Italy. Just because they didn't make it into the World Cup 2026 doesn't mean we should throw them shade. Instead, we're highlighting what they are great at. Making wines!

 2022, Arnaldo Rivera, Langhe Nascetta Del Comune Di Novello, Piedmont, Italy 

Nascetta is a rare, semi-aromatic white grape and the only native white variety of the Langhe, traditionally grown in the hills of Novello, one of the historic Barolo communes. Vinified in stainless steel and aged on the lees for eight months, it offers an expressive bouquet of white flowers, citrus, and delicate honeyed notes. Fresh and vibrant on the palate, it reveals flavors of green apple, pear, and a refined mineral touch, supported by bright acidity and a balanced structure. 
 

 2024, Tunella, Pinot Grigio Colli Orientali, Friuli, Italy  

The Tunella Pinot Grigio opens with bright mineral tones and a hint of dried spice. There’s a generous fruity and fragrant nose that evokes aromas of warm bread crust and intense perfume of acacia blossom and ripe tropical fruit. The palate echoes the nose and is elegant, full-bodied with moderately acidity and delicate hints of yeast. 
 

 2023, Tunella, Pinot Nero Colli Orientali, Friuli, Italy  

Bright and aromatic, this wine exhibits dark cherries and raspberries alongside hints of blue flowers and dried herbs. On the palate, it is silky and well-textured, revealing layers of ripe berry fruit and a gentle touch of spice. This Pinot Nero offers impressive versatility at the table and the wine’s bright acidity and subtle herbal notes complement savory foods, while its smooth texture and fruit-forward character bring balance to the bold flavors. It is vivid and focused, with a medium body and a polished yet taut tannin structure. The finish is dusty and fresh.

 2022, Mura Mura, “Iago” Barbarescvo, Piedmont, Italy  

Barbaresco Iago is Mura Mura's most complex Barbaresco, made from grapes from the Currà, Starderi, and Serragrilli estate crus, in a blend that aims to offer both harmony and approachability. All the vineyards are located in the municipality of Neive, recognized as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, at an altitude of approximately 270 meters above sea level. Brilliant ruby colour with garnet-red nuances. Accessible and elegant on the nose, with notes of cherry compote, dried rose petals and then leather on the finish. Silky structure on the palate, clear fruit on firm tannins, fresh acidity and juicy to the finish. 
  
  
 

 2020, Arnaldo Rivera, “Undicicomuni” Barolo, Piedmont, Italy 

Barolo Undicicomuni is arguably Arnaldo Rivera’s most important wine. Spiced cedar, leather and scorched earth on the nose. The palate is wild and savory with notes of crushed raspberry, figs, cinnamon, star anise alongside velvety dusty tannins and fresh acidity. Blending fruit from across the Langhe’s eleven Barolo villages, it epitomizes the quintessential values of traditional, historic Barolo. A shorter ageing in wood, instead of the 32 months of each of the cru Baroli he produces allows the wine to be more accessible and suitable for early drinking. A consistently great example of Barolo.