Antonio Federici Rosso 2018

Led by third-generation Damiano Federici, Cantine Federici is one of the first (and best) producers in Italy’s Roma region. Named after Damiano’s grandfather, this powerful red marries hand-harvested Montepulciano and Cesanese grown in the hills outside of Rome – the same ones that supplied stone for the Colosseum.

Last vintage, Antonio Federici debuted to 98 points from top critic Luca Maroni. And the new 2018 release has bested even that: Luca Maroni rated it 99 points (the highest honor on his trademark 99-point scale) and expert James Suckling awarded it 91 points. Crafted with a portion of dried grapes (which creates seriously concentrated flavors), it delivers a sumptuous texture, with luscious black fruit and warming spice notes.

Most of Cantine Federici’s wines are sold directly to local restaurants (where they’re served with rigatoni all’amatriciana and other hearty pasta dishes) – so it’s rare to see them in the U.S. Act quickly for your share of this Roman sensation.