Sensory profile Its dense, near-opaque saturation seems designed to conceal its true, underlying nature, yet it exudes a classic Bordeaux tonality that reassuringly presages beds of floral wealth. Opening its olfactory performance are scintillating flashes of peppery spice and exuberant floral nuances that summon into play violets, cyclamen, and hibiscus. More aeration enlivens sweeter essences of dried and caramelised fruit, like prune and carob, until the aromatic heart is revealed, redolent of varietally-faithful notes of wild blackberry and redcurrant preserves that linger on to infuse the palate. On entry, one is pleasantly surprised by the harmonious integration of all the components, by the fulness of the body, and by the level of warmth. Release of the aromas is near-instantaneous, and their progression lifts the tannins which, in turn, stimulate the taste buds on the pleasantly-bitterish finale. Pervasive throughout is a succulent flourish of wild red berryfruit and wild herb digestifs.

Pairings This noble fruit of the vine will serve as the finest companion to well-spiced, fat-rich game; mountain-raised cows-milk cheese of every consistency; blue cheeses; pancetta, baked pork, and spice-filled rolled pork. Above all, pair this Refosco with rustic fare for a truly ennobling marriage.