Sometimes, the next best thing to being there is pretending to be there. When jumping on a plane and flying to Rome for a weekend of eating and drinking in Umbria is just not in the cards, your next best bet might be to pick up an Italian wine in Vintages. Named after a hilltop Roman hostel called Cappanna di Bastardo, this lusty Italian red will make an excellent dinner partner this weekend.

Tasting Note: Enticing, complex aromas of spice, vanilla, cocoa, and cedar are complemented by rich, dark berry fruit and earth on the nose. Intense dark fruit on the palate is accompanied by spice and chocolate in a medium-bodied, well-structure, dry frame. Mouthwatering dark cherry acidity and well balanced silky tannins linger on a long, delicious finish.

Enjoy With: This classically styled Sangiovese blend would be perfect with a rich tomato ragu and thick-cut pasta. Try with robust stews, winter veggie braises or flavourful cheeses.

Style: Dry, medium-bodied, complex red wine.

Terroir / Region: Umbria's wine zones rest languidly on the slopes of the Apennines in central Italy. The region has an ancient wine-growing culture that has progressed from antiquity into the modern day. The winemaking rules in Umbria allow for the planting of varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, which make up part of Rossobastardo's blend. The region's cool nights and warm sunny days are perfect for ripening Sangiovese over a long, slow growing season.

Producer: Cantina Signae Cesarini Sartori is a relatively new winery that was conceived and built by a native Umbrian winemaker named Luciano Cesarini. After studying historical accounts of the area and investing in extensive soil testing, the estate was planted with indigenous grapes like Sagratino as well as experimental varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon. Luciano's dream is to turn the cantina, and the region surrounding Montefalco into an agri-tourism destination, where guests can eat, drink and bask in Umbrian hospitality.

Availability: Rossobastardo will be released officially on Saturday, February 4th, but check the LCBO website since most stores' shelves are already stocked. Look for it in the Italian section of Vintages.

Remember your reusable shopping bag & please enjoy responsibly.