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Labor Day has come and gone, and we have flipped the calendar page to September. However, summer isn’t officially over until September 22nd. We still have more beach days, picnics, grilling, outdoor concerts, and summer sunsets to enjoy!  Photo credit: Karsten Wurth With that in mind, here are four wines that will take you through the end of summer, into the fall, and even winter!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Moser 51.151 Trentodoc Brut Sparkling Wine NV Moser Winery, located in Trentino, Italy, was established in 1979 by Diego and Francesco Moser. Today, the winery is run by third-generation Carlo and Matteo, who combine family traditions with innovative and modern winemaking techniques. Moser winery sits among the Dolomites in the Trentodoc appellation, with vineyards benefiting from micro-climates and diurnal variations. This sparkling wine is produced in the Metodo Classico method, with 100% Chardonnay grapes grown on limestone soils in the Trento DOC Bianco appellation. Secondary fermentation and aging occur in bottle for 15 months on the lees.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Floral, apples, citrus zest, white stone fruit, and baked croissant. Palate: A crisp and lively wine with fine perlage and notes of minerality, sapidity, and a touch of lemon zest on the finish. Alcohol: 12.5% SRP: $23 Pairing suggestions: Enjoy as an aperitif or with light appetizers, seafood, mushroom risotto, and dessert. Bolla Pinot Grigio Delle Venezie DOC 2023 Bolla Winery was founded in 1883 by Alberto Bolla in Soave. In 1931, he opened a winery in Pedemonte, a town in the province of Vicenza, Veneto, Italy. And in 2006, Gruppo Italiano Vini purchased the company. In 2016, Pinot Grigio attained DOC status in the geographical area of Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, and Trentino for the production of Pinot Grigio Delle Venezie DOC. The DOC Delle Venezie covers almost 28 thousand hectares of vineyards, encompassing the entire northeast area of Italy! The grapes for this 100% Pinot Grigio are sourced from hillside vineyards in Delle Venezie.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: White stone fruit, citrus, green apple, and melon. Palate: Light with crisp acidity, minerality, and hints of melon and peach lingering on the finish. Alcohol: 12% SRP: $11.99 Pairing suggestions: Enjoy as an aperitif or with seafood (especially oily fish) or shellfish. Also, white meat, light pasta, salads, and vegetable risotto pair nicely. Avivo Rosé Wine 2023 Avivo Wines is led by Ridgely Evers, Founder & CEO, and Daniel Fitzgerald, Director of Winemaking and owner. Their mission and goal is to make “clean wines.” They are committed to transparency and regenerative agriculture that reaches beyond sustainability in the vineyard and winery. In addition, AVIVO packages its wines in lightweight glass and uses Nomacorc Ocean corks made from recycled marine plastic waste. The blend for this rosé is 95% Sangiovese and 5% Syrah. The grapes are sourced from Ledbetter Family Vineyards in Lodi, CA. Fermentation took place in neutral oak and was aged in neutral French oak barrels for five months.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Floral notes, red berries, vanilla, and a dash of citrus. Palate: Expressive! Dry, racy acidity, raspberry, melon, and a touch of cherry and pepper on the finish. Oh my! Alcohol: 12.8% SRP: $24 Pairing suggestions: Enjoy as an aperitif or with appetizers, seafood, crab quiche, light pasta, or grilled chicken. San Pedro 1865 Selected Vineyards Carmenère 2019 Viña San Pedro is situated in Maule Valley, Chile. It was founded in 1865, hence the name of the wine. Today, it is one of the largest and oldest exporters of Chilean wine. The grapes for this 100% Carmenère were sourced from San Pedro’s vineyards in Pencahue in the Maule Valley, and production took place at their Molina Winery in the Curicó Valley, 200 km south of Santiago. After fermentation, the wine was aged 12 months in French oak barrels (90%) and American oak (10%). 20% of the barrels were new.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Intoxicating notes of dark fruit, cherry, baking spice, herbs, and pepper. Palate: Smooth tannins, rich and savory, with juicy blackberry and cherry leading the parade, followed by a hint of plum and a grand finale of cherry fusing with subtle herbs and pepper on a long finish. Alcohol: 14.5 % SRP: $20 Pairing suggestions: Get the grill going and enjoy this wine with seared tuna, steak, and fowl. Or serve with hearty stews, pasta, charcuterie, or cheese boards. Cheers to embracing the last few weeks of summer and looking forward to a stellar autumn!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Until next time…
Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com Many years ago, when my taste buds started developing a fine appreciation for wine, Pinot Grigio was not high on my list of enjoyable wines. I felt it lacked personality. It wasn’t until quite a few years later that I tasted Pinot Grigio from the northeastern area of Italy for the first time and had an “aha” moment. So this was how Pinot Grigio was supposed to taste! I was hooked! Pinot Grigio, aka Pinot Gris, is a white wine grape that thrives in a cool climate. The color of the skin ranges from dark purple to pink to grayish. (grigio means gray in Italian.)  Photo courtesy of Consorzio Delle Venezia DOC Pinot Grigio is grown throughout Italy and in other countries. However, some of the best expressions of this wine come from the finest areas in northeastern Italy, most notably the production area of Triveneto, with particular attention to Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, and Trentino-Alto Adige.  The climate in the Triveneto area is conducive to growing Pinot Grigio with its micro-climates and terroirs. Surrounded by water and mountains with the Alpine arc to the north, the Adriatic Sea to the east, and Lake Garda to the west, mother nature has formed a perfect scenario for creating cooler temperatures and ventilating breezes, along with sharp fluctuations in day to night temperatures that contribute to the concentration of high acidity, complexity, and aromas in the grapes.  Photo courtesy of Consorzio Delle Venezia DOC In 2016, Pinot Grigio attained DOC status in the geographical area of Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, and Trentino for the production of Pinot Grigio Delle Venezie DOC. The DOC Delle Venezie covers almost 28 thousand hectares of vineyards, encompassing the entire northeast area of Italy,  The Consorzio Delle Venezia DOC, headquartered in Verona, was established in April 2017 with the following mission: 1) Defend and protect the production of Pinot Grigio Delle Venezia DOC for the benefit of the thousands of winegrowers who have invested in the variety. 2) Protect the consumer and guarantee high-quality wine standards through a certification system and a government seal on every bottle with a traceability tool. (look for the seal on the neck of the bottle) 3) Maintain control and a shared vision of the world’s most extensive area for Pinot Grigio production, its homeland.  Certification Seal Photo credit: Penny Weiss As of July 2022, there are 6,141 winegrowers, 575 winemakers, and 371 bottlers within the DOC Delle Venezie. The Consorzio said, “85% of the Italian production of Pinot Grigio, the first in the world for volume, is produced in the Triveneto, while in turn, the Italian production of Pinot Grigio represents 43% of the world production: the DOC of the Venezie region, therefore, represents a large slice of the Pinot Grigio world supply.” Concerning exportation, 96% of bottled wine is exported to countries such as the USA (40%), the UK (27%), and Germany (10%). Pinot Grigio is a dry, easy-drinking wine that is clean, fresh, and aromatic. Flavors range from zesty and straightforward to complex. Typical flavor profiles of this wine include but are not limited to floral notes, green apple, lime, lemon, white stone fruit, pear, honeysuckle, bitter almond, bright acidity, and minerality. Here are two samples of Pinot Grigio.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Santa Sofia Antichello Pinot Grigio Delle Venezie DOC 2020 Production area: Veneto Nose: Fruity bouquet with floral and green apples up front. Palate: Nectarine, green apples, and lime, with bright acidity. Alcohol: 12% Ca’Duso Motolo Pinot Grigio Delle Venezie DOC 2020 Production area: Municipality of Costabissara (Vicenza) Nose: Floral, melon, apples, minerality Palate: Zesty acidity with white stone fruit and minerality Alcohol: 12.5% Food Pairings Due to its racy acidity, any seafood (especially oily fish) or shellfish will pair well. Also, white meat, light pasta, salads, and vegetable risotto pair nicely. Or, enjoy it as an aperitif!  Pinot Grigio is a perfect sipper for any occasion and any time of the year. Look for the certification seal on the neck of the bottle and treat yourself to a taste of the only Pinot Grigio I drink! Your palate will thank me! Until next time... Cheers! Penina  This is a sponsored article written for the Consorzio DOC delle Venezie for which I received compensation.
To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com Earth Day is a yearly celebration founded by Senator Gaylord Nelson in 1970. It is celebrated worldwide every April 22nd, and this year’s theme is “Invest In Our Planet.” The objective of Earth Day is to promote environmental awareness and respect for life on the planet. It is essential to do our part all year long and to move toward a more sustainable environment and a healthy future for the earth. Globally, more wineries than ever before are contributing their efforts to maintain sustainable practices in the vineyard and wine production. A chemical-free environment, careful use of energy, water conservation, and best use of the environment are becoming the focus. Many wineries are turning to organic farming and replacing the use of pesticides, fungicides, artificial chemical fertilizers, and herbicides with alternative measures that promote respect for the grape and its environment. Every country, state, and region has its own rigorous requirements for sustainability and organic farming certifications. In addition to these practices, carbon footprint reduction and biodynamic practices are other methods used in grape growing and wine production. A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases (including carbon dioxide and methane) generated by our actions. Rethinking packaging, using solar power, and lowering CO2 emissions are among the many measures wineries are adopting. Biodynamics is a method of farming based around a specific astronomic calendar focusing on the rhythms of nature. It combines a holistic, ecological, and ethical approach in cultivating grapevines. With absolutely no partiality or intent to exclude other countries, let’s look at several viticulturists and wine producers in Chile, Italy, Spain, and Oregon State to see how they contribute positively to our planet. Chile In 2011, Chile formalized its dedication to sustainability and developed the award-winning Sustainability Code for the Chilean Wine Industry (SCWI) or Código de Sustentabilidad de la Industria Vitivinícola Chilena. The world’s most wide-ranging wine sustainability code, SCWI, has served as an inspiration for numerous other countries and wine regions. SCWI features 351 individual requirements divided into four categories: Viticulture, Vinification & Bottling, Social, and Wine Tourism. In the ten years since its inception, SCWI has been adopted by all the country’s leading wine producers and accounts for 80% of Chile’s bottled wine exports. Emiliana Organic Vineyards, a pioneer in Chile, is one of the world’s largest organic and biodynamic wine producers. In commemoration of Earth Day, Emiliana is calling for a joining of forces to protect and reaffirm its responsibility to the planet through these eight commitments that they follow:
3. Conserving Biodiversity in the vineyards 4. Reducing Carbon Footprint 5. Reducing Energy Consumption 6. Reducing Water Consumption 7. Minimizing the environmental impact of Supplies 8. Minimizing the Generation of Waste and increasing Recycling Among other things, Emiliana has 91 organic vegetable gardens for its employees, with many participating in collective growing to provide healthy food for their families.  Photo courtesy of Emiliana Organic Vineyards Viña Tarapacá estate, farmed since 1874 in Isla de Maipo, is Chile’s traditional vinous heart and is known for its diverse soils that enable it to grow an array of grapes successfully. In addition, Viña Tarapacá has a powerful sense of environmental friendliness, submitting to the highest international quality standards and certifications. Viña Tarapacá planted more than 11,000 native trees and shrubs to restore the natural environmental balance and reconnect the biological corridors between the Altos de Cantillana mountains and the River Maipo through the estate’s 5,000 acres of vineyards. “In 2016, we launched our mini hydroelectric plant. This is a renewable energy project to take advantage of the irrigation canal water fed by the Maipo River present in the vineyard to generate electricity for the operation of our winery’s vineyard. It is capable of generating 250 kWh of energy, which represents 60% of the electricity consumption of the winery.”  Photo courtesy of Viña Tarapacá Italy Albino Armani Winery has been making wine since 1607. Today, the family project boasts five privately owned estates composed of 330 hectares of vineyards. The family vineyards are situated in three major Italian wine-growing regions: Veneto, Trentino, and Friuli-Venezia Giulia. Albino has a strong bond with the land, and he says, “Sustainability = Viticulture and Social Responsibility.” He adds, “I believe that for me to possess this concept of sustainability, it is fundamental to belong to a territory and feel it as my own.Consequently, sustainability must be shared by all the players, and its promotion must have an impact and be spread out all over the territory, also involving the various administrations. There has to be a great conversion in farming methods, etc. And the effort must be shared by the entire community. There has to be a widespread notion of defending the ecology, a notion which is concrete and tangible, and which leads to a common result.” All of the Albino Armani vineyards since 2019 have been given the SQNPI certification. This national certification aims to help agricultural ecosystems monitor and reduce environmental impact, reducing the use of synthetic chemicals and rationalizing all agronomic practices such as fertilization and irrigation.  Photo courtesy of Albino Armani Winery Spain Dominio de Punctum is a family-owned winery that dates back to 1905 and is located in the province of Cuenca near central Spain. Oenologist Ruth Fernandez is one of three siblings who own and manage the winery. Ruth got her degree in Viticulture and Enology and is passionate about caring for the land. And so, they have been farming organically since 2005 and became biodynamic in 2010. “Punctum is committed to delivering unique, value-added products. We aim to achieve this through organic and biodynamic agriculture, making wine that stands out not only for the beauty of its aroma or delicacy on the palate but also for being natural and authentic, and free of any chemicals. We take part in a farming philosophy that is aimed towards the future: we understand how to manage nature to deliver top-quality grapes and wines while taking care of the environment by improving it instead of spoiling it. Our wines are organic, biodynamic, and vegan-friendly, following our commitment to the environment and wine lovers around the world.” – Jesús, Ruth, and Cristina Fernández.  Photo courtesy of Punctum Oregon – USA J. Christopher Winery, located in northern Willamette Valley, Oregon, is owned by well-known winemaker Erni Loosen, creator and owner of Germany’s Dr. Loosen and Villa Wolf estates. Following his passion for Pinot Noir, Erni set his sites on J. Christopher, eventually purchasing 40 acres and planting the Appassionata Vineyard. Ernie and his team are proactive when it comes to sustainability. Maintaining healthy soil and vines is a priority. Biodiversity and minimal impact is practiced in the vineyard, and the winery is designed for energy efficiency. The below-ground pre-cast concrete caves use no energy for temperature control – they stay naturally cool and humid, creating the ideal environment for maturing wines. Concerning sustainable farming, this is what they have to say. “In both our Appassionata Vineyard and the Medici Vineyard, which we lease and manage, we farm organically. There are no pesticides or chemical fertilizers used in our vineyards – only organic soil amendments, including compost made from our own pomace. Our winemaking practices generally follow the biodynamic calendar and practices, trusting nature to do much of the work. We strive to minimize waste in our tasting room and all aspects of wine production. All glass, metal, and cardboard are recycled. Even the process water from the winery is filtered, aerated and returned to the earth.”  Photo courtesy of J. Christopher Winery Here is a selection of wines from each of the mentioned wineries.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Viñedos Emiliana Coyam 2018
Grapes for this wine are sourced from the Colchagua Valley and are a blend of eight varieties of organic grapes, with Syrah and Carmenere dominating. It is aged 14 months in 80% French oak (mix of new barrels and second-and-third use), 16% in 2,000- and 5,000-liter foudres, and 4% in concrete eggs. Nose: Ripe red berries, herbs, baking spice, and a touch of earth Palate: Cherry, raspberries, blackberries, juicy plum, and spice. Complex, smooth, and a long finish that is good to the last drop! Alcohol: 14% SRP: $35 Pairings: Roasted or grilled meat and chicken, vegetable casseroles, pizza, or grilled salmon. Viña Tarapacá Gran Reserva 2019 Made with organic grapes, this is a five variety blend with Cabernet Franc and Syrah dominating. Grapes are sourced from the D.O. Maipo Valley. The wine is aged for 12 months in American and French oak barrels (20% new, 80% used), and the remaining 25% of the wine is kept in stainless steel tanks to retain the primary fruit component for the final blend. Nose: Floral, red and dark fruit, cherry, plum, spice, and vanilla. Palate: Rich and smooth with dark cherry, blackberries, plum, baking spice, and pepper. It is beautifully balanced with a long finish. Alcohol: 14% SRP: $20 Pairings: Grilled meat and chicken, seared tuna, aged cheese, or pasta. Albino Armani Prosecco Rosé DOC Extra Dry Millesimato 2020 This sparkling wine is certified sustainable with 90% Glera and 10% Pinot Noir sourced from vineyards in Alta Grave Friulana. It is produced using the Charmat method with second fermentation in tanks for a minimum of 60 days. Nose: Lovely floral, berry, and cherry aromas. Palate: Creamy and fine perlage with red berries, cherry, a hint of apple, and nice acidity. Alcohol: 11% SRP: $15.99 Pairings: Drink as an aperitif or with appetizers, light pasta dishes, mushroom risotto, seafood, or cheese. Albino Armani Pinot Grigio Colle Ara Valdadige TerradeifortiDOC 2020 The grapes for this 100% Pinot Grigio are sourced from certified sustainable vineyards on ancient terraces on the Colle Are, in the southern part of the Adige Valley in the Veneto region. Extended maceration on the skins gives this wine a pink/copper hue. The wine is aged in stainless steel tanks and partially in wood until bottling. Nose: Enticing aromas of floral, stone fruit, tropical fruit, golden delicious apples, and citrus. Palate: A juicy explosion of peach, apricot, lemon, orange zest, vibrant acidity, and minerality entertain the palate. Beautifully structured. Alcohol: 13% SRP: $21.99 Pairings: Enjoy as an aperitif or serve with seafood, shellfish, grilled chicken, vegetable risotto, or charcuterie board. Punctum Petulante Pét Nat White 2020 The Pét-nat line was introduced in 2021 to highlight the winery’s ability to take natural sparkling wines a step further with organic and vegan winemaking processes. The grapes are 50% Sauvignon Blanc and 50% Viognier sourced from organic vineyards in the province of Cuenca near central Spain. Nose: Floral and citrus notes. Palate: Aromas segue onto the palate with green apple, honeydew, and a touch of minerality. Alcohol: 13% SRP: $22 Pairings: Enjoy as an aperitif or serve with light fare. J. Christopher Estate Vineyard Pinot Noir – Rock Blocks Selection 2018 This wine is a three-barrel, limited cuvée selection of organically grown Pinot Noir grapes from the Appassionata vineyard. It is a blend of fruit from the rockiest parts of the vineyard that have thin volcanic clay topsoil over fractured basalt bedrock, which contributes to the wine’s firm structure, brambly fruit, and good texture. It was aged for 18 months in barriques (25% new.) Nose: Dark berries, cherry, wet stone, a touch of floral and spice. Palate: Lush, dark berries with lots of dark cherry, minerality, and spice. Smooth and well structured with a long finish. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $60 Pairings: Grilled meat, chicken or fish, stews, mushroom quiche, or roasted root veggies. I’ll end this article with two quotes. “You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” – Jane Goodall “Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything.” – George Bernard Shaw Please do what you can to keep the earth turning in a positive direction! Until next time… Cheers! Penina This article was originally published to 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. 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 It isn’t often that I find a Pinot Grigio that I really love. But when I do, I will be the first to sing its praises to you.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss And when sipping this wine from a wineglass specially designed for Terlato Pinot Grigio, it’s cause for celebration! The grapes for the Terlato Vineyards Pinot Grigio are grown in the renowned Friuli Colli Orientali DOC region in the far northeastern corner of Italy. These hillside vineyards are in the foothills of the Austrian and Slovenian Alps at an average altitude of 1300ft. Terlato Pinot Grigio is 100% estate-grown grapes selected from vines that are 20 to 30 years old. The grapes are farmed in small blocks, each with different soil compositions and exposures. The soil is mostly marl and schist, low nutrient and rocky. And the warm days and cool nights contribute to the acidity, complexity and character in this terroir-driven wine. All grapes are handpicked and wine production takes place in a state-of-the-art-winery. Riedel, the iconic glassmaker, was inspired by the quality of Terlato Pinot Grigio and crafted a beautiful wine glass to complement this wine. The glass even has “Terlato” etched on the stem.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss The concept of the design is illustrated below.  Photo credit: Riedel Of course, I tasted the wine in both the Riedel wine glass and my standard “go-to” wine glass.  Riedel wine glass on left. Standard wine glass on right. Photo credit: Penny Weiss And yes, there are differences. The Riedel wine glass definitely heightened the aromas and my palate was entertained with a richer and subtler dance through the layers of this wine. That being said, I also enjoyed the wine in my “go-to” glass. However, the Riedel glass brings out the best in this Pinot Grigio.
Terlato Pinot Grigio DOC 2018 with Riedel wine glass Strong aromas of stone fruit, melon, pear and a touch of lemon are an enticing introduction. Layers of peach, apricot, pear and minerality follow a rich and creamy texture on the palate. The finish is quite lengthy with hints of almonds and lemon zest lingering. This Pinot Grigio is beautifully balanced with crisp acidity and expressive fruit. Serve as an aperitif or pair with seafood, light pasta dishes, cheese and spicy Asian cuisine. Alcohol: 13% SRP: $23.99 The Riedel wine glass is only available through a mail-in rebate after the purchase of a bottle of Terlato Pinot Grigio. Whether you drink Terlato Pinot Grigio in the Riedel wine glass or one of your choosing, it will still be an enjoyable and delicious experience! Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com About one year ago I wrote a story and reviewed some impressive wines from Peter Zemmer Winery located in the magical setting of Alto Adige, the northernmost wine region of Italy. Alto Adige is bordered by Austria and Switzerland and is one of Italy’s smallest winegrowing regions. 98% of wines produced here fall into the DOC designation.  Peter Zemmer Winery is situated in the very small community of Cortina that has approximately 600 inhabitants in the village. Snowcapped mountains surround Cortina which encompasses beautiful Alpine villages and scenic valleys.  Village of Cortina The winery was founded in 1928 by Peter’s great uncle and is one of the oldest wineries in Alto Adige. Peter is now the third generation in this family-run winery.  Peter Zemmer Photo credit: Peter Zemmer Winery To quote from my last story, “Alto Adige enjoys a mild Alpine-continental climate with big temperature swings between day and night, averaging 64 degrees during the grape growing stage. There are over 300 days of sun per year with approximately 27 inches of rainfall per year. The Dolomites protect the vineyards from cold winds coming from the north. And to the south, where the land is open, warm air currents waft over the winegrowing vineyards coming from Lake Garda and the Mediterranean. The lowest vineyards are at 750 feet and the highest vineyards reach 3,250 feet above sea level. The average elevation is approximately 1,600 feet. Alto Adige has a broad range of soils such as volcanic porphyry, quartz, limestone, dolomite and sandy marl. The soils combined with the climate make an ideal stage on which to grow high-quality grapes. More than sixty percent of the region’s vineyards are white grape varieties such as Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, Gewürztraminer and Veltliner. Approximately forty percent of the vineyards are red grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Malvasier, Schiava, Lagrein and Moscato Rosa”. So, with that in mind, let’s explore an exceptional Pinot Grigio that arrived at my doorstep recently.  According to the local dialect, “Giatl” means “little property” or “little vineyard” and also refers to a nearby hamlet of the same name. Grapes are selected from individual vineyards in the Giatl site, located in the valley around the center of Cortina. It is comprised of 24 acres of which two-thirds are owned or leased by the Zemmer family.  Giatl Photo credit: Peter Zemmer Winery Extreme chalky soil, sand and shingle dominate the area. In addition to ideal climatic conditions, during the growing season, the grapes benefit from the daily wind ‘Ora’ emanating from the south that refreshes and ventilates the grapes. The grapes are harvested from the best six acres, with vines ranging from 15 to 30 years of age. Fermentation takes place in small French oak casks, making Zemmer one of the very few producers to vinify Pinot Grigio in wood casks. The wine is then aged for 12 months in French oak, followed by six months aging on the lees in stainless steel. An additional six-month rest takes place after bottling.  Pinot Grigio Riserva GIATL Alto Adige DOC 2016 is 100% Pinot Grigio with a soft lemon color. Fruity and floral aromas give way to an exciting palate with a rich and creamy texture. Layers of apples, peach, pear, lemon, honeysuckle, melon and subtle toasty notes are balanced with acidity and a long delectable finish. Drink as an aperitif or pair with fruit, cheese and light fish entrees. Recommended cellaring is 6-8 years. Quite honestly, this is the best Pinot Grigio that I have ever tasted!
Alcohol: 14.5% SRP: $38 I think I’ve found another sunset sipper for the summer! Thank you Peter Zemmer! Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com When last I spoke of “Rubio” and “Blanca” in 2016, Rubio was on his Vespa either running away with a case of wine or pursuing Blanca in the hopes of sharing the wine with her. These whimsical labels certainly conjure up all sorts of scenarios!  Paolo Masi, who is a third-generation winemaker at Renzo Masi winery, makes both of these wines. Fattoria di Basciano is the estate owned by the Masi family since the start of the 1900s. Located in the south of Florence in Tuscany’s Rufina district, the estate sits on a hill overlooking the Argomenna Valley on one side and the right bank of the Sieve river on the other. It is considered one of the best areas for Sangiovese grapes after the “Classico” region.  Renzo Masi winery Photo credit: Renzo Masi The Renzo Masi winery produces a broad spectrum of wines from entry-level to fine wines. Renzo Masi’s motto is “Big enough to be broad-minded. Small enough to care about the details”. Affectionately called “Rubio and “Blanca”, Il Bastardo Sangiovese di Toscana IGT 2017 and La Bastarda Pinot Grigio di Siciliane 2017 are entry-level wines with an impressive “bang for the buck!” La Bastarda Terre Siciliane IGP 2017 is 100% Pinot Grigio from Sicily. Grapes are picked before they lose their natural acidity and become too sweet. The color of the wine is pale yellow with citrus notes, floral, and peach on the nose. My palate was entertained with flavors of grapefruit, lemon, honeysuckle, peach and hints of green apple. This is a fresh and lively wine with good acidity and balance. Serve as an aperitif or pair with shellfish, light pasta, fish and mild cheese. I think Blanca has the right idea to sip this wine while enjoying the beach. Alcohol:12.5% SRP: $9  Il Bastardo Rosso di Toscana IGT 2017 is 100% Sangiovese mostly picked from Tuscany’s Rufina district, but also includes grapes from nearby vineyards. The color of the wine is dark ruby with aromas of cherry, dark berries and hints of spice that segues onto the palate with a touch of fennel and pepper on the finish. This is a medium-bodied wine with soft tannins and a silky mouth-feel. Pair with grilled meat, fowl, pasta and cheese. Alcohol: 13% SRP: $9  I can certainly understand why Rubio might want to abscond with Il Bastardo wine to keep for himself. But being a romantic, I’d like to think that Rubio is in hot pursuit of Blanca and can’t wait to share a bottle of Sangiovese with her. And, although Blanca, a strong and independent woman appears to be quite content sitting by herself with a delicious glass of Pinot Grigio, I think she is longing for the day when Rubio will ride up on his Vespa to join her. What do you think?
Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com It’s that time of year again for outdoor concerts, picnics and pool parties.  We all have our favorite recipes to make for warm weather outings and my picnic baskets are always laden with delicious treats.  Water, soda and juice boxes are easy to pack since they all come in small and convenient sizes. But, how do you pack your wine? There are many ways to transport wine and keep it at the right temperature during outside events when a refrigerator isn’t an option. But carrying a large chest full of ice is never any fun, not to mention a strain on one’s back. Several companies make thermoses that can easily hold the contents of a chilled 750mil wine bottle and will keep it at that temperature for many, many hours! There is no need for corkscrews, just pack the wine glasses. The great thing about this type of thermos is that it also keeps liquids hot for over 12 hours. Great for hot chocolate when ice skating in the wintertime!  I’m also a big fan of insulated wine totes. There are a variety of sizes and styles to choose from, including some with special compartments and features. The one that is pictured below has room for two wine bottles, comes with a corkscrew, a side pocket and an adjustable shoulder strap for easy carrying. And yes, the wine stays cool. It is also a great way to transport wine to a friend’s home. When driving, I secure the wine tote with a seatbelt! My advice is to go online and explore the options!  Another alternative is wine in a can! They are easy to transport and are available in sparkling, red, white, and rosé. These single-serving wines usually come with pop-up tops, so no can opener is needed. I recently received a four-pack sample of Stella Pinot Grigio. This was the first time that I tried wine from a can. And yes, I was rather dubious!   Stella Pinot Grigio Terre Siciliane IGT 2016 is made in Sicily. The estate was founded in 1986 and the winemaker is Danilo Chini. The grapes are harvested from mature and younger vineyards planted between 1982 and 1995. The climate is Mediterranean and the soil is clay. The wine goes through a short fermentation (10 days) in all stainless steel. It is 100% Pinot Grigio and the color is golden yellow. The nose offers light fruit with hints of pear and citrus. This is a crisp, light-bodied wine with pear, citrus, stone fruit and a hint of floral on the palate. The finish is zesty and surprisingly refreshing! Alcohol: 11.5% SRP: $13 for a four-pack. Each can holds 250mil.  Since this is the only wine in a can that I have tried so far, I will have to venture out and pick up a few more varieties to try before passing my final verdict on “wine in a can”. However, I can in good faith, recommend the above wine. The four-pack actually gives you more wine than a 750mil bottle of wine! |
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