Italy

Italy is dear to both of us. Transcendent wines entwined inextricably to thousands of years of culture and culinary history, we feel proud and fortunate to represent our producers and are excited to be adding to the list.

Pizzo Coca, Valtellina, Lorenzo Manzzucconi

Lorenzo’s family are beekeepers and farmers. And, in spite of making magical and beguiling examples of Chiavennasca (Nebbiolo), Lorenzo is at heart a beekeeper and a farmer as well. Using organic practices and developing a deep understanding of the different requirements each of his sites requires, Lorenzo adjusts vinification dependent on cuvée, using a mix of oak, steel, concrete and resin. The results provide a wide gamut of flavours, showing off the wonders of the region and the fruit grown there. From the juicy and enticing entry level “Alpi” grown on the slopes above Lake Garda to the structured and perfumed Grumello Riserva, these are wines of discovery and joy. And they’re great with pizza. - Rich

Giuliana Vicini, Arbruzzo

Chiara Ciavolich’s aunt, Giuliana, allowed Chiara to inherit her vines in Arbruzzo only on the condition that she maintain it separate from the rest of the family’s holdings, a testimony to her independence and in defiance of the patriarchy. The winery was set up to be a beacon to women in the wine world and beyond, but also to remind folks what proper Arbruzzese table wines should be: honest and fresh and a perfect accompaniment to almost any meal. - Rich

Le Vigne di Eli, Etna

Ridiculously small parcel production from the slopes of Sicily’s active volcano, this project is part of a larger and more famous winery. Wines landing in December 2021. - Rich

Mitch Sokolin Est. 2016

Mitch is a native New Yorker who has travelled the world making wines. He has projects in Spain, Georgia, Australia and Italy. I met Mitch working for Mac Forbes in 2016. He did a couple of vintages for Mac previously. Mitch pops up all over the shop, he helps make wine with so many people and well known producers. He’s very well placed. Regarding Italy he lamented Italians distaste or mistrust of Dolcetto. His inspiration for this wine is Vajra, Bondonio, Chionetti & Abonna who make far more lifted and fragrant versions of Dolcetto. - Gus