Chilled citrus and white peach aromas mingle with orange blossom and lilac on the nose. The palate is pleasantly mineral-driven with flavors of crushed shell, grilled lemon and green Anjou pear. A whiff of dried hay on the finish brings everything together.

This is an absolutely gorgeous wine. Seductive aromas of brioche, green apple tart, pear compote and yogurt draw you into the complex and layered nose that is playfully dusted with white blossom. Rich and plush in texture the elegant elixir is replete with ripe and tart orchard fruit that combines restraint and splendor in perfectly-balanced harmony.

Think of that friend who has been doing the same thing since the mid-eighties and just keeps raising the bar. Piodilei since 1985, and the 2023 is gloriously sure of itself, baked orchard fruit and heady flowers with roasted hazelnut and cream arriving with the kind of quiet, earned authority that only decades of mastery can deliver. A bright, clean line of acidity holds the whole beautiful picture perfectly in frame. Ready now, even better later. Drink now to 2045. 

Some wines ask for patience and this is one of them. Mosconi opens slowly and deliberately, warmed split cherries simmering with clove, anise and pink peppercorn, drying roses and dusty earth arriving with quiet, elegant authority. The palate follows with roasted red plums and a touch of strawberry jam, juicy yet taut, the tannins so smooth and easy the wine is gone almost before you realize it. A beautiful result from a difficult year. Drink now to 2045.

The tannins grip immediately, with a sleek line of boysenberry, cherry, and sweet tobacco. Salted meats and violets are profound, with a dot of white pepper, but the standout is the seamless mouthfeel.