In August 2024, I went to an Italian wine tasting at my local Majestic in Woking, just a few doors down from the infamous Woking Pizza Express. It was an enjoyable evening, sampling a variety of Italian wines, including Franciacorta, Soave, Gavi, Greco Di Tufo, a Rosso Veronese, Chianti and a Brunello. Among these, a few wines stood out as particularly memorable.
Gavi Groppella La Chiara DOCG 2023 (12.5%)
Made entirely from 100% Cortese di Gavi grapes, I thought this wine was the best of the evening. The 45-year-old vines and the 10-month aging in 225-litre French oak barriques imparted a pleasing apricot and grapefruit aroma, with a mineral undertone and deep vanilla taste that were surprisingly prominent over the oak. This vanilla twist set it apart, making it a unique experience. £19.99 for a mix of six.
Triplica Greco Di Tufo DOCG 2022 (13%)
Produced by one of Italy’s most dynamic and talented winemakers, Alessandro Michelon, this wine brought tropical flavours to the forefront, with notes of mango, pear and citrus. It had more body than most Greco Di Tufos, making it a richer and more satisfying option. Priced at £9.99 for a mix of six.
Piccini Brunello Di Montalcino 2018 (14%)
This 100% Sangiovese wine of 2018 vintage earned Piccini a gold medal at the 2023 Global Sangiovese Masters awards. It featured smooth tannins and a ripe, fruit-driven character, with flavours of black cherry, blueberry, spice and liquorice. Unlike typical Brunellos that lean towards a fuller body, this one was more medium to full, making it easier to drink. £29.99 for a mix of six.
Masi ‘Campofiorin’ Rosso Veronese 2020 (13%)
This wine, made from Rondinella and Molinara grapes, underwent a second fermentation process with partially dried grapes, a technique known as “leggero appassimento,” which concentrates the flavour. With medium to full body, it offered notes of ripe cherry, with hints of tobacco, vanilla and cinnamon spice. It struck a balance between a standard Valpolicella and an Amarone in style, with a fruity, smooth profile and soft tannins. £13.99 for a mix of six.
I had been missing these local Majestic tastings, which I used to attend more than ten years ago. You often need to visit the store in person to get to know about these tastings, as not all of them are listed on the Majestic website.
