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Leave it to Terlato Wines to give you seats behind home plate from the comfort of your living room!  Photo courtesy of Chicago Cubs It was quite a treat to receive a sample of their Limited Edition ‘The Federalist Cabernet Sauvignon 2018, a Yeti cocktail tumbler, a tin of Garrett popcorn, and a collectible Federalist baseball.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss The Federalist is a wine brand created by wine producer Terlato Wines, launched in 2010. It features a range of wines sourced from several AVAs such as Lodi, Sonoma County, and North Coast in California. All the wines are cellared and bottled by Federalist Vineyards. The Federalist pays homage to the Founding Fathers, Statue of Liberty, and the American Bald Eagle with etched portraits on each bottle. “Born from the virtues of every forward-thinking, hard-working, red-blooded American, this is The Federalist. This Is American Craft Wine.” And what better way to honor a national pastime? Turlato wines’ The Federalist has teamed up with the Chicago Cubs and will be offering their wines at stadium concession stands and restaurants during baseball season. Or you can buy a bottle of The Federalist and watch baseball from the comfort of home.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss The Federalist Lodi Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 The wine is rich and flavorful with dark fruit notes, plum, baking spice, and smoke. It is well-balanced with smooth tannins and a long finish. Alcohol: 13.9% SRP: $23.99 However you decide to participate in the MLB 2021 season, please be smart and stay safe!  Photo courtesy of Chicago Cubs Until next time…
Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com  On the hiking trail of the Prime Donne Located amongst the rolling hills of Tuscany lies Montalcino, home to one of Italy’s most renowned wines, Brunello Di Montalcino. Made exclusively from the Sangiovese grape, this wine was awarded the first-ever DOCG designation (Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin) in 1980. It is the highest designation given under Italian wine law.  Montalcino With a history that dates back to the Etruscans, winemaking has always been part of the culture here, including a male-dominated industry burdened by discrimination and habit. However, female winery owners and winemakers have taken Montalcino by storm and transformed and turned the tides to make a place for women in the wine industry. Let me introduce you to three of these dynamic and revolutionary women of Brunello Di Montalcino, who I had the opportunity to chat with recently. DONATELLA CINELLI COLOMBINI With an estate and family history of winemaking dating back to the 16th century, owner Donatella Colombini created Casato Prime Donne in 1998. It is the first winery in Italy with an all-female staff, borne out of the desire and need to reduce discrimination and show that “muscle” is not the only ingredient required to produce wine.  Donatella Cinelli Colombini What circumstances led you to create an all-female staff? Donatella: To be truthful, it happened by chance. I am the descendant of a historic family of Brunello producers. My vineyards are on land that my ancestors began cultivating over 400 years ago. In 1998 I left the family estate to create a new project that included two properties that needed renovation: Casato in Montalcino and Fattoria del Colle in southern Chianti. To help me, my mother gave me some wine in a barrel to begin my own production of Brunello. I needed a cellar master to take care of my wines, so I called the nearest oenology school and asked for the name of a good student. They told me that they were all booked. When I called back and asked for a female student, the reply was, “We have many, as none of the good wineries want them.” I realized that discrimination was so widespread that it had become “normal,” so I decided to change the situation. From this incident came the idea of creating the “Prime Donne” Project and becoming the first winery in Italy to be staffed only by women. It demonstrates that the production of fine wines does not require muscles, just talent, and intelligence. Now we have three female winemakers, and we export to 39 nations around the world. The wine critics’ ratings are excellent, and sales are going very well. In the beginning, it was difficult, but we did it. Part of the Prime Donne project is also the Brunello Prime Donne chosen by a panel of four female wine tasters, the Prime Donne award (given to women who change the female model), and a hiking trail with quotes from the winners. You are a pioneer and inspiration to women. If you could tell the future generations of women winemakers one thing, what would it be? Donatella: I would tell them to have more courage and to learn something new every day of their life. Women are much better than they think they are, but they must have more faith in their talent. Often women renounce because they are scared of not succeeding. They renounce so they can dedicate time to the family. But this is a mistake; they will be better professionals, mothers, and wives if they accept the challenges life puts in their way. If they do not even try, then they have already lost. In the same way, it is wrong to search for professional success at any cost. “Those who go alone walk more quickly, but those who walk with others go much further,” says an old proverb to which I would like to add a phrase: Those who help others go forward will never be alone and will have given meaning to their life. GIOVANNA CIACCI Giovanna comes from a long line of winemakers with family roots that go back to 1850 when the family estate Tenuta di Sesta was founded. At that time, the family was immersed in cultivating grapes, olives, and grain. It wasn’t until 1966 that Giuseppe Ciacci bottled the estate’s first Brunello di Montalcino. In 1994 the original estate was divided among family members. Giovanna took her share of land and in 1995 created Tenuta di Collosorbo. Today, she and both of her daughters run the 30-hectare winery. Giovanna manages the general administration. Her daughter Laura works as both an oenologist and a viticulturist. Her other daughter Lucia is the agronomist and also responsible for marketing.  Giavanna Ciacci with daughters Laura and Lucia Tell me about Tenuta di Collosorbo. Giovanna: Tenuta di Collosorbo comes from one of the oldest estates of Montalcino, owned by our family since 1850. After the death of Giuseppe Ciacci, his sons decided to split the estate. It was 1995, and I gave a new name to the estate, Tenuta di Collosorbo. I have always been focused on elegance, quality, and traditions. In 2008 my daughters Laura and Lucia started working full time at the estate, making it one of the first female estates in Montalcino. Many children that grow up in a family business tend to go off and do their “own thing”. Did your daughters always know that they wanted to be part of the family business? Giovanna: Laura and Lucia grew up surrounded by the taste and smell of the wine. When they were young, before university, they were torn between their roots, estate, passion, and family, and their desire to do something different with their powers. Lucia thought of becoming a doctor, and Laura wanted to become a veterinarian. But in the end, their passion for the estate, their roots, countryside, and wine won. And both of them decided to study for it. What challenges do you and your daughters face as women in this industry? Giovanna: The wine business has been mainly a male world until 15 years ago. In the beginning, it wasn’t easy to demonstrate our competence and our power, both inside and outside of the estate. But now, after 26 years, we are really proud of our job and of the teamwork that we have created inside Collosorbo. GIOVANNA NERI Col Di Lamo is an exclusive, all-female organic winery owned by Giovanna and her daughter, Diletta. It 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. However, she took a detour before returning to her roots. 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.  Giovanna Neri 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. I think I had to prove triple, compared to others, 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 had 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 very difficult 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 ones who now hold me in esteem. What is Diletta’s role in the company? Giovanna: Diletta helps me in communication. I believe that 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 I want to respect and enhance it as much as possible, even for future generations. All of these amazing women are members of Il Consorzio del Vino Brunello di Montalcino, founded in 1967. Its mission is to safeguard its product and accentuate the best qualities of Brunello wines. It is a free association comprised of 203 producers representing small and large wineries, including 22 producers outside the Consorzio. As part of Il Consorzio’s initiative, Finally Brunello will be taking place in New York from June 14th through June 20th. It is an excellent opportunity to taste Brunello wine from 56 wineries paired with food from 38 participating restaurants presenting a prix fixe menu. To learn more about this event, visit https://www.finallybrunello.com/ A note on the Feature Photo: The work of art depicted in this photo is called Points of View and is located on the hiking trail of the Prime Donne connected to Casato Prime Donne Award. Until then… Cheers! Penny This story was originally published on Santé Magazine. To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com It doesn’t matter what time of year it is when it comes to sipping rosé wines. But, a chilled glass of rosé in hand during the warmer months is quite divine! The spring and summer seasons always bring stunning blooms bursting with an array of colors and seductive fragrances. Not to be outdone by mother nature, rosé wines are made in various styles, enticing aroma and alluring shades of pink. And the bottles tend to be beautiful as well. With so many choices on the market, one might be inclined to start a rosé garden!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss In its simplest terms, wine gets its color from the skin of grapes, and there are several methods of achieving this with rosé wine. Limited Skin Maceration Rosé wine is produced from red grapes with limited skin contact during maceration. After harvest, the grapes are crushed, and the juice is allowed time on the skins, which could be just a few hours or up to a week. The less time spent on the skins, the lighter the color of the wine will be. The longer the maceration, the darker and more flavorful the rosé will tend to be. After maceration, the juice is drawn off, and fermentation of the wine begins. Direct Press With this method, the grapes are pressed to remove the skins (such as with white wines), and juice is immediately drawn off, only allowing the juice to contact the skins for a very short time. This process produces some of the lightest-hued rosés. Winemakers often use this method for darker-skinned grapes. Saignée Method This method is also referred to as the “bleeding” method. It was originally a method used to make concentrated red wines. With this technique, red wines are vinified using a standard process, but in the early stages of maceration, the winemaker will “bleed” some of the red wine juice from the tank and then vinify it separately as a rosé. Saignée rosés are richer, darker, and more flavorful. Some winemakers like to age their Saignée rosés in oak barrels. The variety of grapes used, the regions, production techniques, and harvest year all play a significant role in these wines’ style, color, and flavor. Rosé wines can range from delicate to rich, extra-dry to sweet, simple tank fermentation to barrel-fermented, and runs the spectrum of diverse flavors such as light citrus to deeper, fruitier wines. For many consumers, buying rosé wine is motivated by the “pink” wine in a pretty bottle that complements the care-free months of warm weather. For others, it is the country, region, style, and grape variety that influences their purchase. Here are a few pretty shades of pink in both still and sparkling style that I hope inspire you to start your rosé garden!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Still Rosés  Photo credit: Penny Weiss France Château Puech-Haut Tête de Bélier Rosé AOP Languedoc 2019 The grape blend for this rosé is 99% Mourvédre and 1% Grenache, sourced from Languedoc-Saint Drezery vineyards. Aroma: Citrus, strawberry, floral, and a touch of minerality Palate: Lovely layers of fresh berries, notes of exotic fruit, citrus, and spice. A complex wine with a generous mouthfeel and long finish. Alcohol: 14.1% SRP: $34 Jean-Luc Colombo Cape Bleue Rosé 2020 This is a blend of 67% Syrah and 33% Mourvédre. Grapes are sourced from vineyards in the hills above the bay of Marseille, next to Provence. The saignée method is used, and then the wine juice is fermented in stainless steel tanks for three weeks. Aroma: Rose petals, raspberry, white stone fruit, and watermelon Palate: Crisp and refreshing with notes of raspberry, peach, minerality, and a touch of sour cherry. Alcohol: 12.5% SRP: $14.99 Côté Mas Aurore Rosé Pays d’Oc IGP 2020 Domaines Paul Mas is located in Languedoc, where 20% of the estate vineyards are farmed organically, with the rest farmed using sustainable practices. This rosé is a blend of 50% Grenache, 30% Cinsault 10% Syrah, and 10% Vermentino. The bottle is very eye-catching with its colorful label! Aroma: Floral, strawberry, cherry, and a hint of melon Palate: Ripe red fruit with lush berries and nice acidity with a mineral edge on the finish. Alcohol: 14.2% SRP: $13.99 Spain Inazio Urruzola Getariako Txakolina Rosé DO 2019 This estate is located in the heart of Basque country. The wine is a blend of two indigenous grapes, 50% Hondarr Abi Zuri and 50% Hondarr Abi Beltza. Aroma: Floral, fresh berries, and green apple Palate: Juicy fruit, berries, ruby grapefruit, Vibrant acidity balanced with minerality. Quite refreshing. Alcohol: 10.5% SRP: $20 Italy Bertani Bertarose IGT 2020 The historic Bertani winery is located in the Veneto region of Italy. This rosé is made with 75% Molinaro and 25% Merlot. Grapes are sourced from hillside vineyards above Lake Garda. Grapes are vinified separately, with only the Molinaro having skin contact. The blend is then aged in stainless steel tanks for about three months on the lees. Aroma: Floral, red and dark fruit, pomegranate, and grapefruit. Palate: White flowers, ruby grapefruit, strawberry, and a hint of cherry. Lovely balance between acidity and salinity. Alcohol: 12% SRP: $19.99 Planeta Sicilia DOC Rosé 2020 Planeta has vineyard locations in five territories spread throughout Sicily with six boutique wineries. The grapes for this rosé were sourced from Dispensa Estate in Menfi (western Sicily) and is a blend of 50% Nero d’Avola and 50% Syrah. Aroma: Floral, red berries, melon Palate: Berries, white stone fruit. A refreshing, dry wine with crisp acidity and hints of minerality and salinity. Alcohol: 12.5% SRP: $19.99 Austria Pratsch Niederösterreich Rosé 2020 This wine is made from 100% Zweigelt grapes sourced from organic vineyards in the Weinviertel region bordering Vienna. Aroma: Strawberry, hints of citrus Palate: A delicate and dry rosé with flavors of pear, strawberry, and juicy white stone fruit. Refreshing acidity and lemon zest on the finish Alcohol: 11.5% SRP: $13 Argentina Susana Balbo Signature Rosé 2020 Sourced from Valle de Uco in Mendoza, this rosé is a blend of 60% Malbec and 40% Pinot Noir. Grapes are fermented in stainless steel tanks for 20 days. Aroma: Ripe berries, cherry, citrus, and a hint of minerality Palate: Aromas continue onto the palate with notes of strawberry. Fresh, vibrant, and juicy. Alcohol: 13% SRP: $20 Sparkling Rosés Sparkling rosés are available in a variety of styles produced around the world. They are made in either the traditional method, where the second fermentation takes place in the bottle, or the tank (Charmat) method, where the second fermentation occurs in a steel tank. Sparkling wines go by different names depending on country/region/appellation of origin, such as: Champagne and Crémant – France Sekt – Germany Cava – Spain Prosecco – Italy  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Crémant De Bourgogne Rosé NV Brut AOC This wine is produced by Prosper Maufoux, located in the south of the Côte de Beaune in Burgundy, France. It is a blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Gamay, made in the Traditional Method. Aroma: Ripe red fruit, berries Palate: Crisp and light, soft citrus notes, strawberry, raspberry. Fine bubbles. Alcohol: 12% SRP: $19 Santa Julia Argentina Brut Rosé NV This wine is 100% Pinot Noir. Grapes are sourced from Tupungato vineyards in Mendoza. The direct press was used and wine produced using the Charmat method. Aroma: Nice strawberry and raspberry notes. Palate: Crisp and lively with light notes of fresh berries and pomegranate. Creamy, with a touch of yeast and nice acidity. Alcohol: 12.5% SRP: $13 Prosecco Rosé As of January 1, 2021, the Denomination di Origins Controllata (DOC) consortium gave its final stamp of approval for making Prosecco Rosé, setting these wines apart from other pink sparkling wines made in Italy. The grapes for Prosecco Rosé must be sourced from a specific geographic area that has passed the Italian Government’s quality requirements. Only Glera grapes (85 -90%) and Pinot Noir (10-15 %) are allowed. The DOC guidelines also require that Prosecco Rosé be fermented for at least 60 days in stainless steel tanks. Also, they must be vintage-dated and labeled Prosecco DOC. These sparkling wines range in style from very dry to slightly sweet. If you are a fan of Prosecco, then you will enjoy these sparkling rosé wines.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Gran Passione Prosecco DOC Rosé Millesimato 2019 Extra Dry
It is produced by Botter, located in the Veneto region. 85% Glera, 15% Pinot Noir Wine is made using the Charmat method. After bottling, it is cellared for two years. Aroma: Floral, red berries, and cherry Palate: Fresh and crisp, with notes of pear, citrus, honey crisp apples, and strawberry. Fine perlage. Alcohol: 11% SRP: $13 Il Fresco Prosecco DOC Rosé Millesimato 2020 Villa Sandi produces it. The grapes for this wine come from Treviso, the heart of Prosecco. Wine is made using the Charmat method. Aroma: Floral, berries, apple Palate: Fresh, light, and dry. Red berries, sweet apple, pomegranate, citrus, and a touch of floral. Creamy mouthfeel and fine bubbles. Alcohol: 11% SRP: $17 Riondo Prosecco Rosé DOC Millesimato 2020 Extra Dry This wine is produced by Collis-Riondo, located in the Veneto region. It is a blend of 90% Glera and 10% Pinot Noir. Aroma: Floral, cherry, fresh berries, and apple Palate: Dry and lively with juicy notes of raspberry, peach, cherry, and sweet apple. Creamy mouthfeel and fine bubbles. Alcohol: 11% SRP: $14.99 All of the above wines will drink beautifully as an aperitif or pair nicely with light appetizers, seafood, salads, grilled chicken, Asian and Mediterranean dishes, and desserts. A big thank you to Winesellers, LTD, Folio Fine Wine Partners, and Taub Family Selections for their generous contribution to my rosé garden. Until next time... Cheers! Penina This story was originally published on Santé Magazine. To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com This story was originally published on Santé Magazine When one thinks of the Tuscany wine region, Chianti Classico (the heart of the Chianti zone), Brunello di Montalcino and Bolgheri DOC might come to mind. Known as Toscana to Italians, this beautiful wine region with its rolling hills, medieval castles, ancient roads, olive trees, and wine vineyards is renowned for its Sangiovese-based red wines. Almost two-thirds of the vineyards in Tuscany are planted with Sangiovese. This grape is high in tannins and acidity, and depending on where Sangiovese is grown and how it is vinified, the wine’s characteristics will ultimately reflect its origins.  Sangiovese grapes Photo courtesy ofConsorzio Tutela Montecucco Tuscany is located in central Italy, stretching along the Tyrrhenian Sea coastline to the west, Liguria and Emilia-Romagna to the north, Umbria and Marche to the east, and Lazio to the South.  Map is courtesy of Consorzio Tutela Montecucco Nestled between Montalcino and Scansano in the southern part of Tuscany is a hidden gem called Montecucco.  Photo courtesy of Jonathan Skule The Etruscans in the sixth century B.C. cultivated vines and produced wine here. According to Consorzio Tutela Montecucco, “In the 1970s, the first two geographical appellations in our territory were officiated, considered forerunners of the Montecucco appellation; the Montecucco Denomination of Origins (DOC) was officiated in 1998.” In 2011, Montecucco Sangiovese was established as a separate DOCG. The newly appointed president of the Consorzio, Giovan Battista Basile, added “Sustainability, a key element in the DOC and DOCG where almost 70% of production is organic, will be the main asset of the consortium. Another important asset is the uniqueness of the Sangiovese grape, the “king” of the denomination, characterized by its high quality and distinctive personality. These are the strengths that will allow us to consolidate the positive trends recorded in the past years and further strengthen our presence, starting in Italy and extending to the global market.” The Montecucco Consortium, founded in 2000, represents 68 wine producers. They also represent over 500 hectares of vineyards out of 750/800 hectares, which produces more than 1.2 million bottles. The vineyards in Southern Tuscany are at lower altitudes than the rest of Tuscany, creating a warmer climate. Since Sangiovese grapes are late to ripen, this is an ideal location. Because of Montecucco’s proximity to the sea, the vineyards benefit from the cooling maritime breezes off the coastline, moderating the warm temperatures. This, in turn, produces healthy, fully ripe grapes. A few areas of clayey soil are present, but most of the territory consists of non-calcareous soils, which are very suitable for cultivating vines and olives. In addition to Sangiovese, the other principle red grape is Ciliegiolo. The principle white grape varieties are Grechetto, Vermentino, Malvasia and Trebbiano. The regulations for making Montecucco Rossa DOC and Sangiovese DOCG are as follows: Montecucco Rosso DOC: must be at least 60% Sangiovese. The Riserva must age for at least 12 months in barrel and six months in bottle before release. Montecucco Sangiovese DOCG: must be at least 90% Sangiovese, aged for a minimum of 12 months in barrel and four months in bottle before release. The Riserva must be aged for a minimum of 24 months in barrel and six months in bottle. Here is an introduction to two wineries and wines (samples) in Montecucco.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Poggio Stenti Poggio Stenti is a small family winery owned by the Pieri family and run by Carlo Pieri, a well-known salami producer. Stenti translated means “hardships” in Italian. The estate was named to acknowledge the harshness of farming life in the Montenero d’Orcia district. The Pieris are farmers at heart, cultivating small land plots designated for Sangiovese, Vermentino, and Cabernet Sauvignon. They have 30 hectares of land encompassing the vineyards, an olive grove, barley, spelt, and wheat crops. They also breed pigs and calves. Poggio Stenti is located in Monte Amiata, a stone’s throw from the historic vineyards of Montalcino  Poggio Stenti Olive Fields Poggio Stenti Montecucco Rosso DOC 2019 This wine is made from 90% Sangiovese, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from the estate’s vineyards. The wine is aged for about eight months in stainless steel tanks and then six months in the bottle before release.  Nose: Ripe cherry, plum, earth, spice Palate: Vibrant red fruit, spice, mocha. Silky tannins, with a nice balance of sweet and savory on the finish. Pairings: Grilled meat, stews, seared tuna, appetizers, and pizza. Alcohol: 14% SRP: $15 Peteglia Peteglia is owned by two brothers, Marco and Emanuele Innocenti. They both have an extensive background in the study and research of the agricultural sector. What began in the 80s with their parents Claudia and Sergio exploring agriculture eventually turned into a profitable company 30 years later. Today they have approximately 70 hectares of land dedicated to vineyards, olive groves, and the cultivation of cereals. Five hectares are designated for Sangiovese, Vermentino, and Cabernet Sauvignon. They also raise Chianna lgp cattle. The Peteglia farmhouse sits on a hillock overlooking the slopes of Monte Amiata.  Photo courtesy of Peteglia Peteglia Montecucco Sangiovese Riserva DOCG, 2016 This wine is 100% Sangiovese made with grapes from vineyards of about 35 years of age. The wine is aged 36 months in large Slavonian oak barrels and then in the bottle for another 12 months before release. The Riserva is made only in the best vintage years.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Dark cherry, berries, herbs, earth, spice, balsamic notes.
Palate: Aromas carry over to the palate with blackberry, vanilla, smooth tannins, vibrant acidity, and a long, rich, satisfying finish. Pairings: Grilled meat, poultry, charcuterie, pasta, seared tuna. Alcohol: 15% SRP: $25 Peteglia recommends decanting this wine before serving. These are impressive wines and an incredible bargain at these prices. I can’t wait to explore this “hidden gem” in person! Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com My virtual airplane has landed in Rioja, Spain, just in time to sample a delicious glass of wine from this region.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Located in north-central Spain, Rioja consists of valleys that stretch along the Ebro River. It is divided into three sub-regions: Rioja Oriental, Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa  https://www.cellartours.com/spain/spanish-wine-maps/la-rioja Bodegas Beronia was founded in 1973 by Gonźalez Byass, a group of friends and businessmen with a shared passion for good food and high-quality wines. The winery is located in the heart of the Rioja Alta sub-region, in a village called Ollauri.  Photo courtesy of Bodegas Beronia The area of Beronia was named by the Berones who inhabited the region of Rioja in the third century BC. They were warrior people of Celtic origin, dedicated to agriculture, livestock, pottery, and metallurgy. Bodegas Beronia’s name pays homage to the primitive inhabitants of this land. The winery is surrounded by 900 hectares of vineyards, small, individual parcels owned by growers. The average age of vines is 30 years, with 50 hectares dedicated to old vines of more than 60 years of age. The winery and growers have a long-standing relationship, guaranteeing that the best quality fruit is produced and supplied to the winery.  Photo is courtesy of Bodegas Beronia Matias Calleja, Beronia’s winemaker, personally supervises the vineyards and selects only the best vineyard plots for his wines. Over 85% of Beronia’s vineyards are planted with Tempranillo, the traditional grape of Rioja. Graciano, Mazuelo, Garnacha and Viura make up the other 15%. Sustainable farming techniques are practiced, and “environmentally friendly” methods are applied during the vinification process. 95% of the wines produced are red, with particular attention and dedication to long aging in French oak, American oak, and mixed barrels. Matias Calleja designed and created the mixed barrels that are made of American staves and French tops.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Beronia Crianza DOCa Rioja 2017 Crianza is a Spanish wine classification indicating the wine is aged for a minimum of one year in oak barrels and a few months in bottle. This wine is made with 94% Tempranillo 5% Garnacha and 1% Mazuelo. It is aged for 12 months in mixed oak barrels with American staves and French tops to create “the Beronia” style. The wine rests in the bottle for three months before release.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss A vibrant and deep red color leads to aromas of cherry, raspberry, herbs, and baking spice. The palate offers a rich blend of lush fruit, dark cherry, berries, spice, and vanilla. Smooth tannins and a long finish with lingering notes of cherry and vanilla beg for another sip. Serve with grilled meats, hearty stews, soups, seared tuna, and assorted cheese.
Alcohol: 14.5% SRP: 750 ml/$14.99 350 ml/ $7.99 I love the 375ml bottle. It is perfect for a single serve, especially for our online, social distancing cocktail hours! Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com This story was originally published on Santé Magazine. “Every generation brings their touch, with their own history and own experience.” Thirty-six-year-old Delphine Nathalie Gardère is the fifth generation and newest CEO of Rhum Barbancourt, one of Haiti’s largest rum exporters. Delphine is the second woman in her family to attain the head position in the company’s history. Rhum Barbancourt is the oldest rum company in Haiti, founded by Dupré Barbancourt in 1862.  Delphine Nathalie Gardère In a virtual conversation with Delphine, she said, “My grandfather, a jurist/entrepreneur, brought the business from the back of the family house to the equivalent of the Great Plains of Haiti, which was a revolution. My father, an engineer, increased the production capacities. I come from a different background, with a business-oriented education, and work experience outside of the family business (investment banking and luxury goods marketing). Every generation brings their touch, with their own history and own experience.” Rum is made world-wide, but the Caribbean is probably the best-known area for production. It is believed that the first distillation of rum dates back to the 17th century on sugar cane plantations in the Caribbean, most specifically Barbados. The plantation workers discovered that molasses fermented into alcohol. Haiti is located in the Caribbean and is the western part of Hispaniola, bordering the Dominican Republic.  Rum is a distilled liquor made from sugar cane by-products such as sugar cane juice, sugar cane syrup, or molasses. Typically after the sugar cane is cut, it is taken to the mill and fed into a crusher. This process extracts the sugar cane juice from the fibrous pulp. At this point, the sugar cane juice can be fermented and distilled or cooked down into a syrup for fermentation and distillation. The last option is to process the sugar cane juice into molasses. Fermentation, distillation, and barrel-aging vary from one distillery to another. However, most rums are aged and blended with other batches from the distillery or blended with rums of different ages. Rum is available in many styles and flavors, from sipping rums to cocktail mixers to sweet, spicy, and herbal.  Rum barrels at Rhum Barbancourt In 1862, Dupré Barbancourt used sugar cane juice and applied the traditional French distillation method of double distillation, usually reserved for the very finest cognacs. He aged the rum in oak barrels from Limousin, France, as practiced in cognac production in his native Charente. Dupré passed away in 1907, leaving no heirs. His wife, Nathalie Gardère, and her nephew Paul managed the company until her passing, and then Paul took over. During this time, the distillery was located in Port au Prince. Only a limited quantity of rum was produced and sold, with the older aged rum reserved solely for family and friends. In 1946, Paul’s son, Jean Gardère, took over the business, initiating its modernization. And by 1949, Rhum Barbancourt relocated the distillery to the “heart of the sugar cane fields” of Domaine Barbancourt.  Aerial view of Domaine Barbancourt surrounded by sugar cane fields. By 1952, the company had transformed from a small cottage industry to an international exporter. Jean passed away in 1990, and fourth-generation Thierry Gardère took the helm. He upheld the commitment to quality, fine natural ingredients, and the unique cognac-based production process. Thierry passed away in 2017, passing the baton to his daughter, Delphine. Delphine talked about growing up with the backdrop of the distillery and her “ah-hah” moment of wanting to be a part of it. Delphine: “Growing up in Haiti was very particular. I was born in the 1980s, and by the 1990s, Haiti was under embargo. So my mother and I moved to Jamaica, where I learned English over the summer so I could attend school. My father at the time remained in Haiti. I remember as a child it being a very intense time. My father was the only one of his brothers and sisters to choose to move back to Haiti and work for Barbancourt. He was the one “holding the fort” in times of uncertainty, and he always had a strong sense of duty towards the employees, which they still admire. Several periods shaped our family history (end of the dictatorship, the departure of Aristide in 2004, Haiti earthquake). I have a lot of admiration for the courage, determination, and resilience he had, not only as my father but also as a CEO. This is what always keeps me going in difficult times. The family business was never something that was forced upon me and I slowly became involved in it. I first realized how “cool” it was when I went to high school in Paris. We had a presentation on career day from L’Oréal, where I discovered business strategy, marketing, packaging, etc. On this day, it really clicked for me that I wanted to go to business school. This was when things started.” I asked Delphine to tell me about Barbancourt’s production process. Delphine: “Today, Barbancourt employs 500 people and works with 3000 farmers in a co-op manner. Only 20% of our sugar cane comes from our lands; 80% is sourced from local farmers. It is at the core of our value chain. Our brand’s DNA is rooted in aged rums, and our Haitian Heritage makes our products unique in terms of positioning. Our products are made from sugar cane juice, but we are not an AOC Agricole Rum, as we are not French. (Rhum Agricole is the French term for sugar cane juice rum) We do not use molasses, so we are not English or Hispanic in terms of Rum. This trickles through our production process, which is unique and gives a rum that can be viewed as light, smooth, and with no added sugar or caramel.” I received two samples of Rhum Barbancourt for review, and I tasted both rums neat.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Rhum Barbancourt Reserve Speciale, 5 Star Aged 8 Years
This is a noteworthy “sipping” rum that would most certainly add character to a light rum cocktail. Double distilled and aged for eight years in French oak. It is slightly dry and smooth. The nose offers caramel, vanilla, candied orange, spice, and a touch of ethanol. A surprising palate is reminiscent of brandy with notes of smokey toast, toffee, vanilla, and dried fruit that linger on a long finish. Alcohol: 43% 86 Proof SRP: $25-$30 Rhum Barbancourt Estate Reserve, Aged 15 Years This is a rich and elegant sipping rum. Butterscotch, toast, baking spice, and orange peel aromas set the stage for this complex and creamy rum. The palate offers caramelized sugar, charred oak, candied fruit, orange peel, and a long finish of spice notes, and a touch of dark chocolate. It had my palate begging for another sip Alcohol: 43% 86 Proof SRP: $50-$55 Before we said our virtual good-byes, I had a few more questions for Delphine. Delphine, please tell me about your interest in Women’s Empowerment. Delphine: “I live in Haiti and have two young daughters. I would feel like a fraud saying that the road leading up to this was easy. Inside and outside of my role at Barbancourt, I would like to use my voice to help other women. I recently went to dinner with men where I spent three hours being mansplained and manterrupted. It shows that there’s still a lot to be done in the area of Women’s Empowerment. This is my most recent example of things that need to change. On a larger scale, campaigns like “Me Too” that happened in the US are things that don’t exist here. Victims of abuse are often left confused, misunderstood, with no voice, and no one to talk to, in a country that doesn’t have the infrastructure for this.” As CEO and fifth generation of the company, what is your vision for the future? Delphine: I’m very humbled by the history and legacy of our family business. My role as the CEO of a family business is to grow and maintain the company for future generations. On a more personal level, my goal is to expand the fame of Rhum Barbancourt, increasing brand recognition through International development and the launch of new products. My professional background is deeply rooted in luxury consumer goods and brand strategic management, so I am looking forward to seeing Barbancourt grow and be the International Ambassador Haiti deserves.” And, I am looking forward to following Delphine’s journey and enjoying more products from Rhum Barbancourt. Until next time... Cheers! Penny To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com This story was originally published on Santé Magazine. There are many interpretations and symbolisms throughout the world concerning the dragonfly. In some cultures, it represents transformation and exemplifies the light and joy we should be embracing. In other cultures, the dragonfly signifies good luck and is perceived as being magical. In some parts of the world, it is believed that if you encounter a dragonfly, positive transformation is on the way, and you are about to emerge forever changed and much wiser. The dragonfly has a short life of approximately six months, and in some cultures, it represents that one must live life to its fullest. For me, dragonflies are magical and have played an important role in my life for many years. In fact, I have one tattooed on my ankle! But that is another story.  Photo credit: Dorothea Oldani So, what does all of this have to do with wine? It begins with a talented winemaker and entrepreneur, a beautiful bottle and label, and of course, the wine!  Photo courtesy of Blu Giovello Piera Martellozzo is an established winemaker and entrepreneur with three generations and over a century of history behind her. In 1899 Piera’s grandfather, Giovanni, founded Winery Piera Martellozzo in Padua province, located in northern Italy’s Veneto wine region. Piera’s father, Mario, is credited for developing the winery. In 1992, Mario passed the baton and entrusted Piera with managing the family’s small wine estate.  Piera Martellozzo Twenty-nine years later, under the guidance and tenacity of Piera, the winery has grown and expanded to include premium vineyards in Friuli Venezia Giulia, Veneto, and Trentino. With a focus on indigenous grapes, high-quality vineyards, and sustainability, including an organic wine range introduced in 1998, Piera has stood behind her mission to produce quality wines. She focuses on blending traditional production methods with acknowledgment of contemporary times and the future. Piera’s emphasis was initially on the production of Prosecco, but she eventually expanded her repertoire to include a more diverse “wine” menu. Her expansion included Friuli Venezia Giulia, a wine region known for its white wine production. In San Quirino in Pordenone province, she purchased a comprehensive winery, which is now home base.  Winery and Vineyards Through a virtual conversation, I asked Piera to share her story behind the inception of the Blu Giovello brand and the dragonfly’s symbolism. Piera: “Blu Giovello brand came to life 25 years ago from a four-hands project between our winery and our US importer, with whom we are still working! His expertise in the US market and our contribution of wine and ideas allowed us to develop a very successful brand. What we wanted to convey is a symbol of Italian style, made in Italy. Speaking of the single details, the origin of the name Giovello comes from the combination of the Italian words Giovane (young) and Bello (beautiful). The flying dragonfly is a symbol of harmony and prosperity. I wanted to put all the lightness, joy, and elegance of the dragonfly as an invitation to celebrate life and freedom from conventions. Blu refers to the wine’s origins. The blue color of the bottle refers to one of Italy’s typical colors, reminding us of the intense color of the sky and the waves of the Mediterranean Sea.” The brand’s wines have increased by 35% over the last five years and 90,000 cases sold worldwide. In addition to the Pinot Grigio DOC and Prosecco DOC Frizzante that I received, the Blue Giovello line also includes Prosecco DOC Extra Dry Spumante, Prosecco Rosé Sparkling, a still Rosé, and a still and sparkling Moscato. Reviews  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Blu Giovello Pinot Grigio DOC Delle Venezie
The grapes for this wine are 100% Pinot Grigio and are sourced from vineyards at 656 ft. above sea level. Delle Venezie is widely known for its production of light and crisp Pinot Grigio. Fluctuation in temperature between day and night adds to the development of aromatics in the skin. And the breezy and cool climate coming from the Alps help to maintain fresh acidity in the wines. Aromas: Citrus, pear, and a hint of floral Palate: Tart apples, melon, and a touch of white stone fruit. It is refreshing, crisp, and light. Serve with soft cheese, grilled chicken, or seafood. Alcohol: 12% SRP: $9.99 Piera said, “It is simply a must-have!” Blu Giovello Prosecco DOC Frizzante This wine is made with 100% Glera grapes sourced from the hills between the Dolomites and Venice in the Prosecco DOC area of production. The vineyards are at 1312 ft. above sea level. Situated between the Adriatic Sea and the Dolomites, the vineyards enjoy a unique microclimate that contributes to this wine’s characteristic flavors. The Charmat method is used for production, with the second fermentation taking place in stainless steel tanks for about one month. Aromas: Floral and fruit with apples and citrus Palate: Fine bubbles, peach, lemon zest, apple, and toast with a hint of minerality and crisp acidity. Serve as an aperitif or with light fare. Alcohol: 11% SRP: $11.99 Piera said, “It is the flagship of Italian sparkling wine!” Before Piera and I said our virtual good-byes, I asked her how climate change and Covid have impacted her and the challenges she might be facing in the vineyards and winery. Piera on climate change: Climate change is affecting all of us. We were among the first wineries to embrace a sustainable approach. We have been investing for more than twenty years in sustainable viticulture, believing in its huge potential: avoiding chemicals as much as possible, respecting the land and the vine. We were among the first in Italy to invest in a green productive process; we have always embraced technology that will enable us to preserve each wine’s typical features, such as using microfiltration. Furthermore, over the years, we have installed a photovoltaic system that allows us to produce almost all the energy we need in the production processes. We have created a water treatment plant that allows us to depurate the wastewater coming from the production process so that it can be used again, and we have chosen to use lighter bottles. Our sustainable approach also involves packaging. When possible, we use recycled materials.” Piera on Covid: “Working with both the on- and off-trade channels, we were able to close 2020 at the same level as 2019. We have seen an increase in sales on the off-trade channel and monopolies (Canada and Sweden) and an inevitable decrease in the on-trade sales. We embraced all the challenges requested in order to offer the best safeguard conditions for all our team. We provided masks and made sure there was enough space for everybody to carry out their work in a totally safe environment, and we adopted home working for all those who could work from home. The winery is the people, they are the beating heart of it, and we have to preserve it.” Piera also spoke about the future. “A lot has been done already, but we still have much to do to keep up with the best green standards. The winery aims to keep prioritizing this aspect through investments, granting both wine quality and the sustainability of production processes that respect the environment and the people involved. We give thanks to what the land offers, and we owe her the greatest respect.” With spring around the corner, these are delightful and light wines to enjoy while sitting outside and watching the dance of the dragonflies! Until next time... Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com This story was originally published on Santé Magazine. In its simplest terms, fortified wine is a wine in which a distilled spirit is added. It can be enjoyed neat, as an aperitif, digestif, or added to cocktails.  Photo courtesy of Pineau Acadamy A wide range of fortified wines is produced around the world. Some of the more well-known are Port, Sherry, Marsala, Madeira, and Moscatel de Setúbal. Vermouth is also a fortified wine that falls into the sub-category of aromatized wines. Aromatized wines are flavored with spices, herbs, or natural flavorings. Fortified wines are available in many styles ranging from dry to sweet. And each style tends to have specific rules and regulations set by the country, region, or appellation it comes from. Specifications might include types of base wine allowed, aging minimums and styles, and what spirits are permissible. I recently received two bottles of Pineau des Charente that drink beautifully on their own or as an added dimension to creative cocktails.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Pineau des Charente is exclusively produced in the Charente, Charente-Maritime, and Dordogne départments of France’s Cognac region. According to Comité National du Pineau des Charentes, Pineau is made with fresh grape juice must from the current year’s vintage and Cognac eau-de-vie – Cognac distilled for at least one year. Eau-de-vie translates to “water of life” in French. This blend is then aged in French oak barrels. If the wine is aged for five years, then the Pineau earns the designation of vieux (old), and if aged for ten years, it will receive the title of tres vieux (very old). Pineau is produced in white, rosé, and red styles, with an alcohol content that ranges from 16-22%. White Pineau is usually made from the traditional Cognac grapes, Ugni Blanc, Colombard, and Folle Blanche. It is aged for at least 18 months, including 12 months in French oak barrels. Red and Rosé Pineau are made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot, and aged for 12 months, eight months in French oak barrels. Vallein Tercinier Pineau des Charentes This family has been producing Cognac for five generations, dating back to 1850. Recipes have been handed down from one generation to the next with “the focus on creating the most pleasurable experience in the glass.”  Photo credit: Penny Weiss The grape juice must for this wine is 75% Ugni Blanc and 25% Montils, and the blend is aged for three years in French oak barrels. A lovely golden color opens to aromas of citrus, sweet fruit, and dried raisins. This smooth wine fills the palate with soft fruit, citrus, honeysuckle, and a long finish of almonds and candied lemon. Alcohol: 17.5% SRP: $28 Château De Beaulon White Pineau des Charentes Château De Beaulon is a family-owned estate dating back to 1712. As it states on the back of the bottle, “Château De Beaulon Pineau is produced today as it has been for generations. Faithful to the oldest family traditions passed on through the centuries.”  Photo credit: Penny Weiss The grape juice must is made from Semillion and Sauvignon Blanc. This fortified wine is gently matured in French oak barrels for five years, giving it the classification vieux (old). The color is soft amber with heady aromas of floral notes, apricot, and mandarin. It is fresh and smooth, with vanilla notes, dried fruit, honey, and nuts on the palate. Alcohol: 18% SRP: $20 I love drinking Pineau neat, but I am looking forward to making Pineau des Charentes’ Signature cocktail recipes created by some very talented bartenders. You can find the recipes at https://pineauacademy.com
These fortified wines are intense, elegant, and made with love. They are gently sweet, allowing the palate to enjoy all of its nuances, including acidity and subtle oxidation. They are complex but so easy to drink! Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com Blame it on the snow and frigid temperatures, but I’ve been popping the cork on many delicious red wine wines of late. As you may know from past posts, I enjoy white, rosé, and sparkling wine all year round. However, this winter, I’ve been indulging my palate with some very expressive red wines.  Photo credit: Max Tutak Unsplash Here are eight reviews of red wines that will surely have your palate singing! Australia McGuigan Wines, ‘The Plan’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 McGuigan Wines is a major wine producer in Australia. Their family roots date back to 1880 in Hunter Valley with Perc McGuigan, who set the standard for future generations. Grapes for this 100% Cabernet are sourced from top-quality vineyards in South Eastern Australia, including McLaren Vale, Langhorne Creek, and Barossa Valley. The fruit is harvested at night, and after fermentation, it is matured in stainless steel tanks and oak before final blending.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Aromas of blackberry, cherry, chocolate, and hints of baking spice segue onto the palate with a hint of cranberry and herbs. This fruit-driven wine has refreshing acidity and firm tannins with hints of warm toasted oak. It is a steal at this price! Serve with roasts, grilled tuna, and dark chocolate desserts. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $10.99 Italy Bertani Valpolicella DOC 2018 Bertani has been producing wine for over 150 years and has an impressive 200 hectares of vineyards in the most ideal areas of Verona province in the Veneto region, which is famous worldwide for wines such as Valpolicella, Soave, and Amarone. This wine is a blend of 80% Corvina Veronese and 20% Rondinella. Grapes are harvested from the heart of the Valpolicella Classico area and the Valpantena vineyards near the municipality of Grezzana. The wine is aged for eight months in concrete vats covered with glass bricks to allow slow and gradual aging. It is then further aged for a minimum of three months in the bottle.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Aromas of plum, sour cherry, red berries, pepper, and baking spice continue onto the palate. This wine has nice acidity and a good balance between juicy fruity and savory. Sour cherry and raspberry linger on the finish. Pair with hearty stews, braised meat, pasta, and semi-aged cheese. Alcohol: 12% SRP: $16.49 Spain Bela, Ribera del Duero DO 2017 One of Rioja’s most iconic wine producers, CVNE (pronounced coo-nay), is an acronym for Compania Vinicola del Norte des Espana. CVNE has expanded its territory to include a 182-acre estate in Ribera del Duero in northern Spain with the focus of bringing their Rioja elegance to the rugged Ribera del Duero region. Grapes for this 100% Tempranillo are sourced from Ribera del Duero region. The climate here leans toward continental with a complexity of soils throughout the region. This wine is aged for six months in American and French, new and one-year-old oak barrels.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Intense aromas of dark fruit, floral, baking spice, and a touch of earth set the stage for this terroir-driven wine. The palate is layered with dark berries, dark cherry, plum, spice, anise, and a hint of minerality. Vanilla and pepper linger on a long finish. This is a graceful wine with soft tannins and brimming with character. It is an easy wine to pair with a wide range of cuisine. Alcohol: 14% SRP: $19 Portugal Esporão Reserva Red 2016 Alentejo wine region is situated in the southern half of Portugal and covers one-third of the country. It is one of Portugal’s largest wine production areas. Herdade Do Esporão, whose history dates back over 750 years ago, first introduced this wine in 1985. It is a blend of Aragonez, Trincadeira, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Alicante Bouschet. Grapes are sourced from vineyards with soil of granite/schist origin and clay/loam structure. This wine is aged for 12 months in American oak (60%) and French oak (40%) barrels, and then an additional six months in the bottle.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss It begins with a rich bouquet of cherry, raspberry, blackberry, plum, and baking spice. The palate is entertained with lush dark fruit jam, spice, and a hint of plum. Smooth tannins and a long berry finish add to the richness of this wine. Pair with grilled or braised meat and game, stews, tapas, and codfish. Alcohol: 14.5% SRP: $24 Sicily Donnafugata Sherazade Sicilia DOC 2018 The Rallo family owns the iconic Donnafugata, and their family history of winemaking dates back to 1851. They have several wineries and over 405 hectares of vineyards located throughout Sicily, including historic aging cellars at their Marsala winery. Nero d’Avola is an indigenous grape that is considered Sicily’s most important red wine grape. Sherazade is 100% Nero d’Avola and the grapes are sourced from Donnafugata’s Contessa Entellina Estate and nearby vineyards, which are located in the southwestern part of Sicily. The wine is aged for about four months in tanks and then a minimum of three months in the bottle.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Delectable aromas of violets, red fruit, and spice open to a lovely palate of cherry, plum, berries, and spice. Well-balanced tannins and acid add to the character of this fresh and lively wine, along with a touch of pepper and tartness on a long finish. Serve with mature cheese, pasta and red sauce, seared tuna, and calamari. Alcohol: 13% SRP: $25 California Au Contraire Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast 2019 Sonoma County’s Au Contraire winery was inspired by Taub Family vineyards company founder, David S. Taub. The grapes for this Pinot Noir are sourced from top Sonoma Coast vineyards, from Sebastopol to the Fort Ross Seaview AVA. Although these are warmer vineyard sites, they sit above the fog line generating a cool-climate style Pinot Noir with highly concentrated fruit flavors. The wine is aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, 35% new.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Juicy aromas of cherry, red berries, plum, and a hint of floral segue onto the palate with strawberry and cherry leading the parade of flavors. This is a silky wine with lots of ripe fruit and bright acidity. Serve with roasted meat, fowl, spicy Asian cuisine, and soft cheese. Alcohol: 14.2% SRP: $26.99 Argentina Bodegas Salentein Numina Gran Corte 2016 Bodegas Salentein is located in the Uco Valley of Mendoza, Argentina. Many of their vineyards are situated at some of the highest elevations in the world. This privately-owned estate was established in the late 1990s and boasts almost 5000 acres, of which 1,124 acres are planted to vine. The Numina Gran Corte is a blend of 61% Malbec, 21% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, 7% Petit Verdot, and 3% Cabernet Franc. Grapes are hand-harvested from small selected plots. Fermentation takes place in 7000-liter oak casks and then aged for 16 months in French oak barrels.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss This wine opens with subtle violet aromas, plum, dark berries, spice, and a trace of vanilla. The palate offers a fresh and elegant layering of blackberry, raspberry, plum, baking spice, and a touch of earth. This is a beautifully integrated blend with a silky mouthfeel and a long finish. Pair with grilled meat, seared tuna, hearty stews, and casseroles. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $40.99 France Jean-Luc Colombo Cornas “Terres Brûlées” 2018 Jean-Luc Colombo winery is located in the northern appellation of Cornas in the Rhône Valley, France. Cornas is the smallest appellation in the Rhône Valley, consisting of approximately 325 acres, and is dedicated to producing only red wine from the Syrah grape. The Mediterranean climate and decomposed granite soils contribute to the richness and character of these wines. Terres Brûlées means “burnt earth”, which refers to the long hot days here that are balanced by the cool nights. Grapes are hand-harvested from 30+ -year-old vines. The wine is aged for 21 months in oak barrels (10% new, 90% one-to-five-year old barrels).  Photo credit: Penny Weiss This 100% Syrah wine has enticing aromas of dark cherry, dark berries, dark plum, spice, and hints of baking spice. The palate is rich with blackberry, plum, and black cherry, reminiscent of exotic jam. Notes of vanilla, cocoa, spice, and a trace of minerality linger on a long finish. A truly noteworthy wine! Pair with white meat, game, seared tuna, and hearty stews.
Alcohol: 14.5% SRP: $63.99 No matter what time of year,, these wines will pair beautifully with any season! Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com It seems that every weather forecast of late is either snow, freezing rain, ice, or frozen tundra temperatures. So one can imagine my delight when I received a one-way ticket to a magical island where the sun always shines, and tropical breezes soothe the soul.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss My virtual airline ticket also included some delightful island cocktails in a can for easy transport to the beach. Biza calls it “a vacation in a can.”  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Biza is a brand developed by a group of friends aimed at catering to the millennial generation. (Those who fall in the range of 23 to 38 in 2019). However, Biza has also captured the attention of those beyond this group. These ready-to-drink vodka-based cocktails in a can are NOT “flavored malt beverages.” Biza cocktails are made with premium vodka produced from winter wheat and corn from southern Idaho. The drinks are naturally sugar and yeast-free. A touch of carbonation is added to give a little oomph to the cocktail. These sparkling cocktails are available in four flavors: Passion Fruit Peach, Coconut Pineapple, Pomegranate Vanilla, and Mango Jalapeño. My vacation package included all except for the Passion Fruit Peach.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Coconut Pineapple As listed on the can, the ingredients are Premium Vodka, Sparkling Water, Natural Flavors & colored with Beta Carotene. Aromas of coconut and pineapple segue onto the palate with the slightest effervescence and minimum sweetness. This is absolutely delicious! Where’s my beach chair? Alcohol: 6% SRP: $12.00/4-pack  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Mango Jalapeño As listed on the can, the ingredients are Premium Vodka, Sparkling Water, Natural Flavors & colored with Beta Carotene. Aromas of mango and other tropical notes tease the nose and set the stage for a surprise explosion of spice in the mouth. Yes, the jalapeño makes its presence known and blends well with the fruit. Minimum sweetness and light effervescence add to this light and refreshing cocktail. Alcohol: 6% SRP: $12.00/4-pack  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Pomegranate Vanilla As listed on the can, the ingredients are Premium Vodka, Sparkling Water, Natural Flavors and colored with Fruit and Vegetable juice. Strawberry and a hint of cherry are present on the nose. Vanilla and pomegranate come through on the palate with a little more sweetness than I prefer in a cocktail. However, it is light and a perfect quaff for the day at the beach. Alcohol: 6% SRP: $12.00/4-pack  Photo credit: Penny Weiss For added entertainment, just scan the QR code on the back of the cans. It will redirect you to the Biza Spotify page for a delightful playlist that will surely have you moving! Relax, sip, listen, and enjoy this virtual vacation!
Until next time, Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com |
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