Italian Wine

Winemaker Description 

Castello dei Rampolla d'Alceo is a premium, proprietary blend of Cabernet and Petit Verdot grapes exclusively from the renowned Panzano in Chianti region of Tuscany. This organic and biodynamic red is sure to tantalize your taste buds with its complex bouquet and flavor profile.

Expert Reviews - VIntage 2009

Vinous 96 Points | The 2009 d'Alceo comes across as much more classic in style and structure than the 2008. According to Luca di Napoli, the trick to 2009 was harvesting on the early side. Freshly cut flowers, sweet red berries, plums, mint and licorice all take shape in the glass Over the last few months, the 2009 d'Alceo has softened a bit, releasing expressive, floral aromatics, brighter shades of fruit and striking inner perfume, but it remains quite vibrant in the context of a vintage in which so many wines are quite a bit riper in style. The 2009 is a wonderfully deep, resonant d'Alceo that should offer a wide drinking window starting in a few years. It certainly looks like Rampolla nailed the vintage.  Drinking 2019 - 2039.

Antonio Galloni, 96+ | My absolute favorite wine of 2022 was a bottle of the Castello dei Rampolla 2006 d'Alceo that I had the good fortune to drink at dinner during a work event in Tuscany last year. I remember the wine vividly, and if I were to review it again, it would certainly merit a perfect score. With that profound inspiration in mind, I feel especially optimistic toward this outstanding group of new releases from Maurizia di Napoli and her talented team. This historic estate has farmed according to organic and biodynamic methods since 1994, making it one of the first in Italy to do so. In truth, I have found some inconsistencies along the way over the many years I have reviewed and adored these wines. Such is the magic of artisanal winemaking. But thanks to that memory of that 2006 d'Alceo, I remain in awe of Castello dei Rampolla today. 

Bramito Della Sala Chardonnay — Castello della Sala, Umbria, Italy 2024

Castello della Sala is one of Italy's most storied white wine estates — a magnificent medieval fortress set in the hills of Umbria, just 18 kilometers from Orvieto, where the Antinori family has spent decades proving that Italy can produce world-class Chardonnay. Bramito Della Sala is the estate's benchmark white: a pure, elegant expression of Chardonnay grown on the estate's high-altitude vineyards, fermented in stainless steel to preserve freshness and precision. Wine Enthusiast awarded the 2024 vintage 93 points, praising its perfect balance between richness and restraint. At $25.99, it is one of the most exciting values in Italian white wine.

The nose is inviting and complex: baked apple, hazelnut brittle, crème fraîche, and wet stones. On the palate, generous fruit meets mineral tension in a seamless, structured mid-palate, leading to a refreshing, tart finish that is clean and long. This is Chardonnay that finds the rare sweet spot between Old World restraint and New World generosity — and it delivers every time.

Wine Enthusiast 93 — "Baked apples and hazelnut brittle weave through notes of crème fraîche and wet stones. The palate delivers substance with style, where generous fruit meets mineral tension and a refreshing tart finish. Here’s Chardonnay finding perfect balance between richness and restraint." (Vintage 2024).

• Producer: Castello della Sala (Antinori), Umbria, Italy
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Umbria IGT
• Varietal: Chardonnay
• Vinification: Stainless steel fermentation
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Baked apple, hazelnut, crème fraîche, wet stone, mineral tension, tart finish
• Best Paired With: Grilled fish, lobster, roast chicken, risotto, soft cheeses, pasta with cream sauce

A 93-point Umbrian Chardonnay at an honest price — Bramito Della Sala is the benchmark for what Castello della Sala and Italian white wine can be.

Castello di Bossi | Chianti Classico Gran Selezione | Organic | 2020

Gran Selezione is the apex of the Chianti Classico pyramid — a single-vineyard or best-barrel selection aged a minimum of 30 months before release. Castello di Bossi's 2020 version is a textbook example of why this category matters. Sourced from the estate's southern Gaiole in Chianti holdings and certified organic, it spent 24 months in large 40–50HL casks — a deliberate choice that preserves Sangiovese's aromatic lift while building structure without over-oaking. The 2020 vintage delivered warm, even ripening across Tuscany, and Bossi channeled that richness into a wine of explosive intensity and remarkable finesse. Deep ruby with garnet lights, it opens with black cherry, plum, cedar, sweet spice, dark chocolate, and a whisper of saddle leather. The palate is fleshy and dense, yet balanced, with a very pronounced, lingering finish. Drink now with confidence, or cellar through 2034.

• Appellation: Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG, Tuscany, Italy
• Varietal: Sangiovese
• Vintage: 2020
• Format: 750ml
• Aging: 24 months in 40–50HL large casks
• Certification: Certified Organic
• Drink Window: Now – 2034

Critical Acclaim — Vintage 2020

Vinous — Antonio Galloni | 92 Points: Gorgeous. Floral, lifted and quite expressive, the 2020 has a lot to offer. It marries the richness of this southern district with lovely aromatic presence and a good bit of brightness. A complete, deeply satisfying wine to drink now and over the next decade or so. Drink 2024–2034.

Pairing Suggestions

• Classic Tuscan: Bistecca alla Fiorentina, wild boar ragù, or pappardelle with meat sauce.
• Meat: Roasted lamb rack, braised short ribs, or aged beef tagliata.
• Cheese: Aged Pecorino Toscano, Parmigiano-Reggiano, or a firm sheep’s milk cheese.

Castello di Bossi · Chianti Classico DOCG · 2023

From a historic estate founded in 1099 and farmed for over four decades by the Bacci family, Castello di Bossi stands as one of Chianti Classico's most trusted names. Situated just south of Siena on 600 hectares of rolling Tuscan hills, the estate is fully certified organic, powered by renewable energy, and committed to wines that speak honestly of their terroir.

The 2023 Chianti Classico Organic delivers everything you want from a great Sangiovese — deep ruby-red in color, with aromas of ripe cherries, red plums, dried flowers, and a subtle hint of toasted vanilla. The palate is superbly structured with bright acidity, silky tannins, and a long, pleasantly savory finish that lingers beautifully. Pure, expressive, and undeniably delicious.

93 Points — James Suckling
"Aromatic with dried cherries and flowers with some mint and spices. Medium-bodied with crunchy fruit and a crisp finish. Delicious. Pure Sangiovese. So delicious and real." (Vintage 2023). 

• Producer: Castello di Bossi
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Chianti Classico DOCG
• Grape Variety: Sangiovese
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Region: Tuscany, Italy
• Format: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Ripe cherries, red plums, dried flowers, toasted vanilla, bright acidity, savory finish
• Food Pairings: Grilled bistecca fiorentina, braised lamb, aged Pecorino, Tuscan ragu

A benchmark Chianti Classico at an everyday price — drink now through 2028.

Castello di Bossi — Corbaia Toscana IGT 2022

Castello di Bossi is one of the benchmark estates of Castelnuovo Berardenga, in the southern reaches of Chianti Classico, with a history stretching back to the 13th century. Corbaia — named for the vineyard of Cabernet Sauvignon planted on the estate some 42 years ago — is their flagship Super-Tuscan: a blend of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon, fermented in stainless steel and matured in Allier oak barriques. The result is a wine of superb finesse and elegance, where the structure of Cabernet and the soul of Sangiovese find a natural equilibrium.

The 2022 is heady and explosive. Intense ruby-red with garnet highlights, it opens with a rush of dark fruit, new leather, blood orange, spice, and pipe tobacco — backed by jammy black currants, cherries, cassis, mocha, and vanilla. On the palate it is full-bodied yet supple, layered with rich texture and well-integrated tannins, with no hard edges and terrific balance. Pure and total sensuality, as Vinous put it — and they awarded it 95 points.

Vinous 95 — "The 2022 Corbaia is heady and explosive in the glass. A rush of dark fruit, new leather, blood orange, spice and pipe tobacco soars out of the glass. Rich yet not at all heavy, Corbaia delivers the goods. Readers will find a wine of pure and total sensuality with no hard edges and terrific balance."

• Producer: Castello di Bossi, Castelnuovo Berardenga, Tuscany, Italy
• Vintage: 2022
• Appellation: Toscana IGT (Super-Tuscan)
• Blend: Sangiovese & Cabernet Sauvignon
• Vinification: Stainless steel fermentation, Allier oak barrique aging
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Dark fruit, blood orange, leather, tobacco, cassis, mocha, vanilla, integrated tannins
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or cellar through 2035
• Best Paired With: Grilled lamb chops, ribeye steak, meats alla Diavola, Béarnaise sauces, aged Pecorino

A 95-point Super-Tuscan at $64 — Corbaia 2022 is Castello di Bossi at its most compelling.

Winemaker Description 

Straw yellow with green highlights. In true Pinot Grigio style, this wine shows delightful aromas of fresh citrus, green apple, orange blossom, and tropical fruit, with a floral hint. Medium-bodied and well-balanced, flavors of fresh tropical fruit are complemented by hints of almond.

Castello di Monsanto · Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG · 2022 · 750ml

The Producer

Some stories don't have a beginning or an end. Castello di Monsanto is one of them: a visionary family, an uncontaminated terroir in the heart of Chianti Classico, and a shared passion for wine that set a quiet revolution in motion more than 60 years ago. Aldo Bianchi started it, his son Fabrizio carried it forward with audacity and foresight at a time when Tuscany wasn't ready for change, and today Fabrizio's daughter Laura continues the work with pride and tenacity, transforming longstanding tradition into something built for tomorrow.

The Wine

One of the oldest labels in Italy and the winery's most important bottling, the Riserva is a testament to the Bianchi family's philosophy on Sangiovese, rounded out with small amounts of Canaiolo and Colorino. Expect a restrained, polished style: bright red and dark fruit, violets, licorice and savory Tuscan herbs over fine tannins and fresh acidity.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

"A restrained wine with bright and polished aromas of raspberries, red cherries, subtle mint, violets and licorice. Medium-bodied, juicy and smooth, with velvety tannins and refreshing acidity. Long finish. Drink or hold."
James Suckling, 94 points

"A dark version, sporting blackberry, blueberry, violet and tar flavors, plus a hint of wild rosemary. Ripe, this is also fresh, fluid and dense with tannins. Just a bit burly on the finish today, with fine length nonetheless. Needs time. Best from 2029 through 2045."
Wine Spectator, 93 points

Pairings & Serving

A natural partner for bistecca alla fiorentina, wild boar ragù, roast lamb, mushroom risotto and aged Pecorino. Serve at 60–64°F; decanting for an hour helps it open up in its youth.

Specs

• Producer: Castello di Monsanto
• Appellation: Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG
• Region: Tuscany, Italy
• Vintage: 2022
• Varietals: Sangiovese, Canaiolo, Colorino
• Size: 750ml

A benchmark Riserva from one of Chianti Classico's great family estates, built to drink well now and reward patience.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

Decanter 93 Points | The 2022 is a charming, elegant rendition of the vintage expressing raspberry and strawberry with snaps of coriander and allspice. Seamless in flow, the palate is underscored by sweet acid and framed by soft, silky tannins. Juicy and drinkable now but with enough grip for the next seven to eight years. A blend of the estate's parcels in the distinguished MGAs of Rabajà, Rabajà-bas and Faset, Castello di Verduno's classic Barbaresco ages in large Slavonian oak casks.

Vinous 92 Points | The 2022 Barbaresco is a gracious, classy wine that captures the essence of the house style. Crushed flowers, sweet, red-toned fruit, orange peel, spice and rose petals are some of the notes that grace this understated, sensual Barbaresco. Soft tannins add to a feeling of approachability. What a pretty and engaging wine this is.

Jeb Dunnuck 90 Points | Pouring a bright medium ruby hue, the 2022 Barbaresco opens to notes of ripe cranberries, cinnamon, orange peel, and fresh flowers. The palate retains very nice freshness in this hot, dry vintage, with refreshing acidity, ripe tannins, and a clean, medium-bodied feel with a graceful and fruity finish. It's a highly charming offering to drink over the coming 6-8 years.

Memo Summary Notes

Verduno is a small town and the histories of the wineries located there are intertwined.

The Castle of Verduno, constructed in the early 1500s, was under the jurisdiction of the House of Savoy for much of its history until the Burlotto family purchased it in 1909.

The winery's philosophy is to produce wines that speak of place in a classic way and are also sustainable and protect the land. As such, they practice organic farming and are meticulous both in the vineyard and in the cellar. Minimal SO2 and also vinifies with indigenous yeast. Their wines are firmly traditional in style though never rustic; in fact just the opposite, they retain a rare elegance and purity.

Pair with

• Traditional: Tajarin pasta with a butter and sage sauce or a rich meat ragù.

• Savory: Roast pork tenderloin, braised beef short ribs, or a wild mushroom risotto.

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2019

Wine Enthusiast 95 Points — Editors' Choice (Kerin O’Keefe) | Delicate aromas of blue flower, red berry and a hint of underbrush. Elegant and firmly structured, the savory palate offers crushed raspberry, ripe cherry and baking spice alongside taut tannins. Fresh acidity keeps it balanced. Drink 2027–2039.

Vinous 94 Points (Antonio Galloni) | Sweet red cherry, kirsch, rose petal, mint, spice, earthiness, crushed rocks and pipe tobacco — all beautifully lifted. Medium in body with compelling inner sweetness and tons of finesse. Positively stellar, and unusually for a Rabajà, it will drink well with minimal cellaring.

Decanter 92 Points | Great complexity of pot pourri, wild strawberry, cherry and licorice. Tannins are firm yet fine, bold and fleshy with energy and pep. Austere yet precise finish.

About the Wine

The Castello di Verduno Barbaresco Riserva Rabajà 2019 is a masterpiece of traditional winemaking from one of the most famous and powerful crus in Barbaresco. The Riserva is only produced in exceptional years, and the 2019 vintage in Piedmont is widely considered classic and high-structured — making this a true collector’s item with decades of life ahead.

Tasting & Pairings

Blue flower, crushed raspberry, ripe cherry, kirsch, rose petal, baking spice, earthiness, and pipe tobacco. Firmly structured with taut, fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity. Decant generously or cellar through 2039.

• Braised lamb shank or veal osso buco — the firm tannins and acidity are built for rich, slow-cooked meats.
• Handmade tajarin with butter and sage — a classic Piedmontese pairing that lets the wine’s complexity shine.
• Aged Castelmagno or Toma Piemontese — regional cheeses that complement Nebbiolo’s earthy depth.

In the northernmost commune of Barolo, perched in a castle that has stood since the early 1500s, the Burlotto family has quietly produced some of the most elegant Nebbiolo in Piedmont. Castello di Verduno has been theirs since 1909, and the Massara vineyard — planted on the chalky Marne di Sant’Agata soils that define the commune’s signature minerality — is among its finest expressions.

The 2022 Massara is, by any measure, a seriously impressive Barolo. Vinified in open-top wooden vats with an extended maceration using the traditional submerged cap method, then aged in large Austrian and Slavonian botti grandi, it carries the full weight of its terroir with uncommon grace. Bottled unfined and unfiltered — nothing added, nothing taken away.

On the nose: macerated cherry, new leather, spice, and pomegranate with an exotic, almost heady complexity. The palate is broad and ample, with a lovely textural intensity and a seamless mid-palate carried effortlessly by fine, ripe tannins through a long and structured finish. A standout of the vintage.

• Producer: Castello di Verduno
• Appellation: Barolo DOCG — Verduno, Piedmont, Italy
• Vineyard: Massara — Marne di Sant’Agata (30% sand, 55% clay, 15% limestone)
• Varietal: 100% Nebbiolo
• Viticulture: Practicing organic, hand-harvested
• Bottling: Unfined & unfiltered
• Drink: Now through 2040+

Expert Review - Vintage 2022:

94 Vinous — “Seriously impressive… broad and ample, with a lovely level of textural intensity and complexity that is exceedingly rare in this vintage.”

Food Pairings: Braised short ribs, roast lamb, truffle risotto, aged Parmigiano-Reggiano, wild boar ragù.

Expert Reviews

Wine Advocate 90 Points | The organic Volpaia 2020 Balifico is an IGT blend of 65% Sangiovese and 35% Cabernet Sauvignon. The Cabernet Sauvignon is impossible to miss, as this wine is very driven by aromas of blackberry, bitter chocolate and garden herb that are linked to that varietal. This is a medium to full-bodied red blend that also delivers the dusty crushed stone aromas that I associate with Chianti Classico.

James Suckling 93 Points | Very pretty and floral aromas with orange blossom and currant character. Very attractive purity of fruit. It’s medium-bodied with polished and fine tannins and a fresh and clean finish. Tangy acidity. From organically grown grapes. Give it a year or two more but already gorgeous. Drink or hold.

Wine Spectator 92 Points | Loaded with black cherry, blackberry and floral aromas and flavors, this red is also firmly structured. Shows persistent fruit through the lingering aftertaste, where elements of earth and Tuscan scrub emerge. Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2033.

About Castello di Volpaia

Volpaia is one of the most stunning estates in Italy, located in a fortified medieval village in Radda in Chianti. Because the vineyards are among the highest in the Chianti Classico zone — up to 600 meters — the wines have a cool-climate elegance that sets them apart from the heavier, more muscular Chiantis found in the valleys.

Winemaker Description

The Chianti Classico has a vivid ruby color and a strong nose of fresh red fruit with hints of cherry. A well-structured wine with a fruity finish. The vintage began with a warm winter with little rain. May and June were cold with heavy rains that caused several problems with downy mildew throughout Italy. In July temperatures rose significantly, and the hot, dry summer was followed by late August rains that allowed the grapes to complete ripening beautifully.

Expert Reviews

Decanter — 91 Points (Michaela Morris)
"A very pretty, classy wine that captures the essence of Radda in its bright, lifted personality. Crushed flowers, chalk, mint, white pepper and cranberry all grace this perfumed, lithe Chianti Classico."

Tony Wood Italian Wine — 95 Points
"Bright ruby red with purple undertones. Amazing aroma of spring flowers, violet, petal, sweet red fruits, liquorice, cedar, dry forest floor, spice. Creamy, elegant, fantastic length and balance. A total winner!"

Product Details

• Producer: Castello di Volpaia
• Region: Chianti Classico DOCG, Radda in Chianti, Tuscany, Italy
• Grape: Sangiovese
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Altitude: Up to 600 meters
• Vintage: 2022
• Format: 750ml

Expert Reviews — Vintage 2020

James Suckling 94 Points | Attractive aromas of ripe cherries, dried strawberries, dried orange peel, spices and crushed stones. Medium to full body with compact, firm, finely grained tannins. Smooth and textured with vivid fruit underneath and a lingering finish. Drink or hold.

Jeb Dunnuck 92 Points | Rich ruby color. A selection from the best vineyards, aged for two years. Toasted cedar, cherry lozenge, menthol, and spiced orange peel. Medium-bodied with ripe tannins folding into a mineral texture, mouthwatering stony earth, and a long, clean finish.

Robert Parker | Wine Advocate 93 Points | Ripe fruit with measured intensity that never feels heavy or overdone — achieving this level of balance is not easy in a hot growing season. Characterized by an especially linear and direct personality that pushes over the palate with good momentum.

Wine Spectator 90 Points | Juicy yet firmly structured with bright cherry and blackberry fruit. Dense tannins inform the finish with accents of earth and mineral. Balanced in a youthful, exuberant way. Best 2025–2039.

Winemaker Notes

Ruby red with a trace of garnet. Elegant nose displaying hints of spice and fruit. Well-structured with smooth tannins and a long finish. Certified organic Sangiovese from one of Chianti Classico’s most historic and beautiful estates.

Tasting & Pairings

Ripe cherry, dried strawberry, orange peel, crushed stones, cedar, menthol, and spice. Medium to full body with firm, finely grained tannins and a mineral finish. Decant or cellar through 2039.

• Bistecca alla Fiorentina or grilled lamb — the classic Tuscan pairing for a Riserva of this caliber.
• Wild boar ragù or pappardelle with meat sauce — the tannin structure and earthy notes complement rich, slow-cooked sauces.
• Aged Pecorino Toscano — a regional cheese that mirrors the wine’s earthy, mineral character.

Winemaker Description 

Ruby-garnet color. Very vibrant, well-balanced aromas with hints of Mediterranean scrubland and eucalyptus, and nuances of black berry fruit and pipe tobacco. The palate shows full, tangy, mineral flavor, velvety though, rounded and beautifully structured.

Perfect with stewed horsemeat in sauce; highly recommended with pasta (sagne ‘ncannulate), meatballs with sauce, chick pea soup, roasted or stewed red meats (lamb and goat).

Winemaker's Notes

Castello Monaci crafts Kreos as a dry, elegant rosé that captures the sun-drenched character of Salento, Puglia. Bright and aromatic on the nose, it opens with lingering floral notes alongside fresh cherries, raspberries, and redcurrants.

On the palate, Kreos is velvety and rounded with a tangy, minerally backbone and an intoxicatingly fresh finish. Ripe fruit notes linger beautifully — making this an ideal companion for warm evenings, light Mediterranean fare, or simply on its own.

• Winery: Castello Monaci
• Appellation: Salento IGP, Puglia, Italy
• Varietal: Negroamaro
• Vintage: 2025
• Format: 750ml
• Style: Dry, elegant, fruit-forward rosé
• Pairings: Seafood, light pasta, charcuterie, aperitivo

Castello Monaci Primitivo Piluna — Salento, Apulia 2023

Castello Monaci is one of Apulia's most storied estates, and Piluna — named for the ancient clay vessel once used to store water and wine — is its benchmark expression of Primitivo. Sourced from vineyards surrounding the historic estate in Salento, where dry clay, volcanic gravel, and limestone soils force vines deep in search of water, the wine delivers the rich, concentrated character that makes southern Italian Primitivo one of the world's most compelling value reds. James Suckling awarded it 90 points. At $14.99, it is one of Italy's most honest overachievers.

The nose opens with broad, ripe black fruit, sour cherries, sultanas, dried oranges, and sweet spices, with notes of pepper, toasty vanilla, and Mediterranean scrub. On the palate, it is robust and concentrated with a jammy, lightly sweet-sour character, ripe tannins, and a lingering finish of small black fruit and licorice. Harvested by hand before dawn to preserve sugar levels, then aged 6 months in a blend of stainless steel and 2nd and 3rd use French oak.

"Sour cherries, sultanas, dried oranges and sweet spices on the nose, followed by a medium- to full-bodied, jammy and lightly sweet-sour palate. Ripe tannins." — James Suckling, 90 Points (Vintage 2023)

• Producer: Castello Monaci, Salento, Apulia, Italy
• Vintage: 2023
• Appellation: Salento IGT
• Varietal: 100% Primitivo
• Style: Full-bodied, rich, fruit-forward southern Italian red
• Vinification: Stainless steel fermentation; aged 6 months in 75% stainless steel and 25% 2nd & 3rd use French oak
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Sour cherries, sultanas, dried oranges, black fruit, pepper, toasty vanilla, licorice
• Cellar Potential: Drink now through 2027
• Best Paired With: Grilled lamb, braised short ribs, aged pecorino, tomato-based pasta, charcuterie

A 90-point Apulian Primitivo at an honest price — Piluna is the benchmark for what Salento can deliver in a glass.

Cavicchioli Vigna del Cristo Lambrusco di Sorbara — Emilia-Romagna 2025

Vigna del Cristo is the crown jewel of Cavicchioli — a 100% Lambrusco di Sorbara sourced exclusively from the original 12.5-acre family vineyard in the Cristo locality of Sorbara, the birthplace of the Cavicchioli estate. Lambrusco di Sorbara is one of Italy’s most fascinating and demanding grape varieties: naturally low-yielding, it flowers with great difficulty and the vine is often sterile, requiring alternating rows of the more vigorous Salamino variety to aid fertilization. In this rare bottling, only pure Sorbara fruit is used — no Salamino blended in, as is permitted by the DOC. Hand-harvested fruit is de-stemmed, crushed, and cold-macerated on skins for 3–5 days at 45–55°F to extract color and aromatics. Only 50% of the free-run juice — the “flower” of the press — then undergoes a secondary fermentation in autoclave at 55–60°F to achieve its delicate, persistent effervescence. The result is one of the most elegant and distinctive sparkling wines in all of Italy.

The color is a luminous light red with violet hues, crowned by a light pink evanescent froth and fine, persistent perlage. The nose is ample and intense: violets, red fruits, and a whisper of fresh florals that is the unmistakable signature of Sorbara. On the palate, it is full and dry — fruity, vibrant, and engaging, with a slightly acidulous aftertaste that makes it irresistibly refreshing and endlessly food-friendly. Total acidity: 8 g/L. Serve well-chilled.

“Light pink evanescent froth and fine and persistent perlage. The perfume of flowers and red fruits is ample and intense — the flavor is full and dry with a fruity aroma and an engaging slightly acidulous aftertaste.” — Sandro Cavicchioli, Winemaker

• Producer: Umberto Cavicchioli & Figli, Sorbara, Emilia-Romagna, Italy
• Vintage: 2025
• Appellation: Lambrusco di Sorbara DOC
• Varietal: 100% Lambrusco di Sorbara
• Vineyard: Vigna del Cristo — 12.5 acres, Cristo locality, Sorbara (original family estate)
• Vinification: Hand-harvested, cold skin maceration 3–5 days, secondary fermentation in autoclave (Charmat method), 50% free-run juice only
• Total Acidity: 8 g/L
• Style: Dry, elegant, floral sparkling red — Lambrusco di Sorbara at its purest
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Violets, red fruits, fresh florals, vibrant acidity, fine persistent bubbles, dry and engaging finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now — best enjoyed young and fresh
• Best Paired With: Charcuterie, prosciutto di Parma, pasta with complex sauces, fried fish, vegetable dishes, red meats

The purest expression of Lambrusco di Sorbara — Vigna del Cristo is Italy’s most elegant sparkling red, and one of the great food wines of the world.

Cavit | Pinot Grigio delle Venezie DOC | 2024 | 1.50L Magnum

Crafted by Cavit, the cooperative that has defined Italian Pinot Grigio for American palates, this 1.5L Magnum delivers the variety's signature freshness at a generous scale. The 2024 vintage from the Venezie DOC — spanning Trentino-Alto Adige, Veneto, and Friuli — brings bright citrus, crisp green apple, and a clean, mineral-driven finish. Light-bodied and refreshing, it is equally at home as an aperitif or alongside pasta in cream sauce, risotto, veal, chicken, and fresh seafood. The Magnum format ensures every pour is as lively as the first.

Grape: 100% Pinot Grigio
Region: Venezie DOC, Italy
Vintage: 2024
Format: 1.50L Magnum

Cavit | Pinot Grigio delle Venezie DOC | 2024 | 187ml Split

The same benchmark Italian Pinot Grigio that made Cavit the #1 Italian wine in America — now in a single-serve 187ml Split. Sourced from the broad Venezie DOC across Trentino-Alto Adige, Veneto, and Friuli, the 2024 vintage is dry, light, and refreshingly crisp, with notes of citrus zest, white peach, and green apple on a clean mineral finish. A perfect pour for the aperitivo hour, or alongside pasta in cream sauce, risotto, veal, chicken, and fresh seafood. Serve well chilled.

Grape: 100% Pinot Grigio
Region: Venezie DOC, Italy
Vintage: 2024
Format: 187ml Split

Winemaker Description 

With light refreshing flavors of citrus and green apple, it’s no surprise that it comes from the #1 Italian Wine in America.

Winemaker Description

The 2019 Bernardot is dark and austere with wonderful nuances of ripe red fruit. Tannins are very silky and delicate in this 2019, showing a lot of finesse, typical from the Barbaresco area. It’s an elegant and very expressive Barbaresco. One of the favorite vineyards of winemaker Alessandro Ceretto.

Expert Reviews

Wine Advocate Monica Larner 95 Points writes | The organic Ceretto 2019 Barbaresco Bernadot shows a broader character and a more open-knit personality compared to the Asili. There is a lot of dark fruit, spice, truffle and earth to frame the medium-build of this elegant wine.  (2019).

Wine Spectator 94 Points | A bright red, delivering a core of cherry and raspberry fruit supported by earth, mineral and wild herbs. Intense, complex and dense, this is solidly built and persists with an aftertaste of dark fruit, mineral and spice. Best from 2025. (2019).

Cigliuti · Langhe Nebbiolo · 2024

From the Cigliuti family’s vineyards in Serraboella and Bricco di Neive, this Langhe Nebbiolo brings the character of the family’s Piedmont holdings into a fresh, approachable bottle. Renato Cigliuti began prioritizing quality over quantity in the 1960s, when green harvesting was still unusual among his neighbors. His daughters Claudia and Silvia now run the winery, with Renato and Dina still involved.

The 2024 is bright and floral, with red fruit, a lively palate and fine tannins. Give it a little time in the glass to let its cherry and spice notes unfold. It makes a lovely companion to mushroom dishes, roast poultry or a simple plate of pasta.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2024

From younger vines in Serraboella and Bricco di Neive, the 2024 Langhe Nebbiolo pours a bright medium ruby and reflects the cooler nature of the vintage. Fermented in stainless steel and aged five months in stainless steel followed by five months in 2,500-liter Slavonian oak casks, it opens with pomegranate, fresh flowers, tangerine, and dried earth. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied, light on its feet, and refreshing without austerity, with fine tannins and a lifted floral tone that lingers through the finish.

Jeb Dunnuck · 91 points

The 2024 Langhe Nebbiolo is a fine entry-level offering from Cigliuti. Aromatic, vibrant and medium in body, the 2024 is super-classic in feel. Crushed rose petal, red-toned fruit, chalk and mint lend notable high-toned brightness. Youthful tannins extend the mid-palate and finish. This is essentially a mini-Barbaresco.

Vinous · 90 points

At a Glance

• Producer: Cigliuti
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Langhe Nebbiolo, Piedmont, Italy
• Grape: Nebbiolo
• Size: 750ml

Cocchi Vermouth di Torino Extra Dry — Piedmont, Italy 500ml

Released to mark Cocchi’s 130th anniversary, Vermouth di Torino Extra Dry is a landmark expression from the birthplace of vermouth itself. Labeled “Ricetta Piemontese” — Piedmontese Recipe — every relevant ingredient in this vermouth comes exclusively from Piemonte, reflecting a deep and uncompromising bond with the region. While classic dry vermouths were traditionally the domain of Southeast France, Cocchi has crafted a distinctly Piedmontese answer to the category — and it is exceptional.

The wine base is Cortese, the same grape behind Gavi DOCG, lending a crisp, mineral freshness. Artemisia Absinthium (wormwood) sourced 100% from the Piedmont mountains provides the aromatic backbone, while Menta di Pancalieri — a local peppermint variety — and lemon round out the profile with bright, herbaceous lift. The result is a dry vermouth of remarkable precision and regional character, equally at home in a classic Dry Martini or sipped chilled on its own.

“Ricetta Piemontese — every ingredient from Piemonte. Cocchi Extra Dry is the definitive Piedmontese answer to the dry vermouth category.”

• Producer: Cocchi, Asti, Piedmont, Italy
• Style: Extra Dry Vermouth
• Size: 500ml
• Wine Base: Cortese (Gavi DOCG grape)
• Key Botanicals: Artemisia Absinthium (Piedmont wormwood), Menta di Pancalieri (local peppermint), lemon
• Tasting Notes: Crisp, mineral, herbaceous, bright citrus, fresh peppermint, dry and precise finish
• How to Enjoy: Classic Dry Martini; chilled neat with a lemon twist; spritz with soda
• Best Paired With: Oysters, seafood crudo, light antipasti, olives, fresh cheeses

A milestone release from one of Italy’s greatest vermouth houses — Cocchi Extra Dry is the Piedmontese Dry Martini’s perfect companion.

Col d’Orcia · Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2020

One of Montalcino’s original estates, Col d’Orcia is known for a traditional approach that lets Sangiovese lead. The estate’s limestone and marl vineyards sit about 1,500 feet above sea level between the Orcia River and Sant’Angelo in Colle. In 2020, a frost-free winter and dry spring were followed by summer rain that supported ripening; the Consorzio del Brunello and a panel of Masters of Wine rated the vintage five stars.

The hand-harvested grapes fermented for 18–20 days in temperature-controlled, shallow stainless-steel tanks. The wine aged three years in large Slavonian and Allier oak casks, then a year in bottle. Expect ripe cherry and sour cherry, hints of jam, vanilla and light toast, balanced tannins, and a savory, persistent finish.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate · 94 points · 2020: The organic Col d'Orcia 2020 Brunello di Montalcino offers a classic Sangiovese bouquet with warm-vintage intensity. It shows sweet aromas of raspberry tart and cooked cherry. There is a delicate element of smoked spice at the back. The tannins are open-knit, and the wine offers immediate drinking pleasure. It should be exciting to follow this wine's future evolution. “We try to protect the freshness of Sangiovese,” says Count Francesco Marone Cinzano. “That is our reading of traditional Brunello.”

Decanter · 93 points · 2020: Among Montalcino’s larger estates, Col d’Orcia is also one of the region’s most consistent values – especially given its solid ageing potential in most vintages. The 2020 is no exception. There is a captivating sumptuousness to the nose as it radiates lush red cherries and strawberry bush. With air, an underlying flintiness emerges, as well as a mix of sweet garden and exotic herbs. A surprisingly hefty structure of dry, sandy tannins curbs its generosity, while leather and orange lurk through the stony core. Somewhat muddled now, but harmony is within sight.

Jeb Dunnuck · 93 points · 2020: A saturated red color, the 2020 Brunello Di Montalcino was aged three years in barrel and captures the richness of the southern sector while staying pure and energetic. It offers ripe aromatics of black cherries, dried herbs, leather, and dark earth. Medium to full-bodied, it has ripe tannins, bright acidity, and a savory finish with a touch of warmth.

James Suckling · 93 points · 2020: A fresh and refined red with plum and orange character, as well as fine tannins. It’s medium-bodied, lively and focused. A little tight at the end, suggesting two or three years will allow it to open. A more traditional Brunello here. Drink after 2027.

Vinous · 92 points · 2020: The 2020 Brunello di Montalcino opens slowly with a blend of black cherry and minty herb scents elevated by hints of blood orange. It displays silky textures and a lifted feel, with tart wild berry fruit aromas and mineral tones accentuated by rosy inner florals. The 2020 imparts edgy tannins offset by a tinge of zesty acidity.

Wine Spectator · 92 points · 2020: Balsamic notes of tomato leaf, juniper and thyme rub shoulders with strawberry, cherry, blood orange and earth in this dry, elegant red. Ends firmly, with lightly chewy tannins and a mouthwatering feel. Best from 2027 through 2042.

• Producer: Col d’Orcia
• Wine: Brunello di Montalcino DOCG
• Vintage: 2020
• Grape: 100% Sangiovese
• Region: Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy
• Style: Organic red wine
• Size: 750ml

A classic, cellar-worthy Brunello, balancing generous Sangiovese fruit with savory depth and traditional oak aging.

Warehouse stored item - please allow two to five business days to fulfill.

Notes of acacia flowers, apple, lemon peel and grapefruit are balanced by refreshing and bright acidity.Produced using the Charmat, or tank method, the wine is a bright, straw yellow and presents a delicate and persistent bead.Produced using the Charmat, or tank method, the wine is a bright, straw yellow and presents a delicate and persistent bead.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2021 

Audrey Frick of JebDunnuck.com writes 99 Points | The 2021 Barolo Acclivi marks the return of this cuvée after the 2020 crop was destroyed by hail. The nose is layered and complex with notes of clove spice, ripe red raspberry liqueur, blood orange, framboise, peppery spices, and pressed floral notes. The palate has lovely, refined concentration, ripe tannins, haunting notes of strawberries that last long on the finish, and notes of leather. While it has the fruit and freshness to drink now, it certainly has the structure to age. It’s one of the more contemplative wines in the range to enjoy over the coming decades.

Keron O'Keeffe  99 Points | Fragrant and loaded with finesse, the 2021 Acclivi is simply magnificent, starting with its beautiful scents of rose, forest berry, menthol, star anise and whiffs recalling sweetgrass. A blend of selected Nebbiolo from the estate’s best and oldest vineyards in Verduno, in the Monvigliero, Neirane, Rocche dell’Olmo and Boscatto sites, the chiseled, elegantly structured and delicious palate reflects the nose, delivering red cherry, raspberry, licorice and crushed mint accompanied by taut, refined tannins. Fresh acidity keeps it well balanced and fuels even more intensity while a cinnamon note lingers on the finish. This is a captivating, extraordinary wine and the best Acclivi I have had to date.

Monica Larner of The Wine Advocate writes 97 Points | This wine was not produced in 2020. The Comm. G.B. Burlotto 2021 Barolo Acclivi is a blend of old-vine fruit from Monvigliero, Neirane and Rocche dell’Olmo, three MGA sites in the village of Verduno. I tasted this sample at two stages with 24 hours between them, and the change was impressive. The wine goes from feeling tight and almost squeaky to relaxed, fragrant and ethereal with aeration. The bouquet reveals layers of lilac, raspberry tart with custard and finely shaved pencil. Drink 2027-2055.

James Suckling writes 96 Points | A graceful Barolo that shows aromas of smoke, licorice, violets, delicate red currants and strawberries. It’s restrained and elegant on the palate, with a slight sweetness, a medium to full body, refreshing acidity and ripe, chewy tannins. Tight and savory. There is a huge structure that’s well covered by the fruit. Drinkable now, but best from 2026 or 2027.

Antonio Galloni of Vinous Media writes 94 Points | The 2021 Barolo Acclivi is a suave, sensual wine. All of this fruit is from vineyards in Verduno. That is very much evident in the wine's aromatic profile and overall weight. Blood orange, rose petal, mint, chalk and spice give the 2021 very pretty top notes. I admire the overall depth and brilliance here. This is a very serious Barolo. Drink 2026-2041.

Memo Summary Description 

The Placido "Primavera Selection" Pinot Grigio 2024 is a textbook example of a clean, refreshing, and high-value Italian white wine. Produced by the renowned Banfi family (owners of the Placido label), this wine is specifically crafted to be "primavera" (springtime) in a bottle—vibrant, floral, and incredibly easy to drink.

While the brand is famous for its Tuscan roots, this Pinot Grigio is typically sourced from the Delle Venezie DOC (Veneto), the world's premier region for crisp, mineral-driven Pinot Grigio.

Memo Summary Description 

The Placido "Primavera Selection" Pinot Grigio 2024 is a textbook example of a clean, refreshing, and high-value Italian white wine. Produced by the renowned Banfi family (owners of the Placido label), this wine is specifically crafted to be "primavera" (springtime) in a bottle—vibrant, floral, and incredibly easy to drink.

While the brand is famous for its Tuscan roots, this Pinot Grigio is typically sourced from the Delle Venezie DOC (Veneto), the world's premier region for crisp, mineral-driven Pinot Grigio.

Contratto Vermouth Bianco 750ml

Discover Contratto Vermouth Bianco, an exceptional Italian vermouth crafted by one of Italy's oldest and most prestigious vermouth producers. Established in 1867 in Canelli, Piedmont, Contratto has been creating premium vermouths using traditional methods and the finest ingredients for over 150 years. This Vermouth Bianco showcases the artistry of Italian vermouth-making, offering a unique bouquet and taste created through the gentle infusion of aromatic herbs and spices. Perfect for classic and contemporary mixology or enjoyed on its own, Contratto Vermouth Bianco represents authentic Italian craftsmanship.

Historic Italian Heritage

Contratto, founded in 1867, is one of Italy's oldest and most respected vermouth and sparkling wine producers. Located in Canelli, in the heart of Piedmont's wine country, Contratto has maintained its commitment to traditional production methods while creating innovative, high-quality products. The company's rich heritage and dedication to excellence have made it a benchmark for premium Italian vermouth.

Vermouth Bianco Style

Vermouth Bianco (white vermouth) is a sweet, aromatic fortified wine characterized by its pale color and complex botanical profile. This style of vermouth is lighter and more delicate than red vermouth, with a balance of sweetness, herbal notes, and subtle bitterness. Contratto's Bianco showcases the finest expression of this classic Italian style.

Aromatic Botanical Blend

The aromatic blend of herbs and spices gently infuses the wine to create a unique bouquet and taste. Contratto uses carefully selected botanicals including herbs, roots, flowers, and spices that are traditional to Piedmont vermouth production. This meticulous selection and gentle infusion process creates layers of complexity and a distinctive flavor profile.

Tasting Profile

Appearance: Pale straw to light gold with brilliant clarity
Aroma: Complex bouquet of aromatic herbs, vanilla, citrus peel, chamomile, elderflower, and subtle spices. Floral and botanical notes
Palate: Balanced sweetness with herbal complexity. Flavors of vanilla, honey, citrus, alpine herbs, and gentle spice. Medium-bodied with smooth texture. Subtle bitterness balances the sweetness
Finish: Long, elegant finish with lingering herbal and citrus notes

Traditional Production Methods

Contratto employs traditional vermouth-making techniques passed down through generations. The base wine is carefully selected, then infused with a proprietary blend of botanicals. The gentle infusion process allows the herbs and spices to impart their flavors without overwhelming the wine's natural character, resulting in a harmonious and refined vermouth.

Versatile Serving Options

Contratto Vermouth Bianco is delicious served in multiple ways:

• Neat: Serve chilled on its own to appreciate the full complexity
• With a twist: Add a twist of lemon peel to enhance citrus notes
• On the rocks: Pour over ice for a refreshing aperitif
• With soda: Top with sparkling water for a light spritz

Perfect for Classic Cocktails

Contratto Vermouth Bianco is the perfect vermouth for classic and contemporary mixology:

• Martini: Classic gin or vodka martini
• Negroni Bianco: White Negroni variation
• Americano: With Campari and soda
• Spritz: With prosecco and soda
• Manhattan variations: White Manhattan
• Contemporary cocktails: Craft cocktail creations

Aperitif Excellence

As a traditional Italian aperitif, Contratto Vermouth Bianco is perfect for stimulating the appetite before meals. Serve chilled with light appetizers, olives, or nuts for an authentic Italian aperitivo experience. The balanced sweetness and herbal complexity make it an ideal pre-dinner drink.

Food Pairing Suggestions

When served as an aperitif, pair with:

• Italian antipasti and charcuterie
• Olives and marinated vegetables
• Aged cheeses
• Nuts and dried fruits
• Light seafood appetizers
• Bruschetta and crostini

Serving Suggestions

Serve well-chilled at 40-45°F (4-7°C) to appreciate the vermouth's aromatic complexity and balanced flavor. Store in the refrigerator after opening and consume within a few months for optimal freshness. The botanicals are best appreciated when the vermouth is properly chilled.

Premium Italian Craftsmanship

Contratto Vermouth Bianco represents the pinnacle of Italian vermouth production. Every bottle reflects over 150 years of expertise, traditional methods, and commitment to quality. From the careful selection of base wines to the proprietary botanical blend, each element is chosen to create a vermouth of exceptional character and refinement.

Ideal for Home Bars & Entertaining

A must-have for any well-stocked home bar, Contratto Vermouth Bianco is essential for:

• Classic cocktail enthusiasts
• Aperitif service and entertaining
• Craft cocktail creation
• Italian-style aperitivo hours
• Gift giving for spirits lovers
• Building a premium vermouth collection

Authentic Italian Vermouth Experience

Contratto Vermouth Bianco offers an authentic taste of Italian vermouth tradition. Whether enjoyed neat with a twist of lemon, mixed into classic cocktails, or served as part of an aperitivo spread, this vermouth delivers the quality, complexity, and elegance that has made Contratto a respected name in Italian spirits for over a century and a half.

Coppo · Barbera d'Asti DOCG · Camp du Rouss · 2023 · 750ml

The Producer

Founded in 1892 in Canelli, in the heart of Piedmont's Asti hills, Coppo is one of the region's historic family houses, famous for aging its wines in underground cellars carved into the hillside. Camp du Rouss is its signature take on Barbera: generous, polished and built for the table.

The Wine

Ripe, dark-skinned fruit, culinary spice and new leather lead the way, with a lift of menthol. The palate is firmly structured and chewy, offering dried Morello cherry, raspberry jam, licorice and espresso over fine-grained tannins, with Barbera's trademark fresh acidity keeping it lively.

Expert Review (2023 Vintage)

"Round and supple in texture, this fluid red boasts cherry, blackberry and plum flavors, with flashes of floral and chocolate notes. Warm spice accents inform the finish. Drink now through 2030."
Wine Spectator, 90 points

Pairings & Serving

Pasta and beans, risotto with porcini mushrooms, or chicken chasseur. Serve slightly cool, around 60–62°F.

Specs

• Producer: Coppo
• Wine: Camp du Rouss
• Appellation: Barbera d'Asti DOCG
• Region: Piedmont, Italy
• Vintage: 2023
• Varietal: 100% Barbera
• Size: 750ml

An easy weeknight hero with enough depth for the dinner party. Drink now through 2030.

Cora Montepulciano d’Abruzzo — Abruzzo, Italy 2024

The Cora Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is the house Italian red we reach for without hesitation — and the 2024 vintage is its brightest, most energetic expression yet. A proprietary label crafted exclusively for David Bowler Wine, Cora sources fruit from established vineyards in the Abruzzo region, where the rugged Apennine foothills and Adriatic breezes produce Montepulciano of exceptional freshness and drinkability. Fresh, fun, and uncomplicated by design — but built to satisfy exacting standards. At $10.99, it is one of the most compelling everyday values in Italian red wine.

The nose is lively and inviting: brambly cranberry, strawberry blossoms, red apple skin, and rose petals, accented with spicy notes of nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon stick. On the palate, it is crisp and juicy — good acidity keeping it lively and agile, with moderate tannins that drive it energetically into a clean, refreshing finish. A lighter, brighter, snappier rendition of Montepulciano that is as easy at the table as it is on its own.

“Brambly aromas of cranberry, strawberry blossoms, red apple skin and rose petals… Crisp and juicy in the mouth with good acidity keeping it lively and agile. A great wine for pizza and pasta, and just about anything else.” — Bart Hopkins, 67Wine

• Producer: Cora, a proprietary label for David Bowler Wine, Abruzzo, Italy
• Vintage: 2024
• Appellation: Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC
• Varietal: 100% Montepulciano
• Closure: Screwcap
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Cranberry, strawberry blossom, red apple, rose petal, nutmeg, cloves, crisp acidity, lively finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now — best enjoyed young and fresh
• Best Paired With: Pizza, pasta, grilled sausages, arancini, casual weeknight dinners, antipasto boards

Bright, juicy, and built for the table — the Cora Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is the benchmark for what everyday Italian red can be at this price.

Winemaker Description 

Crafted with fine effervescence that tickles the palate, Cupcake Moscato d’Asti is a vibrant wine with flavors of nectarine, honey and peach. Pair with coconut pudding or a fruit tart.

Expert Review - Vintage 2019

Danielle Callegari of the WIne Enthusiast writes 88 Points | Hot chili peppers burst off the nose of this Nero d'Avola, lifted by wood smoke, macerated blackberries and bitter chocolate. Spiciness carries over to the palate, with notes of black pepper and tomato-pepper jam, but also more berries and some tobacco leaf. Tannins are firm but polished.  

Warehouse stored item - please allow two to five business days to fulfill.

James Suckling 95 Points | A fine-tuned, elegant Barolo with aromas of dried cherries, dried roses, licorice and mint. Full-bodied, it shows smoothness, density, weight and soft tannins despite the structure, with refreshing acidity and a long, vibrant finish full of savory flavors. Drinkable now, but best from 2026.