On a recent visit to Florence, Italy, we came across the sign with the words Alto Basso. Translated from Italian to “High / Low,” Alto Basso takes its inspiration from both the wine styles and varietals found in the northern regions of Italy and those from the southern regions of France and Italy. The result? An elegantly soft, balanced wine with bright fruit, loads of spice and juicy acidity that makes this easy-drinking red perfect for the cool weather, with comfort food, or on its own.

Zinfandel is the backbone in this cool California table wine, and for good reason. When we set out to make our own version of the Vino da Tavola wines we tasted throughout Italy, we wanted to feature something that was unique to winemaking here in the US. While Zinfandel is certainly produced throughout the world, California Zinfandel is unlike wines anywhere else in the world. The fruit and spices are pronounced, followed by aromas of ripe blackberry, cedar, cigar box, and baking spices. Juicy raspberry and blueberry dominate at first, followed by layers of spice and sweet oak that are revealed as the wine opens up. A luxurious finish with coriander, vanilla, and caramel leaves you wanting more.