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While searching for a bottle of wine to open this past weekend, I came across a few empty wine bottles that I have been transporting from one living space to another for the past few decades. Due to my last move and lack of space, many of my empty bottles were tossed out in favor of the full ones. Although, I do regret recycling my Louis Roederer Cristal Champagne 1993, 1978 and 1981 vintage bottles.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss So, what did I hold onto? It was a difficult decision but I selected three bottles that were the most meaningful to me.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss As you might recall from past stories, “The Restaurateur”, my late husband, first introduced these amazing wines to my palate when we began dating in 1979. I was quite naïve when it came to drinking wine, but Robert quickly educated my palate and there was no turning back. My introduction to what I call “real wine” began with a bottle of 1969 Château Petrus. I remember the first sip like it was yesterday and it was awe-inspiring, to say the least. Fortunately, for me, we had several cases of it and throughout the years I’ve opened a bottle or two with special friends and enjoyed this wine’s rich and powerful flavors. Sad to say, I have only one bottle left and I’m sure that I will be drinking it before the end of this year. Château Haut-Brion 1961 and 1969 vintages were not uncommon for Robert and me to drink with dinner and I held onto the last bottle of Château Haut-Brion 1961 until four years ago. In fact, after opening it I wrote a review. “The cork was soft but came out easily. The wine was then poured into a decanter with surprisingly very little sediment. The color was deep garnet with fruity aromas that were indiscernible. A quick sip after decanting assured us that the wine was very drinkable. After thirty to forty minutes, the wine began to open. It was full-bodied, had substance and was as smooth as silk. Over time, the palate offered a complex array of dark, sweet fruit with a smoky edge. The fruit continued to the very last sip. This was without a doubt a heavenly experience. The Haut-Brion has stood the test of time and one should expect no less from a Premier Cru Classé First Growth!”  Photo credit: Penny Weiss And last, but far from least is the bottle of Château d’Yquem 1961. This Superior First Growth was the first Sauternes that I ever tasted. It truly is the most exquisite sweet wine my palate has known. It became part of our New Year’s Eve tradition. Robert and I would start the evening with Cristal Champagne and end it with a bottle of d’Yquem for our midnight toast. I no longer have any Château d’Yquem and it is a very rare occasion that I get to drink it, but it is a wine that my palate will never forget.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Although these wine bottles may appear to be empty, they are not. They are filled with powerful memories that are just as beautiful and gratifying as the wine they once held.
What wine bottles are you holding onto? Share your stories with me. Until next time, Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com Since my views have never changed concerning Valentine’s Day, I decided to repost part of a story that I wrote a few years ago with the addition of some wines and treats to celebrate “hearts” day!  “With Valentine’s Day almost upon us, flower and candy shops, jewelry stores and the wine and spirits industry are bedazzling us with an array of red and pink treats. Ah yes, Valentine’s Day is the one day of the year that we make a point of celebrating romance, love and friendship by expressing our affection with cards, gifts and special dinners. Personally speaking, I think we should be celebrating each other and ourselves every day! By now, you know that I’m a big proponent of “just because” when it comes to opening a bottle of wine. And that philosophy extends to buying flowers, jewelry and candy! For me, it’s the unexpected gesture of love and friendship that is the most meaningful, not because a holiday dictates it. And yes, I admit that I have on rare occasions gone overboard in celebrating Valentine’s Day. At heart, I am a hopeless romantic Whether it’s Valentine’s Day or a “just because” day, pick up some fun treats and open up a bottle of rosé, sparkling or still wine that you’ve never tried before.”  Photo credit: Penny Weiss To start your Valentine festivities this is the “perfect pairing” of wine and cheese.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Having just returned from Piedmont, Lombardy and Veneto where I indulged in sparkling wine and out of this world cheese, I was excited to receive a sampling of Garda DOC Spumante wine and Piave DOP cheese upon my return home. Pairing these two makes so much sense when you think about how Piave DOP is surrounded by sparkling wine production. Garda DOC is made up of ten historic appellations located along the western shore of Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy. As you can see from the map below, Garda DOC is partially in Lombardy and then continues on to a small area in Veneto.  These sparkling wines are produced in both the Metodo Classico and Charmat method and range in style from Brut Nature to Demi-Sec. The Consorzio Garda DOC was founded in 1996 to protect the value of the wines and to ensure that all rules of production are followed. Cantina Di Custoza Spumante Extra Dry, Garda DOC 2018 This wine opens with delightful floral and fruit aromas that lead to a palate of fine bubbles with notes of pear, peach, honeysuckle and minerality. It is light and refreshing! The gentle fruit and floral flavors of the wine combined with the nutty flavors of the cheese are divine. Alcohol: 11.5%  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Piave DOP is a hard, cooked curd cheese that is only produced from indigenous Italian cattle breeds in the Dolomites area of the Belluno province in Italy’s Veneto region. The Consorzio Di Tutela Del Formaggio Piave was created in 2010 to protect from misuse or counterfeiting, in addition to making sure that all traditional production techniques are used. There are five different age classifications with aging being anywhere from 20 days to over 18 months. Piave Fresco D.O.P. (20/60 days), Piave Mezzano D.O.P. (61/180 days) Piave Vecchio D.O.P. (>180 days), Piave Vecchio Selezione Oro D.O.P. (>12 months) Piave Vecchio Riserva D.O.P. (more than 18 months). My cheese samples included: Piave Medium (60/180 days) This cheese has a straw-yellow color with a mild nutty flavor that imparts a nice creamy texture on the palate.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Piave Vecchio Selezione (12 months) The color of this cheese is dark yellow showing its age. This is a rich and smooth cheese with a pronounced walnut flavor and a hint of sweetness.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Piave DOP cheese is delightful on its own or with sparkling wine. It also makes a great addition to recipes. Here are a few more wines that I recently wrote about that will add a smile if not sparkle to your celebration. Domaine Bousquet Brut NV Chardonnay /Pinot Noir A delightful sparkling wine made with organic grapes sourced from the vineyards of Tupungato, Argentina. Beautiful aromas of citrus, apple and tropical notes segue onto the palate with hints of brioche and pear. Fine bubbles and a creamy mouthfeel add to a fresh and crisp treat. Alcohol: 12.5% SRP: $13  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Charles Heidsieck Brut Réserve NV A golden color and fine bubbles lead to a complex and elegant nose of brioche, pear, white flowers and a hint of apricot and citrus. The palate is rich with white fruit, toast and tart baked apples, with hints of cherry, citrus, toasted nuts and vanilla. It has good acidity and a creamy texture with a long, lush finish. Alcohol: 12% SRP: $69  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Pasqua Vigneti é Cantine PassioneSentimento Prosecco Treviso Spumante Brut, DOC This Prosecco is quite aromatic with fresh fruit, pear and brioche. The palate offers pear, apple, a hint of slate and lemon zest on the finish. This is a fresh and balanced wine with tiny bubbles and lovely perlage. Alcohol: 11% SRP: $16  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Bibi Graetz Bollamatta Spumante IGT NV This wine is soft pink in color with an abundance of fruit and floral on the nose. The palate offers strawberry, cherry, stone fruit, bread and citrus. Fine bubbles and crisp acidity make this a “crazily” refreshing wine! Alcohol: 12.5% SRP: $26  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Banfi Rosa Regale Brachetto D’Acqui DOCG 2019 is made with 100% Brachetto and is produced using the Charmat method. This is a well-balanced sparkling wine with just the right amount of sweetness and acidity. Aromas of roses and red berries spill onto the palate with a refreshing and soft sparkle. Alcohol: 7% SRP: $12 to $15  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Domaine de Bila-Haut “Les Vignes” Pays d’Orc Rosé 2018 This coral-colored wine has subtle but inviting aromas of floral, citrus, red fruit and minerality. The palate offers a soft array of berries, rose, herbs, minerality and a hint of watermelon. This is a dry and refreshingly crisp wine with just a trace of citrus on the finish. Alcohol: 12.5% SRP: $15  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Cuvée de la Commanderie Rosé 2018 A.O.P. Côtes de Provence This wine has a soft peach color with aromas of red berries, salinity and floral. The palate offers strawberry, raspberry, light citrus, salinity and crisp acidity. This is a dry and complex wine that displays elegance and freshness with savory taking the lead over fruit. Alcohol: 12.5% SRP: $20  Photo credit: Penny Weiss As I like to say every year, “whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day with loved ones, friends, family or just want to celebrate “you”, go ahead and indulge! Eat champagne truffles and pop open a bottle of wine!”
Until next time… Cheers! XOXO Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com When someone mentions Italian sparkling wines, our thoughts might turn to Prosecco, Lambrusco and Asti Spumante. Well, I have another sparkling wine that should definitely be on your radar. Follow me to Franciacorta where premium and complex sparkling wines are produced.  Photo credit: Franciacorta.net After attending several Franciacorta wine festivals and a masterclass in New York City over the last year or so, I was more than thrilled to visit Franciacorta last month, albeit it was only for a few hours. However, it was quality time spent learning, tasting and dining with the charismatic Ricci Curbastro at Ricci Curbastro Farm Estate.  Ricci Curbastro Photo credit: Penny Weiss Franciacorta is a small wine-producing area located in the captivating Brescia province in the heart of the Lombardy region of northern Italy. It is a picturesque wine region surrounded by the foothills of the Alps to the east, the Oglio River to the west, the shores of Lake Iseo to the north and Po Valley to the south. It is an ideal setting for sparkling wine production.  Due to the morainic origin of this area (rocks and sediments that were carried down by the retreating glaciers), the well-draining alluvial soil is rich in minerals. Franciacorta wine producer, Ricci Curbastro said, “We have 60 different soil types here that can change every few meters”. The climate in Franciacorta is considered warm continental, which is influenced by the Alps. The area also benefits from its close proximity to Lake Iseo, which helps to moderate temperatures and plays an important role in both summer and winter seasons. A beautiful dance takes place between the cool air that descends from the Alps and is then captured by Lake Iseo allowing just the right amount of warmth to spread over the vineyards for the grapes to ripen and reach proper sugar levels. The dance continues at night when the cool air from the higher elevations of the Alps swoops down to bring fresh air and cool the vineyards from the heat of the day. The diurnal temperatures contribute to optimal grape ripening and preserving acidity in the grapes. Although still wine and sparkling wine have been made in this area for centuries, it is Franco Ziliani, a young winemaker working for Guido Berlucchi who is credited for his approach to making the highest quality metodo classico wine with his first vintage in 1961 bearing the name ‘Franciacorta’ on the label. This set in motion the drive for other winemakers to also make the best sparkling wine with the aim for “high quality, not quantity”. In 1967, DOC (Denomination of Controlled Origin) was formed with 11 producers including Ricci’s father, Gualberto. In 1990, Franciacorta was given official status and the Consortium Franciacorta was founded. As stated by the Consorzio Franciacorta, ”The name on the label – Franciacorta- is a single word that defines the land, the production method and the wine”. In 1995, Franciacorta obtained DOCG status, the highest standard of quality for Italian wine. Today, the Consorzio represents 97% of the producers in Franciacorta. The Franciacorta DOCG sparkling wines are produced exclusively using the traditional “Metodo Classico” method where the second fermentation takes place in the bottle. Only Chardonnay, Pinot Nero (Pinot Noir) and Pinot Blanc are allowed in the blend. The regulations are very strict. The harvest must be done by hand and the requirements for aging on the lees are as follows: Franciacorta Non-Vintage is 18 months Franciacorta Satèn and Rosé Non-Vintage is 24 months Franciacorta Vintage is 30 months Franciacorta Riserva is 60 months Ricci Curbastro Farm Estate  Photo is courtesy of Ricci Curbastro Farm Estate Dr. Riccardo Ricci Curbastro represents the 17th generation in a family of agricultural traditions since the 13th century. He is an agronomist and winemaker who also has a passion for ornithology and wildlife photography. Ricci was President of the Consorzio Vini Franciacorta in 1992, and again in 1995 when it achieved DOCG status. The estate is located in Capriolo (Brescia) with over 32 hectares of which 27.5 hectares are under vine and planted according to the strict guidelines of the Consorzio. The estate has been certified organic since 2018 and has been practicing Low Impact Farming since 1992. Also, the winery is Carbon Footprint certified since 2012. Ricci said, “The quality of the land is important to pass on. It is part of the family heritage”.  Photo is courtesy of Ricci Curbastro Farm Estate The underground wine cellar is where vinification and aging of Franciacorta DOCG take place. With regard to aging the wines, Ricci said, “I consider time as an ingredient. I never sell wine before aging of three years minimum.” In his wish to reduce sulfites, he began experimenting with yeast extracts in 2000. And today he produces his own yeast extracts. Ricci said, “I discovered it creates a longer shelf life for the wines.” Our wine tasting consisted of seven wines including Franciacorta Brut Satèn Brut, Rosé Brut, Demi Sec and Dosagio Zero Gualberto (a wine dedicated to his father.)  Photo credit: Penny Weiss  Photo credit: Penny Weiss The classic characteristics of Franciacorta DOCG are imbued with freshness, good acidity, fine and persistent bubbles, notes of brioche and yeast, soft notes of lemony citrus, minerality and a long finish.
Franciacorta Satèn is a “white grapes only” version with lower pressure in the bottle and longer aging. The wines tend to be silkier, with floral and soft notes of pear, honey, lemon and melon. Franciacorta Rosé Brut is a fresh and lively wine with floral and light berries. All the wines that I tasted were complex, elegant and terroir-driven with each bearing their own unique expression. They have longevity and finesse. And not to be forgotten, these are excellent wines to pair with a variety of cuisine. In fact, I can’t think of any food that Franciacorta wines don’t pair with! So, if you can find one of these gems in a wine shop or on a wine menu, go for it! These sparkling wines are worth it! Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com  Monte Del Frà vineyards. Photo credit: Penny Weiss At the mention of Verona, Italy, I can’t help but think of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. It tends to conjure up romantic images of Juliet standing on a balcony professing her love for Romeo.  The enchanting province of Verona is located at the foot of the Lessini Mountains and is partially encircled by the Adige River in northern Italy’s Veneto region. It is about 65 miles to the west of Venice and a short distance from Lake Garda to the north.  There is much to see and do in Verona, from visiting medieval castles and Roman ruins to the famous Piazza delle Erbe where one can sip an aperitivo in one of the many outdoor cafes. But beyond these attractions lie the great wine vineyards that surround Verona including the Custoza DOC wine region also known as Bianco di Custoza.  Although one might tend to associate Verona with such wines as Amarone, Bardolino, Valpolicella and Soave, the wines of Custoza should not be overlooked and are worth exploring. Custoza DOC is known for its white wine production and while on a press trip to this region last month I visited several wineries and was introduced to these fresh and lightly aromatic wines. Vine cultivation has its roots in this area dating back to Roman times. However, it wasn’t until the mid 19th century that the focus for wine production was specifically associated with the name Custoza, which is a historical village in the municipality of Sommacampagna. In 1939 the Experimental Station of Viticulture and Oenology of Conegliano conducted a study that identified some of the best wine-growing areas in the western province of Verona and the Sona-Custoza area was among them. In 1971, Custoza was established as a DOC and The Consorzio Tutela Vino Custoza (The Consortium for the Protection of Custoza wine) was founded in 1972. The Consortium presently represents 70 wineries, two cooperatives and 500 winemakers with vineyards covering about 1400 hectares. The vineyards are located between Lake Garda and the city of Verona with ideal south and southwest exposure in the moraine hills. Morainic soil from ancient glaciers is rich in minerals and contributes to the characteristic minerality and flavor that these wines are known for. The wines are also characterized by the microclimate of the DOC Custoza area. Hot summers and cold winters balanced with gentle breezes from Lake Garda tend to be consistent and contribute to the development of aromas of the white grapes. Under Custoza DOC rules, only nine grape varieties are allowed in the production of the wine, most of which are indigenous grapes. The wines are a blend of anywhere from three grape varieties up to seven or more. Garganega, Trebbiano Toscano and Trebbianello must be part of the blend. However, Bianca Fernanda has become a favorite grape variety to include in the blend as it brings a subtle aromatic scent to the wine. The other five grapes permitted are Malvasia, Pinot Bianco, Manzoni Bianco, Chardonnay and Riesling Italico. The final blend of the grapes is a work of art and each winemaker imparts his or her own style with consideration for the various soils as well as early or late-ripening grapes when blending. Traditional Custoza Bianco DOC must be a minimum alcohol level of 11% and aging is a minimum of three months. Custoza Superiore DOC is a blend of the best grapes, old vines and lowest yields. Alcohol level must be a minimum of 12.5% and aging is a minimum of five months. Generally speaking, the Custoza DOC wines range from pale yellow to golden hues. They tend to be lightly aromatic with fresh fruit and floral aromas. On the palate, one can taste the minerality in addition to flavors ranging anywhere from green and stone fruit to tropical notes. Some wines are meant to drink now while others are age-worthy. We visited three wineries, each with their own unique blends that imparted a lasting impression on my palate. Although all three wineries have vineyards throughout Verona and produce quality red wines as well, my main focus for this story are the wines of Custoza DOC. Monte Del Frà is in the heart of Custoza and is owned by the Bonomo family since 1958, but its history dates all the way back to 1492.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Beginning with Massimo Bonomo, Monte Del Frà has been handed down from one generation to the next over the past 60 years. Massimo’s sons Eligio and Claudio represent the second generation who are now joined by the third generation of Marica, Silvia and Massimo who all work together to make quality wine. Marica, with abundant enthusiasm, led us on a tour and guided wine tasting.  Marica Bonomo Photo credit: Penny Weiss The Monte Del Frà vineyard is comprised of 15 hectares surrounding the winery headquarters in Custoza, which grow the grape varieties Fernanda, Garganega, Trebbiano Toscano and Trebbianello. It is one of 11 territories that the Bonomo family owns throughout Verona, making for approximately 137 hectares in total.  Photo is courtesy of Monte Del Frà Monte Del Frà practices sustainability in the vineyard as well as in the winery. In the vineyard, they apply the technical procedure of integrated defense. Marica said that one of their secrets is “we just use herbs, no pesticides”. What isn’t a secret are the refreshing, fruity and mineral-driven wines that they produce. They reflect the mirror of the terrace and the passion and dedication of the family. We tasted five wines that represent the essence of Custoza.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss  Four Custoza DOC wines. Photo credit: Penny Weiss Custoza DOC 2018 is a blend of Garganega, Trebbiano Toscano, Tocai Friulano, Cortese, Chardonnay, Riesling Italico and Malvasia. This lightly aromatic wine is fresh and fruity with lots of minerality. The flavors range from apple and peach to tropical and floral notes. It is dry and there is a nice balance between the floral and minerality. Marica said, “This wine is a style of life and a passport to being you. It is to drink, relax and be stress-free.” Cá Del Magro Custoza Superiore DOC 2016 & 2017 is a blend of Garganega, Trebbiano Toscano, Cortese, Chardonnay, Riesling Italico, Malvasia and Incrocio Manzoni. The grapes are sourced from the Cá Del Magro vineyard from vines that are 30 to over 50 years old. Both wines are complex and very aromatic. They are layered with lots of fresh fruit, sweet apple, citrus, floral and minerality. The 2016 vintage showed more minerality on the nose with a mellowed palate, but as Marica said, “It is still complex and perhaps a touch more sophisticated”. Bonomo Sexaginta Custoza Superiore DOC 2015 is a blend of Garganega, Cortese, Trebbiano Toscano, Incrocio Manzoni, Pinot Bianco and Riesling Renano. Fermenting in oak and acacia small barrels adds richness to the wines. A lovely golden hue leads to notes of honeysuckle, hints of kerosene, soft white fruit and a touch of herbs. It was quite different from the other wines that I tasted but it had its own mystique and aromatic qualities that were quite pleasing to the palate. Photo The last wine that we tasted was not part of the Custoza DOC wines, but I thought it was worth mentioning. Colombara Veronese IGT Garganega 2015 is 100% Garganega. This wine is produced from 60+-year-old vines in Oliosi, a hamlet in the commune of Castelnuovo del Garda. This is a rich and succulent wine with lots of floral aroma and stone fruit that leads to a palate of elegant fruit and spice. It is nicely balanced with minerality, savory and acidity. Monte Del Frà calls this wine “a red wine disguised as a white”. Azienda Agricola Cavalchina is located in the ancient Cavalchina district of Custoza. It was the site of the first and second War of Independency during the Risorgimento in 1848 and1866. The Ossario Monument that can be seen from the winery was erected in remembrance of all the Austrian and Italian soldiers who died in these wars.  Photo courtesy of TripAdvisor  Monument as seen from Cavalchina winery at dusk, Photo credit: Penny Weiss Francesco Piona, third generation in this family-owned estate, met us at the front gate of the winery. The estate was purchased in the early 1900s and the first vineyard was planted in 1942.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Cavalchina is recognized as a pioneer in embracing the name ‘Custoza’ and they decided to put it on their wine labels. They made a decision to stop selling their white wine as ‘Soave’ and in 1962 they became the first winery in Custoza to label and promote their white wines made from Fernanda, Trebbiano and Garganega as ‘Bianco di Custoza’. And by 1971, Custoza DOC was established and became the standard label. All the grapes are hand-harvested from three vineyard areas that cover over 110 hectares. Francesco said, “This is an ancient land and the soil is deep and rich. The wine is a complete expression of the mineral part of the terroir.” With the grapes maturing at different times, each variety must be vinified separately when making a blend. The yields are kept very low to produce healthy grapes. We began our tasting with an entry-level wine and then moved on to a vertical tasting of Amedeo Superiore DOC.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Custoza DOC 2018 is a blend of Garganega, Fernanda, Trebbiano and Trebbianello. Subtle floral aromas and minerality segue onto the palate with notes of stone fruit. This is a fresh and lively wine with a surprisingly rich texture. Amedeo Superiore DOC 2018, 2010, 2007 Prince Amedeo of Savoia fought in the Third Italian War of Independence in 1866 near the Cavalchina estate. To honor his memory the wine is named after him. He is also remembered on a memorial stone at the entrance of the winery. All three wines are a blend of Garganega, Fernanda, Trebbianello and Trebbiano. They are complex and rich. It was an impressive tasting and a tribute to the aging ability of these wines. Photo of son Amedeo Superiore DOC 2018 is imbued with a rich palate of soft floral and minerality notes. Stone fruit, apple and hints of citrus are balanced with bright acidity and a hint of almond on the finish. Amedeo Superiore DOC 2010 was the last vintage that was made with oak. Notes of floral, minerality, petrol and citrus led to a rich mouth-feel with hints of oak, savory and nice acidity. Amedeo Superiore DOC 2007 Dark yellow with age, this wine was impressive. Petrol, minerality, floral and a touch of honey on the nose segued to a pleasantly rich palate of soft fruit and a hint of spice and herbs. It was elegant!  Francesco Piona proudly holding a bottle of Amedeo Superiore DOC Photo credit: Penny Weiss Gorgo Wine Estate is a small family-owned estate located in the village of Custoza. Dr. Roberto Bricolo originally bought the land as an investment in 1970 and used it to farm vegetables. His son, also a doctor named Roberto, founded the winery in 1973, and his daughter Roberta after attending law school, returned to Gorgo to take over the winery and eventually became the owner. What began with 22 hectares in Custoza is now over 60 hectares that are organically cultivated and the vineyards are spread throughout Bianco di Custoza and Bardolino production areas. As of 2018, Gorgo vineyards are organically certified.  Photo courtesy of Gorgo Wine Estates This was our last stop in Custoza and it was quite memorable. Not only were we treated to a royal feast, but we also tasted many “juicy” wines that included some exciting reds.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Perlato Custoza DOC Spumante Brut We began the evening with a refreshing glass of Spumante. It is a blend of Trebbiano toscano, Garganega, Cortese and Durello made using the Charmat method. This is a light and zesty wine with fine bubbles and soft fruit.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Custoza DOC 2018 This is Gorgo’s classic wine and bestseller. It is a blend of Garganega, Bianca Fernanda, Trebbiano toscano, Trebbianello and Incrocio Manzoni. This wine has all the classic notes one would expect of a Custoza wine. It has great aromatics, beautiful fruit notes with hints of pear and apple and minerality.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss San Michelin DOC 2018 This is a reserve wine made with Garganega, Cortese and Riesling that are harvested from 50+-year-old vines. The winemaker said, “The wine rests for six months and isn’t disturbed. It is allowed to develop with smells from the vineyard. The 2018 vintage was a great year.” Indeed, the wine is rich with a creamy mouthfeel and soft white fruit and citrus. It is beautifully balanced between savory and fruit.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Summa Custoza Superiore DOC is elegant. It is a blend of Garganega, Bianca Fernanda and other varieties like Trebbiano and Trebbianello. The grapes are hand-harvested from ancient vineyards, (50 to 60 years old). Exotic floral scents, orange blossom, stone fruit and sweet spice spill onto the palate with ripe tropical fruit and the minerality really shines through. This is an opulent and complex wine with perfect acidity and silky mouthfeel. It was a great finish to a perfect evening!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss In between visiting the wineries, we stopped for lunch at Trattoria Colli Storici to feast on the local cuisine and Custoza wines. The wines paired beautifully with all the dishes served, including dessert! Custoza DOC wines are very approachable and food-friendly as proven by all the wonderful cuisine we sampled along with the wines. The next time you’re in Verona, take a ride to Custoza and treat yourself to a feast of wine and food. In the meantime, pick up a bottle or two at your favorite wine shop. I can’t wait to add a few bottles of Custoza wines to my collection. Until next time...  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Cheers!
Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com Having visited Sicily a few times over the past three years, I had the opportunity to spend time at many wineries, drink a variety of memorable wines and indulge in mouthwatering cuisine. I completely fell in love with the beauty and culture of the island.  Sicily Photo credit: Penny Weiss I have traveled from Catania to Trapani and in-between and even spent time on the enchanting island of Pantelleria. However, the one area of Sicily that still eludes me is Mt. Etna.  Thanks to Donnafugata, I was recently gifted a holiday basket that included a bottle of their Fragore Etna Rosso DOC, one of the newest editions to their portfolio. After one sip my palate did a happy dance as I was momentarily transported back to Sicily.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss I have written numerous stories and reviews about Donnafugata that you can read under the category “Donnafugata” on the right-hand side of this page. So, without further ado, I’m heading straight to Mt. Etna…at least my palate is! In addition to four other areas with vineyards spread across Sicily, Donnafugata has approximately 18 hectares of vineyard production on Etna in eastern Sicily and all 18 hectares are in the DOC zone. The vineyards are located on the north side of the volcano and are spread out among 5 districts, with the highest altitude of 750 meters above sea level in Randazzo. While this area benefits from the Mediterranean climate, the proximity of the very active Mt. Etna volcano plays an important role in the surrounding soils. This soil is rich with volcanic nutrients thanks to volcanic ash and rock, which in turn provides nutrients to the grapevines and ultimately helps to create more concentrated flavor and complexity in the wines. The soils for this particular wine are rather unique as explained on Donnafugata’s website. “With its eruptions, Etna produces “sciare”, accumulations of lava, that through long physical-chemical processes give rise to the sandy, and therefore cultivable, soils on the slopes of the volcano. Each lava flow, that took place in different historical periods, determines a specific composition of the terrains: this is the imprint that makes the wine from a micro-territory unique. In particular, the lava flow of Montelaguardia, where the cru Fragore is produced, dates back to 1614-1624.” Donnafugata Fragore Etna Rollo DOC Contrada Montelaguardia 2016 This first vintage wine is made with 100% Nerello Mascalese. The grapes are sourced and handpicked from Montelaguardia area of Randazzo and vinified at Donnafugata’s winery in Randazzo. Aging took place in French oak barrels for 14 months and then a minimum of 10 months in the bottle before release.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss A bright color of red raspberry leads to a beautiful bouquet of floral, red berries, cherry, sweet spice, minerality and a whiff of smoke. The palate offers a profusion of berries, cherry, minerality and hints of balsamic and anise. Spice and sour cherry linger on a long and luxurious finish. This is an elegant wine that is delicately balanced with refreshing acidity and tannins. This complex wine brings the essence of Mt. Etna to your palate! Serve with grilled meat, tuna and spicy or tangy cuisine. Alcohol: 14.5% SRP: $85 Fragore literally means ‘crash or thunder’ in Italian, and the interpretation here is that of “thunder’ alluding to the explosive and volcanic thunder of the volcano. Every whimsical label of Donnafugata wines tells a story called “Dialog With Art” that I like to include with my reviews. Here is the dialog for Fragore.  Image courtesy of Donnafugata “Donnafugata is “projected” towards the future, like an object launched into space, attracted by invisible gravities. Illustrator Stefano Vitale captures this perpetual motion perfectly in the latest label of Fragore that represents the volcano’s roar. Donnafugata continues its journey towards the most remote corners of Sicily: east to Vittoria and then up to the highest point on the island, on the Etna volcano.”
The next time you want to experience the wonders of Mt. Etna, pour a glass of Fragore and immerse yourself in the magic of Sicily! Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com About six months ago I discovered NUE vodka while browsing in a spirits shop. I was so impressed with this vodka after tasting it, I wrote a story about it. There are not that many types of vodka on the market under $14 that deserve my attention. But when I find them, I like to sing their praises!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss So, I’m back to sing again about NUE flavored vodka that I received as a “thank you” for my first story. But before I begin, here is a repeat performance about the company in case you missed the first one. From my last story about NUE: “Southwest Spirits is a full-service distillery located in Dallas, Texas and it is also the third-largest distillery in Texas. They have an impressive portfolio of over 25 brands that they produce, including their best selling brand and award-winning NUE Vodka. All spirit production is done on-site in their over 103,000 square foot facility that is fully equipped with pot stills and a 14’ column still for producing premium spirits. The distillery also has grain milling capabilities, tank farms and four high-speed bottling lines with multiple filling capabilities. NUE Vodka is crafted in small batches to control and ensure the highest quality that ultimately provides clean, smooth vodka. Ingredients are locally sourced high-quality corn and water that has gone through a process of Reverse Osmosis, which extracts mineral content and any impurities in the water. The vodka is 6x distilled through an advanced column process that also removes natural impurities.” As you might know by now, I’m a “purist” when it comes to drinking vodka. I tend to like it cold, neat and unflavored. However, I was pleasantly surprised by NUE Grapefruit and Peach vodka. They weren’t cloyingly sweet or medicinal as some flavored vodkas tend to be. Also, both vodkas are naturally flavored.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss NUE Grapefruit Vodka The color is clear with a fresh and pleasing aroma of freshly squeezed grapefruits. Ruby red grapefruit comes to mind when tasting this vodka. A gentle drop or two of grapefruit flavor allows for a touch of vanilla and citrus zest to come through on the finish with a dash of heat. This is a refreshing vodka that drinks well neat. Alcohol: 35%, 70 proof. SRP: $11.99  Photo credit: Penny Weiss NUE Peach Vodka The color is clear and clean with floral and stone fruit aromas. I found this to be a touch sweet, but it has nice flavors of fresh peach and hints of vanilla. It is smooth with much less heat on the finish than NUE’s other vodkas. Although I would not drink this one neat, it would make a fabulous ingredient in a cocktail. Alcohol: 35%, 70 proof SRP: $11.99  Photo credit: Penny Weiss The value to price ratio of NUE vodka is certainly going to give many imported vodkas a run for their money! And, I am happy to add NUE vodka to my growing collection.
Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com If you are looking for expressive French wines that will please your palate, includes a vast range of styles, are food-friendly and won't put a dent in your wallet, then read on.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Southwest France, (Sud-Ouest in French) is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on the west, the massive Pyrénées Mountains and Spain to the south and Bordeaux to the north. It is the fifth-largest winegrowing region in France with 300 grape varieties of which 130 are native grapes. Add to that, over 120,000 acres of land of which 40,000 acres are vineyards, plus 42 geographical designations and you have an impressive wine region.  Map credit: www.winefolly.com Without going into too much detail, there are four sub-regions throughout the Southwest with varying types of climate, soil and grape varietals. Typical climates can range between temperate oceanic and continental depending on how close the vineyards are to the ocean or if located more inland. The soil composition also varies with clay-limestone, tawny sands and pebbles throughout most of the region. These diverse, terroir-driven wines derive their character and expression from these elements and therefore the winegrowers in Southwest are taking climate change very seriously. A major concern is that over the past few decades, dozens of native grape varieties have disappeared. Three progressive groups have formed throughout the region and they are actively tracking the existing grapes, looking for ways to adapt to global warming and reduce carbon footprint. Many winegrowers are practicing sustainability with organic and minimal interference in the vineyards. And some winemakers are studying the genetic makeup of ancient grape varieties in the hopes of creating newer versions of the grapes that can adapt to climate change and are resistant to disease. The sub-regions of the Southwest are: Bergerac & Dordogne River, Tarn-et-Garonne, Lot River, Pyrénées and IGP- Côte de Gascogne Within these sub-regions are many small villages and communal appellations that must adhere to the rules and regulations of AOP (Appellation d’Origine Protégée) or IGP for larger designated areas (Protected Geographical Indication). I recently received five Southwest France wines representing different sub-regions and appellations. In addition to the quality of these wines, the price range is an impressive range of $9 - $13! Domaine des Cassagnoles, Côtes de Gascogne 2018 IGP Depending on the vintage, this wine is typically Colombard dominant with Ugni Blanc and Gros Manseng grapes. The wine is aged in tanks until bottling. A floral bouquet leads to a crisp wine that is nicely balanced between fruit and acidity. Stone fruit, minerality, green apples and a hint of lime entertain the palate. Drink as an aperitif or serve with light appetizers, fish and light pasta. Alcohol: 12.5% SRP: $10  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Château Lastours, Gaillac 2016 AOP This wine is a blend of 30% Syrah, 30% Braucol, 20% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon. It is aged in tanks for 2 to 3 years. The wine is deliciously juicy with ripe red berries, spice and soft tannins. Serve with grilled or roasted meats, poultry, casseroles and cheese. Alcohol: 13% SRP: $10  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Vinovalie, L’infini Malbec Cahors 2016 AOP This wine is 100% Malbec. It has lovely aromas of dark fruit and spice that spill onto the palate with juicy blackberry, blueberry and plum. The wine is nicely balanced with soft tannins. Vanilla, toasted nuts and pepper linger on the finish. Serve with grilled meat, chicken and hearty stews. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $9  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Château Tour Des Gendres, Bergerac 2016 AOP This wine is a blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Malbec. Raspberry, cherry and sweet spice aromas lead to a palate of juicy black cherry, plum and spice. This is a beautifully structured wine that will pair well with roasted meat, game, hearty stews and aged cheese. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $13  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Famille Laplace, Madiran Laplace 2016 AOP This is a blend of 70% Tannat and 30% Cabernet Franc. Although Tannat tends to be quite tannic, this wine is rich and surprisingly smooth. Lots of juicy dark fruit and acidity blend perfectly with hints of violet and spice. Pepper, vanilla and a hint of anise linger on a long finish. This wine will pair nicely with roasted red meat, white meat, stews and risotto. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $13  Photo credit: Penny Weiss I had to pinch myself a few times and reread my notes on the prices for these wines to make sure that I hadn’t transposed the numbers. Not only are the wines engaging and expressive, but the price to value ratio has left me speechless! No wonder that cases, as opposed to bottles, are being sold. I think it’s time to explore more of these delectable wines from Southwest France!
Until next time... Cheers! Penny To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com It began in 1999 with the birth of a partnership between Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) and the Catena family of Mendoza. Their mission was to produce a wine that would combine French and Argentine cultures. Baron Eric de Rothschild described it as, “An association between two cultures, two families and two noble grapes.” Bodegas Caro was born and the two signature grapes of each producer, Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon became the focus of their endeavors.  Photo courtesy of Bodegas Caro Together, these families have combined their knowledge and expertise to produce elegant wines. The Catena family, who has produced wine for four generations, contributed their knowledge of the high altitude terroirs of the Mendoza region and to find the best vineyards for Malbec. Domaines Barons de Rothschild contributed their knowledge and centuries-old skills in growing, vinifying and aging Cabernet Sauvignon. DBR also imparted the art of blending different grape varieties to produce one great wine. The first vintage in 2000, called CARO, was a success and led to the creation of Amancaya in 2003, a Malbec dominated cuvée. Aruma Malbec (100%) was introduced with the 2010 vintage. The vineyards are located in two zones in Mendoza. The first zone is in Luján de Cuyo and Maipú. This zone is noted to be among the best in Argentina for making wines. The altitude range is 2625 ft. to 2953 ft. with average temperatures of 46 to 73 degrees. The second zone is in the Uco Valley in Tunuyán, Tupungato and San Carlos. The altitude range is 3280 ft. to 5250 ft. with average temperatures of 44 degrees to 71 degrees. The high elevations in these zones are beneficial to the grapes due to the high daytime temperatures and cooler nights. This diurnal temperature variation contributes to slowing the ripening process, extending the growing season and allowing the grapes time to produce balanced sugar and acidity.  All of the grapes are handpicked and hand-sorted before de-stemming and vinification to make sure that only the best grapes are used. Each vintage is aged in oak barrels, 18 months for CARO and 12 months for Amancaya. Most of the barrels are made at the DBR’s cooperage in Bordeaux. Aruma Malbec is aged in tanks to preserve the fruit-driven style and to allow the varietal characteristics of the grape to come through. Overseeing all of this is Philippe Rolet, Estate Manager and winemaker who joined Bodegas Caro in January 2019. Philippe was born in Jura, France into a family-owned winery, Domaine Rolet. He began his career at Domaine William Fèvre and went on to work with many prestigious wineries in Argentina, Chile and France before becoming estate manager for Bodegas Caro.  Philippe Rolet Photo courtesy of Bodegas Caro I asked Philippe what his biggest challenge was in the vineyards and presumed he might speak about springtime frost and summertime hail that are common threats in high altitude vineyards. I was not expecting the following answer! "The biggest challenge we face in the vineyard is living together with ants. The vineyards in Mendoza are located in a semi-desert climate. In this environment, apart from vineyards, leaves are rare. Our vineyards are in transition for organic management. We do not use pesticides or insecticides. Therefore, ants can be very damaging, destroying young shoots and leaves in springtime, thus, reducing crops and also killing vines. Ants are part of our biodiversity. Our actual challenge is offering them something more appetizing than our vine leaves. Native flowers appear as a good alternative. We actually investigated the right native species to plant within our vineyards." After doing a little reading, I learned that ants are indeed an issue in many vineyards of Argentina. I am quite happy that Philippe and his team were able to solve their ant problem and my palate is especially pleased. I recently had the opportunity to taste two of the estate wines and I was duly impressed by their quality and expression.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Bodegas Caro Amancaya Reserve Red Blend 2017
This is a blend of 72% Malbec and 28% Cabernet Sauvignon. The grapes were handpicked from vines over 30 years old. Aging took place for 12 months with 50% in French oak barrels and 50% in concrete vats. This ruby-red wine is filled with aromas of cherry, raspberry and baking spice. The palate is layered with lush fruit of ripe cherries and plum followed by spice and slight oak integration. A hint of cocoa and anise linger on the finish with soft tannins. This is a beautiful blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec that clearly shows off the marriage of Argentinian and Bordeaux styles. This wine is named after Amancaya, a mountain flower that grows in the Andes. Alcohol: 14% SRP $70.99 Bodegas Caro Aruma Malbec 2017 This wine is 100% Malbec. As previously noted, the grapes are handpicked and the wine is aged in tanks. The color is dark ruby with intense aromas of floral, red fruit and a hint of herbs. An array of juicy and fruit-driven flavors greet the palate with cherry, blackberry and spice. This is a graceful wine with a harmonious balance between tannins, acidity and alcohol. “Aruma” means “night” in the Quechua language. The name was chosen for “the intense darkness of the nights in the Andes and the pure mountain air that give the wines the rich, authentic character of their terroir.” Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $70.99 Both wines will pair well with appetizers, grilled meat, stews, hearty pasta and fatty fish such as grilled tuna. These wines are a treat to drink and priced well. I’m looking forward to tasting CARO in the next few weeks and sharing my thoughts with you. Until then… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com Inhaling the aromas of Brachetto wine is like being transported to a rose garden that is in full bloom. Add a juicy array of wild strawberries, raspberry and other red berries to the flavors of this wine and one’s palate just might reach nirvana.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss I recently visited the DOCG region of Brachetto d’Acqui located in the southeastern part of Piedmont, Italy to learn more about this very aromatic grape. The Consorzio Tutela Brachetto d’Acqui DOCG provided us with a wealth of information and sated our palates with delicious wine. The Consortium for the Protection of Acqui wines was founded in 1992 in the town of Acqui Terme and was the main force in attaining DOCG status to Brachetto d’Acqui in1996. The map below defines the territory consisting of about 1200 hectares.  Brachetto grapes, which are indigenous to Piedmont, are purplish-blue with firm-fleshed berries that are full and dense and characterized by their high sugar content and powerful aromas. These aromas are provided by the terpenes found in the grape skins. The main terpene in Brachetto is called geraniol, which is associated with the scent of roses. The wines tend to be pleasantly sweet, fruity, light-bodied, low in alcohol (5.5% - 7%) and have soft tannins.  Photo courtesy of Consortium Brachetto d'Acqui The grapevines grow in what is considered “the aromatic hills” in marl, calcareous clay and red soils. The climate for this region is continental with Mediterranean and Alpine influences. All of this contributes to the development of the grape’s intense aromas and delicate flavor.  Photo courtesy of Banfi Winery Brachetto d’Acqui, DOCG These ruby-colored wines are mostly consumed as sparkling or semi-sparkling wines with frothy, creamy bubbles and powerful aromatics. Several styles are made using the Charmat/ Martinotti method where secondary fermentation occurs in pressurized, controlled temperature tanks for 30 days, during which the sugars in the must are transformed into alcohol and carbon dioxide by the yeasts. The wine is then immediately bottled and marketed. The differences in tank pressure help to determine the level of sparkle in the wine. Red (still) Style: These are dry wines with low residual sugar and at times made with a touch of effervescence (frizzante). They have all the quality, aromas and flavors of the grape. Sparkling Style: (produced using the Charmat/Martinotti method) Acqui DOCG This style can range from Extra Brut to sweet. Acqui DOCG Rosé (first vintage 2017) This rosé is offered as a sparkler and as a still wine. Passito Style: The grapes are dried for a minimum of nine months to concentrate both flavor and sweetness before pressing. This wine is high in sweetness and alcohol (16%) and extremely complex, concentrated and is a decadent dessert wine. Unlike the sparkling wines that have a limited shelf life of two years, Passito can be stored for decades. I did not have the opportunity to taste the Passito wine, but all of the other wines were amazing. They can be enjoyed as an appertivo or with many different styles of cuisine. Pair with appetizers, goat cheese and savory or spicy dishes. They are not just dessert wines but I must confess they are a perfect marriage for chocolate, especially dark chocolate! Serve these wines chilled. This is one of my favorite wines from our Brachetto Masterclass. Bersano Acqui DOCG Spumante Brut Rosé This is a delightfully aromatic and refreshing sparkling wine made in the Charmat method with all the classic aromas and flavors of Brachetto. It has a creamy perlage with lingering notes of raspberries and roses. SRP: $18 to $23  Photo credit: Penny Weiss While in the DOCG region of Brachetto d’Acqui we visited Banfi Winery for a quick tour and tasting.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss The Banfi estate is located in Strevi and has 50 hectares of land of which 46 hectares are dedicated to noble wines. Banfi sparkling wines are made in the Metodo Classico as well as the Charmat method. Their recently restored cellar has an area dedicated to the production of Charmat wines as well as Metodo Classico production which is in the heart of the cellar. The barrel room is dedicated to the maturation of the noble Piedmontese red wines, Dolcetto and Albarossa. Here are two tasty Banfi wines that you might want to put on your shopping list.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Rosa Regale Brachetto D’Acqui DOCG 2019 is made with 100% Brachetto and is produced using the Charmat method. This is a well-balanced sparkling wine with just the right amount of sweetness and acidity. Aromas of roses and red berries spill onto the palate with a refreshing and soft sparkle. Alcohol: 7% SRP: $12 to $15 Cuvée Aurora Alta Langa DOCG 2015 This sparkling wine is made with 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay using the Metodo Classico method. Aromas of apple, vanilla, yeast and a hint of minerality open to a palate of persistent perlage, soft fruit, apple, pear and brioche. It finishes with a hint of citrus zest. Alcohol: 12% SRP: $16 to $23 In addition to enjoying Brachetto d’Acqui as an appertivo or with food, this wine is also a great ingredient in cocktails. Let your creative spirit run wild and invent a cocktail that everyone will remember!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss So, the next time you want to “wake up and smell the roses”, pour yourself a glass of Brachetto d’Acqui, DOCG. Your palate will be happy that you did.
Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com As you may have gleaned by now, I am a fan of sparkling wine. Whether it’s toasting a special occasion or sitting home by the fire with a book, a glass of bubbly always lifts my spirits and is a welcome treat. Not long ago I visited the Piedmont region located in northwestern Italy. The focus of my trip was to re-acquaint my taste buds with the sparkling wines as well as the still wines of Asti. The Consortium of Asti and Moscato d’Asti, DOCG was our guide on this illuminating exploration. The Moscato Bianco grape (Moscato is the Italian word for Muscat) is making a big comeback in the USA and abroad and taking its rightful place once again among the many styles of sparkling wine available on the market. And I’m here to dispel the myth that it is just a sweet wine that should only be served at the dessert table. These are highly aromatic, light, refreshing, low alcohol wines that are fun to drink, but they are also very expressive, leaving one’s palate quite satisfied.  Moscato Bianco grapes. Photo courtesy of Moscato d'Asti. Although Moscato Bianco is grown in every Italian region, it is mainly associated with Piedmont where it is believed to have its origins dating back to the 13th century as documented in the statues of the village of Canelli, a subzone in the province of Asti.  Many historic wineries are located in Canelli that include Gancia, Coppo and Contratta. In fact, it was Carlo Gancia who in 1865 created Spumante Italiano, making it the birthplace of Asti Spumante. (Spumante means ‘sparkling wine’ in Italian.) Canelli and Santo Stefano Belbo were the most important production centers and from these towns, Moscato Bianco vines were shipped worldwide. The “Consorzio per la Tutela dell’ASTI’ (Consortium for the Protection of Asti wines) was formed in 1932 to protect, develop and promote Asti DOCG and Moscato d’Asti DOCG in Italy and worldwide.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Asti DOCG and Moscato d’Asti DOCG are produced in 52 communes within Piedmont. Moscato Bianco vineyards span an area of about 9,800 hectares divided among 3,700 wineries and producers.  Asti landscape. Photo courtesy of Moscato d'Asti Part of the focus of the Consortium is quality control and protection against counterfeit wine. They have an impressive research lab that “promotes and coordinates specific scientific studies and innovative technologies to continuously improve the production process as a whole”. As we toured the lab we were told that due to climate change and the weather getting warmer each year they are working in the lab to find ways to compensate and adapt the vines to climate change. In addition to all this, 15 samples are taken from each vineyard to determine when grapes should be harvested. Harvest time is crucial as the sugar, acidity and aromatic components must be in perfect balance and harmony before grapes are picked. Once this is established the grapes must be handpicked immediately. With the end of World War ll, Asti Spumante became very popular in the United States as soldiers returned home with these light, sweet wines. However, with its popularity came the demand for more wine. And so bulk production ensued and quality went downhill. An abundance of poorly made Asti Spumante was exported and subsequently got a bad reputation as a low-quality sweet wine. Moscato Asti received DOCG status in 1993 and the word “Spumante” was eliminated, although you might still see “Asti Spumante” on many wine labels. Today, Asti wines are refined, not cloyingly sweet and they retain the classic aromas and flavors of the Moscato Bianco grape that include floral, a profusion of fruit such as fresh grapes, mandarin orange, peach, apricot, Meyer lemon and musk. Wine producers are more careful with production and as Luigi Coppo of Coppo Winery said, “It is time to take Moscato Bianco seriously as wine. Our objective is to transfer the aromatics of the grape to the bottle. It is known as a dessert wine, but it is made as a sparkling wine.” Canelli became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in June 2014 and is noted for its surrounding historic vineyards and intricate subterranean wine cellars called “Underground Cathedrals”. These cellars weave in and out of Canelli for about 20 miles. I had the opportunity to visit the historical wine cellars at Coppo Winery, which are a UNESCO World Heritage site and part of the Underground Cathedrals. Luigi Coppo explained, “In parts of this tunnel there are over 42 meters of dirt above us. The tunnels are ideal for storing wine because it is stable in here with constant and perfect temperature and humidity. This all-natural tunnel was built in the late 18th century with an addition in 1920 that took only one week to build”! Below is a slideshow of the Underground Cathedrals. Photo credit: Penny Weiss The Moscato Bianca grapevines are planted on hills at an average of 200 to 300 meters above sea level with some elevations that are more than 500 meters. Ancient chalky soils, microclimates and sun exposure adds character to these terroir-driven wines. The three types of DOCG Moscato wines produced are Asti Dolce DOCG, Asti Secco DOCG and Moscato D’Asti DOCG. Asti Dolce DOCG received DOCG recognition in 1993. The grape variety must be 100% Moscato Bianco with a maximum yield of 100 quintals (10 tons) of grapes per hectare. The average alcohol content is usually between 7% and 9%. This sparkling wine is a harmonious balance of sweet and acidity with classic aromas and flavors of grapes, acacia blossom, orange, honey, spice and fine and persistent foam. Asti Secco DOCG received DOCG recognition in 2017. It is the “dry” version of Asti Dolce but still retains all the classic characteristics of the grape. The grape variety must be 100% Moscato Bianco with a maximum yield of 100 quintals (10 tons) of grapes per hectare. The average alcohol content is allowed up to 11%. Typical aromas and flavors are fruity with apple, pear, lavender, sage and acacia along with fine and persistent foam. Moscato d’Asti received DOCG recognition in 1993. The grape variety must be 100% Moscato Bianco with a maximum yield of 100 quintals (10 tons) of grapes per hectare. Unlike the full sparkling Asti wines, Moscato d’Asti can be made still or less effervescent with a hint of frizzante (fizz) and is therefore not considered a sparkling wine. It has lower alcohol content and can be no more than 5.5% alcohol by law. These wines are delicate, lightly sweet and have intense musky aromas with characteristic flavors of floral, peach, apricot, sage, lemon and orange blossom. Here are just a few of the memorable wines that I tasted. Matteo Soria Bric Prima Bella Asti DOCG Extra Dry 2017 has a beautiful perlage that is fine and persistent. Fragrant aromas of floral, acacia and a hint of citrus segue onto the palate with a dry and aromatic finish. This is a perfect sparkling wine to serve with appetizers and main course.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Coppo Moncalvina Moscato d’Asti Canelli DOCG 2019 is a light, sweet wine with floral and stone fruit aromas. It is fresh with floral and peach on the palate. Serve with an assortment of cheese and desserts. Alcohol: 4.81%  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Cascina Cerutti Surì Sandrinet Moscato d’Asti DOCG Canelli This is a delightfully fragrant wine with notes of flowers, peach and citrus. The palate offers a light effervescent mouthfeel with fresh grapes, floral and a hint of sage. This is a great wine to pair with cheese, appetizers and fruit. Alcohol: 4.83%  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Acquesi Asti DOCG This is a good example of an Asti Dolce wine. It is very aromatic with a palate of fresh fruit, white flowers, peaches, lemon zest and a hint of honeydew melon. It offers persistent and creamy bubbles with a lively and easy finish. Use your imagination in pairing this wine with food! Alcohol: 7%  Photo credit: Penny Weiss I tasted a multitude of wines while in Asti and I was impressed not only by the quality and flavor, but these are also food-friendly wines that will pair beautifully with a variety of appetizers, main courses, and desserts as well as enjoying as an aperitif. Don’t let the sweetness scare you! Be adventurous! Also, these sparkling wines are great to make cocktails with. While visiting Martini and Rossi Winery, I was served a refreshing cocktail made with Martini & Rossi Riserva Speciale Bitter Liqueur topped off with their Asti sparkling wine. Perfection!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Still to come are the Brachetto D’Acqui DOCG wines, Franciacorta DOCG wines and Custoza DOCG wines. I will also be focusing on a few of the winemakers Stay tuned!
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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