Bella Italia and La Dolce Vita! Welcome to the Greg Martellotto's pick for the Top 12 Italian red wines to buy today. Greg is one of only 400 Italian Wine Ambassadors in the world and certified by Vinitaly Academy. He has been traveling to Italy for more than three decades and knows where the best juice is coming from. In addition to his family heritage in Puglia, he has lived in Florence and typically spends 3-6 weeks per year in Oenotria. These wines all raised his eyebrows and they will certainly make an impression on you. Consider these wines among the best from each of their respective regions and certainly at the top of the quality and value chain.
Alla Salute!
2019 Talosa Alboreto Vino Nobile Di Montepulciano DOCG
The 2019 Talosa Alboreto Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG is a 94-point Tuscan masterpiece, showcasing the elegance and power of Sangiovese. Sourced from the prestigious Pietrose cru at 350–400 meters altitude, this wine benefits from ancient Pliocene soils, producing a complex and structured expression.
2019 Bruna Grimaldi Barolo Badarina Serralunga d’Alba
2019 Bruna Grimaldi Barolo Badarina – 94-Point Single-Vineyard Barolo.From the revered Badarina Cru in Serralunga d’Alba, this 94-point Barolo is the boldest and most structured wine in Bruna Grimaldi’s portfolio. Crafted by a female winemaker dedicated to sustainable viticulture, this Nebbiolo thrives near the legendary Francia Vineyard, home to Monfortino ($1,300+ bottle).
2019 Colle Nero Tra Di Noi Brunello Di Montalcino DOCG
This wine is an exclusive partnership with Terre Nere. With vineyards located next to Poggio di Sotto ($300/btl),this wine looks like one of the best values in Montalcino. Again, don't just take my word for it. James Suckling 95pts.
2019 Talosa Vino Nobile Di Montepulciano Riserva DOCG
Vino Nobile has a wonderful history supplying wines to the Vatican. Unfortunately, it sits 30 minutes away from Montalcino and in its significant shadow. I'll probably by singing this song from stunning hilltop town of Montepulciano until I die. But, if you know and love Brunello, you must try the top Sangiovese from this nearby town. Talosa is one of the top producers in the region and this reserva would easily cost >$100 if it had a Brunello label on it.
2019 Fattoria Le Pupille 'Poggio Valente' Morellino di Scansano Riserva
The 2019 Fattoria Le Pupille 'Poggio Valente' Morellino di Scansano Riserva is a top-tier Tuscan red. Made from Sangiovese, it captures the essence of the Morellino di Scansano region with rich fruit flavors, smooth tannins, and a touch of earthiness. Fattoria Le Pupille is known for its high-quality wines, and this Riserva showcases their expertise, offering a perfect balance of tradition and modern craftsmanship. A great choice for anyone seeking a refined Italian wine.
2021 Luciano Arduini Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOCG
I wish we could import more of this wine. Sadly, there's just not enough to go around. We're lucky to import two pallets per year. Some Amarone can be too alcoholic or too sweet for me. This one consistently finds a balance and we love supporting small family producers like Arduini. Once you find this wine, it will be as cozy as your favorite blanket.
2020 Scrimaglio Barbaresco
The 2020 Scrimaglio Barbaresco is patiently aged in bottles, exceeding regulatory standards. This careful process ensures they reach the market in their fullest expression, a testament to Scrimaglio's meticulous attention to the essential ingredient of wine: Time.
2015 Massimo Rattalino Barbaresco "Quarantadue42"
This is hands down one of my favorite Barbarescos in the store right now. If it's available at the time you read this, buy it. Massimo Rattalino is truly a hidden gem, and sadly, the secret is starting to get out. His craftsmanship and attention to detail are second to none. This wine has earned 97 points from Decanter, a well-deserved accolade that speaks to its exceptional quality. If you love Barbaresco, you won't want to miss this one.
2019 Notedincanto Brunello di Montalcino
Notedincanto is a standout producer in Montalcino, known for crafting expressive and elegant Brunellos. This 2019 vintage showcases the classic depth and structure of Sangiovese, with beautiful oak influence that’s well integrated. Despite its youth, the wine already reveals impressive complexity and balance. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy this refined Brunello now or cellar it for years to come.
2020 Mazzarosa Vere Novo Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC
Born from a bold vision during the global pandemic, Vere Novo is the highest-rated Montepulciano d’Abruzzo of 2020 and a testament to innovation. Crafted by renowned winemaker Riccardo Brighigna, twice named "Winemaker of the Year" in Abruzzo, this wine revives the ancient Whole Bunch technique—fermenting entire grape clusters to amplify aroma, structure, and finesse. The result? A Montepulciano unlike any other: softer, fruitier, yet deeply expressive of its Abruzzo roots. Awarded 97 points and a Platinum Medal by Decanter, placing it among the Top 150 wines in the world, and 93 points from James Suckling, Vere Novo is a revelation in elegance.
2015 Stroppiana Gabutti Bussia Barolo
Made from Nebbiolo grapes grown in rich soils, this wine has great structure and balance. It was aged in oak barrels for 3 years, developing aromas of cherry, rose, and spices. On the palate, it’s smooth with firm tannins and fresh acidity, leading to a long, satisfying finish. A classic Barolo that’s ready to enjoy now or age for years.
2020 Bibi Graetz Testamatta Rosso di Toscana IGT
Testamatta is a visionary expression of Tuscany’s most noble grape, Sangiovese. Crafted by the renowned artist-winemaker Bibi Graetz, this wine reflects a deep dedication to capturing the soul of old-vine vineyards across Tuscany. The 2020 vintage showcases the estate’s unwavering pursuit of elegance, purity, and terroir-driven character, offering a bold yet graceful interpretation of Tuscan heritage in every bottle.
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We bundled 12 of these wines into a single case. Buy them in a 12-bottle case here.
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