Bolo Nero Edizione Limitata Castel del Monte Rosso 2016

Ranked alongside $200-plus icons …

The wines of the tiny southern Italian region of Castel del Monte (which translates as ’castle on the hill,’ so-named for the magnificent castle that anchors the appellation) are hot right now – but none are hotter than Bolo Nero.

Crafted at Francesco Liantonio’s Torrevento winery – “a flagship for the Castel del Monte designation” – this classic blend of deep, dark Nero di Troia and spicy Aglianico was previously awarded the prestigious Tre Bicchieri rating in Gambero Rosso. (Who else received this highest of honors from Italy’s top wine guide? $150-a-bottle Sassicaia Super Tuscan, $200 Biondi Santi Brunello, $250 Bartolo Mascarello Barolo … just to name a few.)

The acclaim doesn’t stop there, either. Last vintage, Italy’s renowned Luca Maroni rated it 90 points, while Decanter World Wine Awards judges awarded it a top medal and raved about how delicious it was: “Blueberry and red cherry on the nose. Ripe basil, strawberry, and savoury porcini, with floral lift and fine tannins.” Just wait until you taste the elegant, equally delicious 2016 release.

Crafted in the sunny hills of Murgia (just north of Bari), Bolo Nero is a top choice for your next dinner party, and sure to be a hit with rich-sauced pastas. Or, try it with slow-cooked meat dishes, from succulent beef short ribs to braised pork with buttery polenta.

A treat for Italian red fans, if you’re quick – stock is limited.