Charles Lea's favourite (reasonably priced) Italian reds

Wonderfully fragrant, raspberry and polished cherry fruit, in the background just a hint of black pepper with floral roses pushing through. A wonderfully fragrant red fruit and wild flower filled palate, with a rich tann...(read more)

50% Merlot, 20% Cab Sauv & Franc, 10% Syrah, aged in stainless steel and older oak then concrete. Black cherry, blackberry and plum fruit, good fruit density, dark and nicely delivered with chocolate and spice on the...(read more)

Red cherry and damson, balsamic spice, as always very elegant. Bright acid on the entry, crisp woodland fruits, earth, tobacco and spice. Great length, this wine makes you salivate with a lovely push of liquorice on the...(read more)

Deliciously delicate floral and dusty with cherry, balsamico and dusted chocolate notes. In the mouth there are lovely layered ripe red fruits, balsamic savour, leather, chocolate and fragrant green wild herbs and flower...(read more)

Up front there is the pure fresh-edged feel of blueberry flesh, but this dances across the palate with juicy brightness and a good depth of red and black berry fruit. A really attractive Tassinaia with such pure fruit ex...(read more)

Aromatic with notes of cherry, plum and a hint of tar/crayon. Richly structured, layered with a deep fruitiness, plums and cherries, chocolate and herbs. Quite round and easy going but still with enough tannic heft to dr...(read more)

Plums and redcurrant, cherry fruit, quite elegant and refined. Red fruits fill the palate, elegant and poised, then real lift and freshness, delicious balance.