Oltrepo Pavese lies in southwest Lombardy, next to Piedmont, hence its former name, Old Piedmont. Castello di Cigognola is an impressive, 13th-century castle, lying high on a hill, overlooking the Scuropasso Valley, across to Emilia Romagna. No wonder, then, it was once a stronghold for feudal lords. Over the centuries, it has been a gathering place for politicians and philosophers and today it remains a tranquil spot. It is home to many artistic pursuits, including great wine. Gabriele Moratti is in charge today. Sustainably tended, the vineyards are in the process of organic conversion. Using all Barbera from their 30-year-old La Maga vineyard, the wine had a year's ageing in small barrels. A very fine red. Open early and decant, or age.

Founded in 1965 by Alfo Bartolommei, this remarkable family estate is one of the region’s star performers. It used to be part of the great Pieve Santa Restituta and is also a neighbour to the renowned Soldara. All in all, with its 21 hectares of vines, the property is perfectly situated to produce some of the very finest Brunellos. Every vintage, their wines gain top scores. Alfo’s three children – Paolo, Paola and Manuele – now run the estate, with grandson Giacomo as winemaker. They’ve been ratcheting up the quality in recent years, so it's remarkable how this domaine has remained relatively under the radar. Despite his youth and dynamism, Giacomo keeps methods fairly traditional, as well as organic. This is a mesmerising, complex red.

Piedmont's prized red is known for a demanding high price. However, when a winery (sorry we're forbidden to name to keep the price a competitive one for you) is keen to move a batch fast, it usually comes as a great deal, even when it's from such an applauded vintage. Antoni Galloni described it as "full of truly spectacular, breathtaking wines that capture all the pedigree of Barolo". The grapes are from the same hillsides as elite names, including the great Vajra, which worth HK$950 a bottle. Plus, this wine has received 90+ scores from both Robert Parker and James Suckling. It's a mesmerizing wine, long aged in barrel. Decant early to allow the dark chocolatey, cherry and violet notes to open.

Enjoy 50% off when ordering 6 bottles of Edizione Speciale Numerata N4 Cerviano-Merli Barolo 2016 today!

92pt Robert Parker 2021

93pt James Suckling 2021

To celebrate 25 great years of Pillastro, this special 25th anniversary edition uses the darkly spiced Primitivo grape that you know and love, but with extra oomph and intensity. The legendary Angelo Maci added two special parcels of grapes to the blend – a cuvée that enjoyed a full six months ageing in barrel for an extra spicy kick, and grapes that enjoyed extra hang time on the vines to ensure even more concentration and richness. The result? A velvety, lusciously deep spiced-berry Italian red, taken up a notch in intensity. It's amazing, take it home at 49% off now.