Sei Rossi Italiani: A take of Italian red in 6 Varieties - February's Curious Case

They come in many different guises - fancy getting to know them a bit better?

How do you try and paint a picture of Italian reds in just 6 wines? When you think og all the different regions, grapes and winemaking methods that's no easy task. Nonetheless, for our February Curious Case we're going to give it a go, taking you on a journey from Piedmont to Sicily through six distinctive varieties that show just how varied Italian reds can be.

Corvina - Bright, juicy and effortlessly drinkable:

We start in Veneto with Alpha Zeta's Valpolicella, where Corvina shows its lighter, fresher side. Expect cherry and redcurrant fruit with a touch of almond, carried on soft tannins and lively acidity. Light in body but full of character, it's refreshing and inviting.

Nerello Mascalese - Elegant, mineral and volcanic-born:

From the slopes of Mount Etna comes Luna Gaia's Logistilla, a wine that captures Sicily's cooler, more restrained character. Red berries meet earthy minerality, with fine tannins and refreshing lift. This is Sicily showing finesse rather than power, shaped by volcanic soils and altitude.

Sangiovese - Tuscany's versatile, food-friendly classic:

Castello Romitorio's Brio delivers everything you want from Sangiovese - bright cherry fruit, savoury herbs and that characteristic tangy edge. Oak adds a gentle framework, but the grape's natural freshness stays front and centre. Versatile enough for everyday drinking, but with depth enough to keep things interesting.

Montepulciano - Soft, approachable with fruity generosity:

Amoterra's Montepulciano d'Abruzzo keeps it ripe, bright and satisfying. Plum and dark cherry flavours, velvety texture, no hard edges. Approachable Abruzzo with real flavour and character.

Nebbiolo - Structured, spicy and unmistakably Piedmontese:

San Silverstro's Nebbiolo d'Alba brings the classic character of the Alpine foothills - ripe cherry, warm spice and fine tannins given polish by time in large oak casks. It's got the structure and elegance you'd expect from Piedmont's signature grape, but approachable now rather than needing years in the cellar.

Primitivo - Ripe and warming, full and rich:

Down in Puglia, Produttori di Manduria's Lirica is where Primitivo shows its sun-soaked generosity. Dark fruit, spice and plush texture reflect the warmth and richness of Italy's deep south. A fitting way to show what southern Italian ripeness brings to the table.

Six wines, six regions, six distinct personalities. Together they offer a compelling snapshot of what makes Italian reds so endlessly fascinating - and a very good gateway into exploring them further.