Italian Discovery ~ Value 7 Pack ~ Bonus Free Bottle
$252
$298
This is Great……and Here’s Why!
Indulge in a journey through Italy's rich wine heritage with our Italian Discovery Value 7-Pack. This exquisite collection offers a taste of Italy's finest wines, each bottle revealing the country's diverse terroirs and grape varieties.1 x Botter Prosecco Extra Dry NV - Veneto Italy
Commended - International Wine Challenge 2018
Silver - International Wine & Spirit Competition 2018
Bronze - International Wine & Spirit Competition 2017
Commended - International Wine Challenge 2016
Bronze - International Wine & Spirit Competition 2016
Commended - International Wine Challenge 2014
Bronze - International Wine & Spirit Competition 2014
Gold - Mundus Vini 2014
Bronze - International Wine Challenge 2013
Jancis Robinson "Pear juice, lemon, off dry. Functional, fine."
Falstaff Magazine "Filigree nose with elegant nuances of white flowers and a hint of wet stone."
Casa Vinicola Botter is a multi-awarded Italian wine producer. The company was founded in 1928 as a small business selling local Veneto wines in barrels. After World War II, it moved onto bottled wine and began to export internationally. Botter is now managed by the third generation of the family. Botter owns two wine estates; including Divici a winery with 100 hectares (250 acres) of organic vineyards in the hills around Treviso. These are planted with a range of classic Veneto varieties such as Corvina, although the initial focus has been on an organic Prosecco.
Wine Spectator - 'Sparkling Success' "Prosecco has brought Italian sparkling wine to the forefront of the wine world. Prosecco has almost become a byword to mean any sparkling wine. In reality, Prosecco DOC, the most widely available example from the region, is specifically the product of vineyards that span a large swath of approximately 70,000 acres through the Veneto and Friuli–Venezia-Giulia regions. The soft, creamy texture and approachable structure that people love is the result of the Charmat production method, and the pretty floral and peach flavors typical to the wine are characteristics of the area's native Glera grape, Prosecco's dominant variety."
Veneto is a substantial and increasingly important wine region in the northeastern corner of Italy. Veneto is slightly smaller than Italy's other main wine-producing regions – Piedmont, Tuscany, Lombardy, Puglia and Sicily however it generates more wine than any of them. Although the southern regions Sicily and Puglia were for a long time Italy's main wine producers, this balance began to shift north towards Veneto in the latter half of the 20th Century. In the 1990s, southern Italian wine languished in an increasingly competitive and demanding world, while Veneto upped its game, gaining recognition with such wines as Valpolicella, Amarone, Soave and Prosecco.
Glera is a long-standing synonym of northern Italy's Prosecco grape, and the name by which it is now officially known. This green-skinned variety has been grown for hundreds of years in the Veneto and Friuli regions, most famously to produce sparkling Prosecco wines.
1 x Collosorbo 'Rosso di Montalcino' Sangiovese 2019 - Tuscany, Italy
93/100 James Suckling (2016 vintage)
90/100 Robert Parker ~ Wine Advocate (2016 vintage)
Montepulciano d’Abruzzo
James Suckling "Offers more concentration on the nose with mostly notes of blackberry pie, plum cake and even some Christmas pudding. On the palate, the fruit is melded beautifully with chewy yet tight tannins and taut acidity. Great stuff for what it is." (2016 vintage)
Robert Parker "The 2016 Rosso di Montalcino opens to a bright ruby colour with purple highlights. The wine is youthful and bright in personality with a full load of plump cherry and ripe blackberry. You also get hints of spice, crushed mineral and balsam herb to round off the bouquet. The mouthfeel is rich, generous and nicely structured. This is an excellent value buy (55,000 bottles were made).” (2016 vintage)
The Winemaker "A traditional, fresh velvety wine, Rosso di Montalcino comes from the Estate’s best vineyards, the same that produce Brunello. It is made from 100% Sangiovese with persistent, fruity aromas and considerable structure. This is a very versatile wine suitable for average periods of aging." (2016 vintage)
The Tenuti di Collosorbo has been owned by the Ciacci family since 1850. The first bottle of Brunello di Montalcino was made in 1966 by Giuseppe Ciacci, a progenitor of the first of the three generations of this winery. Now Giovanna Ciacci and her daughters, oenologist Laura and agronomist, Lucia Sutera Sardo, operate the vineyard and winery, assisted by esteemed oenologist Paolo Caciorgna and cellar master, Daniele Guidotti, who has been in charge of the Tenuta's winery for more than twenty years and is considered one of the family.
The region of Rosso di Montalcino is found in the same defined area as its bigger brother, the Brunello di Montalcino DOCG. Both are situated in the heart of Tuscany, in central Italy. This DOC was created in 1984 in order to make the most of the fruit from younger vines of new plantings. The idea was to create a fresher style of wine that needed considerably less ageing time (one year with only six months in oak) than its sibling.
Sangiovese (or Nielluccio in Corsica), a dark-berried vine, is the most widely planted grape variety in Italy. Virtually synonymous with the red wines of Tuscany, and all the romanticism that goes with the territory, Sangiovese is the core constituent in some of the great names in Italian wine. Italy's love affair with Sangiovese – and indeed the world's – is generations old, though recent grapevine research suggests the variety is not as ancient as once thought.
1 x Renato Ratti Langue Nebbiolo 'Ochetti' 2020 - Piedmont, Italy
91/100 Decanter (2019 vintage)
91/100 Robert Parker (2019 vintage)
89/100 Wine Spectator (2019 vintage)
90/100 James Suckling (2018 vintage)
90/100 Robert Parker (2018 vintage)
88/100 Wine Spectator (2018 vintage)
90/100 Cellar Tracker (2018 vintage)
92/100 James Suckling (2017 vintage)
90/100 Robert Parker (2017 vintage)
89/100 Cellar Tracker (2017 vintage)
92/100 James Suckling (2016 vintage)
92/100 Wine Spectator (2016 vintage)
92/100 James Suckling (2016 vintage)
92/100 Wine Spectator (2016 vintage)
91/100 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (2016 vintage)
16/20 Jancis Robinson (2015 vintage)
Bronze Medal - The TEXSOM International Wine Awards 2021 (2018 vintage)
Bronze Medal - The TEXSOM International Wine Awards 2020 (2018 vintage)
Decanter: "This version of Langhe Nebbiolo named Ochetti, is an historical wine for Ratti, as they have been producing it for 50 years. The grapes are sourced primarily from the sandy soils of the Roero district, where the tannins of Nebbiolo are much more rounded upon release. 2019 was a powerful year with ideal ripeness. Medium-full on the palate; aromas of fresh red cherry, rosemary and pink roses, with very good acidity and impressive persistence- Drinking Window 2022 - 2032.” (2019 vintage)
Robert Parker: "Softly pliant and silky, the Renato Ratti 2019 Langhe Nebbiolo Ochetti shows fine and nuanced detailing with lots of genuine and delicate character of the grape. The fruit is subtle in this wine, but the bouquet affords more room to crushed stone, blue flower and powdered licorice. The wine's finely shaped texture would work next to a simple plate of egg noodles and grated Parmigiano. Production is an impressive 100,000 bottles.” (2019 vintage)
The Winemaker: "Renato Ratti Nebbiolo Ochetti is an elegant and fragrant red, ruby red in color. The nose expresses a fine and persistent bouquet with hints reminiscent of wild strawberries and raspberries. In the mouth, it is pleasantly bitter, velvety, light and full at the same time. Perfect in combination with skewered and grilled red meats, game, fondue with truffles, agnolotti, traditional white and red meat dishes enriched with spicy sauces." (2019 vintage)
James Suckling: "A fresh, clean nebbiolo with candied cherries, watermelon and some citrus. Medium body. Crisp finish. Serve slightly chilled. Drink now.” (2018 vintage)
Robert Parker: "Here's another bottle in the little solider series from this estate in La Morra. Each bottle in this group depicts an old military uniform on its front label. The Renato Ratti 2018 Langhe Nebbiolo Ochetti is a very fragrant and light expression. The wine reveals wild berry and tangy forest fruit with some bitter almond and a good dose of camphor ash or licorice that builds some nice complexity into the bouquet.” (2018 vintage)
Wine Spectator: “ Aromas of Mediterranean scrub augment the cherry, raspberry and floral notes in this agile red. Its flavors are delicate, yet there is nothing subtle about the resonant tannins. Fine balance and length. Drink now through . 8,333 cases made, 5,400 cases imported. — BS” (2018 vintage)
James Suckling: "Intense nose of dried lavender, raspberry coulis, tamarind and spice box. Round and generous on the palate with a layered approach to the blue fruit and tangy acidity to boot. Always a top nebbiolo. Drink now.” (2017 vintage)
Robert Parker: "This is a delightfully fresh and buoyant red wine with lots of dark fruit definition. The fruit for the 2017 Langhe Nebbiolo Ochetti comes from the Roero zone and its light, sandy soils. Here, you get the delicate berry tones of Nebbiolo with a bit more heft and heat from the warm vintage. Production is 90,000 bottles strong.” (2017 vintage)
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate - "Here's a great value wine. The wine offers tangy and rich fruit with wild berry and red rose aromas. The primary fruit is intense and rich, much more so than your average Langhe Nebbiolo. This wine shows extreme varietal purity with good power and momentum. If you are in the mood for Nebbiolo but don't want the formality of a Barolo, this wine is a great choice. It sees one year of oak aging." (2016 vintage)
James Suckling - "Shows much more intensity of fruit than most with fruit tea, hibiscus, citrus and raspberry cheesecake, as well as a touch of cloves and vanilla. Medium body, a sturdy frame of firm tannins and a juicy finish." (2016 vintage)
Wine Spectator - "Offering a mix of bright cherry, black currant, savory mineral and wild herb aromas and flavors, this is both lively and dense. Strikes a fine balance between all the elements, ending in a resonant aftertaste." (2016 Vintage)
Renato Ratti is a wine producer located in Barolo in northwestern Italy. It makes a wide range of wines from a number of Piedmont DOC and DOCG appellations, including Barolo, Dolcetto d'Alba, Barbera d'Alba, Barbera d'Asti and Monferrato. Renato Ratti spent time in Brazil producing Vermouth and sparkling wines before returning to his home in Piedmont in 1965. He purchased his first vineyard in the La Morra area and began making wines labelled with his own name. Along with the standard Nebbiolo, Ratti also grows Barbera, Dolcetto, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc.
Renato Ratti makes three single-vineyard Barolos, from the Marcenasco, Conca and Rocche dell Annunziata cru vineyards. These are the top offerings from the estate and can be cellared for up to 20 years. Along with the range of classic Piedmont wines from Alba and Asti, Ratti also makes a varietal Sauvignon Blanc wine called I Cedri and a blend of Barbera, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot called Villa Pattono, both of which are labelled under the Monferrato DOC.
8Wines: "The Ratti family are true Nebbiolo experts and have been working this land since the 1960s when Renato Ratti returned home from working in Brazil to pursue his dream of making his own wine. He purchased his first vineyard close to the Abbey of L’Annunziata in La Morra and became a pioneer in the Barolo region, making one of the area’s first single-vineyard wines and creating detailed maps of Barolo’s historical crus."
Barolo is a traditional hillside village in the rolling hills of Piedmont, northwestern Italy. The vineyards and wineries there have long been famous for producing some of Italy's very finest red wines – predominantly from the region's signature grape variety, Nebbiolo.
Nebbiolo is the grape variety behind the top-quality red wines of Piedmont, northwestern Italy, the most notable of which are Barolo and Barbaresco. Nebbiolo wines are distinguished by their strong tannins, high acidity and distinctive scent – often described as "tar and roses". They also tend to lose color. Within just a few years of vintage, most Nebbiolo wines begin fading from deep, violet-tinged ruby to a beautiful brick orange.
1 x Giacomo Montresor - Castello di Soave 2021 ~ Veneto, Italy
Bronze - Wine Enthusiast
Bronze - CellarTracker (2020 vintage)
Commended - Wine Enthusiast (2020 vintage)
Bronze - Wine Enthusiast (2019 vintage)
Bronze - Wine Enthusiast (2018 vintage)
Wine Enthusiast "The shy nose eventually reveals suggestions of hay and acacia. The palate is on the lean side, showing toasted notes, honey and beeswax but not much fruit richness. It closes on a bitter note."
Wine Enthusiast "This simple white has subtle aromas of tropical fruit and citrus. Reflecting the nose, the rather diluted, easygoing palate offers banana, grapefruit and candied notes before a rather bitter close. " (2020 vintage)
The Winemaker ".....full-bodied, fine aromatic persistence. Delicate and fruity aroma with hints of apple and acacia." (2017 vintage)
The Montresor family are prominent Italian winemakers, with their roots in the establishment of the wine industry in France. In the 16th century the family moved from Chateau Montresor in the Loire valley to Verona, Italy acquiring lands and estates and establishing viniculture in the region. In the second half of the 19th century, the family started selling the wines under the family name. Within a century they had established a reputational as an internationally acclaimed estate.
The story of the family, outside of their involvement in wine is fascinating. The count Claude de Montresor had a prominent position during Cardinal Richelieu reign, taking part in the political events as prime counsellor of Duke d’Orleans, the cousin of the King. Interesting also is the Montresor family's mentioned in Edgar A. Poe's famous tale 'The Amontillado Cask', where a member of the Montresor family is described as "a premium wine connoisseur with an excellent palate".
The Soave Blend refers to the combination of Garganega and Trebbiano di Soave (or Verdicchio) that make up Soave DOC wines, arguably one of Italy's most famous white wines. This crisp and fruity white wine, made mostly in the Venetian hills near Verona, is now enjoyed around the world, offering a simple and refreshing wine experience.
Soave Classico wines are produced under the Soave DOC of Veneto, north-eastern Italy, specifically from Soave's traditional classico vineyard zone. They are dry, still white wines made predominantly (at least 70%) from Garganega grapes. In the past decade Trebbiano Toscano and Pinot Bianco have been removed from the official makeup of Soave wines, leaving Chardonnay and Trebbiano di Soave (Verdicchio) as the only other grapes specifically sanctioned for use in the wines.
1 x Reguta Di Anselmi Ca’Stele Pinot Grigio 2022 ~ Friuli Latisana, Italy
Bronze - Decanter World Wine Awards (2014 vintage)
Bronze - CellarTracker (2008 Vintage)
The Winemaker "Velvety, dry, soft, well-balanced on palate. It is ideal as an aperitif or enjoyed with seafood or light food."
The Anselmi family's Ca'stella Pinot Grugio is a stunning Pinot Grigio certified for its quality and the region from which it prevails.
The Anselmi family established their vineyard and winery in the 1920’s, acquiring a small estate in the north east of Italy in the Fruili region. The vineyard is located on the coast and enjoys warm days and a cooling effect in the evenings. The family winery is now run by brothers Guiseppe and Lugi Anselmi who use traditional techniques to create aromatic and flavoursome wines.
Northeastern Italy (Veneto, Friuli-Venezia-Giulia and Trentino-Alto Adige) remains the world epicenter of Pinot Grigio production.
Friuli Grave (or Grave del Friuli) is a DOC covering a large area of land in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, between the Alps and the Adriatic sea. The region's combination of soil, climate and situation make for excellent wines, and viticulture here dates back to Roman times.
The region extends from the Adriatic coast northeast of Veneto. Watercourses are of particular importance to the terroir of Friuli Latisana.
Pinot Grigio is more than just the Italian name for Pinot Gris. The names are often used interchangeably and although the same grape, the varietals differ in characteristics as well as reputation.
The more refreshing Pinot Grigio style has enjoyed great success in various countries, most recently the United States, (where it is fondly nicknamed "Greej") and Australia. The most common descriptors of the style are "light", "crisp" and "dry". These characteristics are complemented by aroma notes citing lemon, green apple and blossoms.
The Grigio style is achieved by harvesting the grapes relatively early, in an attempt to retain as much fresh acidity as possible; the variety is naturally quite low in acidity. To retain freshness and "zing", fermentation and storage typically take place in stainless-steel tanks.
1 x Tor del Colle Riserva 2019 ~ Montepulciano d' Abruzzo, Italy
Bronze - International Wine Challenge (2007 vintage)
Silver - Vinalies Internationales (2006 vintage)
The Winemaker "Dry and herbaceous on the palate. Full-bodied and balanced. Intense, vinous bouquet with an immediate cherry flavor changing to notes of blackberries and licorice."
Tor del Colle is produced by the family-owned winery Casa Vinicola Botter, founded in 1928.
Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is one of Italy's most famous wines. This classic, well-rounded, plum-scented Italian red is made from Montepulciano grapes grown in the Abruzzo region, on Italy's Adriatic coast.
Riserva a Montepulciano d'Abruzzo wine must spend at least three years aging (at least six months of which must be in oak) before being released to the market. These wines have the ability to age exceptionally well.
1 x Tenimenti Mancini - Chianti Podere Della Filandra (Organic) 2020 ~ Chianti, Italy
Bronze - Decanter World Wine Awards
The Winemaker "Intense and clean to the nose, it opens with very intense floral scents that are prolonged with an aroma of fresh red fruits. In the mouth, it is the soft, good sensation of warmth balanced by perfect freshness. The tannins are young but pleasant and well balanced by the body and freshness. Good olfactory taste persistence, after swallowing the aromas of red fruits immediately return."
100% Sangiovese
The winemaking history of the Mancini family begins at the end of the nineteenth century with the construction of the first winery in San Polo and the cultivation of the first vineyards of the Podere Della Filandra. This continues with the subsequent acquisitions of the Tenute di Campriano and Muciafora, the most recent property. As early as 1926, the family became involved in the production of Chianti doc.
The Chianti region is located in Tuscany, that romantic area of central Italy known for its sweeping landscapes, burning hot sun and its wealth of art and food history. Like most other wines made in the Old World, Chianti derives its name not from the grape used to make the wine, which is Sangiovese, but from the region where it is made.
For a Chianti to be a Chianti, it must be produced in the Chianti region and be made from at least 80% Sangiovese grapes. While most Chiantis are 100% Sangiovese, some winemakers in the region like to blend the Sangiovese with a little Cabernet, Merlot or Syrah to soften the finish of the wine.
Indulge in a journey through Italy's rich wine heritage with our Italian Discovery Value 7-Pack. This exquisite collection offers a taste of Italy's finest wines, each bottle revealing the country's diverse terroirs and grape varieties.
1 x Botter Prosecco Extra Dry NV - Veneto Italy
Commended - International Wine Challenge 2018
Silver - International Wine & Spirit Competition 2018
Bronze - International Wine & Spirit Competition 2017
Commended - International Wine Challenge 2016
Bronze - International Wine & Spirit Competition 2016
Commended - International Wine Challenge 2014
Bronze - International Wine & Spirit Competition 2014
Gold - Mundus Vini 2014
Bronze - International Wine Challenge 2013
Jancis Robinson "Pear juice, lemon, off dry. Functional, fine."
Falstaff Magazine "Filigree nose with elegant nuances of white flowers and a hint of wet stone."
Casa Vinicola Botter is a multi-awarded Italian wine producer. The company was founded in 1928 as a small business selling local Veneto wines in barrels. After World War II, it moved onto bottled wine and began to export internationally. Botter is now managed by the third generation of the family. Botter owns two wine estates; including Divici a winery with 100 hectares (250 acres) of organic vineyards in the hills around Treviso. These are planted with a range of classic Veneto varieties such as Corvina, although the initial focus has been on an organic Prosecco.
Wine Spectator - 'Sparkling Success' "Prosecco has brought Italian sparkling wine to the forefront of the wine world. Prosecco has almost become a byword to mean any sparkling wine. In reality, Prosecco DOC, the most widely available example from the region, is specifically the product of vineyards that span a large swath of approximately 70,000 acres through the Veneto and Friuli–Venezia-Giulia regions. The soft, creamy texture and approachable structure that people love is the result of the Charmat production method, and the pretty floral and peach flavors typical to the wine are characteristics of the area's native Glera grape, Prosecco's dominant variety."
Veneto is a substantial and increasingly important wine region in the northeastern corner of Italy. Veneto is slightly smaller than Italy's other main wine-producing regions – Piedmont, Tuscany, Lombardy, Puglia and Sicily however it generates more wine than any of them. Although the southern regions Sicily and Puglia were for a long time Italy's main wine producers, this balance began to shift north towards Veneto in the latter half of the 20th Century. In the 1990s, southern Italian wine languished in an increasingly competitive and demanding world, while Veneto upped its game, gaining recognition with such wines as Valpolicella, Amarone, Soave and Prosecco.
Glera is a long-standing synonym of northern Italy's Prosecco grape, and the name by which it is now officially known. This green-skinned variety has been grown for hundreds of years in the Veneto and Friuli regions, most famously to produce sparkling Prosecco wines.
1 x Collosorbo 'Rosso di Montalcino' Sangiovese 2019 - Tuscany, Italy
93/100 James Suckling (2016 vintage)
90/100 Robert Parker ~ Wine Advocate (2016 vintage)
Montepulciano d’Abruzzo
James Suckling "Offers more concentration on the nose with mostly notes of blackberry pie, plum cake and even some Christmas pudding. On the palate, the fruit is melded beautifully with chewy yet tight tannins and taut acidity. Great stuff for what it is." (2016 vintage)
Robert Parker "The 2016 Rosso di Montalcino opens to a bright ruby colour with purple highlights. The wine is youthful and bright in personality with a full load of plump cherry and ripe blackberry. You also get hints of spice, crushed mineral and balsam herb to round off the bouquet. The mouthfeel is rich, generous and nicely structured. This is an excellent value buy (55,000 bottles were made).” (2016 vintage)
The Winemaker "A traditional, fresh velvety wine, Rosso di Montalcino comes from the Estate’s best vineyards, the same that produce Brunello. It is made from 100% Sangiovese with persistent, fruity aromas and considerable structure. This is a very versatile wine suitable for average periods of aging." (2016 vintage)
The Tenuti di Collosorbo has been owned by the Ciacci family since 1850. The first bottle of Brunello di Montalcino was made in 1966 by Giuseppe Ciacci, a progenitor of the first of the three generations of this winery. Now Giovanna Ciacci and her daughters, oenologist Laura and agronomist, Lucia Sutera Sardo, operate the vineyard and winery, assisted by esteemed oenologist Paolo Caciorgna and cellar master, Daniele Guidotti, who has been in charge of the Tenuta's winery for more than twenty years and is considered one of the family.
The region of Rosso di Montalcino is found in the same defined area as its bigger brother, the Brunello di Montalcino DOCG. Both are situated in the heart of Tuscany, in central Italy. This DOC was created in 1984 in order to make the most of the fruit from younger vines of new plantings. The idea was to create a fresher style of wine that needed considerably less ageing time (one year with only six months in oak) than its sibling.
Sangiovese (or Nielluccio in Corsica), a dark-berried vine, is the most widely planted grape variety in Italy. Virtually synonymous with the red wines of Tuscany, and all the romanticism that goes with the territory, Sangiovese is the core constituent in some of the great names in Italian wine. Italy's love affair with Sangiovese – and indeed the world's – is generations old, though recent grapevine research suggests the variety is not as ancient as once thought.
1 x Renato Ratti Langue Nebbiolo 'Ochetti' 2020 - Piedmont, Italy
91/100 Decanter (2019 vintage)
91/100 Robert Parker (2019 vintage)
89/100 Wine Spectator (2019 vintage)
90/100 James Suckling (2018 vintage)
90/100 Robert Parker (2018 vintage)
88/100 Wine Spectator (2018 vintage)
90/100 Cellar Tracker (2018 vintage)
92/100 James Suckling (2017 vintage)
90/100 Robert Parker (2017 vintage)
89/100 Cellar Tracker (2017 vintage)
92/100 James Suckling (2016 vintage)
92/100 Wine Spectator (2016 vintage)
92/100 James Suckling (2016 vintage)
92/100 Wine Spectator (2016 vintage)
91/100 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (2016 vintage)
16/20 Jancis Robinson (2015 vintage)
Bronze Medal - The TEXSOM International Wine Awards 2021 (2018 vintage)
Bronze Medal - The TEXSOM International Wine Awards 2020 (2018 vintage)
Decanter: "This version of Langhe Nebbiolo named Ochetti, is an historical wine for Ratti, as they have been producing it for 50 years. The grapes are sourced primarily from the sandy soils of the Roero district, where the tannins of Nebbiolo are much more rounded upon release. 2019 was a powerful year with ideal ripeness. Medium-full on the palate; aromas of fresh red cherry, rosemary and pink roses, with very good acidity and impressive persistence- Drinking Window 2022 - 2032.” (2019 vintage)
Robert Parker: "Softly pliant and silky, the Renato Ratti 2019 Langhe Nebbiolo Ochetti shows fine and nuanced detailing with lots of genuine and delicate character of the grape. The fruit is subtle in this wine, but the bouquet affords more room to crushed stone, blue flower and powdered licorice. The wine's finely shaped texture would work next to a simple plate of egg noodles and grated Parmigiano. Production is an impressive 100,000 bottles.” (2019 vintage)
The Winemaker: "Renato Ratti Nebbiolo Ochetti is an elegant and fragrant red, ruby red in color. The nose expresses a fine and persistent bouquet with hints reminiscent of wild strawberries and raspberries. In the mouth, it is pleasantly bitter, velvety, light and full at the same time. Perfect in combination with skewered and grilled red meats, game, fondue with truffles, agnolotti, traditional white and red meat dishes enriched with spicy sauces." (2019 vintage)
James Suckling: "A fresh, clean nebbiolo with candied cherries, watermelon and some citrus. Medium body. Crisp finish. Serve slightly chilled. Drink now.” (2018 vintage)
Robert Parker: "Here's another bottle in the little solider series from this estate in La Morra. Each bottle in this group depicts an old military uniform on its front label. The Renato Ratti 2018 Langhe Nebbiolo Ochetti is a very fragrant and light expression. The wine reveals wild berry and tangy forest fruit with some bitter almond and a good dose of camphor ash or licorice that builds some nice complexity into the bouquet.” (2018 vintage)
Wine Spectator: “ Aromas of Mediterranean scrub augment the cherry, raspberry and floral notes in this agile red. Its flavors are delicate, yet there is nothing subtle about the resonant tannins. Fine balance and length. Drink now through . 8,333 cases made, 5,400 cases imported. — BS” (2018 vintage)
James Suckling: "Intense nose of dried lavender, raspberry coulis, tamarind and spice box. Round and generous on the palate with a layered approach to the blue fruit and tangy acidity to boot. Always a top nebbiolo. Drink now.” (2017 vintage)
Robert Parker: "This is a delightfully fresh and buoyant red wine with lots of dark fruit definition. The fruit for the 2017 Langhe Nebbiolo Ochetti comes from the Roero zone and its light, sandy soils. Here, you get the delicate berry tones of Nebbiolo with a bit more heft and heat from the warm vintage. Production is 90,000 bottles strong.” (2017 vintage)
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate - "Here's a great value wine. The wine offers tangy and rich fruit with wild berry and red rose aromas. The primary fruit is intense and rich, much more so than your average Langhe Nebbiolo. This wine shows extreme varietal purity with good power and momentum. If you are in the mood for Nebbiolo but don't want the formality of a Barolo, this wine is a great choice. It sees one year of oak aging." (2016 vintage)
James Suckling - "Shows much more intensity of fruit than most with fruit tea, hibiscus, citrus and raspberry cheesecake, as well as a touch of cloves and vanilla. Medium body, a sturdy frame of firm tannins and a juicy finish." (2016 vintage)
Wine Spectator - "Offering a mix of bright cherry, black currant, savory mineral and wild herb aromas and flavors, this is both lively and dense. Strikes a fine balance between all the elements, ending in a resonant aftertaste." (2016 Vintage)
Renato Ratti is a wine producer located in Barolo in northwestern Italy. It makes a wide range of wines from a number of Piedmont DOC and DOCG appellations, including Barolo, Dolcetto d'Alba, Barbera d'Alba, Barbera d'Asti and Monferrato. Renato Ratti spent time in Brazil producing Vermouth and sparkling wines before returning to his home in Piedmont in 1965. He purchased his first vineyard in the La Morra area and began making wines labelled with his own name. Along with the standard Nebbiolo, Ratti also grows Barbera, Dolcetto, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc.
Renato Ratti makes three single-vineyard Barolos, from the Marcenasco, Conca and Rocche dell Annunziata cru vineyards. These are the top offerings from the estate and can be cellared for up to 20 years. Along with the range of classic Piedmont wines from Alba and Asti, Ratti also makes a varietal Sauvignon Blanc wine called I Cedri and a blend of Barbera, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot called Villa Pattono, both of which are labelled under the Monferrato DOC.
8Wines: "The Ratti family are true Nebbiolo experts and have been working this land since the 1960s when Renato Ratti returned home from working in Brazil to pursue his dream of making his own wine. He purchased his first vineyard close to the Abbey of L’Annunziata in La Morra and became a pioneer in the Barolo region, making one of the area’s first single-vineyard wines and creating detailed maps of Barolo’s historical crus."
Barolo is a traditional hillside village in the rolling hills of Piedmont, northwestern Italy. The vineyards and wineries there have long been famous for producing some of Italy's very finest red wines – predominantly from the region's signature grape variety, Nebbiolo.
Nebbiolo is the grape variety behind the top-quality red wines of Piedmont, northwestern Italy, the most notable of which are Barolo and Barbaresco. Nebbiolo wines are distinguished by their strong tannins, high acidity and distinctive scent – often described as "tar and roses". They also tend to lose color. Within just a few years of vintage, most Nebbiolo wines begin fading from deep, violet-tinged ruby to a beautiful brick orange.
1 x Giacomo Montresor - Castello di Soave 2021 ~ Veneto, Italy
Bronze - Wine Enthusiast
Bronze - CellarTracker (2020 vintage)
Commended - Wine Enthusiast (2020 vintage)
Bronze - Wine Enthusiast (2019 vintage)
Bronze - Wine Enthusiast (2018 vintage)
Wine Enthusiast "The shy nose eventually reveals suggestions of hay and acacia. The palate is on the lean side, showing toasted notes, honey and beeswax but not much fruit richness. It closes on a bitter note."
Wine Enthusiast "This simple white has subtle aromas of tropical fruit and citrus. Reflecting the nose, the rather diluted, easygoing palate offers banana, grapefruit and candied notes before a rather bitter close. " (2020 vintage)
The Winemaker ".....full-bodied, fine aromatic persistence. Delicate and fruity aroma with hints of apple and acacia." (2017 vintage)
The Montresor family are prominent Italian winemakers, with their roots in the establishment of the wine industry in France. In the 16th century the family moved from Chateau Montresor in the Loire valley to Verona, Italy acquiring lands and estates and establishing viniculture in the region. In the second half of the 19th century, the family started selling the wines under the family name. Within a century they had established a reputational as an internationally acclaimed estate.
The story of the family, outside of their involvement in wine is fascinating. The count Claude de Montresor had a prominent position during Cardinal Richelieu reign, taking part in the political events as prime counsellor of Duke d’Orleans, the cousin of the King. Interesting also is the Montresor family's mentioned in Edgar A. Poe's famous tale 'The Amontillado Cask', where a member of the Montresor family is described as "a premium wine connoisseur with an excellent palate".
The Soave Blend refers to the combination of Garganega and Trebbiano di Soave (or Verdicchio) that make up Soave DOC wines, arguably one of Italy's most famous white wines. This crisp and fruity white wine, made mostly in the Venetian hills near Verona, is now enjoyed around the world, offering a simple and refreshing wine experience.
Soave Classico wines are produced under the Soave DOC of Veneto, north-eastern Italy, specifically from Soave's traditional classico vineyard zone. They are dry, still white wines made predominantly (at least 70%) from Garganega grapes. In the past decade Trebbiano Toscano and Pinot Bianco have been removed from the official makeup of Soave wines, leaving Chardonnay and Trebbiano di Soave (Verdicchio) as the only other grapes specifically sanctioned for use in the wines.
1 x Reguta Di Anselmi Ca’Stele Pinot Grigio 2022 ~ Friuli Latisana, Italy
Bronze - Decanter World Wine Awards (2014 vintage)
Bronze - CellarTracker (2008 Vintage)
The Winemaker "Velvety, dry, soft, well-balanced on palate. It is ideal as an aperitif or enjoyed with seafood or light food."
The Anselmi family's Ca'stella Pinot Grugio is a stunning Pinot Grigio certified for its quality and the region from which it prevails.
The Anselmi family established their vineyard and winery in the 1920’s, acquiring a small estate in the north east of Italy in the Fruili region. The vineyard is located on the coast and enjoys warm days and a cooling effect in the evenings. The family winery is now run by brothers Guiseppe and Lugi Anselmi who use traditional techniques to create aromatic and flavoursome wines.
Northeastern Italy (Veneto, Friuli-Venezia-Giulia and Trentino-Alto Adige) remains the world epicenter of Pinot Grigio production.
Friuli Grave (or Grave del Friuli) is a DOC covering a large area of land in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, between the Alps and the Adriatic sea. The region's combination of soil, climate and situation make for excellent wines, and viticulture here dates back to Roman times.
The region extends from the Adriatic coast northeast of Veneto. Watercourses are of particular importance to the terroir of Friuli Latisana.
Pinot Grigio is more than just the Italian name for Pinot Gris. The names are often used interchangeably and although the same grape, the varietals differ in characteristics as well as reputation.
The more refreshing Pinot Grigio style has enjoyed great success in various countries, most recently the United States, (where it is fondly nicknamed "Greej") and Australia. The most common descriptors of the style are "light", "crisp" and "dry". These characteristics are complemented by aroma notes citing lemon, green apple and blossoms.
The Grigio style is achieved by harvesting the grapes relatively early, in an attempt to retain as much fresh acidity as possible; the variety is naturally quite low in acidity. To retain freshness and "zing", fermentation and storage typically take place in stainless-steel tanks.
1 x Tor del Colle Riserva 2019 ~ Montepulciano d' Abruzzo, Italy
Bronze - International Wine Challenge (2007 vintage)
Silver - Vinalies Internationales (2006 vintage)
The Winemaker "Dry and herbaceous on the palate. Full-bodied and balanced. Intense, vinous bouquet with an immediate cherry flavor changing to notes of blackberries and licorice."
Tor del Colle is produced by the family-owned winery Casa Vinicola Botter, founded in 1928.
Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is one of Italy's most famous wines. This classic, well-rounded, plum-scented Italian red is made from Montepulciano grapes grown in the Abruzzo region, on Italy's Adriatic coast.
Riserva a Montepulciano d'Abruzzo wine must spend at least three years aging (at least six months of which must be in oak) before being released to the market. These wines have the ability to age exceptionally well.
1 x Tenimenti Mancini - Chianti Podere Della Filandra (Organic) 2020 ~ Chianti, Italy
Bronze - Decanter World Wine Awards
The Winemaker "Intense and clean to the nose, it opens with very intense floral scents that are prolonged with an aroma of fresh red fruits. In the mouth, it is the soft, good sensation of warmth balanced by perfect freshness. The tannins are young but pleasant and well balanced by the body and freshness. Good olfactory taste persistence, after swallowing the aromas of red fruits immediately return."
100% Sangiovese
The winemaking history of the Mancini family begins at the end of the nineteenth century with the construction of the first winery in San Polo and the cultivation of the first vineyards of the Podere Della Filandra. This continues with the subsequent acquisitions of the Tenute di Campriano and Muciafora, the most recent property. As early as 1926, the family became involved in the production of Chianti doc.
The Chianti region is located in Tuscany, that romantic area of central Italy known for its sweeping landscapes, burning hot sun and its wealth of art and food history. Like most other wines made in the Old World, Chianti derives its name not from the grape used to make the wine, which is Sangiovese, but from the region where it is made.
For a Chianti to be a Chianti, it must be produced in the Chianti region and be made from at least 80% Sangiovese grapes. While most Chiantis are 100% Sangiovese, some winemakers in the region like to blend the Sangiovese with a little Cabernet, Merlot or Syrah to soften the finish of the wine.
1 x Botter Prosecco Extra Dry NV - Veneto Italy
Commended - International Wine Challenge 2018
Silver - International Wine & Spirit Competition 2018
Bronze - International Wine & Spirit Competition 2017
Commended - International Wine Challenge 2016
Bronze - International Wine & Spirit Competition 2016
Commended - International Wine Challenge 2014
Bronze - International Wine & Spirit Competition 2014
Gold - Mundus Vini 2014
Bronze - International Wine Challenge 2013
Jancis Robinson "Pear juice, lemon, off dry. Functional, fine."
Falstaff Magazine "Filigree nose with elegant nuances of white flowers and a hint of wet stone."
Casa Vinicola Botter is a multi-awarded Italian wine producer. The company was founded in 1928 as a small business selling local Veneto wines in barrels. After World War II, it moved onto bottled wine and began to export internationally. Botter is now managed by the third generation of the family. Botter owns two wine estates; including Divici a winery with 100 hectares (250 acres) of organic vineyards in the hills around Treviso. These are planted with a range of classic Veneto varieties such as Corvina, although the initial focus has been on an organic Prosecco.
Wine Spectator - 'Sparkling Success' "Prosecco has brought Italian sparkling wine to the forefront of the wine world. Prosecco has almost become a byword to mean any sparkling wine. In reality, Prosecco DOC, the most widely available example from the region, is specifically the product of vineyards that span a large swath of approximately 70,000 acres through the Veneto and Friuli–Venezia-Giulia regions. The soft, creamy texture and approachable structure that people love is the result of the Charmat production method, and the pretty floral and peach flavors typical to the wine are characteristics of the area's native Glera grape, Prosecco's dominant variety."
Veneto is a substantial and increasingly important wine region in the northeastern corner of Italy. Veneto is slightly smaller than Italy's other main wine-producing regions – Piedmont, Tuscany, Lombardy, Puglia and Sicily however it generates more wine than any of them. Although the southern regions Sicily and Puglia were for a long time Italy's main wine producers, this balance began to shift north towards Veneto in the latter half of the 20th Century. In the 1990s, southern Italian wine languished in an increasingly competitive and demanding world, while Veneto upped its game, gaining recognition with such wines as Valpolicella, Amarone, Soave and Prosecco.
Glera is a long-standing synonym of northern Italy's Prosecco grape, and the name by which it is now officially known. This green-skinned variety has been grown for hundreds of years in the Veneto and Friuli regions, most famously to produce sparkling Prosecco wines.
1 x Collosorbo 'Rosso di Montalcino' Sangiovese 2019 - Tuscany, Italy
93/100 James Suckling (2016 vintage)
90/100 Robert Parker ~ Wine Advocate (2016 vintage)
Montepulciano d’Abruzzo
James Suckling "Offers more concentration on the nose with mostly notes of blackberry pie, plum cake and even some Christmas pudding. On the palate, the fruit is melded beautifully with chewy yet tight tannins and taut acidity. Great stuff for what it is." (2016 vintage)
Robert Parker "The 2016 Rosso di Montalcino opens to a bright ruby colour with purple highlights. The wine is youthful and bright in personality with a full load of plump cherry and ripe blackberry. You also get hints of spice, crushed mineral and balsam herb to round off the bouquet. The mouthfeel is rich, generous and nicely structured. This is an excellent value buy (55,000 bottles were made).” (2016 vintage)
The Winemaker "A traditional, fresh velvety wine, Rosso di Montalcino comes from the Estate’s best vineyards, the same that produce Brunello. It is made from 100% Sangiovese with persistent, fruity aromas and considerable structure. This is a very versatile wine suitable for average periods of aging." (2016 vintage)
The Tenuti di Collosorbo has been owned by the Ciacci family since 1850. The first bottle of Brunello di Montalcino was made in 1966 by Giuseppe Ciacci, a progenitor of the first of the three generations of this winery. Now Giovanna Ciacci and her daughters, oenologist Laura and agronomist, Lucia Sutera Sardo, operate the vineyard and winery, assisted by esteemed oenologist Paolo Caciorgna and cellar master, Daniele Guidotti, who has been in charge of the Tenuta's winery for more than twenty years and is considered one of the family.
The region of Rosso di Montalcino is found in the same defined area as its bigger brother, the Brunello di Montalcino DOCG. Both are situated in the heart of Tuscany, in central Italy. This DOC was created in 1984 in order to make the most of the fruit from younger vines of new plantings. The idea was to create a fresher style of wine that needed considerably less ageing time (one year with only six months in oak) than its sibling.
Sangiovese (or Nielluccio in Corsica), a dark-berried vine, is the most widely planted grape variety in Italy. Virtually synonymous with the red wines of Tuscany, and all the romanticism that goes with the territory, Sangiovese is the core constituent in some of the great names in Italian wine. Italy's love affair with Sangiovese – and indeed the world's – is generations old, though recent grapevine research suggests the variety is not as ancient as once thought.
1 x Renato Ratti Langue Nebbiolo 'Ochetti' 2020 - Piedmont, Italy
91/100 Decanter (2019 vintage)
91/100 Robert Parker (2019 vintage)
89/100 Wine Spectator (2019 vintage)
90/100 James Suckling (2018 vintage)
90/100 Robert Parker (2018 vintage)
88/100 Wine Spectator (2018 vintage)
90/100 Cellar Tracker (2018 vintage)
92/100 James Suckling (2017 vintage)
90/100 Robert Parker (2017 vintage)
89/100 Cellar Tracker (2017 vintage)
92/100 James Suckling (2016 vintage)
92/100 Wine Spectator (2016 vintage)
92/100 James Suckling (2016 vintage)
92/100 Wine Spectator (2016 vintage)
91/100 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (2016 vintage)
16/20 Jancis Robinson (2015 vintage)
Bronze Medal - The TEXSOM International Wine Awards 2021 (2018 vintage)
Bronze Medal - The TEXSOM International Wine Awards 2020 (2018 vintage)
Decanter: "This version of Langhe Nebbiolo named Ochetti, is an historical wine for Ratti, as they have been producing it for 50 years. The grapes are sourced primarily from the sandy soils of the Roero district, where the tannins of Nebbiolo are much more rounded upon release. 2019 was a powerful year with ideal ripeness. Medium-full on the palate; aromas of fresh red cherry, rosemary and pink roses, with very good acidity and impressive persistence- Drinking Window 2022 - 2032.” (2019 vintage)
Robert Parker: "Softly pliant and silky, the Renato Ratti 2019 Langhe Nebbiolo Ochetti shows fine and nuanced detailing with lots of genuine and delicate character of the grape. The fruit is subtle in this wine, but the bouquet affords more room to crushed stone, blue flower and powdered licorice. The wine's finely shaped texture would work next to a simple plate of egg noodles and grated Parmigiano. Production is an impressive 100,000 bottles.” (2019 vintage)
The Winemaker: "Renato Ratti Nebbiolo Ochetti is an elegant and fragrant red, ruby red in color. The nose expresses a fine and persistent bouquet with hints reminiscent of wild strawberries and raspberries. In the mouth, it is pleasantly bitter, velvety, light and full at the same time. Perfect in combination with skewered and grilled red meats, game, fondue with truffles, agnolotti, traditional white and red meat dishes enriched with spicy sauces." (2019 vintage)
James Suckling: "A fresh, clean nebbiolo with candied cherries, watermelon and some citrus. Medium body. Crisp finish. Serve slightly chilled. Drink now.” (2018 vintage)
Robert Parker: "Here's another bottle in the little solider series from this estate in La Morra. Each bottle in this group depicts an old military uniform on its front label. The Renato Ratti 2018 Langhe Nebbiolo Ochetti is a very fragrant and light expression. The wine reveals wild berry and tangy forest fruit with some bitter almond and a good dose of camphor ash or licorice that builds some nice complexity into the bouquet.” (2018 vintage)
Wine Spectator: “ Aromas of Mediterranean scrub augment the cherry, raspberry and floral notes in this agile red. Its flavors are delicate, yet there is nothing subtle about the resonant tannins. Fine balance and length. Drink now through . 8,333 cases made, 5,400 cases imported. — BS” (2018 vintage)
James Suckling: "Intense nose of dried lavender, raspberry coulis, tamarind and spice box. Round and generous on the palate with a layered approach to the blue fruit and tangy acidity to boot. Always a top nebbiolo. Drink now.” (2017 vintage)
Robert Parker: "This is a delightfully fresh and buoyant red wine with lots of dark fruit definition. The fruit for the 2017 Langhe Nebbiolo Ochetti comes from the Roero zone and its light, sandy soils. Here, you get the delicate berry tones of Nebbiolo with a bit more heft and heat from the warm vintage. Production is 90,000 bottles strong.” (2017 vintage)
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate - "Here's a great value wine. The wine offers tangy and rich fruit with wild berry and red rose aromas. The primary fruit is intense and rich, much more so than your average Langhe Nebbiolo. This wine shows extreme varietal purity with good power and momentum. If you are in the mood for Nebbiolo but don't want the formality of a Barolo, this wine is a great choice. It sees one year of oak aging." (2016 vintage)
James Suckling - "Shows much more intensity of fruit than most with fruit tea, hibiscus, citrus and raspberry cheesecake, as well as a touch of cloves and vanilla. Medium body, a sturdy frame of firm tannins and a juicy finish." (2016 vintage)
Wine Spectator - "Offering a mix of bright cherry, black currant, savory mineral and wild herb aromas and flavors, this is both lively and dense. Strikes a fine balance between all the elements, ending in a resonant aftertaste." (2016 Vintage)
Renato Ratti is a wine producer located in Barolo in northwestern Italy. It makes a wide range of wines from a number of Piedmont DOC and DOCG appellations, including Barolo, Dolcetto d'Alba, Barbera d'Alba, Barbera d'Asti and Monferrato. Renato Ratti spent time in Brazil producing Vermouth and sparkling wines before returning to his home in Piedmont in 1965. He purchased his first vineyard in the La Morra area and began making wines labelled with his own name. Along with the standard Nebbiolo, Ratti also grows Barbera, Dolcetto, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc.
Renato Ratti makes three single-vineyard Barolos, from the Marcenasco, Conca and Rocche dell Annunziata cru vineyards. These are the top offerings from the estate and can be cellared for up to 20 years. Along with the range of classic Piedmont wines from Alba and Asti, Ratti also makes a varietal Sauvignon Blanc wine called I Cedri and a blend of Barbera, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot called Villa Pattono, both of which are labelled under the Monferrato DOC.
8Wines: "The Ratti family are true Nebbiolo experts and have been working this land since the 1960s when Renato Ratti returned home from working in Brazil to pursue his dream of making his own wine. He purchased his first vineyard close to the Abbey of L’Annunziata in La Morra and became a pioneer in the Barolo region, making one of the area’s first single-vineyard wines and creating detailed maps of Barolo’s historical crus."
Barolo is a traditional hillside village in the rolling hills of Piedmont, northwestern Italy. The vineyards and wineries there have long been famous for producing some of Italy's very finest red wines – predominantly from the region's signature grape variety, Nebbiolo.
Nebbiolo is the grape variety behind the top-quality red wines of Piedmont, northwestern Italy, the most notable of which are Barolo and Barbaresco. Nebbiolo wines are distinguished by their strong tannins, high acidity and distinctive scent – often described as "tar and roses". They also tend to lose color. Within just a few years of vintage, most Nebbiolo wines begin fading from deep, violet-tinged ruby to a beautiful brick orange.
1 x Giacomo Montresor - Castello di Soave 2021 ~ Veneto, Italy
Bronze - Wine Enthusiast
Bronze - CellarTracker (2020 vintage)
Commended - Wine Enthusiast (2020 vintage)
Bronze - Wine Enthusiast (2019 vintage)
Bronze - Wine Enthusiast (2018 vintage)
Wine Enthusiast "The shy nose eventually reveals suggestions of hay and acacia. The palate is on the lean side, showing toasted notes, honey and beeswax but not much fruit richness. It closes on a bitter note."
Wine Enthusiast "This simple white has subtle aromas of tropical fruit and citrus. Reflecting the nose, the rather diluted, easygoing palate offers banana, grapefruit and candied notes before a rather bitter close. " (2020 vintage)
The Winemaker ".....full-bodied, fine aromatic persistence. Delicate and fruity aroma with hints of apple and acacia." (2017 vintage)
The Montresor family are prominent Italian winemakers, with their roots in the establishment of the wine industry in France. In the 16th century the family moved from Chateau Montresor in the Loire valley to Verona, Italy acquiring lands and estates and establishing viniculture in the region. In the second half of the 19th century, the family started selling the wines under the family name. Within a century they had established a reputational as an internationally acclaimed estate.
The story of the family, outside of their involvement in wine is fascinating. The count Claude de Montresor had a prominent position during Cardinal Richelieu reign, taking part in the political events as prime counsellor of Duke d’Orleans, the cousin of the King. Interesting also is the Montresor family's mentioned in Edgar A. Poe's famous tale 'The Amontillado Cask', where a member of the Montresor family is described as "a premium wine connoisseur with an excellent palate".
The Soave Blend refers to the combination of Garganega and Trebbiano di Soave (or Verdicchio) that make up Soave DOC wines, arguably one of Italy's most famous white wines. This crisp and fruity white wine, made mostly in the Venetian hills near Verona, is now enjoyed around the world, offering a simple and refreshing wine experience.
Soave Classico wines are produced under the Soave DOC of Veneto, north-eastern Italy, specifically from Soave's traditional classico vineyard zone. They are dry, still white wines made predominantly (at least 70%) from Garganega grapes. In the past decade Trebbiano Toscano and Pinot Bianco have been removed from the official makeup of Soave wines, leaving Chardonnay and Trebbiano di Soave (Verdicchio) as the only other grapes specifically sanctioned for use in the wines.
1 x Reguta Di Anselmi Ca’Stele Pinot Grigio 2022 ~ Friuli Latisana, Italy
Bronze - Decanter World Wine Awards (2014 vintage)
Bronze - CellarTracker (2008 Vintage)
The Winemaker "Velvety, dry, soft, well-balanced on palate. It is ideal as an aperitif or enjoyed with seafood or light food."
The Anselmi family's Ca'stella Pinot Grugio is a stunning Pinot Grigio certified for its quality and the region from which it prevails.
The Anselmi family established their vineyard and winery in the 1920’s, acquiring a small estate in the north east of Italy in the Fruili region. The vineyard is located on the coast and enjoys warm days and a cooling effect in the evenings. The family winery is now run by brothers Guiseppe and Lugi Anselmi who use traditional techniques to create aromatic and flavoursome wines.
Northeastern Italy (Veneto, Friuli-Venezia-Giulia and Trentino-Alto Adige) remains the world epicenter of Pinot Grigio production.
Friuli Grave (or Grave del Friuli) is a DOC covering a large area of land in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, between the Alps and the Adriatic sea. The region's combination of soil, climate and situation make for excellent wines, and viticulture here dates back to Roman times.
The region extends from the Adriatic coast northeast of Veneto. Watercourses are of particular importance to the terroir of Friuli Latisana.
Pinot Grigio is more than just the Italian name for Pinot Gris. The names are often used interchangeably and although the same grape, the varietals differ in characteristics as well as reputation.
The more refreshing Pinot Grigio style has enjoyed great success in various countries, most recently the United States, (where it is fondly nicknamed "Greej") and Australia. The most common descriptors of the style are "light", "crisp" and "dry". These characteristics are complemented by aroma notes citing lemon, green apple and blossoms.
The Grigio style is achieved by harvesting the grapes relatively early, in an attempt to retain as much fresh acidity as possible; the variety is naturally quite low in acidity. To retain freshness and "zing", fermentation and storage typically take place in stainless-steel tanks.
1 x Tor del Colle Riserva 2019 ~ Montepulciano d' Abruzzo, Italy
Bronze - International Wine Challenge (2007 vintage)
Silver - Vinalies Internationales (2006 vintage)
The Winemaker "Dry and herbaceous on the palate. Full-bodied and balanced. Intense, vinous bouquet with an immediate cherry flavor changing to notes of blackberries and licorice."
Tor del Colle is produced by the family-owned winery Casa Vinicola Botter, founded in 1928.
Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is one of Italy's most famous wines. This classic, well-rounded, plum-scented Italian red is made from Montepulciano grapes grown in the Abruzzo region, on Italy's Adriatic coast.
Riserva a Montepulciano d'Abruzzo wine must spend at least three years aging (at least six months of which must be in oak) before being released to the market. These wines have the ability to age exceptionally well.
1 x Tenimenti Mancini - Chianti Podere Della Filandra (Organic) 2020 ~ Chianti, Italy
Bronze - Decanter World Wine Awards
The Winemaker "Intense and clean to the nose, it opens with very intense floral scents that are prolonged with an aroma of fresh red fruits. In the mouth, it is the soft, good sensation of warmth balanced by perfect freshness. The tannins are young but pleasant and well balanced by the body and freshness. Good olfactory taste persistence, after swallowing the aromas of red fruits immediately return."
100% Sangiovese
The winemaking history of the Mancini family begins at the end of the nineteenth century with the construction of the first winery in San Polo and the cultivation of the first vineyards of the Podere Della Filandra. This continues with the subsequent acquisitions of the Tenute di Campriano and Muciafora, the most recent property. As early as 1926, the family became involved in the production of Chianti doc.
The Chianti region is located in Tuscany, that romantic area of central Italy known for its sweeping landscapes, burning hot sun and its wealth of art and food history. Like most other wines made in the Old World, Chianti derives its name not from the grape used to make the wine, which is Sangiovese, but from the region where it is made.
For a Chianti to be a Chianti, it must be produced in the Chianti region and be made from at least 80% Sangiovese grapes. While most Chiantis are 100% Sangiovese, some winemakers in the region like to blend the Sangiovese with a little Cabernet, Merlot or Syrah to soften the finish of the wine.