Avignonesi, Vin Santo di Montepulciano 100 ml 2001 Tempranillo Lively and charming

Lively and charming

toasty aromas lead into a golden bubbly that is fine

Julia Harding

The strict regulations and favourable soils and climate of the Valpantena sub-region of Valpolicella mean that only the best fruit goes into the Tezza cousins' Brolo delle Giare

Wines made from the Primitivo grape are increasingly popular

Avignonesi, Vin Santo di Montepulciano 100 ml 2001 Tempranillo Lively and charmingYes, it's very expensivebut this is a fine and a rare thing from a a prestigious winery, with a unique character given by a century old indigenous yeast, the madre. Its rich honey colour and generous caramel and herb aromas evolve and expand into suggestions of flowers, warm citrus and fresh baking as the wine opens up. On the palate there's a similar unfolding of wonders with flavours of dried fruit and nuts illuminated by hints of lemon here and