This week’s suggestions: Fancy northern Italians

Valpolicella Superiore Classico 2009, Vigneto Rafael, Tommasi Italy red, $20.15, SAQ # 711994. Gorgeous and sultry. Not your standard Valpolicella, or even a Ripasso. As opposed to notes of dried fruits and raisins, there is brilliantly fresh fruit. Subtle tannins and a rich, sensual texture. Easy and tasty. Serve at 16C. Drink now-2014. Food pairing idea: Veal and other white meat roasts.

Colline Pescaresi Igt 2006, Kudos, Talamonti, Italy red, $22.15, SAQ # 11451843. This I liked from the first sniff. Yes, it has the markings of maybe too much oak, but here it seems to fit perfectly. Tannins bring focus and restraint. The Montepulciano and merlot blend works nicely – the merlot bringing that satiny texture, and the Montepulciano some much-needed rusticity and grit. Serve at 16C. Drink now-2015. Food pairing idea: Pepper steak. Barolo 2007, Fontanafredda, Italy red, $32, SAQ # 20214. Very classic, with grippy tannin and a refreshing acidity. Delicate, mineral with an earthy, more animal expression on the finish. Beautiful wine that is drinking nicely right now but will hold for a few more years. Serve at 18C. Drink now2015. Food pairing idea: Osso bucco, anything with truffles. Veneto Igt 2007, 60 20 20, Zymé, Italy red, $51.25, SAQ # 11581058. Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend that while being far from a typical Venetian wine, doesn’t stray into the no man’s land that so many Bordeaux-styled blends often do. Has the redder fruit, higher acidity and sharp tannins of a cool climate wine, as well as a hint of green pepper and herbs. Traditionalstyled wine that I love. Serve at 18C. Drink now-2017. Food pairing idea: Lamb and duck.