We all know about Pinot Grigio and Sangiovese, but Italy grows SO many more varietals. Let’s sample three lesser-known wines!

Tziu Martine Vermentino di Sardegna 2023, Sardinia — Pure Vermentino with a strong fresh and saline imprint. The citrus and fruity notes accompany the delicate and well-defined sip from the short maceration on the skins. Only 900 bottles were available! This was a very hot vintage in Dorgali. Luckily, the area is 500m above sea level, separated by mountains from Sardinia's most beautiful beaches. Fog is common in the Oddoene valley where Antonio Berritta and his family farm 10 hectares of vines. In spite of heat (and maybe related to abundant May rainfall), this wine is pristine: ripe melon, almond, a pinch of salt. Certified organic Vermentino. 13% ABV. $27.50/9

Poggio di Bortolone Frappato Vittoria DOC 2023, Sicily — Poggio di Bortolone makes a handful of perfect red wines for autumn. On the banks of the Para Para river, seventh-generation farmer Pierluigi Cosenza grows wonderfully fragrant Frappato grapes and makes a light, high-toned wine that belongs in the context of October's produce. The nose has the crisp sweetness of mulberries, blackberries, black plums and violets, and the mineral edge of graphite. On the palate, citrus pith and spices balance more dark berries, while acid lifts textured, rolling tannins. Only 1,200 bottles were available. 13.5% ABV. $22.99/7.50.

Montefalco Sagrantino DOCG 2019, Umbria — Made with 100% Sagrantino, one of the most tannic varietals in the world. Deep ruby red color, with violet reflections. Aromas of black plum, fig, tobacco, leather and licorice rest on a background of forest floor, with a kiss of old oak and a hint of burnt rubber that blows off with aeration. Dry, robust and persistent with refined intense tannins on the finish. Only 120 bottles were available! Antonelli San Marco is a certified organic farm has been owned by Filippo Antonelli's family since the 19th century. 15.5% ABV. $38.99/13 (reg., $42/14).

See you Friday!