Tasting notes:

Bodegas Bianchi was founded in 1928 by Italian immigrant Valentín Bianchi to fulfil his ambition of a family wine business. His eponymous winery has forged a well-respected niche thanks to the care and attention of Valentín’s son, Don Enzo. Nowadays, Valentín’s three grandsons and their cousins, the Stradella family, extend the tradition of quality and value. Deep ruby-purple in hue, the wine shows Victoria plum and morello cherry fruit, with roasted coffee bean and dark chocolate overtones. Dry on the palate, with vibrant fruit framed by brisk acidity and sturdy tannins, the finish has spicy notes of allspice, nutmeg and sassafras. Full-bodied and quite warming, this is a good partner for a rich beef stew. (Patricia Stefanowicz MW)