So you didn’t make it to Italy again this summer. Well, there’s always next year, right? No matter, you can still enjoy some of the country’s gifts to us with a wonderful spread of Italian fare and, most importantly, good wine for a nice price. Cheers and enjoy! 

Monsanto 2014 Chianti Classico Reserva

Grape(s): 90% Sangiovese, 10% Canaiolo and Colorino.

Region: Tuscany, Italy

Price: 20-25

Tasting Notes:

One is hit by aromas of tart red cherries and red currants, along with accents of mint and spice on the nose. The lively red fruit returns on that palate, highlighting cherry and red plum, and then hints of fresh herbs and spice follow. Rather smooth, with polished tannins, but still dry, quite bright, and layered, it’s ideal for a classic Titania dish, like puttanesca.

Rating: 90

Gagliole 2015 Chianti Classico

Grape(s): 90% Sangiovese & 10% Merlot

Region: Tuscany, Italy

Price: 15-20

Tasting Notes:

The nose brings together aromas of cherries and plums with accents of rose petal and tobacco leaf. Flavors of bing cherry and plum combine with elements of floral earth, tobacco, and herbs on the palate. Polish tannins and nice layers make this a stand out wine for the price.

Rating: 91

Cantina Zaccagnini 2015 Montepulciano d’ Abruzzo

Grape(s): 100% Montepulciano

Region: Bolognana, Italy

Price: 10-15

Tasting Notes:

Dried cherries and plums play among expressions of leather and vanilla on the nose. Plush tannins frame flavors of tart cherry and red plum that flow into elements of leather, vanilla, and spring flowers on the palate. This offers solid character for under $15.

Rating: 89

Cala De Poeti I.G.T. 2017 Pinot Grigio

Grape(s): 100% Pinot Grigio

Region: Italy

Price: 5-10

Tasting Notes:

Apples, nectarines, and melons dominate on the nose. The palate offers flavors of green apple, melon, and nectarine, along with hints of minerals. Quite friendly and not overly dry, it’s a good buy for the price.

Rating: 89