To usher in autumn, I thought it would be fun to travel to Tuscany. And the best part is that you don’t have to pack a bag or wait in long lines at the airport. A glass of Tuscan wine and an authentic Tuscan soup recipe is all you need for your travels. Let your palate take you on a delectable sensory adventure! The Wine I have selected two Tuscan wines for the journey; both pair well with the featured soup that follows. Dogajolo Toscano Rosso IGT 2020 Carpineto, a Tuscan winery founded in 1967, produces Carpineto and Dogajolo wines. This year marks a 30-year milestone for the production of Dogajolo Super Tuscans, specifically Toscano Rosso, launched in 1993. In 2009, Toscano Bianco was added to the Dogajolo line, followed by Toscano Rosato in 2011. They have 1,200 acres of sustainably farmed land spread amongst five carbon-neutral estates in the appellations of Brunello di Montalcino, Chianti Classico, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Maremma, and Alto Valdarno. This wine is 80% Sangiovese and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from Tuscan hillside vineyards. It is aged six months in previously used French and American oak barrels and cement vats, followed by four to six months in bottle. Nose: Fragrant red fruit, cherry, and baking spice. Palate: Juicy red berries spill onto the palate with cherry, plum, a hint of balsamic, and coffee beans. Smooth and delicious! Alcohol: 13% SRP: $14.99 Talosa “Alboreto” Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG 2019 Fattoria Della Talosa is a boutique winery with 33 hectares of vineyards in the heart of Montepulciano in Tuscany and has been owned by the Jacorossi family since 1972. Their historic aging cellar dates back to the 16th century. It is in the old town center of Montepulciano, in an underground area between two of the oldest buildings in the city, Palazzo Tarugi and Palazzo Sinatti. The brick passageways contain a series of vaults and niches where the barrels are placed. In 1980, Vino Nobile became one of the first four appellations given the superior status of DOCG, along with Barolo, Brunello di Montalcino, and Barbaresco. The grapes for this 100% Sangiovese are sourced from the Vino Noble di Montepulciano DOCG appellation. The wine is aged for two years in barrels of 2nd, 3rd, and 4th passage and stainless steel and then continues to age in bottle. Nose: Floral, berries, cherry liquor, baking spice, and a hint of sweet tobacco. Palate: Aromas segue onto the palate with dark cherry and spice. Tannins and acidity are beautifully balanced, with cherry, cocoa, and vanilla lingering on a long finish. Alcohol: 14.5% SRP: $25 The Soup Ribollita - An Italian Fall Vegetable Soup featuring stale bread. I would love to take credit for this Tuscan soup, but the honor goes to Iolanda Marcocci, a beautiful ninety-year-young nonna. Coleen Kiman, host and owner of Tuscan Women Cook, says, “Our first bowl of this hearty soup was prepared by Iolanda, who served it al fresco on the terrace outside her kitchen on a long, weathered table overlooking a sweeping Tuscan sunset. It is a rich sense memory we’ll always cherish.” This hearty soup is a favorite of the nonnas of the Tuscan village of Montefollonico and the participants of Tuscan Women Cook. Ribollita dates back to the Middle Ages when peasants foraged for whatever food they could find to make a thick soup, which included stale bread that, when toasted and added to the broth, maintained its shape and absorbed all the flavors. Ribollita means “re-boiled” in Italian. When “reheated” the next day, it is even better! Coleen says, “When the bread has an extra day or two to absorb even more of the flavorful broth, Ribollita will thicken and taste creamy. Feel free to add your own favorite vegetables and herbs to this recipe. There are no hard and fast rules for Ribollita, except to reheat and enjoy, day after day!” Serves 8
Ingredients
Instructions Rinse the beans in a colander and pick out any debris or small stones. Place in a medium stockpot and add cold water to cover the beans by about 2 inches. Cover and soak overnight. Drain the beans and cover them with fresh water. Add the Parmesan cheese rind. Over medium heat, simmer until the beans are tender, about 30 minutes. Set aside. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery (soffritto). Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent, for about 10 minutes. Stir in the tomatoes, the beans, and their cooking liquid. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Add the chard and cabbage. Add additional water, chicken, or vegetable stock as needed to completely cover the chard and cabbage. Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 1 hour. Adjust the seasonings to taste. Place a piece of bread in each bowl. Ladle the soup on top of the bread. Top each serving of the soup with some Parmesan cheese, a dash of olive oil, and freshly ground black pepper. Recipe and photo reprinted with permission of www.TuscanWomenCook.com from the Tuscan Women Cook Cookbook. Tuscan Women Cook: Nonnas. Memories. Recipes cookbook is a wealth of generational recipes put together by Coleen Kiman with Rhonda Vilardo. The nonnas of the village of Montefollonico and neighboring towns shared the recipes. The book has over 50 delectable recipes, photos, stories, and many tips. Enjoy the wine and soup, and happy travels! Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com Occasionally, I take stock of my “wine cellar” and open a bottle or two that has been collecting dust. While perusing the various labels this morning, I stumbled upon a box of three wines hidden so well I had genuinely forgotten about it. It was an exciting find, which inspired me to open one of the bottles and pair it with the evening’s dinner. The wines were a gift from Giovanna Neri, owner of Col Di Lamo in Tuscany, specifically Montalcino! Montalcino is located amongst the rolling hills of Tuscany, home to one of Italy’s most renowned wines, Brunello Di Montalcino. Montalcino is a small wine region comprised of 60,000 acres of olive groves, forests, and farmland, of which 3,500 acres are devoted to wine vineyards. Made exclusively from the Sangiovese grape, (named ‘Brunello’ in Montalcino), Brunello Di Montalcino was awarded the first-ever DOCG designation (Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin) in 1980, the highest designation given under Italian wine law. Brunello di Montalcino is one of Italy’s most famous and distinguished wines. The skin of the Sangiovese grape is thick and tends to deliver fruit-forward wine with bright acidity and high tannins. The climate in Montalcino is warm and dry, typical Mediterranean weather. Vineyards are planted up to 500 meters in elevation, with north-facing slopes experiencing a cooler microclimate and more winds. In contrast, the southern and western-facing slopes are exposed to extreme sunlight and maritime breezes. The vines are planted in various soils such as limestone, clay, schist, volcanic soil, and galestro, which is schistous clay soil commonly found in most of Tuscany’s best vineyards. All these elements can contribute to the difference in quality, complexity, and character of the wine. Regulations require that Brunello di Montalcino age for a minimum of two years in oak wooden barrels and at least four months in bottle before release. The Riserva wine must age at least six months in bottle and is released a year later onto the market. And the wine can only be bottled in the location where it is produced. These wines have an aging potential of 30 years if stored properly and acquire more complexity the longer it ages. Col Di Lamo Col Di Lamo is an exclusive, all-female organic winery owned by winemaker Giovanna Neri and her daughter, Diletta. The winery was founded in 1994 after her daughter was born. The estate covers an area of approximately 80 hectares. Giovanna inherited her passion for wine and winemaking skills from her father, who passed away in 1991. Giovanna considers her wines “her creations” (children) and continually spreads her love and respect for the land and her products. It is a small production winery of quality and refinement. Here is an excerpt from my interview with Giovanna a few years ago. What inspired and motivated you to make this an all-female winery? Giovanna: For me, it was a natural process. My company is my creation, which I wanted for myself and for which I fought a lot in a world that was still very male-chauvinist, especially the wine industry. Compared to others, I had to prove triple to make it clear that a woman, completely alone and starting from scratch, could create wines of the highest quality. When I tell my story, I always say that I consider my company another daughter of mine. I gave it a name; I dedicated all the commitment, love, and dedication I have to it, as with my daughter Diletta. Where did you do your training to become a winemaker? Giovanna: I graduated with honors in law and embarked on a career as a lawyer. I felt, however, that this work, although gratifying, was not my way. So, at the age of 40, I decided to drastically change my life and have a part of the family business (it’s not so obvious if you are a woman). So, without any particular skills and the help of anyone, I threw myself body and soul into this fantastic adventure. There have been challenging times. The beginnings were really hard; I only had men around me, and no one believed I could do it. Luckily, they are the same men who now hold me in esteem. What is Diletta’s role in the company? Giovanna: Diletta helps me in communication. I believe a young vision is essential in a world that runs more and more on the Internet, especially social networks. Tell me about some of your challenges with winemaking and the industry. Giovanna: I strongly believe in wine and organic products in general. I was among the first to choose this type of cultivation in Montalcino, not without criticism. But I am convinced that it is the future. I feel like a guest in this land, and I have chosen to do this job precisely because I love the planet and want to respect and enhance it as much as possible, even for future generations. Although all three wines are highly rated, I chose to open the Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2016 This wine is hand-harvested and fermented with native yeasts. It is aged 24 months in oak barrels and six months in steel tanks. Nose: Berries, floral, cherry, earth, tobacco, herbs, fig and baking spice. Palate: Rich, savory, and balanced with blackberry, dark plum, cloves, cinnamon, nice acidity, and a long finish of savory and sweet dark berries. Simply elegant! Alcohol: 14% SRP: $68 Pairing suggestions: Aged cheese, roasted meat and game, hearty soups, stews, mushroom risotto, and seared tuna. I paired this wine with a thick, hearty, nutritious Lentil Tomato Soup filled with carrots, celery, onion, and an assortment of herbs. If you would like the recipe for the soup, please email me. Contact information is below. Until next time,
Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com It’s hard to believe that summer is almost over, and autumn is just around the corner. I’m looking forward to cooler weather, embracing fall foliage, and changing the menu to include hearty soups and stews. And I love pouring a decadent red wine to pair with autumn! So, let’s explore a few Tuscan wines from the San Felice Estate. The historic estate of San Felice is situated in Chianti Classico in the commune of Castelnuovo Berardenga, with vineyards throughout Tuscany’s three most prestigious wine-making areas. They have 150 hectares in Chianti Classico, 23 hectares in the municipality of Montalcino, and 15 hectares in Bolgheri. 80% of their vineyards are devoted to Sangiovese, which is at the heart of their production. Here is a selection of three eclectic wines from their Chianti Classico Estate. Pugnitello Toscana IGT 2020 Pugnitello is an ancient and indigenous Tuscan grape variety. Its name in Italian is “little fist,” which refers to the shape of its cluster. San Felice has collaborated with the universities of Florence and Pisa in their experimental vineyards for the past 20 years, focusing on saving this grape from extinction. This wine is 100% Pugnitello. It is aged 18-20 months in French oak barriques and another eight months in the bottle. Nose: Dark fruit, perfume, baking spice, and toasted oak. Palate: Aromas segue onto the palate with blackberry, plum, and vanilla. It is rich and smooth. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $57.99 Pairing suggestions: Hearty red-sauce pasta, roasted fowl, lamb, stews, mushroom risotto, and aged cheese. Vigorello Toscana IGT 2019 This wine was first produced in 1968 and became part of what is known as the Super Tuscans. This term is applied to a style of high-quality Tuscan red wines that might include a blend of indigenous and non-indigenous grapes. This wine is a blend of 35% Pugnitello, 30% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Petit Verdot. It is aged in French oak barriques for 24 months and then eight months in the bottle. Nose: Red jam, forest floor, baking spice, and roasted coffee beans. Palate: Rich and beautifully structured with dark cherry, dark berry, earthy, hint of herbs, and vanilla lingering on a long finish. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $57.99 Pairing suggestions: Aged cheese, grilled or roasted meat, game, vegetable stew, Porcini risotto, or seared tuna. Poggio Rosso Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG 2017 To quote San Felice, “Poggio Rosso is the fruit of a rigorous selection of Sangiovese grape variety from selected parcels of the same single vineyard, and today it represents the pinnacle of San Felice’s terroir. A wine of immense depth and superb elegance, produced in limited quantity and exclusively in outstanding vintages.” This wine is 100% Sangiovese and aged 20 months in French oak barrels and then 15 months in the bottle. Nose: Intoxicating floral notes, red cherry, berries, plum, and baking spice. Palate: Earthy, with smooth tannins, plum, red berries, a trace of herbs, and a hint of fennel. Vanilla and dark chocolate linger on a long and delicious spicy finish. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $65.99 Pairing suggestions: Aged cheese, roasted or grilled meat, game, stews, or hearty pasta dishes. Wine from the Bolgheri Estate Bell’Aja Bolgheri DOC Superiore 2020 The Bolgheri DOC runs parallel to the Tuscan coast, bordering the Ligurian Sea. Bell’Aja Vineyard is located in a natural amphitheater overlooking the sea and benefits from abundant sunshine and cooling sea breezes. Grapes for this wine are sourced from Le Sondraie, the oldest Merlot parcel of this vineyard. The wine is 95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. It is aged 18 months in French oak barrels. Nose: Jammy fruit, cherry, licorice, cocoa, roasted coffee beans, and spice. Palate: Juicy dark berries, plum, spice, toast, and silky tannins balanced with acidity. A beautiful wine with a long and satisfying finish. Alcohol: 15.5% SRP: $68.99 Pairing suggestions: Pasta, roasted game, glazed duck, aged cheese, and stew. Wine from the Campogiovanni Estate Campogiovanni Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2018 The grapes for this 100% Sangiovese wine are sourced from the Campogiovanni vineyards situated on the south quadrant of the Montalcino hill and considered an excellent area for the production of Brunello. San Felice has 23 hectares here, of which 14 hectares are Brunello vineyards. This wine is aged 36 months in French oak barrels and Slavonian oak, followed by twelve months in the bottle. It is one of the San Felice Estate’s flagship wines. Nose: Ripe red berries, dark jam, earthy, balsamic notes, baking spice, and a hint of leather.
Palate: Aromas segue onto the palate with plum, pepper, and a touch of herbs. It is beautifully structured and rich, with a long and elegant finish that begs for another sip. Alcohol: 14% SRP: $66 Pairing suggestions: Wild game, grilled meat and fowl, aged cheese, pasta, vegetable stew, and truffle risotto. All of these wines have aging potential and will surely please the palate! If you missed my “It’s Wine & Dine Time!” article featuring a San Felice wine and a recipe prepared by Borgo San Felice Executive Chef Juan Quintero, click on this link. http://thewineknitter.com/the-journal/its-wine-dine-time Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com The month of April is ending with her classic “April showers” all weekend long. And we all know what May brings! I’m looking forward to May flowers, warmer weather, spending more time outdoors, and taking the kitchen outside for the grilling season. Just because the warmer months are almost upon us does not mean one has to pack away the red wines along with mittens and boots. On the contrary, red wines are to be enjoyed year-round and are a great accompaniment to many summer dishes. So to kick off the season, I’ve rounded up a selection of six red wines that will pair beautifully with whatever you might have on the grill. The wines range from $13.99 to $25.00 and will not disappoint your palate. Bodegas Valdemar Conde Valdemar Crianza 2018 Bodegas Valdemar Winery is located in Oyon, Alava Spain, and has a history of winemaking dating back to 1889. They have 300 hectares of vineyards throughout Rioja and are considered one of the largest estates in Rioja. Grapes for this wine are a blend of 89% Tempranillo, 7% Mazuelo, and 4% Graciano sourced from estate vineyards in Rioja Alavesa and Rioja Alta. The wine is aged in American oak barrels for 17 months. Nose: Fragrant notes of blueberries, cherry, and baking spice. Palate: Juicy dark berries, cherry, vanilla, and earthy. Tannins and acidity are well-balanced, with dark fruit lingering on a long finish. Alcohol: 14% SRP: $19 Pairing suggestions: Cheese platter, grilled meat, tuna, veggies, pasta, stews, and pizza. Veramonte Pinot Noir 2020 Viñedos Veramonte is an organic estate located at the extreme eastern end of Chile’s Casablanca Valley. The Veramonte vineyards are in both Casablanca Valley and Colchagua Valley. This wine is made with 100% Pinot Noir organic grapes from Casablanca Valley. It is aged for eight months in natural oak. Nose: Red berries, bing cherries, a hint of spice, and earthy. Palate: Strawberry, raspberry, and plum dance on the palate. Fresh with good acidity, silky tannins, and a long, savory finish. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $13 Pairing suggestions: Grilled meat and poultry, risotto, pasta, or seafood salad. Cline Eight Spur Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley 2020 This California wine is produced by Cline Family Cellars, established in 1982, a family-owned and operated winery. The grapes for this 100% Zinfandel are sourced from Dry Creek Valley in Sonoma County, one of the oldest growing areas in California. The valley holds the daytime heat, ripening grapes until sundown when cool ocean breezes whistle through the canyon, extending the growing season to increase varietal complexity. The wine is aged in 40% new French oak for 15 months. Nose: Berries, dark cherry, plum, and baking spice with a hint of lavender. Palate: Aromas segue onto the palate with notes of raspberry, blackberry, blueberry, and vanilla. It is rich, smooth, and well-structured, with sour cherries and vanilla lingering on the finish. Alcohol: 14.5% SRP: $25 Pairing suggestions: Grilled anything! BBQ ribs, spicy cuisine, pizza, seared tuna, or roasted leg of lamb. Graffigna Glorious Collection Malbec 2020 Graffigna was established in 1870 when Santiago Graffigna left Italy and arrived in San Juan, Argentina, bringing with him his passion and wine expertise. It is considered one of the oldest wineries in San Juan. Today, Santiago’s vision and spirit are honored with each bottle produced, and care is taken to maintain the quality and character of the grapes. The grapes for this 100% Malbec are sourced from the Uco Valley in Mendoza. 70% was aged in French oak for 12 months, and 30% in concrete and stainless steel vats. Nose: A touch of violet, plum, sour cherry, and baking spice tease the senses. Palate: Concentrated and juicy fruit, with aromas spilling onto the palate. Blackberry and plum linger on the finish, with soft tannins and nice acidity. Alcohol: 14.5% SRP: $18.99 Pairing suggestions: BBQ, grilled meat and veggies, mushroom risotto, stews, or a charcuterie board. Cantine Ermes Epicentro Nero d’Avola Riserva Sicilia DOC 2018 Cantine Ermes was founded in 1998 in the heart of Belice Valley in Sicily. It is a cooperative “born from the idea of young Italian minds.” They produce wines from Sicily, Veneto, and Puglia, with an impressive 10,592 hectares of vineyards spread across these territories, with the majority of vineyards in Sicily. This wine is 100% Nero d’Avola aged in 500-liter tonneaux for 18 months. Nose: Lovely bouquet of dark fruit, plum, berries, and baking spice. Hints of toasted oak and minerality waft through the fruit. Palate: Aromas continue onto the palate with strawberries, cherry, clove, and pepper. Soft tannins and well-balanced with a rich blackberry jam finish. Alcohol: 14% SRP: $17 Pairing suggestions: BBQ, grilled meat and fowl, marinated lamb, pasta, stew, or mature cheese. Talosa Rosso Di Montepulciano DOC Toscana 2020 Talosa is a boutique winery with 33 hectares of vineyards in the heart of Montepulciano in Tuscany and has been owned by the Jacorossi family since 1972. Their historic aging cellar dates back to the 16th century, which is in the old town center of Montepulciano, in an underground area between two of the oldest buildings in the city, Palazzo Tarugi and Palazzo Sinatti. The brick passageways contain a series of vaults and niches where the barrels are placed. The grapes for this wine are 85% Sangiovese, Merlot and Canaiolo, 15%. It is aged in stainless steel, tonneaux, and large barrels for a minimum of three months. Nose: Floral, strawberries, blueberries, cherries, and a hint of spice. Palate: Fresh and lively, with notes of plum and sweet cherry, a balsamic undertone, and a touch of spice on the finish. Very nice. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $25 Pairing suggestions: Grilled red and white meat, appetizers, seared tuna, spicy cuisine, or risotto. I hope these wines pique your interest! Below is a delicious recipe for marinated tuna steaks. It is an easy recipe to make and works using the grill, broiler, or a quick sear on the stovetop. I love it! And all of these wines will pair beautifully with it! Marinated Tuna Steaks For The Grill Courtesy of allrecipes.com Ingredients (for four servings)
If you try any of the above wines, please share your thoughts and pairings!
Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com Several months ago, I was invited to a virtual tasting of Famiglia Cecchi Wines led by their oenologist, Miria Bracali. It was a memorable sampling of wines representing a few of Cecchi’s estates in Chianti and Maremma, located in Tuscany. In 1893, Luigi Cecchi founded the company in a small Tuscan village. It has since been passed on from one generation to the next, and today is led by brothers Cesare and Andrea, the fourth generation of the family. The Estates Today In addition to the Cecchi estate, the family owns and oversees five other wine estates, four in Tuscany and one in Umbria. The family’s first purchase was Villa Cerna in the early 1960s, located in Castellina in Chianti. Today there are 80 hectares of established vineyards surrounding the renovated winery. In 1996, the family purchased 25 hectares in the burgeoning wine area of Maremma. After constructing an elegant winery, they named it Val delle Rose. Located in the Municipality of Grosseto, the estate today comprises 105 hectares of mainly Sangiovese proprietary vineyards used to produce Morellino di Scansano DOCG. By the end of the 1990s, the family began to look beyond their Tuscan borders and invested in the wine area of Montefalco in Umbria. They purchased Tenuta Alzatura, 26 hectares of vineyards across three parcels, dedicated to the enhancement of native vine varieties and the production of the region’s namesake label, Montefalco Sagrantino DOCG. In 2015, the Villa Rosa estate in Castellina was added to their winemaking estate portfolio. Villa Rosa is comprised of 30 hectares of vineyards that give rise to a traditional and elegant Chianti Classico DOCG. The last acquisition was made in 2018 when the family purchased 6 hectares of vineyards in Montalcino. The estate is called Tenuta di Montalcino. Throughout all the estates, sustainable winemaking is ongoing and vital to the Cecchi family, and they “consider protecting the environment a duty for those who work in the agricultural field. Territories are to be considered a heritage that must be defended and respected.” Here are four of the eight wines sampled from the estates of Valle delle Rose, Villa Cerna, and Cecchi. Val delle Rose Cobalto Maremma Toscana DOC 2020 The soil in Maremma has more acid, along with sand and rocks, resulting in more sapidity in the wines. This wine is 100% Vermentino. Fifty percent of fermentation takes place in oak, 34% in amphora, and 16% in stainless steel tanks. It is aged ten months with a minimum of six months in bottle. Nose: Sweet, herbal, minerality, and a hint of tropical fruit. Palate: Dry and fresh, with pear, white stone fruit, vibrant acidity, sapidity, minerality, and toasted oak. A complex and delightful wine with notes of the sea lingering on the palate. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $45-50 Pairing suggestions: Enjoy as an aperitif or with fish, seafood, mushroom risotto, or grilled chicken. Val della Rose Poggio al Leone Morello di Scansano Riserva DOCG, 2019 This wine is 90% Sangiovese and 10% Corvina. After fermentation in stainless steel tanks, the wine is aged for a minimum of 12 months in barriques. Nose: Floral, red, ripe fruit, earth, and spices. Palate: Plum, cherry, minerality, smooth tannins, baking spice, and cocoa with a long finish. Alcohol: 14.5% SRP: $35 Pairing suggestions: roasted or grilled meat and game, stews, risotto, or vegetable pizza. Cecchi Chianti Classico “Storia di Famiglia”, DOCG, 2020 This is Cecchi’s first Chianti Classico wine and most distributed. It is 90% Sangiovese, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Corvina. The wine is aged for a minimum of two months in bottle. Nose: Floral, red fruit, spice Palate: Fresh red fruit with nice acidity, cherry notes, cranberry, medium tannins, good balance, and a juicy finish. Alcohol: 13.55 SRP: $20 Pairing suggestions: Game, grilled tuna, pasta with sautéed greens, or chicken. Villa Cerna Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 2018 Produced only in the best vintage years, this wine is 95% Sangiovese and 5% Corvina. 2018 was an excellent year for Sangiovese. The grapes are sourced from vineyards used only for Riserva wines. This wine is aged 14 months in barriques and small barrels, with a minimum of nine months in bottle. Nose: Floral aromas with red fruit, cedar, espresso beans, and spice.
Palate: Nice balance of freshness and acidity, with ripe red fruit, cherry, berries, baking spice, mineral notes, and a long finish. Alcohol: 14% SRP: $35 Pairing suggestions: Grilled meat, game, aged cheese, chicken parmesan, or pasta. If you’ve never tried Cecchi wines, then now is the time to indulge your palate with these Tuscan gems. They are reasonably priced and available almost everywhere. Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com It is a rare occasion that I write about importers of wine and spirits. My focus is usually on the wine or spirits producer. However, I make exceptions now and then, especially when seduced by my love for Italian wine! So, I’m giving a shout-out to Votto Vines. And, since the three Italian wine samples I received were very palate-pleasing and all under $30, what’s not to write about? Votto Vines is a family-owned and operated business founded in 2009 and headquartered in Connecticut. Michael P Votto is the CEO and co-founder of this dynamic business, focusing on importing, marketing, and distributing fine wines produced by leading vineyards worldwide. It all began when Mike Votto took a vacation to Tuscany. After falling in love with a small winery that lacked distribution in the US, he saw a business opportunity. So he pitched the idea of starting an importing company to his family. Today, Votto Vines has 30+ employees in five states and nationwide distribution capabilities. Here are three wines that represent Mike’s love for Italy and mine! Nestore Bosco Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC 2018 Nestore Bosco is a family-run business in the province of Pescara, in Abruzzo. Founded in 1897 by Giovanni Bosco, it is led today by Nestore and Stefanio, with the fifth generation ready to step in. The company has been certified organic since 2018 and practices sustainability. This wine is 100% Montepulciano d’Abruzzo and aged for several months in Slavonian oak barrels. Nose: Floral, dark cherry, red berries, a hint of plum, spice, and herbs. Palate: Aromas segue onto the palate with a smooth and well-balanced finish. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $13 Pairing suggestions: Charcuterie board, aged cheese, pasta, roasted meat, or risotto. Castelli del Grevepesa Clemente V11 Chianti Classico DOCG 2018 Established in 1965 by Sir Armando Nunzi, Castelli del Grevepesa is a modern- day cooperative that started with 17 winegrowers and now has over 120 associate winegrowers. Their objective is to produce high-quality wines that comply with the strict regulations of the law and Consorzio del Chianti Classico, and focus on sustainability. This 100% Sangiovese is hand harvested from the Chianti Classic zone. 85% is aged in Slavonian oak barrels for 12 months, and 15% in barriques for 12 months. It remains in bottle for three months. Nose: Fragrant red and dark berries, plum, and baking spice aromas. Palate: Dark cherry, berries, spice, vanilla, a hint of anise with subtle acidity, soft tannins, and a long finish. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $16 Pairing suggestions: Roasted red meat, game, hearty stews, or pasta. Torrevento Vigna Pedale Castel del Monte Riserva DOCG 2016 With a family history that goes back to 1913, Torrevento was established by the Liantonio family in 1989 and is located in the provinces of Bari and Barletta-Andria-Trani in the Puglia region. They manage over 500 hectares of vineyards with an eye on sustainability, research, and quality. Nero di Troia is an indigenous grape to Puglia, and Torrevento was the first winery in the world to make a 100% Nero di Troia in 1992. The grapes for this wine are sourced from vines over 30 years old. It is aged in large barrels for 12 months Nose: Lovely aromas of cherry, raspberry, herbs, earth, and spice.
Palate: Aromas spill onto the palate with a touch of plum, berries, silky tannins, and a long finish. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $28 Pairing suggestions: Roasted or grilled meat, game, and white meat. Hearty soups, stews, aged cheese, or pizza. Enjoy the sip! Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com It is always a treat to pour a glass of Brunello Di Montalcino, but especially lovely when you can share the moment (virtually) with Count Cinzano, owner of Col d’Orcia! In May 2022, I wrote an article about Col D’Orcia based on a tasting with the Count, which took place earlier that year. Here is an excerpt from the article to bring you up to speed about this most iconic winery and region. Gently rolling hills dominate the landscape of Tuscany, famous for its medieval towns, wine vineyards, striking cathedrals, and the birthplace of renowned artists such as Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Leonardo da Vinci. Amongst this beauty and history lies Montalcino, home to one of Italy’s most famous wines, Brunello Di Montalcino. The village of Montalcino sits high up on a hill with vineyards sloping down into the valley. Montalcino is a small wine region comprised of 60,000 acres of olive groves, forests, and farmland, of which 3500 acres are devoted to wine vineyards. Count Cinzano said that only 50% of the land in Montalcino is farmed, and of that, only 15% is planted with vineyards. There are roughly 250 wineries here that produce Brunello di Montalcino. Brunello di Montalcino was awarded the first-ever DOCG designation (Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin) in 1980, and it is considered one of Italy’s most famous and distinguished wines. DOCG is the highest designation given under the Italian wine law. Brunello di Montalcino is made exclusively from the Sangiovese grape (named ‘Brunello’ in Montalcino). The skin of the Sangiovese grape is thick and tends to deliver fruit-forward wine with bright acidity and high tannins. And, of course, climate, soil, and production play a big part in the wine’s outcome. The climate in Montalcino is warm and dry, typical Mediterranean weather. Vineyards are planted up to 500 meters in elevation, with north-facing slopes experiencing a cooler microclimate and more winds. In contrast, the southern and western-facing slopes are exposed to extreme sunlight and maritime breezes. The vines are planted in various soils such as limestone, clay, schist, volcanic soil, and galestro, which is schistous clay soil commonly found in most of Tuscany’s best vineyards. All these elements can contribute to the difference in quality, complexity, and character of the wine. Nestled amongst the hills in a setting worthy of a painting sits one of the original estates of Montalcino, Col D’Orcia, with a winemaking history that dates back to the 1700s. The estate’s name translates to “the hill overlooking the Orcia River” due to its position between the undulating hills of the Orcia River and Sant’Angelo in Colle. The estate was sold to the Cinzano family in 1973 and only had a few hectares of vineyards at the time of purchase. Count Francesco Marone Cinzano, who now owns and manages the estate, took over Col D’Orcia in 1992. He increased his father’s plantings from 70 hectares to 150+ hectares today. And 108 of those hectares are dedicated to Sangiovese. In 2010 they began the process of converting their vineyards to organic. By 2013 all wines were certified organic. And today, it is the largest certified organic vineyard in Tuscany and the third-largest owner of Brunello vineyards in Montalcino. The Count’s mission is to produce quality wines from these hills. He said, “Quality is the result of healthy fruit. We are not just winemakers; we are farmers. We grow grapes and practice biodiversity.” He pays his respect to mother nature and is always searching for excellence. His motivation to become organic was “not to change practices, but change the mindset of people by using a homeopathic and holistic approach; that is the greatest challenge to becoming organic. And the beauty of protecting this special environment is to pass it on to future generations.” As mentioned above, Brunello di Montalcino is made exclusively from the Sangiovese grape. DOCG Regulations require that Brunello di Montalcino age for a minimum of two years in oak wooden barrels and at least four months in bottle before release. The Riserva wine must age at least six months in bottle and is released a year later onto the market. And the wine can only be bottled in the location where it is produced. At my most recent tasting we enjoyed three exceptional wines, all made with 100% Sangiovese grapes. Brunello Di Montalcino DOCG 2017 Count Cinzano explained that due to a year of great drought and heat wave, there was a small harvest, and only this label was produced. The wine is aged three years in 25, 50, and 75 hl. Slavonian and French oak casks and a minimum of one year in bottle before release. (hl is a hectolitre and equal to 100 liters) Nose: Floral, herbs, ripe red fruit, plum, and cherry notes. Palate: Lush red fruit with dark cherry, plum, baking spice, herbs, and licorice. Medium tannins with fresh acidity and a long finish. Alcohol: 14.5% SRP: $63.99 Brunello Di Montalcino Nastagio DOCG 2016 The grapes for this wine were harvested from a single vineyard. Count Cinzano said this wine is the best vintage in recent history and is not produced every year. Nastagio is a five-hectare single vineyard planted in 2006 and composed entirely of Sangiovese clones specially selected from research work in partnership with the University of Florence. The wine is aged the first year in tonneaux (5 hl), then subsequent years in large “botti,” followed by an additional 12 months in bottle. Nose: Lush red fruit aromas, baking spice, tobacco, and a hint of earth. Palate: An expressive wine with balanced acidity and smooth tannins. Notes of plum, dark fruit, licorice, and spice with a playful, sweet, and savory finish lingering on the palate. Alcohol: 15% SRP: $89.99 Poggio Al Vento Brunello Di Montalcino Riserva DOCG 2015 The grapes for this wine are sourced from a single, seven-hectare vineyard planted in 1974 called Poggio al Vento, which means “windy hill.” The first vintage was produced in 1982. The sea winds and the special soils of marl and limestone influence the vines. This wine is only produced in the best vintages and is the icon of the estate. It is aged for three years in 25 and 75hl Slavonian and French oak barrels and then for three years refinement in bottle. This wine is the only Riserva the estate produces. Nose: Beautiful and intense berry notes with spice, earth, tobacco, floral, and minerality.
Palate: Complex and well-structured, aromas segue onto the palate with rich red and dark fruit, herbs, anise, and firm tannins. A very long and satisfying finish. A remarkable wine! Alcohol: 15% SRP: $172.99 Count Cinzano said, “These are wines made to serve with food. It is the concept of drinkability and enjoying wines with food.” Here are a few food pairing suggestions for the above wines: Aged cheese, meat dishes, stews, game, tomato-based pasta, grilled veggies, grilled portobello mushrooms, risotto with truffles, and dark chocolate for dessert. Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com With snow in the forecast for many of us, it’s time to light a fire, prepare a hearty meal, and open a bottle of wine. So here are three palate-pleasing red wines to sip by the fire or enjoy with a meal. And if you’re basking in balmy weather. I’ve included a fresh and sassy white wine! But, of course, all four wines are great to drink any time of year! Abate Lugana DOC 2021 Lugana DOC is a small denomination located on the southern banks of Lake Garda, which crosses over both the Lombardy and Veneto regions in northern Italy. Lugana is renowned for its white wines and distinctive morainic terroir of penetrating humid clay soils and rich minerals deposited by the glacial moraines of thousands of years ago. The wines are naturally high in acidity with characteristic aromas of white flowers and citrus. Trebbiano (Turbiana) is this region’s signature white grape. The Abate family has been growing grapes here since 1920, but it wasn’t until generations later that they produced their first wine. Abate Wine was founded in 2018 and is owned by Sergio Abate. This wine is 100% Turbiana. Nose: Floral, peach, apple, citrus, and minerality. Palate: White stone fruit, vibrant acidity, and minerality driven. Notes of lemon, a hint of herbs, and a creamy mouthfeel. Alcohol: 13% SRP: $10 Pairing suggestions: Enjoy as an aperitif, or serve with seafood, light appetizers, mushroom risotto, and salads. Casalforte Valpolicella Superiore DOC 2020 Riondo Winery, founded in 2008, is an offshoot of the cooperative consortium Collis Veneto Wine Group. Valpolicella is east of Lake Garda, situated in the province of Verona. Valpolicella produces the famous grape varieties Corvina, Rondinella, and Oseleta, and it is considered the most famous red wine area in Veneto. Valpolicella was given DOC status in the 1960s. Many styles are produced here, such as Classico, Superiore, Amarone, and Ripasso, and range from light and easy-drinking to powerful and complex wines. This wine is a blend of Corvina, Rondinella, Corvinone, and other grapes. It has been aged partly in stainless steel and partly in wood casks for 12 months. Nose: Fragrant aromas of cherry, plum, baking spice, herbs, and hints of yeast. Palate: Rich and silky with cherry, blueberry, anise, vanilla, smooth tannins, and a long finish. Alcohol: 13% SRP: $15.99 Pairing suggestions: Grilled or roasted meat, game, creamy pasta, seared tuna, or aged cheese. Talosa Nobile Di Montepulciano Riserva DOCG 2017 Talosa is a boutique winery with 33 hectares located in the heart of Montepulciano in Tuscany and is owned by the Jacorossi family since 1972. Their historic aging cellar dates back to the 16th century. It is in the old town center of Montepulciano, in an underground area between two of the oldest buildings in the city, Palazzo Tarugi and Palazzo Sinatti. The brick passageways contain a series of vaults and niches where the barrels are placed. In 1980 Vino Nobile became one of the first four appellations given superior status of DOCG, along with Barolo, Brunello di Montalcino, and Barbaresco. This wine is 100% Sangiovese. After carefully selecting grapes, the fermentation time is about 20-25 days at controlled temperatures in stainless steel. The maturation is for three years in new oak tonneaux and 2nd passage, big barrels, and stainless steel. The finished wine continues to age in bottle for at least six months before release. It has an aging potential of over 15 years. Nose: Rose petals, berries, cherry, baking spice, and earthy. Palate: Concentrated flavors of dark berries, plum, cherry, and spice. Silky tannins, nice acidity, and understated minerality. Elegant, bold, and structured with a long finish. Alcohol: 14.5% SRP: $38 Pairing suggestions: Beef, game, hearty stews, pasta, or vegetable pizza. Cuslanus Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG Classico Riserva 2015 Albino Armani Winery has been making wine since 1607. Today, the family project boasts five privately owned estates composed of 330 hectares of vineyards. The family vineyards are in three major Italian wine-growing regions: Veneto, Trentino, and Friuli-Venezia Giulia. Albino has a strong bond with the land and says, “Sustainability = Viticulture and Social Responsibility.” All of the Albino Armani vineyards since 2019 have been given the SQNPI certification. This national certification aims to help agricultural ecosystems monitor and reduce environmental impact, reducing the use of synthetic chemicals and rationalizing all agronomic practices such as fertilization and irrigation. This wine is a blend of Corvina, Corvinone, and Rondinella. The grapes are sourced from vineyards in the high hills of the Valpolicella Classico production area at 500 meters. After a careful selection in the vineyard, the grapes are put in trays and left to dry in a drying loft called “fruttaio,” located next to the winery. This “appassimento” process is very slow in order to support the concentration of sugar, structure, and aromas. In the first months of the year following the harvest, the grapes are gently pressed, and then a long and slow fermentation in contact with the skins takes place. After this, the wine is aged for a long time in big barrels and tonneaux until bottling. It is then released to the market after at least four years. Nose: Lovely aromas of dark cherry, berries, spice, and a hint of earth.
Palate: Fine ripe fruit with cherry, red and dark berries, fennel, sweet spice, chocolate, and fine-grained tannins. An elegant and seductive wine. Alcohol: 15.5% SRP: $59.99 Pairing suggestions: Brisket, game, pasta, vegetable stew, truffle risotto, or sip and enjoy on its own. I hope these wines have piqued your interest. I’m ready to cozy up to a roaring fire with a glass of wine and a hearty stew! Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com There is a saying that it takes a village to raise a child. And, at Il Conte Villa Prandone, it takes a determined family to produce noteworthy wines. Spanning three generations, the De Angelis family has dedicated themselves to making wine since the 1950s. Today, third generation Emmanuel (winemaker), Walter and Samuel (vineyard managers), and Marina ( office management) continue their grandfather and father’s philosophy and tradition. Each generation’s love of the land and passion for work in the vineyards and cellar are evident. Emmanuel De Angelis said, “Our philosophy is very simple. We want to preserve, protect, and respect our land. There are three elements; history, the identity of the territory, and style.” What began with their grandfather planting seven hectares has now grown to 50 hectares under vine. The winery is situated in the province of Ascoli Piceno, near the enchanting medieval village of Monteprandone in the beautiful Marche region of central Italy. The vineyards here benefit from the gentle breezes of the Adriatic Sea to the east and the mild currents of the Sibillini Mountains to the west. In addition to the beneficial microclimate, night and day temperature variations help to keep the grapes healthy. The medium-textured clay-limestone soil contributes to aromas and unique flavors. And the terroir is a perfect haven for giving the wines good structure and alcohol content. Most of the wine produced at Il Conte Villa Prandone comes from indigenous grapes, but they also grow a few international varieties. Sustainability and biodiversity are practiced in all of their vineyards. Recently, Il Conte Villa Prandone sent me six wines to try while participating in a fun zoom session with Emmanuel and Mara Bastiani De Angelis, the export manager. These wines are an elegant expression of the land and the family’s passion. Navicchio Offida Pecorino DOCG 2021 This 100% Pecorino is their only white wine that is vinified and aged in concrete tanks and amphoras. Emmanuel calls it “our diamond. It is a white wine in a red body.” He also said that it has a shelf life of 10+ years. Nose: Floral, spice, citrus, and a hint of yeast. Palate: Lovely acidity, citrus, lots of spice with lemon zest on the finish. Vibrant, fresh, and complex. Alcohol: 13% SRP: $15 Pairing suggestions: Enjoy as an aperitif or serve with seafood, poultry, salads, and mushroom risotto. Donello Marche Sangiovese IGP 2020 This wine is 100% Sangiovese. After fermentation, the wine is preserved in cement tanks before bottling. Mara said, “It is our best-selling wine.” It is intended to be consumed within eight to ten years of the vintage. Nose: Floral, spice, berries Palate: Fresh with cherry, red berries, a hint of violet, spice, and herbs. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $14-15 Pairing suggestions: Grilled meat, mature cheese, hearty stews, or game. Marinus Rosso Piceno Superiore DOP 2017 This is a blend of 70% Montepulciano and 30% Sangiovese grapes. It is aged for one year in oak barrels. Emmanuel called it “an intense wine.” Nose: Cherry, berries, baking spice, fennel, and a hint of espresso. Palate: Sweet and savory with dark berries, spice, and smooth tannins. Cherry and spice linger on the finish. Alcohol: 14% SRP: $20 Pairing suggestions: Grilled meat, game, seared tuna, hearty pasta, or stews. Zipolo Marche Rosso IGP 2018 This wine is an international blend and is produced in extremely limited quantities. The first bottle was produced in 1999. It is a selection of Montepulciano, Sangiovese, and Merlot grapes. The wine is aged 16-24 months in oak barrels and another 12 months in bottle. Emmanuel suggests giving it time to open up, perhaps an hour before serving. Nose: Intense aromas of plum, dark berries, baking spice, and toast. Palate: Concentrated flavors of blackberry, plum, baking spice, and vanilla. Velvety tannins, complex, and well structured. Alcohol: 14% SRP: $25 Pairing suggestions: Roasts, stews, hearty soups, vegetable risotto, and mature cheese. Lu Kont Marche Rosso IGP 2018 This wine is 100% Montepulciano sourced from single vineyards with 50-year-old vines. It is aged in oak barrels for 12 months, then another 12 months in concrete tanks. It rests for at least six months in the bottle before release. Emmanuel suggests opening one hour before serving. Nose: Fragrant and fruity with berries, baking spice, and herbs.
Palate: Aromas segue onto the palate with pomegranate, cherry, anise, and minerality. It is savory, complex, and elegant. Alcohol: 15% SRP: $30 Pairing suggestions: Roasts, game, poultry, hearty stews, pasta, mushroom risotto. IX Prandone Marche Rosso IGP 2017 The label is a dedication to the town founded in the ninth century. The wine is 100% Merlot that is produced in very limited quantities. It is fermented in concrete tanks for 25-30 days and then aged in oak barrels, concrete tanks, and amphoras for 30 months. It then rests in bottle for one year. Nose: Violet, ripe red fruit, plum, berries, baking spice, and earthy. Palate: Juicy with good structure, cherry, blackberry, spice, and a hint of cocoa. Alcohol: 14.5% SRP: $80 Pairing suggestions: Grilled meat, game, spicy cuisine, roasted/caramelized vegetables, or charcuterie. I encourage you to explore these wines, and, better yet, put Marche on your bucket list of places to visit and sip a glass of wine surrounded by beauty! Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com Beginning with October and every month to follow, I will feature one wine and a pairing suggestion and recipe from the wine producer or winemaker. To get the ball rolling, I have two winners this month, both from Italy. San Felice Il Grigio Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG 2017 San Felice estate is located in the heart of Chianti Classico in the commune of Castelnuovo Beradenga. With over 140 hectares of vineyards, 80% is devoted to Sangiovese, which is at the heart of their production. Their presence extends to the prestigious terroirs of Montalcino and Bolgheri as well. This wine is made with 80% Sangiovese, sourced from the estate’s top vineyards. The other 20% is a blend of native Tuscan varieties such as Abrusco, Pugnitello, Malvasia Nera, Ciliegiolo, and Mazzese. The wine is aged 24 months, 50% in large 60-100-hectoliter Slavonian oak casks and 50% in 225- and 500-liter French oak barriques. It is then aged in bottle for eight months. Nose: Floral, juicy fruit, sour cherries, smoky wood, herbs, and spice. Palate: A beautiful and expressive wine with notes of plum, dark berries, and spice fused with elegance and subtlety and balanced with lush tannins and acidity. Hints of vanilla and sour cherry linger on a long finish. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $38.99 Pairing Suggestions: Wild game, grilled meat, aged cheese, pasta, truffle risotto, or sip with a chocolate dessert. Winemaker Leonardo Bellaccini suggests the following recipe to pair with the wine, prepared by Borgo San Felice Executive Chef Juan Quintero. MACARONI, BEURRE NOISETTE, MUSSELS, LAMB AND ANISE Time: 20 minutes Ingredients for four servings: Sauce 100g (3.5 oz) unsalted butter (for the beurre noisette or brown butter) 120g (4.2 oz) cleaned mussels (without the shell) 100ml (3.38 fl oz) of white wine 4 garlic cloves 2 tablespoons of anise seeds 100 ml (3.38 fl oz) of mussel water Garnish 160g (5.6 oz) Fatless lamb meat (loin) 2 Nori seaweed sheets 50ml (1.6 fl oz) olive oil Black pepper 300g (10.5 oz) High Quality “maccheroncini” (pasta) Preparation Open the mussels in a pan with white wine, garlic, and parsley. Cover, and after a couple of minutes, they will be open. Turn off the heat and remove the shell of the mussels and strain its water, preserving it. Separately melt the butter and let it cook until it turns brown; add the mussel water so the butter doesn’t get burned. Add the anise and the mussels, and turn off the heat. Blend until smooth. There is no need to add salt because the mussel water is salty enough. Cook the pasta in plenty of salted water, drain and then add to the cream of butter. For serving, chop the lamb meat like a classic tartare, then season with salt, oil, and pepper, and cover with nori seaweed. On the base of the plate, arrange the lamb with seaweed, and finally, serve the pasta on top. Donnafugata Floramundi Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG 2020 Donnafugata has five estates throughout Sicily, with one in Vittoria located in southeastern Sicily. It is in this special region where Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG is produced. It is considered one of the most noteworthy wines produced in Sicily and the only wine in Sicily with a DOCG status! The indigenous grapes Nero d’Avola and Frappato are the only varieties allowed in the blend. Nose: Intense floral aromas envelop the senses with notes of violet, cherry, red berries, and spice that segue onto the palate. Palate: This is a fresh and juicy wine with personality. Hints of rose, strawberry, and spice linger on the finish. Soft tannins and a crisp finish add to the entertainment. Alcohol: 13% SRP: $30 Pairing Suggestions: Mature cheese, risotto, seared tuna, and calamari. Donnafugata suggests pairing the following recipe with Floramundi. Swordfish with Citrus Fruit and Pistachios
Time: 20 minutes Difficulty: Intermediate Ingredients for four servings: 4 swordfish steaks, about 200 g (7 oz) each 1 bunch of wild fennel 2 cloves of garlic 1 chili pepper a handful of sultana raisins, another of pistachios orange juice and rind juice of one lemon 1 glass of white wine 0-type flour, butter Instructions Flour the swordfish steaks. In a slightly buttered pan, sauté the garlic and chili pepper. As soon as the garlic browns, remove it. Add the floured fish and sauté. Then add the white wine, sultana raisins, wild fennel, and minced orange peel. As soon as the wine evaporates, add the orange and lemon juice and a pinch of crushed pistachios. Cover and continue cooking; if necessary, add citrus juice. Serve with the reduced sauce and a handful of pistachios covering the fish, garnishing the platter with two orange slices. Enjoy! Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com |
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