Acclaim

The 2016 Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Ursonia has a bit of an exotic flair, as spiced orange gives way to crushed blackberries complemented by a hint of sweet vanilla cream. This is velvety in texture yet not weighty, as brisk acids add vibrancy, and a pure display of ripe wild berries and cooling herbal tones soothe the palate. Tension builds through a combination of grippy wood tannins and tart black fruits, while this tapers off youthfully poised and structured. This fine effort needs a couple of years to integrate its lingering presence of oak.” – Eric Guido, Vinous, Apr. 2021

The 2013 Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Ursonia is on a wonderful path of evolution with a seductive display of crushed blackberries, blueberries, brown spices, hints of cacao and tobacco. It’s soft and enveloping, complemented by juicy acidity with a sweet-and-sour display of wild berries and salty mineral tones. Adolescent tannin and hints of tart citrus tug at the senses, leaving hints of sous-bois linger long. I wouldn’t cellar the 2013 for much longer, as it’s starting to show a bit of its maturity. That said, it’s drinking nicely and should continue to do so over the next three or four years.  – Eric Guido, Vinous, Apr. 2021

The 2020 Pecorino wafts up with dusty florals, zests of lime and sweet melon, creating a spicy display of contrasts. It’s silky and round, almost oily in texture with ripe orchard fruits, gaining traction toward the close as saline-minerality comes forward. Then it tapers off long with sweet herbs and hints of candied citrus lingering. – Eric Guido, Vinous, Apr. 2021

EDITORS” CHOICE    Fragrant and supple, this young red has enticing aromas of wild dark-skinned berry, blue flower and dark spice. It’s vibrant, savory and easy-drinking, doling out juicy Marasca cherry, raspberry and baking spice set against lithe tannins. It’s made to be enjoyed young so drink soon.” – Kerin O’Keefe, Wine Enthusiast, Apr. 2021

Menthol, ripe blackskinned berry, iris and oak-driven spice aromas take shape in the glass. The full-bodied, elegantly structured palate showcases ripe Morello cherry, orange zest and licorice before closing on a note of roasted coffee bean. Tightly knit, fine-grained tannins provide firm support while surprisingly fresh acidity for the hot vintage keeps it balanced. Drink 2023–2029. Empson USA Ltd.  -Kerin O’Keefe, Wine Enthusiast, Apr. 2021

Polished and savory, this medium-bodied red opens with aromas of camphor, wild berry and new leather. On the linear palate, taut tannins accompany juicy Marasca cherry and licorice. Drink through 2025.  – Kerin O’Keefe, Wine Enthusiast, Apr. 2021

Spicy aromas of white pepper and star anise mingle with camphor and blue flower. Savory and balanced, the taut palate has finesse and surprising freshness for the vintage, showcasing Marasca cherry, raspberry compote, espresso and licorice. Taut, velvety tannins provide polished support. Drink though 2027. Empson USA Ltd” -Kerin O’Keefe, Wine Enthusiast, Apr. 2021

A blend of 80% Sangiovese, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Merlot, this has heady aromas of cassis, spice, menthol and rose. Elegantly structured and savory, the taut, enveloping palate features ripe Marasca cherry, licorice and espresso set against polished, fine-grained tannins. Drink through 2027. Empson USA Ltd  -Kerin O’Keefe, Wine Enthusiast, Apr. 2021

Subtle aromas of dark-skinned berry, star anise and a whiff of leather form the nose on this blend of Sangiovese and 10% Colorino. Medium bodied and rather austere, the linear palate features dried Marasca cherry, white pepper and ground clove alongside taut, fine-grained tannins. Drink 2022–2027.” – Kerin O’Keefe, Wine Enthusiast, Apr. 2021

Underbrush, eucalyptus, rhubarb and ripe berry form the nose on this 100% Pinot Nero. Elegantly structured and focused, the linear palate features spiced cranberry, pomegranate, star anise and a dollop of vanilla alongside polished tannins. Fresh acidity keeps it balanced. Drink through 2026. Empson USA Ltd.   -Kerin O’Keefe, Wine Enthusiast, Apr. 2021