Felsina, Berardenga, Chianti Classico, 2006, Italy
We first had this Chianti Classico about 15 years ago from a sale by Grape Passion in Witham, Essex. This was the last bottle that was hidden away from that order. It’s still pretty good, dry, soft and very integrated. Subtle red fruit flavours that make it understated but very drinkable still. At £25 a bottle for the latest vintages it’s classic Chianti. Its like a classic Porsche, when drive slowly.
Aldi, Castellore, Organic, Extra dry, Prosecco, Italy
Could Castellore, Organic Prosecco be thd one to buy, by the case? Yep it is. Yes it’s still Prosecco and from Aldi but it’s very impressive. Dry, clean, plenty of fiz with soft pear flavours and a hint of green apple. At under £5 a bottle, on offer, I wish I had bought more than 2 bottles. It’s like getting a Mazda mx5 for half price, excellent at double the price but awesome at under £5.
Ermacora, Schioppettino, 2020, Italy
You can’t really go wrong with Italian red wine and this one from Ermacora in Northern Italy almost proves it. It’s not that there’s anything wrong with it, its just a dry red wine. Red fruit and pretty light is the best any of us that tried it could say. When tasted one evening with 2 other reds, it was left limping into 3rd.
Reguta, Pignolo, 2020, Northern Italy
What a wonder red to sit in the garden and just relax. Reguta certainly knows how to make a great red wine with this pinolo grape. Its smooth, subtle, rich and yet light. Redcurrant, blueberry and hints of cranberry give long lasting flavours that dance in the mouth. Its one of the best reds of the year or even the 2020’s. At about £20 a bottle it’s amazing value too.