When most think of Italy’s finest wines, the rockstar Super Tuscans likely come to mind, with their powerful red blends that have reshaped Italian winemaking.
Yet Italy’s top wines extend far beyond these celebrity labels. While some Super Tuscans do indeed rank among the nation’s best, a refreshing variety of wines, each rooted in tradition and terroir, consistently earn high praise without requiring a hefty investment.
Below, Wine-Searcher highlights ten wines recognized by critics for their excellence, representing both the affordable and high-end range.
1. Il Marroneto Madonna delle Grazie – Montalcino’s Pure Sangiovese
- Score: 95 points
- Average Price: USD 342
At the top of the list is Il Marroneto’s Madonna delle Grazie, a wine that embodies the elegance and authenticity of Montalcino's Sangiovese. Founded in 1974 by Giuseppe Mori, Il Marroneto’s philosophy focuses on traditional winemaking, aging in large Slavonian oak casks rather than the modern barriques. The 2019 vintage of this Brunello di Montalcino showcases layers of black plum, blackberry, and exotic spices like sandalwood, patchouli, and hibiscus. With a price of USD 342, it remains accessible compared to some other Brunellos.
2. Masseto Toscana IGT – The Super Tuscan Heavyweight
- Score: 96 points
- Average Price: USD 1026
This single-vineyard Merlot from Bolgheri has captivated the wine world with its depth and complexity. Masseto’s rich structure and layers of black cherry, blackberry, vanilla, and toasted coconut have made it an icon. Although it now averages over USD 1,000 per bottle, its quality is undeniably world-class, frequently earning it scores in the high 90s.
3. Marchesi Antinori Solaia Toscana IGT – The Bordeaux Blend with Tuscan Flair
- Score: 95 points
- Average Price: USD 393
The Antinori family's Solaia is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Sangiovese, showcasing both Tuscan tradition and Bordeaux elegance. Priced at USD 393, it provides a more accessible Super Tuscan option. The 2020 vintage reveals a fragrant nose of blackberry, cassis, and mint, with a structured, refined finish that has won over critics.
4. Fontodi Flaccianello della Pieve – Chianti Classico’s 100% Sangiovese
- Score: 95 points
- Average Price: USD 174
From Tuscany’s Chianti Classico, Fontodi’s Flaccianello is a 100% Sangiovese Super Tuscan aged in stainless steel. With a price of USD 174, it represents a tremendous value, delivering a complex palate of plum, cherry, walnut, and mint. It consistently earns high scores and is a fantastic entry into top Italian wines without breaking the bank.
5. Casanova di Neri Cerretalto – A Bold Brunello di Montalcino
- Score: 95 points
- Average Price: USD 377
Casanova di Neri’s Cerretalto Brunello di Montalcino stands out for its fuller, riper character. Founded in 1971, this estate has built a reputation for producing expressive Sangiovese wines. The 2018 vintage has notes of cherry, plum, and cassis, with an underlying freshness and structure that make it age-worthy and highly sought after.
6. G.B. Burlotto Barolo Monvigliero – Piedmont’s Nebbiolo Classic
- Score: 95 points
- Average Price: USD 476
In northern Italy’s Piedmont, G.B. Burlotto’s Barolo Monvigliero is a testament to Nebbiolo’s potential for elegance and aromatic complexity. With delicate notes of violet, pomegranate, and currant, this Barolo is a “stunning beauty” that captures the essence of Monvigliero’s terroir. At USD 476, it represents both luxury and tradition.
7. Luciano Sandrone Vite Talin – A Modern Barolo Marvel
- Score: 96 points
- Average Price: USD 488
A relative newcomer, the Vite Talin by Luciano Sandrone, has quickly garnered acclaim. Launched in 2019, this Nebbiolo is aged in French oak, imparting flavors of black cherry, raspberry, and exotic spices. Though initially priced at USD 563, it now averages USD 488, marking it as a valuable collector’s item in the years to come.
8. Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia – The Original Super Tuscan
- Score: 95 points
- Average Price: USD 372
Sassicaia is the origin story of Super Tuscans, having risen to fame after a 1978 blind tasting that pitted it against Bordeaux. Known for its signature Bolgheri character, Sassicaia combines dark berry notes with hints of leather and autumn spices. Priced at USD 372, it’s one of Italy’s most iconic wines that has held steady in quality and acclaim over decades.
9. Roagna Asili Vecchie Viti – Barbaresco’s Pride
- Score: 95 points
- Average Price: USD 347
From Barbaresco, Roagna’s Asili Vecchie Viti is a prestigious Nebbiolo with red fruit and saffron notes. With a legacy stretching back to 1890, this wine is admired for its finesse and purity. It’s an elegant choice at USD 347 and provides a unique expression of the Nebbiolo grape.
10. Avignonesi Occhio di Pernice Vin Santo di Montepulciano – Italy’s “Holy Wine”
- Score: 95 points
- Average Price: USD 497
Rounding out the list is Avignonesi’s Vin Santo di Montepulciano, a sweet, rosé-hued wine with a history that spans centuries. Made from dried Sangiovese grapes, it delivers rich notes of candied orange zest, maple syrup, and hazelnut. Priced at USD 497, it’s a premium wine that offers an indulgent taste of Italy’s vinous heritage.
Conclusion: Italian Excellence Without the Exorbitance
Italy’s finest wines showcase a diversity that goes beyond high-profile Super Tuscans, offering a selection of exceptional bottles across price ranges. From traditional Brunellos and Barolos to the distinctive Vin Santo, Italy’s top wines are still, for the most part, accessible, providing wine enthusiasts with high-quality options that won’t necessarily rival Napa in price. Whether for collectors or casual drinkers, Italian wines continue to hold their place as benchmarks of quality and elegance in the global wine market.
Source: Wine-Searcher