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THE DEVINO SOCIETY JOURNAL

June 2026

Sommelier Selection · Reds

June celebrates Italy's remarkable diversity through six regional reds, from Alto Adige in the north to the sun-soaked vineyards of Puglia and Abruzzo. Together they showcase the richness, elegance and individuality that make Italian wine endlessly rewarding.

Sommelier's Note

This month's collection is a journey across Italy, highlighting both iconic appellations and lesser-known native varieties. Taste them side by side to experience how geography and tradition shape each bottle.


Italy
MADONNA DELLE VITTORIE
2023 Lagrein Dunkel D.O.P.
Deep, concentrated and beautifully expressive.
Tasting Notes

Blackberry, black cherry and dark cocoa layered with gentle spice and a velvety texture, finishing long and savoury.

Best Served With

Grilled steak, slow-cooked meats or aged hard cheeses.

From the Cellar

“Dunkel” means “dark” in German, referring to the grape's deeply coloured skins. Lagrein has been cultivated in northern Italy's Alpine valleys for centuries.


Italy
VECCHIA CANTINA
2021 Chianti Riserva D.O.C.G.
Structured, classic and quietly powerful.
Tasting Notes

Dark cherry, dried herbs and a touch of spice with firm tannins and a long, savoury finish.

Best Served With

Slow-cooked meats, ragù or aged cheeses.

From the Cellar

Riserva wines are aged longer before release, resulting in greater complexity and depth.


Italy
VALPINZANA
2022 Toscana Rosso
Warm, generous and full of character.
Tasting Notes

Ripe cherry, subtle earth and soft spice with a smooth, rounded finish.

Best Served With

Pasta, grilled meats or antipasto.

From the Cellar

Made from organically grown grapes, reflecting a more natural and sustainable approach to Tuscan winemaking.


Italy
LEONE DE CASTRIS
2022 Susumaniello Salento
Rich, ripe and distinctly southern.
Tasting Notes

Dark berries, plum and spice with a smooth texture and lingering warmth.

Best Served With

Roast meats, pizza or hearty dishes.

From the Cellar

Susumaniello was once nearly extinct and is now one of Puglia's most exciting revived native varieties.


Italy
GUERRIERI RIZZARDI
2023 Cuvée XV Bardolino D.O.C. Classico
Light, bright and beautifully lifted.
Tasting Notes

Red cherry, strawberry and a hint of herbs with a fresh, elegant finish.

Best Served With

Charcuterie, light pasta or aperitivo.

From the Cellar

Bardolino is often considered the lighter, more playful cousin of Valpolicella, made for easy drinking.


Italy
PIANTAFERRO
2023 Montepulciano d'Abruzzo D.O.C.
Smooth, juicy and crowd-pleasing.
Tasting Notes

Ripe plum, black cherry and gentle spice with soft tannins and an easy finish.

Best Served With

Pizza, pasta or everyday meals.

From the Cellar

Montepulciano refers to the grape, not the Tuscan town, and thrives in Abruzzo's coastal hills.


Continue Your Journey

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