A nose like a private library with old books on the shelves, dried lavender and violets on the desk, and sunbeams and damp air from outside streaming through the drapes, held at bay by a smoky warmth from the hearth. The palate delivers a riot of berries and chocolate and spices, with a salty astringency at the back. Tannins and acid that start quiet, and then rise up and roar. Score - 98. (Danielle Callegari, Wine Enthusiast, Dec. 31, 2023)

A riot of pepper lights up the nose, from cracked black to green peppercorn to hot chili. Flint and leather undertones empower the heat, while aromas of raspberry jam and vanilla provide balance. The palate stays spicy, with snappy, confident acidity, but a sweetness lingers, and a finish of chili and chocolate ties everything together. Transcendent. Drink 2030-2040 or beyond. Cellar Selection. Score - 98. (Danielle Callegari, Wine Enthusiast, Dec. 1, 2023)

The Le Macchiole 2021 Bolgheri Rosso is a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. The wine kicks it up from the start with bold but also very fresh fruit tones of dark cherry and blackberry. The quality of the primary fruit is spot-on, especially in this balanced vintage, and you get fun, punchy flavors to pair with grilled meats and a side of French Fries. The wine has enough structure, acidity and elegant tannins to stand up to the fat in those foods. Drink date: 2023-2030. Score - 93+. (Monica Larner, robertparker.com, May 31, 2023)