The Region: Italy’s long, narrow peninsula reaches deep into the Mediterranean, basking in the relentless sunshine and welcoming warmth. Gentle sloping hillsides, rich mineral soils, the moderating breezes off of the Mediterranean waters and unique grape varieties work to make wonderful wines.

The Wine: Brunello is a large-berried variety of the Sangiovese grape, most famous in Brunello di Montalcino. Italy’s hot, dry climate allows Brunello to thrive, displaying great varietal character and intensity. The flavour profile of Sangiovese is fruity, with strong natural acidity, a firm and elegant to assertiveness and a robust finish that can extend surprisingly long. The aroma is generally subtle, with cherry, strawberry, blueberry, and violet notes.

The Food: Brunello shines in the company of assertively flavoured foods. Hard cheeses such as Asiago and Parmigiano Reggiano are splendid accompaniments and the wines backbone of acids and tannins make it work well with rich and spicy foods like Italian sausages or lasagna.

Ageing: Medium-bodied but boldly tannic and intense, this gripping wine will begin to open up after six months, but the richer flavours will take at least 18 months to show, with cherry and spice dominating the long, fruity finish.

Sweetness Code: 0 (dry)