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.

Top winemaker Andrea Bernardini has discovered just how to get the most from the superb Nero di Troia grape. The result is the deliciously dark, velvety Corsiero. No need to blend Nero di Troia with softer varieties – gently pressed and carefully vinified, it makes a seductive, deeply flavoured, fruit-rich red. Nero di Troia is named after the town of Troia in northern Puglia, said to have been founded by Greek hero Diomedes, famous for helping to defeat the city of Troy in Asia Minor (yes, the grape really is that old!). Just outside Troia, the story goes, Diomedes planted vine cuttings named Nero after the dark colour of the grape skins and the deep-hued wine. Rich, warming Corsiero is perfect with rich pasta dishes, game or hearty stew.

Top winemaker Andrea Bernardini has discovered just how to get the most from the superb Nero di Troia grape. The result is the deliciously dark, velvety Corsiero. No need to blend Nero di Troia with softer varieties – gently pressed and carefully vinified, it makes a seductive, deeply flavoured, fruit-rich red. Nero di Troia is named after the town of Troia in northern Puglia, said to have been founded by Greek hero Diomedes, famous for helping to defeat the city of Troy in Asia Minor (yes, the grape really is that old!). Just outside Troia, the story goes, Diomedes planted vine cuttings named Nero after the dark colour of the grape skins and the deep-hued wine. Rich, warming Corsiero is perfect with rich pasta dishes, game or hearty stew.

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

If it weren’t for Angelo Maci, many of the last remaining century-old vines in Puglia would have been uprooted by now.