Video One: Farnese Trebbiano d’Abruzzo 2007

Somehow the forgotten white of the Farnese range. I like to describe it as the poor man’s Chablis, realising it’s not French of course, but there are definite comparisons with an almost nutty, savoury character intermingling with those subtle fruit flavours. Trebbiano, known as Ugni-Blanc in France, accounts for around a third of all white grape plantings in Italy. Farnese picked up the IWSC Italian Winery of the Year three years running between ’05 & ’07.

For the following wines, click on the links provided for each to view videos.

Video Two: Ortonese Sangiovese Merlot 2008

Ortonese is Farnese’s entry-level label, the Sangiovese Merlot being the red sibling of the equally impressive white Malvasia. Be warned, Mike gets very excited about this wine. He really should have been born Italian.

Video Three: Domaine les Grands Presbyteres Muscadet 2008

I find Muscadet quite distinctive. Just as I was getting into wine I was thinking to myself I won’t forget this in a hurry. That lovely rounded mouthfeel is complimented by incredibly refreshing citrus flavours.

Video Four: Vega Lizarde Tinta de Toro 2007

Yours truly tastes our other popular Toro (Quinta el Refugio being the comparison), this time without any contact with oak, perhaps providing a fresher, easier drinking option. Watch out Rioja!

Video Five: The Ned Pinot Grigio 2008

You didn’t just think Marlborough made good Sauvignon Blanc, did you? For some of you this may be a style of PG that you’re not familiar with. You might describe it as a bit ‘chubby’ (in a good way). Again, food brings out the true colours in this wine.