Cradle of Hills Ciao Bella Sangiovese 2022 from McLaren Vale is a beautifully expressive, ultra‑premium Sangiovese that takes Tuscan spirit and gives it a sun‑kissed, maritime Vale twist. It’s 100% Sangiovese, organic, low‑intervention and already the estate’s best‑selling wine for good reason.

On the nose, Ciao Bella Sangiovese 2022 is all spice and earth – think red cherry and redcurrant, dried herbs, forest floor and a gentle lick of savoury oak. The palate is luscious yet medium‑bodied, with tangy red fruits, Sangiovese’s trademark cherry‑bright acidity and a “kiss” of French oak adding polish rather than weight. It’s truly varietal, combining Old World grip with New World generosity and a long, moreish finish, and you can happily cellar it to 2035.

Food‑wise, Ciao Bella is a natural with pizza, tomato‑based pasta, Bolognese, ragù, grilled Italian sausages and anything with basil, tomato and pecorino in the mix. It’s also a cracking match with roast pork, porchetta, eggplant parmigiana and antipasto boards full of olives, salumi and hard Italian cheeses, making it a go‑to McLaren Vale red for Italian‑leaning nights.