Antica Torino Amaro della Sacra is a bitter liqueur that is made using a blend of herbs, roots, and spices. It is produced in the Piedmont region of Italy, where it has been a popular drink for over a century. The liqueur has a deep amber color and a complex flavor profile that is both bitter and sweet. It is often enjoyed as an after-dinner digestif, and is said to aid in digestion. The recipe for Antica Torino Amaro della Sacra is a closely guarded secret, but it is known to contain ingredients such as gentian root, wormwood, and orange peel. The liqueur is typically served neat or on the rocks, and can also be used as a cocktail ingredient.

We don’t often think about Nebbiolo outside of Barolo or Barbaresco, but the northern region of Gattinara is a quality region growing points-worthy Spanna, as it is known here. Elegant with aromas and flavours of dried roses, raspberry jam and hints of toasted nuts and vanilla. If you’ve never tried Nebbiolo from Northern Piemonte, this is a good place to start. 

Fermata 125 Etna Rosso DOC greets the eye with an attractive pale ruby colour, then pleases with delicate scents of red berry, such as wild strawberry, and warm, enfolding spice notes. The palate is built upon tangy, rich fruit, fine-grained, glossy tannins, and a lengthy finish.

Terrano is one of the few red grapes of the Carso region, and much rarer than its Tazzelenghe or Schioppettino counterparts. Yet, the quality is unmistakable as the grape expresses the terroir very well. In fact, the grape name means “red earth” due to the soil it’s grown in. There is a certain Barbera-like quality to the crunchy, earth-tinged red fruits and the bright, zingy acidity of the wine, yet there is more finesse and purity. Fresh herbs and red licorice on the palate add complexity, and the concentration is surprising given its exceedingly modest alcohol level, typically never exceeding 12.5% alcohol. A unique wine, but well suited to the North American palate. 

This IGT Toscana Bianco white wine from Tuscany, Italy, blends Malvasia Bianca, Trebbiano, and Chardonnay from the I Colli Estate, located in Monteriggioni and Vagliagli, part of the Bindi Sergardi family’s historic estate, founded in the late 1400s. With a white paper color and golden reflections, it offers an intense bouquet of peach, melon, and pear. On the palate, it’s fresh, savory, and well-balanced with good acidity, fermented and aged in stainless steel to maintain its vibrant character.

Bisci is synonymous with Verdicchio, being crafted in the mountain area of Matelica and staying true to the terroir giving wines that are more austere and higher in acidity. This is a great wine of typicity with a nose full of green and yellow apple, Anjou pear, yellow flowers, even hints of pineapple but still with the mineral nuances, and even a flinty petrol. On the palate that lees ageing was evident as it was very textural and almost tannic, which lends itself to a full bodied wine. More flavours of yellow apple and pear, great minerality and of course, bitter almond. If one is looking to try Verdicchio for the first time, this is a good place to start!

The family owns 18 hectares between La Morra, Serralunga d'Alba, Monforte d'Alba, including 4 Barolo Cru's: R56 (Brandini), Annunziata, Meriame, Cerretta. Annunziata is a Cru with a 6200 bottle production. The wine is elegant, yet with great concentration. Notes of red fruits, roses and sweet tobacco on the nose, with a silky, refined tannic finish.

The family owns 18 hectares between La Morra, Serralunga d'Alba, Monforte d'Alba, including 4 Barolo Cru's: R56 (Brandini), Annunziata, Meriame and Cerretta. This Barolo is elegant and refined with notes of red fruit, floral notes and even a hint of mint. Being from La Morra makes it approachable even now. Gorgeous

Made with grapes grown following biodynamic principles and fermented with wild yeasts, this earthy rosato has aromas of sunbaked soil, eucalyptus and ripe berries. The dry, savory palate is equally earthy, doling out strawberry compote, ripe red cherry, baking spice and black olive alongside tangy acidity. It's loaded with personality. Kerin O'Keefe

Canella is a third-generation winery located in the hills of Conegliano in the Veneto region. It was they who pioneered the rise of Prosecco to the popularity it is today. A true Bellini is made with three parts sparkling wine, one-part white peach juice and just a few drops of raspberry juice for its signature salmon colour. This ready-to-drink Bellini was created for the North American market in mind. The separation is natural; blend together gently, pour, sip and repeat. A perfect addition to any brunch!

This super-interesting blend from Liguria is made from Sangiovese, Merlot and the rarely seen Pollera Nera, native to Liguria. The wine is very aromatic, perfumed with wild berries, fresh herbs and dried flowers. The vibrant palate highlights classic Sangiovese tart-cherry notes and lively acidity. Merlot contributes a softer edge while the Pollera Nera adds background notes of herbs and spice.

"Aromas of fragrant blue flowers mingle with perfumed berries and roasted coffee bean in this plush red. The supple palate reflects the nose, offering fleshy black cherry, star anise and espresso alongside velvety, fine-grained tannins. Drink through 2028. Kerin O’Keefe" - 92/100, Wine Enthusiast

Chianti DOCG Riserva Castello di Oliveto is a premium red wine produced in the Chianti region of Tuscany, Italy. This wine is made from a blend of Sangiovese, Canaiolo, and other local grape varieties, which are carefully selected and handpicked from the vineyards surrounding the Castello di Oliveto estate. The wine is aged for at least two years in oak barrels, which gives it a complex and rich flavor profile. It has a deep ruby color and aromas of ripe red fruits, spices, and vanilla. On the palate, it is full-bodied with a firm tannic structure and a long, persistent finish. This wine is best enjoyed with hearty meat dishes, such as roasted lamb or beef, and aged cheeses.

The rose petal and cherry character really come through. Full body, layered and spicy. Orange peel. Flavorful finish. Shows structure and intensity. I love the texture.

Grignolino is a rare grape variety hailing from Monferatto in Piemonte. Lighter than nebbiolo and more tannic, it is a love it or hate it wine, but very unique and worth trying a a glass! Fermented and aged in stainless steel, it’s light garnet red in the glass, with perfumed aromas of wild strawberry, cranberry, maraschino cherry, raspberries, rose petals, white pepper, and a hint of leather. Don't let the light colour fool you: it is high in tannins, yet high acidity and mouthwateringly fresh.

The Fiano di Avellino is grown on the Irpinia hills, where the peculiar microclimate lends the wine notes of toasted hazelnuts and soft dried fruit. The acidity adds an extra splash of personality and makes it the perfect choice for pairing with soups, seafood and your favourite white meat dishes.

Although the Upper Valdarno in Tuscany, where the winery is located is steeped in history, the young owners of Meca and Rocco are a brother and sister team with a combined age of just over 40 years old. Originally from Calabria where they learned the land, agriculture inthe toe of Italy's boot is difficult, so the family decide to pursue opportunities in Tuscany. They produce olive oil and and vegetables along with wine, all farmed organically. The Vertigine is made with 100% Canaiolo, typically a blending grape for Chianti and Chianti Classico wines. This comes from their youngest vineyard, hand picke and hand selected for a finished wine that is juicy, fresh, with lots of pretty red fruit of cherry and raspberry. A unique and lovely wine.

The Colpetrone Antica Chiusina Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is a full-bodied red wine that offers intense aromas of dark fruit, leather, and spice. On the palate, it is rich and complex with flavors of black cherry, blackberry, and plum, as well as notes of tobacco and oak. The tannins are firm yet well integrated, providing structure and balance to the wine. This is a wine that can be enjoyed now, but will also age beautifully over the next several years.

Although 2017 was not a vintage for the ages, excellent winemakers will still create beautiful wines from hand selected grapes. Jessica Pellegrini is a minimalist, using indigenous yeast and "hands-off" winemaking. Like the 2015, it is true to the Sangiovese variety with an expressive nose of cherry, fresh Italian herbs, and tomato leaf. Serve with tomato based pasta dishes like Bolognese or Lasagne.

Franz Haas Lagrein DOC is a red wine produced in the Valle Isarco subregion of Alto Adige, Italy, by the Franz Haas winery. Made entirely from the Lagrein grape variety, the wine exhibits a deep ruby red color with purple hues. On the nose, it offers aromas of ripe dark berries, such as blackberries and blueberries, as well as notes of spices, such as black pepper and cloves. On the palate, it is full-bodied and well-structured with fine tannins and a pleasant acidity, with flavors of dark fruit, chocolate and coffee. The wine has a persistent finish with a slightly bitter aftertaste. It can be paired with roasted meat dishes, game, and aged cheeses.

Intense purple colour, hints in the scent of red fruit and spices one of which, black pepper, stands out. In the mouth it is pleasant tasting, mineral, nervous with intense and characteristic tannins.

The region of Gavi is home to the Cortese grape. The philosophy of the farm is to ensure the vines are farmed without any use of chemicals. Only healthy and carefully selected grapes are gently pressed. This wine offers a particularly fine mineral feeling and notes of fruit and white flowers. On the palate the wine is lively, harmonious, with a fresh acidity, which increases its persistence and drinkability. This will be a fine choice for vegetable dishes and fresh salads.

It has a deep ruby color and aromas of dark fruit, spices, and vanilla. On the palate, it is full-bodied with firm tannins and a long finish. This wine is best paired with hearty meat dishes, such as grilled steak or roasted lamb. Overall, LE MONDE INACO RISERVA REFOSCO 2019 is a high-quality wine that showcases the unique characteristics of the Refosco grape and the terroir of Friuli-Venezia Giulia.

A beautiful pink aperitif wine from a winery that was started in Italy's Friuli region in 1970. With notes of raspberries, redcurrants and flowers, it is a perfect pairing for a charcuterie platter, scallops or prawns. Made from the Pinot Noir grape. Serve chilled.

Exhibiting pure elegance, Potazzine Rosso di Montalcino unfurls gradually, initially presenting notes of red plum and dusty rose. With some gentle coaxing, it reveals violet florals, cedar, and crushed stone aromas that come to the forefront. The palate is captivated by a dynamic blend of succulent wild berries and contrasting saline mineral undertones, all complemented by a refreshing acidity. A lingering interplay of citrus and cranberry adds a delightful tension, leaving a pleasant pinch on the cheeks and enticing the taste buds for more, while gentle fine tannins slowly emerge, providing a delicate coating. This wine is truly stunning, but it is advisable to decant it or cellar it for the next five to eight years to fully appreciate its beauty.

Complex wine fermented in barriques for 40% of the grapes. Very intense straw yellow colour. The nose is lively with balsamic notes and aromas of woody resins. Remarkable notes of ripe fruit such as apple, pear, papaya, and then honey, wet stone and spices. Full and vigorous, with great structure. Enjoy it in a large glass.

Pairs well with: Fish

Campania's favourite winemaker, Mastroberardino's entry level white is a blend of four native varieties: Coda di Volpe, Greco, Fiano and Falanghina. The nose recalls fresh flowers, pineapple, peach and citrus fruits, while on the palate, good freshness with balanced acidity and notes of citrus and exotic fruit.

Neroametà emerges from the white vinification of the Aglianico grape, showcasing an age-old family vision that highlights the exceptional adaptability of this venerable vine. This wine is a homage both to the varietal heritage of the black Aglianico grape, which reveals a distinctive elegance when vinified in white, and to the wine's geographical and cultural roots, reflecting the harmony and contrast of its landscape. It features an elegant bouquet, rich in expansive and intricate floral notes, including lily of the valley and citrus, seamlessly integrated with subtle fruity and mineral nuances. On the palate, it presents a fresh, savory, and bold profile, leading to an intense mineral-laced finish, encapsulating its refined complexity and depth.

Custoza in the hills of Lake Garda, is the region where the village of Del Fra is situated. The Magro vineyard is small and over 30 years old where this field blend of Garganega, Trebbiano Toscana, Cortese and Incrocio Manzoni come together to make this aromatic, intense, fruit-packed wine full of apple, pear, stone fruits, tropical fruit aromas along with a textural palate of wet stones and honey. Outstanding!

Negro Amaro, a black grape grown in Puglia, the heel of Italy's boot, is often misspelled: unlike what is seen on many labels, it is two distinct words and should be written that way. Wines made with negro amaro are always dense, thick with blackberry, black cherry, licorice with clove and cocoa accents. Tenuta del Pajaru is Certified organic, using only natural yeasts and non-intervention winemaking, the wines express their sense of place. Get a mouthful of blackberry jam, spice and chocolate, pair this wine with strong cheese and hearty meat stews.

From one of the only wineries located within the Parco Nazionale, this is the top wine of the Pasetti line. With six years of ageing combined with stainless steel, new oak and in bottle, this intense, complex, full-bodied wine is a stunning example of ripe red cherry, and plum, accompanied by hints of violet and dried red flowers. Further flavours of stewed cherries, plums, spice, licorice and coffee that gives great complexity, structure, depth and elegance. A truly fascinating wine.

From the Bolgheri DOC, the Poggio Al Tesoro is owned by the Allegrini family of Valpolicella fame. The Sondraia is the flagship wine made with a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc. Full bodied and intense with aromas and flavours of black currant, blackberry and spice, it's an excellent accompaniment to grilled meats and wild game.

The Vino Nobile di Montepulciano from the Asinone vineyard is the flagship wine of Poliziano. After years of continual experimentation, this particular vineyard was identified as the one with the best quality potential. Asinone is well ventilated and has poor soil that gives the Sangiovese just the right vigor. Though Vino Nobile requires only 70% Sangiovese in the blend, this wine uses 95% to showcase the excellence of the Prugnolo Gentile (Sangiovese) from this vineyard.

From the Veneto region, international grape varieties thrive, especially Cabernet Franc. The Savian winery is a family owend winery in the Lison Pramaggiore region fo Veneto, in operation since 1925. They received their organic certification in 1993. The company owns seven brands, and the Quota 7 line is also biodynamic. This Cabernet Franc is full bodied with juicy black fruit, herbs and hints of earth. Super drinkable and will pair well with grilled meats, and the price point is undeniable!

On the nose, it has aromas of dark fruit, vanilla, and spice, while on the palate, it is full-bodied with flavors of black cherry, plum, and tobacco. The tannins are firm and well-structured, providing a long and elegant finish. This wine is a perfect pairing for hearty meat dishes, such as grilled steak or roasted lamb.

Mocha, blue flower, menthol and forest berry aromas lift out of the glass. Firmly structured but elegant, the linear palate exhibits pomegranate, wild strawberry, star anise and white pepper alongside a backbone of fine-grained tannins and racy acidity. Drink 2029–2044. Kerin O’Keefe

This is a red wine from the Piedmont region of Italy. Made from Nebbiolo, this wine has an intense nose with aromas of rose, dried fruit and blackberry, with notes of spice, mint, cardamom and minerals, a firm structure, a rich mouthfeel, firm tannins and a long, lingering finish.