2022 VALPOLICELLA, Allegrini. Veneto, Italy

Valpolicella is near Verona in north east Italy. Allegrini vineyards are on hillsides at 150-250 metres.

65% Corvina, 30% Rondinella, 5% Molinara. No oak used, bottled in February to retain maximum freshness.

Allegrini is a large family-owned estate of 90 hectares. They are the leaders of the current revival of the area, producing fresh, modern, attractive wines without losing all the sour-cherry, lemony-fresh, gently bitter characters that signify its regionality.

Drink young.

Normal Valpol is very comparable to normal Beaujolais – clean, lively, easy to drink. That can sometimes be a shock for youngsters brought up on sweeter New World styles. Above all this is a perfect lunchtime red, ideally cooled to 15C.

“Deliciously shiny-red, pure, unaffected red fruit – mouth-watering freshness. This is kicking cancans in the mouth it’s so full of energy and vibrant clarity. Tannins as light and graceful as willow sticks. Scrumptious wine. This is what simple Valpolicella should be all about.” Tamlyn Currie, on jancisrobinson.com