Every year, fifth-generation winemaker Scipione Giuliani scours the vineyards of Italy in search of the ideal grapes to use in his Il Papavero red blend. This versatile red reminds us of an authentic house wine you’d find at a trattoria in Italy. Delicious with or without food, it pairs effortlessly with a range of classic Italian dishes. As wine critic Richard Neill once wrote, “If all table wines tasted this good, no one would leave the table!” The value is second to none, and as you can already guess, it’s ideal for weeknights and parties.

The secret? Scipione selects the ripest, most flavorsome grapes from the top-performing regions to ensure Il Papavero is always supple with red berry fruit. Sangiovese from the Marches or Emilia-Romagna, Montepulciano from the Abruzzo, plus Negroamaro and Nero d’Avola from Puglia and the south—a perfect combination.

When you pour a glass of Il Papavero, you’ll be greeted by its deep ruby color, along with its fresh red cherry, black cherry and spice aromas. Expect similar notes on the palate, as well as a silky finish.

Serve to good friends, preferably with a heaping bowl of spaghetti and meatballs or fresh pizza. It’s also an excellent match for rack of lamb and the Italian specialty beef braciola (stuffed, rolled steak). Your food-pairing options are almost endless…