Pizzini Gusto Mama Sangiovese 2019

Perfectly ripe red cherry and strawberry, dried herbs and oh-so-soft spices, black pepper and cocoa, accompanied by terracotta tannins. Brightly juicy fruit that’s clearly enjoyed some Aussie sunshine is swaddled in all that typical sangiovese savouriness, making for a fiendishly food-friendly affair. There’s acidity to keep things fresh, but it’s well integrated, softly spoken and doesn’t poke you in the ribs.

Who is Gusto Mama?

Wine’s usually an unceremonious affair, opened as much to quench thirst as it is to flesh out the ragout. But Gusto Mama is for those good occasions, when family’s around. It’s on the top shelf in the kitchen, away from underage fingers. Usually this would be the worst place for wine due to heat, but the turnover’s high. It’s still drunk from tumblers, but it’s accompanied by a mumbled, satisfied ‘mmm’ from Nonna and a ‘hfff’ from Nonno as he sinks into his chair. That’s a lot more than you’d get from anything else. You can tell it makes them feel more at home; and you didn’t think that was possible. 

Made by Joel Pizzini & Family

Joel Pizzini’s taken his dad Alfredo’s legacy of making renowned King Valley wines and doubled down on the region’s standout specialty: sangiovese. He’s trained at top wineries around the globe, including Isole e Olena in Chianti - one of the world’s best sangiovese makers. Joel regularly walks the vineyards with his dad, forever honing his knowledge of the land’s foibles and features. 

Of course it’s a family affair, with siblings Natalie, Nicole and Carlo all playing key roles in the business. Alfredo remains Pizzini patriarch, but perhaps the most important person of all - of course - is Katrina, who isn’t only Pizzini ambassador but, fittingly, also runs her own cooking school. A mama with much gusto indeed! 

What is the Collaboration Series?

Vinomofo’s Collaboration Series wines are all about celebrating hand-picked makers. In working with the most talented winemakers, we’re always humbled to see a wine come to life, from the seedling of an idea to screwcap and everything in between. These bespoke projects let us get our dream wines to you at the right price, using the strength of our relationships and the buying power of you, our tribe of good wine-loving mofos.