2009 Château Léoville Barton
A commanding Left Bank classic from a superb vintage, the 2009 Léoville Barton combines deep Médoc structure with sensual ripeness. The bouquet shows layered complexity—blackcurrant, cigar box, cedar and graphite—lifted by hints of violets and crushed stone. The palate is powerful yet impeccably balanced, its Cabernet core framed by velvety tannins and a long, aristocratic finish. Still youthful but entering a beautiful drinking window, it delivers everything one expects from a top second growth without ostentation. Corked Points: 96
2018 Rocca di Montegrossi “Geremia” – Chianti Classico (Monti in Chianti)
Geremia is one of Tuscany’s most compelling Bordeaux blends, and the 2018 vintage is a study in depth and precision. Dark cherry, wild berries and tobacco emerge first, followed by rosemary, cocoa and warm stone. The Merlot brings silky texture while the Cabernet Sauvignon drives structure and length. Rich yet vibrant, it walks with quiet confidence, avoiding the heaviness that sometimes marks the category. A wine of character, earth and tension from the limestone slopes of Monti. Corked Points: 94
2019 Il Pino di Biserno – Tuscany
The 2019 Il Pino shows Biserno’s signature polish but anchors it with more savory detail than previous vintages. The nose blends black plum, cherry liqueur and wild herbs with a graphite edge and refined oak spice. Plush in texture yet disciplined in structure, it unfolds gradually across the palate, finishing long with notes of bay leaf, cocoa and sea breeze salinity. Modern in spirit but true to place, it’s already rewarding but has the backbone to evolve. Corked Points: 94
2020 Uvaggio – Proprietà Sperino (Lessona, Alto Piemonte)
A pure and graceful Alto Piemonte red, the 2020 Uvaggio captures Nebbiolo’s alpine voice—high-toned, mineral, and quietly expressive. Aromas of sour cherry, rosehip and blood orange meet iron filings and mountain herbs. The palate is lithe and transparent, carried by fresh acidity and fine-grained tannins that reflect the region’s sandy volcanic soils. A wine of honesty and delicacy, more about nuance than weight, and a beautiful introduction to the refined side of northern Piedmont. Corked Points: 91
Sommeliers diary #42
