I had the pleasure of sitting down with Mary Horn, Vice President of Fine Wine Sales for Heidelberg distributing last week. Horn brought an impressive portfolio of wines that reflect the diversity of wine production throughout Italy.  

Horn proved to be a knowledgable, passionate and witty presenter who knew her wines and really enjoyed sharing stories about and knowledge of those who produce them.

Here's a look at five of the wines we tasted:

1. 2012 Banfi Principessa Gavia (Piemonte)

100% Cortese grape, well balanced with subtle acidity, fresh pineapple and apple

2. NV Mionetto Porescco Valdobbiadene Superiore DOCG (Cartizze)

Aromas of exotic fruits and green apple with a suprisingly refined and creamy finish

3. 2011 Cantina Pedres (Sardinia)

100% Cannonau grape, a full bodied and distinctive wine with dark fruits and spice

4. 2009 Castello Banfi Brunello di Montalcino

100% Sangiovese, intesne yet soft and velevety with anise, black spices and vanilla

5. 2011 Gaja Promis

55% Merlor, 35% Syrah and 10% Sangiovese. Well balanced and a pleasure to drink.

We enjoyed the wines with a wondefrul antipasto spread, some fresh bread and two kinds of olive oil. These five wines were my favorites, but all nine showed really well and had a lot to offer in terms of value and quality.

All wines are distributed locally by Heidleberg Imports, If your local retailer or restaurant doesn't carry them, they can get them for you easily.