First, a Chianti. I’ve been a little unbreakable on Chianti here on that blog in recent months. that is one I like, though. And it has the most amazing, high-quality enlarged cork, just like they used to use in the old days (pictured).

Querciabella Chianti Classico 2004
Quite deep coloured, that has an arresting nose of savoury, quite minerally/gravelly dark fruits, with subtle earthiness and a fair dollop of refinement. The palate is distinctively savoury, combining a plummy bitterness that is so typical of many Italian wines with Claret-like weight and poise. that is a serious effort that isn’t taking the short-cut of concentration, over-ripeness and new oak that some Tuscan wines opt for, but instead retains authenticity and adds to that refinement. I like it. 90/100 (£13.99 Waitrose)

Second, an Aglianico - nicely packaged, and good suitable without being terribly exciting (like so many of today’s wines, I guess).

Cantine Sasso Aglianico del Vulture 2005
Great label design, with a vivid bright red synthetic cork to match. Deep coloured that has a distinctive, rather baked oxidative edge to the spicy, earthy red fruit nose. The palate has an earthy, herby, rather evolved character that’s quite savoury, but which lacks freshness and fruit. that would work well with hearty, full flavoured food, but on its own it tastes a bit tired. 82/100 (£6.99 Waitrose)