2025 Fratelli Alessandria Verduno Pelaverga Speziale, Piedmont

This wine shows plentiful fresh violets and red fruit. It’s very peppery and juicy on the palate, with a light body, crisp acidity and silky tannins. Very balanced and delicious. Drink now.

92 points James Suckling

The Alessandria family has been making wine in Verduno since the nineteenth century, and while their Barolos attract plenty of attention, their Pelaverga is one of Piedmont's most charming discoveries. Fratelli Alessandria has played an important role in preserving this rare local grape, which produces fragrant, delicately structured reds quite unlike Nebbiolo. Speziale is a wonderful example of why Verduno Pelaverga deserves a place at the table.

Grown around the village of Verduno, Pelaverga Piccolo is celebrated for its bright red fruit, floral perfume and distinctive white pepper character. The 2025 captures the variety's playful personality, with lovely freshness, gentle tannins and a lightness that makes it incredibly versatile with food.

Brilliant ruby red with translucent edges. Wild strawberry, raspberry and red cherry mingle with rose petals, pink peppercorn and a hint of cinnamon. The palate is juicy and lively, with crunchy red berries, delicate tannins and refreshing acidity. A distinctive peppery spice and subtle herbal character linger through the fragrant, mouthwatering finish.

Try it with vitello tonnato, mushroom and fontina crostini, or grilled tuna with tomato and caper salsa. It is equally appealing alongside a plate of prosciutto, fresh figs and soft cheeses.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2030. Its vibrant fruit and aromatic charm are particularly enjoyable in youth.