PREMIUM CASE WINE DESCRIPTION - JULY 2026
Mascarello – Langhe Nebbiolo DOC
Robert Parker - Wine Advocate 92
Grape: Nebbiolo, Piedmont’s most iconic red grape, prized for its aromatic depth, structure, and ability to translate terroir with precision.
Learn more on our blog: EXPLORING NEBBIOLO THROUGH FOUR HISTORIC APPELLATIONS
Region: Langhe, Piedmont. Vineyards around Monforte d’Alba and surrounding hills, where calcareous marl soils and varying exposures give balance between power and finesse.
Tasting Notes: Bright ruby red with garnet reflections. Aromas of red cherry, raspberry, rose petals, dried herbs, and subtle spice. The palate is elegant and firm, with fine tannins, lively acidity, and a long, linear finish.
Vinification & Ageing: Traditional fermentation in stainless steel or concrete with extended maceration, followed by ageing in large neutral oak casks to preserve purity and structure.
Ageing Potential: 5–8 years.
Food Pairing: Roasted meats, mushroom dishes, truffle pasta, game, and medium-aged cheeses.
Fun Fact: The Mascarello family is one of the historic names of Barolo, known for a deeply traditional approach that prioritises transparency of vineyard character.
Discover more about this producer: Mascarello Giuseppe e Figlio
Contadi Castaldi – Rosé Franciacorta Brut DOCG
Grape: Chardonnay and Pinot Nero, classic sparkling wine varieties used for structured, elegant traditional method wines.
Region: Franciacorta, Lombardy. Morainic soils of glacial origin combined with a temperate climate create ideal conditions for refined, high-quality sparkling wines.
Tasting Notes: Soft pink with fine, persistent bubbles. Aromas of wild strawberry, raspberry, citrus zest, and subtle brioche. The palate is fresh and creamy, with vibrant acidity and a clean, elegant finish.
Vinification & Ageing: Traditional method (second fermentation in bottle) with extended lees ageing to develop complexity and fine mousse.
Ageing Potential: 3–5 years.
Food Pairing: Aperitivo, shellfish, light pasta dishes, and cured meats.
Fun Fact: Franciacorta is Italy’s only sparkling wine region whose production rules are exclusively based on the traditional method.
Learn more on our blog: BUBBLES FOR EVERY MOOD: ITALIAN STYLE
Discover more about this producer: Contadi Castaldi
Abbazia di Novacella – Lagrein Riserva Praepositus Alto Adige DOC
Grape: Lagrein, a native South Tyrolean red grape known for its deep colour, structure, and rich yet fresh profile.
Region: Alto Adige, Trentino-Alto Adige. Vineyards around Bressanone benefit from alpine diurnal shifts, giving wines both ripeness and freshness.
Learn more on our blog: TRENTINO-ALTO ADIGE
Tasting Notes: Deep ruby to inky purple. Aromas of blackberry, black cherry, violet, cocoa, and subtle spice. Full-bodied yet refined, with velvety tannins, fresh acidity, and a long, harmonious finish.
Vinification & Ageing: Fermented in stainless steel, followed by ageing in large oak casks and barriques depending on vintage, with additional bottle ageing for the Riserva.
Ageing Potential: 8–12 years.
Food Pairing: Braised meats, game, grilled beef, rich pasta dishes, and aged alpine cheeses.
Fun Fact: The Praepositus line represents the historic premium selections of Abbazia di Novacella, one of the oldest active monasteries and wine estates in the world, founded in 1142.
Learn more on our blog: A VISIT TO ABBAZIA DI NOVACELLA
Discover more about this producer: Abbazia di Novacella
