On the nose, aromas of daffodils, lime and freshly sliced green apple swirl together to create a sweet, floral crispness, floral crispness, which persists on the palate even in the face of a potent salinity and searing acid.

Two years on from the departure of former owners Luca Currado and Elena Penna, Vietti’s wines continue to honour their legacy. The only patent change is the removal of ‘Castiglione’ from the label of the estate’s classic Barolo. The construct remains the same, however: a multi-MGA, vintage-specific blend demonstrating the purity and precision found across the range. Gorgeously perfumed with rose, violet, black raspberry, liquorice and forest undergrowth among its many nuances, it boasts just the right amount of tightness, well measured density and a sophisticated chalky grip.

A damp, cool stoniness defines the nose, which has aromas of blackberries, soil, herbs, crushed rock and pepper. The palate is peppery and earthy, but continuing notes of tart berries provide a cooling balance, creating a delightfully unexpected expression of Montepulciano d'Abruzzo.

The bouquet of the 2024 Vecchia Modena Premium is defined by dusty rose and crushed blackberries. It floods the palate with masses of finely etched bubbles and tart red and blue fruits. A subtle tinge of clove beneath violet inner florals lingers, finishing with lovely length and balance.

This is the top-end Garganega from the talented Inama family. It included the words "Grande Cuvée" in its name until the previous vintage made. The 2022 Soave Classico Foscarino I Palchi is a beautiful wine with a tight vein of crispness and lemony tartness that follows the wine from start to finish, giving it firmness and lasting staying power. There is ample textural fiber at the back, more than enough to make this wine feel important and multidimensional. This 17-hectare vineyard sits in basalt lava soils. The wine is partially fermented in oak (with 30% neutral and new barrique and 50% botte grande) and 20% in stainless steel.

JAMES SUCKLING TOP 100 ITALY 2025 - # 57 

Aromas of black cherries, bark, black truffle, ink, and lead pencil follow through to a full body with perfectly integrated tannins that are caressing yet impressive and add intensity and focus to the wine. The silky tannins caress every inch of your palate. Savory finish. Drink or hold.

Crushed blackberry, sage, citrus zest and stone dust aromas create an enticing bouquet as the expressive 2022 Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Docheio blossoms in the glass. This is juicy to the core, with sweet liquid lavender tones and masses of ripe black cherry that flow across a stream of tantalizing acidity. It leaves a gentle concentration of primary fruit and violet inner florals that linger on and on. The amphora-aged 2022 Docheio is a pure and fresh Montepulciano that will win a lot of hearts.