Anyday Italian Case

Made along the heel of Italy in sea-cooled but sunny Puglia, this old-vine negromaro is generous and soft, with blackcurrant and plum flavours. There's a little mocha and a sweeter finish point , with well-judged ageing in large old oak barrels really enhancing the overall quality.

With bright red-berry and tart cherry flavours, this expressive Italian sangiovese has lift and zest with some spice developing on the finish. It's made by Alberto Antonini at Poggiotondo from selected grapes from surrounding growers, and makes a splendid partner for salami, pizza and tomato-based pasta dishes.

From grapes grown in the highest portion of vineyards in the delle Venezie appellation, this pinot grigio benefits from sunny days but cool nights, brightening both the aromatics and the acidity. Dry and refreshing with flavours of ripe green apples and conference pears and a chalky minerality, this is a well-balanced, easy-drinking any day white.

Vermentino is a grape variety that loves the heat yet retains its natural acidity, making refreshing styles of wine even in the sun-drenched vineyards of Sicily. This peach and lemon-scented example comes from a brilliantly run co-operative near Menfi.

A lovely introduction to cortese, the grape behind Gavi, grown across Piedmont in north-west Italy. Made in a crisp, dry style without any oak, this is light and invigorating, with pear, apple and lemon flavours. A perfect 'fridge-door' white.

We all need an easy-going, fuss-free red – cue this juicy, bright barbera from north-west Italy. Light to medium-bodied, this has cherry and blackberry flavours, and a crisp, refreshing finish.