This Syrah-dominant ‘Super Tuscan,’ with Sangiovese and Merlot playing supporting roles, comes from vineyards on the seashell-laden soils of the Badia (abbey) founded run by Cluniac Benedictine Monks around the turn of the first millennium AD. Purchased by the Gaslini Albertini Counts in 1939, it has become a destination spot as well as a producer of great wine and olive oil. The grapes are harvested manually and the estate is almost entirely powered by solar energy. Following fermentation in stainless steel, the wine rests for 12 months in oak barrels followed by a brief period in concrete vats after the final blend is crafted. Medium-to-full-bodied, it boasts plush, velvety tannins with notes of black pepper, cocoa, cassis, brambly berries and a hint of cinnamon. Paired with a rack of lamb or a hearty cauliflower lentil stew.

— Producer

Gnarly Vines