93 pts Vinous
Drinking Window 2027 - 2032
Depths of licorice and lavender complicate crushed blackberries as the 2023 Syrah blossoms in the glass. It is silken upon entry, gaining tension as tart wild berry fruits and crisp mineral tones saturate the palate, all offset by a subtle tinge of candied citrus. The 2023 finishes with staining length yet remains energetic, leaving a sour cherry resonance that lingers long.

The fully biodynamic Stefano Amerighi winery continues to refine its pure, site-transparent Syrah from Cortona. Winemaker Francesco Beligni has increased whole-cluster fermentation and discontinued the use of oak barrels, opting instead for a mix of concrete and amphora. I tasted an experimental version of their Syrah Rosa that was made without sulfur; it was a joy to taste, but it will not be released into the market at this time. Amerighi has recently acquired a parcel with stony soils in the foothills of the Apennine Mountains, planted at 700 meters of elevation. This area is outside the Cortona DOC, but it has the Amerighi team very excited. I had a chance to preview the 2024 (made with 100% stem inclusion) from concrete tank—it’s spicy, mineral-driven and refined. I can’t wait to revisit it in the future. The 2023s should not be missed. Like everyone else in this part of Italy, Cortona suffered in 2023. Amerighi lost about 20% of their yields, but the wines are quite good. - By Eric Guido, April 2026, Vinous