Selva Capuzza Groppello 'San Biago' 2023

Grown almost exclusively on the south-western shores of Lake Garda, Groppello is one of northern Italy's more elusive grapes, its vines confined to a small pocket of Lombardy. Even lighter and fresher than its near neighbour Valpolicella, it shows here with bright cherry and strawberry fruit, lifted by a clean, peppery edge that keeps the palate lively. Gentle tannins and crisp acidity make it an easy, versatile choice, and a short chill sharpens its brightness still further. Rarely seen beyond its local area, it's firmly shaped by the climate and soils of its lakeside home.

Lightly chilled, it plays brilliantly with summer salads, grilled chicken or antipasti - the peppery lift keeping you on your toes.

A short drive south of Lake Garda, Selva Capuzza’s vineyards sit across three DOCs - Lugana, San Martino della Battaglia and Garda Classico - benefiting from altitude, cooling breezes and stony, well-drained soils. The Formentini family has made wine here since 1917, with around 35 hectares now under the direction of Luca Formentini. Overseeing every stage from vineyard to bottling, he focuses on sustainable methods and gives priority to local varieties such as Turbiana, Tuchì, Groppello, Barbera, Sangiovese and Marzemino. His approach has earned him recognition as Green Winemaker of the Year 2021 in Corriere della Sera’s 100 best winemakers in Italy guide.