As we embrace autumn and the bounty of the British harvest, we caught up with one of our Italian wineries as they wrapped up this year’s vintage. In Montalcino, at Podere Le Ripi, winemaker Sebastian Nasello said that 2023 was a vintage full of surprises! Heavy rain in April and May, and a hailstorm in August, kept viticulturalists on their toes. However, despite reduced yields, the grapes showed wonderful acidity and the resulting wines promise great freshness and energy.

While we wait for these wines to mature in the winery, we are delighted to announce the arrival of their two new wines, 2021 ‘Attenti al Lupo’ and 2022 ‘Cappuccetto Rosa’. The former, an early-harvested 100% Sangiovese is inspired partly by the effects of climate change and partly by the desire to make a lively, energetic Sangiovese to bring out “raw and tastier flavours”. It’s the result of experimenting with various fermentation techniques, including the use of stems and semi-carbonic maceration. The latter is the first Rosato from this winery, also from 100% Sangiovese, a single-vineyard savoury expression perfect for these autumn months. These two wines join Le Ripi’s ‘Canna Torta’ to complete a trio of experimental wines with unique labels specially commissioned by a local artist to tell their story.

Add to your wine list below, or get in touch to request a sample.