2020 Belli Mondi Provincia di Pavia, Italy Pinot Grigio

Pavia is Lombardy’s westernmost province, bordering Piedmont, and is the home of Belli Mondi — an estate that crafts numerous wines, with a particular affinity for Pinot Grigio.

First launched in the United States during the late 1970s, Pinot Grigio rose to become one of the most imported wines from Italy by the mid-1990s — which is saying something considering the vast majority of Italian wine is red. These savory, refreshing offerings were polar opposites of the oaky, buttery, sometimes palate-fatiguing Chardonnays that dominated the American marketplace at the time.

In addition to Belli Mondi’s commitment to quality, vineyard location is a key factor in producing the best Pinot Grigios. The grape is grown throughout Italy, but has become the flag bearer in Pavia. Belli Mondi’s 2020 vintage is clean, fresh and aromatic, with enough nuance to satisfy the most discerning wine drinker.