Italy

Only made in the best vintages, the 2016 Chianti Classico Riserva from Querciabella is a really beautiful bottling from this stunning estate. The product of three single vineyards, it’s currently pretty reserved, but with notes of fresh cherries, wild roses, and a hint of rosemary. It’s a simply wonderful wine.

The 2015 Camartina is an astonishing super-Tuscan. A blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Sangiovese, from high altitude vineyards in Greve-in-Chianti, it’s a wine that astonishes with its elegance, finesse, and purity. Notes of morello cherry, blackcurrant, and wild flowers, with an intensely structured core, and a long, savoury finish. Outstanding, a real tour de force.

The 2015 Camartina is an astonishing super-Tuscan. A blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Sangiovese, from high altitude vineyards in Greve-in-Chianti, it’s a wine that astonishes with its elegance, finesse, and purity. Notes of morello cherry, blackcurrant, and wild flowers, with an intensely structured core, and a long, savoury finish. Outstanding, a real tour de force.

The 2015 Camartina is an astonishing super-Tuscan. A blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Sangiovese, from high altitude vineyards in Greve-in-Chianti, it’s a wine that astonishes with its elegance, finesse, and purity. Notes of morello cherry, blackcurrant, and wild flowers, with an intensely structured core, and a long, savoury finish. Outstanding, a real tour de force.

The 2015 Camartina is an astonishing super-Tuscan. A blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Sangiovese, from high altitude vineyards in Greve-in-Chianti, it’s a wine that astonishes with its elegance, finesse, and purity. Notes of morello cherry, blackcurrant, and wild flowers, with an intensely structured core, and a long, savoury finish. Outstanding, a real tour de force.

A blend of Chardonnay and Grechetto, the 2018 Cervaro has lovely richness to the fruit, with notes of hazelnut and a hint of honey. You feel the Umbrian sun here, but it's all in balance.

One of the great Super-Tuscans, in 2017 Tignanello is intense and structured, with notes of wild herbs, baked earth, and cassis. There's a silkiness to the finish, which lasts an age.

Coming from a single vineyard on the Tignanello estate, Solaia takes its name from the sunny nature of vineyard. The 2017 is opulent and exotic, with loads of spice and a savoury, mineral finish.

A single vineyard Freisa, and a step up, this is a brilliant wine from this tiny estate. Wild hedgerow and flowers soar from the glass, with incredible structure and length. Mineral, precise, and very long, this is a delight. And it ages brilliantly: older bottles we tried blew us away.

Freisa is a forgotten grape variety of the Langhe. High up in the commune of Camo, Mario and Gabriele are showing just how good it can be. Floral and fresh, with elements of red berry fruit, some herbal character, and also nicely grippy tannins, this is a wonderful alternative to a Langhe Nebbiolo.

A blend of two declassified Nebbiolo da Barolo vineyards: Bussia Brovi in Monforte d’Alba & Roncaglie in La Morra. This has plenty of volume, with delicate fruit, notes of rose petal and plenty of minerality on the finish. A lovely example of what's to come.

Just 2000 bottles were made of this, from Monforte vineyards near to Monchiero. Dark and juicy, with blackcurrent and a hint of tar, there's lively acidity and a very pure and charming finish. This is so delicious. Bravo.

Vibrant in colour, there's a complex nose of pomegranate, iron oxide, and bright, wild strawberry fruit. There's just a lick of tannins, and a very savoury, focussed finish. Joyful now, but with the bones to age, too.

Lovely concentration and ripeness to the 2017 Cerasuolo, with just a hint of fava bean and blood orange on the nose, and hedgerow fruit on the palate. There's a depth here that comes from the vintage, but it's in no way overblown. Lovely.

This is a real benchmark white of Italy, that ages spectacularly. Mineral, intense, with plenty of grip and palate weight, it's a remarkable wine. Buy this, and keep if for a few years.

Wow. What purity and focus, and also such silky tannins. This is a brilliant red. Notes of pomegranate and rose petal, and lots of blood orange add to the core of red fruit. The tannins are talc-like, and there’s such focus on the palate. This is outstanding.

More shy on the nose, but on the palate there’s incredible depth and intensity. Really powerful and grippy, very wild, with notes of orange, peaches and apricots, and such a mineral undercurrent. The best of Etna.

Delicate and herbal on the nose, with fresh lavender as well as plenty of pomegranate and red berry fruit. The tannins sneak up on you: there’s an almost nebbiolo element with that grip and a tar and roses element. But the bright, pale colour and volcanic undertones give it away.

More shy on the nose, but on the palate there’s incredible depth and intensity. Really powerful and grippy, very wild, with notes of orange, peaches and apricots, and such a mineral undercurrent. The best of Etna.

Sourced from across the Barbaresco region, from trusted suppliers, this is a wonderfully fragrant example of the region's everyday grape variety.

Yet another wine that shows just how good the 2014 vintage is. Soaring aromatics, incredible finesse, and remarkable length. A complete wine.

Wonderfully fresh and vibrant, particularly for a 2017, this has notes of cinnamon and freshly cut flowers swirling from the glass. A finessed and classy Barbaresco, that's surprisingly ready to go.

Yet another wine that shows just how good the 2014 vintage is. Soaring aromatics, incredible finesse, and remarkable length. A complete wine.

Juicy and fine boned, with notes of orange and a hint of ripe beef tomato, the 2018 Barbera is a lovely wine. It's drinking well out the gate, but will age nicely, too.

Ian D'agata has written, "I have long thought that the Arneis was by far Giacosa’s most underrated wine", and this is a zesty, fresh example from one of the grape variety's staunchest defenders

This comes from a single site in the Roero region, giving bright fruit and silky tannins. Giacosa's mastery of Nebbiolo is well known, and this shows their whole talent.

Wonderfully fresh and vibrant, particularly for a 2017, this has notes of cinnamon and freshly cut flowers swirling from the glass. A finessed and classy Barbaresco, that's surprisingly ready to go.

A top vineyard, the Rabaja shows real intensity and power, particularly in the brilliant 2016 vintage. Classic notes of tar and roses are also supported with hints of citrus zest, and a bass note of tobacco. Incredibly complex.

In the remarkable 2016 vintage, it's no surprise that this was a top performer. There's astonishing energy here, with dark berry fruit, a hint of cassis, and loads of exotic spice. The finish is incredibly long.

In the remarkable 2016 vintage, it's no surprise that this was a top performer. There's astonishing energy here, with dark berry fruit, a hint of cassis, and loads of exotic spice. The finish is incredibly long.

A lovely wine from the vineyard surrounding the estate, this is some of the best value that you'll find in Piedmont. Delicate but not overly, the finish here is stunning, with so much energy and poise. Delicious, and approachable younger than some.

The Nervo comes from Serravalian soils, and shows the high-toned fruit, citrus lift, and minerality that you'd expect from such origins. In 2018 it's a real stunner: not to be missed.

From Tortonian soils, as found in Barolo and La Morra, this is for those who like a slightly silkier, richer style of Nebbiolo. Notes of tar and tobacco on the finish, and there's exotic spice, too. Beautifully complex, and very long.

One of the best Dolcettos we know, with wonderful pure berry fruit, silky tannins, and amazing texture and finesse on the finish. Not overblown, and everything is held together with vibrant acidity.

Crunchy fruit, with notes of sour cherry and pretty floral, with lovely energy and such a sense of vibrancy on the palate. Just such a joyful wine.

Lightly sparkling, this is a wine of poise and stunning energy. With notes of elderflower and crunchy apples, with freshly picked mint and sage and a fine, silky texture, this is a mouthwatering wine that will have you reaching for glass after glass. We challenge you to find a more upfront and delicious wine.

Just 4,000 bottles were produced of this brilliant fizz from Cascina Cerutti. On the nose, notes of wild flowers and quinine, and a beautiful core of ripe apples and greengage. The palate is silky and intense, with a fine thread of acidity, and a chalky texture. There’s just a hint of panettone on the finish, and a creaminess that lasts for minutes. This is a brilliant bubbly.

The 2015 Riserva from Rabaja has plenty of breadth and volume as you'd expect, with notes of black pepper and sage, and a core of ripe fruit. This is a charming Barbaresco right now. Lovely.

Massara is Verduno's forgotten vineyard, and this has wonderful wild strawberry perfume and nervy acidity. Lovely energy here, and a long and fragrant finish.

Monvigliero is undoubtedly a Grand Cru of Piedmont: this shows why, in the classically styled 2013 vintage. Notes of wild strawberries and hint of pomegranate and blood orange. The palate is so silky and sensous, and the sapid finish lasts for minutes. Brilliant

One of the finest vineyards in Barbaresco, from a spectacular vintage. This is perfumed, intense, and fine-boned, with amazing precision on the finish. Outstanding.

Made from the Pelaverga grape, endemic to Verduno. This is so peppery, lithe, and graceful. Lots of crunchy strawberries and white pepper, and hints of tarragon, too. Incredibly fresh: a brilliant aperitif wine, or for every night of the week.

The 2017 Coltassala, the single vineyard wine from Volpaia, is brooding, intense, and very powerful. With time it's sure to be an impressive wine: at this price, a no brainer.

90% Sangiovese. 10% Merlot. Plums and wild cherries on the nose, intense and powerful, with lovely silky fruit and balsamic notes. There’s a candied orange note, and plenty of clove spice, too. Very complex, and very delicious.

A single ungrafted vineyard produces the pinnacle of Volpaia's production. The 2016 is impressive. Notes of rose petal and graphite swirl, and the tannins are intense and structured. Give this a little time: you'll be rewarded.

Such a heady nose on this of hazelnuts, figs, and exotic spices. The palate has amazing freshness, with plenty of grip and a long, saline, nutty finish. Impossible to spit.

On the nose notes of pomegranate, fresh morello cherries, and a hint of grapefruit pith. The palate is intense and tightly wound: this will need some time to come out of its shell. Yet you feel the rippling energy here, the purity of fruit, and the underlying complexity: this is an astonishingly good Nebbiolo from one of the region’s masters. Not to be missed.

The 2013 Bricco Boschis was an impressive wine, and this Riserva performs as you'd hope. Notes of blood orange and pomegranate support the core of fruit, and the tannins are incredibly well integrated. Brilliant

A touch more 'rustic' in the loosest possible sense than the San Giuseppe, the Vignolo shows notes of tobacco and dried leaves, alongside a dark cherry core, and a cool and mineral finish. The tannins are considerable, but soften with time in the glass, while the finish lasts an age. Another winning 2013 from Cavallotto.

The vintage offering from the estate, this spends four years at least on the lees. The result is a savoury, complex, stunning sparkling wine from the north of Italy. Notes of peaches and hazelnuts, with oodles of minerality on the finish. Serious and long.

A real rarity, this spends an impressive five years on the lees, adding even more notes of hazelnut and brioche, as well as a delicious dried fruit character to the wine. So long, pure, and complex, with a finish that lasts for minutes. Riper that most vintage Champagne, but in terms of complexity would give many prestige cuvées a run for their money.

First introduced to us by Manfred Ing, winemaker at Querciabella, this is a beautiful sparkling from the shores of Lake Iseo. There’s notes of peach and just a lick of bread dough, with fine acidity and wonderful finesse and salinity on the finish. This is a fizz that is just so easy to enjoy.

First introduced to us by Manfred Ing, winemaker at Querciabella, this is a beautiful sparkling from the shores of Lake Iseo. There’s notes of peach and just a lick of bread dough, with fine acidity and wonderful finesse and salinity on the finish. This is a fizz that is just so easy to enjoy.

Just 5,000 bottles produced from this one hectare vineyard, in the direction of Montalcino. Here, there’s volcanic sand coming from Monte Amiata. 2016 is a brilliant vintage, and this shows notes of ripe cherry, iron oxide, and plenty of floral lift. A bargain.

So much elegance on the nose, real finesse and focus. There’s a texture here, and a purity, too. This is beautiful with a real sense of power. Plenty of blood orange and a touch of tea, too. The fruit here is stunning, and the length outstanding. This is a delicious bottle of wine. So well balanced, and so fine. Wonderful.

The 2006 Ombrone from Cupano is a wine to stop you in your tracks. Forest floor and dried fruit, and so much spice and intensity. It's almost Pinot like in its perfume, but with more depth. A joy to drink.

Juicy and fresh, this blend of Barbera and Nebbiolo is a charming, delicious wine from Clerico. There’s the intensity and juicy character you’d expect from 2017, but still with plenty of acidity. Bravo.

The Pajana comes from the Ginestra cru in Monforte d'Alba, and is undoubtedly a Grand Cru of Barolo, particularly in 2016. Intense on the nose, with notes of tar and rose petal, the palate is structured and intense. This is a viscerally thrilling wine: one with astonishing poise and balance. So long, and so impressive.

A little more closed today, there’s delicate strawberry fruit on the nose, as well as a pomegranate nose. On the palate there’s a richness, but perfectly balanced by grippy Serralunga tannins and loads of energy. So, so well balanced, but in need of a bit of time.

The fruit on this Barolo, a selection of the most open barrels, that then goes into large casks, is breathtaking. There’s intensity and purity, with also plenty of fine tannins and loads of energy. This is brilliantly balanced, and so long. Wonderful.

The Ciabot Mentin in 2016 is a brooding beauty. Monforte tannins and stunning power and intensity, there’s such a beautiful depth and energy to this wine from the team at Clerico. On the finish is a crushed rock character, and despite its power it’s never overbearing. A lesson in balance.

Very powerful and intense, just 2,500 bottles were produced of this. Lots of balsamic and wild herbs, and there’s also plenty of fresh acidity keeping it focussed. Very long on the finish. Impressive.

A fresh, open, charming expression of Nebbiolo in 2018. Silky tannins, lively acidity, and notes of rose petal and pomegranate, and plenty of grapefruit pith, too. This is very well put together: a wine you want to drink and drink.

A great vintage for Barbera, and this is juicy, intense, and very moreish. There’s dark berries and plenty of citrus peel, and a beautifully silky texture. This will age well, too.

Soaring aromatics of wild roses, tar, and mulberries swirl from the glass on this intense, powerful Mosconi. The palate is grippy and powerful, but there’s an elegance and vibrancy here that’s so hard to coax from Monforte. This is an astonishing bottle of wine: a masterpiece in the making. Will be breathtaking in 5-10 years time.

Always a sensuous wine, the 2016 Cannubi takes it to a whole new level. Silky acidity and floral notes combine with a power and intensity that’s rarely seen. A real tour de force.

The 2016 Via Nuova shows impeccable balance of fruit and savoury notes. There’s wonderful fragrance, and a real orange blossom character. This blend of a number of vineyards is astonishingly good in 2016.

Deep in colour, the nose on the 2018 Titolo is perfumed and fragrant, with notes of wild herbs, tapenade, but also strawberries and fresh cherries. The tannins are supple but present, and there’s a smoky, almost volcanic character to the palate. This is a brilliant red, that punches well above its price point.

Thie 2016 Vigna Chiniera is more closed at this stage than the Casa Mate, curiously (it's often the inverse). This is powerful and structured, with tons of intense fruit and a beautiful vibrant acidity. There's so much latent energy here, with power too. This is such a brilliant wine: but will need time to come around.

The Casa Maté is surprisingly open and floral today, with beautiful notes of dark cherry, lavender, and notes of baked earth, too. This is very intense and structured, but the tannins are perfectly refined and there's a mouthwatering, saline finish. Outstanding.

The 2013 Runcot is a remarkable wine. From the vineyard in front of the Cantina, depicted on the label, this is spectacularly pure and energetic, with notes of mulberry and fresh cherries, with spice and a savoury tang on the finish. Remarkably long, complex, and profound, this is a new level from Grasso.

Always a real favourite, this Petite Arvine balances ripe, mouthfilling fruit, with taut acidity and a real savouriness. It's a charming white, and brilliant when paired with mountain food

The 2018 Pinot Noir from Elio and Nicolas Ottin is another step forward for this charming estate. It’s a beautiful wine, with wild flowers on the nose, and such energy and silky tannins. The finish is bright and pure, and there’s a real clarity here. One of our favourite wines, in 2018 it’s not to be missed.

Juicy, zesty, fine-boned, and moreish: this is a brilliant food wine. What more could you want from Barbera? This comes from a plot in the Ravera vineyard.

Cogno was the first estate to label a wine 'Ravera', and this shows why their examples are so highly regarded. It's perfumed and elegant, yet with astonishing intensity and concentration. The finish is saline and fine, and lasts an age. Complimenti!

A small single plot, entirely made from the Lampia clone of nebbiolo, Valter has managed the heat of 2015 beautifully: this is still a cool, savoury, impeccably balanced Barolo. Notes of wild strawberry and rose, and silky acidity. Bravo.

Perhaps the ultimate expression of Barbera, this is a remarkable wine. It comes from a quarter of a hectare of 120 year-old vines, still on their own rootstocks. It is incredibly complex, with notes of cumin and other exotic spices, alongside a dark core of mulberry and dark chocolate. Intense, long, and spectacularly mineral, it will age brilliantly.

A delicious Barolo, that punches above its price point, the Cascina Nuova in 2016 balances pure red fruit, a floral character, hints of spearmint and very fine tannins. It's a top choice in 2016.

This vineyard was planted in 1991: it’s the same age as Valter’s daughter, Elena. And Elena drew the picture that adorns the label at the age of three. Made from the Rosé clone. 2014 was a huge success for Valter: this is simply stunning. Has to be tried.

First vintage of this vineyard was 2003: there’s 1.5ha and around 8,000 bottles produced. 500m of altitude gives freshness, while the vineyard faces south, bringing depth. There’s a sweet and sour character, here. Nicely judged tannins. Plenty of them, so give this a year or so, but there’s plenty of energy, too. Balsamic and Mediterranean herbs, and a touch of terra cotta. Pretty long and floral and good energy. Needs plenty of time, but there’s lots here to be liked.

The 2018 Saffredi is another impressive wine from Elisabetta Gepetti. Bold and intense, there’s a real graphite element - this feels like ripe Bordeaux, with lovely energy. Really very well put together, and so long, with spice and baked earth unfurling on the finish.

The 2017 Morellino di Scansano Riserva from Fattoria Le Pupille offers outstanding value for money. Notes of fresh morello cherry and cinnamon swirl from the glass. The palate is incredibly fresh - particularly for a 2017 - but with excellent richness to the fruit. Very long, intense, and delicious: put this with food and you'll be away.

The 2018 Saffredi is another impressive wine from Elisabetta Gepetti. Bold and intense, there’s a real graphite element - this feels like ripe Bordeaux, with lovely energy. Really very well put together, and so long, with spice and baked earth unfurling on the finish.

The 2018 Saffredi is another impressive wine from Elisabetta Gepetti. Bold and intense, there’s a real graphite element - this feels like ripe Bordeaux, with lovely energy. Really very well put together, and so long, with spice and baked earth unfurling on the finish.

The 2018 Saffredi is another impressive wine from Elisabetta Gepetti. Bold and intense, there’s a real graphite element - this feels like ripe Bordeaux, with lovely energy. Really very well put together, and so long, with spice and baked earth unfurling on the finish.

Now made in the Val d'Arno di Sopra appellation, instead of an IGT Toscana, the 2018 Galatrona is one of the finest vintages ever produced at this stunning estate. It’s silky and enveloping, with purity of fruit and stunningly defined floral notes. This is a benchmark Tuscan Merlot, that’s not far off the quality of Masseto. At this price, in this vintage, it’s a must-buy.

A blend of 30% La Morra fruit, 30% Castiglione Falletto fruit, and 40% Serralunga fruit, the 2016 Barolo from Figli Luigi Oddero is a model Nebbiolo. Vibrant in colour, notes of pomegranate molasses and wild cherries swirl from the glass. The palate is tightly wound, with loads of intensity, acidity, and tannin, but all parts are in perfect balance: an astonishing success. This is a simply brilliant wine, showing why 2016 is (deservedly) so highly prized.

Lamole is one of the highest areas of the Chianti Zone, and that's shown in the vibrant fruit and slight herbal lift that's evident here. It's a really juicy, charming wine.

This is the pinnacle of Mannetti’s productions, and yet again it shows it’s pedigree and breeding in 2017. Crushed herbs and wild berries, with refined tannins and loads of power. A tour de force.

This is the pinnacle of Mannetti’s productions, and yet again it shows it’s pedigree and breeding in 2017. Crushed herbs and wild berries, with refined tannins and loads of power. A tour de force.

The 2017 Vigna del Sorbo is dark and brooding, and will need plenty of time. Yet there is still the lift that Giovanni always seems to find in his wines, with notes of rosemary and blood orange. Long and fine: this needs plenty of time.

The 2017 Vigna del Sorbo is dark and brooding, and will need plenty of time. Yet there is still the lift that Giovanni always seems to find in his wines, with notes of rosemary and blood orange. Long and fine: this needs plenty of time.

Notes of dark berries and thyme on the nose of this slightly sultry yet charming red from Giovanni Manetti. Wonderful tannins, and a long, silky finish. A wine you’ll want to drink, time and time again.

The nose on this is intense and powerful, with dark fruit and a baked earth character. On the palate there’s that core of fruit, and intense tannins that will need a year or two to soften. But there’s the complexity hinting at the bright future ahead, with notes of rose petal and fresh green tea, alongside lots of that mineral, talc character, keeping the wine fresh and lifted. It's a gorgeous Brunello.

A single vineyard in Serralunga is a real hidden gem of the Barolo zone. Vibrant acidity, talc-like tannins, high toned fruit, and a long, citrus tinged finish all combined to make a classic Serralunga Barolo, in a great vintage. Not to be missed.

One of the best Freisas out there, this is deep, brooding and complex, with notes of tobacco and forest floor alongside exotic spices, and a core of dark fruit. A wine to match the Nebbiolos of the region.

The 2016 Albe is a beautiful wine from the Vajra family, that shows just how talented they are, and what a great vintage this is. Notes of pomegranate and blood orange swirl from the glass, with ripe cherries and thyme on the palate. The finish is stunningly long, with a hint of iodine bringing lift and freshness. Stunning.

The 2016 Albe is a beautiful wine from the Vajra family, that shows just how talented they are, and what a great vintage this is. Notes of pomegranate and blood orange swirl from the glass, with ripe cherries and thyme on the palate. The finish is stunningly long, with a hint of iodine bringing lift and freshness. Stunning.

The newest wine in the Vajra range, from the very top of the hill on tortonian soils. This is elegant and finely judged, with beautiful floral perfume and a long, savoury finish. It's a standout effort.

In 2016 the Bricco delle Viole has an added layer of intensity and purity, with incredible fruit definition, silky tannins, and a long, mineral, structured finish. This is one for the long haul: a truly great wine.

In 2016 the Bricco delle Viole has an added layer of intensity and purity, with incredible fruit definition, silky tannins, and a long, mineral, structured finish. This is one for the long haul: a truly great wine.

It's hard to decide whether we prefer the Ravera or Bricco delle Viole this year. Incredibly floral, with cool strawberry fruit, and so much clarity and purity: almost like you can feel the breeze blowing straight off the alps.

"Sorì San Lorenzo adds lots of dark mineral definition to cassis, wild cherry, rose and Provence herbs. Like the other wines, it needs extra cellar aging time.” 95+ points, Monica Larner, The Wine Advocate

"This very young Sorì Tildìn takes time to open, and it remains on the nervous side even after it has been given ample time in the glass. The best course of action is to wait until the 10-year mark before opening this bottle. It needs that extra time to soften and flesh out.” 95 points, Monica Larner, The Wine Advocate

First bottled in 1983, it was named after Lucia and Angelo Gaja's daughter, Gaia Gaja, and Angelo Gaja's grandmother Clotilde Rey. It was the first commercially made Chardonnay in Piedmont, and shows incredible texture, depth, and spicy complexity. A legendary wine, with lots of freshness in 2018.

The 2017 Barbaresco from Gaja is a really beautiful wine. Notes of rose petal and blood orange give a hint of the wine's freshness and lift. The palate is textured and finessed, with amazing depth of flavour, and just a touch of tar and tapenade. This is a multilayered, complex Nebbiolo, from one of the masters.

"This is a balanced and carefully assembled Barbaresco with a lean approach backed by fine tannins and bright acidity.” 95 points, Monica Larner, The Wine Advocate

Gianfranco's young vine cuvée, this has notes of ripe plums, prunes, and lots of store cupboard spice. The tannins need time to soften, but put this with food and you'll be richly rewarded.

The Es Riserva is surely the greatest expression of Primitivo that you'll find. Astonishing depth, complexity, length, and poise. Were this from a more celebrated region, it would be double the price.

From red soils by the sea, and 40 year old vines, this is delicate in colour but immediately striking with its perfume. There's so much going on here. Red fruit, baked earth, spice, and Mediterrannean herbs. So complex, and wonderfully balanced.

60 year old bush vines give an immediate depth to this wine. There's a real iron oxide, iodine character to the nose. This is astonishingly well balanced. There's a real sea spray character, which alongside the grippy tannins brings mouth-watering freshness. Bravo: outstanding.

This wine is a lesson in the elegance yet depth that Brunello can attain in a great vintage. Notes of crushed blackberries and wild strawberries swirl from the glass, with orange peel and a hint of fresh tea. There’s a spearmint note here, too, giving lift and energy. This is long, focussed, complex and delicious. Does Brunello get any better?

This wine is a lesson in the elegance yet depth that Brunello can attain in a great vintage. Notes of crushed blackberries and wild strawberries swirl from the glass, with orange peel and a hint of fresh tea. There’s a spearmint note here, too, giving lift and energy. This is long, focussed, complex and delicious. Does Brunello get any better?

Vibrant on the nose, with notes of fresh strawberries and plenty of cherry fruit, too. Very elegant and finessed, and there’s a nice citrus element on the finish. Very nicely judged. Beautiful energy here, and a real sense of purity.

Vibrant on the nose, with notes of fresh strawberries and plenty of cherry fruit, too. Very elegant and finessed, and there’s a nice citrus element on the finish. Very nicely judged. Beautiful energy here, and a real sense of purity.

This wine is a lesson in the elegance yet depth that Brunello can attain in a great vintage. Notes of crushed blackberries and wild strawberries swirl from the glass, with orange peel and a hint of fresh tea. There’s a spearmint note here, too, giving lift and energy. This is long, focussed, complex and delicious. Does Brunello get any better?

From a single vineyard, this puts many a Babaresco to shame. So elegantly styled, with crunchy berry fruit and hints of rose petal and lavender, there's a long and silky finish here. Brilliantly balanced and very long indeed.

A juicy and finessed wine from Giovanni Almondo, that's the perfect way to discover their wines, and the Arneis grape. Crunchy pears and apples, and a citrus edge to this brilliantly drinkable white, from one of Piedmont's best producers.

Best known for their whites, the reds from Almondo should not be overlooked. This is floral and delicate, with silky tannins, and a mouthwatering finish. A wine you just want to drink.

The 2019 Bricco delle Ciliegie from Giovanni Almondo is an astonishingly good expression of the Arneis grape. Incredibly complex, notes of orange blossom, rosemary, and pine needles swirl from the glass. The palate is textured and savoury, with a core of fresh conference pears, and a thread of acidity that makes this so thirst-quenching.

The 2019 Bricco delle Ciliegie from Giovanni Almondo is an astonishingly good expression of the Arneis grape. Incredibly complex, notes of orange blossom, rosemary, and pine needles swirl from the glass. The palate is textured and savoury, with a core of fresh conference pears, and a thread of acidity that makes this so thirst-quenching.

From a single plot of the Bricco delle Ciliegie vineyard, planted on a precipitous slope, with some of the estate's oldest vines. More savoury and closed, but with such latent power, this is a remarkable Italian white. The pinnacle of the Arneis grape.

From a single plot of the Bricco delle Ciliegie vineyard, planted on a precipitous slope, with some of the estate's oldest vines. More savoury and closed, but with such latent power, this is a remarkable Italian white. The pinnacle of the Arneis grape.

Just 5% alcohol, this is a brilliantly fresh and juicy alternative to Moscato d'Asti. Notes of rhubarb and wild strawberries, and such vibrancy and life. This is just so delicious. A lovely wine.

An 80 year old parcel crafts one of the best Barberas we know. Notes of blood orange and loads of blue fruit, and such a finely judged structure. This is brilliant, and not to be missed.

Bricat is produced from the oldest, highest and best-exposed parcel of vines in the highly-rated Gramolere vineyard. With impressive purity, it’s a profound, structured, ageworthy Barolo. Still such a baby, but with loads of power and complexity, it’s one for the long haul. You’ll want to have this in your cellar.

Castelletto is one of the most highly regarded vineyards in Monforte d’Alba, that also surrounds the family’s winery. The Manzones’ single hectare of vines are at the top of the steep hill, and the wine combines Monforte’s typical powerful structure with a delicate purity that’s compelling. This has notes of mulberry and loads of rose petal, and so much salinity on the finish. A wonderful Barolo, with such a bright future.

With examples like this, it's easy to understand why Dolcetto is the everyday wine of so many Piedmontese. Brisk acidity, fresh and perfumed fruit, and a juicy finish make this a ridiculously drinkable red.

2017 was a lovely vintage for Barbera: a grape that often performs particularly well in hot vintages. This has loads of cherry fruit, fresh acidity, and a long and juicy finish. There's just a hint of oak spice completing the picture.

Rossese Bianco is a grape variety that patriarch Giovanni worked very hard to bring back from extinction. There's a breadth of flavour here, with weight on the palate, balanced with amazing salinity and a piercing acidity. This is juicy and moreish, and will age well, too.

Gramolere is the vineyard where it all began for the Manzone family, back in the 1960s. Their two hectares of vines here produce a Barolo of delicious purity and complexity that’s the estate’s calling card. Very red fruit, with hints of orange peel and lots of spice on the finish. This is astonishingly good.

This demonstrates why Monprivato is one of the world’s greatest vineyards, balancing both sides of the Barolo zone as only top Castiglione wines can. Silky tannins and ripe cherries point at the tortonian soils of the west: vibrant acidity and profound minerality at the serravalian soils of the east. Profound.

One of the most joyful, energetic Nebbiolos we know, this really shows its Serralunga roots. Notes of orange zest and pomegranate, and lots of bright red fruit. Brilliant for the price.

A new vineyard for Guido in 2014, and his pride and joy. Amazing, nervy acidity, and a mineral finish that lasts for minutes are two things that mark this out for the long haul. Oh, and it's incredibly delicious.

Lazzairasco comes from 45+ year old vines at about 300 metres altitude on a southeastern facing site in the Lazzarito cru in Serralunga. Always a brilliant wine, the 2016 is not to be missed, with amazing structure and length, and surprising elegance on the palate.

From the vineyard behind the estate, it's a cool, mineral expression of Nebbiolo, that in 2016 has worked beautifully. Notes of mint and thyme, as well as plenty of citrus lift give this complexity that builds up on the crescendo finish.

The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino from Il Poggione is beautiful. Notes of sour cherry and blood orange, with a hint of fresh tea, swirl from the glass. On the palate it’s focussed and powerful, with every part in brilliant balance. A stunner from this outstanding estate.

One of the original Super-Tuscans, the de Marchi family’s Cepparello is one of Italy’s greatest wines, and in 2017 it performs wonderfully yet again. A warm vintage, this maintains stunning freshness and poise. What a brilliant wine from this wonderful estate.

A classically styled vintage, the 2018 Chardonnay from Isole e Olena is a beautiful wine. Notes of peaches and candied lime on the nose, with buttery almonds and plenty of grip on the palate. The finish is long and focussed, and there’s stunning purity. Surely Italy’s best Chardonnay?

A classically styled vintage, the 2018 Chardonnay from Isole e Olena is a beautiful wine. Notes of peaches and candied lime on the nose, with buttery almonds and plenty of grip on the palate. The finish is long and focussed, and there’s stunning purity. Surely Italy’s best Chardonnay?

Isole e Olena's Chianti Classico is a real benchmark of the region. Notes of ripe cherries, plenty of spice, and minty lift on the finish. Really delicious,

One of the original Super-Tuscans, the de Marchi family’s Cepparello is one of Italy’s greatest wines, and in 2017 it performs wonderfully yet again. A warm vintage, this maintains stunning freshness and poise. What a brilliant wine from this wonderful estate.

Lovely delicacy on the nose. Feel a touch of oak, but it’s nicely spiced and plenty of juicy cherry fruit. There’s plenty of focus and a lovely density to the fruit. Lots of potential and density. Lovely drive here, and very saline on the finish. There’s a beautifully clean finish here, such a drinkable wine.

More power, spice and balsamic, impressive length, power of tannins and excellent mineral length. Like the density here - silky and mouthfilling, without being overblown.

This smells beautiful and has blood orange notes with plenty of focus and a lovely energy. Mouthwatering freshness, and there’s a real focus on the nose. Plenty of density here, with notes of baked earth, and lovely tannins on the finish. This is so juicy and fine, and with another year in bottle, this will open up even more, with so much texture and finesse. A brilliant Brunello.

The 2016 Birba is a real beauty. Notes of crushed rocks and flowers swirl on the nose, with a core of dark yet fresh fruit. The palate is structured and intense, but with a refinement and balance, and a finish that lasts an age. This is a superb wine: one to stock up on, to get ahead.

50% Refosco, 50% Schioppettino, this is a lively, silky red, with loads of whole berry, crunchy fruit, and a finish that lasts an age. Such a joy to behold, and a wine that will age brilliantly.

One of our favourite whites, this is a wine that really shows off its origins. Smoky and savoury, with a taut, linear palate, and so much saline energy. This is such a joyful wine: not to be missed.

A beautiful Pinot Noir, with wild roses and loads of iron oxide character on the palate. This is long, savoury, and so complex. Brilliant.

This was one of my favourite discoveries of the year. Just 2,500 bottles of this expressive Merlot are produced, that wows with its silky tannins and incredible minerality. Wow.

Smells beautiful. Very delicate on the nose, beautiful drive and a very silky nose. Some dark berry fruit, plenty of floral character, and just a hint of herbal lift. Very saline on the palate, very finely judged tannins – talcum powder– this was just bottled but already showing plenty of potential.

From two plots in the appellation, the 2015 Brunello from Le Potazzine is surely the best wine they’ve produced here. We’ve tasted it throughout its development, and it’s blossomed into a sublime wine. Bright cherry fruit with a zesty blood orange note keeps this focussed and pure, and the finish is remarkably long. This is a lesson in elegance and purity from one of the best producers in Italy. Not to be missed.

One year in Botti grande. Nice nose, very delicate, and there’s plenty of creamy fruit. This is beautifully balanced, with such a sense of drive and length.

From the vineyard behind the house, the 2016 Barbaresco from Manuel Marinacci is a joy. Vibrant yet concentrated, with notes of spearmint, straweberry, and a hint of quinine, it's a long, pretty, delicious nebbiolo.

Marco is delighted with this year's Ribolla: justifiably so. Direct and fresh, there's such clarity and focus here. Notes of lemon verbena and a whiff of freshly cut grass, and incredible purity on the finish.

Broader than the Ribolla Gialla, this washes over the palate with notes of lemon pith and orange blossom. The finish is ever so slightly waxy, but the wine is not lacking freshness. Delicious.

This is fast becoming a go-to lighter red. Lovely perfume of blood orange and fresh raspberries, with a lively, wild palate, with hints of thyme and a certain smokiness. The finish is so cleansing: it has you reaching for another glass.

This is a sweet wine that sees a little noble rot: in 2018 it's really stunning. Notes of fine marmalade and honeyed richness, with incredibly acidity on the palate. The finish is long and complex, and unfurls in waves. Really beautiful.

In 2015 they only managed 5 tons/ha: they’d hope for a maximum of 8 tons/ha. Lots of glossy fruit, here. This is very silky and nice grip on the palate, too. Quite a plush style, notes of cinnamon and also a floral element. Nicely balance, while freshness balances that fruit.

From a hot site running along a ridge, it's the balance here that's most remarkable. Notes of wild herbs and some blackcurrent dominate, but there's also a fine core of citrus fruit that keeps this lifted, alongside chalky tannins, and real salinity. This will need some time, but will be very very impressive.

Silky and finessed, and plenty of purity here. Nice balance of cherry fruit, a creamy almond character, and also a citrus note: there’s also a very ripe tomato character. Complex for a Rosso.

Good intensity here, very silky and suave on the nose, but more closed than the Brunello classico. It’s quite grippy on the palate, with plenty of power and lots of dark chocolate character. There’s still that intensity of fruit, however, and plenty of fragrance on the finish. Nice balance of dark and light, sweet and sour. A 1.56h parcel, with 5 clones of Sangiovese – it’s the only parcel on different soils from the rest.

Ripe and wild, with notes of kirsch and prune, as well as iodine and plenty of spicy notes. This is a beautiful, rich, balanced wine, at an outstanding price.

Montevetrano is a blend of Aglianico, with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. It's an intense, powerful wine, but what marks it out is the freshness and textured layers here. A brilliant southern Italian red.

Ripasso means that the wine spends time on the Amarone skins, bringing richness. This is a beautifully balanced wine, with notes of fig and raisin, but still a core of bright fruit. There's a nice herbal lift on the finish.

A blend of Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella, and Molinara, this is only pressed off the skins in January, following a period of drying. Intensity and power, with grippy tannins, notes of wild strawberry, and plenty of herbal character. It wears its alcohol beautifully, and the finish is stunningly long, with jus ta lick of oak spice. Very good indeed.

Lots of bright strawberry fruit here, silky tannins, and a real energy and salinity to the palate. It's a really charming, easy drinking Valpolicella. Delicious - and even better slightly chilled.

This is so atypical from Prosecco, the DOC wouldn't let Primo label it as such. But never mind: it's one of the best sparklings we know. Notes of orange blossom and iodine on the nose, and hints of wild strawberry and lots of salinity on the palate. So impressive.

Crisp acidity and drive on the palate give way to fresh flowers and crunchy pears. There’s so much complexity here, with notes of acacia and peach supported by crushed rocks and a hint of white pepper. Brilliant, and so moreish and a truly remarkable Prosecco.

This comes from old vines in the single Col de Vent vineyard. The name means knots, referring to the gnarled character of the vines. On the nose notes of peach and wisteria, while the palate is lively with lemon zest, and loads of minerality. This is a very special Prosecco.

A contender for Italy's greatest white, the 2018 La Rocca has loads of bright peach fruit, notes of greengage, and lots of stem ginger on the finish. It's a real joy: a wine that blossoms in the glass.

Beautifully fresh, fragrant, and totally delicious, this is the perfect wine to discover Pieropan. It will age nicely for a few years, too.

Calvarino takes its name, 'little Calvary', from the steepness of the slope and the difficulty this presents in working the vineyard. Rich, ripe, and perfumed, it has more upfront joy than the Rocca, but perhaps a little less longevity. It will still age a decade or more, if you'll let it.

A blend of vineyards across the Barolo zone, the 2016 Barolo from Pio Cesare has a classic nose of tar and roses, and a candied orange peel element, too. The tannins are soft and rounded, and there’s impressive but not overpowering acidity. It’s a beautiful Barolo, and one that will be approachable earlier than some.

A single vineyard in Serralunga d'Alba, the Ornato in 2016 is remarkable. It's so nervy, with talc like tannins, and notes of blood orange and quinine, and a long, structured finish. Very good.

The 2016 Cicala is a powerful, structured wine from Serravalian soils. Notes of citrus and sour cherries. This is really impressive...but give it time.

This smells of classic Barolo: tar and roses. The tannins are silky but considerable, and the finish is savoury and incredibly mineral. It's a spectacular 2016.

This comes from a 3.8ha plot, with vines planted in 1937, with others in the 1950s and 1960s. Very intense and nervy, with grippy tannins, and so much cool fruit on the finish. Effortless and sophisticated.

A legendary wine, from a legendary vintage. Produced in tiny quantities, and hugely sought after, this is is a historic wine.

Coming only from vines of 20 years old or more, this is an intense, focussed, lively red, that shows the very best of a great vintage. Notes of mulberry and dark cherry, with hints of cinnamon and sage. This is a complex, long, profound wine: particularly at this price.

A blend of Sangiovese with Canaiolo, this is a beautiful introduction to the wines of Boscarelli. Juicy fruit, silky tannins, and a savoury finish. Just so drinkable.

Just 5,000 bottles are made from this two hectare plot with an average of 25 year old vines, and the 2016 is one of the best ever, surely. Deep and intense, with amazing definition of pure, crunchy fruit, and texture and vibrancy on the palate. In time, this will be astounding.

A lovely introduction to Sperino, this has lots of blue fruit on the nose, with spice and a hint of thyme, too. The palate is lively, with very fine tannins, and a long and savoury finish. Brilliant for the price.

Just wonderful: with wines like this, you can see why the region was once so highly prized. Very floral and aromatic, with a herbal lift, too, this is structured and complex. One for the long haul: a brilliant Nebbiolo.

The vineyard in Barbaresco that arguably made Roagna’s name. Pajé is a small strip of land facing South West, with an average age of the vines for this wine of 40 years old. So finessed and fragrant, the palate is very pure and silky. There’s such energy here. This is stunning. So much tension but balanced with generosity to the fruit.

Made from vines that are over 50 years old on average, this is a complex, soaring, sophisticated Barbaresco. Notes of rose petal, and a peppermint character swirl from the glass, while the palate is elegant, long, and profound.

The largest parcel owned by the Roagna family, in front of the winery in Castiglione Faletto, the vines for this wine are between 25 and 50 years old. In 2015 this is incredibly floral and delicate on the nose. Lovely notes of orange blossom and thyme. Very fragrant, there’s a long and chalky finish.

A tiny production white, made from 30+ year old Chardonnay from the Pira Vineyard, alongside a little white Nebbiolo. Lovely grip here, with notes of peaches, wild flowers and a hint of butter on the finish. A beautiful Italian white.

Made from Timorasso, that comes from Derthona, to the north-east of the Langhe, this is a stunning white from Luca, that balances ripe fruit and loads of minerality. It’s a truly complex, ageworthy white from a talented winemaker.

Made in a traditional way, from old vines that are up to 40 years old, this is a truly brilliant expression of Dolcetto. Bright berry fruit, liquorice, and pot pourri all swirl from the glass, and there’s a detailed, energetic finish, too. Drink this. Brilliant.

Fewer than 100 cases of this brilliant Barolo were made; this is tiny production. This is so silky and finessed, with pure and ripe orange peel, showing the Tortonian soil character. Quite ripe berries give a richer core of fruit. The tannic grip grows but lovely delicacy too. This is to be sought out.

Fewer than 100 cases of this brilliant Barolo were made; this is tiny production. This is so silky and finessed, with pure and ripe orange peel, showing the Tortonian soil character. Quite ripe berries give a richer core of fruit. The tannic grip grows but lovely delicacy too. This is to be sought out.

More dark fruit than the Gallina, this is more brooding, as typical from the Albesani site. But with a beautiful colour, lots of tarry depth on the nose, and hints of sour cherry and pot pourri, as well as a grippy palate, this is savoury, long, and has remarkable potential.

More dark fruit than the Gallina, this is more brooding, as typical from the Albesani site. But with a beautiful colour, lots of tarry depth on the nose, and hints of sour cherry and pot pourri, as well as a grippy palate, this is savoury, long, and has remarkable potential.

From one of the most famous sites in Neive, this shows the classic character of the commune. Very delicate and fragrant, there’s so much rose petal character, and a lovely salinity on the finish. This is a very pretty Barbaresco.

From one of the most famous sites in Neive, this shows the classic character of the commune. Very delicate and fragrant, there’s so much rose petal character, and a lovely salinity on the finish. This is a very pretty Barbaresco.

Wild and expressive on the nose, there’s notes of spice and tons of wild berry fruit. Yet on the palate there’s lovely purity and fragrance. It’s very savoury with plenty of texture, and it’s remarkably long. There’s a real bitter orange character: this is almost negroni-like. Give this time to come together: you’ll be richly rewarded.

Wild and expressive on the nose, there’s notes of spice and tons of wild berry fruit. Yet on the palate there’s lovely purity and fragrance. It’s very savoury with plenty of texture, and it’s remarkably long. There’s a real bitter orange character: this is almost negroni-like. Give this time to come together: you’ll be richly rewarded.

A 0.24 Hectare site bought by the Roagna family in 1929, the average age of the vines is over 50 years. The 2015 is a stunning example. With notes of iron and scorched earth, this is a savoury, tannic, brooding Barbaresco: one that will age spectacularly. Not to be missed.

A 0.24 Hectare site bought by the Roagna family in 1929, the average age of the vines is over 50 years. The 2015 is a stunning example. With notes of iron and scorched earth, this is a savoury, tannic, brooding Barbaresco: one that will age spectacularly. Not to be missed.

A 0.24 Hectare site bought by the Roagna family in 1929, the average age of the vines is over 50 years. The 2015 is a stunning example. With notes of iron and scorched earth, this is a savoury, tannic, brooding Barbaresco: one that will age spectacularly. Not to be missed.

With an average of 50 year old vines, the 2015 Asili VV is expressive and complex, with soaring aromatics of spice and wild flowers, and such delicacy to the fruit on the palate. The finish is so long, complex, and mineral.

With an average of 50 year old vines, the 2015 Asili VV is expressive and complex, with soaring aromatics of spice and wild flowers, and such delicacy to the fruit on the palate. The finish is so long, complex, and mineral.

The youngest vines for this were planted in 1937, and this is a profound expression of Barolo. Notes of camphor and ripe and exotic fruit is balanced by talc-like tannins, and brisk, dancing acidity. This is simply brilliant.

This comes from younger vines throughout the family’s vineyards, and is one of the best Rossos you’ll find. Delicate berries on the nose, with impeccable balance, and a very long, focussed finish. Brilliant.

From the very top of the hill, the finest site in the Paje vineyard, and vines that are at least 60 years old, Crichet Paje is one of the great wines of Piedmont. The 2012 is surprisingly approachable, but don’t let that fool you. This is one for the long haul. If you let it age, it’s sure to blow you away. Astonishingly beautiful. If you can get hold of this, do so.

Predominantly Sangiovese with just a hint of Colorino and Canaiolo. Plenty of vibrant acidity here: the altitude of the estate has worked beautifully with the warmth of the vintage. Vibrant acidity and a long and perfumed finish.

Blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, aged in barriques for two years and bottled unfiltered, making this a Super Tuscan. Intensely structured and deep, with plum and blackberry, and an iodine character, too. Very good, and will get better.

From a single vineyard which surrounds a church of the same name, from the best grapes in the vineyard, and a blend of mainly Sangiovese and a little Pugnitello. Incredibly perfumed and zesty, with notes of blood orange and sour cherry.

The nose on this is so detailed and fragrant. Notes of rose petal and orange blossom swirl from the glass, with cherries and a hint of baked earth. There’s beautiful energy, here, and a sense of precision on the palate. Very fine-grained and with explosive fruit, this is a remarkable Barolo, from a great vintage.

Pre-phylloxera, 100 year old vines, and 100% Nerello Mascalese makes a wine that wows with its intensity, power, and fine boned tannins. So wild and energetic, this will age spectacularly.

80% Nerello Mascalese, and the rest Nerello Cappuccio and Mirello Rossa, this is silky, savoury, and very spicy, with notes of blood orange alongside cherry fruit, and exotic spice. A delight.

This comes from a single vineyard at an impressive 1000m above sea level. It's so racy and volcanic, but with a backbone of bright, bracing acidity. Brilliantly complex, and very long indeed.

From 50-70 year old vines, from an average of 700m above sea level, this is an expressive, vibrant, complex white. Oranges and lemons on the palate, with a very savoury, saline finish.

A blend of 80% Nerello Mascalese, 20% Grenache at 950m above sea level. Richness here, with a very floral character, and a spearmint finish. Very complex, and delicious.

An amazing value wine, which impresses with its depth of fruit, its lively acidity, and its savoury finish. Just a joyful everyday wine.