The Sandrone family runs an outstanding museum program called Sibi et Paucis. This Latin name translates roughly as “for the few and favoured”. Each year, about 10 to 15% of the production of their Nebbiolo wines (Le Vigne, Aleste and Valmaggiore) is held back in the winery’s underground cellars under optimal aging conditions to provide this producer’s long-term clients with aged-release wines that are closer to maturity. It was Luciano Sandrone’s dream that one day, all his wines would be released only when they were ready to drink. Currently, the Sibi et Paucis wines are re-released six years after the vintage for Valmaggiore and 10 years after the vintage for the Barolos. It is a wonderful initiative, and each release comes with a stamp on the label to differentiate it from the original release. Below are the third-party notes pertaining to the re-released wines, i.e. they are all recent tastings and reviews. Having tasted the wines on more than one occasion, we can say categorically that they are all singing. In what was clearly a challenging year, Sandrone’s outstanding 2014 wines were among the highlights of the vintage (as many of our clients will already attest). Many journalists were quick to dismiss the year given the difficulties of the growing season, yet the best estates far outperformed initial expectations. As a winemaker friend of ours once said: “Time cuts out all the bullshit.” “It’s easy to focus on the great years,” Luciano told us when his 2014s were first released. “But the wines we make from the challenging years bring me the most satisfaction, the ones that make me the proudest.” Only an estate run by a driven perfectionist could reach such heights (the Sandrone family employed 38 people for farming when the average harvest at this time required only 22 pairs of vineyard hands). Waiting for the right moment to harvest, being willing to undertake a strong green harvest, and making a strict selection during the vintage all paid dividends.

The Ciabot Berton Langhe Nebbiolo DOC 3 Utin 2023 is a stunning expression of the classic Nebbiolo grape from Italy. Produced by the renowned Ciabot Berton winery, this vintage showcases the best of their terroir and winemaking techniques. On the nose, aromas of ripe red cherries, dried herbs, and subtle hints of leather and tobacco entice the senses. The wine is a beautiful ruby red in colour, with a medium body and elegant tannins. On the palate, there are flavours of juicy red fruits, earthy notes, and a touch of spice, all beautifully balanced by a refreshing acidity. The finish is long and lingering, leaving a lingering impression of finesse and complexity. This Langhe Nebbiolo is a true representation of the quality and craftsmanship of Ciabot Berton, and will only continue to improve with age. Enjoy now or cellar for the next 5-7 years.

The 2024 Pizzini La Familia La Volpe Nebbiolo from King Valley is a true representation of the region's exceptional winemaking. On the nose, this wine offers enticing aromas of ripe red cherries, rose petals, and hints of truffle. The vibrant garnet color is a testament to the wine's youth, while on the palate, the flavors of dark berries, plums, and a touch of cedar are balanced by firm tannins and a lively acidity. This Nebbiolo showcases the perfect balance between power and elegance, with a long and lingering finish that leaves a pleasant, earthy aftertaste. Produced by Pizzini Wines in 2024, this wine is a testament to their dedication to crafting exceptional wines in the Victoria region. Enjoy now, or cellar for a few years to experience its full potential.

Tasting impression: On the nose, the bouquet brings the typical notes of red fruits, plums and cherries.On the palate, it is delicate, velvety and well-balanced with its fresh acidity

On the nose, the bouquet brings the typical notes of red fruits, plums and cherries.On the palate, it is delicate, velvety and well-balanced with its fresh acidity.

On the nose, the bouquet brings the typical notes of red fruits, plums and cherries.On the palate, it is delicate, velvety and well-balanced with its fresh acidity.

Little Giant Little batch is the crafting of hand-made, small parcel wines representing unique varieties, vineyards, or wine styles. Little Batch provide a snapshot of the exciting innovations and blends that typify the current Australian wine scene innovative blends that are unusual and delicious and constantly over-deliver on quality.