Some red wines stand out long before the year is over. Not because they follow the same stylistic direction, but because they reach a point where intensity, balance and identity align. These are wines that show how modern red wine can be both focused and deeply character‑driven, while remaining firmly rooted in their origin. They are bottles that have already made a clear impression — and deserve their place at the top so far.
Bibi Graetz – Soffocone di Vincigliata 2024
Italy – Tuscany, Fiesole
Sangiovese
97 points
6 stars
Soffocone 2024 is one of the most striking expressions from Fiesole in recent years. The style is full and dark, with tightly woven fruit and a depth that feels both modern and unmistakably Tuscan. The spicy undertone adds warmth, while the structure keeps the wine firm and focused. A Sangiovese that already stands out as one of the most complete experiences of the year.
Jean Monnier – Pommard 1er Cru “Fremiers” 2023
France – Burgundy, Pommard
Pinot Noir
97 points
4 stars
The Fremiers vineyard shows Pinot Noir from a deep and structured angle. Dark berries, mineral tension and a clear sense of power run through the entire flavour profile. The elegance is intense but never detached, and the fullness acts as a calm foundation. A Premier Cru that already positions itself as one of the most impressive Pommard experiences this year.
Longyu Estate – Long 12 2021
China – Longyu
Cabernet Sauvignon
97 points
3 stars
Long 12 is one of the most concentrated Cabernet expressions from Asia so far. The dark fruit is dense and focused, and the spicy structure gives the wine a serious and distinctive profile. The intensity never becomes heavy, and the balance between power and purity is surprisingly precise. A Chinese Cabernet that shows how quickly the region is moving toward international top level.
Domaine Michel Rebourgeon – Pommard Les Vaumuriens 2023
France – Burgundy, Pommard
Pinot Noir
97 points
3 stars
Les Vaumuriens sits high in Pommard, and the altitude is reflected in the wine’s cool and firm profile. The fruit is dark but never heavy, and the mineral backbone creates a precise and upright line through the flavour. The expression is classic, yet shaped by a modern clarity that makes the wine both intense and elegant. A Pommard that already stands as one of the most focused expressions of the 2023 vintage.
Bodegas Trenza – Trenza Old Vines Rizado 2020
Spain – Murcia, Yecla
Monastrell
96 points
4 stars
Old Vines Rizado presents Monastrell in its most concentrated form. The dark fruit is dense, and the old vines provide an intensity that feels both raw and controlled. The warm spice adds depth, while the structure keeps the wine tight and defined. A bottle that shows how strong Yecla can be when Monastrell is allowed to unfold with full presence.
