INSIDER'S PICK: 2023 Az. Ag. SOTTIMANO VINO ROSSO 'MATE' (BRACHETTO) $21.99

We had considered placing this wine in the big Thanksgiving wine email that was just sent out, but decided it had to be tasted to be believed. Brachetto is a unique red grape variety to the Piedmont in Italy, more famous there for making a Moscato d'Asti-like wine, lightly fizzy with sweet red fruits. The grape has naturally flowery aromas, similar in many ways to the Ruche grape (also from the Piedmont) in that if you closed your eyes you could be convinced by the aromas that it was a white wine. Perhaps being driven by a general move away from sweetness/sugar in beverages, but we are seeing dry examples like this pop up more and more, and this is the most exciting one we've had by a fair margin. Pale-ish ruby in color, the aromas jump out quickly with loads of red flowers, orange citrus and hints of mint and darker spices. Patient drinkers or those that decant will start to get more red fruits and juicy cherry the longer it breathes. The palate is a surprising contrast to the aromas, more tart red fruits and savory herbs, bright fine tannins that give the finish a long mouthwatering finish. Would almost parallel the palate to a Cru Beaujolais or a still Lambrusco, and would pair it accordingly. Probably not like anything you've had before, and after tasting it you will likely want more of it in your life.

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