Like wearing a finely knitted Italian cardigan–they're back ‘on trend’ right? One dyed a dark and classy red and oozes cherry and red currant comforts plus some crumbly tannins and cool leafiness. Perfect while cooking and eating with friends.

Produttori di Govone Langhe Nebbiolo 2023

Snap of red apple and blackcurrant with a firm, twiggy tannin grip that does that great drying thing, a bit like a traditional Nebbiolo. Drink slightly chilled out of a latte glass for the full Italian experience, and chill it to increase the approachability.

Poderi Cellario Libertà Nebbiolo 2022

A great mountain Neb for everyone. Cradling tannins, textural appeal, and a very classy-looking bottle. The expression here is pure and smooth with cherry, herb and the kind of aromatics indicative of the vineyard being in one family for over 350 years.

Tenute Sella Orbello Coste Della Sesia Nebbiolo 2022

Some dreams begin with plum skins, raspberry pulp and cherry energised by bright crisp acidity and chalky bricky tannin. In our dreams, the glass turns into a bowl, the fruits become ragu and the gentle turning, spaghetti. Must be a dreamy pairing.

Carlin de Paolo Barbera d' Asti Cursus Vitae 2023

Lovely and fresh with a nice perfume and red cherry pips that pour coiled in chalky tannins. Actually, this may be the cheapest, and best, box of red cherries you'll enjoy this summer.

Carlin de Paolo Monferratto Dolcetto 2023

Aged in large format, old oak for less inference. Nadia Curto shines with La Morra fruit. Every decision she’s made is to let the grapes speak, and after a soft decant, you’ll love all the earthy spice and tannin-soaked fruit that glide over your palate and sink into your heart.

Nadia Curto Barolo La Foia 2020

So savoury and delicious. Think radicchio leaves wrapping orange peels and sprinkled with smoky spices with just a sip of Chinotto. It’s all that in every perfect mouthful. Pour over ice or make a punch with it - Lucano’s website has a great recipe. Has been produced by the same family since 1894 down south in the arch of the boot.

Lucano Vermouth del Cavaliere

Divine intervention? Probably not, but still unbelievable though. Think rose petals, florals and a good amount of peppery spice. This swings deftly between red fruited and savoury flavours but maintains a good drive of earthy tannin that is never overpowering.