GaglioleValletta 2014

Valletta is named after La Valletta, a property in Panzano that the Gagliole estate bought in 2011. It sits in the Conca d'Oro, a valley shaped like a golden shell. Sangiovese and Merlot share the blend.

In the glass, the colour is a deep ruby. Lean in and you find ripe black fruit, liquorice, a little spice and a whiff of tobacco. On the first sip it feels dense and glides over the tongue, and coffee and dark chocolate linger long after you swallow.

Serve it at 16-18°C, ideally with the bottle opened an hour ahead, alongside grilled steak or braised beef. A red for a long table and slow conversation, when you want something dark and warming.