This new red from northernmost Italy may not come with a DOCG as well known or prestigious as the Barolo above, but it is every bit as serious and impressive a wine. In the sliver of upper Piemonte that’s just a stone’s throw from the Swiss border, Nebbiolo is known as Prünent, and the Garrone family farms it in the region’s distinctive toppia system, wherein vines are trained on massive stone and wooden pergolas to ensure slow ripening and as much protection from the elements as possible. La Fornace faces southeast, so the Garrones’ first vintage from the historic site shows plenty of age-worthy structure, density, and ripe notes of cherry, plum, and leather. A total knock-out and only a few cases left!

Marco Tintero’s Langhe Nebbiolo takes Piemonte’s most exalted red grape and delivers an unusually fun and approachable expression that is suited to every table imaginable. A grilled pork chop is the first thing that comes to mind, but this rosso would pair equally well with pizza, an assortment of light crostini, a springtime risotto, or your favorite ragù recipe. As with every one of Marco’s wines, it overdelivers and makes a strong case to be that one Italian red you always have on hand.

Everything about Giulia Negri represents a breath of fresh air in Barolo, from her youthful energy to her high-elevation terroir surrounded by forests and thriving biodiversity. These forests, and their truffling history, give this bottling its name, and also underscore the uncommon liveliness of Giulia’s wines. La Tartufaia, which Giulia says is her “most La Morra” Barolo, is silky, vibrant, and fruit-driven. Try it for a fresh take on Barolo.