This is what the Fabbri family have been drinking at home since the 1780s. Essentially our ‘house’ red, Savignola Paolina’s Rosso is Sangiovese in a sunny mood – medium in body but with enough gusto to hold its own against most meat dishes.

Made by a co-operative up in the hills of Campania, this is a rich, soft red with splashes of red fruit, tobacco and black pepper and a long, spicy finish.

The Cortese grapes that go into Pisé are selected by hand from some of the oldest vines on the estate before the wine is left on its lees for six months, developing ripe fruit, honey and bread crust flavours and an attractive weight on the palate.

Domaine de la Paleine made the most of the excellent 2005 vintage with this full expression of chenin blanc that manages to keep a surprising balance between powerful fruit and good acidity. Notes of honey, orange blossom, spice and almonds suit any aperitif, or in particular food with a bit of spice to it.  

Eight months in barrique brings the cabernet to the fore, offering classic plum and berry notes, whilst the native negroamaro holds things together with the low notes, adding an earthy blend of herbs and spices and a real sense of the south. 

About as good as it gets in terms of authentic Classico, this riserva takes San Giusto's Chianti a step further with rigorous grape selection from selected vineyards, a higher percentage of Sangiovese, and a longer ageing period - this time in new oak. A rich, punchy and concentrated style with bramble and plum flavours and a strong backbone.

One of Paleine's 'niche' prestige wines, the Moderato is a formidable red. Only produced in the best vintages, and with very low yields, it strikes a perfect balance between woody richness and the fresh crispness typical of Cabernet Franc. A dense, smooth, extracted wine, high in alcohol but very well-integrated. One for keeping.

The Sangiovese lucky enough to become Percarlo is specially selected from six cru zones marked out from the remainder of the estate by their aspect and sandy soil.