Coming from the commune of Ronca in the heart of Garganega country, Monte Ronca is a creation of local specialist, Antonio Fattori, an acknowledged Soave-master. Most the fruit for wines comes from the hills to the north of this commune, a specific site called Monte Calvarino, which peaks at 680 m (the inactive volcano from which the wine takes its name). At this altitude, this beautiful cool site provides a perfect environment for a higher grade, single site Soave. The hills around Monte Calvarino (in comparative terms to the region in general) are particularly steep, and from a viticultural perspective, pose some challenges. But to Antonio, this is critical to capture depth of flavour and structure, as the best expressions of Soave are never found on the valley floor where it gets too warm. Here, the ancient volcanic soils impart a flinty minerality to the hand-harvested fruit, while in the cellar, lees stirring and subtle oak ageing and varying levels of appassimento add a rich texture and further complexity to the wine. Brilliant very pale straw almost water like colour with a subtle tinge of green around the outskirts. Jumping out of the glass are delightful pear, red apple and lime scents which are complimented by fresh herb and wet stone notes. The wonderfully mouth watering palate shows terrific intensity delivering pear and red apple fruits over lime, infusions of fresh herbs and wet stone characters. Beautiful, juicy textural feel finishing dry with crisp acidity and a long delicious aftertaste. Drink over the next year. Alc. 12.5%

Sauvignon Blanc meets Semillon and Riesling in a rare blend, a portion of which is then matured in new French oak. "Scents of lemon curd and quince, nashi pear and almonds. The palate is much more keen and quick, a zesty shiver of lemon-lime with pink grapefruit and faint almond/nougat notes. A vibrant, tightly wound and thirst-quenching expression on hand. Very pleasing."

This terrific Pinot Grigio comes from an award winning cellar established in 1949 in the village of Etyek, 50 kilometres from Budapest, and it shows just what fantastic quality and value Hungary offers. Famous for its regal sweet wine, named Tokaji, Hungary has in fact many strings to its bow, thanks in part to a 600 year history of growing Italian grape varieties. Winemaker Gábor Laczkó has proven himself an expert, crafting a range of thrilling wines under the Campanula label, named after the flower that grows wild in the vineyards. This refreshingly crisp, minerally Pinot Grigio has classic ripe pear, apricot and green apple character. Enjoy as a refreshing glass any time or with lighter dishes like tiger prawns or grilled salmon steak.

Gavi is one of Italy’s most elegant white wines – crisp, citrusy and adored the world over for its stony freshness. Promoted to DOCG status in 1998, it’s now widely recognised as Piedmont’s white ‘jewel in the crown’. The appellation lies in the rolling Monferrato hills and is home to the Cortese grape, which gives Gavi its hallmark finesse. Italian wine expert Burton Anderson once described Gavi as “an exemplary fish wine” – and we couldn’t agree more. Our Buyer for Italy, Leo, was impressed by this 2024 from the Vigne del Pareto estate. Zippy and refreshing, with a whisper of almond on the finish, it’s a brilliant aperitif and a natural with everything from seafood linguine to grilled prawns.

A Gold-winning, 92pt taste of one of Italy’s most characterful white grapes, Falanghina, best-known in the pricy whites of Campania. It also thrives in Sicily and in the abundant sunshine and sea breeze freshness of Puglia on Italy’s stiletto heel. Southern Italy’s Puglia region is well-known as a great source of authentic, rich reds that always represent good value. Less well-known are the characterful whites. This is one from the talented winemaker Leonardo Palumbo, whose family has a rule that you only put your name on the label of a wine you’re really delighted with. And he is! Traditionally fermented, this Falanghina shows classic notes of pear and apple, with hints of orange, wild herbs and blossom, with a pleasing roundness. Chill down and enjoy with seafood, salads or as an aperitivo.

Prosecco is a joyful fizz – currently exceptionally popular around the world! It’s kind on the pocket, and you can drink it whenever the fancy takes you! The Italians certainly do so do . This delightful example was sourced from vineyards in the Euganean Hills near Padua. Known locally as the ‘happy hills’, here life is sweet – la vita è dolce! – and vacationers flock to the promise of fun and good wine. These Glera vines grow on volcanic soils which lend crisp minerality to the lively, fruity character of Casa Cantalini. Pop the cork and out fizzes a fragrant ensemble of crisp orchard fruits and flinty freshness. It's a spumante, so it offers a steady stream of bubbles and is very moreish. Don’t wait for a celebration, enjoy a chilled glass any time.