Tasting notes, May 16, 2026; More wines from Italy

                    Italy

NV Bisson Glera
On Sale for $22
Veneto / Italy
100% Glera
Though located in Liguria ,Bisson produces this lovely Prosecco from friends in the Veneto. Crisp and never too sweet, this is one of the best examples of the category. Enjoy alone or with salty snacks.
2025 Vajra Baudana Dragon
On Sale for $20
Serralunga / Langhe / Italy
Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Nascetta
The Vajra family of Barolo began their stewardship of the tiny Baudana property situated in the commune of Serralunga just over ten years ago and have faithfully maintained the quality and charm of this white field blend. The source vineyards are planted primarily to Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc along with smaller portions of Riesling and the Piemonte speciality Nascetta.
2024 Cieck Erbaluce di Caluso
On Sale for $20
Caluso / Canavese /  Italy
100% Erbaluce
50 year-old vines planted in loose, stony soils inform this bright interpretation of Erbaluce. The wine is fermented and aged in stainless steel, resting for 4 months in tank prior to bottling
2024 Ferrata Ceneris
On Sale for $28
Etna / Sicily / Italy
80% Carricante, 20% Catarrato
Influenced by the ashy, volcanic soils of Etna, Ferrata’s Ceneris showcases the minerality and brightness of its origin. All vinification and aging takes place in stainless steel, insuring the freshness and purity of the fruit.
2023 Ridolfi Rosso
On Sale for $28
Montalcino / Tuscany / Italy
100% Sangiovese
Rosso di Montalcino comes in a variety of styles and can often be a bit youthfully austere. Ridolfi takes a traditional approach with their Rosso, employing only large, neutral barrels for aging, which serves to soften and broaden the wine. Particularly fruit forward lots are selected during fermentation and destined for Ridolfi’s entry level bottling. The 2023 is drinking well now and should continue to provide enjoyment over the next 3 – 5 years.
2023 Ferrando Torrazza
On Sale for $25
Piedmont / Italy
65% Nebbiolo, 30% Barbera, 5% Neretta
A traditional blend from Lombardy, Ferrando’s Canavese Rosso offers the complex aromatics of Nebbiolo paired with the vibrant fruit of Barbera. The wine is vinified in stainless steel and aged in the same for 12 – 15 months.