2023 Fantini Giro Sangiovese Merlot IGP, Puglia

Puglia has become one of Italy’s great sources of flavour packed, easy drinking reds, though producers like Fantini continue to show the region can offer plenty more than simple value wines. Founded in Abruzzo in the 1990s, Fantini built its reputation by working closely with growers across southern Italy, sourcing fruit from warm coastal vineyards where sunshine, sea breezes and old farming traditions shape expressive, generous wines. Giro blends Sangiovese with Merlot, bringing together Italian brightness and softness in a style made for relaxed dinners and lively tables.

The 2023 vintage is juicy, smooth and immediately approachable. Ripe cherry, plum and blackberry fruit spill from the glass alongside hints of dried herbs, sweet spice and a touch of mocha. Sangiovese brings freshness and savoury lift while Merlot rounds everything out with plush texture and dark fruit richness. There is enough structure to keep the wine interesting, though the overall feel is vibrant and easy going rather than heavy or serious. A subtle earthy note on the finish gives it a distinctly southern Italian character.

This is made for food, preferably shared with plenty of people and a table full of plates. Pizza with spicy salami, slow cooked meatballs or grilled eggplant with parmesan would all work beautifully. It would also shine with smoky barbecue dishes or simple pasta loaded with tomatoes, olives and basil. Slightly cool the bottle on a warm evening and it becomes dangerously drinkable, the sort of red that somehow disappears faster than expected.