Friday Wine Club Wine List - 24th April 2026
Thanks so much for joining me for a fantastic afternoon!
Sandro De Bruno Soave Colli Scaligeri. £27 at Amathus Drinks
A beautifully balanced northern Italian white made from 100% Garganega. Grown on volcanic soils at altitude, this wine combines ripe fruit with freshness and precision. Expect notes of melon, apricot and almond, alongside a gentle texture from extended lees ageing. The finish is bright, mineral and refreshing — a great example of Soave with added depth.
Il Renesi Roero Arneis. £12.50 at Marks and Spencer
From the hills of Piedmont, Arneis is a grape that’s quietly come back into the spotlight in recent years. This example shows its more textural side, with flavours of ripe pear, peach and a subtle almond note. Slightly softer in acidity than many Italian whites, it offers a rounded, gently waxy mouthfeel and a really interesting contrast to fresher styles.
Piccini Chianti Classico Reserva. £16.50 at Waitrose
A classic expression of Sangiovese from the heart of Tuscany. Bright red cherry fruit is combined with dried herbs and a savoury edge, supported by lively acidity and fine tannins. The extended ageing required for Riserva adds structure and integration, making this a versatile, food-friendly red with real character.
Cantina Paolini Nero d’Avola. £12.00 at The Good Wine Shop
From the warm climate of Sicily, Nero d’Avola produces generous, fruit-forward wines with plenty of character. This example shows ripe plum and dark berry flavours, with a smooth, rounded texture and softer acidity than the northern wines. Approachable and expressive, it’s a great introduction to southern Italian reds.
Valpolicella Ripassa Superiore. £8.99 at Lidl
Often described as a bridge between Valpolicella and Amarone, Ripasso gains its richness from a second fermentation on Amarone grape skins. This process adds depth, body and complexity, resulting in a wine with ripe cherry, dried fruit and spice. A great example of how winemaking can transform the style of a wine.
These wines were selected to showcase the diversity of Italy — from fresh, mineral whites in the north to richer, sun-filled reds from the south, with different grape varieties, climates and winemaking styles shaping each glass.
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Looking to bring some wine fun to your team or group?
This specially curated experience brings together exceptional wines and carefully crafted tapas, designed to showcase the art of pairing at its finest. Hosted in collaboration with our resident wine educator, you’ll be guided through a refined journey across Spain’s most celebrated regions — from the historic cellars of Jerez to the rich, sun-drenched vineyards of the mainland.
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