2024 Pizzini Brachetto, King Valley

The Pizzini Brachetto from King Valley is a joyful, lightly sparkling red that captures the essence of the Pizzini family’s Italian heritage. Brachetto is a variety traditionally from Piedmont, known for producing sweet, aromatic and gently frizzante wines. In the cool slopes of the King Valley, it thrives with a vibrant freshness that makes it both fun and elegant. The Pizzinis, pioneers of Italian grapes in Australia since the 1970s, treat this wine with the same care and respect as their more serious reds, resulting in a playful but well-made expression.

In the glass it is a bright ruby red with a fine, lively mousse. The nose bursts with aromas of wild strawberry, raspberry and rose petals, laced with hints of Turkish delight and spice. On the palate it is delicately sweet but refreshing, with red berry flavours balanced by a gentle fizz and crisp acidity. The finish is light, aromatic and mouth-watering, leaving a lingering impression of fruit and florals.

Food pairings lean toward the indulgent. It is sensational with dark chocolate desserts, berry tarts or pavlova with fresh fruit. It also works as a refreshing aperitif on a summer afternoon, or even alongside a cheese board featuring creamy brie and fresh strawberries. Best enjoyed young, it is not intended for long cellaring but shines for its immediacy and charm.