Alasia Monferrato Nebbiolo 2023

Nebbiolo is the grape behind Piedmont's most prestigious - and priciest - reds, but if you fancy a more approachable and pocket-friendly introduction, this is a great place to start. It's got that classic pale brick red colour and those unmistakable sweet aromas of roses, tobacco, and spice. Ripe cherry and berry fruit take centre stage, while the finish brings a savoury, earthy complexity and fine-grained tannins.In contrast to its more serious, long-aged counterparts, this one's ready to go, offering all the character in a rewarding, early-drinking style.

Spot on with rich stews like slow-braised beef or lamb ragù, where its bright cherry fruit and fine tannins cut through beautifully. And meaty pasta dishes like pappardelle with wild boar also work a treat.

Alasia, is part of one of Piedmont's largest and most forward-thinking co-operatives and situated in the Monferrato hills in the heart of Barbera d'Asti territory. Here they work with 230 grower members to source quality grapes from around 690ha of vineyards. Despite their size they have a real family run feel about them thanks largely to the husband and wife management/winemaking team of Claudio Manera and Lella Burdese. Founded in 1954 by Livio Manera, father of the current director and winemaker Claudio, over the past 60 years they've become a major winemaking force in Piedmont.