Bell’Aja

VINTAGE 2021

James Suckling – 93
Bright and fresh nose with dark cherries, blackberries and hints of chocolate, licorice and wet stones. Some black olives, too. Medium- to full-bodied with a succulent, racy mid-palate and vivid acidity. Ripe and polished tannins and a lingering aftertaste. A tense and nicely shaped red. Drink or hold.

Wine Spectator – 95
Lush and supple in texture, yet with lively acidity and finely wrought tannins, this red features black currant, plum, vanilla, coffee, iron and wild herb aromas and flavors. Powerful yet graceful, energetic and long, with a complex aftertaste that echoes fruit, mineral and oak elements. Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Best from 2027 through 2043. 1,300 cases made, 200 cases imported.

VINTAGE 2020

James Suckling – 92
Dark, roasted spices, tar and some chocolate on top of the rich blackberries. Full-bodied, juicy and nicely generous on the palate with plenty of ripe fruit and a long, flavorful finish. Very giving, but balanced. Delicious now, but can hold, too.

VINTAGE 2022

James Suckling – 91
A fruity red with aromas and flavors of plums, currants and tobacco. Touch of walnuts. It’s medium-bodied, creamy and balanced. Excellent drinkability. Drink now.

Wine Spectator – 89
There’s an enticing core of cherry and blackberry fruit in this red, with leafy underbrush, iron and earth notes. This fresh version leaves a line of dusty tannins. Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2027. 5,000 cases made, 900 cases imported.

VINTAGE 2021

James Suckling – 92
A juicy and precise Bolgheri here that shows a crunchy, medium- to full-bodied palate charged with fine, fresh tannins and juicy cherries and berries. Just a hint of chocolate and some herbs. Fruit, especially the purity of the fruit, is the protagonist here. Already enjoyable now.

Wine Enthusiast – 92
A savory nose ranges from soil, leather and cured meat to brighter, more acidic red peppers and dried tomatoes, with an herbal kick providing freshness. The palate preserves the savoriness while also adding the sweetness of strawberries and cherry tomatoes. Tannins are robust but forgiving, and acidity is persistent.