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.

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

La Parrina is a tiny DOC, situated in the Orbetello peninsula on Italy’s Tuscan coast. It's part of the renowned Maremma zone and only one estate exists there – Antica Fattoria La Parrina. The wines are made by Valeria Vittori, a Montalcino winemaker renowned for her critically acclaimed HK$450 Brunello – so you know you are in good hands here.

Muraccio is Valeria’s special blend of Tuscany’s hero grape, Sangiovese, plus Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, all from vineyards close to the winery. Aged for 10 months in oak barriques before bottling, it has juicy red and black cherry flavours mingled with plummy fruit and notes of Mediterranean herbs. It’s a fullbodied wine with layers of deep flavour – yet wonderfully easy to drink. We love it. And we think you’ll love it too. We’re not the only ones who are impressed. The renowned international critic, Antonio Galloni, awarded Muraccio 92 points and called it “a real charmer”. James Suckling was equally impressed, awarding it 92 points as well.