{"title":"Wednesday 9\/16: Cult Tuscany Masterclass — Brunello vs Bolgheri","description":"\u003cp\u003eEight Tuscan pours for Wednesday, September 16: Mastrojanni's 2021 Brunellos from the 99-point vintage — Vigna Loreto (WA 97) and the Schiena d'Asino cru — beside cult Cerbaiona's Rosso, Podere Sapaio's Bolgheri Superiore and Volpolo, and Ottella's Le Creete Lugana to open.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"poderesapaio16-w","title":"Podere Sapaio Bolgheri Superiore Sapaio 2019 (Tuscany, Italy) - [WC 97] [WA 95] [WE 95] [JD 94] [JS 94] [FS 93]","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNotes from the Winemaker:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Philosophy…\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePodere Sapaio has an experimental and innovational philosophy: it aims at searching new expressions of Bordeaux grape varieties in the Bolgheri area, with the final goal of producing wines which put together power, elegance and longevity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA New Interpreter of the Bolgheri Area…\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe estate Podere Sapaio was founded in 1999. Its 40 hectares are spread between the Councils of Castagneto Carducci and Bibbona. Grape varieties of Bordeaux origin — Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot — which in the last fifty years have imposed themselves in the area, are grown in lands of quaternary deposits. Other grape varieties are present in small quantities. There are also some hectares of land, which are part of the estate, where Frantoio, Moraiolo and Leccino cultivars of olive trees are grown.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRatings \u0026amp; Reviews\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - WinesCritic.com:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Complex on the nose, with notes of black plums, blackberries, sweet caramel, myrtle, juniper berries and nutmeg. Plenty of violet dominates the secondary scene, blending with nuances of hyacinth and guarana. Full-bodied, with decidedly noble, silky tannins and a finish with a slightly bitter close that will soften with time. Better from 2026.\" -Raffaele Vecchione (Nov 2022)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The 2019 Sapaio is a classic blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Petit Verdot and 10% Cabernet Franc. This wine has gone from being a Bolgheri Superiore to an IGT Toscana because Massimo Piccin now sources a tiny bit of fruit from outside the appellation in Bibbona. These are beautiful results with a full and generous bouquet and highlights of cherry, dried raspberry, cedar, grilled herb and tobacco. This is a terrific vintage with 15,000 bottles on the market. Drinking Window: 2023-2038.\" -Monica Larner (Jul 2022)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Wine Enthusiast:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"A nose that's marvelously chameleon-like, offering first cherries and berries with a sweet but serious vanilla undertone, then tangy, sanguine soil and crushed rocks, then bitter roots and spices. The palate is equally layered, then electrified with heat and acid through a lingering finish.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Jeb Dunnuck:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The current release on the market, the 2019 Sapaio is the same blend as the 2020 and pours a dark ruby\/red hue. Revealing pleasing aromas of graphite, black cherry liqueur, mocha, and baby powder, it's full-bodied on the palate and has ripe but present tannins. With fresh acidity, an iron-rich, sanguine feel, and salinity on the finish, it has a touch more of an angular feel, but it's all well-balanced. I like the structure here more than the 2020. This is a very nice vintage of this wine to drink 2025-2036.\" -Audrey Frick (Jan 2024)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - James Suckling:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Dark cherries, dark plums and dried herbs with some lemon zest. Medium to full body with firm, grainy tannins and tangy acidity. Structured and richly tannined, with a juicy finish. Hard not to drink now.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Falstaff:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Compact, dark ruby red with a shimmering core. Opens gracefully on the nose with notes of dark chocolate, cigar box and blackberry. Spreads quickly across the palate with firm, fine tannins, plenty of drive and lots of dark fruit through to the lingering finish.\"\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"LYRA WINE","offers":[{"title":"750 ml","offer_id":37427897893023,"sku":"4G16PS","price":124.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0481\/8940\/7391\/files\/eiv27gr23af1me4m5f2t.jpg?v=1789405759"},{"product_id":"cerbaionarossovdt-w","title":"Cerbaiona Rosso VDT (Tuscany, Italy) - [WA 93]","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAbout the Wine:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe non vintage Cerbaiona Rosso VDT is built around declassified lots of their $200+ Brunello di Montalcino and other Tuscan grapes. Because it doesn’t spend the required time aging before release, the fruit is brighter and more lively than you would expect from a Brunello. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe blend includes 2017 and 2018 vintages and is made of 90% Sangiovese heightened with 10% Pinot Nero, which adds another dimension of lush and supple fruit.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRatings \u0026amp; Reviews\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003e93 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The Cerbaiona NV Rosso V.D.T. is a real beauty. This mysterious blend of what appears to be about 90% Sangiovese and 10% Pinot Nero (with no vintage declared on the label) opens to a sultry, dark appearance with some deep ruby shine that shows from within. The bouquet has elements that remind me of a classic Tuscan Sangiovese (made in a hands-off and transparent manner) on the one hand, and fragrant, blue flower elements that do in fact recall a distant Pinot Nero on the other. It also has some carbonic-adjacent aromas and a whole lot of freshness, with mint and medicinal herb. Dusty earthenware or baked terracotta also appear. The wine is certainly beautiful, and I'm excited to recommend it.\" - Monica Larner\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"LYRA WINE","offers":[{"title":"750 mL","offer_id":37461463236767,"sku":"4GNVCROS","price":29.97,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0481\/8940\/7391\/products\/CerbaionaRossoVdTNV_800xcopy.png?v=1648485297"},{"product_id":"podere-sapaio-bolgheri-volpolo-2018-tuscany-italy","title":"Podere Sapaio \"Bolgheri Volpolo\" 2023 (Tuscany, Italy) - [LM 95] [JS 94] [WA 94] [JD 94] [FS 92] [WS 92]","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Winery:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBolgheri, 1999.  Here our passion for wine led to Podere Sapaio, a 40-hectare farming estate gently stretching between Castagneto Carducci and Bibbona.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOur plats of land extend over quaternary and flood deposits and consist of coarse sandy beds and draining calcareous soils.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHere we grow our vines, above all of Bordeaux origin, which have become a reference in the area over the past 50 years, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot.  Some hectares have been dedicated to olive groves, in the varieties Fratoiano, Moraiolo, and Leccino.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Wine:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA Bolgheri Rosso DOC since 2004.  14 months in barrique barrels and 6 months in bottles.  Like Sapaio, the name exalts the local origin of this wine by expressing respect for the vine Volpola.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVolpolo is an opulent Super Tuscan-style wine primarily composed of Cabernet Sauvignon along with a smaller quantity of Merlot and Petit Verdot. Succulent plum and dark berries dominate on the nose along with hints of warm winter spice and toast from the 14 months of ageing in French oak barrels. On the palate there is a generous full body complemented by ripe, smooth tannins and a powerful structure. A great wine to serve with hearty red meat dishes or to keep in the cellar for a few more years.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVarietal Composion: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 15% Petit Verdot\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRatings \u0026amp; Reviews\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Luca Maroni:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Bolgheri at its densest and purest blackberry and violet stage in the glass of Podere Sapaio. A fleshy and tannic, yet softly harmonious Volpolo 2023, a Sapaio 2021, as always, of supreme and inviolate density, of harmonious soft-tannic suppleness, of an unoxidized, vanilla-like olfactory brilliance. Hats off.\" -Luca Maroni\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - James Suckling:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Firm and structured, yet with a lush and velvety flow. Aromas of succulent fruit layered with spices, cedar and walnuts. Full and broad on the palate, with a tightly framed, lingering finish. Chewy and long. From organically grown grapes. Try from 2027.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"A blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot and 15% Petit Verdot, the organic Podere Sapaio 2023 Bolgheri Volpolo di Sapaio is a charming wine with generous layers of fruit, offering precise notes of blackcurrant and sweet plum. Oak is gently interwoven into the elegantly rich mouthfeel, adding polish without overshadowing the fruit. Fermented in stainless steel and moved into barrique for 14 months of élevage, the 2023 combines freshness and vitality. With 85,000 bottles produced, Volpolo remains a widely available and consistently expressive introduction to the Sapaio style. Drinking Window: 2026-2038.\" -Monica Larner (Feb 2026)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Jeb Dunnuck:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The 2023 Volpolo di Sapaio, a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, and 15% Petit Verdot, pours a deep purple hue and is immediately appealing, with aromas of blackberry, fresh plum, lavender, and Mediterranean herbs. Full-bodied, it has a creamy, polished texture balanced by fresh acidity and underlying mineral notes. Despite the challenges of the vintage, it's harmonious and expressive, with both early appeal and the structure to age. Drink 2026-2036.\" -Audrey Frick (May 2026)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - Falstaff:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Rich, dense ruby purple colour. Intense and clear nose with ripe blackberries, followed by cocoa, some forest floor and leather. Very juicy fruit on the palate, well-integrated, sweetish tannins. Retronasal with preserved plums. Elegant, fruit-accentuated finish.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - Wine Spectator:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"This is stylish and elegant, sporting black currant, blackberry, earth, licorice and spice flavors. Firms up on the finish yet stays long and balanced overall. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2033.\"\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"LYRA WINE","offers":[{"title":"750 ml","offer_id":40611625664671,"sku":"4G18PSVP","price":39.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0481\/8940\/7391\/products\/SapaioVolpolo2018.png?v=1627761421"},{"product_id":"ottella-le-creete-lugana-doc-2022-veneto-italy-js-91","title":"Ottella \"Le Creete\" Lugana DOC 2025 (Veneto, Italy)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE WINE:\u003c\/strong\u003e  The grapes come from the “Le Creete” vineyard which is quite old, around 30 – 40 years old, where the soil has a high content of white clay. This characteristic gives to the wine a unique elegance and minerality. In Veronese dialect “creete” in Italan means “creta” which is clay.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTASTING NOTES:  \u003c\/strong\u003eWarm, golden, intense straw-yellow colour.  Exotic hints of pineapple and grapefruit with a savory trace.  On the palate, the dominate fleshy texture is full bodied \u0026amp; persistent with good minerality.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFOOD PAIRINGS:  \u003c\/strong\u003eMarine and fresh water fish emphasize the features of the wine.  It goes very well with first courses of octopus, pasta or rice, it also provides pleasurable sensations when consumed with strongly flavoured or seasoned cheeses.   \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eVINEYARD \u0026amp; WINEMAKING INFO\u003c\/span\u003e:\u003cbr\u003eGrape Varietal: \u003c\/strong\u003e100% Turbiano (clonal type of Trebbiano di Lugana)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAging: \u003c\/strong\u003eIn stainless steel tanks, where the wine rests on its fine lees for 6 to 8 months.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVineyard Location:\u003c\/strong\u003e Peschiera del Garda (VR)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVineyard Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 8 Ha\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGreen Status:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sustainable\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil Composition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Limestone, Clay (mostly White Clay) \u0026amp; Fossils\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTraining Method:\u003c\/strong\u003e Double bow Guyot\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElevation:\u003c\/strong\u003e 75\/masl\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVines\/hectare:\u003c\/strong\u003e 4,000 - 4,500\/Ha\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExposure:\u003c\/strong\u003e South\/Southeast\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVine Age:\u003c\/strong\u003e 30 - 40 years\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHarvest Time:\u003c\/strong\u003e End of September \/ October\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFirst Vintage:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1960\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction:\u003c\/strong\u003e 80,000 bottles\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRatings \u0026amp; Reviews\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - Wine Enthusiast (2024):\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMango, pineapple, and tart grapefruit swirl together with a soft lift of jasmine, giving the wine a sun-soaked yet focused aromas. The texture is plump and mouth-filling; key lime colliding with pineapple cream pie, all wrapped in citrusy tension. A zesty finish keeps it tight and fresh on the salty finish.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Decanter (2024):\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis single-vineyard Lugana is from a plot of the estate's oldest vines with a high concentration of clay in the soil. It's vinified in 90% stainless steel and 10% concrete for a succulent and textural wine of balanced proportions. The citrussy, floral and herbal aromas are quite restrained, but in the mouth it bursts forth with papaya, lemon zest and pink grapefruit, ending with a saline, flinty flourish. Very refreshing.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"LYRA WINE","offers":[{"title":"750 ml","offer_id":44495124955295,"sku":"","price":27.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0481\/8940\/7391\/files\/le-creete-304x640_9897a8dd-b8e7-490c-8e09-5de500e956e9.png?v=1789404970"},{"product_id":"mastrojanni-brunello-di-montalcino-2021-tuscany-italy-xx","title":"Mastrojanni Brunello di Montalcino 2021 (Tuscany, Italy) - [JD 95] [WA 95] [JS 95] [WS 93] [DM 93] [VM 93]","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Winery:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMastrojanni lies in Castelnuovo dell’Abate, in the south easternmost corner of Montalcino. This is an area with a strong winemaking tradition and the homeland of Brunello. The inactive Mount Amiata lends great character to the Sangiovese growing in this estate, as the soils are rich in gravel, clay, limestone and sandstone. The estate, founded in 1975, stretches over 90 hectares, 25 of which for vines, 14 for Brunello, with vineyards from 8 to 41 years old. The altitude of the vineyards varies from 620 to 1340 feet high. The Illy family (of the famed coffee house) bought the property in 2008 and brought in famed consulting enologist Maurizio Castelli.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt Mastrojanni, production is based on non-invasive practices and herbicides have never been used. In addition, since November 2022, no chemical products have been applied.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout this Wine:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe grapes, hand-harvested and carefully selected, are gently pressed and transferred into brushed and resined concrete vats for gravity flow. maceration: on the skins for a minimum of 25 days. Aged 36 months in Allier, Vosges, Slavonia, Black Forest and Styria oak barrels (16-54 hl), followed by at least 6 months in bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRatings \u0026amp; Reviews\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e95 Points - Jeb Dunnuck:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\"A medium red hue introduces the 2021 Brunello Di Montalcino, which opens with toasted cedar, licorice, red cherries, pressed flowers, rosemary, and polished leather. The palate is medium-bodied and zesty, with pure, ripe red fruit, ripe tannins, and refreshing acidity that keeps it energetic and focused through the finish. It should drink at its best over the next 15-20 years. Drink 2026-2046.\" - Audrey Frick (Feb 2026)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Wine Advocate: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Complex and shapely, the Mastrojanni 2021 Brunello di Montalcino shows fluid contours that evolve with each swirl of the glass before settling into notes of cassis, dark cherry, spice, grenadine and grilled watermelon. The palate carries energy and brightness over a medium-to full-bodied frame, finishing with a subtle mineral saltiness that adds lift and definition. This classic village expression draws fruit from 14.4 hectares across varied soils, exposures and elevations, resulting in a balanced and expressive wine that remains very much in evolution.\" – Monica Larner (Jan 2026)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - James Suckling: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Aromas of black cherries, orange peel and crushed stones, Medium-bodied with juicy fruit and a flavorful finish. There’s almost a sandy, terra cotta character in the finish. Lovely balance. Drink or hold.\" (Dec 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Wine Spectator: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Black cherry, plum, earth, iron and wild herb flavors mark this supple red. Balanced and long on the finish, with refined tannins and a light, tactile feel. This feels approachable now yet should improve over the next two to three years. Best from 2027 through 2040.\" – Bruce Sanderson (Jun 2026)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Decanter Magazine: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Intense balsamic aromas of sage and mint dusted with cocoa lead. The palate is smooth, polished and sleek without lacking structure. Those sandy tannins feel expertly placed. Sweet herbs and sun-baked stone accent the luxuriant red berries. Long in satisfying flavours and harmonious in all its elements but worth waiting another year. Among recent changes – like Francesco Illy buying out his siblings and converting to organic and biodynamic viticulture – Mastrojanni has a new winemaker as of 2022. The young Giulia Härri, who also oversees production at her family estate Claudia Ferrero, took charge when this was already in barrel.\" – Michaela Morris (Nov 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Vinous Media: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"The 2021 Brunello di Montalcino smolders up from the glass with a burst of crushed ashen stone and sage, giving way to mulling spice and dried black cherries. It envelops the palate with silken textures and masses of ripe dark red fruits, soothing, polished and balanced in feel. Edgy tannins mingle with a subtle citrus twang as rosy inner florals resonate through the dramatically long, youthfully structured finale. The balance here is beyond reproach. Mastrojanni blended in the juice from the Vigna Schiena d'Asino to bolster this bottling.\" – Eric Guido (Nov 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"LYRA WINE","offers":[{"title":"750 mL","offer_id":53590909321581,"sku":null,"price":84.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0481\/8940\/7391\/files\/mastrobrun.png?v=1784809001"},{"product_id":"mastrojanni-vigna-loreto-brunello-di-montalcino-2021-tuscany-italy-xx","title":"Mastrojanni \"Vigna Loreto\" Brunello di Montalcino 2021 (Tuscany, Italy) - [WA 97] [JD 96] [WS 96] [JS 95] [VM 94] [DM 94]","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Winery:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMastrojanni lies in Castelnuovo dell’Abate, in the south easternmost corner of Montalcino. This is an area with a strong winemaking tradition and the homeland of Brunello. The inactive Mount Amiata lends great character to the Sangiovese growing in this estate, as the soils are rich in gravel, clay, limestone and sandstone. The estate, founded in 1975, stretches over 90 hectares, 25 of which for vines, 14 for Brunello, with vineyards from 8 to 41 years old. The altitude of the vineyards varies from 620 to 1340 feet high. The Illy family (of the famed coffee house) bought the property in 2008 and brought in famed consulting enologist Maurizio Castelli.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt Mastrojanni, production is based on non-invasive practices and herbicides have never been used. In addition, since November 2022, no chemical products have been applied.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout this Wine:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe grapes, hand-harvested and carefully selected, are gently pressed and transferred into wooden vats for fermentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaceration: 23 days on the skins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAging: 42 months in Allier oak barrels (16-29 hl) followed by at least 12 months in bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRatings \u0026amp; Reviews\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e97 Points - Wine Advocate:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\"Beautifully contoured and immediately expressive, the Mastrojanni 2021 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Loreto brings together dark fruit, spice, minerality, Sangiovese sweetness and firm, well-shaped tannins. The wine is aromatic and accessible in its youth yet structured enough to reward additional aging, reflecting the site’s tendency toward openness and floral lift rather than sheer power. The vineyard measures 1.59 hectares at roughly 350 meters in elevation with southeastern exposures, planted on complex lacustrine soils composed of lignitic clays, sandstone, sand and conglomerates.\" – Monica Larner (Jan 2026)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - Jeb Dunnuck:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\"Displaying a youthful red\/garnet hue, the 2021 Brunello Di Montalcino Vigna Loreto is attractive on opening, with baked strawberries, mint, crushed roses, and fresh leather. The palate is medium-bodied and plush, with refreshing acidity, balanced length, and a graceful, tapering finish that closes with tangerine. It’s a lovely single-vineyard Brunello to drink over the coming 15-20 years. Drink 2026-2046.\" - Audrey Frick (Feb 2026)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - Wine Spectator: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"This red is packed with cherry, blackberry and blueberry fruit wrapped in an embrace of toasty oak. Tar, iron and eucalyptus flavors lend complexity, while a broad swath of dusty tannins provides support. Just needs time for the kernel of pure fruit to emerge. Best from 2030 through 2050.\" – Bruce Sanderson (Jun 2026)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - James Suckling:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\"Dark cherries and cedar with undertones of fresh mushroom undertones come through clearly on the nose. Full body and big, chewy tannins with plenty of wood, but it softens with air. Tangy at the end. A little old-school. Try after 2028.\" (Dec 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Vinous Media:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\"The 2021 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Loreto is wonderfully unique, enticing with a minty freshness that gives way to spiced citrus, blackberries and rubbed sage. It is soothingly round and soft textured, with a sensation of liquid stone and cooling acidity guiding its ripe wild berry fruits. The wine leaves a web of fine tannins and tart berry concentration while tapering off long with a slight citrus twang. In 2021, Vigna Loreto is more built on energy than power.\" – Eric Guido (Nov 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Decanter Magazine:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\"One of 37 plots, the Loreto vineyard is defined by a southeastern exposure, a mid-slope altitude averaging 350m and predominantly sandstone and pebbly soil. With a pronounced balsamic character and sophisticated presentation, there is a distinct family resemblance with Mastrojanni’s classic Brunello; this is perhaps more detailed, linear and savoury. Iron, tobacco and dusty herbs are amply packed into the dark brambly core. Taut tannins come together with excellent composure, injecting a dimension of textural drama. It should unfold gracefully over the next 15 years.\" – Michaela Morris (Nov 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"LYRA WINE","offers":[{"title":"750 mL","offer_id":53590915744109,"sku":null,"price":159.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0481\/8940\/7391\/files\/loreto.png?v=1784809077"},{"product_id":"mastrojanni-vigna-schiena-dasino-brunello-di-montalcino-2020-tuscany-italy-xx","title":"Mastrojanni \"Vigna Schiena d'Asino\" Brunello di Montalcino 2020 (Tuscany, Italy) - [VM 96] [WS 96] [JS 96] [WA 95] [DM 95]","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Winery:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMastrojanni lies in Castelnuovo dell’Abate, in the south easternmost corner of Montalcino. This is an area with a strong winemaking tradition and the homeland of Brunello. The inactive Mount Amiata lends great character to the Sangiovese growing in this estate, as the soils are rich in gravel, clay, limestone and sandstone. The estate, founded in 1975, stretches over 90 hectares, 25 of which for vines, 14 for Brunello, with vineyards from 8 to 41 years old. The altitude of the vineyards varies from 620 to 1340 feet high. The Illy family (of the famed coffee house) bought the property in 2008 and brought in famed consulting enologist Maurizio Castelli.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt Mastrojanni, production is based on non-invasive practices and herbicides have never been used. In addition, since November 2022, no chemical products have been applied.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout this Wine:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe grapes, hand-harvested and carefully selected, are gently pressed and transferred into wooden vats for fermentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaceration: \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e30 days on the skins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAging: \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e42 months in Allier oak barrels (16-29 hl) followed by at least 12 months in bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRatings \u0026amp; Reviews\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e96 Points - Vinous Media:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\"The classy 2020 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Schiena d'Asino is coy and understated in the glass, showing delicate hints of dusty rose, stone dust and dried strawberry. Further swirling brings about notes of clove and spiced orange. It possesses silken textures that are seamless and creamy in feel, with polished red berry fruits complemented by sweet herbal tones and a tinge of citrus. The 2020 finishes with dramatic length, staining and classically structured, tugging at the cheeks with fine tannins as nuances of licorice fade under an air of violet inner florals.\" – Eric Guido (Nov 2024)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - Wine Spectator:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\"A sapid, salty version, featuring bright cherry, raspberry, plum, iron, earth and tobacco aromas and flavors. Complex and beautifully balanced, with superb length and energy on the resonant finish. Its tannins are present and well-wrought and provide the support for this to age. Best from 2028 through 2045. 512 cases made, 170 cases imported.\" – Bruce Sanderson (Jun 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - James Suckling:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\"Youthful, estery notes dominate the very first sniff, but the wine then opens to reveal a complex,layered profile of schist minerality, smoky woodland and licorice, fresh raspberries and a touch of pepper. Full-bodied with condensed, velvety tannins and almost zesty acidity. A core of riper fruit here, yet in a refined context with pleasant extraction on the finish. Try after 2025.\" – Aldo Fiordelli (Sep 2024)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Wine Advocate:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\"Produced like a Riserva, the Mastrojanni 2020 Brunello di Montalcino Vigna Schiena d'Asino (in the bottle with the black wax seal) shows a savory, quietly authoritative profile with dark fruit, firm structure and a subtle note of espresso bean that remains refined rather than dominant. The palate finishes with simple sweet fruit framed by deeper tannins and a firmer mineral backbone. The vineyard sits on the upper ridge at 385 meters in elevation, higher than Vigna Loreto, and the wine’s 15% alcohol underscores its power and concentration. Production totals 6,100 bottles.\" – Monica Larner (Jan 2026)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Decanter Magazine:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\"Oak top notes of mocha and dill cede to petrichor, liquorice root, eucalyptus and fennel. Ample and round upfront, though a sturdy structure catches up. Bright acidity gives definition to the dense layers of blackberry and dark currants, then chalky, saline minerals surge as it draws to the close. Referencing the humpbacked shape of the vineyard from which this hails, Schiena d'Asino is Mastrojanni’s top bottling – it spends longer in wood to refine its tannins. While not labeled as a Riserva, this is released a year later than its stablemate Brunellos.\" – Michaela Morris (Nov 2025)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"LYRA WINE","offers":[{"title":"750 mL","offer_id":53590921904493,"sku":null,"price":244.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0481\/8940\/7391\/files\/asino.png?v=1784809267"},{"product_id":"mastrojanni-rosso-di-montalcino-2024-tuscany-italy-xx","title":"Mastrojanni Rosso di Montalcino 2024 (Tuscany, Italy) - [JD 90] [JS 90]","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Winery:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMastrojanni lies in Castelnuovo dell’Abate, in the south easternmost corner of Montalcino. This is an area with a strong winemaking tradition and the homeland of Brunello. The inactive Mount Amiata lends great character to the Sangiovese growing in this estate, as the soils are rich in gravel, clay, limestone and sandstone. The estate, founded in 1975, stretches over 90 hectares, 25 of which for vines, 14 for Brunello, with vineyards from 8 to 41 years old. The altitude of the vineyards varies from 620 to 1340 feet high. The Illy family (of the famed coffee house) bought the property in 2008 and brought in famed consulting enologist Maurizio Castelli.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt Mastrojanni, production is based on non-invasive practices and herbicides have never been used. In addition, since November 2022, no chemical products have been applied.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout this Wine:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe grapes are selected on a sorting table based on quality, destemmed, crushed, and gravity-fed into rough, resin-lined concrete vats. The grapes remained on the skins for 15 days.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAging: 6 months in Allier oak barrels  6 months in concrete vats. At least 4 months in bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRatings \u0026amp; Reviews\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e90 Points - Jeb Dunnuck:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\"Pouring a slightly deeper ruby hue compared to the 2023 at this early stage, the 2024 Rosso Di Montalcino is fruit-forward on the nose, with mixed berries, pressed flowers, and fresh earth. The palate is medium-bodied and rounded, with a bit more flesh and an open-knit feel compared to the more vertical 2023, while still retaining refreshing acidity and fine tannins. It’s an attractive Rosso that should drink well over the next several years. Drink 2026-2030.\" – Audrey Frick (Feb 2026)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e90 Points - James Suckling:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Vivid red fruit, dried herbs and some earthy complexity on the nose. Medium-bodied, juicy and polished, with good flavors but a slightly fluid feel toward the fruity finish. Drink now.\" (Jun 2026)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"LYRA WINE","offers":[{"title":"750 mL","offer_id":53590929342829,"sku":null,"price":39.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0481\/8940\/7391\/files\/mastroross.png?v=1784809519"}],"url":"https:\/\/artisan.wine\/collections\/wednesday-9-16-cult-tuscany-masterclass-brunello-vs-bolgheri.oembed","provider":"Artisan W\u0026S","version":"1.0","type":"link"}