Andrea Shapiro scored this wine: 95/100

What a profound wine big love for this complex, layered southern Italy wine - this one is from Lecce in the Salento region. It is a Negroamaro blended with a small amount of Malvasia Nera. Medium garnet colour. Mostly dried fruits of prunes, figs, tobacco, leather, dust and salty earth, dried fruit roll up and chutney notes. Body Full with M Tannins, medium plus acidity and a full flavoured finish. Pair with barbecued meats, salted pork dishes and portobello grilled mushrooms.

Andrea Shapiro scored this wine: 95/100

An exquisite Argentinian 70/30 blend of Malbec/Cab Franc. Iscay means two, and here there is a duo of two different varietals, identities, ripening styles and cultures. Both marry well together creating this harmonious fusion. Deep purple-red in colour with aromas of plums, strawberry, blackberry, dried bay leaves, violet and a small note of eucalyptus stem. In the mouth, lots of light skinned plum, raspberry and dark cherry. Additionally, roasted red peppers really shine through with a developing heat spiciness. Dry with M+ body, tannin and finish with ripe strawberry and hints of herbs persisting. A European old world style. A delicious and refined, unfiltered blend. Incredibly good to drink now or further cellaring. Pair with spicy sausage, salami, charcuterie, duck and grilled vegetable dishes.

Andrea Shapiro scored this wine: 95/100

Currently available in the October 2017 vintages release this one is a 10 year old Barolo Riserva. Beautiful medium garnet color. On the nose - strawberry, raspberry, leather, tobacco, graphite, mushroom and a funky chemical note out at the end. Flavours of tart bing cherry, dried cranberry, chutney and earthy mushroomy forest floor. Incredibly delicate and refined. High acidity and tannins with medium plus body and finish, echoing some dried fruit and leafy consummated components. Velvety and vivacious. A “reflection” wine, perfect to pair with a cigar, conversation and one’s thoughts. Food accompaniments include, dark bitter chocolate and fruit, or medium cheeses. 95 points. Tasted with Fontanafredda brand ambassador, Alberto Frea - October 2017

Andrea Shapiro scored this wine: 94/100

Delicious and decadent, Antinori Pian Delle Vigne Brunello Di Montalcino really delivers. Made from 100% Sangiovese. Medium garnet brick colour. Medium intensity aromas of dried, and stewed fruit, chocolate covered cherries, dried black cherries, and maple syrup elements of richness on the nose. Flavours are broad, full and complex. Baked cherries, dark chocolate, grilled red peppers, cola and tootsie rolls! This balances elegantly with medium plus acidity, body, tannins and a lengthy finish. Well rounded, robust and refined. Enjoy with coconut shrimp curry or roasted rosemary leg of lamb and sauteed mushrooms. 94 points tasted October 2017

Andrea Shapiro scored this wine: 94/100

Used as part of the Master of Wine education set as an example of what a typical Argentinian Malbec is. Unique terroir, 1300 meters above sea level the soil is saturated with calcium carbonate, so these plants produce a lot of polyphenol components which give this unique Malbec its bevy of bright aromas and flavours. Deep opaque purple colour revealing notes of plum, cherry, cassis, and a hint of black steeped tea and cigar box. Flavours encompass rich, ripe full strawberry, dried fruit, prune, pepper and leather. Full bodied with rich full tannins. Unique and ever evolving. Long and full finish with an element of salinity and nutmeg persisting, accenting the fabulous forward fruit. A great example of the terroir of this region.