Chieti in Abruzzo is one of the largest wine-producing provinces in Italy. Codice Citra was established in the 1970s with quality, not quantity in mind. Grapes are estate-grown and bottled from a collection of just 9 family-owned vineyards. Vines thrive in this area thanks to the unique climate. Warm winds blow in from the Adriatic sea, meeting the cooler air flowing down from the Majela mountains. The locals refer to the resulting valley breeze as ‘brezza di terra’ – and it’s this that encourages perfect grape ripening. This blend of local grape varieties is bold and juicy. There’s a delicate note of violet alongside ripe cherry, and soft tannins on the finish. It’s fantastic with roast lamb.