Ultima Edizione started a few years back as a special project from the Farnese cellar. Based in an ancient castle in Abruzzo, the cellar has a terrific reputation and has been named Italy’s ‘Winery of the Year’ three times. We've been working with them for many years and for this wine we gave them free rein to produce the best red possible, regardless of region.

Talented winemaker today is Dennis Verdecchia, who cherry picked tiny parcels of premium soft, ripe Montepulciano and Sangiovese from Abruzzo, and dark Primitivo and spicy Negroamaro from sun-baked vineyards in Puglia in the south. Barrel ageing, then blending has produced this intensely flavoured, velvety red. Weighty, it’s best with roasted pork belly or a rich casserole.

What’s not to adore about Prosecco? All those sophisticated bubbles, yet brighter, more fruity and affordable than Champagne. Il Papavero Prosecco is the latest addition to our ‘poppy’ range of wines, and already boasts an army of thirsty fans – it’s just so irresistible.

But that should come as no surprise when you consider the heritage of winemaker Scipione Giuliani. This maestro was born in the very heart of the Prosecco region. A true local, he knows all the best winegrowers and went straight to the region's very finest vineyards (usually owned by long-standing friends) to source the fruit for this fine fizz. Just one sip will transport you to a smart Venetian piazza. Great value, delicious taste – chill your bottle down and enjoy.

When you ask Alessandro Gallici if he comes from a family of winemakers, he laughs gently at the notion. Not at all, but his family had a bit of land in Friuli, with a few rows of vines, that had been theirs for generations. From the grapes of these, they made a simple wine for their own dinner table. All this fascinated Alessandro, and wine became his chosen career. And we're glad it did. We've known Alessandro since 2002 and love every new wine he sends our way.

For this fizz Alessandro carefully selected Glera grapes with a drop of Chardonnay. In Champagne, this would add to the price – in the Veneto this addition means it can't be labelled Prosecco, but frizzante. Whatever, it delivers citrus, tropical fruit with gentle bubbles.