Saturday we’re showcasing a solid line up of Classic Italian wines — crisp Pinot Grigio from Veneto, Barbera and Nebbiolo from Piedmonte, and a classic Sangiovesse Classico from Tuscany. To be a little different, we threw in the Grangia. It is soon to be a classic. Stroll on up to the shop and refresh yourself with the taste of Italy.
2010 Italo Cescon, Pinot Grigio $13
From Veneto the Cescon Pinot Gris has aromas of nutmeg, peach, and acacia floating off the wines fruity overtones and orange peel structure. It is a lovely dry white with rich and persistent flavor.
Elvio Tintero, Vino Blanco Secco, Grangia $12
50% Favorita, 25% Moscato, 20% Arneis and 5% Chardonnay
The Grangia is an unusual frizzante (slightly sparking) blend made by a family estate in the Piedmont. It is crystal clear in color with a palate as refreshing as a mountain stream and flavors of prickly pear, lemongrass, and white pepper.
2010 Franco Sera, Barbera d’Alba $10
From 25 year old vines, the Sera Babera is hand harvested, macerated for a three weeks period followed by four weeks of fermentation in stainless steel at controlled temperatures, then aged in oak barrels (20% new) for six months. The result is a rich and fruit driven Barbera at a great price. The wine has notes of sweet spice, chocolate and red fruit aromas with hints of tobacco along with its raspberry and strawberry flavors, light tannins and well balanced acidity.
2008 Nada, Barbaresco Casot $21
Nebbiolo
Nada is located in Treiso, one of the four villages of Barbaresco. The estate comprises 9 hectares of vines with the Casot vineyard being next door to Angelo Gaja. The family retains a traditional approach to winemaking with the wine aging in large, old barrels rather than small barriques. The Casot is a classic feminine styled Barbaresco with forest floor notes, focused spice, whiffs of roses, tar, herbs, tobacco, and rosemary and a good structure and length.
2007 Viticcio, Chianti Classico Reserva $30
Sangiovesse
Viticcio Riserva made Wine Spectator’s Top 100 Wines of 2010. Usually that means you can no longer get it, when the list comes out, but in this case there is still a bit left and today we are showing it off. Come be your own critic. Subtle currant, cedar and floral aromas follow through to a dense, full-bodied palate of ripe fruits and silky tannins, with a long finish. A little age will soften this just slightly. Really serious. Best after 2010. 3,000 cases made.-JS WS 93pts
Sunday, we’re having a Special Tasting of New Greek wines.
3-5 pm
More info soon.