This Montepulciano from southern Australia (yes, Australia, not Italy) is just as unique and expressive a wine as the hand drawn cartoon is on the label. This organically grown, minimal intervention wine is not only a beautiful declaration of southern Australian terroir, but also a charming homage to the Italian native roots of Montepulciano. The wine provides everything you know and love about Montepulciano: beautiful bright blackberry, juicy plum, and fresh red fruit notes all blend together and balance out the moderate tannins for a smooth, easy drinking experience. But what I most enjoy from this bottle is the wonderful finish of pepper. This long, subtle, peppery finish blankets the tongue. In some ways, it’s almost mouthwatering, and makes you eager for another sip! Even from Australia, the bottle is longing to be paired with some beautiful Italian sausage or a hearty red sauce.