A quick google search will tell you that the definition of sprezzatura is a “studied carelessness, especially as a characteristic quality or style of art or literature.” I will add to that definition “of cuisine,” which isn’t a novel suggestion, considering that the impression of effortlessness as it pertains to a meal is a common aspiration. Growing up in the late ’90s, I used to come home from school and watch Nigella Lawson on the Food Network pull an abundance of divine ingredients from her fridge or farmers’ market haul that she happened to have lying around: full-fat creams, perfectly ripe tomatoes, gooey cheeses, and seasonal berries. What piqued my enthusiasm was not only how much pleasure she took in the cooking process, but also the way she threw a dish together. She glided from one item to the next, piling leafy greens, drizzling oils, and cracking pepper until—voilà!—luxurious but unfussy comfort food appeared, whipped together with finesse and ease. That is still how I aspire to eat, and now drink, today. The Italian wines in this sampler were chosen with sprezzatura in mind. They’re versatile, impeccably made, and beyond characterful, but the best part is you just have to pull a cork to enjoy them!