I love northern Italian whites, and Anselmi is one of the forerunners of quality whites from the Soave region (though he uses IGT Veneto rather than DOC Soave). Founded in 1948, the winery has 70 ha of vineyards in Monteforte d'Alpone, high in the hills between Soave and Monteforte, near Verona. This expressive Garganega/Chardonnay/Sauvignon Blanc blend carries almonds, wild herbs, honeysuckle and tropical orange along a waxy palate, one finely textured with broken stones. Nimble acidity keeps this light for all its concentration. Excellent value.
This bubbly has a creamy, minerally, apple and pear nose; it’s medium-bodied, on the dry side, but not too dry, with good persistence on the palate. A very useful wine for minor celebrations or to make dinner an occasion.
Elegant and complex with a rich touch of yeastiness, refined, gentle bubbles, creamy texture, black cherry, citrus, ginger spice and a hint of bitter almond on the long, lingering, lifted finish. A great alternative to Champagne.
So-called "natural wines" are sometimes a gamble: they are often fragile and don't travel well. This one is in perfect health with its clear, full ruby and garnet rim and perfumed, slightly floral nose with a touch of kirsch. Supple and balanced on the palate, it is wisely oaked and very pleasant to drink.
Elegant and layered with plum, berry, earth and mineral; medium-bodied with silky tannins and a long, long persistent finish. A great value from one of Tuscany’s most underrated producers. Food-versatile and will pair with everything from ribollita to stew chicken to grilled pork chops.
Lively and seamless with good concentration and definition; flavours of wild cherry, red liquorice, fresh herb and spicy mineral; mouth-watering, silky tannins and a bright finish. A great value and great representation of this grape. Great with grilled seafood; the perfect pizza wine.
Ripasso (meaning “repassed”) method has reached the 50-year mark with this pioneering red. Leftover Amarone grape skins are tossed into a classic grape blend of Corvina, Rondinella and Molinara, thereby initiating refermentation that adds body and richness to the wine. Soft, fruity and versatile.