Italy
Italy, known as the "Land of Wine," is celebrated for its exquisite range of fine wines. With a winemaking history dating back thousands of years and a diverse array of terroirs, Italy offers a remarkable collection of wines that delight the senses and captivate wine enthusiasts worldwide.
In Tuscany, famous vineyards like Antinori, Marchesi di Frescobaldi, and Tenuta San Guido have become synonymous with excellence. Wines such as Brunello di Montalcino, Chianti Classico, and Super Tuscans like Sassicaia and Tignanello showcase the region's mastery in crafting complex, age-worthy, and expressive wines. Piedmont is home to legendary vineyards like Gaja, Vietti, and Marchesi di Barolo. The region's iconic wines, Barolo and Barbaresco, crafted from the Nebbiolo grape, epitomize power, elegance, and longevity. These wines boast flavors of red fruit, floral notes, earthy undertones, and firm tannins. Veneto, renowned for its sparkling Prosecco wines, is also famous for Amarone della Valpolicella. Vineyards like Allegrini and Quintarelli produce exceptional Amarone wines with concentrated flavors of dark fruit, spices, and a velvety texture. Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, offers a different yet captivating expression of Italian wines. Vineyards like Planeta, Donnafugata, and Tasca d'Almerita craft remarkable wines from indigenous grape varieties such as Nero d'Avola and Nerello Mascalese. These wines exhibit intense fruit flavors, vibrant acidity, and a unique volcanic minerality.
These are just a few examples of the renowned vineyards and wines Italy has to offer. From the northern regions of Piedmont and Veneto to the central regions of Tuscany and Umbria, and down to the southern regions of Sicily and Puglia, Italy's wine regions are a treasure trove of exceptional wines. Experience the allure of Italian wines and immerse yourself in the rich history, diverse terroirs, and passionate winemaking that define the Italian wine scene. Whether you're sipping a prestigious Barolo, a refined Brunello di Montalcino, a refreshing Prosecco, or a bold Nero d'Avola, Italian wines promise a journey of flavors and a celebration of Italy's winemaking heritage.
Italy
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Captured from the illustrious Italian region of Veneto, the Sansonina Merlot 2001 embodies the epitome of finesse and structure, characteristic to its famed lineage. Significantly influenced by the unique terroir, this vibrant ruby red Merlot boasts exquisite aromas of sweet spices, blackberries, and understated earthy nuances.
The grapes, harvested meticulously in late September, underwent a long maceration and were subsequently aged in small oak barrels. The employment of these traditional vinification methods imparts the Sansonina Merlot 2001 a velvety texture with an elegant balance of tannin and acidity.
This prestigious creation is a testament to the Sansonina estate's unfaltering commitment to excellence. Renowned for its artisanal approach, this female-led boutique winery, managed by the brilliant minds of Nadia Zenato and her mother Carla, endeavours to engrave their indelible mark on each vintage they produce. Experience sans pareil with the Sansonina Merlot 2001, a wine to treasure for the discerning connoisseur.
Inc. VAT£445.24 -
Experience the grandeur of Italian viticulture with the Secondo Marco Amarone della Valpolicella 2013, a wine that exemplifies the authenticity and craftsmanship that only a dedicated vintner can achieve. Produced by legendary winemaking artist Marco dalla Stella, this remarkable vintage hails from Italy's famous Valpolicella region.
Each hand-picked grape undergoes a traditional appassimento drying process before being meticulously fermented and matured for 36 months in Slavonian oak barrels. The result is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation that shines through in the wine's intense ruby red hue, structured body, and complex aromatics.
The Secondo Marco Amarone della Valpolicella 2013 captivates with its layers of black cherry, dried fig, and sweet spices, rounding off with a sophisticated finish that leaves your taste buds yearning for more. This is truly a masterpiece expressing the very soul and essence of Valpolicella.
Inc. VAT£1,101.02 -
Savour the sublime experience of the Secondo Marco Valpolicella Classico 2017, crafted meticulously in the picturesque vineyards of Veneto, Italy. This resplendent red wine embodies the quintessence of traditional Italian winemaking partnered seamlessly with modern viticulture techniques. Conjured from the revered Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara grape varietals, it exhibits a delightfully progressive character, an audacious initiative by the venerated winemaker, Marco Speri.
Proudly bearing the Classico designation, the Secondo Marco Valpolicella 2017 confirms its origins within the original Valpolicella production zone. Marco, the sixth generation of the Speri family lineage, pays homage to the time-honoured traditions with this elegant vintage. Possessing an unrivalled richness, it offers a harmonious interplay of black cherry and ripe plum notes intensified by a spicy undercurrent. The ageing in Slavonian oak barrels amplifies its magnificent depth and rounded tannins.
Ebullient and complex, the Secondo Marco Valpolicella Classico 2017 is nothing short of a vinous masterpiece, a corroborated testament to Marco's virtuosa in winemaking.
Inc. VAT£316.84 -
Immerse your palate in the world of luxury with the Secondo Marco Valpolicella Classico 2019, a true testament to Italian winemaking artistry. Crafted in the prestigious Valpolicella region of Veneto, Italy, this red wine boasts an exquisite blend of Corvina, Rondinella and Molinara grapes. Producer Marco Mosconi’s meticulous attention to detail manifests in the traditional 'pergola veronese' training of vines, limited yield per hectare and separately vinifying the grapes of each vineyard, resulting in a vibrant wine with a splendid balance of freshness and complexity.
Its elegant bouquet brims with lush dark cherries, aromatic herbs, and wild spices, an olfactory pleasure beautifully resonating its terroir. In the mouth, it reveals enticing flavours of ripe red fruits, peppery notes and a touch of minerality. The tannins are soft, lending a well-rounded finish to this splendid vintage. Capture Italian sophistication and revel in the divine character of Secondo Marco Valpolicella Classico 2019.
Inc. VAT£211.49 -
Vinous (91+)
The 2005 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Vigneto Monte Sant'Urbano is one of the standouts in this difficult Amarone vintage. The wine possesses remarkable clarity and precision in a medium-bodied, focused style. Suggestions of amarena cherries, menthol, spices and minerals emerge with air, adding further complexity. The Monte Sant(Urbano is one of more accessible Amarones in its medium-bodied, lithe structure, but the overall balance here is beyond question. This is a wonderful effort from Speri.Inc. VAT£1,073.09 -
Vinous (93+)
The 2008 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Vigneto Monte Sant' Urbano is a real powerhouse. Readers will have to be patient with the 2008. Massive yet nicely integrated tannins support the fruit in a huge, hulking Amarone that holds considerable promise. Mocha, sweet Morello cherries, cloves and crushed rocks emerge over time, but only reluctantly. I can't wait to taste this with a little bottle age. A bottle opened before its tenth birthday is likely to be only partially fulfilling.Inc. VAT£983.09 -
Vinous (93)
Dark ruby with a pale rim. Penetrating red cherry, cinnamon, minerals and botanical herbs on the perfumed, captivating nose; this has a strong aromatic quality that I rarely find in Amarone. Then slightly more austere in the mouth, with strong herbal elements adding a savory component to the ripe but vibrant red fruit flavors. Finishes long with a firm tannic spine, young, chewy tannins, and hints of gunflint. A knockout Amarone and one of the early candidates for wine of the vintage in the difficult 2012 vintage.Inc. VAT£230.65 -
Vinous (95)
The 2016 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Sant'Urbano takes some time to blossom in the glass, as mineral-tinged blackberry evolves into a display of currants and cherries complemented by hints of sweet mint, lavender and violets. It’s velvety in texture and savory to the core, coasting dark red and black fruits across a medium-bodied frame, contrasted by vibrant acids, as grippy tannins form up toward the close. This finishes youthfully structured yet amazingly long, with echoes of licorice and purple inner florals. The 2016 is geared for the cellar, and in need of some time to soften, but my expectations are very high.Inc. VAT£337.69 -
Introducing the transcendent Speri Amarone Valpolicella Classico Monte Sant Urbano 2019. Exuding generations of carefully honed expertise, this Italian wine is extraordinarily crafted by the acclaimed Speri Winery, nestled within the heart of Valpolicella. Recognised for their meticulous approach to viticulture and sustainability, the Speri family underscores tradition, using indigenous grapes meticulously harvested from Monte Sant'Urbano vineyard.
Decadently rich and impeccably polished, the 2019 vintage teases the palate with a fragrant bouquet of dark cherries, spicy notes, and relaxed tannins. The marvel of this Classico lies in its aging process; grapes are dried for 100 days, after which traditional native fermentation follow before indulging in a 36-month sojourn in Slavonian oak barrels.
Bask in the intrinsic elegance that permeates every glass of the Speri Amarone Valpolicella Classico Monte Sant Urbano 2019. Revel in the enchanting complexity and striking depth that make it a glistening jewel in any connoisseur's collection.
Inc. VAT£575.09 -
Revel in the exquisite Venissa Bianco 2014, an exceptional vintage from the esteemed Venetian winery, Venissa. Delicately crafted on the idyllic Mazzorbo Island, the vineyard flourishes in a walled vineyard, allowing a unique bio-diversity. This superlative spirit, harvested from century-old Dorona di Venezia vines, undergoes an extended maceration process and is then refined in French oak barrels. The result is an enchanting white wine boasting remarkable mineral quality and intriguing salinity.
The Venissa Bianco 2014 exudes an inviting golden hue with an enticing aroma of ripe fruits and a hint of spice. Sip to unveil a beautifully complex palate and finish, marked by notes of almond and honey. Its producer, Venissa, is renowned for their dedicated revival of the near-extinct Dorona di Venezia grape, showcasing their commitment to preserving historic wine traditions.
A true testament to Italian viticulture, the Venissa Bianco 2014 is a must-try for any discerning wine aficionado.
Inc. VAT£1,283.09 -
Crafting a true masterpiece, the Venissa Bianco 2015 hails from the Venetian lagoon's storied vineyards on the island of Mazzorbo. This ethereal offering, meticulously produced by the prestigious Bisol family, elegantly embodies the unique terroir of its origins.
The Venissa Bianco 2015 captivates with its rarity and exclusivity, being crafted entirely of the ancient and near-extinct Dorona grape, with only 4000 bottles produced. Employing traditional winemaking techniques, this wine rested for two years in ancient clay amphorae and cement tanks before meeting the world.
Expressing a golden hue, this wine dazzles your senses with complex aromas of honey, nuts, and tropical fruits, balanced beautifully by a savoury minerality. The palate is rich and seductive, drawn out in a long, thought-provoking finish. An enchanting exemplification of Venissian mastery, the Venissa Bianco 2015 pairs perfectly with fine Mediterranean cuisine, while offering vibrant cellaring potential.
Unquestionably, the Venissa Bianco 2015 is a resplendent embodiment of Dorona's indomitable spirit and Bisol's heritage-driven passion.
Inc. VAT£804.41 -
The splendour of Venissa Rosso 2011, a notably distinguished Italian red, showcases the mastery of world-renowned producers, Bisol. An impeccable fusion of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, this exclusivity is a paragon of the splendid wines of Venetian Lagoon's Mazzorbo Island. Raised with meticulous care in the historical walled vineyard, this ruby-red vino unveils a robust bouquet of sun-kissed berries, harmoniously balanced by subtle notes of earthy spice.
After a loving harvest, the grapes are expertly macerated and matured in French oak barriques for over two years, underscoring the rich taste profiles. This punctuated by the fascinating touch of salinity from the unique terroir helps underscore its one-of-a-kind specificity. Opulent in taste and aroma, the incomparable Venissa Rosso 2011 merits a place in any devoted oenophile's collection. Savour its unparalleled richness and relish the intricate journey of every sip. Truly, an exceptional epicurean experience awaits.
Inc. VAT£1,272.83 -
James Suckling (98)
An Amarone for the future with terrific richness and tannin power, offering dried fruit, figs, blackberries, bark, mushrooms and hints of wood. Full-bodied and very structured with a powerful finish. It needs a lot of time to come around. Try it after 2024.Inc. VAT£855.79 -
Decanter (97)
This remarkable Amarone won the very highest acclaim from its original judging panel and then sailed through every subsequent judging stage, to the extent that its appearance in our Best In Show collection was never seriously in doubt. It’s already over five years old, but is still very dark in the glass -- and it’s a wine of remarkable aromatic complexity, too. Amarone-lovers will know just how many allusions these wines are capable of evoking, and it’s not hard to make out mushrooms, forest underbrush, truffle, Havana leaf and even woodland violets as well as the more usual confit cherries and plums in this wine’s aromatic profile. In the mouth, the wine is remarkably concentrated yet elegant, carrying that bundle of allusions effortlessly and seamlessly through the palate. Fine-beaded tannins lend support, and the concentration of fruit is such that any overt acidity is almost an afterthought.Inc. VAT£703.39
-
Captured from the illustrious Italian region of Veneto, the Sansonina Merlot 2001 embodies the epitome of finesse and structure, characteristic to its famed lineage. Significantly influenced by the unique terroir, this vibrant ruby red Merlot boasts exquisite aromas of sweet spices, blackberries, and understated earthy nuances.
The grapes, harvested meticulously in late September, underwent a long maceration and were subsequently aged in small oak barrels. The employment of these traditional vinification methods imparts the Sansonina Merlot 2001 a velvety texture with an elegant balance of tannin and acidity.
This prestigious creation is a testament to the Sansonina estate's unfaltering commitment to excellence. Renowned for its artisanal approach, this female-led boutique winery, managed by the brilliant minds of Nadia Zenato and her mother Carla, endeavours to engrave their indelible mark on each vintage they produce. Experience sans pareil with the Sansonina Merlot 2001, a wine to treasure for the discerning connoisseur.
In Bond£355.00 -
Experience the grandeur of Italian viticulture with the Secondo Marco Amarone della Valpolicella 2013, a wine that exemplifies the authenticity and craftsmanship that only a dedicated vintner can achieve. Produced by legendary winemaking artist Marco dalla Stella, this remarkable vintage hails from Italy's famous Valpolicella region.
Each hand-picked grape undergoes a traditional appassimento drying process before being meticulously fermented and matured for 36 months in Slavonian oak barrels. The result is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation that shines through in the wine's intense ruby red hue, structured body, and complex aromatics.
The Secondo Marco Amarone della Valpolicella 2013 captivates with its layers of black cherry, dried fig, and sweet spices, rounding off with a sophisticated finish that leaves your taste buds yearning for more. This is truly a masterpiece expressing the very soul and essence of Valpolicella.
In Bond£897.00 -
Savour the sublime experience of the Secondo Marco Valpolicella Classico 2017, crafted meticulously in the picturesque vineyards of Veneto, Italy. This resplendent red wine embodies the quintessence of traditional Italian winemaking partnered seamlessly with modern viticulture techniques. Conjured from the revered Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara grape varietals, it exhibits a delightfully progressive character, an audacious initiative by the venerated winemaker, Marco Speri.
Proudly bearing the Classico designation, the Secondo Marco Valpolicella 2017 confirms its origins within the original Valpolicella production zone. Marco, the sixth generation of the Speri family lineage, pays homage to the time-honoured traditions with this elegant vintage. Possessing an unrivalled richness, it offers a harmonious interplay of black cherry and ripe plum notes intensified by a spicy undercurrent. The ageing in Slavonian oak barrels amplifies its magnificent depth and rounded tannins.
Ebullient and complex, the Secondo Marco Valpolicella Classico 2017 is nothing short of a vinous masterpiece, a corroborated testament to Marco's virtuosa in winemaking.
In Bond£248.00 -
Immerse your palate in the world of luxury with the Secondo Marco Valpolicella Classico 2019, a true testament to Italian winemaking artistry. Crafted in the prestigious Valpolicella region of Veneto, Italy, this red wine boasts an exquisite blend of Corvina, Rondinella and Molinara grapes. Producer Marco Mosconi’s meticulous attention to detail manifests in the traditional 'pergola veronese' training of vines, limited yield per hectare and separately vinifying the grapes of each vineyard, resulting in a vibrant wine with a splendid balance of freshness and complexity.
Its elegant bouquet brims with lush dark cherries, aromatic herbs, and wild spices, an olfactory pleasure beautifully resonating its terroir. In the mouth, it reveals enticing flavours of ripe red fruits, peppery notes and a touch of minerality. The tannins are soft, lending a well-rounded finish to this splendid vintage. Capture Italian sophistication and revel in the divine character of Secondo Marco Valpolicella Classico 2019.
In Bond£157.00 -
Vinous (91+)
The 2005 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Vigneto Monte Sant'Urbano is one of the standouts in this difficult Amarone vintage. The wine possesses remarkable clarity and precision in a medium-bodied, focused style. Suggestions of amarena cherries, menthol, spices and minerals emerge with air, adding further complexity. The Monte Sant(Urbano is one of more accessible Amarones in its medium-bodied, lithe structure, but the overall balance here is beyond question. This is a wonderful effort from Speri.In Bond£875.00 -
Vinous (93+)
The 2008 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Vigneto Monte Sant' Urbano is a real powerhouse. Readers will have to be patient with the 2008. Massive yet nicely integrated tannins support the fruit in a huge, hulking Amarone that holds considerable promise. Mocha, sweet Morello cherries, cloves and crushed rocks emerge over time, but only reluctantly. I can't wait to taste this with a little bottle age. A bottle opened before its tenth birthday is likely to be only partially fulfilling.In Bond£800.00 -
Vinous (93)
Dark ruby with a pale rim. Penetrating red cherry, cinnamon, minerals and botanical herbs on the perfumed, captivating nose; this has a strong aromatic quality that I rarely find in Amarone. Then slightly more austere in the mouth, with strong herbal elements adding a savory component to the ripe but vibrant red fruit flavors. Finishes long with a firm tannic spine, young, chewy tannins, and hints of gunflint. A knockout Amarone and one of the early candidates for wine of the vintage in the difficult 2012 vintage.In Bond£189.00 -
Vinous (95)
The 2016 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Sant'Urbano takes some time to blossom in the glass, as mineral-tinged blackberry evolves into a display of currants and cherries complemented by hints of sweet mint, lavender and violets. It’s velvety in texture and savory to the core, coasting dark red and black fruits across a medium-bodied frame, contrasted by vibrant acids, as grippy tannins form up toward the close. This finishes youthfully structured yet amazingly long, with echoes of licorice and purple inner florals. The 2016 is geared for the cellar, and in need of some time to soften, but my expectations are very high.In Bond£275.00 -
Introducing the transcendent Speri Amarone Valpolicella Classico Monte Sant Urbano 2019. Exuding generations of carefully honed expertise, this Italian wine is extraordinarily crafted by the acclaimed Speri Winery, nestled within the heart of Valpolicella. Recognised for their meticulous approach to viticulture and sustainability, the Speri family underscores tradition, using indigenous grapes meticulously harvested from Monte Sant'Urbano vineyard.
Decadently rich and impeccably polished, the 2019 vintage teases the palate with a fragrant bouquet of dark cherries, spicy notes, and relaxed tannins. The marvel of this Classico lies in its aging process; grapes are dried for 100 days, after which traditional native fermentation follow before indulging in a 36-month sojourn in Slavonian oak barrels.
Bask in the intrinsic elegance that permeates every glass of the Speri Amarone Valpolicella Classico Monte Sant Urbano 2019. Revel in the enchanting complexity and striking depth that make it a glistening jewel in any connoisseur's collection.
In Bond£460.00 -
Revel in the exquisite Venissa Bianco 2014, an exceptional vintage from the esteemed Venetian winery, Venissa. Delicately crafted on the idyllic Mazzorbo Island, the vineyard flourishes in a walled vineyard, allowing a unique bio-diversity. This superlative spirit, harvested from century-old Dorona di Venezia vines, undergoes an extended maceration process and is then refined in French oak barrels. The result is an enchanting white wine boasting remarkable mineral quality and intriguing salinity.
The Venissa Bianco 2014 exudes an inviting golden hue with an enticing aroma of ripe fruits and a hint of spice. Sip to unveil a beautifully complex palate and finish, marked by notes of almond and honey. Its producer, Venissa, is renowned for their dedicated revival of the near-extinct Dorona di Venezia grape, showcasing their commitment to preserving historic wine traditions.
A true testament to Italian viticulture, the Venissa Bianco 2014 is a must-try for any discerning wine aficionado.
In Bond£1,050.00 -
Crafting a true masterpiece, the Venissa Bianco 2015 hails from the Venetian lagoon's storied vineyards on the island of Mazzorbo. This ethereal offering, meticulously produced by the prestigious Bisol family, elegantly embodies the unique terroir of its origins.
The Venissa Bianco 2015 captivates with its rarity and exclusivity, being crafted entirely of the ancient and near-extinct Dorona grape, with only 4000 bottles produced. Employing traditional winemaking techniques, this wine rested for two years in ancient clay amphorae and cement tanks before meeting the world.
Expressing a golden hue, this wine dazzles your senses with complex aromas of honey, nuts, and tropical fruits, balanced beautifully by a savoury minerality. The palate is rich and seductive, drawn out in a long, thought-provoking finish. An enchanting exemplification of Venissian mastery, the Venissa Bianco 2015 pairs perfectly with fine Mediterranean cuisine, while offering vibrant cellaring potential.
Unquestionably, the Venissa Bianco 2015 is a resplendent embodiment of Dorona's indomitable spirit and Bisol's heritage-driven passion.
In Bond£665.00 -
The splendour of Venissa Rosso 2011, a notably distinguished Italian red, showcases the mastery of world-renowned producers, Bisol. An impeccable fusion of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, this exclusivity is a paragon of the splendid wines of Venetian Lagoon's Mazzorbo Island. Raised with meticulous care in the historical walled vineyard, this ruby-red vino unveils a robust bouquet of sun-kissed berries, harmoniously balanced by subtle notes of earthy spice.
After a loving harvest, the grapes are expertly macerated and matured in French oak barriques for over two years, underscoring the rich taste profiles. This punctuated by the fascinating touch of salinity from the unique terroir helps underscore its one-of-a-kind specificity. Opulent in taste and aroma, the incomparable Venissa Rosso 2011 merits a place in any devoted oenophile's collection. Savour its unparalleled richness and relish the intricate journey of every sip. Truly, an exceptional epicurean experience awaits.
In Bond£1,050.00 -
James Suckling (98)
An Amarone for the future with terrific richness and tannin power, offering dried fruit, figs, blackberries, bark, mushrooms and hints of wood. Full-bodied and very structured with a powerful finish. It needs a lot of time to come around. Try it after 2024.In Bond£692.00 -
Decanter (97)
This remarkable Amarone won the very highest acclaim from its original judging panel and then sailed through every subsequent judging stage, to the extent that its appearance in our Best In Show collection was never seriously in doubt. It’s already over five years old, but is still very dark in the glass -- and it’s a wine of remarkable aromatic complexity, too. Amarone-lovers will know just how many allusions these wines are capable of evoking, and it’s not hard to make out mushrooms, forest underbrush, truffle, Havana leaf and even woodland violets as well as the more usual confit cherries and plums in this wine’s aromatic profile. In the mouth, the wine is remarkably concentrated yet elegant, carrying that bundle of allusions effortlessly and seamlessly through the palate. Fine-beaded tannins lend support, and the concentration of fruit is such that any overt acidity is almost an afterthought.In Bond£565.00
