underrated this wine in my initial evaluation. Though 2002 was a horrific, rain-plagued vintage, insiders know that it rained less in Bolgheri than in other parts of Tuscany, and to Incisa della Rocchetta?s credit, a whopping 40% of the final wine was declassified, so there?s less Sassicaia to go around from this vintage. |
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Tuscany | 1 | 97 (VN (ST)) |
Inc. VAT
£4,717.66 |
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Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (97)(85% cabernet sauvignon and 15% cabernet franc): Deep ruby-red. Captivatingly intense yet refined aromas of ripe red cherry, mint, smoke and black truffle, complicated by lovely mineral and floral elements. Ripe, rich and velvety on entry, then concentrated in the middle, with flavors of red cherry, cassis, spices, bay leaf, dark chocolate and espresso. Amazingly well balanced and fresh wine, with sound, bright acids supplying wonderful lift and precision and smooth, noble tannins adding considerable power and grace. The finish goes on for minutes, highlighted by an enchanting floral-mineral quality; in my experience, the appearance of this strong floral component (in the absence of herbal or peppery aromas and flavors more typical of lesser vintages) at this early stage of development is typical of the greatest versions of Sassicaia. One of the top dozen Sassicaia bottlings ever. Interestingly, over the years owner Incisa della Rocchetta has been accused by some wine writers of harvesting much too early. In 2004 all the cabernet at Sassicaia was picked within the month of September, whereas some neighboring estates harvested well into October. Given the differences in quality achieved, some of the latter might do well to take a page out of Sassicaia's play book. |
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| Product Name | Region | Qty | Score | Price | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Vigneti delle Dolomiti | 1 | 98 (WA) |
In Bond
£368.00 |
|||||
Wine Advocate (98)This edition from the legendary Tenuta San Leonardo estate in Trentino is presented with an artist-signed label. The special release of 999 bottles features the surreal artwork of Simone Berti. From a cool vintage, the 2018 San Leonardo is incredibly fine and beautiful with a filigree of aromas that recalls wild blackberry, tobacco, pressed rosemary, cherry tartlet and orange marmalade. The wine's elegance is extraordinary, and the mouthfeel is very fine and precise. This classic vintage will certainly appeal to San Leonardo purists. I recommend giving it a long runway to age. |
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|
|
Vigneti delle Dolomiti | 6 | 96+ (WA) |
In Bond
£143.00 |
|||||
Wine Advocate (96+)This vintage starts off with a bigger sense of fruit weight and texture. The Tenuta San Leonardo 2019 San Leonardo is a little more accessible in the medium term (for a wine that notoriously requires many years of cellaring to show its best results). Fruit flavors embrace blackcurrant, spice and cured tobacco. There is a hit of black pepper in this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenère and Merlot, but otherwise you get more ripeness in this medium- to full-bodied vintage. |
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Vigneti delle Dolomiti | 2 | 96+ (WA) |
In Bond
£785.00 |
|||||
Wine Advocate (96+)This vintage starts off with a bigger sense of fruit weight and texture. The Tenuta San Leonardo 2019 San Leonardo is a little more accessible in the medium term (for a wine that notoriously requires many years of cellaring to show its best results). Fruit flavors embrace blackcurrant, spice and cured tobacco. There is a hit of black pepper in this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenère and Merlot, but otherwise you get more ripeness in this medium- to full-bodied vintage. |
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Vigneti delle Dolomiti | 2 | - |
In Bond
£704.00 |
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Trentino Alto Adige | 1 | - |
In Bond
£97.00 |
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San Leonardo, Cabernet Franc 2020 exemplifies the pinnacle of fine winemaking, meticulously crafted in the heart of [Region, e.g., Tuscany]. Grown in sustainably managed vineyards, the Cabernet Franc grapes are handpicked at optimal ripeness to ensure exceptional quality. Fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, the wine undergoes a delicate maceration process, enhancing its vibrant fruit character and intricate tannic structure. Aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, it develops nuanced layers of blackberry, cedar, and subtle herbal notes, complemented by a refined acidity and silky finish. The esteemed San Leonardo estate, renowned for its dedication to traditional practices blended with modern techniques, delivers a Cabernet Franc that is both elegant and expressive. Perfectly suited to mature gracefully, this 2020 vintage promises an exquisite addition to any connoisseur’s collection, showcasing the distinctive terroir and the producer’s unwavering commitment to excellence. |
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Tuscany | 1 | 97 (JS) |
In Bond
£367.00 |
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James Suckling (97)Attractive aromas of cherry, dark mushroom, bark and walnut follow through to a full body with lots of ripe cherry and berry character in the center palate. Firm, chewy tannins draw you down the palate. Extremely long. From organically grown grapes. Better than the superb 2015? Drink after 2023 and onwards. |
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Tuscany | 1 | 88 (WA) |
In Bond
£74.00 |
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Wine Advocate (88)The 2009 Brunello di Montalcino Helichrysum redeems some of the shortcomings of San Polino’s base 2009 Brunello. Although the wine feels sticky and chewy in the mouth with an evidently mature quality of fruit, Helichrysum is characteristic of a hot Brunello vintage. You’ll recognize tones of jammy fruit, cherry cough drop and sweet maple syrup. Drink: 2016-2020. |
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Tuscany | 1 | 98 (JS) |
In Bond
£290.00 |
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James Suckling (98)Wow. This is really complex on the nose with black cherries, mushrooms, dried flowers and cedar. Some crushed stone and dry earth or tile. This is full-bodied and very layered with wonderful depth of fruit and creamy tannins. It’s focused and serene. Better than 2015. From organically grown grapes. Try in 2024 and onwards. |
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|
|
Tuscany | 1 | 98 (JS) |
In Bond
£323.00 |
|||||
James Suckling (98)The purity and polish here shows wonderfully the moment you stick your nose in the glass, with complex aromas of plums, berries, cedar and violets. It’s full-bodied and ever so refined with elegant and intense tannins that take you deep into the wine. This is a thoughtful and finely crafted Brunello that needs time to show you its greatness. From organically grown grapes. Try after 2024. |
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|
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Tuscany | 1 | 97 (JS) |
In Bond
£235.00 |
|||||
James Suckling (97)A rich, layered red with blackberry and chocolate, as well as cured-meat and wet-earth undertones. It’s full-bodied with depth, intensity and focus. Lovely, velvety tannins and a long, creamy-textured mouth feel. Generous finish with tension. Better than 2015. Try after 2024. |
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Tuscany | 30 | - |
In Bond
£279.00 |
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Veneto | 5 | - |
In Bond
£98.00 |
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|
The Sant'Antonio Corvina Scaia 2019 is an exquisite selection hailing from the cherished Veneto region. As a testament to the craftsmanship of Tenuta Sant'Antonio, this wine exemplifies their innovative viticulture methods and unwavering commitment to quality. Made predominantly from hand-picked Corvina grapes, which are native to the region, this wine undergoes a meticulous winemaking process. Following a gentle crushing, the grapes participate in a cold pre-fermentation maceration, influencing the wine’s aromatic profile. At the heart of the scent, one finds vibrant cherry woven with subtle yet distinctive earthy tones. Its palate unfolds into a lively parade of crisp, fruity flavours, underscored by a delightful mineral edge. The Sant'Antonio Corvina Scaia 2019, with its harmonious balance and enduring appeal, is more than a drink. It's a sip of Veneto tradition, lovingly cultivated, deftly crafted, and presented for your enjoyment. Elegant as a standalone, it equally complements a range of Italian delights. |
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|
|
Piedmont | 10 | - |
In Bond
£295.00 |
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|
Experience the graceful allure of the Sara Vezza Barolo Ravera 2016. Masterfully crafted in the heart of Piedmont, Italy, this vintage red boasts a disciplined structure thanks to the region's cool climate and strict harvesting laws. With ageworthy finesse, Sara Vezza's traditionalist approach ensures the full expression of Nebbiolo in each bottle. The integrity of old-world winemaking runs deep in the Vezza family, cultivating a product steeped in authenticity. The Sara Vezza Barolo Ravera 2016 presents an elegant tapestry of dried roses, crushed minerals and ripe red fruits forming a beautifully complex palate. Harmoniously balanced and well-integrated tannins invite a long, lingering finish. While ideal for decanting, its unflinching quality and potential for cellar ageing renders it a prominent contender for any discerning collector. Whether indulged now or stored for a special occasion, the Sara Vezza Barolo Ravera 2016 promises a captivating journey through Italy's quintessential wine heritage. |
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|
|
Piedmont | 10 | - |
In Bond
£282.00 |
|||||
|
Indulge in the exquisite Sara Vezza Barolo Ravera 2017, a jewel of the Langhe region in Piedmont, Italy. The carefully cultivated Nebbiolo grape varietal has been masterfully utilised by the respected Vezza family, who have passionately nurtured their craft over the generations. Their commitment to high-density planting, traditional viticulture methods, and meticulous grape selection manifests in a sublime expression of the Nebbiolo grape. The Sara Vezza Barolo Ravera 2017 boasts a tapestry of elegant aromas, from wild cherry and fragrant rose petal, to undertones of leather and tobacco. It graces the palate with a full-bodied, velvety texture, underpinned by a well-structured tannic backbone. Decanting is advised to fully reveal the wine's complexity and intensity. This wine not only stands as an epitome of terroir-driven Barolo but is also an extraordinary testament to the Vezza family's winemaking finesse. |
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|
|
Piedmont | 9 | - |
In Bond
£120.00 |
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|
Renowned for its meticulous crafting and harmonious complexity, the Saracco Langhe Prasue Chardonnay 2021 is a radiant embodiment of Italian viticulture. Produced in the heart of Langhe's fruitful vineyards by the esteemed Saracco winery, this Chardonnay is a testament to the expertise and organic intuition that defines its maker. The grapes are chosen for their uniform ripeness and gentle pressing, ensuring an evocative bouquet and inviting complexity. The juice undergoes controlled temperature fermentation, with extended lees contact in stainless steel vats to enhance structure and character. Transforming with subtle oak influence, the Saracco Langhe Prasue Chardonnay 2021 reveals alluring notes of golden apple, pear and a fitting minerality. The palate is spherical and well-balanced, with hints of citrus and white flowers on the lingering finish. A superb illustration of the Saracco winery’s commitment to tradition and innovation, this Chardonnay is truly an experience not to missed by any dedicated wine enthusiast. |
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|
|
Piedmont | 2 | - |
In Bond
£112.00 |
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|
The Saracco Pinot Nero 2017, hailing from the prestigious vineyards of Italy's Piedmont region, embodies a wine that bridges tradition and innovation with impeccable class. Exuding mastery over winemaking, Saracco - a venerated name in Piedmont's wine history - harnesses the unique climate and terroir to create luscious notes of wild berries and distinctive minerality. Matured in oak barrels, this Pinot Nero undergoes soft pressing followed by temperature-controlled fermentation, preserving its aromatic complexity and depth of character. Expect a tantalising bouquet of blackberry, red cherry mingled with adorable notes of rose petals, balanced by light tannins and lively acidity. A gem among Pinot Neros, this 2017 vintage remains true to the varietal's elegance while accentuating the individuality of Piedmont's terroir. Indulge in the Saracco Pinot Nero 2017, an authentic testament of the marriage between a skilled producer's pursuit of excellence and the natural endowments of Italy's enigmatic vineyards. |
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|
Tuscany | 1 | - |
In Bond
£5,383.00 |
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|
|
Tuscany | 2 | 88 (WA) |
In Bond
£769.00 |
|||||
Wine Advocate (88)This is the first vintage that bears the Bolgheri Sassicaia DOC appellation. In fact, the 1994 Bolgheri Sassicaia represents the first edition of the first single-winery denomination in Italy and this special distinction has never again been duplicated. Furthermore, this release has never been formally reviewed in Robert Parker Wine Advocate. My impression is that the oak integration is less successful in this effort. There is a moment of hollowness on the mid-palate that is subsequently followed by dry and dusty oak tannins. There are few fruit remnants of prune and dried cherry, but promising more than that is a stretch. If you have a bottle, drink it sooner rather than later. |
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|
|
Tuscany | 1 | 91 (WA) |
In Bond
£4,288.00 |
|||||
Wine Advocate (91)The 1995 Bolgheri Sassicaia still holds court, thank you very much. It reminds me of a grande dame, or a woman of influence and sophistication who lights up the room thanks to her expertly delivered, albeit antiquated charm. The wine's aged evolution is evident as the bouquet releases sure aromas of dried fruit, old spice, saffron and cola. I can't say the aromas reach perfect equilibrium, because they don't. There is a muddled fruit note in there too that subtracts from its purity. The mouthfeel is svelte and lean with finely polished and silky tannins. In fact, the wine's texture shows precision and elegance. Pretty menthol notes appear on the long finish. |
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|
|
Tuscany | 1 | 90+ (VN (ST)) |
In Bond
£1,735.00 |
|||||
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (90+)(80% cabernet sauvignon and 20% cabernet franc): Medium saturated ruby-red. Fresh aromas of blackcurrant, graphite, herbs and mocha. Intense flavors of minty blackberry and cedar, complicated by leather and minerals and a hint of tomato paste. This has filled out considerably with time in bottle and now shows less of the green edges that were apparent a few years ago. Another very good example of how lesser vintages of Sassicaia improve markedly with time; I probably underrated this wine in my initial evaluation. Though 2002 was a horrific, rain-plagued vintage, insiders know that it rained less in Bolgheri than in other parts of Tuscany, and to Incisa della Rocchetta?s credit, a whopping 40% of the final wine was declassified, so there?s less Sassicaia to go around from this vintage. |
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|
|
Tuscany | 1 | 97 (VN (ST)) |
In Bond
£3,910.00 |
|||||
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (97)(85% cabernet sauvignon and 15% cabernet franc): Deep ruby-red. Captivatingly intense yet refined aromas of ripe red cherry, mint, smoke and black truffle, complicated by lovely mineral and floral elements. Ripe, rich and velvety on entry, then concentrated in the middle, with flavors of red cherry, cassis, spices, bay leaf, dark chocolate and espresso. Amazingly well balanced and fresh wine, with sound, bright acids supplying wonderful lift and precision and smooth, noble tannins adding considerable power and grace. The finish goes on for minutes, highlighted by an enchanting floral-mineral quality; in my experience, the appearance of this strong floral component (in the absence of herbal or peppery aromas and flavors more typical of lesser vintages) at this early stage of development is typical of the greatest versions of Sassicaia. One of the top dozen Sassicaia bottlings ever. Interestingly, over the years owner Incisa della Rocchetta has been accused by some wine writers of harvesting much too early. In 2004 all the cabernet at Sassicaia was picked within the month of September, whereas some neighboring estates harvested well into October. Given the differences in quality achieved, some of the latter might do well to take a page out of Sassicaia's play book. |
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