Zonin 1821 Portfolio Tasting 2026
The Zonin 1821 portfolio tasting 2026, was this year held at the Haberdashers’ Hall, City of London. Zonin brought together 180 wines from 31 producers including Italy, France, Spain, South Africa, Chile, Argentina, New Zealand and Lebanon. Zonin1821 are a renowned Italian vine growing and wine producing family that have been producing wine since 1821.
There many fine wines at the event, and of the many I tasted my top five recommended wines are as follows:
Castello di Albola – Tuscany
Vin Santo del Chianti Classico DOCG Varietal: Trebbiano, Toscano, Malvesia del Chianti.
Vin Santo del Chianti Classico DOCG is a rare, premium Tuscan dessert wine with a golden amber color, offering intense aromas of dried apricot, honey, toasted almonds, and candied citrus. Aged for 8 years in traditional caratelli barrels, it is velvety, well-balanced and sweet.
and
Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva Varietal: 100% Sangiovese
Another fine Chianti Classico from Castello di Albola. A refined 100% Sangiovese wine known for its intense ruby colour, elegant structure, vibrant acidity, and complex layers of red fruit, tobacco, liquorice and spice. Produced in Radda in Chianti, this Riserva is crafted from the estate’s best grapes and aged for over 32 months before release, including 14 months in oak barrels.
Masseria Altmuria – Apulia
Sasseo Primitivo di Manduria DOC Varietal: 100% Primitivo
A deep, ruby-red, full-bodied Italian primitivo red from Apulia (Salento) with intense aromas of ripe plums, red fruit jam, and sweet spices. It is warm and smooth on the palate, featuring harmonious tannins, 14-15% ABV, a long velvety, fruity finish with notes of cocoa.
Principi di Butera – Sicily
Deliella Nero d’Avola Sicilia DOC Varietal: 100% Nero d’Avola
Principi di Butera is a premier, single-vineyard, 100% Nero d’Avola from Sicily, known for its deep ruby color, high acidity, and refined structure. It features aromatic notes of red fruits, particularly morello cherry, blended with hints of balsamic, Mediterranean herbs and flint. A full bodied yet elegant, balanced and long on the palate wine.
Du Toitskloof Wines – South Africa
Sauvignon Blanc 2025 Varietal: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Du Toitskloof Sauvignon Blanc 2025 is a vibrant, sustainably produced South African white wine characterised by lively aromas of lime, passion fruit, gooseberry, and fresh herbs. It features a light, crisp palate with tangy citrus, tropical notes, and a clean, mineral edged finish, making it a fresh, easy-drinking option. A benchmark for all S.A. Sauvignon Blanc wines.
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A most enjoyable highlight of the Portfolio Tasting event was the interactive tasting experience: the Sensory Pairing Masterclass. The masterclass was presented by Federica Zanghirella, UK Sommelier Vice President and Denni di Rosa, Zonin 1821 Group Brand Ambassador; Christopher Burr MW also shared his expert opinion. With much anticipation masterclass attendees were invited to pair six superb food dishes with seven equally superb wines.
The preferred food/wine pairings are shown in the gallery below. Please click on the images:
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