This Saturday we are focusing on Piedmont.  And YES, we are pouring a fabulous Barolo from Luigi Pira, but we are also pouring some less know but intriguing wines from the region.  Most are Organic although not necessarily certified as such.  Several are also great matched for the upcoming Turkey.  There are plenty of reasons to stop by and give them a try.
 
2016 Antoniolo, Erbaluce di Caluso   $17
This white variety grows only in Alto-Piemonte and provides a terrific alternative for fans of Gavi di Gavi or even Loire Valley whites, such as Sancerre. The Eraluce has vibrant aromas of ripe peach and subtle white flowers, with citrusy, refreshing flavors and terrific minerality.  Organic
 
2015 Boschis Francesco Dolcetto Dogliani  Pianezzo $16
A family farm, the Francesco Boschis estate is run by Mario Boschis with the collaboration of his wife and their two adult sons. They not only have some of the best high-altitude, old vines plantings of Dolcetto in the Dogliani appellation but also grow hazelnuts, as well as keep bees and cattle on their farm. Though the family works organically by definition, they are not certified.  This dry and intense Dolcetto delivers wonderfully earthy flavors and classic red fruit –dark red berries, iron, smoke and leather all inform the superb finish.

2011 La Colombera Arché        $19
100% Croatina
The Semino family wine estate, La Colombera, is one of Piedmont’s rising stars. Based in the village of Vho, among the pretty, calcareous clay hills of Tortona, it’s a third generation, 22 ha property planted with Timorasso, Barbera, Croatina & Dolcetto.  A different Piedmont red the Arché is all Croatina which shows complex red fruits including plum, cherry and wild berry jams pink and green pepper, vanilla and nutmeg lead to a hint of herbal balsamic. Soft and warm palate is supported by good acidity and dense tannic structure. fruity and spicy notes are well defined on the palate.  Organic
Was $28 now $19

2014 Luigi Pira Serralunga Barolo $42
Nebbiolo
“One of Piedmont’s superstars… these are wines of extraordinary complexity and breathtaking richness. The spectacular offerings from Pira ‘s vineyards in and around Serralunga d’Alba are among the more riveting examples.” – Robert Parker.  The wine is firm and juicy with leather, light tar and dark-berry aromas and flavors, a medium body and a fresh finish.  The flavor is persistent and supple with a good balance between tannins and acidity. Organic
 
2017 Viberti, Moscato d’Asti  $18
Viberti, located in the village of Barolo was founded in the early 20th century by Antonio Viberti, an innkeeper and restaurateur and the wine produced from the estate vineyards was exclusively for the patrons of the restaurant.  In the intervening years they expanded and now we get some here in the US.  The Moscato has intense aromas of fresh grapes, peaches and white flowers. It is delicately sweet and sparkling with balanced acidity, good complexity and a finish of fresh grapes.

Madrona Wine Merchants offers free wine tastings featuring 4-5 selections on a theme every Saturday from 2 until the bottles run out and on Sunday, we offer a mini-tasting of two wines all day from 11-5.