Alessia Antinori to Headline South Walton Beaches Wine and Food Festival, April 23 – 26, 2020

March 23, 2020 by evebushman

MIRAMAR BEACH, FLA. (PRWEB) – Alessia Antinori of Marchesi Antinori, the most famously iconic winemaking family in history, will pour her family’s highly prized Italian wines at the South Walton Beaches Wine and Food Festival, taking place April 23 – April 26, 2020, in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin (not to be confused with the Sandestin resort or Sandestin wine festival). With more than 600 quality wines and dozens of spirits to taste over four days, this annual award-winning charity event delivers an unparalleled wine experience.

Antinori’s wines will be featured in Culinary Village and will be paired with an exclusive menu of authentic Italian dishes by Festival Culinary Director, Scott Plumley.

“At the beginning in the renaissance period we were more merchants and then after a few generations we started to produce wine in the Chianti Classico. The last generation has been very important because we focused on buying land to plant vineyards to assure that we could guarantee the high quality of the product. The last period we started to focus on the quality of the product and on the vineyards which we owned to try to get the best from them,” said Antinori, whose family has been making wine for 26 generations.

Attendees will be able to engage with Antinori and learn how her family’s wineries have evolved over six centuries since being established in 1385.

“We are talking about a business which is human and nature related and for this reason we believe the way to succeed is to transmit values like passion, quality and integrity from generation to generation and for this reason we want to maintain it in the family,” said Antinori.

Antinori will also present one of the weekends popular tasting seminars where her family wines will be paired exclusively with award-winning cheeses and charcuterie presented by world-renowned cheese expert and educator Michael Landis of the Intitut du Fromage.

Alessia Antinori said the tasting attendees can expect “that they will understand our family, our passion, our lifestyle and that they can appreciate our wines through our values and tasting a good glass of wine!”

Another festival highlight will be the Jackson Family Wine World pavilion which will feature their Chardonnays, Pinot Noir, Syrah and Viogniers from California and “big reds” including Cabernet Sauvignons, French Bordeaux, Italian Super Tuscans, Australian Shiraz and more.

South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival will present some of the most acclaimed winemakers and master distillers in the world, including Mariano Buglioni, the owner of the eponymous estate in San Pietro in Cariano, located in Valpolicella Classico; Greg Brewer winemaker and owner of Brewer-Clifton; Daniel DAOU, winemaker and proprietor, DAOU Family Estates; Jill DelaRiva Russell, winemaker of Cambria Winery; Jesse Lange, owner and principle, Lange Winery; Jared Himstedt, head distiller of Balcones Distilling; and Jessica Koga, Associate Winemaker, Davies Vineyards and Schramsberg Vineyards.

The festival kicks off Thursday at 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. with Winemakers & Shakers, held at Wine World in Destin. The VIP Wine Tasting is part of a 3-Day Package and takes place Friday, 4 p.m. – 6 p.m., followed by the Friday Craft Beer & Spirits Jam, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. The Grand Tastings are Saturday and Sunday, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. The VIP Tasting can only be attended by purchasing the VIP Wine Festival 3-Day Package that includes most festival events as well.

Tickets can be purchased at SoWalWine.com.

The South Walton Beaches Wine and Food Festival is truly a celebration of wine, food and music that everyone can feel good about. This event is a major fundraiser for the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation with proceeds benefiting more than a dozen children’s charities in Northwest Florida.

Presented by Grand Boulevard at Sandestin and Visit South Walton, the festival offers the ideal backdrop for wine, charity and fun along the South Walton beaches, named among the best beaches in the country.

South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival is made possible by the generous support of the following Founding Partners: Visit South Walton Tourist Development Council, Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association, Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, Wine World of Northwest Florida and Grand Boulevard at Sandestin®. Resortquest by Wyndham Vacation Rentals is the Official Lodging Partner.

About South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival
South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival is an annual charity event held the last weekend in April. The festival features a stunning showcase of some of the best wines in the world. Celebrity wine producers and chefs present fine wine and food pairings from the world’s most famous appellations. The Culinary Village offers a sumptuous array of foods to taste, wines to pair, as well as wine and food tasting seminars. The event is a major fundraiser for Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation, which benefits children in need in Northwest Florida. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit SoWalWine.com.

SUPER TUSCANS DEMYSTIFIED and WHYNOT WINE SAVER SHOWCASE

March 20, 2020 by evebushman

Last month I got another look at the whynot wine saver (2019 article) and benefitted from the expert knowledge from the North American Sommelier Association president Diego Meraviglia, on what the heck a Super Tuscan is and how it came to be. The invitation is below, then my notes of what I learned and photos are here.

For decades and decades, a mystical and highly revered wine category has commanded sales, ratings, prices and stirred up awe and buzz across the wine-world and most of all in the United States Tuscan in origin, but international in spirit, “SUPER TUSCANS“ have represented some of the best bottlings to leave Italian soil, world-bound.

But what exactly are they? Not even an official category…SUPER TUSCANS blasted onto the wine world through contradiction, controversy and a pioneering soul in the 1960’s and were some of the very first Italian wines to make a name for themselves and Italy across the planet.

Very often misunderstood, misrepresented and erroneously explained and perceived, our mission is to shed light and clarity on a mystical and legendary Italian wine category that has little of official to begin with.

What Exactly is a Super Tuscan?

There are no rules about what a Super Tuscan has to be. According to Meraviglia the term was made up by the American press, namely a young Robert Parker that was sent a bottle to review. It gave a term to a popular wine without an appellation to define them.

Located in Central Italy, where they had learned that almost any grape varietal could thrive (just not Nebbiolo or Nordic grapes) due to the length of the growing season. Like California, they could focus on Bordeaux and Rhone varietals, and others like Zinfandel. The area benefits from super rich soil with limestone, and a mild climate that produces balanced wines.

There is some history Meraviglia shared as well. The area began with rich landlords during the feudal system where they built a castle, houses, a wall around it all and shared half of what they grew with the people that lived there. The landlords soon decided there was a wine surplus and decided to sell some of it.

Sassicaia first appeared in 1968 and with that, Super Tuscans were born. It’s a Cabernet Sauvignon – a phenomenon in Italy at the time when these wines could only be labeled as a Red Table Wine. This wine got a lot of attention in the U.K. and the U.S., received high point scores and was very popular, with that the Super Tuscan term stuck. In 1971 Tignanello proved to be the second Super Tuscan.

So when you buy a Super Tuscan you are buying a brand label, not an appellation. All are different grapes varieties – and some may or may not include indigenous grapes. The wines are more like Bordeaux or California wines, basically made in a more international style.

We also learned a little about the different areas and soils which can be seen in the photos I took here. Find Super Tuscans being made in Chianti, Chianti Classico, Montalcino, Bolgheri and Maremma.

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 16k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

Perlis Picks: Make Your Own Paso [Part 3 at J Dusi]

November 7, 2015 by evebushman

Coming Home to J Dusi Wines

We hadn’t visited J Dusi in some time, but in our quest to share with our family members what makes Paso Robles special to us, it seemed almost a requirement. After all, the name Dusi is practically synonymous with Paso Robles.

Janell Dusi [the J in J Dusi] has been making wine commercially since the 2006 vintage. But the Dusi vineyard is much older than that, planted in 1945 by her grandfather Dante, who, sadly, passed away late in 2014. Since the vineyard was planted, Dusi Zinfandel has been prized for its distinct full flavors and the grapes have long been sold to discerning wineries such as Turley, Cypher and Tobin James. But no wine was made commercially by the Dusi family until Janell decided it was time to do so. And even though family members had long said that they were growers and not winemakers, when Janell was ready to make that leap her family supported her wholeheartedly.

My wife Karen and I first tasted Janell’s wine [that inaugural 2006 vintage] at a Paso Robles wine country “road show” of sorts held at a hotel in Santa Monica. Pretty sure it was the star of the show that day. It wasn’t long thereafter that we paid a visit to Janell at her parents’ home on the Dante Dusi Vineyard, dragging along some friends to whom we had raved about our new winery discovery. Multiple visits with multiple friends followed, and always the Dusi family has been incredibly welcoming, enthusiastic and gracious.

And I’ve visited a lot of vineyards in my day. Some of them just feel special. Nowhere have I felt this more than at the Dante Dusi Vineyard. There is just such a “sense of place” about it to me.

Janell’s success and an opportunity to acquire a winery on Highway 46 West a couple of years ago has enabled her to expand on her vision. But, even though we were not visiting the family home this time, it still felt like coming home. Janell’s mom Joni welcomed us with open arms before we even got into the tasting room. We knew that Janell was still at the family vineyard and would be joining us shortly, but we couldn’t wait for her; we wanted to start tasting the latest offerings in the tasting room. We tasted…

2014 Pinot Grigio – clean and light; a perfect way to refresh our palates.

2013 Zinfandel from the Dante Dusi vineyard – another zin hit out of the park by Janell; consistently one of my favorite wines.

2012 GSM [Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre] – delicious blend; really noticed the Grenache.

During our visit, Janell finally made it to the tasting room and we continued our tasting with her…

2013 The Don [blend of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon] – one of the advantages of Janell’s new winery is she gets the freedom to try new things such as this Super Tuscan blend. Admittedly I am not usually a fan of California Sangio but this was an exception to the rule.

2013 Caterina’s Syrah – always a solid bottle from J Dusi.

Not on the tasting list but one I just needed to try [and buy] was the 2013 Petite Sirah. Just one barrel was made of this wine, and the label marked the exact location in the vineyard the grapes came from. A massive wine, but deliciously so. I’d lay this one down for a while.

Finally, a visit to J Dusi would not be complete without tasting Janell’s famous grappa. I’m a fan of grappa, some more than others. Janell’s really allows the zinfandel flavors to shine through.

As we said our goodbyes to Janell and Joni, it really felt like it had been a homecoming. Even though I miss the vineyard [which I hope to visit again one day soon], home is more about the people than the place anyway, right?

J Dusi Wines

1401 Hwy. 46 West
Paso Robles, CA 93446

Michael Perlis has been pursuing his passion for wine for more than 25 years. He has had the good fortune of having numerous mentors to show him the way, as well as a wonderful wife who encourages him and shares his interest. After a couple of decades of learning about wine, attending events, visiting wineries and vineyards, and tasting as much wine as he possibly could, he had the amazing luck to meet Eve Bushman. Now, as Contributing Editor for Eve’s Wine 101, he does his best to bring as much information as possible about wine to Eve’s Wine 101 faithful readers. Michael is also Vice President of Eve Bushman Consulting (fka Eve’s Wine 101 Consulting) http://evebushmanconsulting.com/ and President of MCP Financial. Michael can be contacted at michaelthezinfan@aol.com or michael@evebushmanconsulting.com

Chef Eve 101 Makes: Maria’s Italian Deli Ravioli and Meatballs

May 21, 2014 by evebushman

No, I didn’t just go to Maria’s and order dinner and write a post about it. There was one, maybe two, more steps. The first step was that was when I was there ordering dinner I spied some really cool items in their freezer: Ziploc bags of meatballs, cheese ravioli and spinach ravioli. About a dozen in each bag. I figured, heck, this would be good to have on hand when we decide that another dinner I made had sucked and/or it was too cold/wet/hot/humid to go out to dinner.

Recipe (Step Two)

Ingredients

6 thawed Maria’s meatballs (about 4 hours or less)

18 frozen cheese ravioli

Water for boiling (splash of olive oil and salt, just like my Italian mama taught me)

Fresh garlic bread from Ralphs (or your market of choice)

One jar of Ragu (or your preferred jarred spaghetti sauce)

Green salad

’09 Pure Cru Sangio Vetta (Pairing note: Pair your food with the wine it’s meant to go with. i.e. Italian food with an Italian wine!)

Directions

Open the wine and have a splash.

Preheat oven at 350 degrees.

Bring Ragu to a boil, add meatballs, lower to a simmer for 30 minutes.

Boil water.

Just before you put ravioli in to boil begin to bake bread. (approximately for 15 minutes)

For the last ten minutes that the bread is baking, softly boil the ravioli. (I’ve learned that homemade ravioli can be tender. These were, but none burst. Nice fluffy pillows – see photo.)

Serves 3 (Though the meatballs weren’t huge, one was enough. And though we planned 6 ravioli each we had about 4 leftover. So I would say, if you are having the garlic bread and salad, this could serve 4.)

My tasting notes on the Sangio Vetta

All Napa grapes, 25% Cabernet Franc, 75% Sangiovese. Has received several gold star medals, as many of his wines do: Orange County, San Francisco, etc. The wine is made like a Brunello with a third year in barrel, and blended like a Super Tuscan. A $28 bottle of wine – a price winemaker Mitch Cosentino can do even with all that time using up space and barrels in the aging!

Chocolate covered black cherry cordials, one-day old spaghetti sauce (the way it should be served), milky chocolate; balanced, dry, great black cherry and smoke finish. This was my favorite during a full tasting. (More tasting notes on Pure Cru Wines: http://evewine101.com/2013/12/06/the-pure-cru-wine-experience-with-pure-cosentino/

TUSCANY-WINE-AND-BIKE ANNOUNCES 2014 SEASONAL WINE & CULINARY TOUR INTERARIES

May 5, 2014 by evebushman

A Triple Itinerary of Understanding the Wine, Land & History of Tuscany While Experiencing the Unparalleled Beauty of an Outdoor Excursion

TUSCANY WINE and BIKE (TWB) announced their new 2014 Wine Tasting & Culinary Biking Tour Itineraries effective April 26, 2014 through September 27, 2014. Led by local freelance oenologist and Winemaker Carlo Travagli and cycling enthusiast Luca Casini, TWB tours trek on mountain bikes across the provinces of Siena, Firenze, Pisa and Pistoia through the scenic, historic Chianti Wine Region of Tuscany.

“Each itinerary is actually a ‘triple itinerary’ that provides our guests with an understanding of the wine & cuisine, area & geography, and the culture & history of the places we will explore,” says Travagli. “I created these tours to give people an intimate look at my home — this extraordinarily beautiful, dynamic agricultural and world renown wine growing region.”

On the TWB TOUR, participants will awaken their senses through the vibrant colors, intoxicating scents, and breathtaking sights as Tuscany’s most robust seasons dramatically unfold before them. Cycling through fragrant olive groves, rolling vineyards, vibrant sunflowers fields, majestic woods, and other fascinating scenic spots, participants will uncover the most authentic aspects of Tuscany, often missed and overlooked by visitors using conventional means of transportation, additionally they will:

Discover the Pearls of Tuscany, the historical points of interests, churches and buildings rich with art, centuries-old villages and towns as they follow paths and ancient roads like the “via Francigena.”

Experience Tuscan life, people, culture and places traveling through towns and farmlands, with opportunities to stay overnight.

Learn about one of the world’s most famous winemaking regions, the microclimates, viticultural areas and revered varietals, and the role of its landscape and history.

Savor the distinct flavors of the countryside including the local harvests, cherished honey, succulent olives & oils, sumptuous salumi, handcrafted cheeses, and enjoy the regional artisan products and cuisine of TWB select regional partners.

Taste regional wines among the vineyards and cellars while visiting local estates, receiving both lessons and guided tastings by Travagli, an award-winning winemaker of Chianti, Chianti Classico (Gallo Nero Black Rooster), Sangiovese, and IGT Super Tuscan wines.

No rigorous physical conditioning is required for the majority of the TWB itineraries. “Most of our itineraries are designed for tourists without extensive athletic training.” Travagli stresses. “It’s for pure enjoyment and we try very hard to match each itinerary with the interests, comfort level, and ability of our guests.”

However, for both intermediate and advanced cyclists, Travalgi and Casini have designed several challenging itineraries including the 7-day Bio Week Tour. The Bio Week Tours have additional activities such as cooking lessons, donkey treks, and urban bike tours. Customized Tours are also available. For more information, visit the Tuscany Wine and Bike website, Email TWB or call (+39)333 9206700.

10 Choices of TWB Tour Itineraries include:

Day Tours: Il Chianti* – Il Chianti Under the Stars* – Forts & Castles*

Weekend Tours: Il Chianti Classico* – Il Chianti Classico Under the Stars* – Wild Chianti***

Multi-Day Tours: Hidden Chianti* – Pearls of Tuscany** — Heart of Chianti*** – Bio Week Tour**

Difficulty level guidelines:

*Easy Going is a tour where no athletic training is necessary. Suitable for tourists of all levels and children (10yrs+). No dangerous downhill or steep slopes.

**Intermediate/Medium is for the weekly rider who cycles 2-3 times a month covering distances of 20-25km with a slope not higher than 500 meters. A minimum of training is necessary. This tour has been created for Mountain Bike enthusiasts and lovers of outdoor excursions.

***Hard Going is a tour where some light training is necessary. It is for the active rider who cycles once or twice a week, covering distances of about 35-45 km with slopes of about 1,000 meters. This tour is tailored for trained people, mountain bike enthusiasts and lovers of outdoor excursions.

About Tuscany Wine Bike (TWB):

TWB is a complete wine tasting and culinary biking tour experience created by local freelance oenologist and Winemaker Carlo Travagli. Led by Travagli and cycling enthusiast Luca Casini, the tour treks on mountain bikes across the provinces of Siena, Firenze, Pisa and Pistoia through the historic and scenic Chianti Wine Region of Tuscany, located on the Central West Coast of Italy. TWB has developed a biking tour designed to capture and uncover the most authentic aspects of Tuscany, often missed and overlooked by visitors using conventional means of transportation. TWB provides participants with everything they need to explore Italy’s most renown wine growing region including all equipment, expert guides, oenologist guided wine tasting, meals provided by regional partners, varied itineraries catered to both conditioning level and interests of the participants, round-trip pick-up service, optional lodging, technical support and emergency recovery service, and insurance. For more information, visit the Tuscany Wine and Bike website. To keep up with the latest TWB activities and special offerings, register for their newsletter, join TWB on Facebook, and follow TWB on Twitter. Email TWB or call (+39)333 9206700.

Perlis Picks: Kobrand Tour d’Italia 2013

October 12, 2013 by evebushman

Admittedly, my wine knowledge is pretty focused on California. So, when I get an opportunity to add to knowledge outside of my primary area of expertise, especially when it is in a great environment, I do my best to jump at that.

The Kobrand Tour d’Italia 2013 wrapped up its eight-city tour at the Hotel Sofitel in Beverly Hills on September 19th. I had the pleasure to attend the guided tasting entitled: Experience the Iconic Wines of Italy.

Upon entering the room, we were greeted at our seats by seven glasses of wine – one white and six reds.

We were also greeted by who was to be the moderator of the panel discussion, Jennifer Simonetti-Bryan. Ms. Simonetti-Bryan became only the fourth woman in the United States to achieve the prestigious Master of Wine designation. She told me she started out in the banking industry – possibly that’s what drove her to drink (just like accounting probably influenced me)?

Ms. Simonetti-Bryan discussed Italy’s rich wine heritage, which is over 2000 years old. She mentioned that, while wine is of course still hugely popular in Italy, per capita consumption is down and that, in total, more Italian wine is consumed in the US than in Italy.

She then went to introduce the wineries and the individuals representing them. For the most part, the wineries were all family-owned and the representative was a family member.

The seven wines we tasted, while being educated by the representatives of the wineries, were:

Wine #1. The first wine, as indicated, was a Pinot Grigio, and the only white wine we tasted. It was much more complex and flavorful than that mass produced one that is so popular.

Website: www.pighin.com

Winery representative: Roberto Pighin

Region: Friuli-Venezia Giulia

100% Pinot Grigio

13% alcohol

Suggested retail price: $24.99

Wine #2. This wine was 100% Nebbiolo and had been barrel aged for two years with an additional 15-16 months of bottle age before release.

Website: www.chiarlo.it

Winery representative: Alberto Chiarlo

Region: Piedmont / Barolo

100% Nebbiolo

14% alcohol

Suggested retail price: $102.99

Wine #3. This was the last Italian varietal until #7. (#4, #5 and #6 are Super Tuscans, a term given to Italian wines made with French Bordeaux varietals.) I wish California Sangiovese could taste like this.

Website: www.tenutenardi.com

Winery representative: Emilia Nardi

Region: Tuscany / Montalcino

100% Sangiovese Grosso

14% alcohol

Suggested retail price: $106.99

Wine #4. As I mentioned above, we are in Super Tuscan territory now. Actually, this winery pioneered Super Tuscans, having first produced this wine in 1968.

Website: www.sassicaia.com

Winery representative: Piero Incisa della Rocchetta

Region: Tuscany / Bolgheri

85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc

13.45% alcohol

Suggested retail price: $225.99

Wine #5. This might have been my favorite wine of the day, maybe because I found it to be the most “California” in style. I know I am showing my own geographic prejudice here, but so be it. Although, see #7 below.

Website: www.tenutefolonari.com

Winery representative: Giovanni Folonari

Region: Tuscany / Chianti

100% Cabernet Sauvignon

15% alcohol

Suggested retail price: $85.99

Wine #6. A classic Bordeaux style blend from Italy.

Website: www.tenutasettteponti.it

Winery representative: Giovanna Moretti

Region: Tuscany

Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot

14.5% alcohol

Suggested retail price: $110.99

Wine #7. Back to Italian varietals to end the seminar with a great flourish. Amarone is made with dried grapes, and the flavors were intense. Tied with #5 for my favorite.

Website: www.masi.it

Winery representative: Raffaele Boscaini

Region: Veneto

75% Corvina, 20% Rondinella and 5% Molinara

16% alcohol

Suggested retail price: $174.99

This was definitely a great way to learn more about Italian wines. Sometimes, it is a good idea to venture out of your comfort zone.

Michael Perlis has been pursuing his passion for wine for more than 25 years. He has had the good fortune of having numerous mentors to show him the way, as well as a wonderful wife who encourages him and shares his interest. After a couple of decades of learning about wine, attending events, visiting wineries and vineyards, and tasting as much wine as he possibly could, he had the amazing luck to meet Eve Bushman. Now, as Contributing Editor for Eve’s Wine 101, he does his best to bring as much information as possible about wine to Eve’s Wine 101 faithful readers. (2013 Update: Eve and Michael announced Eve Wine 101 Consulting. Info is here: http://evewine101.com/press-releases/) Michael can be contacted at michaelthezinfan@aol.com.

Are Super Tuscans Within Your Reach? by Gregory Alonzo

July 18, 2013 by evebushman

Toscana is arguably Italy’s most renown wine region. It is also the homeland of antiquity’s Etruscans, who in turn, greatly influenced the Romans and their culture. Tuscany is rich in history, culture, art, and scenic landscapes that are filled with rolling hills and some of the world’s finest vineyards. Tuscany is not only the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance; it is the home of the prestigious “Super Tuscan” wines.

So what exactly is a “Super Tuscan?” The primary characteristic is that these wines must adhere to a minimum of 85% of grapes grown in Tuscany. It is also important to note that the local vintners oftentimes do not use Sangiovese as the dominant varietal. Bordeaux grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are popular choices. The wines are made in the international style and aged in new French oak barriques. The finished wines are filled with plenty of robust fruit, and lose none of their Italian soul. Due to their strong acidity, Super Tuscans are better served with food. Tignanello, Solaia, Magari, Ornellaia, Picconero, and my personal favorite, Sassicaia, produce some of the most notable and expensive wines.

Today I am joined by my very special friend and fellow sommelier, Serena Dutto. We are in the historic city of Siena, at the Plaza del Campo. It is a warm summer day and we are thankful for the shade provided by the ominous Torre del angio (Mangia Tower) that is looming above.

“Grigorio,” Serena called for my attention. “I have some wonderful surprises for you today.”

“You never fail me,” I replied evenly. “This is why I love working and spending time with you.”

“I know that in the States, most Super Tuscans are priced at $200 and above,” Serena paused to collect her thoughts.” I have selected some memorable wines that are all priced at around $50 a bottle.”

Can’t afford the famed Ornellaia at $200 per bottle? Then go with the next best option, Le Serre Nuove. This is Tenuta dell’ Ornellaia’s second label. Serena selected a Le Serre Nuove Bolgheri 2005. This dark reddish purple wine combines the smooth juicy plum fruit of Merlot (40%) and the structure, cassis, herbal notes of Cabernet Sauvignon (40%). The remainder is 15% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot. This is a full-bodied wine that is supple and fresh on the palate. The alcohol content is 13.5% with a price tag of $55.

“This wine is rich in tannins and will pair nicely with the heartiest of red meats,” Serena nodded in assurance.

“Definitely a Tuscan take on a classic Bordeaux.”

Our next selection, Villa di Capezzana, Ghiale della Furbe 1998 hails from the Carmigano district, a relatively small area just outside of Florence. This wine is a wonderful example of a Bordeaux style wine. It is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, and 20% Syrah. What makes this wine exceptional is that the Bonacossi family was able to combine the fruit and roundness of Cabernet Sauvignon, with the elegance and suppleness of Merlot and Syrah. In color, it is a deep ruby red with purple hues. This nose is filled with an array of cassis, black cherries, sage, and chocolate. This is definitely a full-bodied wine that is abundant in formidable tannins. The alcohol content is 14% with a price tag of $55.

“A fantastic wine,” Serena’s eyes sparkled as she smiled. “I often enjoy this wine with meals.”

“I would definitely say that this is a wine worthy of aging.”

“Half a case for now, and lay down the other 6 bottles,” Serena flashed me an almost mischievous grin.

Our next selection, Gaja Ca’Marcmanda Promis 2006 hails from Tuscany’s coastal district of Maremma. Over the years, the Gaja name has become synonymous with producing elegant and opulent wines. Our wine proved to be up to Gaja’s stringent standards. The 2006 consists of 55% Merlot, 35% Syrah, and 10% Sangiovese. On the eye it is a deep dark red. The nose is filled with generous amounts of dark ripe fruit. This is a wine of quality. On the palate, it is well textured and balanced. The overall experience is one of grandeur without paying a king’s ransom. The alcohol content is 13.5% with a price tag of $50.

“Gaja built their reputation producing lovely wines from Piedmont before expanding into Tuscany,” Serena was quick to add.”

“They definitely found the mark with this one,” I flashed Serena an even grin. Overall, I find this to be a most delightful and elegant wine.

“I am pleased that you enjoyed today’s Super Tuscans,” Serena smiled broadly. “I think for our next tasting we should share with our readers more of these great wines, yet with an emphasis on Sangiovese based blends.”

“Agreed,” I gave her my nod of approval. “I am, after all, rather fond of Sangiovese … But that my friends is another story.”

Carl Kanowsky’s report: VINO CALIFORNIA – A BOUNTY OF WINE

June 10, 2013 by evebushman

Vino California – contrary to its name it’s actually a celebration of Italian wines, some available at your local BevMo, some still looking for an American distributor.

And it had to be a celebration. After all, if you tried to sample every wine there, you’d either be partying big time (or praying to the porcelain god). When you enter Vino California, they give you a booklet listing all of the wine being poured. All 126 pages. Sounds like a lot of vino but that’s actually only the names of the individual wineries. Many had three to seven wines each to taste.

Contributor Carl Kanowsky sportin a Zaca Mesa cap!

Clearly, this was an arduous task but I promised Eve I would persevere through. My assignment was eased by both the deliciousness of what was being offered as well as the comeliness of the winery representatives.

Not everything I tried was wonderful. It never is at any wine event. There are always some bottles you would never buy on your own. But I don’t like writing about what I don’t like. Rather let’s talk about some of the gems offered.

My hands-down favorite was Il Borro’s Rosso Toscano 2007, a powerful blend of Merlot (50%), Cabernet Sauvignon (40%), and, wait for it, Syrah (10%). Pepper, smokiness, and extremely well balanced. And, if you check wine-seacher.com, you can find it for just $35. Accompanying that was Pian Di Nova 2010, which was fetching both for its delightful taste as well as its good value.

Tenuta La Parrina came in second with its Rosso Riserva 2005, 85% Sangiovese with a little Cab and Merlot thrown in. Another fine example of excellent wine at a good price of only about $30. Wine Advocate gave it a 90, a little stingy in my way of thinking.

Both Il Borro and La Parrina are from Tuscany. Something of a surprise to me was some of the fine Piedmont wines. I have a pre-conceived notion that anything from Piedmont needs a few decades to unwind and become approachable. However, I did discover Coppo’s Pomorosso Barbera D’Asti 2008 to be drinkable now. This is a big, bold wine that needs a big, juicy steak to bring out all of its nuances.

Overall, Vino California was a delightful introduction into what Italy has to offer.

ROMA BISTRO PRESENTS… A NIGHT TO DISCOVER WINES OF ITALY!

April 21, 2013 by evebushman

In December 2012 Roma Bistro Opened & Fine Italian Cuisine Returned To Northridge …
On Wednesday May 8, 2013 At 6:30 pm Come Dine At Roma Bistro And Discover The Italian Wines We Feature From Enotec Imports

A Wonderful Evening Awaits You With Fine Food Paired To The Wines From Enotec Imports LLC. Nationally Known For Providing Some Of Italy’s Finest Critically Acclaimed Boutique Estate Wines. Ms Katy Curry From Enotec Will Be On Hand To Guide Us Through A Delicious Journey Of Pairing Great Food and Fantastic Wines

Amuse Bouche’
Salmone Nizzarda Insalata Indivia Belga in una Tazza
(Salmon Salad Nicoise in Belgian Endive Cups)
Wine Pairing
??? Prosecco Sparkling Wine – Crisp & Refreshing: A Perfect Starter

1st Course
Gamberetti alla griglia con Basilico e avvolgere nella Prosciutto
(Grilled Shrimp with Basil and wrapped in Prosciutto)
Wine Pairing
Ca De Sarto 2012 “Friuli” Pinot Grigio – “A PG That Delivers Much More”

2nd Course
Fettuccine alla Carbonara con Pancetta e Piselli
(Fettuccini Carbonara with Pancetta & Peas)
Wine Pairing
Ca De Sarto 2009 Barbara Di Asti (Pedmonte) –

3rd Course
Pollo al Porcini
(Roasted Chicken Thigh with Porcini Mushroom Sauce and Roasted Potato
Wine Pairing
Ca De Sarto 2010 Ardente “Tuscana” Red – A Fine Super Tuscan

4th Course
Costolette brasate in cima Crema Rissotto parmigiano con asparagi
Braised Short Ribs atop Creamy Parmesan Rissotto with Asparagus
Wine Pairing
Rodano 2006 Chianti Classico – Fabulously Rich Robust Chianti

5rh Course
Balsamico Bacche Marinate e Vanilla Gellato
Balsamic Marinate Berries & Vanilla Gellatto
Wine Pairing
Palladino Moscato Di Asti – Zesty Perfumed Sexiness In A Bottle!

Cost per person $60 Includes Coffee/Tea/Soda
(Tax & Tip Not Included)

Address: 19524 Nordhoff Street – Northridge, California Phone: 818-772-7662 ASK FOR MARCO! : )

http://www.romabistro.com

Rusty Sly: Grape of the Night (GOTN) on Italian Blends

January 14, 2013 by evebushman

For our last meeting of GOTN for 2012, the varietal chosen was Italian blends from Italy. There were no stipulations on whether your wine selection was white or red which opened the door to both parties of wine drinkers. We even received a couple of twists in our line-up by members that were not sure what the varietal was, but wines are there to be compared even if the varietal was not exactly correct. With this in mind we continue to educate our palates.

Italy has three primary wine regions. First is Tuscany near Florence where Sangiovese grapes are dominant, producing Chianti and Super Tuscans. Next, we have Piedmont where Barolo and Barbaresco are produced. Last, but not least, is Venice where white wines such as Pinot Grigio and Soave are produced. Like France, most of the wines poured from Italy have definite old world characteristics on the nose as well as the palate. Two wines that were brought from the Paso Robles region allowed us to really see the differences between New World and Old World. One was a GSM (Grenache-Syrah-Mourvedre blend) and the other an Italian Vermentino from the Clavo winery in Paso Robles. The fruits in these two wines were very dominant and forward compared to the earthy, smoky subtle flavors noted in the wines from Italy. In the line-up of wines tasted and reviewed by the GOTN group, it was interesting that some had so little aromatics and taste that no one could really describe them, however, given more time to open up this outcome may have been different. Going back to the Old World differences, the sampled wines were very French like offering finely layered aromas and taste that need to be dissected carefully over time.

2007 Amarone Della Vapolicella Classico Antica Corte
2011 Vendemmia Morellino di Seansano Poggioargentiera

Aromatics: Old World which masked fruits

Taste: fruits buried by tannins and smoky

2007 Summerwood GSM Paso Robles

Aromatics: Very New World. Blueberry and smoke

Taste: Grenache is very dominant

2009 Clavo Cellars Vermentino GSM Paso Robles

Aromatics: Tropical fruits and pear

Taste: Tropical fruits, pear, light acidity and buttery

2009 Rocca d. Monte Massi Sassabruna Monterigio d. Massa Maritime

Aromatics: Old World nose

Taste: Super Tuscan (Sangiovesse and Merlot)

2010 Tormaresca Puglia Neprica

Aromatics: Negroamaro, Primitivo and Cabernet Sauvignon blend

Taste: Soft and silky, Medium-bodied, plum, dark cherry and light fig and tobacco.

It is here that I must beg for forgiveness from Larry and Gloria Stahly who joined us for the first time. After we had sampled the blends from Italy, Larry opened a Barolo that he had brought. I did not write the name down as it was not on the counter at the beginning of our tasting. Sitting here writing this article I realized my mistake. All I can say is, what a treat and I am so sorry that I did not capture the details of this spectacular wine. I remember that it had some age and could be aged much longer. Most Barolo wines (Nebbiolo grape) need years to soften and become enjoyable, happily this was not the case with this wine, it was gorgeous. Thank you Larry and Gloria for the treat.

It was quite an interesting night. During this GOTN, it was evident from the group, myself included, that we have not sampled enough wines from the various regions of Italy to know them. The wines that everyone brought were great examples of a fantastic Old World wine region. I propose that we revisit it at another time in hopes that we can all become more educated on these wines. As always, I want to thank Guy Lelarge for allowing us to have our monthly meeting at Valencia Wine Company. And who could forget our man Geno for taking care of our every need at this tasting. I hope everyone had a good time and I hope to see everyone at the next GOTN.

Cheers,

Rusty Sly