Antonio Federici is a small, 3rd-generation cellar in Lazio, just south of Rome. As you'll taste here, its wines are both authentic and delicious. Normally, they only supply their meagre output to top restaurants in Rome.

But with most shut in 2020, we managed to gain a small allocation of this superb, cherry-scented red. And again, the following year. On fine limestone soils (the rocks of which were used to build some of Rome's most famous buildings) they grow some of Italy's most characterful native grapes.

From these they make a small range of award-winning wines. No doubt the skill of top Italian consultant Franco and Matteo Bernabei comes into play, as well as the commitment and passion of the family.

A silky, smooth, easy red.

Lying deep in the warmth of southern Italy, Puglia is a haven for authentic, rich reds that exceed expectations without breaking the bank. Our buyer, Leo, took great pleasure in reserving this wine, named after its talented winemaker Leonardo Palumbo. Winemaker Leo says it’s a rule of his family that you only put your name on the label of a wine you’re really delighted with. And he is!

This wine showcases a luscious, smooth blend of Puglia’s finest red grapes. Nero di Troia for elegant peppery fruit, Negroamaro for deep colour, ripe plum hints and structure, and Primitivo for damson hints and deeper bass notes. Together, they make the perfect ensemble – dark, ripe deliciousness. Best with grilled meats or a hearty veggie casserole.

Domaine Saint Michel is a small family run estate that for years has been supplying grapes to the mighty Chapoutier. One of the most prestigious names in the valley, Chapoutier would snap up the whole vintage to add richness to their own Côtes du Rhône. When new generation Vincent took over, he dearly wanted to bottle his own. He knew it was more than good enough.

Well, the beautiful property does lie close to top crus Rasteau, Vinsobres and Cairanne. It shares the same stony soils and arid climate as its neighbours and produces from 40 year old vineyards small concentrated grapes. That’s all the better for flavour and richness. Grenache, Syrah and Carignan combine in this tasty red. It's great on its own or with pasta with pesto, or chops.

The award-winning Casa Silva estate was founded by Emilio Bouchon who arrived in Chile from Bordeaux in 1892. Today, it's run by Mario Pablo Silva, who has made the property one of the leading estates in Chile. The family has pioneered new regions there and been at the forefront of research into viticulture. You can taste that expertise and enthusiasm in this red. A blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Carmenère, this 2019 Casa Silva is extremely smooth and juicy with fresh red berry and black cherry fruits.

First we brought you the (far from) standard Lobo e Falcão, with its dense ripe fruit and weight. It went down a storm, so a few years back we also introduced the Reserva edition. The wines are from an historic estate that has been in the same family for over 200 years. In the 17th century, it was the king’s falconry and special barrels of wine were kept aside for royal visits. Today, fourth-generation José Lobo de Vasconcelos (Lobo means wolf) heads up the property, with its expansive vineyards, some of which are over a 100 years old. The cellar remains one of the region’s most innovative, with Joana de Lopes as winemaker. Dark, spicy Syrah along with native varieties and a layer of creamy oak, this is a top choice for slow cooked beef.