Tasting Notes for the Afternoon's Wines

At this event we had four delicious wines clash against each other in a titanic struggle to decide who would take the crown for Italian wine – is it to be the northern classics, or the southern upstarts? Here’s a handy reminder of the wines we all enjoyed; you can purchase them by following the links in the headings.

To see what other exciting events we have on the horizon, please visit our Events page.

White

North: Ke Bontà Gavi, Piemonte

A style as classic as it gets! Cortese grapes are grown all over Piemonte, but the vineyards surrounding Gavi itself are considered the best. This wine is light and fresh, with zesty citrus fruit and floral notes, as well as hints of apple and pear. Steely acidity and an underlying mineral character are balanced by notes of melon and stone fruit.

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South: San Marzano 'Edda Lei Bianco', Puglia

The San Marzano Cooperative in Salento has been turning out high quality wines since 1962. This blend of Chardonnay, Fiano and Moscatel is rich and decadent, with aromas of sun-ripened peach and mellow floral notes, interwoven with delicate hints of vanilla. Fresh and beautifully balanced, the rounded palate is elegantly styled and has a touch of minerality on the finish.

Red

North: San Silvestro Appassimento Barbera, Piemonte

Established in 1871 by Giovanni Sartirano, San Silvestro has been passed down through four generations and holds the Equalitas certification for its sustainably cultivated vineyards in Comune di Novello, Piemonte. This elegant, silky Barbera, made from partially dried grapes, has ripe blueberry and cherry jam flavours complemented by delicate toasty notes. Richly fruited with beautiful balance.

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South: San Marzano 'Susco' Susumaniello, Puglia

It's San Marzano once again representing the south of Italy with distinction! This intriguing wine is made with the grape Susumaniello, which is indigenous to Puglia. It has an idiosyncratic nose, with floral notes, red berried fruit and spicy balsamic nuances interwoven through a finely textured and elegant palate.