Toscana IGT 'Lodovico' Tenuta il Nicchio 2021 (750ML)

94 Points, Antonio Galloni, Antonio Galloni: The 2021 Lodovico is Lodovico Antinori’s Cabernet Franc-driven red from vineyards on the Bolgheri/Bibbona border, one of the most privileged spots on the Tuscan Coast. A classy, polished wine, Lodovico is alluring right out of the gate. Plush contours wrap around a core of black cherry, plum, espresso, licorice and cloves. Dollops of Petit Verdot add spice. The 2021 can be cellared for a few years or enjoyed now with a few hours of air. Lodovico is a very good wine, and yet I think more is possible. Perhaps much more. This part of the Tuscan Coast is magical for Bordeaux varieties. Rather than exalt these qualities, the search for textural richness and concentration tends to mask some of the inherent potential here. I would prefer to see a wine with less overt oak and even more varietal and regional character." 02/25

97 Points, Monica Larner, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "A blend of Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot, the Tenuta di Biserno 2021 Lodovico shows an inky and impenetrable appearance. The wine is textured and bold, with sweet tannins and lots of rich fiber wrapping thickly over the palate. There is a pretty touch of nutmeg and cinnamon that appears over the wine's finely tuned tannins. You get lots of black fruit intensity in this full-bodied Tuscan red that promises a long drinking window." 02/25

98 Points, Aldo Fiordelli, JamesSuckling.com: "This Tuscan beauty shows aromas of delicate Mediterranean herbs, oak bark, licorice root, orange leaves, cloves, sweet tobacco and restrained bramble fruit. Sleek elegance shines on the palate, with a full body, lavish tannins and long, refreshing, integrated acidity. Persistent aftertaste of sweet tobacco. Drinkable now, but best from 2026." 04/25

98 Points, James Button, Decanter: "‘When he was doing Masseto, his inspiration was Petrus, and for Lodovico it's Cheval Blanc,’ states Lodovico Antinori's daughter, Sophia. This Cabernet Franc-based blend from a north-facing single vineyard in Bibbona is only made in the finest vintages – and 2021 is very fine indeed. While the 2020 tasted alongside is drinking better right now, the 2021 arguably has more in terms of potential. It seduces with its violet- and lavender-laden dark hedgerow berries and black cherry character, with a delightful red cherry finish. Lifted, vertical and saline, it's a really classy bottling with plenty of promise." 02/25