JamesSuckling.com & Zachys Present Great Wines of Italy, New York City

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4/24/2013 4:34:39 PM

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200

Wines

WORLD-CLASS

Wine

Dinner 100 top Resttauraan Restaurants

GRAND TASTINGS TITLE SPONSORS

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zachys

®

WINE AND LIQUOR, INC.

Zachys Is BACK With Great Wines Of Italy, New York We’re back!!!

For those of you who remember our FALL EXTRAVAGANZAS, for 6 years in a row we staged a huge wine event with one goal in mind To create a "One Time Only" wine event where we assembled several of the world’s top estates for one night and rolled out the red carpet.

As we are not event-planners, these became challenging to pull off every year and took a few year hiatus. When James came to us and told us his concept, and what he wanted to do in New York, my response was swift and firm, “We’re Back!!”

For the last 20 years Zachys has taken great pride in the fact that we have one of the most extensive Italian wine selections in America. Italian food & wine culture is a HUGE part of what and who we are….so to do an event of this magnitude with the emphasis being on the best-of-the-best from Italy was a natural for us.

We are once again aligning our event with one of New York’s most important charitable organization.

ROBIN HOOD – Targeting Poverty In New York City. (To date Robin Hood has allocated over $70 million to nearly 400 organizations working throughout the tri-state area to help families and individuals recover from Hurricane Sandy) Please take note of our charity auction on May 9 as 100% of the proceeds will be going to Robin Hood.

A very special thanks to our corporate partnerships with AMERIPRISE FINANCIAL ADVISORS, LALIQUE CRYSTAL, and SPAREA WATER, whose support of this event has helped to make it so special.

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15% OFF ALL WINES TASTED TONIGHT!*

Each and every year the planning that goes into an evening like this makes us wonder..."Are we crazy"? "Why do we do this?"

But when we open the doors and see our guests interact with the wineries, it makes it all worthwhile!!! In addition, at the end of the event as the tired winemakers are all packing up and heading out their final comments are always—"Be sure to count us in for next year!"

This year’s new location, St. Bart's Church, is absolutely breathtaking and memorable. Combine that with 107 of Italy’s best producers...I truly could not ask for anything more.

We want all of our guests to leave this event with a lasting memory and that “WOW” effect, and we felt what better way to do that than to give you a great product discount on the wines you taste tonight.

All wines being poured at the event will be given an 15% discount from Zachys for the week following tonight's event.

This is the discount you will receive on ALL wines being poured tonight. So, besides getting an opportunity to indulge in some of the finest Italian wines in the marketplace, if you place an order before you leave tonight (or in the next week) you will get a chance to save big! So, enjoy yourselves tonight and take advantage of this “once in a lifetime” opportunity to meet and taste with some of the biggest names in the wine world today.

All my best, Andrew McMurray

jamessuckling.com • zachys.com

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Why Great Wines of Italy?

Creating a wonderful Italian wine event in the United States has been a long time dream of mine -- first as an editor of The Wine Spectator magazine, and now as the CEO of JamesSuckling.com and wine editor of Tatler magazines in Asia. And I am thrilled that my dream has come true in New York City. No place on earth appreciates the finest Italian wines than here. In any given day, the best wines of Italy are consumed here whether a rare and profound Barolo or a fresh and lively Sicilian Frappato. And there are so many vintages of so many great Italian wines available in personal cellars, wine stores, and restaurants.

I don't think you will find the breadth and excitement in Italian wine drinking even in major metropolitan areas in Italy such as Rome or Milan. That's why hosting 107 wine producers from Italy in one place makes all the sense in the world in New York City.

I don't think many people will be disappointed during the Great Wines of Italy event. I personally selected every producer. They all had to be the very best wineries, and they all were asked to serve wines that I rated 90 points or more -- that means their very best quality. Participants can taste three wines from just about every producer and they can chat to most of the winemakers and winery owners themselves. This means so much more than just articles or points. It's experiencing the joy of Italian wine first hand.

Italy is making some of the most soulful, unique, and delicious wines in the world, both white and red. They are made to be consumed and enjoyed with friends and family. It's part of Italian life -- which is one reason I have lived part of the year in Italy for over 15 years.

But there's nothing like New York City.

My Great Wines of Italy New York City partners, Zachys, and I hope that this event becomes an annual fest for all of us to get together to celebrate, to savor, and to explore the best Italian wines available each year. Italy's great wines bring people together.

James Suckling

Photo: Alessandro Moggi

The added excitement of sharing these wines during an informal dinner together is a real plus. The lucky guests at the Great Wines of Italy Collector's Dinner will have the pleasure of experiencing selected wines in a family style Italian dinner organized by one of the best caterers in New York City. It should be a little like sharing a meal in Italy together. That's also why I asked my 15-year-old daughter Isabel to sing during the dinner. It's her debut in the United States after three years of recording in the United Kingdom.

My Lalique James Suckling 100 point wine glass will also be presented.

jamessuckling.com • zachys.com

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15% OFF ALL WINES TASTED TONIGHT!*

Table #

jamessuckling.com • zachys.com

9

OCC Back of House

Emergency Egress

Cheese

Cheese

Water Station

Water Station

107

87

88

105

90

85

70

106

89

86

69

71

84

91

104

82

73

83

72

Floral Moment

44

93

92

43

102

103

96

79

76

95

80

75

94

81

74

99

100

101 98 97 78 77

OCC Back of House

16

15

14

13

42 41 40 39

45 46 47 48

68 67 66

15% OFF ALL WINES TASTED TONIGHT!* 65

Cheese Cheese

10 Water Station Water Station

OCC Kitchen in Choir Room

OCC Back of House

Emergency Egress

OCC Back of House

Grand Tasting Map

St. Bartholomew's Church

jamessuckling.com • zachys.com

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6'

24"

42"h

= 8' x 24" x 42"h

Table KEY

Emergency Egress

Emergency Egress

Glass Station #3

12

11

10

9

8

7

6

5

4

Glass Station #1

21 20 19

24

31

32

23

33

34

Guest Entrance

18 17

3

38 37 36 22

35

49 50 51 52 30 29 28 27 26 25 Glass Station #2

64 63 62 61 60 59 58 57 56 55 54 53

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1

Glass Station #4

Emergency Egress Emergency Egress

Production Title

FSE -

Wineries (Alphabetically) Winery

Table Page

Agricola Punica................. 38 28 Argiano ...............................107 29 Arnaldo Caprai ..................61 30 Baracchi .............................10 31 Bellavista..............................23 32 Bibi Graetz ...........................93 33 Brancaia .............................59 34 Ca Viola .............................. 85 36 Caiarossa.............................49 44 Caparzo...............................77 38 Carpineto Fontalpino ........55 39 Casaloste............................ 54 40 Casanova di Neri ..............103 41 Cascina Adelaide ..............86 42 Castello Banfi ..................... 68 43 Castello di Bossi .................66 44 Castello di Querceto ........ 53 45 Castello Vicchiomaggio...56 46 Castelvecchio In San Casciano Val di Pesa .........................57 47 Castiglion Del Bosco.........104 48 Ceretto ............................... 44 49 Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona .........................89 50 Conterno-Fantino ..............41 51 Cottanera ............................27 52 Cusumano ...........................4 53 Damilano .............................87 54 DaVinci ................................11 55 Diadema ............................ 63 56 Domenico Clerico .............16 57 Donnachiara ..................... 64 58 Empson ................................21 59 Fanti .....................................106 60 Fattoria Le Pupille...............95 61 Fattoria Viticcio ..................12 62 Felsina ..................................13 63 Feudi di San Gregorio .......26 64 Feudo Maccari .................. 35 65 Fontanafredda .................. 80 66 Fontodi ................................ 58 67 Fuligni ...................................76 68 Giacomo Borgogno ..........79 70 Giacosa Bruno ................... 83 35 Gianni Gagliardo ...............39 71 Hauner - Casematte...........8 69 Il Borro ..................................94 72 Il Palagio ..............................32 120 Il Poggione .........................102 74 Il Pollenza .............................92 75 Inama ....................................2 76 La Massa ..............................99 77 La Rasina..............................70 78 La Serena ............................105 79 La Spinetta ......................... 43 80 La Valentina ....................... 33 81

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Winery

Table Page

Livio Felluga ........................24 Marchesi Antinori .............. 22 Marchesi De'Frescobaldi .46 Marchesi Mazzei.................14 Masciarelli ...........................28 Masi ..................................... 60 Massolino ............................ 45 Mastroberardino ................25 Mauro Molino .................... 84 Michele Chiarlo ..................15 Molino di Grace ............... 100 Monteverro ..........................98 Nittardi .................................97 Oddero ................................82 Orma ....................................51 Parusso ................................ 88 Petra ....................................17 Petrolo .................................31 Pieropan di Leonildo Pieropan .............................1 Pietradolce...........................9 Pio Cesare ..........................81 Planeta.................................29 Poder Nuovo .......................19 Podere Il Carnasciale....... 20 Podere Sapaio ....................47 Poderi Aldo Conterno .......78 Principe Corsini ...................18 Prunotto .............................. 40 Querciabella .......................6 Renato Ratti ........................69 Renieri ................................101 Roberto Voerzio .................42 San Filippo ...........................90 San Polino ............................74 Scopone ..............................73 Siro Pacenti di Giancarlo Pacenti ..............................91 Tasca d’Almerita ............... 34 Tentue Ambrogio e Giovanni Folonari ........... 48 Tenuta dell' Ornellaia ...... 50 Tenuta di Biserno ...............65 Tenuta Luce della Vite ......67 Tenuta San Guido ..............37 Tenuta Sette Ponti ..............36 Tenute Silvio Nardi ..............75 Tommasi .............................. 30 Tua Rita ................................96 Uccelliera ............................71 Valdicava ............................72 Valle dell' Acate ..................7 Vie di Romans ......................3 Villa Sparina .........................5 Vitalonga .............................62 Zaccagnini ..........................52

15% OFF ALL WINES TASTED TONIGHT!*

82 83 84 85 86 87 88 99 90 91 73 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 117 124 118 119 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 133 134

Wine (Alphabetically) Wine

Table

Amarone Campolongo Di Torbe Masi 2006...................................60 Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico Tommasi 2008 .................. 30 Amarone Della Valpolicella Tommasi 2009 .................................. 30 Amarone Della Valpolicella Vigna Garzon Pieropan 2009 .........1 Barbaresco Asili Bruno Giacosa 2008 .............................................83 Barbaresco Gallina Oddero 2008....................................................82 Barbaresco Il Bricco Pio Cesare 2008 ..............................................81 Barbaresco Prunotto 2009 .................................................................40 Barbaresco Vigneto Valeirano La Spinetta 2009 ..........................43 Barbera Bionzo La Spinetta 2009 .....................................................43 Barbera D'alba Bric Du Luv Ca Viola 2010......................................85 Barbera Del Monferrato Superiore Rivalta Villa Sparina 2009 .....5 Barolo Aeroplan Servaj Domenico Clerico 2007...........................16 Barolo Bricco Rocche Ceretto 2008 ............................................... 44 Barolo Brunate Bricco Rocche Ceretto 2008 ................................ 44 Barolo Bussia Parusso 2008 ............................................................... 88 Barolo Bussia Poderi Aldo Conterno 2008 ......................................78 Barolo Bussia Prunotto 2005 ..............................................................40 Barolo Campe Riserva La Spinetta 2007 .........................................43 Barolo Cannubi Cascina Adelaide 2008 ........................................86 Barolo Cannubi Damilano 2008 .......................................................87 Barolo Cannubi Giacomo Borgogno 2008 ....................................79 Barolo Cannubi Gianni Gagliardo 2008 .........................................39 Barolo Cannubi Michele Chiarlo 2007 ............................................15 Barolo Cerequio Michele Chiarlo 2007 ...........................................15 Barolo Ciabot Mentin Domenico Clerico 2008 .............................16 Barolo Cicala Poderi Aldo Conterno 2008 .....................................78 Barolo Colonnello Poderi Aldo Conterno 2008 .............................78 Barolo Conca Renato Ratti 2008 ......................................................69 Barolo Fossati Cascina Adelaide 2008 ............................................86 Barolo Giacomo Borgogno 2006 .....................................................79 Barolo Gianni Gagliardo 2008 ..........................................................39 Barolo La Rosa Fontanafredda 1998 ............................................... 80 Barolo La Rosa Fontanafredda 2008 .............................................. 80 Barolo La Serra Roberto Voerzio 2008 .............................................42 Barolo Le Coste-Mosconi Parusso 2008 ......................................... 88 Barolo Le Rocche Del Falletto Bruno Giacosa 2009 .....................83 Barolo Lecinquevigne Damilano 2008............................................87 Barolo Liste Damilano 2008 ...............................................................87 Barolo Marcenasco Renato Ratti 2008 ...........................................69 Barolo Margheria Massolino 2007 ....................................................45 Barolo Mauro Molino 2008 ............................................................... 84 Barolo Mosconi Conterno Fantino 2008 .........................................41 Barolo Oddero 2008 ...........................................................................82 Barolo Ornato Pio Cesare 2008 ........................................................81 Barolo Pajana Domenico Clerico 2007...........................................16 Barolo Parafada Massolino2007 .......................................................45 Barolo Parusso 2008 ........................................................................... 88 Barolo Pio Cesare 2008 ......................................................................81 Barolo Prapo Ceretto 2007 ............................................................... 44 Barolo Preda Cascina Adelaide 2007 .............................................86 Barolo Prunotto 2008 ..........................................................................40 Barolo Riserva Fossati Case Nere Roberto Voerzio 2003..............42 Barolo Riserva Giacomo Borgogno 1982 ........................................79 Barolo Riserva Rocche Del Falletto Bruno Giacosa 2007.............83 Barolo Rocche Dell’annunziata Torriglione Roberto Voerzio 2008... 42

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Wine (Alphabetically) Wine

Table

Barolo Rocche Renato Ratti 2008 ....................................................69 Barolo Serralunga D'alba Fontanafredda 2008 ........................... 80 Barolo Serre Gianni Gagliardo 2008................................................39 Barolo Sori Ginestra Conterno Fantino 2008 ..................................41 Barolo Sottocastello Ca Viola 2007 .................................................85 Barolo Tortoniano Michele Chiarlo 2007 ........................................15 Barolo Vigna Conca Mauro Molino 2008 ..................................... 84 Barolo Vigna Del Gris Conterno Fantino 2008 ...............................41 Barolo Vigna Gallinotto Mauro Molino 2008................................. 84 Barolo Vigna Rionda Riserva Massolino 2004 ................................45 Barolo Villero Oddero 2008 ...............................................................82 Bellovedere La Valentina 2007 .........................................................33 Bianco Flors Di Uis Isonzo Vie Di Romans 2009 ................................3 Binomio La Valentina 2008 ................................................................33 Bolgheri Baia Al Vento Tenuta Campo Al Mare Superiore (Tenute Ambrogio E Giovanni Folonari) 2009 ............................... 48 Bolgheri Le Serre Nuove Tenuta Dell’ornellaia 2010 ......................50 Bolgheri Superiore Sapaio Podere Sapaio 2007............................47 Bolgheri Superiore Sapaio Podere Sapaio 2008 ...........................47 Bolgheri Volpolo Podere Sapaio 2010 .............................................47 Brolo Di Campofi orin Masi 2009........................................................60 Brunello Di Montalcino Argiano 2007 .............................................107 Brunello Di Montalcino Campo Del Drago Castiglion Del Bosco 2006 ................................................................104 Brunello Di Montalcino Caparzo 2007 ............................................77 Brunello Di Montalcino Castello Banfi 2008....................................68 Brunello Di Montalcino Castiglion Del Bosco 2007 .....................104 Brunello Di Montalcino Cerretalto Casanova Di Neri 2007..........68 Brunello Di Montalcino Ciacci Piccolomini 2008 ..........................89 Brunello Di Montalcino Ciacci Piccolomini Pianrosso 2008.........89 Brunello Di Montalcino Fanti 2007 ...................................................106 Brunello Di Montalcino Fuligni 2008 .................................................76 Brunello Di Montalcino Helichrysum San Polino 2007 ..................74 Brunello Di Montalcino Il Divasco La Rasina 2007 .........................70 Brunello Di Montalcino Il Poggione 2007 .......................................102 Brunello Di Montalcino Il Poggione 2008 .......................................102 Brunello Di Montalcino La Casa Caparzo 2006 .............................77 Brunello Di Montalcino La Rasina 2007 ...........................................70 Brunello Di Montalcino La Rasina 2008 ...........................................70 Brunello Di Montalcino La Serena 2007..........................................105 Brunello Di Montalcino La Serena 2008 .........................................105 Brunello Di Montalcino Le Lucére Riserva San Filippo 2006.........90 Brunello Di Montalcino Le Lucére San Filippo 2007.......................90 Brunello Di Montalcino Le Lucére San Filippo 2008 ......................90 Brunello Di Montalcino Leonardo Da Vinci 2007...........................11 Brunello Di Montalcino Madonna Del Piano Riserva Valdicava 2006 ...................................................................................72 Brunello Di Montalcino Pelagrilli Siro Pacenti 2008 .......................91 Brunello Di Montalcino Poggio All’oro Riserva Castello Banfi 2007...68 Brunello Di Montalcino Poggio Alle Mura Castello Banfi 2007 ....68 Brunello Di Montalcino Renieri 2007 ...............................................101 Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva Caparzo 2006...............................77 Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva Castelgiocondo Marchesi De Frescobaldi 2006 .........................................................46 Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva Fanti 2007 ....................................106 Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva Fuligni 2006 ...................................76 Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva Fuligni 2007 ...................................76

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15% OFF ALL WINES TASTED TONIGHT!*

Page

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Wine (Alphabetically) Wine

Table

Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva Gemini La Serena 2006..............105 Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva Il Poggione 2007 .........................102 Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva Pianrosso Ciacci Piccolomini 2006 ....................................................................89 Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva Renieri 2006 .................................101 Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva Scopone 2006 ..............................73 Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva Uccelliera 2007 ............................71 Brunello Di Montalcino San Polino 2007 ..........................................74 Brunello Di Montalcino San Polino 2008..........................................74 Brunello Di Montalcino Scopone 2006 ............................................73 Brunello Di Montalcino Scopone 2007 ............................................73 Brunello Di Montalcino Siro Pacenti 2008 .......................................91 Brunello Di Montalcino Tenuta La Fuga (Tenute Ambrogio E Giovanni Folonari) 2007 ............................... 48 Brunello Di Montalcino Tenuta Luce Della Vite 2007 ...................67 Brunello Di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova Casanova Di Neri 2008 ....103 Brunello Di Montalcino Tenute Silvio Nardi 2007............................75 Brunello Di Montalcino Uccelliera 2007 ..........................................71 Brunello Di Montalcino Uccelliera 2008 ..........................................71 Brunello Di Montalcino Valdicava 2006 ..........................................72 Brunello Di Montalcino Valdicava 2007 ..........................................72 Brunello Di Montalcino Vigneto Manachiara Tenute Silvio Nardi 2006 .....................................................................75 Brunello Di Montalcino Vigneto Manachiara Tenute Silvio Nardi 2007 .....................................................................75 Casino Delle Vie Il Palagio 2009 .......................................................32 Castello Di Fonterutoli Mazzei 2006 .................................................14 Cerasuolo Di Vittoria Classico Valle Dell Acate 2010 ....................7 Chardonnay Ciampagnis Vieris Isonzo Vie Di Romans 2009 .......3 Chianti Classico Carpineta Fontalpino 2010 ..................................55 Chianti Classico Casaloste 2009 ......................................................54 Chianti Classico Castello Di Bossi 2009 ...........................................66 Chianti Classico Don Tommaso Principe Corsini 2007..................18 Chianti Classico Felsina 2010 ............................................................13 Chianti Classico Fonterutoli Mazzei 2010 ........................................14 Chianti Classico Fontodi 2009...........................................................58 Chianti Classico Nittardi 2010 ...........................................................97 Chianti Classico Querciabella 2009 .................................................6 Chianti Classico Rancia Felsina 2009 ..............................................13 Chianti Classico Riserva Brancaia 2009 ..........................................59 Chianti Classico Riserva Carpineta Fontalpino 2009 ...................55 Chianti Classico Riserva Casaloste 2007 ........................................54 Chianti Classico Riserva Castello Di Querceto 2009 ....................53 Chianti Classico Riserva Castello Vicchiomaggio 2009 ..............56 Chianti Classico Riserva Il Molino Di Grace 2008 ........................ 100 Chianti Classico Riserva Nittardi 2009 .............................................97 Chianti Classico Riserva Toscolo (Empson) 2007 ...........................21 Chianti Classico Riserva Viticcio 2009 .............................................12 Chianti Classico Toscolo (Empson) 2009 .........................................21 Chianti Classico Vigna Del Sorbo Riserva Fontodi 2009 ..............58 Chianti Classico Viticcio 2009...........................................................12 Chianti Colli Fiorentini Vigna La Quercia Riserva Castelvecchio 2008 ............................................................................57 Chianti Vigna La Prima Riserva Castello Vicchiomaggio 2009 ..56 Colli Della Toscana Centrale Flaccianello Della Pieve Fontodi 2009.........................................................................................58

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Wine (Alphabetically) Wine

Table

Colli Della Toscana Centrale Il Sole Di Alessandro Castello Di Querceto 2008................................................................................. 53 Colli Della Toscana Centrale La Corte Castello Di Querceto 2008.......53 Colli Orientali Del Friuli Rosso Sosso Riserva Livio Felluga 2006 ..24 Colli Orientali Del Friuli Terre Alte Livio Felluga 2009 .....................24 Cortona Smeriglio Baracchi 2010.....................................................10 Dolcetto D'alba Barturot Ca Viola 2010 ..........................................85 Etna Bianco Cottanera 2012 .............................................................27 Etna Rosso Pietradolce 2008 ..............................................................9 Etna Rosso Pietradolce 2009 ..............................................................9 Etna Rosso Pietradolce 2010 ..............................................................9 Falanghina Del Sannio Mastroberardino 2011...............................25 Faro Quattroenne Hauner (Gianfranco Sabatino) 2010 ...............8 Fiano Di Avellino Campanaro Feudi Di San Gregorio 2009 ........26 Fiano Di Avellino Donnachiara 2011 ................................................64 Franciacorta Gran Brut Cuvée Bellavista 2007 .............................23 Franciacorta Gran Cuvée Rosé Bellavista 2007 ............................23 Franciacorta Vittorio Moretti Bellavista 2004 .................................23 Frappato Vittoria Valle Dell Acate 2012 ...........................................7 Gavi Monterotondo Villa Sparina 2010 ............................................5 Gavi Villa Sparina 2011........................................................................5 Giramonte Marchesi De Frescobaldi 2009 .....................................46 Giusto Di Notri Tua Rita 2009..............................................................96 Greco Di Tufo Cutizzi Feudi Di San Gregorio 2009 .........................26 Guado Al Tasso Marchesi Antinori 2009 ..........................................22 Il Blu Brancaia 2008.............................................................................59 Il Caberlot Podere Il Carnasciale 2007 ...........................................20 Il Caberlot Podere Il Carnasciale 2009 ...........................................20 Ilatraia Brancaia 2009 ........................................................................59 Irpinia Coda Di Volpe Donnachiara 2011 .......................................64 Irpinia Serpico Feudi Di San Gregorio 2007 ....................................26 Isola Dei Nuraghi Barrua Agricola Punica 2009 ........................... 38 Isola Dei Nuraghi Montessu Agricola Punica 2010 ....................... 38 Isola Dei Nuraghi Samas Agricola Punica 2012 ............................ 38 Marche Cosmino Il Pollenza 2008 ....................................................92 Marche Porpora Il Pollenza 2009......................................................92 Marche Rosso Il Pollenza 2008 ..........................................................92 Maremma Toscana Nectar Dei Nittardi 2009 ................................97 Maremma Toscana Saffredi Le Pupille 2007 ..................................95 Montefalco Arnaldo Caprai 2011.....................................................61 Montefalco Riserva Arnaldo Caprai 2008 ......................................61 Montepulciano D’abruzzo Marina Cvetic Masciarelli 2008 ........28 Montepulciano D’abruzzo Villa Gemma Masciarelli 2005 ..........28 Montepulciano D'abruzzo Zaccagnini 2010 ..................................52 Montepulciano San Clemente Zaccagnini 2007 .........................52 Morellino Di Scansano Le Pupille 2011 .............................................95 Morellino Di Scansano Poggio Valente Le Pupille 2007 ...............95 Mormoreto Marchesi De Frescobaldi 2008 ....................................46 Nero D’avola Sicilia Saia Feudo Maccari 2010 ..............................35 Nero D'avola Feudo Maccari 2011...................................................35 Novaserra Greco Di Tufo Mastroberardino 2011............................25 Oreno Tenuta Sette Ponti 2009 .........................................................36 Oreno Tenuta Sette Ponti 2010 ..........................................................36 Orma 2007 ............................................................................................51 Orma 2008 ...........................................................................................51 Orma 2009............................................................................................51 Ornellaia Tenuta Dell’ornellaia 2005 ...............................................50

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Wine (Alphabetically) Wine

Table

Ornellaia Tenuta Dell’ornellaia 2009 ...............................................50 Passito Malvasia Delle Lipari Selezione Carlo Hauner (Gianfranco Sabatino) 2011 ...............................................................8 Pinot Grigio Colli Orientali Del Friuli Livio Felluga 2011 ................24 Pinot Nero Toscana Baracchi 2010...................................................10 Potenti Petra 2008 ...............................................................................17 Redigaffi Tua Rita 2008 .......................................................................96 Rosso Di Montalcino Argiano 2010 ..................................................107 Rosso Di Montalcino Fanti 2010........................................................106 Rosso Di Montalcino Siro Pacenti 2010 ............................................91 Sagrantino Di Montefalco Venticinque Anni Arnaldo Caprai 2005 ...61 Salina Antonello Hauner (Gianfranco Sabatino) 2008 .................8 Sangiovese Cortona Baracchi 2010 ...............................................10 Sassicaia Tenuta San Guido 2006 ....................................................37 Sassicaia Tenuta San Guido 2007.....................................................37 Sassicaia Tenuta San Guido 2008 ....................................................37 Sassicaia Tenuta San Guido 2010 .....................................................37 Sauvignon Piere Isonzo Vie Di Romans 2009 ...................................3 Sicilia Angimbè Cusumano 2011 .......................................................4 Sicilia Bianco Barbazzale Cottanera 2012 ......................................27 Sicilia Chardonnay Jalè Cusumano 2011 ........................................4 Sicilia Chardonnay Planeta 2010 .....................................................29 Sicilia Ghiaia Nera Tasca D'almerita 2010 ......................................34 Sicilia Grillo Feudo Maccari 2011 .....................................................35 Sicilia Hieria Hauner (Gianfranco Sabatino) 2011 ..........................8 Sicilia Merlot Sito Dell’ulmo Planeta 2008 .......................................29 Sicilia Nero D'avola Cusumano 2011 ................................................4 Sicilia Noto Santa Cecilia Planeta 2008 ..........................................29 Sicilia Rosso Barbazzale Cottanera 2012 ........................................27 Sicilia Tane Valle Dell Acate 2010 ......................................................7 Sicilia Tascante Tasca D’almerita 2009 ...........................................34 Siepi Fonterutoli Mazzei 2008 ............................................................14 Sister Moon Il Palagio 2008 ................................................................32 Soave Classico Calvarino Pieropan 2010 ........................................1 Soave Classico La Rocca Pieropan 2010 .........................................1 Soave Classico Superiore Vigneto Du Lot Inama 2010 ..................2 Soave Classico Vigneti Di Foscarino Vecchie Vigne Inama 2011 .........2 Solaia Marchesi Antinori 2009...........................................................22 Solengo Argiano 2009 .......................................................................107 Spelt La Valentina 2008......................................................................33 Syrah Tua Rita 2008 .............................................................................96 Taurasi Donnachiara 2008.................................................................68 Taurasi Radici Mastroberardino 2007 ..............................................25 Testamatta Bibi Graetz 2009 .............................................................93 Testamatta Colore Bibi Graetz 2005 ................................................93 Testamatta Soffocone Di Vincigliata Bibi Graetz 2010 .................93 Tignanello Marchesi Antinori 2009 ...................................................22 Toscana Batar Querciabella 2009 ....................................................6 Toscana Bianco Diadema 2010 ........................................................63 Toscana Biserno Tenuta Di Biserno 2008 .........................................65 Toscana Biserno Tenuta Di Biserno 2009 .........................................65 Toscana Caiarossa 2006 ....................................................................49 Toscana Caiarossa 2007 ....................................................................49 Toscana Caiarossa 2008 ....................................................................49 Toscana Camartina Querciabella 2008 ..........................................6 Toscana Corbaia Castello Di Bossi 2008 .........................................66

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118 69 82 31 97 127 29 60 116 30 69 31 123 123 123 123 131 53 52 53 102 117 65 69 102 53 102 52 130 117 85 120 99 99 76 76 83 29 81 127 58 99 33 33 33 83 109 56 119 119 44 44 44 109 44

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Wine (Alphabetically) Wine

Table

Toscana Crognolo Tenuta Sette Ponti 2010 ....................................36 Toscana Diadema 2009 .....................................................................63 Toscana Diadema 2010 .....................................................................63 Toscana Do Ut Des Carpineta Fontalpino 2009 .............................55 Toscana Fontalloro Felsina 2008.......................................................13 Toscana Galatrona Petrolo 2009 .....................................................31 Toscana Giorgio Primo La Massa 2009 ............................................99 Toscana Giorgio Primo La Massa 2010 ............................................99 Toscana Girolamo Castello Di Bossi 2007 .......................................66 Toscana Gratius Il Molino Di Grace 2007 ...................................... 100 Toscana Il Borgo Tenute Del Cabreo (Tenute Ambrogio E Giovanni Folonari) 2009 ............................... 48 Toscana Il Borro 2009 ..........................................................................94 Toscana Il Pino Di Biserno Tenuta Di Biserno 2007..........................65 Toscana Il Volano Il Molino Di Grace 2008 ................................... 100 Toscana Inversus Casaloste 2009 .....................................................54 Toscana La Massa 2010 ......................................................................99 Toscana Lodovico Tenuta Di Biserno 2008......................................65 Toscana Luce Tenuta Luce Della Vite 2009 ....................................67 Toscana Lucente Tenuta Luce Della Vite 2010...............................67 Toscana Marsiliana Principe Corsini 2007.......................................18 Toscana Monte Antico (Empson) 2009 ...........................................21 Toscana Monteverro 2008 .................................................................98 Toscana Monteverro 2009 .................................................................98 Toscana Petra 2006.............................................................................17 Toscana Petra 2007 .............................................................................17 Toscana Pian Di Nova Il Borro 2010 ..................................................94 Toscana Pietradonice Casanova Di Neri 2009 .............................103 Toscana Polissena Il Borro 2009 ........................................................94 Toscana Prima Pietra Castiglion Del Bosco 2009 .........................104 Toscana Prunaio Viticcio 2007 ..........................................................12 Toscana Re Di Renieri Renieri 2009 .................................................101 Toscana Ripa Delle More Castello Vicchiomaggio 2009 ............56 Toscana Rosso Il Brecciolino Castelvecchio 2007 .........................57 Toscana Rosso Orme In Rosso Castelvecchio 2009 ......................57 Toscana Sotirio Podernuovo 2009 ....................................................19 Toscana Tinata Monteverro 2009 .....................................................98 Toscana Torrione Petrolo 2009 ..........................................................31 Toscana Torrione Petrolo 2010 ..........................................................31 Toscana Zac Principe Corsini 2008 ..................................................18 Trebbiano D'abruzzo Castello Di Semi-Vicoli Masciarelli 2008 ..28 Trebbiano D’abruzzo Marina Cvetic Masciarelli 2009.................28 Umbria Elcione Vitalonga .................................................................62 Umbria Phiculle Vitalonga ................................................................62 Umbria Terra Di Confi ne Vitalonga ..................................................62 Vaio Armaron Masi 2006 ....................................................................60 Valpolicella Ripasso Tommasi 2011 ................................................. 30 Veneto Bradisismo Inama 2008 ........................................................2

18

15% OFF ALL WINES TASTED TONIGHT!*

Page

124 56 56 39 63 98 77 77 44 73 124 72 119 73 40 77 119 122 122 107 59 92 92 97 97 72 41 72 48 62 111 46 47 47 103 92 98 98 107 86 86 133 133 133 87 126 76

Wine (By Score) Wine

Table

Page

100 Points Barolo Riserva Rocche Del Falletto Bruno Giacosa 2007 .................. 83 Brunello Di Montalcino Madonna Del Piano Riserva Valdicava 2006....72

35 129

98 Points Amarone Campolongo Di Torbe Masi 2006 ........................................ 60 Barolo Bricco Rocche Ceretto 2008 ....................................................... 44 Brunello Di Montalcino Valdicava 2007 ................................................ 72 Redigaffi Tua Rita 2008 ...............................................................................96

87 49 129 127

97 Points Barolo Ornato Pio Cesare 2008 ................................................................81 Barolo Pajana Domenico Clerico 2007 ..................................................16 Barolo Rocche Dell’annunziata Torriglione Roberto Voerzio 2008 .......42 Brunello Di Montalcino Cerretalto Casanova Di Neri 2007 .............. 103 Brunello Di Montalcino Tenuta Luce Della Vite 2007 ..........................67 Brunello Di Montalcino Valdicava 2006 ................................................ 72 Guado Al Tasso Marchesi Antinori 2009 ................................................ 22 Il Caberlot Podere Il Carnasciale 2007 .................................................. 20 Toscana Galatrona Petrolo 2009 .............................................................31 Toscana Giorgio Primo La Massa 2009 .................................................. 99

101 57 112 41 122 129 83 104 98 77

96 Points Amarone Della Valpolicella Vigna Garzon Pieropan 2009................1 Barolo Cannubi Damilano 2008.............................................................. 87 Barolo Cicala Poderi Aldo Conterno 2008 ........................................... 78 Barolo Colonnello Poderi Aldo Conterno 2008 ................................... 78 Brunello Di Montalcino Poggio Alle Mura Castello Banfi 2007 ......... 68 Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva Fuligni 2006 ..........................................76 Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva Gemini La Serena 2006 ................... 105 Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva Uccelliera 2007 ...................................71 Il Caberlot Podere Il Carnasciale 2009 .................................................. 20 Maremma Toscana Saffredi Le Pupille 2007 .........................................95 Oreno Tenuta Sette Ponti 2010 ................................................................. 36 Ornellaia Tenuta Dell’ornellaia 2009 ...................................................... 50 Passito Malvasia Delle Lipari Selezione Carlo Hauner (Gianfranco Sabatino) 2011 .......................................................................8 Solaia Marchesi Antinori 2009.................................................................. 22 Toscana Giorgio Primo La Massa 2010................................................... 99 Toscana Inversus Casaloste 2009 ............................................................ 54 Toscana Prima Pietra Castiglion Del Bosco 2009 ............................... 104

99 54 106 106 43 68 79 128 104 61 124 118 69 83 77 40 48

95 Points Barbaresco Asili Bruno Giacosa 2008 .................................................... 83 Barbaresco Il Bricco Pio Cesare 2008 .....................................................81 Barbaresco Vigneto Valeirano La Spinetta 2009 ................................ 43 Barolo Cannubi Gianni Gagliardo 2008 ............................................... 39 Barolo Le Rocche Del Falletto Bruno Giacosa 2009 ........................... 83 Barolo Prapo Ceretto 2007 ....................................................................... 44 Barolo Riserva Fossati Case Nere Roberto Voerzio 2003 (0,75 L) ..... 42 Barolo Rocche Renato Ratti 2008 ........................................................... 69 Brunello Di Montalcino Fanti 2007.......................................................... 106 Brunello Di Montalcino La Casa Caparzo 2006................................... 77 Brunello Di Montalcino La Rasina 2007 .................................................. 70 Brunello Di Montalcino Poggio All’oro Riserva Castello Banfi 2007 ... 68 Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva Caparzo 2006..................................... 77

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35 101 80 71 35 49 112 110 60 38 78 43 38

19

Wine (By Score) Wine

Table

Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva Castelgiocondo Marchesi De Frescobaldi 2006 ................................................................ 46 Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva Fanti 2007 .......................................... 106 Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva Fuligni 2007...........................................76 Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva Il Poggione 2007 ............................... 102 Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva Pianrosso Ciacci Piccolomini 2006 ......89 Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva Renieri 2006.........................................101 Brunello Di Montalcino Tenute Silvio Nardi 2007 ...................................75 Chianti Classico Vigna Del Sorbo Riserva Fontodi 2009 .................... 58 Colli Della Toscana Centrale Flaccianello Della Pieve Fontodi 2009 ...58 Etna Rosso Pietradolce 2009 ......................................................................9 Franciacorta Vittorio Moretti Bellavista 2004 ....................................... 23 Montepulciano D’abruzzo Marina Cvetic Masciarelli 2008 ............. 28 Mormoreto Marchesi De Frescobaldi 2008 .......................................... 46 Oreno Tenuta Sette Ponti 2009 ................................................................ 36 Orma 2008.....................................................................................................51 Orma 2009.....................................................................................................51 Ornellaia Tenuta Dell’ornellaia 2005 ...................................................... 50 Syrah Tua Rita 2008 ......................................................................................96 Testamatta Bibi Graetz 2009 .................................................................... 93 Testamatta Colore Bibi Graetz 2005....................................................... 93 Toscana Biserno Tenuta Di Biserno 2009 ................................................ 65 Toscana Il Borgo Tenute Del Cabreo (Tenute Ambrogio E Giovanni Folonari) 2009 ...................................... 48 Toscana Lodovico Tenuta Di Biserno 2008 ............................................ 65 Toscana Luce Tenuta Luce Della Vite 2009 ...........................................67 Toscana Monteverro 2009 ........................................................................ 98 Toscana Pietradonice Casanova Di Neri 2009 ................................... 103 Toscana Re Di Renieri Renieri 2009 .........................................................101

Page

84 60 68 74 50 111 125 67 67 100 32 86 84 124 95 95 118 127 33 33 119 124 119 122 92 41 111

94 Points Barbera Bionzo La Spinetta 2009 ........................................................... 43 Barolo Brunate Bricco Rocche Ceretto 2008 ....................................... 44 Barolo Bussia Poderi Aldo Conterno 2008............................................. 78 Barolo Campe Riserva La Spinetta 2007 ............................................... 43 Barolo Conca Renato Ratti 2008............................................................. 69 Barolo Le Coste-Mosconi Parusso 2008 ................................................. 88 Barolo Margheria Massolino 2007........................................................... 45 Barolo Sori Ginestra Conterno Fantino 2008 .........................................41 Barolo Vigna Conca Mauro Molino 2008 ............................................ 84 Barolo Vigna Rionda Riserva Massolino 2004 ...................................... 45 Bolgheri Superiore Sapaio Podere Sapaio 2008 ..................................47 Brunello Di Montalcino Il Poggione 2007.............................................. 102 Brunello Di Montalcino La Rasina 2008.................................................. 70 Brunello Di Montalcino La Serena 2007 ................................................ 105 Brunello Di Montalcino Le Lucére Riserva San Filippo 2006 .............. 90 Brunello Di Montalcino Le Lucére San Filippo 2007 ............................ 90 Brunello Di Montalcino Le Lucére San Filippo 2008 ............................ 90 Brunello Di Montalcino Renieri 2007 .......................................................101 Brunello Di Montalcino San Polino 2007 .................................................74 Brunello Di Montalcino Scopone 2006 .................................................. 73 Brunello Di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova Casanova Di Neri 2008....... 103 Brunello Di Montalcino Uccelliera 2007..................................................71 Brunello Di Montalcino Vigneto Manachiara Tenute Silvio Nardi 2007 ..75 Chianti Classico Riserva Viticcio 2009 ....................................................12 Etna Rosso Pietradolce 2010.......................................................................9 Franciacorta Gran Cuvée Rosé Bellavista 2007 .................................. 23

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15% OFF ALL WINES TASTED TONIGHT!*

80 99 106 80 110 96 88 51 90 88 105 74 78 79 113 113 113 111 114 115 41 128 125 62 100 32

Wine (By Score) Wine

Table

Page

Giramonte Marchesi De Frescobaldi 2009 ........................................... 46 Giusto Di Notri Tua Rita 2009 ......................................................................96 Ilatraia Brancaia 2009................................................................................ 59 Montepulciano D’abruzzo Villa Gemma Masciarelli 2005 ............... 28 Morellino Di Scansano Poggio Valente Le Pupille 2007......................95 Pinot Nero Toscana Baracchi 2010 ..........................................................10 Sangiovese Cortona Baracchi 2010 .......................................................10 Sassicaia Tenuta San Guido 2006 ............................................................37 Sassicaia Tenuta San Guido 2007 ............................................................37 Sassicaia Tenuta San Guido 2008 ............................................................37 Sassicaia Tenuta San Guido 2010 .............................................................37 Sister Moon Il Palagio 2008 ....................................................................... 32 Soave Classico La Rocca Pieropan 2010 ................................................1 Soave Classico Superiore Vigneto Du Lot Inama 2010 ........................2 Solengo Argiano 2009 .............................................................................. 107 Toscana Biserno Tenuta Di Biserno 2008 ................................................ 65 Toscana Torrione Petrolo 2009 ..................................................................31

84 127 34 86 61 31 31 123 123 123 123 120 99 76 29 119 98

93 Points Barbera D'alba Bric Du Luv Ca Viola 2010 ............................................ 85 Barbera Del Monferrato Superiore Rivalta Villa Sparina 2009 ...........5 Barolo Aeroplan Servaj Domenico Clerico 2007 .................................16 Barolo Cannubi Cascina Adelaide 2008 .............................................. 86 Barolo Cannubi Giacomo Borgogno 2008 .......................................... 79 Barolo Cerequio Michele Chiarlo 2007 ..................................................15 Barolo Ciabot Mentin Domenico Clerico 2008 ....................................16 Barolo La Rosa Fontanafredda 2008...................................................... 80 Barolo Marcenasco Renato Ratti 2008.................................................. 69 Barolo Mauro Molino 2008........................................................................ 84 Barolo Mosconi Conterno Fantino 2008 .................................................41 Barolo Parafada Massolino2007.............................................................. 45 Barolo Parusso 2008 ................................................................................... 88 Barolo Pio Cesare 2008...............................................................................81 Barolo Preda Cascina Adelaide 2007 ................................................... 86 Barolo Sottocastello Ca Viola 2007 ........................................................ 85 Barolo Tortoniano Michele Chiarlo 2007 ................................................15 Barolo Vigna Gallinotto Mauro Molino 2008........................................ 84 Bellovedere La Valentina 2007 ................................................................ 33 Bianco Flors Di Uis Isonzo Vie Di Romans 2009........................................3 Binomio La Valentina 2008 ....................................................................... 33 Bolgheri Baia Al Vento Tenuta Campo Al Mare Superiore (Tenute Ambrogio E Giovanni Folonari) 2009 ...................................... 48 Brunello Di Montalcino Campo Del Drago Castiglion Del Bosco 2006....104 Brunello Di Montalcino Caparzo 2007 ................................................... 77 Brunello Di Montalcino Castello Banfi 2008 .......................................... 68 Brunello Di Montalcino Ciacci Piccolomini Pianrosso 2008 .............. 89 Brunello Di Montalcino Fuligni 2008.........................................................76 Brunello Di Montalcino Helichrysum San Polino 2007 ........................74 Brunello Di Montalcino Il Divasco La Rasina 2007 ............................... 70 Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva Scopone 2006 .................................... 73 Brunello Di Montalcino San Polino 2008 .................................................74 Brunello Di Montalcino Siro Pacenti 2008...............................................91 Brunello Di Montalcino Tenuta La Fuga (Tenute Ambrogio E Giovanni Folonari) 2007 ...................................... 48 Brunello Di Montalcino Uccelliera 2008..................................................71 Castello Di Fonterutoli Mazzei 2006 .........................................................14 Chianti Classico Don Tommaso Principe Corsini 2007 ........................18

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36 132 57 42 70 91 57 66 110 90 51 88 96 101 42 36 91 90 81 131 81 124 48 38 43 50 68 114 78 115 114 116 124 128 85 107

21

Wine (By Score) Wine

Table

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Chianti Classico Fontodi 2009.................................................................. 58 Chianti Classico Riserva Carpineta Fontalpino 2009 ......................... 55 Chianti Classico Riserva Castello Di Querceto 2009 .......................... 53 Chianti Classico Riserva Nittardi 2009 .....................................................97 Colli Della Toscana Centrale Il Sole Di Alessandro Castello Di Querceto 2008 ....................................................................... 53 Colli Della Toscana Centrale La Corte Castello Di Querceto 2008 53 Colli Orientali Del Friuli Rosso Sosso Riserva Livio Felluga 2006 ........ 24 Colli Orientali Del Friuli Terre Alte Livio Felluga 2009 ........................... 24 Gavi Monterotondo Villa Sparina 2010....................................................5 Il Blu Brancaia 2008 .................................................................................... 59 Irpinia Serpico Feudi Di San Gregorio 2007 .......................................... 26 Marche Porpora Il Pollenza 2009............................................................. 92 Maremma Toscana Nectar Dei Nittardi 2009 .......................................97 Montefalco Riserva Arnaldo Caprai 2008 .............................................61 Montepulciano San Clemente Zaccagnini 2007 ............................... 52 Nero D’avola Sicilia Saia Feudo Maccari 2010 .................................... 35 Sagrantino Di Montefalco Venticinque Anni Arnaldo Caprai 2005 .......61 Sauvignon Piere Isonzo Vie Di Romans 2009 ..........................................3 Sicilia Chardonnay Planeta 2010 ............................................................ 29 Sicilia Noto Santa Cecilia Planeta 2008................................................. 29 Siepi Fonterutoli Mazzei 2008 ....................................................................14 Taurasi Radici Mastroberardino 2007 ..................................................... 25 Tignanello Marchesi Antinori 2009.......................................................... 22 Toscana Caiarossa 2006 ........................................................................... 49 Toscana Caiarossa 2008 ........................................................................... 49 Toscana Camartina Querciabella 2008 .................................................6 Toscana Diadema 2010............................................................................. 63 Toscana Do Ut Des Carpineta Fontalpino 2009................................... 55 Toscana Fontalloro Felsina 2008...............................................................13 Toscana Girolamo Castello Di Bossi 2007 .............................................. 66 Toscana Il Borro 2009...................................................................................94 Toscana Il Pino Di Biserno Tenuta Di Biserno 2007 ................................ 65 Toscana Lucente Tenuta Luce Della Vite 2010......................................67 Toscana Prunaio Viticcio 2007..................................................................12 Toscana Rosso Il Brecciolino Castelvecchio 2007 ............................... 57 Toscana Tinata Monteverro 2009 ............................................................ 98 Toscana Torrione Petrolo 2010...................................................................31 Toscana Zac Principe Corsini 2008 ..........................................................18 Umbria Phiculle Vitalonga ........................................................................ 62 Vaio Armaron Masi 2006 ........................................................................... 60 Veneto Bradisismo Inama 2008 ................................................................2

67 39 45 73 45 45 82 82 132 34 64 75 73 30 134 65 30 131 102 102 85 99 83 44 44 109 56 39 63 44 72 119 122 62 47 92 98 107 133 87 76

92 Points Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico Tommasi 2008 ......................... 30 Amarone Della Valpolicella Tommasi 2009 ......................................... 30 Barolo Cannubi Michele Chiarlo 2007....................................................15 Barolo Fossati Cascina Adelaide 2008 .................................................. 86 Barolo Giacomo Borgogno 2006 ............................................................ 79 Barolo La Serra Roberto Voerzio 2008.................................................... 42 Barolo Liste Damilano 2008 ...................................................................... 87 Barolo Riserva Giacomo Borgogno 1982 .............................................. 79 Barolo Serre Gianni Gagliardo 2008 ...................................................... 39 Barolo Villero Oddero 2008 ...................................................................... 82 Bolgheri Superiore Sapaio Podere Sapaio 2007 ..................................47 Brunello Di Montalcino Argiano 2007 ................................................... 107 Brunello Di Montalcino Castiglion Del Bosco 2007 ........................... 104

22

15% OFF ALL WINES TASTED TONIGHT!*

126 126 91 42 70 112 54 70 71 94 105 29 48

Wine (By Score) Wine

Table

Page

Brunello Di Montalcino La Serena 2008 ................................................ 105 Brunello Di Montalcino Leonardo Da Vinci 2007..................................11 Brunello Di Montalcino Pelagrilli Siro Pacenti 2008 ..............................91 Brunello Di Montalcino Scopone 2007................................................... 73 Brunello Di Montalcino Vigneto Manachiara Tenute Silvio Nardi 2006 ..75 Casino Delle Vie Il Palagio 2009 .............................................................. 32 Chianti Classico Carpineta Fontalpino 2010 ........................................ 55 Chianti Classico Castello Di Bossi 2009 .................................................. 66 Chianti Classico Rancia Felsina 2009 ......................................................13 Chianti Classico Riserva Casaloste 2007 ............................................... 54 Chianti Classico Toscolo (Empson) 2009 ................................................21 Chianti Classico Viticcio 2009...................................................................12 Chianti Vigna La Prima Riserva Castello Vicchiomaggio 2009 ....... 56 Etna Bianco Cottanera 2012 .................................................................... 27 Faro Quattroenne Hauner (Gianfranco Sabatino) 2010 .....................8 Fiano Di Avellino Campanaro Feudi Di San Gregorio 2009.............. 26 Greco Di Tufo Cutizzi Feudi Di San Gregorio 2009............................... 26 Isola Dei Nuraghi Barrua Agricola Punica 2009................................... 38 Marche Cosmino Il Pollenza 2008 ........................................................... 92 Orma 2007 .....................................................................................................51 Pinot Grigio Colli Orientali Del Friuli Livio Felluga 2011 ....................... 24 Potenti Petra 2008 ........................................................................................17 Salina Antonello Hauner (Gianfranco Sabatino) 2008 ........................8 Sicilia Merlot Sito Dell’ulmo Planeta 2008.............................................. 29 Sicilia Tane Valle Dell Acate 2010 ..............................................................7 Soave Classico Calvarino Pieropan 2010................................................1 Soave Classico Vigneti Di Foscarino Vecchie Vigne Inama 2011 .....2 Spelt La Valentina 2008 ............................................................................. 33 Toscana Caiarossa 2007 ........................................................................... 49 Toscana Crognolo Tenuta Sette Ponti 2010 .......................................... 36 Toscana Gratius Il Molino Di Grace 2007.............................................. 100 Toscana La Massa 2010 ............................................................................. 99 Toscana Petra 2007 .....................................................................................17 Toscana Polissena Il Borro 2009 ................................................................94 Toscana Ripa Delle More Castello Vicchiomaggio 2009 ................. 56 Toscana Sotirio Podernuovo 2009............................................................19 Trebbiano D'abruzzo Castello Di Semi-Vicoli Masciarelli 2008 ........ 28 Trebbiano D’abruzzo Marina Cvetic Masciarelli 2009 ...................... 28 Umbria Terra Di Confine Vitalonga......................................................... 62

79 55 116 115 125 120 39 44 63 40 59 62 46 52 69 64 64 28 75 95 82 97 69 102 130 99 76 81 44 124 73 77 97 72 46 103 86 86 133

91 Points Barbaresco Gallina Oddero 2008 .......................................................... 82 Barbaresco Prunotto 2009 ........................................................................ 40 Barolo Bussia Parusso 2008 ....................................................................... 88 Barolo Bussia Prunotto 2005...................................................................... 40 Barolo Gianni Gagliardo 2008................................................................. 39 Barolo La Rosa Fontanafredda 1998 ...................................................... 80 Barolo Lecinquevigne Damilano 2008 .................................................. 87 Barolo Oddero 2008................................................................................... 82 Barolo Vigna Del Gris Conterno Fantino 2008 ......................................41 Brunello Di Montalcino Ciacci Piccolomini 2008 ................................ 86 Brunello Di Montalcino Il Poggione 2008 ............................................. 102 Cerasuolo Di Vittoria Classico Valle Dell Acate 2010 ...........................7 Chardonnay Ciampagnis Vieris Isonzo Vie Di Romans 2009 .............3 Chianti Classico Felsina 2010.....................................................................13 Chianti Classico Riserva Brancaia 2009 ................................................ 59 Chianti Classico Riserva Il Molino Di Grace 2008 ............................... 100

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94 108 96 108 71 66 54 94 51 50 74 130 131 63 34 73

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Wine (By Score) Wine

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Chianti Classico Riserva Toscolo (Empson) 2007 ..................................21 Dolcetto D'alba Barturot Ca Viola 2010 ................................................ 85 Etna Rosso Pietradolce 2008 ......................................................................9 Falanghina Del Sannio Mastroberardino 2011..................................... 25 Gavi Villa Sparina 2011 ................................................................................5 Irpinia Coda Di Volpe Donnachiara 2011 ............................................. 64 Isola Dei Nuraghi Samas Agricola Punica 2012 ................................... 38 Marche Rosso Il Pollenza 2008 ................................................................. 92 Rosso Di Montalcino Siro Pacenti 2010 ....................................................91 Sicilia Grillo Feudo Maccari 2011............................................................. 35 Sicilia Tascante Tasca D’almerita 2009 .................................................. 34 Toscana Batar Querciabella 2009 ............................................................6 Toscana Corbaia Castello Di Bossi 2008................................................ 66 Toscana Diadema 2009 ............................................................................ 63 Toscana Marsiliana Principe Corsini 2007 ..............................................18 Toscana Monteverro 2008 ........................................................................ 98 Toscana Petra 2006 .....................................................................................17 Toscana Rosso Orme In Rosso Castelvecchio 2009 ............................ 57

59 36 100 99 132 58 28 75 116 65 117 109 44 56 107 92 97 47

90 Points Barolo Prunotto 2008.................................................................................. 40 Barolo Serralunga D'alba Fontanafredda 2008 .................................. 80 Bolgheri Le Serre Nuove Tenuta Dell’ornellaia 2010............................ 50 Bolgheri Volpolo Podere Sapaio 2010.....................................................47 Brolo Di Campofiorin Masi 2009 .............................................................. 60 Chianti Classico Casaloste 2009 ............................................................. 54 Chianti Classico Fonterutoli Mazzei 2010................................................14 Chianti Classico Nittardi 2010....................................................................97 Chianti Classico Querciabella 2009.........................................................6 Chianti Classico Riserva Castello Vicchiomaggio 2009...........................56 Chianti Colli Fiorentini Vigna La Quercia Riserva Castelvecchio 2008 ...57 Cortona Smeriglio Baracchi 2010 ............................................................10 Fiano Di Avellino Donnachiara 2011....................................................... 64 Franciacorta Gran Brut Cuvée Bellavista 2007 ................................... 23 Frappato Vittoria Valle Dell Acate 2012 ..................................................7 Isola Dei Nuraghi Montessu Agricola Punica 2010 .............................. 38 Montefalco Arnaldo Caprai 2011 ............................................................61 Montepulciano D'abruzzo Zaccagnini 2010 ........................................ 52 Morellino Di Scansano Le Pupille 2011 ....................................................95 Nero D'avola Feudo Maccari 2011 ......................................................... 35 Rosso Di Montalcino Argiano 2010......................................................... 107 Rosso Di Montalcino Fanti 2010............................................................... 106 Sicilia Angimbè Cusumano 2011 ...............................................................4 Sicilia Bianco Barbazzale Cottanera 2012 ............................................ 27 Sicilia Chardonnay Jalè Cusumano 2011 ...............................................4 Sicilia Ghiaia Nera Tasca D'almerita 2010 ............................................. 34 Sicilia Hieria Hauner (Gianfranco Sabatino) 2011 .................................8 Sicilia Nero D'avola Cusumano 2011 ........................................................4 Sicilia Rosso Barbazzale Cottanera 2012 ............................................... 27 Taurasi Donnachiara 2008........................................................................ 64 Testamatta Soffocone Di Vincigliata Bibi Graetz 2010 ....................... 93 Toscana Bianco Diadema 2010 .............................................................. 63 Toscana Il Volano Il Molino Di Grace 2008 .......................................... 100 Toscana Monte Antico (Empson) 2009 ...................................................21 Toscana Pian Di Nova Il Borro 2010 ..........................................................94 Umbria Elcione Vitalonga......................................................................... 62 Valpolicella Ripasso Tommasi 2011 ......................................................... 30

24

15% OFF ALL WINES TASTED TONIGHT!*

108 66 118 105 87 40 85 73 109 46 47 31 58 32 130 28 30 134 61 65 29 60 53 52 53 117 69 53 52 58 33 56 73 59 72 133 126

Tasting Italian Wines Today Great Italian wines are no different to taste than other great wines, whether they are from France, Spain, Germany, Australia, the United States or elsewhere. It’s all a question of deciding a wine’s quality through the interplay of fruit, alcohol and acidity, as well as tannins in red wines.

When all are in balance, you will encounter a great wine.

One difference with Italian wines, however, is that most are made with food in mind. Italians always consider how and when best to drink their wines – whether at a simple lunch or a formal dinner. Italian wines have a wonderful freshness to prepare the drinker’s palate for each morsel of food that accompanies them. In addition, Italy produces thousands of different wines from indigenous grape types, as well as from international ones. The most popular local grape varieties are Sangiovese (used in Brunello di Montalcinos) and Nebbiolo (in Barolos), and many lesser-known types are also planted, so be prepared for new tasting experiences. Wines made from Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay are more familiar to most drinkers, but when they are made in Italy there’s a distinctive character to the wines, mostly due to the naturally fresh acidity. Most of the wines being served today are young, so try to anticipate how they will improve with age.

Great Italian wines, however, are delicious to drink in their youth. Use this booklet as a guide and simply circle tasting descriptors or write your own, evaluating colour, aroma, structure and overall impression. —JS

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The Value of Great Italian Wines A handful of great Italian wines have come into their own in auction rooms around the world in recent years, with top private-client retailers and auction houses reporting growth in interest and prices for most impressive bottles.

“Italian wine, specifically the Super Tuscans, has been a story of diversification of late as the market has seen broadening away from Bordeaux and into Burgundies and Italian wines,” says Anthony Maxwell, a director of London-based fine wine trading platform Liv-ex, which also tracks prices. “Over a five year period, Super Tuscans have outperformed the Liv-ex 50 Index [of five Bordeaux fi rst growths in the last 10 physical vintages].”

Liv-ex shows that a handful of top Tuscan wines, when banded together, has more than doubled in value in the last five years. The biggest gainer has been Masseto, the famous pure Merlot from Tuscany’s coastal region of Bolgheri, followed by Ornellaia, Tignanello, Sassicaia and Solaia. Just five years ago, a current vintage of Masseto sold for about $300 a bottle. Today, its price approaches $600. Sassicaia was about $100 a bottle in 2007. Now, it sells for almost double that.

I see only advantages in collecting in and investing in the best of Tuscany and Piedmont. Most of the leading wines 26

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from Tuscany are already collectible, as noted by Liv-ex.

However, investors and collectors should not overlook the best Brunellos, such as Casanova di Neri and Valdicava, as well as the growing number of lesser-known Super Tuscans, such as the wines of Castello dei Rampolla and Petrolo Galatrona.

In Piedmont, I would advise focusing on Gaja (the famous winery of the region) and Barolo (the great appellation for Nebbiolo). Gaja’s owner and president Angelo Gaja labels his top wines as Langhe DOC, and his single-vineyard wines remain some of the most sought-after produced in Italy. Barolo is growing in popularity. Most of the top Barolos are produced in very limited quantities, and the style and quality are very similar to top Burgundies, although the grape type of Barolo – Nebbiolo – is much more tannic than Burgundy’s Pinot Noir.

Considering the string of excellent vintages in recent years, and the increase in quality wines and winemakers, I believe that a handful of Brunello di Montalcinos will also find their way into the portfolios of investors and collectors.

New names of Super Tuscan producers are sure to follow, as well.

Yet, beware. There are bears as well as bulls when considering Italian tipples as investment opportunities. “Though I love Italian wines and drink them all the time, and there are a few Italian wines that have done well at auction, overall, I would not suggest you buy Italian wines for investment, unless they are an investment in quality of life,” says Jeff Zacharia of Zachys Wine Auctions. —JS

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Agricola Punica www.agripunica.it

38

Established only 10 years ago, the estate of Agricola Punica now makes some of Sardinia’s best reds. That’s no surprise, however, because the winery’s co-founders were also producers of one of Italy’s most famous wines – the Tuscan Cabernet blend of Sassicaia. Nicolò Incisa della Rocchetta, owner of Sassicaia, and Sebastiano Rosa, Sassicaia’s former marketing manager, formed a joint-venture company with Santadi, which is one of the best cooperatives in Italy. Their top blend, Barrua, is mostly Carignano (same as Spain and France’s Carignane) with some Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The second wine of the estate, Montessu, is also delicious. Each vintage seems to go from strength to strength. —JS Agricola Punica Isola dei Nuraghi Barrua 2009 This is rounder and richer than the excellent 2009. Very pretty too with a delicious cream and berry character. Full body, with a velvety texture. Subtle fruit. 92 Points.

Agricola Punica Isola dei Nuraghi Montessu 2010 This is earthy and spicy, with blueberries, mint, and flowers on the nose. Round and velvety with lots going on. This has some seriously intense fruit. 90 Points.

Agricola Punica Isola dei Nuraghi Samas 2012 This is a new and fun white from Punica. It's full-bodied with lovely apple pie, pineapple skin and a minerally, salty undertone. Delicious wine. This is made from 80% Vermentino and 20% Chardonnay. Screw cap. Drink now. 91 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Agricola Punica Isola dei Nuraghi Barrua 2009 (92)

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Argiano

www.argiano.net

107

This beautiful wine estate in the south part of the appellation of Brunello di Montalcino has long been a leader in the region. First, it made longaging Brunellos with richness and depth, and later produced superb Super Tuscan reds, particularly the blend of Solengo and pure Sangiovese Suolo. All the reds of recent show an impressive balance and finesse with structure.

The property recently was sold to a group of Brazilian investors, who are dedicated to take Argiano to the next step in fine wine quality. Hans Vinding-diers remains the winemaker. —JS Argiano Brunello di Montalcino 2007 Blueberry and plum, with lemon rind and flowers. Full body, with chewy tannins and a bright finish.

Lemon rind character. Drink now. 92 Points.

Argiano Rosso di Montalcino 2010 Solid and chewy with blackberry and dark chocolate character. Chewy tannins yet balanced and very pretty. Really excellent from here. Drink now or hold. 90 Points.

Argiano Toscana Solengo 2009 A rich red with tar, berry, mineral, and fresh herb character. Full and velvety, with polished and caressing tannins and a flavorful finish. Layered and intense. Reminds me of the excellent 1999 Solengo.

Better in 2014. 94 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Argiano Brunello di Montalcino 2007 (92)

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Arnaldo Caprai

www.arnaldocaprai.it

61

Arnaldo Caprai makes powerful and structured reds in the region of Montefalco, Umbria. The reds are mostly made with the Sagrantino grape, which traditionally makes wines that are tannic and structured -- even tough. Yet Caprai manages to give the wines a polish and refinement that few in his region seem to do, even though his wines still need a few years of bottle age to show their true character under the tannic backbone of Sagrantino. His top wine, the Sagrantino di Montefalco Venticinque Anni, clearly shows the metamorphosis the grape takes with bottle age. The 2005 is beautiful now and being served at the event. His whites, made from primarily Grechetto, are also worth seeking out. —JS Arnaldo Caprai Montefalco 2011 Aromas of dried strawberries, and hints of dried flowers. Full body, with firm and chewy tannins yet they are polished and fruit coated. A little austere but delicious and savory. Drink or hold. 90 Points.

Arnaldo Caprai Montefalco Riserva 2008 Very pretty depth of fruit here with currants, blackberries and lightly toasted oak character. Full body, with layered, velvety tannins and a long finish. Drink or hold. 93 Points.

Arnaldo Caprai Sagrantino di Montefalco Venticinque Anni 2005 With proper age, this red has taken on a blackberry, truffle, mineral, and we earth character. Full body, with very integrated tannins and a plenty of wood tannins as well yet it's juicy and seductive now. Drink or hold. 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Arnaldo Caprai Sagrantino di Montefalco Venticinque Anni 2005 (93)

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Baracchi

www.baracchiwinery.com

10

Many people in the world know Riccardo Baracchi as the owner and operator of the super chic hotel near Cortona of il Falconiere. However, Baracchi has also gained a following for his excellent wines, in particular the Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah blend Ardito. The vineyards of Cortona are fabulous for Syrah. The pure Syrah, Smeriglio, is equally attractive. Don't miss his Pinot Noir, Pinot Nero. It could be the best in Italy. —JS Riccardo Baracchi Cortona Smeriglio 2010 Rich and very ripe with a dried fruit, almost raisin character. Full body, with soft and silky tannins and a dark chocolate, spice and dried berry aftertaste. A little rustic but stylish. Drink now or hold. 90 Points.

Riccardo Baracchi Pinot Nero Toscana 2010 This is a phenomenal wine with a purity of Pinot Noir and richness that is hard to find in Tuscany.

It's just pure fruit. Full and tannic yet fresh and bright. Goes on for minutes. Speechless. One of the best Pinot Noirs in Italy. 94 Points.

Riccardo Baracchi Sangiovese Cortona 2010 Currants and blueberries with hints of minerals. Flowers too. Full body, with walnut, cocoa powder and fruit. Solid wine. Beautiful pure fruit. Give it three to four years to soften. 94 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Riccardo Baracchi Pinot Nero Toscana 2010 (94)

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Bellavista

www.bellavistawine.it

23

The Moretti family started making sparkling wines in northern Italy’s Franciacorta region in the late 1970s. It didn’t take Bellavista long to become one of the best producers in Italy. Some say Bellavista is Italy’s best sparkling wine. The quality of Bellavista’s wines, in fact, rivals some of the best names in Champagne. I’m particularly fond of the rosé, but the top vintage cuvée of Vittorio Moretti is even more impressive. The delicious non-vintage Brut - Bellavista Franciacorta Gran Cuvée Brut -- will be served at the beginning of the Collector's Dinner.—JS Bellavista Franciacorta Gran Cuvée Brut 2007 A wine with sliced apple, pears and lemon rind. Full-bodied, with a lovely bead but turns slightly bitter at the finish. Needs food. 90 Points.

Bellavista Franciacorta Gran Cuvée Rosé 2007 Very fine and refined with gorgeous length and beauty. Medium-to-full body with a lovely texture and a long, long finish. Love the texture and fruit to this. Subtle. Drink now. 94 Points.

Bellavista Franciacorta Vittorio Moretti 2004 This is subtle yet complex with superfine bubbles and intense aromas and flavors of Sicilian lemons and apples. Full and very intense with a lovely balance and intensity. Drink now. 95 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Bellavista Franciacorta Gran Cuvée Brut 2007 (90)

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Bibi Graetz

www.bibigraetz.com

93

Though Bibi Graetz is a relative newcomer to Tuscan winemaking, he has greatly improved the region’s global reputation in a short space of time, primarily through the superb quality of his pure Sangiovese called Testamatta. Graetz is crazy for old-vine Sangiovese, not to mention other local grape types such as Colorino. He makes his top wines on the hillsides above Florence, close to the village of Fiesole. His 2009 Testamatta is superb.—JS Bibi Graetz Toscana Colore 2005 Loads of blueberries and flowers on the nose follow through to a full body, with polished tannins and an intense finish. New wood is still showing slightly in the center palate but this is going to come together beautifully with bottle age. Made from pure Colorino from old vines on the hills overlooking Florence. Tiny production. Lovely now. 95 Points.

Bibi Graetz Toscana Soffocone di Vincigliata 2010 Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a vanilla, walnut and dried fruit character on the finish. A little austere but delicious. Always an outstanding red. Give it a year or two to soften. 90 Points.

Bibi Graetz Toscana Testamatta 2009 A wine with lots of blackberries and milk chocolate on the nose with Medium-to-full body, with fine tannins and cocoa, berry and dusty finish. Chewy and rich. Needs time to soften and mellow. Better after 2013. 95 Points. http://www.zachys.com/uploadedimages/downloads/GWINYC.pdf

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Bibi Graetz Toscana Testamatta 2009 (95)

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Brancaia

www.brancaia.com

59

With a deep dedication to quality, the Swiss Widmer family began this estate in the early 1980s. Its well-regarded Chianti Classico has always enjoyed a following, but recently its Tre has garnered more kudos as one of the bestvalue wines in Tuscany. The estate’s top wine is Il Blu, with the 2009 being one of the best ever. The Widmers also own a wine estate in Maremma, and the wines are produced under the Brancaia label.

The wonderful Bordeaux blend Ilatraia comes from here.—JS Brancaia Maremma Toscana Ilatraia 2009 This is really polished and beautiful with blueberries, vanilla and cream aromas and flavors. Full body, with soft, silky tannins and a long finish. Very fruit forward, sexy style. Better in 2012. 94 Points.

Brancaia Toscana Il Blu 2008 A big and juicy wine, with blackberries, dark chocolate and spices. Full bodied, with soft and velvety tannins with an intense finish. Rich red. Best in 2012. 93 Points.

Brancaia Chianti Classico Riserva 2009 A wine with blueberry and cherry character. Medium-to-full body, with soft tannins and a fresh finish. Tangy. Juicy. Drink now. 91 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Brancaia Toscana Il Blu 2008 (93)

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Bruno Giacosa

www.brunogiacosa.it

83

Few great winemakers from the era of Bruno Giacosa are still with us, but the 84-year-old, with the help of his daughter Bruna, remains dedicated to producing some of the most amazing red wines in the world. Bruno started making wines with his father during World War II. The Giacosas make wines with fabulous depth and finesse, like the best of Burgundy. I always compare their incredible Barolos and Barbarescos to the reds of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti. The Giacosas are pouring for the first time publicly their 2009 single vineyard Barolo. And don't forget to taste the same wine in the 2007 vintage. —JS Bruno Giacosa Barolo Le Rocche del Falletto 2009 The purity of fruit to this is truly outstanding with dried strawberries, spices and flowers. Dried roses.

Full body, with ultra-fine tannins and a beautiful fruit and tannin balance. This is a joy to taste now but will reward those who are patient. Super elegant. Wait until 2016 and see. 95 Points.

Bruno Giacosa Barbaresco Asili 2008 Aromas are full of plums and lemons that follow through to a full body, with silky tannins and a fruity, bright finish. A pretty combination of ripe fruit and crisp acidity. Needs two years to come together. Triumph for the vintage. Try in 2013. 95 Points.

Bruno Giacosa Barolo Le Rocche del Falletto Riserva 2007 This is phenomenal. Clearly perfect with layers of subtle fruit and spices and hints of chocolate. Full and very long. It builds on the palate and goes and goes. Hazelnut and dark fruits. So fresh and bright too. A fabulous and structured red. January 2013 release. 100 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Bruno Giacosa Barolo Le Rocche del Falletto Riserva 2007 (100)

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Ca’Viola

www.caviola.com

85

Beppe Caviola is one of Italy’s most revered consulting enologists, making wines from the north to the south of Italy, but his true love remains his own estate in the area of Montelupo in Piedmont. Caviola was one of the few winemakers who showed that Dolcetto is more than just a delicious young wine for drinking, instead making structured, single-vineyard reds from the variety. His Barolos are knockouts as well, and the 2007 Sotto Castello shows his deft winemaking hand with Nebbiolo. —JS Ca'Viola Barbera d'Alba Bric du Luv 2010 Focused aromas of blackberries and minerals with hints of dried flowers. Full and rich with milk chocolate, hazelnut and blueberries. Love the finish. Fantastic Barbera. Drink now. 93 Points.

Ca'Viola Barolo Sotto Castello 2007 Aromas of dark fruits with white truffles and hints of wet earth. Full-bodied, with fine tannins and a subtle berry, vanilla and spice character. Very refined. Better in 2014. 93 Points.

Ca'Viola Dolcetto d'Alba Barturot 2010 Excellent Dolcetto. Dark berry such as blueberries on the nose. Full body, with wonderful depth of fruit and intense finish. Rich and powerful. Drink now. 91 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Ca'Viola Barolo Sotto Castello 2007 (93)

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Caiarossa

www.caiarossa.com

49

Caiarossa has been making soulful wines since the early 2000s, but this coastal property began making serious reds after Dutch entrepreneur Eric Albada Jelgersma bought the estate in 2004.

The businessman also owns Bordeaux’ Château Giscours and du Tertre. The top wine of Caiarossa is a fascinating blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Alicante, Petit Verdot and Mourvèdre. All the wines are made from biodynamically grown grapes. —JS Caiarossa Toscana 2006 A bouquet of berries, flowers and minerals, taking on some spice. Fascinating blend. Full-bodied, with plenty of pretty fruit and lightly chewy tannins. Sangiovese, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Syrah, Petit Verdot and Mourvèdre. 96 Points.

Caiarossa Toscana 2007 Lots of oak on the palate, with chocolate and spices. Coffee too. Full body, with velvety tannins and a fruity finish. A little bitter from the wood. But should soften nicely with bottle age. A blend of Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauivgnon, Petit Verdot, Syrah, and Alicante. Best after 2012. 92 Points.

Caiarossa Toscana 2008 Beautiful perfumes of roses and other flowers with dark fruits. Full body, with velvety tannins and a long, intense finish. Round and mouthfilling yet so balanced and gorgeous. Drink or hold. 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Caiarossa Toscana 2004 (93) Aromas of dried fruits and plums. Very Grenache-like. Full body, juicy and rich with lots of olive oil, stones, and dark fruits in the aftertaste. Savory. Drink or hold. 93 Points.

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Caparzo

www.caparzo.it

77

This property came to fame in the 1970s as a top name for Brunello di Montalcino. Its wines have always been marked by a noble intensity and freshness. The top Brunello is La Casa, made from a single vineyard on the hill of Montosoli.

It is a denser, more racy Brunello than the other bottlings. The 2006 La Casa and regular bottlings are some of the best ever Brunellos from Caparzo. —JS Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino 2007 A wine with wonderful berry and dried strawberry character with hints of cedar. Full body, with chewy tannins and a long finish. Structured with tension. Give it two or three years but delicious already. Excellent value. 93 Points.

Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino La Casa 2006 Blackberries, licorice and dried flowers on the nose. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and lots of fruit.

Whole and complete. This is balanced and really beautiful. Better after 2014. 95 Points.

Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2006 Complex aromas of walnuts, almonds, cedar, plums, chocolate and aniseed. Full and chewy with a beautiful finish of fruit, parmigiana and berries. Lasts for minutes. So right now. 95 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino La Casa 2006 (95)

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Carpineta Fontalpino www.carpinetafontalpino.it

55

Located in one of the best parts of Chianti Classico, Carpineta Fontalpino is the estate of the brother and sister team of Gioia and Filippo Cresti. Gioia is a famous consulting oenologist in Tuscany as well. Although Carpineta Fontalpino makes excellent Chianti Classicos from its organically grown vineyards, one of its best wines is the Super Tuscan blend Do Ut Des, which is Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The wines of Carpineta Fontalpino always show finesse and depth, with a beautiful clarity of fruit. —JS Carpineta Fontalpino Chianti Classico 2010 A solid Chianti Classico, with lots of raspberries and dried strawberry character. Full and chewy with firm tannins and a fresh finish. Made from organically grown grapes. Drink now or hold. 92 Points.

Carpineta Fontalpino Chianti Classico Riserva 2009 Dense and super well crafted with dark fruits and hints of new wood. Very seriously structured CC with a beautiful intensity and polished. Made from organically grown grapes. Better in 2013. 93 Points.

Carpineta Fontalpino Toscana Do ut Des 2009 This is very fruity, with lots of berry, chocolate and cherry character. Some new wood too. Full body, with soft and velvety tannins and a fruity finish. This wine is so luscious. Made from organic grapes.

Drink now. 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Carpineta Fontalpino Chianti Classico Riserva 2009 (93)

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Casaloste

www.casaloste.com

54

The Casaloste wine estate is one of a group of Chianti Classico producers that have come to the forefront of quality in the last 10 years. All of the nearly 25 acres of vineyards near the town of Panzano are organically cultivated, and ownerwinemaker Giovanni d’Orsi crafts long and refined reds with wonderful depth of fruit and racy structure. D’Orsi makes two pure riserva Chianti Classicos that are among my favorites from the appellation: the normal bottling and the Don Vincenzo. The later is a selection of the best Sangiovese on the property. Look for the 2007. Inversus, the estate’s 2009 Super Tuscan red made from Merlot and Sangiovese, is a fabulous wine. It was one of my Top 10 Wines in 2012! —JS Casaloste Chianti Classico 2009 Delicious red, with milk chocolate, hazelnut and dried cherry character. Full and silky. Made from organic grapes. Drink now. 90 Points.

Casaloste Toscana Inversus 2009 Gorgeous aromas of crushed raspberries and blueberries. Hints of wild flowers. Full body, with super well-integrated tannins and a long, long finish. This is superb. Best wine ever from here. Made from organic grapes. Try in 2015. 96 Points.

Casaloste Chianti Classico Riserva 2007 A hint of sweet tobacco, with gorgeous aromas of plum and blackberry. This is full-bodied and delicious, with balance and concentration. Drink now. 92 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Casaloste Chianti Classico Riserva 2007 (92)

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Casanova di Neri

www.casanovadineri.it

103

Casanova di Neri is now one of Italy’s most famous wine estates thanks to incredible Brunello di Montalcinos, in particular its Tenuta Nuova and single-vineyard Cerretalto. It also makes a fabulous, pure and powerful Cabernet Sauvignon called Pietradonice. Owner Giacomo Neri has made two 100-point wines already in his career: the 2006 Casanova di Neri Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova and the 2001 Casanova di Neri Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto. The newly released Casanova di Neri Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto 2007 is not far behind. The 2008 Casanova di Neri Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova is also excellent. —JS Casanova di Neri Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto 2007 Wonderful aromas of dried berries and raspberries with hints of milk chocolate and blueberries. Full body, with velvety tannins and a long delicious finish. Drink now or hold. Wonderful wine as always.

Not the intensity of the 2006 but superb for this single vineyard wonder. Try in 2017. 97 Points.

Casanova di Neri Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova 2008 This is very floral with blackberries on the nose. It's full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a ripe fruit, caramel and berry aftertaste. Delicious for the vintage. One of the wines of the vintage. Better in 2015. 94 Points.

Casanova di Neri Toscana Pietradonice 2009 This pure Cabernet Sauvignon shows fabulous depth and richness. Currants, berries, sweet tobacco, and lead pencil aromas and flavors, it's long and invigorating to taste. The tannins are wonderfully integrated. Better in 2015. 95 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Casanova di Neri Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto 2007 (97)

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Cascina Adelaide

www.cascinaadelaide.com

86

This small winery is in the heart of Barolo and produces wholesome and stylish wines. It owns a number of the best vineyard sites including Fossati and Cannubi. It's the latter where Cascina Adelaide truly accelerates producing wines of wonderful complexity and depth with impressive finesse. Cannubi is the birthplace of Barolo. So this producer is one of the rightful guardians of such a noble place in the history of Italian wines. The only problem is they own just a little more than one acre of Cannubi! —JS Cascina Adelaide Barolo Cannubi 2008 Captivating aromas of plums, peaches and subtle spices. Full body, with polished and silky tannins.

Very long with hazelnut and light cocoa powder. Beautiful now but better in two or three years. 93 Points.

Cascina Adelaide Barolo Fossati 2008 Aromatic with plums, blackberries and Chinese tea. Full body, with firm tannins and a focused fruity finish. Lovely chocolate undertones. Drink or hold. 92 Points.

Cascina Adelaide Barolo Preda 2007 Plums, chocolate and lightly toasted oak on the nose. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins. Needs more bottle age to come together. Best after 2014. 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Cascina Adelaide Barolo Cannubi 2008 (93)

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Castello Banfi

www.castellobanfi.com

68

American-owned Castello Banfi is one of the most famous Tuscan wine producers due to its excellent Brunello di Montalcinos and its vast global distribution system. Banfi cultivates hundreds of acres of vineyards south of Montalcino, but it is its Sangiovese vines for Brunello that give Banfi the most renown. Banfi makes three Brunellos: a regular bottling, Poggio alle Mura and Poggio all’Oro. The last two are single-vineyard Brunellos. It is hard to think of a more consistently outstanding Brunello producer than Banfi. —JS Castello Banfi Brunello di Montalcino 2008 A wine with chocolate, berry and hazelnut character with hints of earth. Full body, yet reserved and balanced with a pretty aftertaste. This is really delicious. Drink now. 93 Points.

Castello Banfi Brunello di Montalcino Poggio all’Oro Riserva 2007 Plums and blackberries on the nose here. Very aromatic and clean. Full body, with chewy yet polished velvety tannins and a long, long finish. Structured and rich. Drink or hold. 95 Points

Castello Banfi Brunello di Montalcino Poggio alle Mura 2007 Aromas of ripe plums and berries and hints of tar. Full body, with velvety tannins and a lovely texture. Fruit and coffee character on the palate. Structured. Classy and powerful. Needs two or three years to soften. Better than 2006. 96 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Castello Banfi Brunello di Montalcino Poggio alle Mura 2007 (96)

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Castello di Bossi

www.castellodibossi.it

66

These vineyards near the town of Castelnuovo Berardenga are some of the best in Chianti Classico, and this estate is one of the leading producers in the area. Owner Marco Bacci is a dedicated and stylish owner and winemaker.

He also owns the Brunello estate of Renieri and Terre di Talamo in Maremma. It is not so much the Chianti Classicos that make Castello di Bossi such an excellent wine producer. Most wine lovers are more interested in the reds made from international varieties, such as the pure Merlot, called Girolamo, and the Sangiovese-Cabernet Sauvignon blend, Corbaia. —JS Castello di Bossi Chianti Classico 2009 A ripe and juicy red, with dried plums and light meats that follow through to a full body, with soft and round tannins and a long finish. Gorgeous fruit here. Drink now. 92 Points.

Castello di Bossi Toscana Corbaia 2008 A fruity red, with raspberry and blackberry character. Sweet tobacco too. Full and silky textured. A blend of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon. Better in 2012. 91 Points.

Castello di Bossi Toscana Girolamo 2007 A rich and velvety red with chocolate, licorice, lavender and blueberry character. Full body, with lovely texture and mouth feel. Long finish. Drink or hold. 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Castello di Bossi Toscana Girolamo 2007 (93)

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Castello di Querceto www.castellodiquerceto.it

53

This Chianti Classico estate has been making award-winning wines since the 1910s, but it really began bottling world-class reds in the 1980s. Under the deft hand of owner Alessandro François, Querceto has developed some excellent, age-worthy Super Tuscan reds such as the pure Sangiovese La Corte, or the Cabernet and Merlot blend Cignale. The riserva Chiantis are equally impressive. What I like about the wines here are their tension, form and structure for laying down in cellars. They improve wonderfully with age. —JS Castello di Querceto Chianti Classico Riserva 2009 Such clarity of fruit to this Chianti Classico with black cherries and blueberries and sliced mushrooms. Full body, chewy and rich. Very structured. Like a Brunello. Better in 2014. 93 Points.

Castello di Querceto Colli della Toscana Centrale Il Sole di Alessandro 2008 Chewy and rich wine with currant, berry and lemon peel character. Ripe yet reserved tannins. I like the grip and tension to this. Pure Cabernet Sauvignon. Give it at least two or three years in the bottle to soften. 93 Points.

Castello di Querceto Colli della Toscana Centrale La Corte 2008 A longtime favorite. Blackberries and chocolate on the nose follow through to a full body, with soft and round tannins and a long flavorful finish. Delicious now. 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Castello di Querceto Colli della Toscana Centrale La Corte 2008 (93)

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Castello Vicchiomaggio www.vicchiomaggio.it

56

The Matta family has been quietly making excellent wines in the Chianti Classico town a Greve in Chianti for over half of a century. My first encounter with their wines was in the 1980s when I lived in London and enjoyed their reds in various top Italian restaurants. I also first met John Matta there, who is half Italian and half English. Vicchiomaggio remains true to its long established dedication to quality — whether its the single vineyard Chianti Classico or Super Tuscan Ripa delle More, a blend of 50% Sangiovese, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 20% Merlot. The reds are outstanding quality year in, year out. —JS Castello di Vicchiomaggio Chianti Classico Vigna La Prima Riserva 2009 A wine with blueberry and cocoa with hints of walnut skin. Full and silky with ripe tannins yet reserved and fascinating. Drink now or hold. 92 Points.

Castello di Vicchiomaggio Toscana Ripa delle More 2009 A wine with very ripe plum and berry character and roast coffee and chocolate. Full, soft and opulent.

Delicious and generous wine. Drink now or hold. 92 Points.

Castello di Vicchiomaggio Chianti Classico Riserva 2009 A wine with chocolate and walnut character, medium body and silky tannins. So delicious. Drink now. 90 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Castello di Vicchiomaggio Chianti Classico Vigna La Prima Riserva 2009 (92)

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Castelvecchio in San Casciano Val di Pesa

57

www.castelvecchio.it

The appellation of Chianti dei Colli Fiorentini is known for making aromatic and delicate reds, but Castelvecchio puts a different quality spin on the region, producing racy and focused reds with pretty balance and powerful richness.

The red Il Brecciolino, a blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Petit Verdot, really impresses me. In recent years, it shows a beautiful core of pure fruit and velvety tannins. It is opulent, yet reserved.

The owners, the Rocchi family, are continuing to search their boundaries for quality winemaking. They seem to be making better and better wines every vintage. —JS Castelvecchio in San Casciano Val di Pesa Chianti Colli Fiorentini Vigna La Quercia Riserva 2008 A juicy and fruity wine, with chocolate and spices that turn to dried fruits. Full and velvety. Drink now. 90 Points.

Castelvecchio in San Casciano Val di Pesa Toscana Il Brecciolino 2007 Crushed berries and cherries, with hints of flowers. Full body, with lovely integrated ripe tannins and bright acidity. Lovely length and balance. Drink now or hold. 93 Points.

Castelvecchio in San Casciano Val di Pesa Toscana Orme in Rosso 2009 A balanced wine with plums, berries and herbs that follow through to a full body, with fine tannins and juicy finish. Very polished and pretty. I like drinking it now but it will be even better in two or three years. 91 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Castelvecchio in San Casciano Val di Pesa Toscana Il Brecciolino 2007 (93)

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Castiglion del Bosco

www.castigliondelbosco.com

104

This luxury destination – the dream of Massimo Ferragamo, of the famous Tuscan fashion family – in the hills of the wine-producing region of Brunello di Montalcino has been a boost to tourism in central Italy. Castiglion del Bosco, however, was making excellent quality Brunellos long before the hotel, spa, and golf course were built. It makes a regular Brunello as well as a single-vineyard one called Campo del Drago. The latter has more power and richness. It also has a wonderful Bordeaux blend, from the Tuscan coast, called Prima Pietra. The 2009 Prima Pietra was one of my favorite Tuscan wines tasted in 2012. —JS Castiglion del Bosco Brunello di Montalcino 2007 Aromas and flavors of plums, lemon rind and hints of pie crust. Full and velvety, with lovely fruit and a clean fresh finish. Juicy and fruity, yet balanced. Drink now or hold. 92 Points.

Castiglion del Bosco Brunello di Montalcino Campo del Drago 2006 What a nose of dark fruits from blueberries to blackberries, with hints of fresh flowers. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a lot of fruit. But it’s tight and in reserve. Best after 2014. 93 Points.

Castiglion del Bosco Toscana Prima Pietra 2009 Aromas of currants and raspberries with hints of licorice and mint. Full-bodied, with very wellintegrated tannins and wonderful length. This is very, very classic. Goes on for minutes on the palate.

Stunning third edition bottle of this Bordeaux blend from Massimo Ferragamo from his vineyards in Ripabella. Try in 2015. 96 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Castiglion del Bosco Toscana Prima Pietra 2009 (96)

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Ceretto

www.ceretto.com

44

After about 80 years of ultra-fine winemaking, the Ceretto family continues to be a winemaking reference point in Piedmont. First came Riccardo Ceretto in the 1930s. Then it was the “Barolo Brothers,” Bruno and Marcello, who changed the winemaking world with their stylish and finely crafted Nebbiolos from key vineyards in Barolo and Barbaresco. Now, the brothers’ children are fine-tuning their achievements, and moving forward at a fast pace. The Ceretto’s 2007 Nebbiolos are some of their best ever, and their single-vineyard Barolo – Bricco Rocche – is a benchmark for the region. Don’t miss them. —JS Ceretto Barolo Bricco Rocche 2008 Racy. Ripe plum almost prune with bright cherries and dried flowers. Full-bodied, with powerful yet refined tannins. This is very muscular yet very fine. Muscular and polished. One of best Bricco Rocches ever. Better in 2016. 98 Points.

Ceretto Barolo Bricco Rocche Brunate 2008 Very pretty nose of blueberries with hints of stones and dried flowers. Full-bodied, with a solid core of fruit and very fine and soft tannins. So polished and refined. Beautiful. Better in 2014 but lovely now. 94 Points.

Ceretto Barolo Prapo 2007 Violets and minerals, with hints of dark berries. Then goes to truffles. Full and powerful, with chewy tannins and long long finish. Powerful young wine. Give it four years before opening. 95 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Ceretto Barolo Bricco Rocche Brunate 2008 (94)

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Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona www.ciaccipiccolomini.com

89

This famous producer of Brunello di Montalcino has been making balanced, precise and beautiful reds since the 1980s, although recent vintages – such as the 2006 and 2007 – show the most focus and intensity.

The family-owned winery makes two Brunellos: a regular bottling and a single-vineyard wine called Vigna di Pianrosso. The latter is always a step up in terms of quality, with more concentration and depth of fruit on the palate. The Pianrosso Santa Caterina d’Oro Riserva is only made in top vintages, and it is a selection of the best from the vineyard in that respective year. —JS Ciacci Piccolomini Brunello di Montalcino 2008 Irony mineral nose with notes of coffee and juniper. Full and quite broad on palate with slightly rustic tannins. Some potential but needs time to find its harmony. Better in 2014. 91 Points

Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona Brunello di Montalcino Pianrosso 2008 Aromas of dried cherries and plums with hints of flowers follow through to a full body with velvety tannins and a juicy, meaty, fruity aftertaste. Turns to chocolate powder as well. Drink or hold. 93 Points.

Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona Brunello di Montalcino Vigna di Pianrosso Caterina d'Oro Riserva 2006 Lovely aromas of dark fruit with blackberries, flowers and hints of cloves. Full body, with chewy and velvety tannins that are polished and pretty. Long and juicy. Powerful wine. Very creamy texture.

Glorious red. Drink now or hold. 95 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona Brunello di Montalcino Vigna di Pianrosso Caterina d'Oro Riserva 2006 (95)

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Conterno-Fantino

www.conternofantino.it

41

The wines of this producer, particularly its Barolos, have such a clarity of fruit and terroir - for lack of a better word. Some may call it provenance or pedigree. I love the harmony and balance of the Barolos from ConternoFantino. I have a soft spot for the Sori Ginestra single vineyard because of the more flamboyant character of the wines it produces. It's also a beautiful vineyard close to the town of Monforte d'Alba, but the wines from Vigna del Gris and Mosconi are equally outstanding. Guido and Claudio Fantino are deft winemakers indeed and they made refined and elegant 2008 Barolos. —JS Conterno-Fantino Barolo Mosconi 2008 Love the nose of dried berries and walnuts with hints of coca powder. Full-bodied, with round tannins and a silky texture. It’s succulent and savory. Like it slightly better than 2007. Better in 2015.

93 Points.

Conterno-Fantino Barolo Sori Ginestra 2008 Classy nose of crushed berries, spices, red chillies, and rose petals. Full body, with round and chewy tannins and a milk chocolate, light vanilla and berry aftertaste. Needs time to come together. Stylish.

Better in 2015. 94 Points.

Conterno-Fantino Barolo Vigna del Gris 2008 Interesting aromas of dried flowers with some stems and dark fruits. Full-bodied, with semi-chewy tannins and a medium finish. A little tight now but solid. Better after 2014. 91 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Conterno-Fantino Barolo Sori Ginestra 2008 (94)

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Cottanera

www.cottanera.it

27

Planted primarily with local grape varieties called Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio, the slopes of Sicily’s famous Etna volcano comprise one of today’s most exciting wine regions in Italy. The reds are as formidable as great Burgundies, with wonderful perfumes and firm yet elegant palates. The top whites are made mostly with a grape called Carricante. The family-owned winery of Cottanera is one of the largest and most important in the region, and produces excellent wines, many of which are a great value. —JS Cottanera Etna Barbazzale 2012 A bright and fruity red with plum and dried strawberry character and hints of minerals. Medium-tofull body, with silky tannins and fresh acidity. 90 Points.

Cottanera Etna Bianco 2012 A dense white, with a pear drop and chalk character. Full body, with plenty of fruit and a dried fruit and mineral undertone. Thick and real. 92 Points.

Cottanera Sicilia Barbazzale 2012 A bright, crisp and fruity white from Viognier and Inzolia giving a delicate melon, lemon and mineral character and just a hint of almond underneath it all. Medium-to-full body, with fresh acidity and clean. 90 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Cottanera Etna Barbazzale 2012 (90)

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Cusumano

www.cusumano.it

4

Diego Cusumano, the head of this famous name in Sicilian winemaking, is one of the smartest young vintners in Italy. He is able to produce excellent quality wines from his unique vine-growing regions at impressively reasonable prices. And he makes his wines with local, as well as international varieties, regardless if they are Nero d’Avola or Chardonnay. Cusumano is strongly waving the flag of Sicilian winemaking around the world. —JS Cusumano Chardonnay Sicilia Jale 2011 A pretty and balanced Chardonnay with lemon pie, light creme brulee and honey. Full body, with bright acidity and a minerally undertone. Drink now. 90 Points.

Cusumano Nero d'Avola Sicilia 2011 A beautiful Nero that is balanced and refined with lightly cooked cherries and blackberries. Full and delicious. Fresh and bright. Chocolate and fruit aftertaste. Always excellent quality. Glass stopper.

Drink now. 90 Points.

Cusumano Sicilia Angimbe 2011 This shows wonderful aromas and flavors with mango and almonds. Full body, with fresh acidity and long and gorgeous. One of the best deals in quality Italian whites. 35% Chardonnay and 65% Insolia. Glass stopper. Drink now. 90 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Cusumano Nero d'Avola Sicilia 2011 (90)

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Damilano

www.cantinedamilano.it

87

Damilano is one of the most historic cellars in Barolo, with traditions stretching back more than a century. Brothers Paolo, Mario and Guido Damilano are from a new generation of Piedmont winemakers that clearly understands the importance not only of making great wines from great vineyards, but also of telling the world. They are now the largest owners (with about 25 acres) of the famous Barolo vineyard of Cannubi, as well as a number of other top sites from the great appellation, and their other wines combine high quality and value. If they are not in their winery or vineyards, at least one of them is flying somewhere to promote their wines and the region. —JS barolo

Damilano Barolo Cannubi 2008 This is a big step up in quality for Damilano, who now controls the most vineyards in the great Cannubi -- about 27 acres. Sensual aromas of dried flowers, sweet fruits and chocolate follow through to a full body, with fine tannins and a delicious finish. Very fine indeed. Chewy. Better in 2015. 95 Points.

Damilano Barolo Lecinquevigne 2008 A wine with sweet fruit such as plums and dried strawberries. Medium-to-full body, with round tannins and a juicy finish. Excellent value for Barolo. Drink now or hold. 91 Points.

Damilano Barolo Liste 2008 Aromas of dried strawberries and hints of spices follow through to a full body, with fine tannins and a silky finish. Integrated and seamless. Refined. Better in 2014. 92 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Damilano Barolo Cannubi 2008 (95)

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DaVinci

www.davinciwine.com

11

The DaVinci cooperative is an example of how a group of vine growers can organize themselves and produce excellent wines.

In this case, the 30 or so growers bring their grapes to the winery in the town of DaVinci, which is in between the cities of Florence and Lucca. They have been doing this since 1961. However the big change came a few years ago when consulting enologist Alberto Antonini began to modernize the quality of the wines from here, especially the Chianits. The DaVinci Brunellos are made in another facility in Montalcino. All the wines from DaVinci emphasize fruit and freshness. —JS DaVinci Cantine Leonardo Brunello di Montalcino 2007 Attractive aromas of sliced plums, fresh chestnuts, and lemon peel. Full body, with round tannins and a subtle, fruity finish. Wonderful core of ripe acidity. Long finish. So delicious now. Why wait? 92 Points.

DaVinci Chianti Leonardo 2010* A fruity and very real Chianti, with sliced plums and ripe strawberries and thins of vanilla. Full and fruity. Real Chianti. Real value. Drink now. 90 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) DaVinci Cantine Leonardo Brunello di Montalcino 2007 (92) *Subject to change

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Diadema

www.diadema-wine.com

63

Not many wines in the world come in bottles encrusted with Swarovski crystal diamonds. However, diadema does. It's the brainchild of Italian entrepreneur Alberto Giannotti. It's all part of a project he began in 1999 to renovate his family's property near the town of Impruneta -Fattoria Villa L'Olmo. What counts for me is the wine inside the bottle. It is not the bling on the bottle. The reds are particularly good and made from 70% Sangiovese, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 15% Merlot. Stefano Chioccioli is the consulting enologist.

The wines of diadema are always voluptuous and rich. —JS Diadema Toscana 2009 Plenty of good fruit, with plum and chocolate character. Full body. Silky finish. Drink now. Really satisfying. A little chewy now. But better in 2012. 91 Points.

Diadema Toscana 2010 Very floral with lavender and rose aromas. Full body, with silky tannins and a beautiful core of sweet fruit. Lots of new wood. Drink now. 93 Points.

Diadema Toscana Bianco 2010 A rich wine, with apple and lemon curd character. Full and fruity, with hints of vanilla and a long finish. An interesting white wine. 70% Chardonnay, 25% Viognier, and 5% Sauvignon Blanc. 90 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Diadema Toscana 2009 (91)

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Domenico Clerico

www.domenicoclerico.it

16

Domenico Clerico is one of the masters of Barolo, making rich and structured reds from single vineyards near the towns of Monforte d'Alba and Serralunga. The wines always have an impressive purity of fruit and muscular tannins. I continue to find it difficult to have a preference for one vineyard over another with Domenico's wines. It's more a question of a vintage when one site may produce better grapes than another.

I love his new wines from the region of Serralunga and bottled under has Aeroplan Servaj, which is a nickname his father gave him as a young man meaning "wild airplane." The wines are made from a handful of leased vineyards. —JS Domenico Clerico Barolo Aeroplan Servaj 2007 Blackberries and flowers on the nose follow through to a full body, with chewy tannins and a mouthpuckering finish. Needs a number of years to soften. This is a new wine from the super winemaker Dominico Clerico. It comes from rented vineyards of Serralunga and means “wild airplane?” Cool labels -- six in total. Try in 2015. 93 Points.

Domenico Clerico Barolo Ciabot Mentin 2008 Pretty nose of crushed dark fruits and dried lavender follow through to a full body, with chewy yet polished tannins and long structured finish. Racy. Best in 2016. 93 Points.

Domenico Clerico Barolo Pajana 2007 This is amazing on the nose with roses, plums, raspberries and currants. Full-bodied, with beautiful balance and finesse and depth. What gorgeous fruit and texture. Best in two or three years still. 97 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Domenico Clerico Barolo Pajana 2007 (97)

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Donnachiara

www.donnachiara.it

64

This is a new wine producer for me from Campania and I am impressed with the finesse and balance to the wines, which are all made with local grape types from Fiano di Avellino to Taurasi. Donnachiara has been making wines for more than 150 years but it's just since 2005 that the Petitto family started making top wines, primarily due to upgrading their winemaking with a new modern winery. All the wines are produced from their own vineyards. I look forward to tasting more outstanding wines from here in the future. —JS Donnachiara Fiano di Avellino 2011 This is rich and oily with a mineral and stony character and lots of dried fruits such as mango. Full and rich with good backbone and a delicious finish. Dense. Rich style. Spicy. Drink now. 90 Points.

Donnachiara Irpinia Coda di Volpe 2011 Lovely aromas of pomace and sliced apples. Full-to-medium body, with a wonderful intensity and richness. Lemony and zesty aftertaste. Drink now. 91 Points.

Donnachiara Taurasi 2008 Aromas of black pepper and other spices with hints of blackberries. Full body, with velvety tannins and a juicy finish. Nice peppery aftertaste. Drink now. 90 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Donnachiara Irpinia Coda di Volpe 2011 (91)

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Empson

www.empson.com

21

It's hard to think of a couple who have done more to promote, market and sell fine Italian wines in the world, particularly the United States, than Neil and Maria Empson. Their daughter Tara is now working in their wine import/export company as well. The Empsons have exported more great bottles of Italian wines in the last four decades than just about anyone I know. They also produce their own wines, primarily in Tuscany but also in Sardinia. And the wines are sold at extremely reasonable prices. Monte Antico is one of the best values from Italy and the Empson's Toscolo Chianti Classico are always delicious, high quality reds. —JS Toscolo Chianti Classico 2009 Wow. Love the milk chocolate, dried cherry, mint and licorice character in this Chianti Classico. Full body, with silky tannins and a juicy finish. Drink now. 92 Points.

Toscolo Chianti Classico Riserva 2007 A pretty core of dried red fruits and spices follow through to a medium body, with fine tannins and a fruity, balsamic aftertaste. A Chianti Classico Riserva that is always outstanding. Drink now. 91 Points.

Monte Antico Toscana 2009 This is one of the best wine values from Italy, with a refined and very pretty mouth feel of fine tannins and delicious fruit. Medium-to- full body, with pretty tannins and a fruity finish. 85% Sangiovese, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Merlot. Drink now. Screw cap. 90 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Toscolo Chianti Classico 2009 (92)

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Fanti

www.tenutafanti.it

106

It was 1998 that Fanti really came into the limelight making powerful and structured Brunello di Montalcinos with the help of consulting enologist Stefano Chioccioli. The quality was always based in the more than 100 acres of vineyards in some of the premium growing areas of the appellation. A new winery in 2004 has only added to the quality of Fanti Brunellos. The 2007s are superb quality. —JS Fanti Brunello di Montalcino 2007 Aromas of blueberries and bacon and hints of wet earth. Full body, with velvety and round tannins and a juicy finish. Wonderful finish of fruit and meat. Opulent and soft. Better in 2014. Best Fanti since 2001. 95 Points.

Fanti Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2007 Gorgeous aromas of dried fruits, tangerine skin and spices. Full body, with round and chewy tannins and a rich finish. This is intense and rich with a solid structure. Drink or hold. 95 Points.

Fanti Rosso di Montalcino 2010 A subtle and spicy wine with lovely ripe fruit as well. Full and juicy with bright acidity and a silky textured finish. Fine wine. Drink now. 90 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Fanti Brunello di Montalcino 2007 (95)

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Fattoria Le Pupille

www.fattorialepupille.it

95

Thanks to the hard work of the clever and beautiful Elisabetta Geppetti, this wine property put Tuscany’s coastal region of Maremma district on the fine wine map. The estate produces a number of beautiful wines, from a juicy Morellino di Scansano to a majestic Super Tuscan called Saffredi. The latter showed the world that fine reds with pedigree could be made in an isolated part of Tuscany. The Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Alicante blend is a legend with the Tuscan wine cognoscenti. Le Pupille’s riserva Morellinos underline how excellent Sangiovese-based reds also come from the area. —JS Fattoria Le Pupille Maremma Toscana Saffredi 2007 This is full throttle on the palate with blackberries and fresh herbs such as rosemary and currants. Full body, with velvety tannins and a long, long finish finish. Leave this for four to five years. 94 Points.

Fattoria Le Pupille Morellino di Scansano 2011 This is a lively red with dried cherry and lemon skin. Medium body, with fresh acidity and a clean and delicious aftertaste. Opens in the glass. Drink now. 90 Points.

Fattoria Le Pupille Morellino di Scansano Poggio Valente 2007 Lovely aromas of licorice, dark chocolate and blackberries, follow though to a full body with velvety tannins and a spicy, blueberry and cocoa finish. Subtle and structured. Polished tannins. Best after 2013. 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Fattoria Le Pupille Maremma Toscana Saffredi 2007 (94)

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Fattoria Viticcio

www.fattoriaviticcio.com

12

A new generation of winemakers took the reins of various estates in Tuscany in the 1960s, and began making excellent wines through modern viticulture and winemaking methods in the 1970s and 1980s.

Alessandro Landini at Fattoria Viticcio was one of them. Today, Landini consistently makes outstanding wines. In fact, it is difficult to say if Viticcio’s Chianti Classico riservas are better than the two well-regarded Super Tuscans: Monile and Prunaio. All Landini’s wines age wonderfully. —JS Viticcio Chianti Classico 2009 Aromas of dark berries and cherries, with hints of spices. Full body, with velvety tannins and lots of plums and chocolate character. Lovely soft texture. Drink now. 92 Points.

Viticcio Chianti Classico Riserva 2009 Blueberry and fresh mushrooms with hints of flowers on the nose. Full body, with ultra-fine tannins and a beautiful finish. This is a joy to taste. Drink now. 94 Points.

Viticcio Toscana Prunaio 2007 Polished and sexy with a blueberry, light chocolate and hints hazelnut character. Full body, with integrated tannins and a long and flavorful finish. Right now for drinking but will improve with age.

Pure Sangiovese from the heart of Chianti Classico. 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Viticcio Chianti Classico Riserva 2009 (94)

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Felsina

www.felsina.it

13

Just about every wine Fèlsina makes from its vineyards outside the village of Castelnuovo Berardenga in the Chianti Classico area is of outstanding quality.

From Chardonnay to pure Cabernet Sauvignon to Sangiovese, Fèlsina delivers wines with so much character and clarity. I like the Sangioveses the most, whether the Super Tuscan called Fontalloro or the Chianti Classico Berardenga Rancia Riserva.

The property has been a leader in Tuscany for more than three decades. They are a reference point for me for Tuscan winemaking. —JS Felsina Chianti Classico 2010 A solid Chianti Classico for the vintage, with lots of ripe fruit and chewy tannins. Structured and rich. Needs a few years of bottle age to soften. Try in 2014. 91 Points.

Felsina Chianti Classico Rancia Riserva 2009 Subtle cherry and cocoa powder character. Medium body, with fine tannins and a delicious finish.

Pretty density underneath. Drink now or hold. 92 Points.

Felsina Toscana Fontalloro 2008 A solid red with plums and chocolate and hints of coffee bean. Full and velvety, with a lovely balance and an intense finish. A little reserved now but beautiful. Best in 2012. 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Felsina Toscana Fontalloro 2008 (93)

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Feudi di San Gregorio www.feudi.it

26

This is a winery in Southern Italy that is all about contrasts. Most of the wines are made with ancient grape types such as Fiano di Avellino or Aglianico yet they are made in a modern style that gives a precise and fruit-driven character. Just visiting the modern winery and visitors center in the heart of one of Italy's most traditional wine regions, Campania, always gives me a sensation that something new and exciting is coming from Feudi di San Gregorio. I am always interested to see what is next each vintage from Feudi. —JS Feudi di San Gregorio Greco di Tufo Cutizzi 2009 Love the tangy character of peach skins and lemons. Full and very long with a wonderful intensity of fruit and bright acidity. Drink now. 92 Points.

Feudi di San Gregorio Fiano di Avellino Campanaro 2009 Exotic aromas of sliced pineapple and dried tropical fruits with intense Brazilian lime. Full body, with fresh acidity and a long intense finish. Oily. Showing bottle age and fascinating now. Richer style. Drink now or hold. 92 Points.

Feudi di San Gregorio Irpinia Serpico 2007 Lots of spices and berries with dried fruits. Full body, with chewy tannins and a long finish. Peppery.

Hints of toasted oak. Intense and rich wine. Drink or hold. 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Feudi di San Gregorio Irpinia Serpico 2007 (93)

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Feudo Maccari

www.feudomaccari.it

35

Dynamic fashion businessman Antonio Moretti of Tuscany went to Sicily about 10 years ago to prove to the world and to himself that he could make outstanding wines from the region. He bought vineyards near the town of Noto and created the Feudo Maccari winery.

Moretti’s pure Nero d’Avolas are his best to date, showing class and subtlety to reds made from the sometimes rustic grape type. His improvement with Grillo, the white of the zone, is also encouraging. Morretti is best known in Tuscany for great wines like Sette Ponti Oreno and Orma. —JS Feudo Maccari Sicilia Grillo 2011 Pear tart with cream and milk undertones on the nose. Full body, with lots of fruit and a creamy texture. Bright acidity and fresh finish. As Grillo should be. Drink now. 91 Points.

Feudo Maccari Nero d’Avola Sicilia Saia 2010 A wine with tension and form that delivers plenty of spicy, ripe and juicy fruit. Plums and cherries.

Full body, with firm tannins and a savoury finish. Very pretty. Best ever from here. Drink now. 93 Points.

Feudo Maccari Nero d'Avola Sicilia Noto 2011 Delicious wine with soft tannins and ripe and sweet fruit. Juicy and flavorful with a light jam finish.

A Nero d'Avola with a delicate touch. Drink now. 90 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Feudo Maccari Nero d’Avola Sicilia Saia 2010 (93)

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Fontanafredda/Mirafiore www.fontanafredda.it

80

The historic Piedmont estate of Fontanafredda has consistently made very good wines, particularly single-vineyard Barolos, but in the last few years the large property, which was once under royal ownership, has really come into its own. A substantial reason for this was the purchase of the estate by Italian entrepreneur Oscar Farinetti in 2008, and the subsequent injection of new resources into the company. Farinetti also owns the highly successful global Italian supermarket chain Eataly, as well as the jewel-like Barolo house of Borgogno. —JS Fontanafredda Barolo La Rosa 2008 Pure Nebbiolo fruit here that gives aromas and flavors of rose petal, light prunes and dried figs. Full body, with polished velvety tannins and a long caressingly textured finish. Drink now or hold. Beautiful balance. 94 Points.

Fontanafredda Barolo Serralunga D'Alba 2008 A little lean, but attractive berry and hazelnut character. Medium-to-full body, with medium-chewy tannins and a bright finish. Drink or hold. 90 Points.

Fontanafredda Barolo La Rosa 1998 One of the Barolos that first indicated much-imporved winemaking and viticulture for Fontanafredda. Still shows a lovely cherry and blackberry on the nose. Some tar, too. Fine tannins and mediumbodied. Drink now. 91 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Fontanafredda Barolo La Rosa 2008 (94)

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Fontodi

www.fontodi.com

58

Fontodi is one of the great estates of Tuscany.

Located on the outskirts of the town of Panzano in the wine-production zone of Chianti Classico, the family-run winery has been making consistently great wines since the 1980s, and is famous for its excellent Chianti Classico, which is sold around the world. But Fontodi’s greatness is exhibited best through its Super Tuscan red: Flaccianello della Pieve. I have consistently scored this wine 95-plus for decades, with the 2006 being very close to 100 points.

And don’t forget the excellent single vineyard Chianti Classico Vigna del Sorbo as well. Fontodi made great Sangioveses in 2009. Try them all at the Grand Tasting. All Fontodi’s grapes are organically grown. —JS Fontodi Chianti Classico 2009 Lively and delicious with blueberry and lemon character. Full and silky, with polished tannins and an attractive finish. Always excellent. Dense. Delicious now, but will improve with age. Made with organically grown grapes. 93 Points.

Fontodi Chianti Classico Vigna del Sorbo Riserva 2009 Big and rich style with velvety tannins and lots of berry, chocolate and vanilla character. Juicy wine.

Always one of the best riserva Chiantis out there. Great now but even better with a little more bottle age. Try in 2014. 95 Points.

Fontodi Colli della Toscana Centrale Flaccianello della Pieve 2009 A structured red with polished tannins and subtle vanilla, chocolate and currant character on the nose and palate. Full body, with integrated tannins and a compacted palate. Builds on the palate.

Muscular and intense. Needs until 2015 to soften. Try it then. 95 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Fontodi Chianti Classico Vigna del Sorbo Riserva 2009 (95)

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Fuligni

www.fuligni.it

76

I fell in love with the Brunello di Montalcinos of Fuligni in the 1980s. It was the 1988, in fact, that demonstrated to me the incredible finesse and intensity of the wines coming from this small winery on the northern slope of Montalcino. Look for the excellent limitedproduction riserva Brunellos – I’m a huge fan of all the Fuligni riservas from great years since 1997. For the last three decades, law professor and family member Roberto Guerrini has been overseeing the estate. His wines are as complex and refined as the symphonic music he listens to. Guerrini is, it must be said, a man of impeccable taste, and he personifies the unique and subtle character of his wines. —JS Eredi Fuligni Brunello di Montalcino 2008 This is a balanced wine with dried berry and prune character with hints of cedar. Full body, with firm tannins and a juicy finish. Delicious and flavorful. Lovely now. Absolutely delicious. 93 Points.

Eredi Fuligni Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2006 Very perfumed aromas of ripe fruit such as strawberries and blackberries. Turns to flowers and incense.

Full-bodied, with fine tannins and a bright, citrus aftertaste and ultra-clean fruit. The purity and focus of the wine is spellbinding. Better in 2015. 96 Points.

Eredi Fuligni Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2007 Dried fruits with hints of coffee bean and cedar. Full body, with silky tannins and a tangy, savory finish. Almost salty character with ripe fruits. Complex and succulent on the finish. Drink or hold.

95 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Eredi Fuligni Brunello di Montalcino 2008 (93)

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Gianfranco Sabatino www.hauner.it

8

The energetic Gianfranco Sabatino believes that island wines are the magic of Italy. Not only does he make wines at the historically famous Hauner from grape sources on various islands, he also produces his own wine in Sicily under the Le Casematte label. I love his sweet wines of Hauner.

I first encountered them in the 1980s on trips to Italy and I couldn't believe the depth of sweet fruit, volcanic character and an intense characteristic of tangy acidity and dried fruits. Hauner became less popular in the 1990s but it always remained an icon for Italian wine for me. It's clearly back in form and Sabatino is part of the comeback. These are hand-made wines. —JS Carlo Hauner Sicilia Hiera 2011 A wine with pretty chocolate and berry character. Full body, with attarctive blackberry fruit and hints of minerals, a little salty. Fresh and bright. 60% Alicante, 30% Nocera and 10% Nero a'Avola. 90 Points.

Carlo Hauner Salina Antonello 2008 This is very floral with a gorgeous fruit and berry character. Hints of roses. Salt too. Full and integrated with ultra-fine tannins and a pretty, lovely length. Drink or hold. 92 Points.

Carlo Hauner Malvasia delle Lipari Passito Selezione Carlo Hauner 2009 Fabulous sweet wine from Italy. Island magic. The nose is so unique with salty, dried apricots, even Sherry. Full body, with incredible depth of fruit, very sweet, more like a liquer. Goes on for minutes.

180 grams of residual sugar. Grapes were dried for three weeks. Barrel fermented for three months and two years of aging. Only 3,000 bottles made. 96 Points.

Le Casematte Sicily DOC Quattroenne 2010 A wonderfully balanced wine with plums and dried fruits and hints of flowers. Medium-to-full body with super integrated tannins. Gorgeous finish. This a wonderful blend that shows the grace and beauty of this undervalued appellation. Aged in large vats. 55% Nerello Mascalese, 25% Nerello Cappuccio, 10% Nocera, and 10% Nero d'Avola. 92 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Carlo Hauner Malvasia delle Lipari Passito Selezione Carlo Hauner 2009 (96)

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Giacomo Borgogno www.borgogno.com

79

I like to think of Giacomo Borgogno as a fine-antique dealer, with stocks of wonderful old Barolos instead of furniture, paintings and curios. Borgogno produces ultra-refined and balanced Barolos, no matter their age, from some of my favorite vineyards, such as Liste and Cannubi.

Now under ownership and management of the dynamic Farinetti family, who also own Eataly. A super rare 1961 Barolo is being poured at the Collector's Dinner! —JS Giacomo Borgogno Barolo 2006 Austere yet silky with dusty tannins and a full body, with dried mushroom, blueberry and dark chocolate character. The sweet fruit and tea-like character comes through beautifully. Why wait? 92 Points.

Giacomo Borgogno Barolo Cannubi 2008 Fabulous aromas of rose petal and dark fruits. Dried strawberries and cherries. Full body, with super integrated tannins and sweet, soft tannins. So beautiful. Drinkable, but much better in 2016. 6,000 bottles made. 93 Points.

Giacomo Borgogno Barolo Riserva 1982 Fabulous dried fruits, with mushroom and Christmas cake and chocolate. Full body, and velvety.

Long and gorgeous. 92 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Giacomo Borgogno Barolo Riserva 1961 (95) An ethereal red with amazingly complex and subtle aromas of dried rose petals, red cherries and star anise. Cedar too. It's delicate yet dense and changes every minute in the glasses. 95 Points.

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Gianni Gagliardo www.gagliardo.it

39

Under the watchful eye of patriarch Gianni, the Gagliardo family makes focused and precise wines of Langhe, particularly singlevineyard Barolos. Gianni started making wines in the 1970s, but it wasn’t until the 1980s that his wines came into their own. Today, Gianni shares the winemaking responsibilities with his sons, Stefano and Alberto. I especially like the newest wines, especially the 2008 Barolos. Enjoy the Barolo Cannubi 2008. It's the Gagliardos' last vintage, as the lease for the vineyard has expired. —JS Gianni Gagliardo Barolo 2008 Very subtle yet complex aromas of hazelnut, flowers and dried fruits. Full body, with firm tannins and a sweet fruit finish. Finish is very delicious. Why wait? But will age for years ahead. 91 Points.

Gianni Gagliardo Barolo Cannubi 2008 Fabulous aromas to this of freshly cut flowers and sliced strawberries. Full-bodied, with a bright and intense palate of fruit and citrus acidity. Chewy yet polished tannins. Very long and energetic. Try in 2015. 95 Points.

Gianni Gagliardo Barolo Serre 2008 Aromas of plums, meat and spices follow through to a full body, with chewy tannins and a long chewy finish. Cocoa and hazelnut undertones. Give it three to four years to soften but very pretty already. 92 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Gianni Gagliardo Barolo Cannubi 2008 (95)

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Il Borro

www.ilborro.com

94

Ferruccio Ferragamo, CEO of his family’s famous fashion house, began making wine seriously only a decade ago, with the help of his son Salvatore. The wines are made on their luxurious hunting reserve of Il Borro, about 15 minutes north of the city of Arezzo. The top wines are rich and delicious at the early stages of their evolution.

I always enjoy the Bordeaux blend with a touch of Syrah (the label of which carries the name and a sketch of the medieval hamlet of Il Borro, where I have rented a house since 1998).

Polissena, meanwhile, is a pure single-vineyard Sangiovese.

The Ferragamos recently hired consulting oenologist Stefano Chioccioli. He started with the 2011 vintage, which holds great promise for Il Borro, especially with Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. —JS Il Borro Toscana 2009 Aromas of fresh herbs, light grilled meat, and currant bush follow through to a full body, with fine yet chewy tannins and a slightly mouth-puckering finish. Needs time to soften. Juicy and savory finish.

Try in 2015. 93 Points.

Il Borro Toscana Pian di Nova 2010 Aromas of sweet cherries and dried flowers follow through to a medium body, with silky tannins and a fresh finish. Straightforward and delicious. From Syrah and Sangiovese. Drink now. 90 Points.

Il Borro Toscana Polissena 2009 Aromas of dried cherries and strawberries. Full body, with chewy tannins and a lovely density of fruit for a pure Sangiovese. Chewy finish. Give it three to four years to soften. 92 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Il Borro Toscana 2009 (93)

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Il Molino di Grace www.ilmolinodigrace.it

100

I have been following the rise of winemaking at Il Molino di Grace in Chianti Classico since the property's beginning in the mid-1990s.

And I believe the wines are now consistently outstanding quality and reflecting the true nature of its vineyards. The Grace family seems to be focusing more on the balance and harmony of their wines in recent years. Some of its best wines ever are being made now.

In addition, the winery is working hard to be environmentally sustainable. Keep an eye on this one. —JS Il Molino di Grace Chianti Classico Riserva 2008 Firm and structured red with plum, cedar and tea leaves on the nose and palate. Full and slightly chewy yet polished and flavorful. Drink now. 91 Points.

Il Molino di Grace Toscana Gratius 2007 Aromas of sliced plums, peaches and berries follow through to a full body, with silky tannins and a berry, toasted oak and cedar aftertaste. A little chewy and tannic now, but will soften with bottle age.

Better in 2013. 92 Points.

Il Molino di Grace Toscana Il Volano 2008 A very ripe wine, with dried fruits on the nose. Full-bodied with sweet, ripe fruit and plum jam with light earthy notes. Soft and silky. Why wait? 90 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Il Molino di Grace Toscana Gratius 2007 (92)

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Il Poggione

www.tenutailpoggione.it

102

The Brunello di Montalcinos of the 1960s and 1970s from here are reference points for me for great reds. I was lucky enough to drink many of them in the 1980s and 1990s, and I still remember their amazing texture and beautiful character. These wines were all about length and finesse. It's the same today under the helm of Leopoldo Francesch. The recent vintages share the same subtlety and attraction of yesterday. Perhaps they are even better? The 2007 Riserva is a masterpiece. —JS Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino 2007 A wine with roasted meats and dark fruits on the nose and palate. Full body, with soft and velvety tannins and a juicy and fruity aftertaste. So delicious and seductive. Drink now or hold. 94 Points.

Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino 2008 This is very harmonious and pretty and underlines the finesse of the vintage. Full body, with ultra-fine tannins and a delicious finish. Balanced and delicious. Drink now or hold. 91 Points.

Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2007 A powerful yet superbly refined Brunello with a full body, with velvety tannins that are layered and silky textured. Lovely dried fruits and spices. Beautiful intensity. Super finish. Drink or hold. 95 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2007 (95)

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Il Pollenza

www.ilpollenza.it

92

For close to three decades, Count Aldo Brachetti Peretti has methodically improved the vineyards and wines of his property in the Marche, proving that he can compete with the best winemakers in Italy. Relying primarily on international grape types, the nobleman – who is also president of Italian petroleum group API – makes balanced wines, with structure and richness akin to top reds and whites from Tuscany. Peretti works with Carlo Ferrini, who is one of Italy’s top consulting oenologists, and the count’s wines are now some of his finest ever. —JS Il Pollenza Marche Rosso 2008 A balanced and silky wine, with mineral, stone and blueberry character, and just the right amount of chocolate. Drink now. 91 Points.

Il Pollenza Marche Cosmino 2008 A wine with a solid core of fruit and very polished tannins. Mineral, dried flower and liquorice character besides the dark fruits. Well done. Better in a couple of years. 92 Points.

Il Pollenza Marche Porpora 2009 Solid, with mineral, blueberry and dried- flower character. Full body, with silky tannins and a pretty finish. Lots going on here. Turns to chocolate at the end. Better in 2013. 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Il Pollenza Marche Porpora 2009 (93)

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Inama

www.inamaaziendaagricola.it

2

Stefano Inama is one of Italy’s great and iconoclastic winemakers, making more modern, more fruit-forward wines in the 1990s in the Veneto, and using international varieties such as Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon.

However, Inama’s great winemaking talent comes through best in his Soave Classicos from prime hillside parts of such great vineyard plots as Foscarino and Du Lot. They have the richness and structure of excellent white Burgundy, but a character that only Garganega – the local variety of Soave – can achieve. Also check out his stylish reds with Carménère. —JS Inama Soave Classico Vigneto du Lot 2010 Aromas of very ripe apple and tarte tatin. Full and rich with layers of tropical fruit and toasted oak.

Oily. Yet balanced and long with creamy, dried fruit flavors. Gorgeous. Barrel fermented 30%. Drink now. 94 Points.

Inama Veneto Bradisismo 2008 Nose of spices and chili aromas with hints of dried cherries and currants. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a delicious finish. Hints of caramel and toasted oak. Why wait? This is 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Carmenere. 93 Points.

Inama Soave Classico Vigneti di Foscarino Vecchie Vigne 2011 Intense aromas of cream and cooked apples and peaches. Some apricots as well. Full body, with lively acidity and a long, long finish. Almost oily in texture yet lively and fresh. Drink now. 92 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Inama Veneto Bradisismo 2008 (93)

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La Massa

99

Giampaolo Motta is one of the most energetic winemakers in Tuscany, perhaps in all Italy. He is outspoken about his dedication to high quality, and a few years ago he dropped usage of Chianti Classico on the label of his top wine, Giorgio Primo. The wine now uses no Sangiovese and focuses on Bordeaux varietals. It is one of the strictest yet most voluptuous reds from the region of Chianti Classico. Motta’s 2009 Giorgio Primo is one of his best ever. Expect more and more great wines as he fine-tunes his new winery like a top-ranked Formula 1 driver for Ferrari. The inside of the wine is painted in red! —JS La Massa Toscana 2010 This is a juicy wine with a lovely balance of acidity, fine tannins and lovely fruit. Long and savory.

You want to drink it immediately! Fruity yet meaty and juicy. 60% Sangiovese, 30% Merlot, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. 92 Points.

La Massa Toscana Giorgio Primo 2009 Powerful aromas of dark fruits, minerals and hints of new wood. Super perfumed. Licorice too. Fullbodied, with a seamless tannin texture and wonderful length. The wine is ultra-polished and long.

Super structure yet full of finesse. Best after 2014, but so amazing to taste. 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot. 97 Points.

La Massa Toscana Giorgio Primo 2010 The nose is breathtaking with raspberries, flowers and cassis. Some Tuscan mint. Full and racy with a fine line of bright acidity and super fine creamy tannins. Licorice, lead pencil and subtle fruit. Power with finesse. A blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot. This was a very late harvest here and a hailstorm cut production 30%. Only 7,000 bottles made instead of the normal 20,000. Try in 2016. 96 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) La Massa Toscana Giorgio Primo 2009 (97)

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La Rasina

www.larasina.it

70

This relatively small estate was created in the 1970s, but it didn’t even begin making its own wine until almost a decade later. However, the big change came with the legendary 1997 vintage when the owner’s son, Marco Mantengoli, took over the helm of the property and guided La Rasina into making wonderful wines vintage after vintage. The 2007 La Rasina Brunello is one of the best of the vintage and the best Rasina Brunello ever. The 2008 Brunello from here is very close in quality and one of the best of the vintage. Grapes are grown organically. —JS La Rasina Brunello di Montalcino 2007 Fascinating aromas of dried meat, berries and flowers. Full body, with a wonderful velvety tannin structure and a juicy and sweet fruit aftertaste. Impressive depth of fruit too. Very polished and wellmade. Even better than 2006. 95 Points.

La Rasina Brunello di Montalcino 2008 Aromas of blueberries and cherries. Lovely intensity to this. Full body, with velvety tannins and a long and lovely finish. This is extremely well done for the vintage. From organic grapes. Drink or hold. 94 Points.

La Rasina Brunello di Montalcino Il Divasco 2007 Very earthy aromas with sliced meat and foie gras character intertwined with ripe fruit. Full body, with velvety tannins and lots of new wood on the finish. But then the fruit comes out and it's gorgeous. Better in 2015. 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) La Rasina Brunello di Montalcino 2007 (95)

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La Serena

105

Belonging to the Mantengoli family since the 1930s, La Serena didn’t start producing wine until brothers Marcello and Andrea entered the family business in 1988. Vines exclusively bearing Sangiovese cover about six of the estate’s 22 acres, which has soil similar to the Pertimali/Montosoli Cru areas, though slightly less compact. Torrenieri, the zone of production, is about 1200 feet above sea level, and is located in the northeast corner of Montalcino. The wines are extremely perfumed with racy structure from the fine tannins and a bright acidity. The grapes are biodynamically grown. Watch for the tiny production, single vineyard Brunello from here -- Gemini. —JS La Serena Brunello di Montalcino 2007 Lots of dried fruits here, almost raisins, with hints of flowers. Full body, with chewy and round tannins and juicy fruit. Intense finish. Muscular. Need two or three years for the tannins to soften. Made from biodynamic grapes. 94 Points.

La Serena Brunello di Montalcino 2008 Blackberries and dried cherries with hints of jam on the nose. Full body, with lots of strawberries yet it goes chewy with polished tannins and a fresh finish. Give it a year to come together. Made from biodynamic grapes. 92 Points.

La Serena Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Gemini 2006 Gorgeous aromas of dried flowers, nutmeg and dark fruits. Prune and coffee cake too. Full body, with velvety tannins and a powerful finish. Tannic and structured. Made from biodynamic grapes. Try after 2013. 96 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) La Serena Brunello di Montalcino 2007 (94)

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La Spinetta

www.la-spinetta.com

43

At his Piedmont wineries, which fall under the name La Spinetta, Giorgio Rivetti has been making powerful Barbarescos, Barberas and other reds for almost three decades. Only recently has he been making Barolo from his Campè vineyard and winery, with the 2000 vintage. All Rivetti’s wines have intensity and strong character, much like the gentleman himself. Rivetti is a man of dedication and great energy, and his wines are on an upward path for quality. His wines seem to be evolving to a purer, more precise fruit style. —JS La Spinetta Barbera d'Alba Bionzo 2009 This is amazing on the nose with tar and crushed blackberries and a stoney character. Full-bodied, with such great depth of fruit and minerals. Turns to dried flowers too. Savory and chewy yet polished and satisfying. This is made from 18 hectoliters per hectare and 85 years old. Some are even 100 years old. Drink now or hold. 94 Points.

La Spinetta Barbaresco Vigneto Valeirano This is intense and wonderful with polished tannins and fabulous dark berry and licorice aromas.

Flowers too. Full and super velvety with finesse and beauty but power too. Better in 2015. 95 Points.

La Spinetta Barolo Vigneto Campe 2007 Decadent and yummy, with so much ripe fruit and meaty undertones. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and loads of everything. So much rose petal and berry notes. Love the finish. Give it four to five years before opening. 94 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) La Spinetta Barolo Vigneto Campe Riserva 2007 (94)

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La Valentina

www.lavalentina.it

33

Few great wines are made as Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, a wine region on Italy’s central eastern coast, but La Valentina is one winery that makes top reds. Established in the early 1990s and therefore a relatively young winery, La Valentina makes some fabulous single-vineyard wines – notably Bellovedere and Spelt – with the richness of the New World but the backbone and structure of the Old. Binomio is also a singlevineyard red – from particularly old vines on slopes overlooking the Mediterranean. It is a joint-venture production with Stefan Inama, who is one of Soave’s top winemakers. —JS La Valentina Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Bellovedere 2007 Dense and layered, with mint, cocoa powder, dried berries and chillies on the nose and palate. Full and layered, with chewy tannins. Needs another three or four years to soften, but powerful and impressive. Napa meets Abruzzo. 93 Points.

La Valentina Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Binomio 2008 So layered and beautiful, with liquorice, blackberries and spices. Chewy. Needs years to mellow. Best in 2015. 93 Points.

La Valentina Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Spelt 2008 Very floral and fresh with hints of sliced plums. Medium body, with fine tannins and a fresh, clean finish. Fruity and refined. Drink now or hold. 92 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) La Valentina Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Spelt 2008 (92)

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Livio Felluga

www.liviofelluga.it

24

Livio Felluga is one of the benchmarks for white wines in Italy. I first visited the estate in 1983 as a young wine journalist and I have followed the winery's progress ever since.

The Felluga Pinot Grigio is a go-to white. It's a great value and shows that Italian Pinot Grigio is not an insipid white. The high end blend Terre Alte shows that world class white comes of Friuli's top white appellation, Colli Orientali. Don't miss Felluga's impressive red, Sosso, which is sadly overlooked by many Italian wine lovers. —JS Livio Felluga Pinot Grigio Colli Orientali del Friuli 2011 A rich and dense white with mango and light banana character. Oily. Fresh acidity holds the wine together nicely. Excellent for both aperitif and with a meal. One of the best Pinot Grigios from here in years. Drink now. Screw cap. 92 Points.

Livio Felluga Colli Orientali del Friuli Sosso Rosazzo Rosso Riserva 2006 Intense blackberries and spices with hints of nuts and dark chocolate. Full body, with a ripe fruit and balsamic undertone with chewy yet polished tannins. Intense finish. Drink or hold. 93 Points.

Livio Felluga Colli Orientali del Friuli Terre Alte 2009 This is rich and complex with mineral, dried pears and peaches with hints of spices such as cloves. Full body, with fresh acidity and a wonderful length. Lots of white pepper character. Drink now. Screw cap. 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Livio Felluga Colli Orientali del Friuli Sosso Rosazzo Rosso Riserva 2006 (93)

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Marchesi Antinori www.antinori.it

22

What would the wine world be like without the Antinori family? The patriarch of the clan, Piero Antinori, forever changed the way the world views Tuscan wines with the invention in the 1970s of Tignanello, and later of Solaia. The two wines – the former a blend of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon, the latter of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Sangiovese – literally created the Super Tuscan category. They remain wonderful reds with a following of collectors around the world. The Antinoris make wines in many of the key appellations in Italy, such as Brunello di Montalcino, Bolgheri, Barolo and Barbaresco, as well as in areas outside the country, such as Napa Valley and Washington State.

The world is this family’s winemaking arena. —JS Antinori Bolgheri Superiore Guado al Tasso 2009 Best Guado al Tasso ever. Wonderful nose of crushed blackberries and cherries with hints of dark chocolate. Full-bodied, with soft and round tannins and a long, long finish. It goes on for minutes.

Now just a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Better after 2015. 97 Points.

Antinori Toscana Solaia 2009 A Solaia with lots of currants, berries and milk chocolate yet reserved and focused. Full body, with refined tannins and an alluring finish. Needs at least two or three years to come together. Can't decide if I like this better than the superb 2008. Better in 2015. 96 Points.

Antinori Toscana Tignanello 2009 Dried fruits and flowers on the nose. More roses than anything else. Full body, with light toffee, coffee and ginseng character. Light prunes too. Really enjoyable. A blend of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon. Give it a year or two to soften. 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Antinori Toscana Solaia 2009 (96)

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Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi www.frescobaldi.it

46

The Frescobaldi family has been making wines for centuries. Their current winemaking is rewriting the history books. The family’s best wines come from an array of appellations in Tuscany, from Rufina to Brunello di Montalcino. They are also the majority owner of Tenuta dell’Ornellaia, maker of the Cabernet Sauvignonbased red under the same name, and the pure Merlot sensation Masseto, which has plans for a new winery. I’m particularly partial to Frescobaldi’s efforts in Montalcino, particularly the Brunello di Montalcino from its Castel Giocondo estate. The Super Tuscan Giramonte – a blend of Merlot and Sangiovese made on the family’s estate near Florence, Tenuta di Castiglioni – is at another extreme: thick, powerful and luscious. —JS Marchesi de' Frescobaldi Brunello di Montalcino Castelgiocondo Riserva 2006 Wonderful nose of roses and ripe raspberries follow through to a full body, with silky tannins and a juicy fruity finish. Very tight and closed. Loads of fruit underneath the firm yet polished structure.

Solid wine. Better in 2015. 95 Points.

Marchesi de' Frescobaldi Toscana Giramonte 2009 A harmonious wine with cherry, currant and hazelnut character. It's full-bodied, with fine tannins and a clean finish. Polished and refined texture. Very pretty. Better in 2014. 94 Points.

Marchesi de' Frescobaldi Toscana Mormoreto 2008 This is very ripe, with intense plum jam and floral undertones. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and plenty of intense dark fruits and lightly toasted vanilla. Powerful and balanced. Needs at least three or four years to come together. 95 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Marchesi de' Frescobaldi Brunello di Montalcino Castelgiocondo Riserva 2006 (95)

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Marchesi Mazzei www.mazzei.it

14

The name of Mazzei is one of the oldest and most prestigious in Tuscany, but the current generation is writing today’s history books with wine. Their primary interest in wine is in Chianti Classico at Castello di Fonterutoli, a beautiful medieval hamlet in the southern part of the appellation near Siena. Their ultra high-tech winery is a showpiece in their region and enables them to fine-tune the wines on the estate including the legendary Siepi, a beautiful blend of Sangiovese and Merlot. The Mazzei also make some of the best wines of the Maremma at Belguardo and in Sicily at Zisola. —JS Mazzei Toscana Castello di Fonterutoli Siepi 2008 Lovely aromas of currants and blueberries, with cream and vanilla undertones. Full body, with wellintegrated tannins and a milk chocolate, currant jam aftertaste. Lots going on. Classy bottle as always.

Best after 2014. 93 Points.

Mazzei Chianti Classico Fonterutoli 2010 Aromas of chili powder, slightly cooked fruit and dried fruits, follow through to a full body and fine tannins, with a fruity finish. Firm and structured. Better in 2013. 90 Points.

Mazzei Chianti Classico Fonterutoli 2006 Wonderful nose of dried fruits and chocolate with hints of hazelnuts. Full body, with a savory, salty, and fruity aftertaste. Chewy. Drink or hold. 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Mazzei Toscana Castello di Fonterutoli Siepi 2008 (93)

jamessuckling.com • zachys.com

85

Table #

Masciarelli

www.masciarelli.it

28

Masciarelli is a reference point for winemaking in Abruzzo, and the late Gianni Masciarelli and his wife, Marina Cvetic, created a powerhouse of a winery in the small village of San Martino sulla Marrucina. The winery has over 980 acres of vineyards scattered throughout the region, and Cvetic oversees the entire operation. If she is not in the winery, she’s probably overseas, promoting her label and the region’s wines. Masciarelli wines are pristine and focus primarily on Abruzzo grape types: Montepulciano and Trebbiano. The top whites have a chalky, almost Burgundian style. The best reds are polished and velvety in texture. Villa Gemma is a personal favorite. I recently tried various vintages of Villa Gemma back to 1995 and all the wines were excellent quality. —JS Masciarelli Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Villa Gemma 2005 Intense aromas of concentrated fruit with blackberries, sultanas and plums that follow to a full body, with dense and powerful palate and velvety tannins. Smoky and fruity finish. This is still very youthful and beautifully drinkable, but will be even better in two or three years. 94 Points.

Masciarelli Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Marina Cvetic 2008 This is really outstanding with layers of beautiful fruit and seamless tannins. A triumph for the region with depth and class. So much smoky, wet earth, stone and dark fruits. Intense finish. Drink or hold. 95 Points.

Masciarelli Trebbiano d’Abruzzo Castello di Semivicoli 2008 A dense and beautiful white, with chalk, dried-apple, mango and pear character. Full and fruity, with a round texture and a delicious finish. So much dried fruit and honey in the aftertaste. Stylish.

Drink now. 92 Points.

Masciarelli Trebbiano d’Abruzzo Marina Cvetic 2009 A wonderful wine with a salty, nutty character yet rich and round with cream and cooked apples. Full and delicious. Stylish white. Drink now or hold. 92 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Masciarelli Trebbiano d’Abruzzo Castello di Semivicoli 2008 (92)

86

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Masi

www.masi.it

60

Sandro Boscaini, whose family owns Masi, has spent his life promoting the best wines of Veneto, in particular Amarone della Valpolicella. And he has always insisted that the best promotion is to make excellent Amarones. His standard bottlings of Amarone are always excellent quality; however, Masi shines with its single vineyard wines. I can't make up my mind which I usually prefer. For example, I thought the Campolongo di Torbe was his best from the superb 2006 vintage. Regardless, each bottling of Masi Amarone has its own distinctive style reflecting the character of the vineyard. —JS Masi Veronese Brolo di Campofiorin 2009 A clean and pretty wine. Perfumed and very pretty with dried flowers and berries and just a hint of walnuts. Full-to-medium body, with fine tannins and a clean long finsih. 80% Corvina, 10% Rondinella and 10% of Roseletta. The Corvina is dried for two months. It goes through a second fermentation with these grapes. Aged in Slovenian oak barrels both large and 600 liters for two years.

Just right now. 90 Points.

Masi Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Serègo Alighieri Vaio Armaron 2006 Very ripe and raisiny nose with spices underneath it all. Full body, with chewy tannins and lots of fruit. Tangy finish. This is so integrated and refined now with hints of dark fruit, even black cherries.

Aged five to six months in cherry wood casks besides normal botte for over 2 1/2 years. Drinking beautifully. 93 Points.

Masi Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Campolongo di Torbe 2006 Aromas are spell-binding of nuts, spices, dried flowers and dried fruits. This is an amazing wine with such depth of fruit and chewy, vevlety tannins. It is big, yet agile with wonderful texture and layers of fruit. It goes on for minutes. The structure is mind boggling, yet so polished. The mouthfeel is amazing and most likely from the volcanic soil of the best grapes from the vineyard of Campolongo. 98 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Masi Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Campolongo di Torbe 2006 (98)

jamessuckling.com • zachys.com

87

Table #

Massolino

www.massolino.it

45

The Barolos of Massolino show incredible finesse and power, even early in their evolution, and they evolve beautifully in the bottle. It’s that precision that makes the wines of this family-owned establishment so special. Vigna Rionda is one of the most prestigious vineyard areas in Barolo, with a fabulous microclimate and exposure to the sun. The Massolinos tend the vines like a small, award-winning garden.

The Margheria and Parafada vineyards also make superlative wines. The 2007 Barolos from here are so delicious now that it's hard not to drink them, but they will reward patience. —JS Massolino Barolo Parafada 2007 This is a soft and generous red with plum, orange peel character. It’s full and very round on the palate.

Tar and spice. So attractive now but best after 2014. 93 Points.

Massolino Barolo Margheria 2007 Floral aromas, with blueberries and raspberry undertones. Citrus fruit too. Full body, with chewy tannins and a racy finish. Polished and pretty. Love the tangy character. Give this three to four years of bottle age. 94 Points.

Massolino Barolo Vigna Rionda Riserva 2004 Lots of white truffles with just about everything else under the sun in perfect harmony. This is complex. Full-bodied and silky, super soft texture and a long fruity finish. A great deal is going on in this wine, yet maintains a nice harmony. Don't wait on this one. 94 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Massolino Barolo Margheria 2007 (94)

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Mastroberardino

www.mastroberardino.com

25

This is the great name of Southern Italy that put the appellation of Campania on the wine drinking map in the 1960s.

The Mastroberardino family created demand around the world for everything from FIano di Avellino to Taurasi. I still remember fondly drinking amazing bottles of 1958 and 1968 Taurasi Riservas with the family in the 1980s.

They are still amazing wines. In recent years, winery head Piero Mastroberardino has been upgrading its whites and reds. Try the 2007 Taurasi Radici to understand the improvement. —JS Mastroberardino Taurasi Radici 2007 This is impressive with black peppercorns and tar as well as lots of dark fruits such as blackberries.

Comes through in the nose and the palate. Full and velvety. Drink or hold. 93 Points.

Mastroberardino Greco di Tufo Nova Serra 2011 A full-bodied wine with a salty, pomace and dried lemon character. Tangy, zesty lemon rind character and hints of mineral. A nice acid and fruit balance to this. Drink or hold. 91 Points.

Mastroberardino Falanghina Sannio 2011 A wine with lots of fruit, from mangos to kiwi fruit. Full and dry with an oil texture. Petrol and sliced fruit character. Complex. 91 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Mastroberardino Taurasi Radici 2007 (93)

jamessuckling.com • zachys.com

89

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Mauro Molino

www.mauromolino.com

84

Mauro Molino is one of a small group of top Barolo makers who came to the forefront in the 1980s producing cleaner, more precise wines after taking the reins of their vineyards from their parents. He continued his quest in fine winemaking ever since. Molino's top reds, his Barolos, are structured and muscular yet finely fruity. I have noticed a more reserved and slightly less woody style as well. His Barolo from his cru Vigna Conca is clearly his top wine, and I am always impressed with the depth of fruit and intensity. —JS Mauro Molino Barolo 2008 Excellent aromas of licorice, dark fruits and dark chocolate with hints of stone. Full-bodied, with ultra-racy, fine tannins and a long and beautiful finish. A wine with very integrated tannins. Such beauty. Extremely well done. Better in a couple of years. 93 Points.

Mauro Molino Barolo Gallinotto 2008 A wine with ripe plums and milk chocolate character follow through to a full body, with toasted oak character and coffee and ripe fruit undertones. The palate is dense and structured. Sweet tannins. Best in 2015. 93 Points.

Mauro Molino Barolo Vigna Conca 2008 Intense aromas of dried fruits with treacle tart and Turkish delight undertones. Chocolate too. Full body, with a rich center palate of fruit and hints of new oak at the finish. This well-crafted wine needs at least three or four years of bottle age to come together. 94 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Mauro Molino Barolo Vigna Conca 2008 (94)

90

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Michele Chiarlo www.chiarlo.it

15

Michele Chiarlo is a long-established name in Piedmont winemaking, although it was in the 1980s when the familyowned winery came into the spotlight for producing excellent wines -- particularly single vineyard Barolos.

His jewel vineyard is Cannubi, the birthplace of Barolo. Michele Chiarlo himself says that as a young man that he wanted to have something like the great vineyard of Burgundy, Clos de Vougeot.

Well, he does, and he makes beautiful wines with Cannubi -- but also he makes equally delicious Barolos with his other crus. —JS Michele Chiarlo Barolo Cannubi 2007 Blackberries and hints of vanilla with chocolate undertones. Flowers too. Full body, with a solid core of polished, velvety tannins and a fruit finish. Tight and closed now. Try it after 2014. 92 Points.

Michele Chiarlo Barolo Cerequio 2007 Love the rose petals and dark fruits on the nose here. Full-bodied, with a solid core of ripe fruit and spicy chocolate. Layered and flavorful. Chewy, soft tannins. Best after 2015. 93 Points.

Michele Chiarlo Barolo Tortoniano 2007 Flowers and blueberries, with hints of sandalwood on the nose. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a fruity and rich finish. This is almost tropical in character. Give it time to open. Try in 2013. 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Michele Chiarlo Barolo Cannubi 2007 (92)

jamessuckling.com • zachys.com

91

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Monteverro

www.monteverro.com

98

German entrepreneur Georg Weber only recently created this Tuscan wine estate, with the first vintage being 2008. Located in the Maremma region, near the town of Capalbio, Monteverro’s top wine is a Bordeaux blend created under the name of the estate, with a “Rhône blend” called Tinata coming close behind. The 2009 was a big step up in quality from the 2008. The 2009 Monteverro, in fact, was one of my top wines from Tuscany tasted in all 2012.

World-renowned consulting oenologist Michel Rolland oversees production. —JS Monteverro Toscana 2008 Aromas of raspberry pie and vanilla cream, follow through to a full body, with soft and velvety tannins and lots of cappuccino and fruity character on the finish. A new producer to watch from Tuscany.

Better after 2012. 91 Points.

Monteverro Toscana 2009 A dense and velvety wine with rich and wonderful currant and blackberry character. Full body, with lots of ripe tannins and a long flavorful finish. Bordeaux blend. A relatively new winery to watch in the future with consulting enologist Michel Rolland in service. Much better than the over-extracted 2008. Needs three or four years to polish tannins before opening. 95 Points.

Monteverro Toscana Tinata 2009 Alluring aromas of blueberries and currants follow through to a full body, with fine tannins and a subtle dark chocolate and fruit aftertaste. A blend of 80% Syrah and 20% Grenache. Better in 2015, but who can wait? 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Monteverro Toscana 2009 (95)

92

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Nittardi

www.nittardi.com

97

The wines of Nittardi are bold and rich with loads of flavor and polished tannins. There's a generosity that makes you want to drink them!

It's that way with the reds from both estates of the owners of Nittardi: Peter Femfert and Stefania Canali. The couple owns vineyards in Chianti Classico as well as the Maremma. —JS Nittardi Chianti Classico Casanova di Nittardi 2010 A wine with some cherry and dark chocolate character follows through to a medium body, with fine tannins and a fresh finish. Drink now. 90 Points.

Nittardi Chianti Classico Riserva 2009 Big and powerful with loads of blueberry and black cherry character. Full and velvety with lots of pretty fruit. Velvety tannins. Give this time, if you can hold yourself back. 93 Points.

Nittardi Maremma Toscana Nectar Dei 2009 Sliced plums on the nose with flowers, minerals and hazelnuts. Full body, with velvety tannins and a fruity finish. Lively acidity. Energetic wine yet subtle. Drink now or hold. 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Nittardi Maremma Toscana Nectar Dei 2009 (93)

jamessuckling.com • zachys.com

93

Table #

Oddero

www.oddero.it

82

Wines have been made here since 1878, but it's really in the last three decades, with the emergence of a new generation in the Oddero family, that the excellence in wines has been consistent. These are wines that remain traditional in their finesse and firmness yet have an underlying modernity with subtle fruit character. Oddero has a number of top vineyards for its Barolos including Vignarionda, Brunate, Villero, and Rocche di Castiglione. One single vineyard is in Barbaresco: Gallina. —JS Oddero Barbaresco Gallina 2008 Dried berries with hints of leather on the nose. Full body, with soft and silky tannins and plenty of ripe fruits. Medium finish. Need a year or two to open up. More traditional in style. Best in 2013.

91 Points.

Oddero Barolo 2008 Blueberry with raspberries and lemon rind aromas. Full body, with well-integrated tannins and a fruity finish. Subtle and polished. Needs a year or two to soften the tannins. 91 Points.

Oddero Barolo Villero 2008 Very elegant and refined with hints of spices, raisins and chocolate that follow through to a full body, with fine tannins and a medium finish. Better in 2015. 92 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Oddero Barolo Villero 2008 (92)

94

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Orma

51

Having secured a reputation for quality winemaking (with his wine Oreno, created in a little-known region called Valdarno in Tuscany) about a decade ago, fashion icon Antonio Moretti set his sights on the Tuscan coastal area of Bolgheri, establishing the winery Orma. The vineyards of the small property are in the heart of a region long famed for such great wines as Sassicaia, Ornellaia and Macchiole (Messorio), and Orma is now making a Bordeaux blend at the same level of quality as its neighbors. The last two vintages are genuine “wow” wines. —JS Orma Toscana 2007 Sweet berry and currants, with hints of blackberries on the nose. Full body, with round and chewy tannins. Slightly hollow centre palate now, but shows good fruit and balance. Will fill in. Give it two years from now. 92 Points.

Orma Toscana 2008 Wow. This is really powerful, with aromas of blueberries and blackberries and hints of spices. Then there is an earthy, meaty undertone. Full body, with velvety tannins and a fruity finish. Focused and solid. Very structured. Best in 2015. 95 Points.

Orma Toscana 2009 Wow. Beautiful nose of crushed berries and coffee with hints of spices. Full body, with intense red chili and dark fruits that follow through to a long, long finish. Very beautiful. Better in 2014. 95 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Orma Toscana 2009 (95)

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95

Table #

Parusso

www.parusso.com

88

Marco Parusso makes sincere wines that reflect the nature of his vineyards in a refined and beautiful way. He has changed his style over the years from fruit forward wines to more ethereal and subtle reds, although they remain tannic. Some of this may be due to a change over to biodynamic grape growing a few years back. Marco doesn't want to lose the intrinsic quality in his grapes to intrusive winemaking techniques. He is convinced about this. I often prefer his blended Barolo more than his single vineyard bottles. Compare the 2008 Parusso Barolo against the 2008 Barolo Le Coste-Mosconi. —JS Parusso Barolo 2008 I am intrigued with the aromas of green coffee bean and hints of ripe fruit. Turns to flowers. Full body, with chewy tannins and an intense finish. Vanilla bean and hints of ripe fruit. Subtle and sexy.

Like it better than Bussia! Better in 2015. 93 Points.

Parusso Barolo Bussia 2008 Aromas of wheat, berry and flowers follow through to a full body, with fine tannins and a vanilla finish. Builds on the palate. Structured. Better in 2014. 91 Points.

Parusso Barolo Le Coste-Mosconi 2008 So perfumed and pretty with flowers and dark berries. Hints of vanilla bean and oak. Full-bodied, and chewy with lots of tannins. But should soften with bottle age. Muscular and toned. Try in 2015.

94 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Parusso Barolo 2008 (93)

96

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Petra

www.petrawine.it

17

Vittorio Moretti, who originally made his mark in the wine world with his excellent sparkling wines at Bellavista, began his dream of making Super Tuscan wines in the late 1990s, at a winery called Petra in the Maremma, the coastal region of the area. With the help of his daughter Francesca, Moretti’s wines are now coming into their own thanks to the increase of the age of his vineyards and the fine-tuning of their winemaking. The best is yet to come from Petra. —JS Petra Toscana 2006 Intense aromas of spices and fresh herbs, with dark fruits. Full body, with soft and velvety tannins and a long and beautiful finish. Made from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Better in 2012. 91 Points.

Petra Toscana 2007 A wine that oozes with beautiful blueberry, chocolate and hints of coffee on the nose and palate. Full and velvety, with round and rich tannins. It's fruit forward and delicious. Wait until about 2013 for it to mellow. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. 92 Points.

Petra Toscana Potenti 2008 Lots of ripe fruit with dried meat and dark chocolate undertones. Full-bodied, with spicy, slightly earth and rich, ripe fruit character. Chewy mouthfeel. Cabernet. Better in 2014. 92 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Petra Toscana 2007 (92)

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97

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Petrolo

www.petrolo.it

31

Noted artist Luca Sanjust gave up his Rome studio for a winery in the hills of Tuscany, about 50 kilometers south of Florence, and in the mid 1990s he began making precise yet heartfelt wines on his small estate. Today, his Sangiovese-Merlot blend, Torrione, and his pure Merlot, Galatrona, are some of the most sought-after wines in the region. Sanjust believes his Galatrona proves that Tuscany has a distinct style of Merlot – very much different from Bordeaux or anywhere else in the world. His recently released pure Sangiovese single-vineyard red called Boggina is a new sensation, underlining the greatness of the region’s indigenous grape. Torrione is an excellent value for the quality. —JS Petrolo Toscana Galatrona 2009 Amazing aromas of black truffles, crushed blackberries and dark chocolate. Dried flowers too. Fullbodied, with wonderful fruit that is layered and gorgeous. The finish is fruity, long and stylish. Give it three years to come together. Best after 2013. 97 Points.

Petrolo Toscana Torrione 2009 Aromas of lightly stewed fruit, with hints of fresh herbs and spices. Full-bodied, with soft tannins and a fruity finish. This is balanced and long, with a caressing finish. Best ever. Mostly Sangiovese, with a hint of Merlot. Better after 2013. 94 Points.

Petrolo Toscana Torrione 2010 An aromatic Torrione with violets, berries and spices. Hazelnut aromas as well. Full body, with pretty tannins and a delicate fruity finish. Nicely integrated tannins. Always beautiful. Better after 2014 but why wait? 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Petrolo Toscana Galatrona 2009 (97)

98

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Pieropan

www.pieropan.it

1

The Pieropans have been making fabulous white wines for decades. They have such clarity to them – whether it be the simple Soave or one of the great single-vineyard whites from the hillsides of the fabulous Soave Classico appellation. The Pieropans only recently began making Amarone della Valpolicella, and their firm and exact winemaking shines through in the bottle. —JS Pieropan Soave Classico Calvarino 2010 This is very pure with mineral and pear pie aromas. Creamy too. Full body, with intense flavors of sliced pears and apple with a finish of lively acidity that turns to white pepper and basalt. Smoky.

Drink now. 92 Points.

Pieropan Soave Classico La Rocca 2010 Peach and mango with beautiful perfumes with spices such as cloves. Full-bodied, with amazing intensity and complexity with apple pie, crust and spicy pears. Powerful finish. Garganega 100% fermented in oak and aged one year. 94 Points.

Pieropan Amarone della Valpolicella Vigna Garzon 2009 Intense aromas of strawberry and spices with a full body, with fabulous balance and length with white and black pepper, cloves and cinnamon. Fabulous finish. This is the third vintage of Amarone from the great white wine producers. Very peppery aftertaste. 10,000 bottles made. 96 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Pieropan Amarone della Valpolicella Vigna Garzon 2009 (96)

jamessuckling.com • zachys.com

99

Table #

Pietradolce

www.pietradolce.it

9

Pietradolce is one of a handful of new wineries quickly making a mark in the world of Sicilian wine -- especially the amazing volcanic region of Etna. In just a few years, this winery has made beautiful reds from the local grape type of Nerello Mascalese, which grows in their own lava soil vineyards of 27 acres. The head-pruned vines are growing about 600 to 900 meters above sea level. This keeps them fresh from the hot Sicilian weather during the growing season. It also produces wonderfully bright and crisp reds with the texture and finesse of Pinot Noir grown in Burgundy. They are wines to drink young as well as mature. —JS Pietradolce Etna Archineri 2008 A round and fruity red with plum pie and spices with chocolate powder. Full, round and enjoyable. A little rustic but yummy. Drink now. 91 Points.

Pietradolce Etna Archineri 2009 This shows loads of intense fruit with dark berries and plums. Full-bodied, with super velvety tannins and a long long finish. This is generous and complex. Drink now or hold. 95 Points.

Pietradolce Etna Archineri 2010 This is delicate but very deep with strawberries, spices and cedar. Full body, with a dense palate, but beautiful fruit and a firm tannin structure. This is really corseted with beautiful acidity. Wonderful lengths. Turns to plums and cedar. Wonderful. A blend of grapes from two sites: One with 40 years of age and another 80 years of age. Latter is pre-phyloxera. Drink now or hold. 94 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Pietradolce Etna Archineri 2009 (95)

100

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Pio Cesare

www.piocesare.it

81

The Boffa family, owners of Pio Cesare, has probably done more for promoting Barolo around the world than anyone else. There seems to be at least one family member traveling the globe at any one time to promote their wines, and those wines are usually Barolo. The classic blended Barolos and Barbarescos are excellent values for the quality. I have drunk wines back to the 1950s, and they are beautiful. The single-vineyard Barolo Ornato comes from one of the best sites in the region. It is always amazing quality. —JS Pio Cesare Barbaresco Il Bricco 2008 Wonderful aromas of flowers and dark fruits with a hint of stones. Full-bodied, with wonderful structure yet the tannins are polished and beautiful. Sweeter and rounder tannins. Balanced wine. Better in 2016 but who can wait? 95 Points.

Pio Cesare Barolo 2008 Wonderful aromas of dried roses and berries with hints of peach pit and plums. Lively and focused with plenty of fruit and a lovely line of tannins to it. Drink now or give it two or three years to soften.

93 Points.

Pio Cesare Barolo Ornato 2008 Subtle yet complex aromas of peaches, plums and roses turn to walnuts, hazelnuts, and spice. Fullbodied, with impressive intensity and structure. A beautiful line to the wine with ultra-fine tannins and a finish that lasts for minutes. Super focused. I like this better than the 2007. Best in 2016. 97 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Pio Cesare Barolo Ornato 2008 (97)

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101

Table #

Planeta

www.planeta.it

29

The Planeta family brought Sicily to the forefront of fine Italian winemaking in the late 1990s through the use of international grape varieties such as Chardonnay and Merlot. However, it’s the indigenous grape types that are bringing the family kudos at the moment. The pure Nero d’Avola (Santa Cecilia) is one of the best on the island, with such finesse and depth of flavor (not easy with a grape that usually delivers jammy and rustic wines).

It's made in the best area in Sicily for Nero d'Avola -- Noto. Stay tuned for the up-and-coming release of Planeta’s reds from the volcanic region of Etna. They could be their best yet. —JS Planeta Chardonnay Sicilia 2010 Starts off milky and then turns to minerals, sliced apples, mangos and honey. Full body, with bright acidity and nutty, almond, apple and hints of tropical fruit. Drink now or hold. 93 Points.

Planeta Merlot Sicilia Sito dell'Ulmo 2008 Merlot with black olive and berry character. Full and velvety with chocolate and dark fruits. Lovely ripe tannins. Long finish. Drink now or hold. 92 Points.

Planeta Sicilia Santa Cecilia 2008 Beautiful fruit and focus to this wine with dried cherries and blueberries. Licorice. Bright and pretty.

Full body, with fine tannins and a fruity finish. This is the first Santa Cecilia to have the Noto DOC. It was created in 2008. Drink now or hold. 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Planeta Sicilia Santa Cecilia 2008 (93)

102

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Podere Il Carnasciale

20

This is one of the great cult wines of Tuscany that until recently was almost impossible to find except in magnums in a few high-end restaurants in Florence. And it's unique in that it is produced from what is believed to be a cross between Merlot and Cabernet Franc -- hence the name of the wine Caberlot. The wine is the brainchild of the Rogosky family -- namely Bettina and her late husband Ernst -- and they developed the tiny production in the late 1980s with consulting enologist Vittorio Fiore. Now Bettina's son, Moritz, is helping as well. From about five acres of vineyard, Il Caberlot is a wine that is so uniquely perfumed with a fascinating sense of dark fruits and flowers. The palate is always refined and firmly textured. It's superb quality just about every year. If only they made more! — JS Carnasciale Toscana Caberlot 2007 A beautiful wine with beautiful fruit and tannin texture. It's full-bodied with soft and round tannins and a captivating character of spices, currants, and raspberries. Only in magnums. Tiny production.

Drink or hold. 97 Points.

Carnasciale Toscana Caberlot 2009 This is fabulous as always. Gorgeous aromas and flavors of blackberries and mint. Full-bodied. Seamless tannins flow over your palate and caress every bit. Wonderful length. One of Tuscany's cult wines.

Better in 2015. 96 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Carnasciale Toscana Caberlot 2008 I love the nose on this, with sweet berries, dried flowers and intense fresh mint. Full-bodied, with beautiful fruit and black pepper character. Intense finish. A wonderfully aromatic and balanced red.

Best after 2013. 95 Points.

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103

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Podernuovo a Palazzone www.podernuovoapalazzone.it

19

This is a new winery for me, but the wines are excellent. However, I wouldn't expect anything less from owners Paolo and Giovanni Bulgari — the same family who owns the famous jewelry and watch namesake. The wines are made in southern Tuscany on the borders of Lazio and Umbria.

Son Giovanni oversees the operation with the help of consulting enologist Riccardo Cotarella. The 2009 was the first vintage. Most of the wines are made with Sangiovese, but Montepulciano, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot are also grown on the 42 acre estate. —JS Podernuovo a Palazzone Toscana Sotirio 2009 A wine with almost a Burgundian texture to it. Full body, with a lovely refined density of of fruit and silky and polished tannins. Pretty combination of cedar, berry and chocolate. A year or two will bring it all together. A pure Sangiovese made by the owners of Bulgari jewelry near Siena. Excellent.

92 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Podernuovo a Palazzone Toscana Sotirio 2009 (92)

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Podere Sapaio

47

www.sapaio.it

SAPAIO.99

BOLGHERI

Established in 1999, this relatively new estate – located in the legendary coastal region of Bolgheri – quickly made a name for itself for producing modern, fruit-forward yet structured reds. The Bordeaux blend, a Bolgheri Superiore carrying the name of the estate, is always extremely full and rich, with structure and focus maintained. I remember tasting the first vintage, 2004, with one of Italy’s most famous winemakers.

He was blown away by the quality. He was also shocked by the relative value for quality. The 2007 and 2008 Sapaios are outstanding. —JS PODERE

Podere Sapaio Bolgheri Superiore Sapaio 2007 Currants, minerals and spices here. Subtle and stylish. Full and super-silky. Round and rich. I really like the texture and depth of fruit. Drink now or hold. 92 Points.

Podere Sapaio Bolgheri Superiore Sapaio 2008 Beautiful nose of ripe plums and sweet tobacco, follow through to a full body, with velvety tannins and a ripe finish. Extremely balanced and complex. Best after 2012. 94 Points.

Podere Sapaio Bolgheri Volpolo 2010 A balanced and chewy wine with blueberries and hints of cedar. Full body, with firm tannins and a medium finish. Needs to soften. Better in 2013. 90 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Podere Sapaio Bolgheri Superiore Sapaio 2008 (94)

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105

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Poderi Aldo Conterno

www.poderialdoconterno.com

78

This is one of the most impressive wine estates in all of Italy, perhaps in the world.

From its great vineyards in Barolo, Poderi Aldo Conterno makes some of the most exquisite red wines on the planet. It was all part of the dream of the late Aldo Conterno, who passed away in the spring of 2012. He established the estate in 1969, having left his father’s estate, Giacomo Conterno, in the hands of his brother. Poderi Aldo Conterno is now under the helm of Aldo’s sons, Franco, Stefano and Giacomo. The recently released Poderi Aldo Conterno Barolo Granbussia Riserva 2005 is their best red ever. I rated it 100 points. The grapes that go into this are selected vine by vine. They come from the oldest and most beautiful vines from Conterno’s three vineyards in Bussia: Cicala, Colonnello and Romirasco. Production has been reduced to a third of the quantity in the past, or about 3,000 bottles. —JS Aldo Conterno Barolo Bussia 2008 This is one of the best “classic” Barolos from Conterno. The nose is amazing with flowers and black fruits. Jumps out of the glass. Full-bodied, yet so gorgeous with such length and beauty. It goes on for minutes. Wonderful now, but better in three or four years. 94 Points.

Aldo Conterno Barolo Cicala 2008 The grapes in this are grown in more clay soil than Colonello, which is sandy. Love the aromas of strawberries and flowers. Pure fruit. Even hints of strawberry leafs. Full body with chewy tannins.

This needs more bottle age than the Colonello. Don't touch for at least five years. 96 Points.

Aldo Conterno Barolo Colonnello 2008 The nose is amazing with roses and minerals, and dark fruits. Also hints of bark and mushrooms.

Full-bodied, with super fine tannins and a long tangy finish with polished tannins. Persistent and beautiful. Better in four or five years, but gorgeous now. 96 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Aldo Conterno Barolo Cicala 2008 (96)

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Principe Corsini

www.principecorsini.com

18

The Corsinis are an aristocratic Tuscan family with an incredible history and impeccable taste – much like the wines they make on their estates in Chianti Classico and in the Maremma. Duccio Corsini lives at Corsini’s Villa Le Corti in Chianti Classico, and continues to search for innovations in winemaking there. One of his latest is a pure Sangiovese called Zac, which is made from a single vineyard on the estate. Zac shares much of the same character and richness of the Don Tommaso Chianti Classico, but with a little more structure and tension. Duccio is also very proud of his red from the Maremma that is called Birillo.

It’s a bold blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. —JS Principe Corsini Chianti Classico Don Tommaso 2007 Dried berries and dried meat on the nose. Full body, with fine tannins and an intense finish of dark chocolate, dark fruits and mushrooms. Impressive wine. Best wine ever from here. 93 Points.

Principe Corsini Maremma Toscana Marsiliana 2007 Chewy and lightly jammy with a chewy, rustic edge. Yet full and satisfying. Spicy and wild. Blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Drink now. 91 Points.

Principe Corsini Toscana Zac 2008 A fresh and lively wine with lemon and dried cherry character. Medium-to-full body, with firm acidity and a tangy, fruity finish. It's got tension. The structure and density of fruit comes through at the finish. A new single vineyard Sangiovese from Duccio Corsini. Better in 2014. 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Principe Corsini Toscana Zac 2008 (93)

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107

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Prunotto

www.prunotto.it

40

I first visited here in 1983, and was impressed with the richness and beauty of the reds -- particularly old bottles of Barolo and Barbaresco from the 1950s and 1960s. It was the genius of two brothers -- Beppe and Tino Colla. They had a knack for buying great grapes from some of the best areas in the region of Piedmont. That talent is the same today, and Prunotto continues to produce unique, vineyard specific Barolos, Barbarescos, and Barberas. Tuscany's Antinoris bought the winery in 1994. —JS Prunotto Barbaresco 2009 Aromas of peaches, plums and strawberries with hints of flowers. Medium-to-full body, with hints of cocoa, berry and orange. It builds on the finish. Very subtle and intriguing wine. Drink or hold. 91 Points.

Prunotto Barolo 2008 The citrus fruit and dried strawberry character comes out clearly on the nose and palate. Undertones of roses. Medium-to-full body with fine tannins and a tangy finish. Subtle and refined with outstanding length. Better in 2014 to come together. 90 Points.

Prunotto Barolo Bussia 2005 A chewy and rich wine with nuts, chocolate and dried berries. Medium-to-full body, with juicy fruit and a long finish. Drink now. 91 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Prunotto Barbaresco Bric Turot 2009 (92) I really like the tangy, savory and ripe fruit character in this wine with the plum undertones. Full and rich yet delicate and refined. Very balanced and elegant. Give it two or three years to come together. 92 Points.

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Querciabella

www.querciabella.com

6

Sebastiano Cossia Castiglioni, the owner of Querciabella, has revolutionized this beautiful hillside winery in the heart of Chianti Classico in recent years. He has converted his vineyards to biodynamic farming and fine-tuned his winery. The results are wines that sing of where they originated. They taste of the unique soil and climate. The Chianti Classico is nearly always of outstanding quality, with the Bordeaux blend Camartina showing excellent finesse and style. Querciabella’s Batàr – a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Bianco – is one of the best whites in Tuscany. I am curious to see how much farther this stylish vintner can take this wonderful estate. —JS Querciabella Chianti Classico 2009 A vivid Chianti Classico, with dark cherry, violets and berries on the nose and palate. Fresh finish.

Made from Biodynamic grapes. 90 Points.

Querciabella Toscana Batar 2009 Aromas similar to pineapple ice cream and apples follow through to a full body, with lots of fruit and firm acidity. Delicious now, but better in 2012. Biodynamically produced. Blend of Pinot Bianco and Chardonnay. 91 Points.

Querciabella Toscana Camartina 2008 A wine with a meaty, spicy, dried berry, and cedar character. Full and chewy. This is very powerful, but a little rustic too. Made from organic grapes. Give it three to four years of bottle age. 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Querciabella Toscana Camartina 2008 (93)

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109

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Renato Ratti

www.renatoratti.com

69

Pietro Ratti is one of the young leaders in the region of Barolo. He follows in his late father’s footsteps by standing up for quality and uniqueness of his wine region and country. Ratti’s single-vineyard Barolos are precisely made with care and understanding. There’s clarity to his wines, and a freshness that enables them to age wonderfully. Year in and year out, Ratti makes outstanding Barolos. His 2008 Barolos shows wonderful harmony. —JS Renato Ratti Barolo Conca 2008 I really like the aromas of spices, leather and ripe fruits that follow through to a full body, with impressive density and a long, long finish. Spicy and intense. Better in 2015. 94 Points.

Renato Ratti Barolo Marcenasco 2008 Relaxed and pretty with with Christmas cake and dried fruit character with hints of meringue. Full body, with fine tannins and a berry, spice and milk chocolate character. Subtle and delicious. Complex. So delicious now but better in two or three years. 93 Points.

Renato Ratti Barolo Rocche 2008 Aromas of hazelnuts and spices with ripe fruits follow through to a full body, with lots of flavor and a polished and caressing mouthfeel of ripe tannins. Really decadent and delicious already. Better in 2015. 95 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Renato Ratti Barolo Rocche 2008 (95)

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Renieri

www.renierimontalcino.com

101

Marco Bacci, of Chianti Classico’s wellrespected wine estate of Castello di Bossi, bought this gorgeous Brunello vineyard in the late 1990s, but it’s only now – with the vines arriving at a good age to produce superlative grapes – that the wines are coming into their own. Renieri has been making excellent wines, both Brunello di Montalcinos and Super Tuscans, since the 2006 vintage. There's so much to look forward to from this Brunello estate. —JS Renieri Brunello di Montalcino 2007 Wild aromas of ripe fruit and fresh porcini mushrooms, follow through to a full body, with big juicy tannins. What it lacks in finesse it gives in opulence. This needs another three to four years to soften. 94 Points.

Renieri Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2006 Ripe plums, with shaved mushroom aromas, follow through to a full body and a juicy rich palate with a beautiful depth of fruit. Very rich and layered, yet balanced. Drink or hold. 95 Points.

Renieri Toscana Re di Renieri 2009 Complex yet subtle aromas of licorice, minerals, blueberries and Indian spices. Full body, with super racy tannins and a gorgeous finish. It goes on for minutes. Cabernet, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Fantastic red. Better in 2015. 95 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Renieri Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2006 (95)

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Roberto Voerzio

www.voerzioroberto.it

42

For me, Roberto Voerzio is Italy’s greatest vine grower. No other exhibits such dedication and rigour in tending to his vines, and this exactitude comes out in his wines. Voerzio’s single-vineyard Barolos are some of the most profound reds in the world, with incredible depth of fruit and structure, yet also harmony.

Don’t miss his wonderful Barolo Fossati Case Nere 10 Anni Riserva 2003, which was just released now after 10 years. Voerzio has made more 100-point wines than any other Italian winemaker.

He is a benchmark in fine winemaking. —JS Roberto Voerzio Barolo La Serra 2008 Subtle aromas of blueberries and porcini mushrooms follow through to a full body, with soft and silky tannins and a delicate chocolate and berry aftertaste. Hard not to drink now but will improve with age. 92 Points.

Roberto Voerzio Barolo Rocche dell'Annunziata Torriglione 2008 The aromas to this are captivating with rose petals and blueberries and incense. Full-bodied, with very fine tannins and a long finish that caresses yet stimulates my palate. I like this a little better than the 2007. Try it in 2015. 97 Points.

Roberto Voerzio Barolo Fossati Case Nere 10 Anni Riserva 2003 Nose of dried fruits such as prunes, with a Christmas-cake undertone. Turns to hints of caramel and spices. Full-bodied, with polished, refined tannins. Turns to Chinese spices, meat, ginseng and berries.

Aged 10 years. First vintage. 95 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Roberto Voerzio Barolo Sarmassa 2008 (95) Crazy nose with blueberries and blackberries and warm stones. Full-bodied, with a wonderfully integrated fruit and tannin structure. Silky and caressing. Almost seamless mouthfeel. Better in 2015.

95 Points.

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San Filippo

www.sanfilippomontalcino.com

90

Roberto Giannelli, owner of the Brunello di Montalcino estate of San Filippo, bought this property a few years ago. He quickly began making stylish and elegant Brunellos. Giannelli has clearly fallen in love with this small, deluxe estate that has about 25 acres of vineyards. His Le Lucére, a single-vineyard Brunello, shows a unique, almost Burgundian richness and texture. Le Lucére also comes in a reserve Brunello in top years.

His Brunello Le Lucere 2008 was one of the best from the vintage and was recently released in the market. —JS San Filippo Brunello di Montalcino Le Lucére 2008 I really like the nose of plums and black cherries with hints of dried flowers. It's full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a balanced, pretty aftertaste. This is a very well-integrated red. Drink or hold. 94 Points.

San Filippo Brunello di Montalcino Le Lucére 2007 Perfumed and beautiful, with flowers and berries. Ripe strawberries on the nose that turn to currants.

Full body, with fine tannins and a clean finish. Wonderful texture here. Goes on for minutes. Drink or hold. 94 Points.

San Filippo Brunello di Montalcino Le Lucére Riserva 2006 Beautiful ripe fruit that turns slightly decadent, with foie gras undertones. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, intense finish. Slightly chewy. Smoky wood. Bitter orange undertones. Better in 2015. 94 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) San Filippo Brunello di Montalcino Le Lucére Riserva 2006 (94)

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San Polino

www.sanpolino.it

74

Luigi and Katia Fabbro have created a tiny nirvana for the production of Brunello di Montalcino on this estate. The almost nine acres of vineyards are biodynamically farmed, and the winemaking is 100 percent “hand-made.” Luigi believes the ecosystem of San Polino, which is located on the northwest side of Montalcino, comes out clearly in his luscious and balanced Brunellos. It’s hard to make up my mind if I really prefer his 2008 or 2007 Brunello. Try his tiny single vineyard Brunello called Helichrysum. —JS San Polino Brunello di Montalcino 2007 Ash and spices, with hints of plums and dark fruits. Full-bodied, with layers of velvety tannins and lots of wood. Impressive intensity of ripe and balanced fruit. Better in 2015. Made from biodynamic grapes. 94 Points.

San Polino Brunello di Montalcino 2008 Very complex aromas of ripe fruits with hints of leather and spices. Full body, with very fine tannins and a silky finish. The polished texture of the tannins is impressive for the vintage. Made from biodynamically grown grapes. Drink or hold. 93 Points.

San Polino Brunello di Montalcino Helichrysum 2007 Bright aromas of raspberries and blackberries, follow through to a full body, with chewy, polished tannins and a juicy finish. Intense wine. Made from a vineyard selection. Better in 2014. 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) San Polino Brunello di Montalcino 2007 (94)

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Scopone

www.winescopone.com

73

The Genazzani Family decided to purchase Scopone, located on the road to Castelnuovo dell’Abate – Sant’Antimo, after trying the simple wine made on the property one year that was given to them in a 50-liter container! The wine was so good that they followed the advice from their old friend and well-known enologist Giacomo Tachis and decided to purchase the vineyards. They have revamped the entire property that has about 10 acres of Brunello vineyards. The winery is proudly run by Tessie Baijens Genazzani with the help of her husband Andrea Genazzani.

Their first vintage was 1997 but the best wines are now. —JS Fattoria Scopone Brunello di Montalcino 2006 Another aromatically gorgeous red, with blackberries, blueberries and flowers. Licorice too. Full body, with soft and silky tannins and plenty of fruit. Wonderful length to it as well. Give it three to four years of bottle age. 94 Points.

Fattoria Scopone Brunello di Montalcino 2007 Sliced peach and berries on the nose follow through to a full body, with chewy tannins and a juicy finish. Hints of cedar too. Delicious wine. 92 Points.

Fattoria Scopone Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2006 Muscular wine. Aromas of dried berries and hints of prunes with spice. Full-bodied, with chunky weight and chewy tannins. Intense finish. Needs time to come around. Best after 2014. 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Fattoria Scopone Brunello di Montalcino 2006 (94)

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115

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Siro Pacenti

www.siropacenti.it

91

The winery of Siro Pacenti, located on the northern slopes of Montalcino, is a leader in the production of Brunello di Montalcino, creating dense and powerful wines through the precise and able winemaking of owner Giancarlo Pacenti. The winemaker produces his Brunellos from vineyards on the northern and southern areas of the appellation, giving them beautiful balance of richness and freshness, no matter the vintage.

Pacenti’s wines age beautifully. His 1997 Brunello is perfect to drink now. He is also one of the best producers of Rosso di Montalcino, a more youthful Sangivoese than his powerful Brunellos. —JS Siro Pacenti Brunello di Montalcino 2008 A beautiful wine with lovely plum and cedar character. Full body, with velvety tannins and a chewy finish. Lots of cocoa powder too. This needs a year or two to soften. 93 Points.

Siro Pacenti Brunello di Montalcino Pelagrilli 2008 Clear aromas of plums, cherries and flowers follow through to a full body, with velvety tannins, fresh acidity and a clean bright finish. A modern and focused wine. Drink or hold. 92 Points.

Siro Pacenti Rosso di Montalcino 2010 Plenty of dried cherries, with chocolate and flowers follow through to a full body, with a dense fruit and tannin structure. Solid. Pacenti makes great Brunello and fine Rosso. Better in 2013. 91 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Siro Pacenti Brunello di Montalcino PS Riserva 2007 (96) Aromas of blueberries, blackberries and hints of hazelnuts and walnuts. Full body, with chewy and silky tannins. This is very structured and needs time to come together. Better after 2016. 96 Points.

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Tasca d’Almerita

www.tascadalmerita.it

34

One of the great names in Sicilian winemaking, with a long history of making delicious whites and ageworthy reds. I first visited the Tasca family’s Regaleali property in the early 1980s, and left impressed with the passion and dedication to quality winemaking. It’s been the same with all the family’s wine holdings. Part of the new history of Tasca d’Almerita is the recent release of its Tascante wines from vineyards in the volcanic area of Etna. These may be the Tascas’ most exciting wines yet. —JS Tasca d’Almerita Sicilia Ghiaia Nera 2010 Fresh and clean with strawberry and lemon peel character. Medium body, with crisp acidity and a clean finish. Made from young vines. Nerello Mascalese from Etna. Drink now. 90 Points

Tasca d'Almerita Sicilia Tascante 2009 Pretty dried strawberry and flowers on the nose follow through to full-bodied, gorgeous tannins. Spicy and intense but bright and elegant. Fantastic. Nerello Mascalese from Etna. 91 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Tasca d'Almerita Sicilia Tascante 2009 (91)

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117

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Tenuta dell’Ornellaia www.ornellaia.com

48

If Italy had a first-growth classification like Bordeaux, then Ornellaia would certainly be just that. Located in the coastal region of Bolgheri, Ornellaia is a modern legend in Tuscan winemaking. Not only does it make a superb Bordeaux blend under the name of the estate, it produces a benchmark pure Merlot called Masseto. It is soon to have its own winery. The Ornellaia property is the jewel of the Frescobaldi family’s Tuscan wine portfolio.

Year in and year out, Ornellaia and Masseto are among the best wines of Italy, and they are the most collectible and some of the most sought-after wines in the world. —JS Tenuta dell'Ornellaia Bolgheri Le Serre Nouve 2010 Very pretty aromas of chocolate, currants and light cream. Full and soft with fine tannins and a delicious finish. Why wait? But will improve with age. 90 Points.

Tenuta dell’Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore Ornellaia 2005 Still very young. Shows complex aromas of ripe fruit, blackberries, plums and currants. Polished, with soft tannins, a full body and a very long finish. Drink or hold. 95 Points.

Tenuta dell’Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore Ornellaia 2009 Subtle and complex with sweet tobacco and chocolate. Tar too. It's full-bodied, with racy tannins and a long finish. So fine. This is the most Cabernet Franc in the blend ever at the estate -- 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 21% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot. Beautiful now but better in 2015. 96 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Tenuta dell’Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore Ornellaia 2005 (95)

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Tenuta di Biserno www.biserno.it

65

This property is a relative newcomer to the world of fine Tuscan wine, but its main owners are longtime heroes in the region: brothers Piero and Lodovico Antinori. Piero is the patriarch of the Antinori wine business, and Lodovico is the former owner of Tenuta dell’Ornellaia. Biserno was established in 2001, in a location on the edge of the appellation of Bolgheri, very close to some of the vineyards of Masseto. The wines are all Bordeaux blends and are hitting their stride now as the vines get older. Explore the 2007s, but the 2008s may be the best ever. The estate is moving towards using more and more Cabernet Franc, which Lodovico believes is the future of his small wine area. —JS Tenuta di Biserno Toscana Biserno 2009 Aromas of blackberries, rosemary, blueberries, and spices. Full body, with fine tannins and a racy, clean finish. Very fine indeed. It goes on for minutes. 95 Points.

Tenuta di Biserno Toscana Il Pino di Biserno 2007 Soft and velvety textured now. Aromas of blackberries with hints of sweet tobacco follow through to a full body, with velvety tannins with juicy and beautiful fruit. Mostly Cabernet Franc with some Petit Verdot, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Just coming around now. Better than I remember. 93 Points.

Tenuta di Biserno Toscana Lodovico 2008 A wine, with beautiful finesse and depth, with blueberry, dark chocolate, and dried strawberry character. Full body, with super polished tannins and a focused, intense finish. Wow. What a finish. Give it three to four years of bottle age. This is from the former owner of Ornellaia and shows amazing class. Almost all Cabernet Franc, with hints of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot. Better in 2014. 95 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Tenuta di Biserno Toscana Biserno 2008 (94) This is very sexy with decadent meat, berries and spices. Cooked rhubarb. Hints of cocoa. Full body, with a racy and intense mid-palate. Racy and balanced. Long, long finish. Just coming around now.

94 Points.

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Tenuta il Palagio

www.palagioproducts.com

32

Recording artist Sting and his wife Trudie Styler have been living for more than a decade on their beautiful Tuscan estate of il Palagio, although they only recently began making wine. All the grapes at the property are grown biodynamically following the dedication of the couple in maintaining the local ecosystem of their property. I was a big fan of their best first release: 2007 Sister Moon, a blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. However, the 2008 and 2009 are even better. There are lots more excellent wines on the way of Il Palagio. —JS Il Palagio Toscana Casino delle Vie 2009 Blackberry, blueberry and spices, with hints of new wood. Full body, with a beautiful core of ripe fruit. Velvety tannins. Biodynamic. From Sting and Trudie Styler. Drink in 2013. 92 Points.

Il Palagio Toscana Sister Moon 2008 Aromas of black pepper and black licorice with blackberries. Full body, with soft and round tannins and a polished tannic finish. It fills your mouth and then caresses your taste buds. A beautiful wine from Sting and Trudie Styler. This grows and entices you as you taste it. A blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Biodynamic wine. 94 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Il Palagio Toscana Sister Moon 2008 (94)

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Tenuta Luce della Vite www.lucedellavite.com

67

This Tuscany wine estate, located in the hills of southern Montalcino, began its life in the mid 1990s as a joint venture between the Florentine Frescobaldi family and California’s Mondavi clan. Through various sell-offs and buyouts, the winery became the property of the Frescobaldis, with a minuscule part remaining with Michael Mondavi. I think the wines have never been better. There’s the opulent Merlot and Sangiovese blend of Luce della Vite, a great Brunello and the second wine Lucente. The most recent releases of all three are excellent, particularly the 2007 Brunello. —JS Luce della Vite Brunello di Montalcino Luce 2007 Aromas of dark fruits, with plums and lemon rind follow through to a full body with lots of juicy fruit and velvety tannins. Tannin quality is impressive. Hints of cocoa and spices. Intense finish. Try after 2014. 97 Points.

Luce della Vite Toscana Luce 2008 Aromas of dark berries, currants, toasted oak and chocolate. Full and velvety, with soft and silky tannins and a long delicious finish. I really appreciate the balance to this. Best in 2013. 95 Points.

Luce della Vite Toscana Lucente 2010 Fascinating aromas of ripe berries and hints of coconut and vanilla bean follow through to a full body, with super silky tannins and a long and intense finish. Lots going on here. Excellent value. Needs at another year or two to come together. But so excellent now. 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Luce della Vite Brunello di Montalcino Luce 2007 (97)

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Tenuta San Guido www.sassicaia.com

37

The home of Tuscany’s legendary red Sassicaia, this fabulous coastal property in Bolgheri takes your breath away (and comes complete with an internationally recognized stud farm rearing world-class racehorses). I have tasted every commercial vintage of its wonderful Cabernet Sauvignon blend, and it is amazing how the wines of Sassicaia evolve with such beauty and grace. Sassicaia often shows its true magic after about 10 years in the bottle and are easy to misjudge when young. This is a wine that deserves to be in every serious collector’s cellar. —JS Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri-Sassicaia Sassicaia 2006 Sweet tobacco and berry with hints of currants. Full, soft and silky. Lots of fruit and a long finish.

It's subtle, dense and sophisticated. Please give this another five years to really show what it has. 95 Points.

Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri-Sassicaia Sassicaia 2007 This is classy on the nose with subtle currant, sweet tobacco, cigar box and dried flowers. Cassis too.

Full body, with refined tannins and a solid core of fruit. Polished and very pretty. Long and delicious already. But you have to wait on this. It has so much more to give. Try after 2015. 93 Points.

Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri-Sassicaia Sassicaia 2008 This is the best young Sassicaia in years. It's the new 1988 -- which was great, sometimes better than the legendary 1985. What incredible aromas here with blueberries, spices, licorice, plums. Graphite too. Subtle and complex. Full and silky with a beautiful texture of fine tannins and an ultra-fine finish. So beautiful now but will be much better in 2015. Owner Nicolo Incisa della Rocchetta says that Sassicaia is always great in years that end with 8: 1958, 1968, 1978, 1988, 1998, and 2008.

97 Points.

Tenuta San Guido Bogheri-Sassicaia Sassicaia 2010 The 2010 Sassicaia was just released and it's an outstanding bottle. I think that people are going to love this newest Sass. The red is very aromatic with currant, dried berry, coco bean, and hints of wood.

It's full-bodied, with intense yet very polished tannins and a long finish. It's very refined and beautiful with a tangy finish. The Cabernet Franc comes through here at the finish. Lively. Hard not to drink now. 94 points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri-Sassicaia Sassicaia 2004 (94) A wine with beautiful aromas of currants and light chocolate with hints of sweet tobacco. It's fullbodied and very refined with integrated tannins. It still needs time to give its full potential, but it's a beautiful wine with excellent length and class. Drink or hold. 94 Points.

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Tenuta Sette Ponti

www.tenutasetteponti.it

36

Fashion entrepreneur Antonio Moretti certainly has a passion for great wines.

He took control of his family’s Tuscan vineyards at Sette Ponti, about 20 miles north of Arezzo, and began making top-quality reds Oreno and Crognolo in the late 1990s. And he continues to make excellent wines. Recent vintages of his flagship wine, Oreno, have been only Bordeaux grape types giving the red better focus, depth and length. The 2010 Oreno is one of his best ever. Moretti is also the owner of the up-andcoming Bolgheri estate of Orma, as well as Sicily’s Feudo Maccari. —JS Tenuta Sette Ponti Toscana Crognolo 2010 A wine with currant, spices and hazelnut character. Full body, with well-integrated tannins and a long finish. Chewy and rich. Consistently outstanding. Better in 2014. 92 Points.

Tenuta Sette Ponti Toscana Oreno 2009 Ripe red with plum and berry character and big velvety tannins. Full and round mouthfeel. Lots of wood but juicy fruit carries the wine. Tuscany meets Napa. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Better in 2015. 95 Points.

Tenuta Sette Ponti Toscana Oreno 2010 Love the aromas to this red with currants, blackberries and hints of dark truffles. Full-bodied, with beautifully crafted tannins that are creamy and seamless. Fabulous refinement and length. Leave it in your cellar for at least four or five years. But impressive to taste or drink now. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. One of best Orenos ever made since its inception in 1999. 96 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Tenuta Sette Ponti Toscana Oreno 2010 (96)

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Tenute Ambrogio e Giovanni Folonari www.tenutefolonari.com

48

Father and son team Ambrogio and Giovanni Folonari have been making excellent Tuscan wines for decades, first at the ever popular Ruffino and later at their own estates in Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino and Bolgheri, among others. Their super Tuscan red Cabreo, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese from Chianti Classico, may be their best known wine, and the 2009 is one of the best ever. No matter the appellation, the Folonaris' wines always have an attractive balance and a sense of place. —JS Cabreo Toscana Il Borgo 2009 Love the aromas of smoky meats and spices with salami as well. Turns to Indian spices. Full yet delicate and delicious. Long juicy, fruity and complex finish. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese. Why wait? But it will be much better in two or three years, and beyond. 95 Points.

Tenuta La Fuga Brunello di Montalcino 2007 Dark fruits, with blueberries and lemon rind. Full body, with creamy acidity and chewy tannins. Lots of new wood and a fresh finish. Chewy. Better in 2013. 93 Points.

Campo al Mare Bolgheri Superiore Baia al Vento 2009 Aromas of sweet tobacco and prunes with hints of coffee. Full body, with soft tannins and a chocolate, coffee and berry aftertaste. This is delicious now but will improve with three to four years of bottle age.

93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Cabreo Toscana Il Borgo 2009 (95)

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Tenute Silvio Nardi www.tenutenardi.com

75

Female winemakers in Tuscany are rare, but Emilia Nardi has come through as a leader in the region with her sturdy and wellcrafted Brunello di Montalcinos. Nardi’s wines are consistently outstanding quality in nearly every vintage. Try the Brunello Manachiara, which is a bottling of the oldest vineyards on the property, and focuses on structure and power with finesse.

Nardi’s 2007 Brunellos are some of her best ever. —JS Silvio Nardi Brunello di Montalcino 2007 A very structured 2007 Brunello, with ripe and firm tannins and beautiful fresh fruit. Full body, chewy and intense, with a long finish. This is the best from here in years. Wonderful depth of fruit. Try in 2016. 95 Points.

Silvio Nardi Brunello di Montalcino Vigneto Manachiara 2006 Love the aromas of black truffles, with grilled meat and dark fruits. Full body, with intense chewy tannins that are ripe and mouth puckering. This needs time to soften and mellow. Outstanding. Best after 2013. 92 Points.

Silvio Nardi Brunello di Montalcino Vigneto Manachiara 2007 Intense aromas of cloves and dried rose petal with dark fruits. Full body, with chewy tannins and fresh fruit and acidity. Lively style of wine. Love the intensity to it. Drink now or hold. 94 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Silvio Nardi Brunello di Montalcino 2007 (95)

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Table #

Tommasi

www.tommasiwine.it

30

It's all about family winemaking at Tommasi. It always has been that way since 1902 when the winery was founded.

Everyone from Giancarlo, the winemaker, to Pierangelo, commercial director, are family members. And there is a wholesome honesty to the wines of Tommasi, especially the Amarone della Valpolicella. Tommasi Amarones show a balance and richness that I appreciate instead of some slightly overdone styles in the region. —JS Tommasi Valpolicella Ripasso 2011 A wine with a lovely balance and fruit with refined and beautiful fruit. Medium-to- full body, with very integrated tannins and a long, long finish. A blend of Corvina and Rondinella. 90 Points.

Tommasi Amarone della Valpolicella 2009 Very beautiful aromas of dried fruits, with hints of flowers and spices such as closes and dried lavender.

Full body, with very fine tannins and long and beautiful finish. It goes on and on. Similar to 2007.

So drinkable now. 92 Points.

Tommasi Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2008 A wine with spicy, peppery and minty character as well as dried fruits. More sultanas than dark fruits.

Full and chewy with a lovely balance and length. Loads going on. Better in 2015. 92 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Tommasi Amarone della Valpolicella 2009 (92)

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Tua Rita

www.tuarita.it

96

This coastal winery built its global reputation on a fabulously rich Merlot called Redigaffi, which came onto the Tuscan wine scene in the early 1990s. Within just a few years, many top wine collectors were buying and drinking the wine. The 1997 Redigaffi, in fact, received numerous 100-point scores -- including from me. Today, Tua Rita is making many excellent wines under the direction of owner Stefano Frascolla. They include a stylish Bordeaux blend called Giusto di Notri and a bold Syrah. Frascolla’s white, called Lodano, is a stylish blend of Riesling, Traminer and Chardonnay.

It's all excellent here. —JS Tua Rita Syrah Toscana 2008 Meaty and rich with decadent aromas. Full and juicy with lots of fruit and soft tannins. Black pepper and dark fruits.I like the voluptuous style to this. Why wait? But better in 2013. 95 Points.

Tua Rita Toscana Giusto di Notri 2010 Very beautiful aromas of crushed currants and blackberries. Full body, with lots of silky tannins and a long fresh finish. Focused and balanced. Cabernet Sauvignon blend. Better after 2014. 94 Points.

Tua Rita Toscana Redigaffi 2008 This is a phenomenal wine with blackberries, black olives, orange, and spices on the nose and palate.

It's full-bodied and super silky with a very long and rich finish, yet powerful and bright. Not heavy.

It remains so intense and structured. I can't make up my mind for the moment if I like it better than the 2007, but it could be in the long run. So long and racy. Incredible. Pure Merlot. Give it five to six years of bottle age. 98 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Tua Rita Toscana Redigaffi 2008 (98)

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Table #

Uccelliera

www.uccelliera-montalcino.it

71

The qualitative evolution in the winemaking at this Brunello di Montalcino estate is an excellent example of how small wine producers have better focused their viticulture and winemaking in the last decades. The Brunellos of Uccelliera first came on to the international market in the 1990s, but the quality was not up to much. After owner Andrea Cortonesi revamped the vineyards and winery, however, the wines of Uccelliera came into their own. The wines always reflect the true nature of the vintage as well as Uccelliera's unique growing area in Montalcino. Compare all three vintages. —JS Uccelliera Brunello di Montalcino 2007 Very floral, with dark fruits and sandalwood aromas. Full body, with silky tannins and a fruity, tangy finish. The balance and finesse for a wine with wonderful depth is impressive. Try in 2015. 94 Points.

Uccelliera Brunello di Montalcino 2008 Aromas of chocolate and black cherries with sweet fruit undertone. Full and very soft tannins with a bright acidity underneath. Velvety texture to this wine. Drink or hold. 93 Points.

Uccelliera Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2007 Fascinating aromas of sliced porcini mushroom and ripe fruit. Full body, with a lovely core of ripe fruit and round tannins. It's very flavorful and rich. So long. These people make great wines. Drink or hold. 96 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Uccelliera Brunello di Montalcino 2006 (96) This is so structured. Stunning. Decadent aromas of plum and roasted meat, then turns to toffee, follows through to a full body, with chewy tannins and a mineral, dried flower undertone. Tannic.

Lots of dried fruits on the palate. This needs some bottle age to soften. Very powerful and structured.

Amazing. Best after 2015. 96 Points.

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Valdicava

www.valdicava.it

72

Something almost mystical comes through in the Brunello di Montalcinos from this wonderful wine estate. Firstly, that mystique must emanate from the sublime vineyards located on the north side of Montalcino – they produce exquisite grapes.

Secondly, there is the guru-like dedication of owner Vincenzo Abbruzzese to consider. He is a genius at creating perfectly crafted examples of Tuscan Sangiovese. Abbruzzese makes a regularbottling Brunello, as well as a single-vineyard riserva called Madonna del Piano. I scored two – his 2001 and 2006 Madonnas – 100 points. They are all mesmerizing wines. —JS Valdicava Brunello di Montalcino 2006 Love the nose on this with blackberries, sweet tobacco, blueberries. Full body, with soft and silky tannins and a light jammy finish. Lots of dark fruits. Long finish. Loads going on in this one. Better in 2016. 97 Points.

Valdicava Brunello di Montalcino 2007 What beautiful clear fruit here, with plums and spices and hints of flowers. Class. Full- bodied and luscious, this Brunello fills your mouth, with polished velvety tannins and gorgeous fruit. So wonderful and gorgeous. Irresistible. Better than 2006. Best after 2016. 98 Points.

Valdicava Brunello di Montalcino Madonna del Piano Riserva 2006 Amazing aromas of blueberries and flowers, with black truffles and pie. Foie gras, mushrooms and white truffles too. Powerful, with great depth of gorgeous fruit and ultra-fine tannins. It fills your mouth with fruit and ripe tannins. Complex and long. A breathtaking wine. Truly glorious. Better in 2015. 100 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Valdicava Brunello di Montalcino 2006 (97)

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Table #

Valle dell'Acate

www.valledellacate.com

7

This is a producer who does wondrous wines with such grape types as Cerasuolo and Frappato, not to mention Nero d'Avola. These are delicate and subtle wines that are reminiscent of red Burgundies in texture but offer special aromatic and flavor profiles. They are versatile reds that go well with lighter dishes from grilled fish to cold meats and, of course, pasta. Gaetana Jacono believes that it's these wines from her about 250 acres of vineyards in the southern part of the island, near Ragus that truly illustrate what makes Sicilian wines unique. I have to agree. —JS Valle dell’Acate Vittoria Frappato 2012 Really delicious with sliced strawberries and sour cherries on the nose and palate. Medium body, with fresh acidity and a clean finish. Tangy and delicately fruity. 90 Points.

Valle dell’Acate Sicilia Tane 2010 A stylish wine with character of meat, cherries and mahogany. Full body, with fine tannins and tangy acidity. Round and fruity. Juicy and savory. Very intense. A dusty, pretty texture to this. A blend of Syrah and Nero d'Avola. 92 Points.

Valle dell’Acate Cerasuolo di Vittoria 2010 Very intense aromas of stewed cherries and flowers that follow through to a medium body, with fine tannins and a fresh clean finish. Lovely texture to this wine with a dusty, yet delicate tannins and fresh acidity. A blend of Nero d'Avola and Fappato aged in oak barrel before bottling. Drink now. 91 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Valle dell’Acate Sicilia Tane 2010 (92)

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Vie di Romans

www.viediromans.it

3

The whites of Vie de Romans are some of the best of Italy. In fact, they have the weight and complexity of some of the best whites in the world, and that means white Burgundy and white dry Bordeaux. This is all from the magic touch of owner Gianfranco Gallo, who gets the most out of his vines in Friuli as well as hand makes his wines to near perfection. His Pinot Grigio, called Dessimis, shows breathtaking intensity and texture -- not like most weak Pinot Grigios sold in the world! And the Chardonnay, Ciampagnis Vieris, is layered and rich like a top Meursault. His Sauvignon Blanc beat many Pouilly Fumes. And don't forget the blended white -- Flors di Uis. Most are single vineyard wines. —JS Vie di Romans Sauvignon Blanc Friuli Isonzo Piere 2009 The nose on this is phenomenal, with intense sliced peaches. Full body and loads of fruit with a long flavorful finish. Drink now. 93 Points.

Vie di Romans Friuli Isonzo Flors di Uis 2009 Subtle and complex with lemon, tea leaf, sliced peaches, and minerals. Full body, with intense fruit and a long finish. From Malvasia Istriana, Tocai Friulano and Riesling Renano. Drink now. 93 Points.

Vie di Romans Chardonnay Friuli Isonzo Ciampagnis Vieris 2009 A rich and fruity Chardonnay with apple pie and milk aromas and flavors. Full and fruity, with lots going on. Always excellent. Drink now. 91 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Vie di Romans Flors di Uis 2009 (93)

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Table #

Villa Sparina

www.villasparina.it

5

Some people don’t take Gavi seriously, believing that it makes only simple, fresh and crisp white wines. They obviously have not tasted the wines of Villa Sparina. The Moccagatta family is dedicated to producing structured and age-worthy Gavis using great white Burgundy as a model. And they are succeeding. Their small-production, single-vineyard Gavi, called Monterotondo, is a knockout. They also make wonderful Barberabased reds. —JS Villa Sparina Gavi 2011 Fascinating aromas of chalk, dried lemon and pineapple. Just a touch of cream as well. Full body, with tangy lemon character and a long flavorful finish. This is minerally and delicious. Drink now.

91 Points.

Villa Sparina Gavi Monterotondo 2010 Gavi? Yes, serious Gavi! Aromas of pear pie and sliced lemons with other citrus fruit. Full body, dense and layered with chalk and dried apple character. Reminds me of premiere cru Chabils. Outstanding quality. Drink or age. 93 Points.

Villa Sparina Monferrato Rivalta 2009 Lots of ripe fruit and vanilla character. Full-bodied and very rich with cream, dried fruits and a long finish. Juicy and rich. Big and juicy. Opulent blend here. Mostly Barbera with a hint of Merlot. 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Villa Sparina Gavi Monterotondo 2010 (93)

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Vitalonga

www.vitalonga.it

62

Vitalonga is one of a number of small wineries making excellent wines in a super Umbrian style, very much like their neighbors in Tuscany. However, the family owned winery uses a lot of Montepulciano that gives their red richness and power with loads of dark and smoky undertones.

Although the Francesco family has been making wines here since the 1950s, it's Gian Luigi and Pier Francesco who put major improvements in place and first launched their wines in 2004. This is a winery that seems to be improving every vintage. —JS Vitalonga Umbria Terre di Confine 2010 This is so beautiful and refined with dark fruits, berries and chocolate. Full body, with hints of walnuts and dried fruits. Chewy yet polished tannins and a long finish. A bit of smoky new wood showing now but will come together nicely in a year or two. A blend of 80% Montepulciano and 20% Merlot. 92 Points.

Vitalonga Umbria Phiculle 2010 A big and juicy wine with dried berries, plums and milk chocolate. Full body, with integrated tannins and a long, fresh finish. Lots of smoky oak with ripe fruit. Chewy yet juicy and flavorful. A Cabernet Franc and Montepulciano blend. Better in 2014 but why wait? 93 Points.

Vitalonga Umbria Elcione 2010 This is very refined with a lovely core of dark fruit and cherries. Medium-to-full body, with fine tannins. Love the pretty fruit and lovely texture. 90 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Vitalonga Umbria Phiculle 2010 (93)

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Table #

Zaccagnini

www.cantinazaccagnini.it

52

This family-run winery from Abruzzo makes some of the best value reds in the world. The fresh and fruity Montepulciano d'Abruzzo sells hundreds of thousands of bottles around the world -- particularly in the United States. Many people simply call it the "vine cutting" bottle because of the piece of wood attached to the neck. But this wine underlines what great value wines come from the appellation. I have visited a couple of times to Abruzzo and visited Zaccagnini. It is a breathtaking vineyard area that combines the blue sea with bold mountain hillsides. Winemaker Concezio Marulli really knows how to source wonderful grapes and make fine wines. This is a "go-to" red. —JS Ciccio Zaccagnini Montepulciano d'Abruzzo 2010 Soft textured and delicious, this is always one of the top values from Italy. Full body, with plums, dried strawberries and hints of cedar. It's long and delicious. Drink now. 90 Points.

Ciccio Zaccagnini Montepulciano d'Abruzzo San Clemente 2007 Aromas of hardwoods and ripe dark fruits. Full body, with velvety tannins and a long and intense finish. Rich and powerful. Robusto. Drink now. 93 Points.

Wine Collector's Dinner (May 9) Ciccio Zaccagnini Montepulciano d'Abruzzo San Clemente 2007 (93)

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Wine Collector's Dinner Table Guide

TABLE 1 • Marchesi Frescobaldi • Fattoria Vitticio • Villa Sparina

TABLE 11 • Podere Carnisciale • Feudi San Gregorio • La Rasina

TABLE 2 • Tenuta Luce della Vite • La Valentina • Empson • Cascina Adelaide

TABLE 12 • Ceretto • Monteverro • San Polino • Molino di Grace

TABLE 3 • Marchesi Antinori • Livio Felluga • Tenute Ambrogio e Giovanni Folonari TABLE 4 • Podere Sapaio • Prunotto • Tasca d'Almerita • Fanti TABLE 5 • Tua Rita • Fontanafredda • Caparzo TABLE 6 • Argiano • Giacomo Borgono • Arnaldo Caprai • Bellavista TABLE 7 • Valdicava • Fontodi • Caiarossa TABLE 8 • La Spinetta • Diadema • Il Poggione • Castello di Querceto TABLE 9 • Siro Pacenti • San Filippo • Parusso TABLE 10 • Castelvecchio San Casciano V. Pesa • Masciarelli • Castello Vicchiomaggio • Gianni Gagliardo

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TABLE 13 • Ciacci Piccolomini • Fattoria Le Pupille • Renato Ratti TABLE 14 • Ca' Viola • Barrachi • Scopone • Mastroberardino TABLE 15 • Tenuta dell' Ornellaia • Castello Banfi • Il Palagio TABLE 16 • Querciabella • Pio Cesare • Tommasi • Valle dell' Acate TABLE 17 • Casavona di Neri • Il Borro • Michele Chiarlo • Carpineta Fontalpino TABLE 18 • Donnachiara • Petra • Massolino TABLE 19 • Bibi Graetz • Domenico Clerico • Conterno Fantino TABLE 20 • Renieri • Cusumano • Castello di Bossi • Tenute Silvio Nardi

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30 26

29 28

25 22

21

23 18 17

24

20 19

16 15

12

14 11

13

8

10 9

7 6 5 2

4 1

TABLE 21 • La Massa • Marchesi Mazzei • Planeta TABLE 22 • Roberto Voerzio • Uccelleria • Nittardi • Masi TABLE 23 • Tenuta Sette Ponti • Castiglion del Bosco • Oddero TABLE 24 • Brancaia • Inama • Feudo Maccari • Orma TABLE 25 • Damilano • Fulgini • Petrolo • Giacosa

3

TABLE 26 • Pieropan • Agricola Punica • Pietradoce • Hauner/Casematte TABLE 27 • Tenuta San Guido • Zaccagnini • Casaloste TABLE 28 • Tenuta Biserno • Principe Corsini • Podere Aldo Conterno • Vitalonga TABLE 29 • Il Pollenza • Cottanera • Podernuovo • Felsina TABLE 30 • La Serena • Mauro Molino • Vie di Romans • Da Vinci

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Welcome to the Wine Collector's Dinner!

The Wine Collector's Dinner isn't much different than what happens on a regular basis at my house in Tuscany or Hong Kong. I regularly get together with family and friends and share bottles of wine with good, simple food. Everyone brings a bottle to share.

This is what we are doing at the Wine Collector's Dinner, but the participating wineries provided most of the wines for the evening.

Some wine collectors are bringing bottles to share as well.

Remember what's so great about Italian wines -- they are made to be shared with excellent food, whether a piece of grilled steak or a simple pasta with diced tomatoes and basil. I think it's the acid and fruit balance of Italian wines that make them accompany food so well. They cleanse and arouse your palate to better enjoy food. Italians would not have it any other way. As we all know, wine in Italy is considered an integral part of any meal (except of breakfast!) just like water, bread or olive oil.

The format of the dinner is simple. Bottles (often times magnums) are on the table with their respective winemakers.

They will serve participants close to them. Please don't be bashful; ask for a glass of what you would like to try. You can also go to another table and ask to share their wines.

In addition, a wine bar table is available to try many other wines as well. Spittoons are also available at the bar.

The food is family style. So help yourself when it arrives. One of the New York's top caterers prepared all of the food -- Olivier Cheng. Bellavista provided the sparking wine at the beginning of the event -- a Bellavista Franciacorta Gran CuvĂŠe Brut NV. Sparea contributed the water. Lalique & James Suckling 100 Points provided the wine glasses. It's the first time I have offered my wine glass to be used at a public event.

I really hope the evening is a success and highlights the joys of great Italian wine, delicious food and warm conviviality.

James Suckling

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Wine Featured at the Wine Collector's Dinner Agricola Punica

Agricola Punica Isola dei Nuraghi Barrua 2009 (92)

Argiano

Argiano Brunello di Montalcino 2007 (92)

Arnaldo Caprai

Arnaldo Caprai Sagrantino di Montefalco Venticinque Anni 2005 (93)

Baracchi

Riccardo Baracchi Pinot Nero Toscana 2010 (94)

Bellavista

Bellavista Franciacorta Gran Cuvée Brut 2007 (90)

Bibi Graetz

Bibi Graetz Toscana Testamatta 2009 (95)

Brancaia

Brancaia Toscana Il Blu 2008 (93)

Bruno Giacosa

Bruno Giacosa Barolo Le Rocche del Falletto Riserva 2007 (100)

Ca’Viola

Ca'Viola Barolo Sotto Castello 2007 (93)

Caiarossa

Caiarossa Toscana 2004 (93)

Caparzo

Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino La Casa 2006 (95)

Carpineta Fontalpino

Carpineta Fontalpino Chianti Classico Riserva 2009 (93)

Casaloste

Casaloste Chianti Classico Riserva 2007 (92)

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Wine Featured at the Wine Collector's Dinner: Casanova di Neri

Casanova di Neri Brunello di Montalcino Cerretalto 2007 (97)

Cascina Adelaide

Cascina Adelaide Barolo Cannubi 2008 (93)

Castello Banfi

Castello Banfi Brunello di Montalcino Poggio alle Mura 2007 (96)

Castello di Bossi

Castello di Bossi Toscana Girolamo 2007 (93)

Castello di Querceto

Castello di Querceto Colli della Toscana Centrale La Corte 2008 (93)

Castello Vicchiomaggio

Castello di Vicchiomaggio Chianti Classico Vigna La Prima Riserva 2009 (92)

Castelvecchio in San Casciano Val di Pesa Castelvecchio in San Casciano Val di Pesa Toscana Il Brecciolino 2007 (93)

Castiglion del Bosco

Castiglion del Bosco Toscana Prima Pietra 2009 (96)

Ceretto

Ceretto Barolo Bricco Rocche 2004 (95)

Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona

Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona Brunello di Montalcino Vigna di Pianrosso Caterina d'Oro Riserva 2006 (95)

Conterno-Fantino

Conterno-Fantino Barolo Sori Ginestra 2008 (94)

Cottanera Cottanera Etna Barbazzale 2012 (90)

Cusumano

Cusumano Nero d'Avola Sicilia 2011 (90)

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Wine Featured at the Wine Collector's Dinner: Damilano

Damilano Barolo Cannubi 2008 (95)

DaVinci

DaVinci Cantine Leonardo Brunello di Montalcino 2007 (92)

Diadema

Diadema Toscana 2009 (91)

Domenico Clerico

Domenico Clerico Barolo Pajana 2007 (97)

Donnachiara

Donnachiara Irpinia Code di Volpe 2011 (91)

Empson

Toscolo Chianti Classico 2009 (92)

Fanti

Fanti Brunello di Montalcino 2007 (95)

Fattoria Le Pupille

Fattoria Le Pupille Maremma Toscana Saffredi 2007 (94)

Fattoria Viticcio

Viticcio Chianti Classico Riserva 2009 (94)

Felsina

Felsina Toscana Fontalloro 2008 (93)

Feudi di San Gregorio

Feudi di San Gregorio Irpinia Serpico 2007 (93)

Feudo Maccari

Feudo Maccari Nero d’Avola Sicilia Saia 2010 (93)

Fontanafredda/Mirafiore

Fontanafredda Barolo La Rosa 2008 (94)

Fontodi

Fontodi Chianti Classico Vigna del Sorbo Riserva 2009 (95)

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Wine Featured at the Wine Collector's Dinner: Fuligni

Eredi Fuligni Brunello di Montalcino 2008 (93)

Gianfranco Sabatino

Hauner Carlo Malvasia delle Lipari Passito Selezione Carlo Hauner 2011 (96)

Giacomo Borgogno

Giacomo Borgogno Barolo Riserva 1961 (95)

Gianni Gagliardo

Gianni Gagliardo Barolo Cannubi 2008 (95)

Il Borro

Il Borro Toscana 2009 (93)

Il Molino di Grace

Il Molino di Grace Toscana Gratius 2007(92)

Il Poggione

Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2007 (95)

Il Pollenza

Il Pollenza Marche Porpora 2009 (93)

Inama

Inama Veneto Bradisismo 2008 (93)

La Massa

La Massa Toscana Giorgio Primo 2009 (97)

La Rasina

La Rasina Brunello di Montalcino 2007 (95)

La Serena

La Serena Brunello di Montalcino 2007 (94)

La Spinetta

La Spinetta Barolo Vigneto Campe Riserva 2007 (94)

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Wine Featured at the Wine Collector's Dinner: La Valentina

La Valentina Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Spelt 2008 (92)

Livio Felluga

Livio Felluga Colli Orientali del Friuli Sosso Rosazzo Rosso Riserva 2006 (93)

Marchesi Antinori

Antinori Toscana Solaia 2009 (96)

Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi

Marchesi de' Frescobaldi Brunello di Montalcino Castelgiocondo Riserva 2006 (95)

Marchesi Mazzei

Mazzei Toscana Castello di Fonterutoli Siepi 2008 (93)

Masciarelli

Masciarelli Trebbiano d’Abruzzo Castello di Semivicoli 2008 (92)

Masi

Masi Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Campolongo di Torbe 2006 (98)

Massolino Massolino Barolo Margheria 2007 (94)

Mastroberardino

Mastroberardino Taurasi Radici 2007 (93)

Mauro Molino

Mauro Molino Barolo Vigna Conca 2008 (94)

Michele Chiarlo

Michele Chiarlo Barolo Cannubi 2007 (92)

Monteverro

Monteverro Toscana 2009 (95)

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Wine Featured at the Wine Collector's Dinner: Nittardi

Nittardi Maremma Toscana Nectar Dei 2009 (93)

Oddero

Oddero Barolo Villero 2008 (92)

Orma

Orma Toscana 2009 (95)

Parusso

Parusso Barolo 2008 (93)

Petra

Petra Toscana 2007 (92)

Petrolo

Petrolo Toscana Galatrona 2009 (97)

Pieropan

Pieropan Amarone della Valpolicella Vigna Garzon 2009 (96)

Pietradolce

Pietradolce Etna Archineri 2009 (95)

Pio Cesare

Pio Cesare Barolo Ornato 2008 (97)

Planeta

Planeta Sicilia Santa Cecila 2008 (93)

Podere Il Carnasciale

Carnasciale Toscana Caberlot 2008 (95)

Podernuovo a Palazzone

Podernuovo a Palazzone Toscana Sotirio 2009 (92)

Podere Sapaio

Podere Sapaio Bolgheri Superiore Sapaio 2008 (94)

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Wine Featured at the Wine Collector's Dinner: Poderi Aldo Conterno

Aldo Conterno Barolo Cicala 2008 (96)

Principe Corsini

Principe Corsini Toscana Zac 2008 (93)

Prunotto

Prunotto Barbaresco Bric Turot 2009 (92)

Querciabella

Querciabella Toscana Camartina 2008 (93)

Renato Ratti

Renato Ratti Barolo Rocche 2008 (95)

Renieri

Renieri Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2006 (95)

Roberto Voerzio

Roberto Voerzio Barolo Sarmassa 2008 (95)

San Filippo

San Filippo Brunello di Montalcino Le Lucére Riserva 2006 (94)

San Polino

San Polino Brunello di Montalcino 2007 (94)

Scopone

Fattoria Scopone Brunello di Montalcino 2006 (94)

Siro Pacenti

Siro Pacenti Brunello di Montalcino PS Riserva 2007 (96)

Tasca d’Almerita

Tasca d’Almerita Sicilia Ghiaia Nera 2010 (90)

Tenuta dell’Ornellaia

Tenuta dell’Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore Ornellaia 2005 (95)

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Wine Featured at the Wine Collector's Dinner: Tenuta di Biserno

Tenuta di Biserno Toscana Biserno 2008 (94)

Tenuta il Palagio

Il Palagio Toscana Sister Moon 2008 (94)

Tenuta Luce della Vite

Luce della Vite Brunello di Montalcino Luce 2007 (97)

Tenuta San Guido

Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri-Sassicaia Sassicaia 2004 (93)

Tenuta Sette Ponti

Tenuta Sette Ponti Toscana Oreno 2010 (96)

Tenute Ambrogio e Giovanni Folonari Cabreo Toscana Il Borgo 2009 (95)

Tenute Silvio Nardi

Silvio Nardi Brunello di Montalcino 2007 (95)

Tommasi

Tommasi Amarone della Valpolicella 2009 (92)

Tua Rita

Tua Rita Toscana Redigaffi 2008 (98)

Uccelliera

Uccelliera Brunello di Montalcino 2006 (96)

Valdicava

Valdicava Brunello di Montalcino 2006 (97)

Valle dell'Acate

Valle dell’Acate Sicilia Tane 2010 (92)

Vie di Romans

Vie di Romans Flors di Uis 2009 (93)

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Wine Featured at the Wine Collector's Dinner: Villa Sparina

Villa Sparina Gavi Monterotondo 2010 (93)

Vitalonga

Vitalonga Umbria Phiculle 2010 (93)

Zaccagnini

Ciccio Zaccagnini Montepulciano d'Abruzzo San Clemente 2007 (93)

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Notes

*Prices good until 5/15/13 or while supplies last. discount applies to the regular bottle price of all Event wines only. If the item is already part of an on-going net sale, the customer will get the net sale price or 15% off the regular bottle price, whichever is the lower of the two prices. discount cannot be applied to previous purchases or combined with other offers. Not responsible for typographical errors. Prices subject to change without notice.

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