Canalicchio di Sopra Brunello di Montalcino Docg 2019

Song: The Ballad of Curtis Loew by Lynyrd Skynyd. The three Ripaccioli siblings represent the third generation of Canalicchio di Sopra, continuing a long farming tradition in Montalcino that spans several generations. The winery itself, located in the Northeastern side of Brunelloland, was founded in 1962 when their grandfather, Primo Pacenti, one of the ‘founding members’ of the Brunello Consortium, acquired the estate. Francesco Ripaccioli, the latest-generation winemaker, is the guardian of a rich Sangiovese tradition, embracing an Old School philosophy of minimal intervention in the cellar to preserve the authenticity and the character of this remarkable terroir. With its bright ruby-red hue and garnet reflections, Canalicchio’s 2019 Brunello embodies the essence of Montalcino, a must-have for any serious collector seeking to grasp the sheer complexity and excellence this region has to offer. Boasting remarkable aromatic intensity, this wine is a true reflection of the outstanding 2019 vintage. It opens with vibrant notes of maraschino cherry and balsamic nuances, intertwined with delicate floral hints of orange blossom, lavender, and gorse. Layers of dark spice such as licorice, add intrigue, alongside quintessential Tuscan notes of leather and forest undergrowth. On the palate, it makes an immediate and powerful impression, showcasing remarkable depth and complexity. An energetic ‘Rock’n’Roll’ rhythm drives the tasting experience, leading to a creamy and more Blues tannic structure. The finish is long and savory, with a lingering aftertaste of wild roses, red currants, tobacco, and supple leather. Every sip of this wine is a portrait of Montalcino itself, a sensory journey through the breathtaking landscapes of this enchanting Tuscan town. Best paired with one of my favorite songs of all time, this Rock-Blues ballad by Lynyrd Skynyrd. 100% Sangiovese. 1bt in Shipment. Drink Through 2025-2032. Open 3h before. Price $89

Tenuta Carretta Barbaresco Cascina Bordino Docg 2021

Song: Hotel California by Eagles. Tenuta Carretta is a historic estate in Roero, the heart of Piedmont, with documented origins dating back to 1467, when it was already renowned for its wine production. Owned by the Miroglio family, also known for their eponymous fashion brand, Tenuta Carretta has vineyards across various areas of Langhe. The estate produces top-quality wines that stand out for their finesse and authenticity, with exceptional expressions of both Barolo and Barbaresco. With its bright ruby red color, this Barbaresco showcases the complexity of the exceptional 2021 vintage. It opens with intense and elegant notes of violets, cherries in spirit, dried apricot, and subtle hints of pinewood and sandalwood. A quintessential Piemontese character emerges with aromas of high-quality underbrush, mushroom, and truffle, rounded off by a signature touch of incense that has become the hallmark of the winery. On the palate, the wine prevails with an aristocratic combination of power and elegance, with a mouthwatering taste of sour cherry and red berries, a sapid touch and an exceptionally polished tannin, for an incredible overall balance and quality. The pairing I have chosen is a timeless rock classic for a wine that embodies both history and elegance. 100% Nebbiolo. 1bt in Shipment. Drink Through 2025-2032. Open 3h before. Price $45

Tenuta Carretta Barbaresco Cascina Bordino Riserva Docg 2019

Song: The Thrill is Gone by B.B. King.
One of the flagship wines from this historic estate, this Barbaresco Riserva showcases a captivating ruby-red hue with garnet reflections, a hallmark of Nebbiolo. The bouquet is intense and layered, unfolding with notes of withered rose, prune, maraschino cherry, and black currant. A balsamic touch of pine and sage adds freshness, while cocoa and licorice bring depth, finishing with an earthy, luxurious hint of black truffle. On the palate, it is voluminous and succulent, offering a crescendo of flavors—maraschino cherry and currants, mushroom, and scorched earth—leading to a long, lingering finish. The tannins are assertive yet majestic, giving the wine an ‘Old School Blues’ structure, making it the perfect pairing with B.B. King’s music. 100% Nebbiolo. 1bt in shipment. Drink Through 2024-2032. Open 3h before. Price $60

Poderi Sanguineto I e II Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Docg 2021

Song: Mother by Pink Floyd. Dora and Patrizia are pillars of Vino Nobile, and one of my greatest joys is spending time with the two central figures of this enchanting world called Sanguineto, where time is measured by the rhythms of Mother Nature. Here, geese, chickens, cats, and dogs live in harmony, surrounded by a meticulously tended vineyard. Dora's hands bear the weight of decades of hard work, and her slender shoulders carry the legacy of generations of farmers. From them, she inherited not only sharp wit and empirical knowledge but also a deep respect for the land—principles that lie at the heart of Sanguineto. In summary, Sanguineto's wines hold a special place in my heart. Their wines are soulful, expressive, and free from any unnecessary sophistication. It is always a deeply emotional experience, for me, to savor the wines crafted by Dora and Patrizia. A powerful, inebriating Vino Nobile, with notes of black currants, black cherries, plum, potpourri, withered red roses, lavender, and subtle spices of cocoa, leather, and tobacco of the highest quality. On the palate, the generosity of the 2021 vintage shines through. This Vino Nobile is rich and succulent, yet retains the enjoyability and smoothness that define Sanguineto, finishing with a perfectly round tannin of majestic elegance and a lustful aftertaste of blueberry and jasmine tea. A wine that always leaves an indelible mark on my soul, much like one of my favorite albums by Pink Floyd, which offers a perfect pairing for the senses. 80% Sangiovese, 20% Canaiolo & Mammolo . 1bt in Shipment. Drink Through: 2025-2029. Open 3h before. Price $40

Poderi Sanguineto I e II Rosso di Montepulciano Doc 2023

Song: Dancing Barefoot by Patti Smith. This Rosso di Montepulciano, born from the most challenging vintage of the past two decades, is one of the purest expressions of Sanguineto’s style. A still life painting of red fruits, a vibrant Sangiovese with a distinct personality. Surprisingly intense and structured for a 2023, the wine opens with an aromatic burst of red flowers, red currants, raspberries, maraschino, and sour cherries. The palate is lively and joyful, with a seductive freshness of red berries, a solid structure, and creamy tannins, all culminating in a beautifully balanced finish. It’s a special wine that holds a cherished place among my all-time favorites. 80% Sangiovese, 20% Canaiolo & Mammolo . 1bt in Shipment. Drink Through: 2025-2027. Open 1h before. Price $31

Contucci Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Riserva Docg 2019

Song: Kashmir by Led Zeppelin. The history of Montepulciano and Vino Nobile is deeply intertwined with the legacy of this historic family, whose presence in the town is documented as far back as the year 1008 (yes, over a thousand years ago!). Viticulturists and agriculturists since the early Middle Ages, the family owns the iconic Palazzo Contucci, located right in the main square of Montepulciano. The first brick of the palace was laid in 1517 under the guidance of Sangallo the Elder, one of the most renowned architects of the Renaissance. To this day, the cellars of the palace continue to serve as spaces for winemaking and aging, providing a unique and fascinating setting that is both anachronistic and world-famous. A wine of timeless and aristocratic charm, this Riserva embodies both the enduring legacy of the Contucci family and the refined elegance of Vino Nobile. The bouquet reveals notes of red-fleshed fruits, with cherry in spirit and ripe plum at the forefront, followed by withered roses, sage, and rich chocolate. Classic Tuscan nuances of leather, tobacco, and eucalyptus add depth and complexity. On the palate, it makes a striking impression—charismatic and full of energy. The refreshing taste of blackberry jam unfolds seamlessly, supported by perfectly integrated tannins, as if gently sculpted in marble, mirroring the grace and grandeur of Palazzo Contucci itself. Best paired with the hypnotic rhythm and epic arrangement by Led Zeppelin. 80% Sangiovese, 10% Canaiolo, 10% Colorino. 1bt in Shipment . Drink through 2025-2032. Open 3h before. Price $49

Contucci Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Mulinvecchio Docg 2020

Song: I Put a Spell on You by Nina Simone. Mulinvecchio is a 2-acre vineyard that gives rise to the most ‘Blues' of the Contucci wines—a seductive and velvety Sangiovese of extraordinary elegance and intensity. With its deep ruby red hue, the wine offers a bouquet of red roses, maraschino, blackberry candy, and delicate spices of chocolate, tobacco, leather, and tea, along with an intriguing balsamic touch of eucalyptus and sage. On the palate, Mulinvecchio is precise and refined, displaying great elegance and the finesse of a Blues ballad of exceptional quality. It begins fresh, then progresses with a crescendo of red-fleshed fruits and tea, culminating in a round and indulgent tannin of masterful craftsmanship. This wine reveals the gentle side of Vino Nobile, showcasing its true depth and character, best paired with Nina Simone’s iconic and unmistakable voice. 80% Sangiovese, 10% Canaiolo, 10% Colorino. 1bt in Shipment . Drink through 2025-2030. Open 2h before. Price $39

Verbena Brunello di Montalcino Docg 2019

Song: Paradise City by Guns N’ Roses. Verbena, a charming family-run estate managed by Luca Nannetti, upholds the family tradition and proudly stands as one of the ambassadors of boutique wineries in Montalcino. Their solid and structured Brunello di Montalcino is unmatched in terms of value. With a red ruby color with good concentration, the wine presents a voluptuous and intense bouquet of maraschino liqueur, blackberries, lavender, geranium, chocolate, coffe beans, rosemary and tobacco. The palate is expansive, captivating, and full-bodied, beginning with a rich and succulent maraschino note, transitioning to a groovy and firm tannin that grips the back of the lips, and finishing with a lingering essence of black currants and jasmine tea. It's as if a Brunello is playing Hard Rock music. 100% Sangiovese. 1bt in Shipment. Drink Through 2025-2030. Open 3h Before. Price $44

Castello dei Rampolla Chianti Classico Docg 2021

Song: Uprising by Muse. The Castle has been under the ownership of the family since 1739, but it was in 1965 that the Rampolla family transformed the estate into a modern winery. With the guidance of the legendary Italian winemaker Giacomo Tachis, Rampolla became a symbol of modernity and innovation, blending Sangiovese with international varietals. Pioneers of biodynamic farming, the estate transitioned to a more regenerative and sustainable production in 1994, demonstrating a forward-thinking mentality well ahead of its time. This blend of Sangiovese, with a touch of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, presents a modern take on Chianti Classico, boasting an intense ruby red color and aromas of tart cherry, blueberry, withered violets, chocolate, a hint of eucalyptus, and a touch of sweet cinnamon spice. On the palate, the wine reveals the vibrant freshness typical of a classic Chianti, enhanced by the “international” flair of Merlot’s cherry jam and the grippy yet refined tannins of Cabernet Sauvignon, achieving perfect balance and a long, savory finish with a bold, satisfying push. A Rock personality with a contemporary look. 90% Sangiovese, 5% Merlot, 5% Cab Sauvignon. 1bt in Shipment. Drink Through 2025-2030. Open 2h before. Price $35

Castello dei Rampolla Liù Toscana Igt 2021

Song: Wicked Game by Chris Isaac. Liù is a symbol of the contemporary approach embraced by this historic estate, a Merlot with a distinctly Tuscan character. Its intense purple hue leads into a peppery personality, offering an intriguing bouquet of dark cherry, blueberry, red pepper, lavender, incense, and an exotic touch of pink pepper. On the palate, it is vibrant, playful, and refreshingly pleasant, bursting with flavors of black currants and black tea. Rhythmic, luscious and succulent, the wine finishes with a bold, indulgent tannin and a lingering finish, carrying a 'Chianti-like' energy. It’s the perfect fusion of true Tuscan character and French elegance—like a stunning Tuscan woman draped in a stylish Chanel dress. 100% Merlot. 1bt in Shipment. Drink Through 2025-2029. Open 2h before. Price $48

Il Barlettaio Chianti Classico Riserva Docg 2020

Song: Jump by Van Halen. Francesco Bertozzi, whose family has owned the estate since the late 1800s, now runs Il Barlettaio alongside his wife Paola. This small organic estate, located in the heart of Chianti Classico in Radda, produces only around 10,000 bottles per year. As a Rock and Roll enthusiast, I consider Radda the Mecca of Sangiovese, where the wines are vibrant, full of energy, and brimming with life. Francesco and Paola intentionally wait several extra years before releasing their wines, allowing time to tame the bold character of Radda. With a bright ruby-red color, this wine opens with a luminous and vibrant bouquet of orange blossoms, maraschino cherry, candied orange peel, and ripe raspberries. Layers of cocoa, mineral notes of graphite (pencil case), and crushed stones—distinctive of certain areas of Radda—add depth, while Mediterranean hints of sage and thyme bring a touch of spice. On the palate, it delivers an electrifying energy, bursting with incredible freshness and vibrancy. Flavors of currants, raspberries, graphite, and jasmine tea unfold, leading to a grippy tannin that makes the palate hum with its Rock ’n’ Roll intensity. A true Radda thoroughbred, this Chianti Classico offers unique vibrations and synergy, capturing the essence of its remarkable terroir. 100% Sangiovese. 1bt in Shipment. Drink Through 2025-2031. Open 3h before. Price $42

Capezzana Villa di Capezzana Carmignano Docg 2020

Song: Dazed and Confused by Led Zeppelin. Produced by the Contini Bonacossi family since 1926, this wine is a symbol of Carmignano, the region located west of Florence where Cabernet Sauvignon was first planted nearly 500 years ago at the behest of Caterina de’ Medici. Over time, the ‘Uva Francesa’, ancient name of Cabernet, has become a local variety, historically blended with Sangiovese. With a deep ruby red color and purple highlights, the wine showcases the power of the terroir of Carmignano, offering a robust bouquet of blueberries, dark cherries, withered violets, geranium, and spices such as chocolate, cigar tobacco, scorched earth, cloves, and a subtle hint of roasted red pepper typical of Cabernet Sauvignon. The palate is expansive and succulent, with an explosion of blackberries and dark cherries, complemented by grippy yet creamy tannins and a lingering, savory finish that leaves the palate satisfied by its depth. Best paired with rock music, especially the introspective and dark tones of the first album by the greatest rock band of all time. 80% Sangiovese, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon. 1bt in Shipment. Drink Through 2025-2031. Open 2h before. Price $36