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.

After all, right across Italy Prosecco is the bubbly of choice and as much a part of daily life as gelato or an espresso.

This wine is from northern Italy's Alessandro Gallici. He knows every grape grower worth knowing, every premium vineyard, and has spent his life making outstanding wines.

We first met him when he was head winemaker at a large winery. Every vintage, he'd impress us, but he was also keen to go out on his own.

We were delighted and promised we'd be his first customer. We're still championing his great wines today.

His fizz is beautifully fresh and, served chilled, makes a tasty aperitivo.

To celebrate our years of friendship and to mark the company's 50th year, Alessandro created a special Prosecco worthy of this anniversary. And so, Prosecco Millesimato was born.

Made entirely from the Glera grape and sourced from the finest organic vineyards in the village of Ronade, this sparkling gem is given its fizz by the special charmat method.

It’s long and toasty with ripe peach fruit.

Initially intended as a limited edition to commemorate a significant milestone, the Prosecco Anniversario was so popular, it now has a permanent place in our range.

We’ve worked with the genial Alessandro Gallici for over 20 years.

Every vintage he produces a superb range of both still and sparkling wines that our customers and staff adore. And this year, he's gone a step further – producing this gorgeous rosato edition.

It uses only specially selected, fine organic grapes, taken from around the village of Roncade and is given its fizz by the special charmat method.

Alessandro’s standard Prosecco is hugely popular to enjoy any time. And we know this fine vintage rosato version will be a big hit too!

It has appealing ripe peach fruit, bright, fresh red berry flavour and a fine stream of bubbles.

Chill down, then find a reason to open a bottle (or two)! It makes a particularly delicious aperitif.

Thanks to snowmelt from the Andes and the wonders of irrigation, green and flourishing vineyards stand out in contrast to their lunar-like surroundings.

Alta Tierra is from Viña Falernia, owned by cousins Aldo Olivier and Giorgio Flessati.

They have 135 hectares of beautifully manicured vineyards and an ultra modern cellar. In 2005 their first vintage won a Trophy and put Elqui on the map.

This dazzling Sauvignon Blanc displays classic varietal character of elderflower and freshly mown grass with ripe melon and citrus fruit.

Serve as an aperitif or partner with spicy Asian dishes or fish.

Rarely, if ever, is it seen on its own. That didn’t deter José - a talented winemaker, credited by wine journo Tim Atkin as the man behind Portugal’s wine revolution.

José saw potential in this dark Portuguese star and his conviction has paid off. Aluado is now one of our customers’ favourite reds with over 1000 5-star reviews.

Winning Gold medals almost every vintage, Jose makes the wine at his family estate, Quinta de Porto Franco, just north of Lisbon.

A rich, velvety red, great solo or with grilled meats and stews.