SIX REASONS TO DRINK RED WINE IN AUTUMN

Red wine is rich in powerful antioxidants. It is full of substances that have numerous beneficial properties for the body. Many health experts advise up to one glass a day to combat the ills of the season.

It is rich in polyphenols. They give the wine body and structure. It is because of the presence of these components that when we drink a glass of red wine, the palate is enveloped by a feeling of warmth and fullness, which is much more pleasant for winter.

It combines perfectly with seasonal recipes. In the winter months, we are more inclined to eat robust, savoury dishes. Red wine goes better with this type of recipe because it has the ideal aromatic characteristics to match the more complex flavours.

It is suitable for ageing. Red wine keeps well in your cellar, even for long periods of time. A bottle of white wine is better drunk when just bought, but a red can stay in your cellar for several days, until the arrival of a special occasion.

It is able to release our body's endorphins. These are produced in the brain and generate a feeling of relaxation and happiness. They can be a boon on cold, grey winter days.

It relieves the physical weariness typical of the winter months. We often happen to feel tired on colder days: the polyphenols present in red wine support our cardiovascular system and contain anti-free-radical substances.

We recommend six red wines: at least as many as there are reasons to drink them...

Merlot Puglia IGT  The colour is an intense bright red, the bouquet is clear and persistent with strong hints of ripe fruit, such as raspberry and cherry.

Amarone della Valpolicella Intense red colour, with a clean bouquet with notes of ripe fruit, blackberry and violet. On the palate, it is soft, balanced, with a persistent finish: a wine for the whole meal, like those of bygone days.

Primitivo Puglia IGT This has a dense, intense red colour with dark tints. The bouquet is ethereal, of ripe fruit, with distinct hints of dried figs.

Barbaresco DOCG Delicate red colour with orange tints due to ageing; intense and persistent bouquet, with notes of morello cherry, spices and vanilla. On the palate it is clean and straightforward, balanced with a long aftertaste.

Barolo DOCGThe garnet red that in its youth characterizes Barolo, in the Riserva acquires orange reflections: evidence of a long rest in wood, and full of fascination. The bouquet profile enchants with its complexity and harmony: ethereal, intense, with notes of morello cherry, echoes of lavender and hints of spice.

Chianti DOCG Riserva Selvato It has a red colour with garnet reflections; an intense, fine and fragrant bouquet, with floral notes of violet, berries and vanilla. Harmonious, full and structured on the palate.