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Halloween has come and gone, which for many, now signals the onset of holiday decorating, organizing festivities, and planning menus. Over this past week, I have begun receiving requests asking questions such as “What is a light red wine?” and “What goes best with a particular meal and/or dessert?” So, in keeping with the holiday “spirit,” I am re-posting an article I published two years ago that will hopefully guide you through this holiday season and beyond!  What once seemed a simple task of putting together a traditional holiday menu has become more challenging these days, with dietary restrictions and food lifestyle choices to consider. Food allergies, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free diets must be taken into account, and juggling all these food requirements can quickly turn a holiday table into a smorgasbord. And adding wine pairings to accommodate all of this can be pretty daunting!  So, here are a few wine varietals to consider that will pair well with a myriad of dishes and alleviate the pressure of buying every style of wine in the store! White Wines  Photo credit: Celina Albertz Look for white wines with higher acidity and lower alcohol. These wines will pair well with traditional fare that tends to be rich in fat and salt, and will also complement non-traditional cuisine, especially spicy food. The acidity will tone down the fat and salt, and the lower alcohol won’t compete with or distort the palate while enjoying spicy food. I recommend: Sauvignon Blanc is light and crisp, has high acidity, and is an excellent choice when serving a variety of food. Dry Riesling is another good choice. It is fruity, acidic, and crisp. Chenin Blanc (dry) is aromatic, with vibrant acidity and is slightly sweet. It pairs well with most food. Red Wines  Photo credit: Kelsey Knight Red wines shouldn’t overpower a meal; they should enhance it. Light-bodied red wines that are fruit-forward, lower in alcohol, and not oaky will complement an extensive range of cuisine without dominating the flavors of most dishes. I recommend: Pinot Noir is very food-friendly, has bright acidity, is fruity, and is a favorite at holiday meals. French Gamay (Beaujolais) is light, dry, and fruit-forward. Red Zinfandel is fruit-forward and fuller-bodied than Pinot Noir but still light and can cut through spicy, sweet, and bitter flavors. Sparkling Wines  Sparkling wines are festive but not only consumed on special occasions. When it comes to food pairing, these wines are so accommodating many consumers are opting for the bubbly at mealtime instead of still wines. They are easy to drink and pair well with just about everything! The best sparkling wines to pour for your holiday table should be dry or extra dry but not sweet. There are many options and styles available. Sparkling wines are made using either the traditional method, with the second fermentation taking place in the bottle, or the tank (Charmat) method, with the second fermentation occurring in a steel tank. Sparkling wines are produced worldwide and go by different names depending on country/region/appellation of origin. You won’t go wrong with any of these sparkling wines. Champagne and Crémant – France Sekt – Germany Cava – Spain Prosecco and Franciacorta – Italy Rosé Wines  Photo credit: Penny Weiss The expression “Rosé all day” is trending, and yes, this pink wine is popular and has its place at holiday time as an aperitif or with a meal. It is food-friendly and pairs well with many flavors, spices, and textures. Look for dry rosés that are fruity, crisp, and refreshing, such as Provencal rosé, or try dry rosés from Spain, Portugal, and the USA.
Happy pairing! Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com Since 1925, the Marenco family has been producing wine.  Photo courtesy of Marenco. It began with Michele Marenco, whose dream was to make wine from his vineyard in the heart of the Bagnario Valley, situated in Strevi, in southern Piedmont, and part of the Monferrato wine region in northwestern Italy. Michele’s son, Giuseppe Marenco, who understood the territory’s potential, followed in his father's footsteps and continued to make quality wine from indigenous grapes. He built the winery in 1956, located in Strevi, and acquired the best land he could find to grow grapes. Today, Giuseppe’s daughters, Michela with her husband Giovanni Costa, Patrizia (winemaker), and Doretta, carry on the family tradition with passion, enthusiasm, and dedication. They supervise and control every step of the production process, from grape to glass.  Marenco sisters. Photo courtesy of Marenco. The Marenco family presides over 160 acres of vineyards, focused on practicing sustainability while maintaining traditional growing systems in the vineyard and optimizing the quality of the grapes. In order to help maintain quality control, all grapes are harvested by hand. They grow Moscato, Barbera, Brochetto, and other indigenous grapes from Monferrato, with vineyards in Strevi, Cassine, and Fontanile Castel Boglione.  Photo courtesy of Marenco. I recently received a tasty selection of some of their still wines.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Carialoso Monferrato Bianco DOC 2020 This wine is made with 100% Caricalasino, an ancient local variety that Patrizia Marenco rediscovered in the Strevi area and reproduced, beginning with 3,000 plants. Also known as white Barbera, the name Caricalasino means “load up the donkey” in Italian, and is a nod to the past when donkeys were the only means of transporting the grapes from hilly vineyards to the wineries. Usually blended with other grapes, Marenco was the first winery in Italy to produce a monovarietal wine. The first vintage was in 1996. “Carialoso” is the name of the grape in the Piemontese dialect. This wine was aged six months in stainless steel tanks and Oak barrels and then bottle-aged for three months prior to release.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Beautiful aromas of white flowers, white stone fruit, herbs, citrus, and minerality. Palate: Fresh and inviting with vibrant acidity, sapidity, peach, apricot, and a hint of citrus, with zest and pepper on the finish. Alcohol: 12.5% SRP: $24.99 Pairing suggestions: Grilled white meat, seared tuna, porcini risotto or sip as an aperitif. Albarossa Piemonte DOC 2021 The Albarossa grape is a cross between Nebbiolo and Barbera, two main Piedmont grapes. Albarossa was developed in 1938 by Italian enologist Professor Giovanni Dalmasso. However, it wasn’t until 2001 that Albarossa was recognized as a quality grape of Piedmont, which can now be used in Monferrato Rosso DOC. This 100% Albarossa was harvested from the vineyard in the Strevi hills. After fermentation in stainless steel tanks, the wine is aged 18 months in large Oak barrels. It is then bottle-aged for six months before release.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Violets, red fruit, baking spice, herbs, and cherry pie, Palate: Well structured, lively, and balanced with soft tannins and acidity. Lush notes of red fruit, plum, cherry, anise, and warm, spicy herbs and pepper. Alcohol: 14.5% SRP: $29.99 Pairing suggestions: Roasted or grilled red and white meats, stews, aged cheese, and charcuterie. Bassina Barbera D’Asti DOCG 2022 This wine takes its name from the Cascina Bassina, a farm in Fontanile (Asti). "Bassina.” short in Italian, was the nickname given to the lady who originally owned the Cascina. She understood the potential of Barbera in this area and began planting Barbera grapes on the best exposed sides of the hills. Barbera is the most widely planted grape in Piedmont. It is a juicy, fruit-forward wine. The grapes for this 100% Barbera were sourced from Bassina farm vineyard in Fontanile. After fermentation in stainless steel tanks, the wine was aged in concrete vats for nine months and then bottle-aged for three months.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Floral, fresh red fruit, baking spice, and balsamic.
Palate: Aromas segue onto thepalate with bright, ripe berries, spice, sour cherry and a hint of dried plum. Alcohol: 14% SRP: $20.99 Pairing suggestions: Appetizers, pasta, grilled meat, chicken, and simple fish dishes. The logo of the ducks on the bottle label was inspired by the wild ducks that populate the lake on the Bassina Estate. Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com It never ceases to amaze me that I can visit countries worldwide and converse in real-time with friends and family or meet with wine producers through the wonders of technology. Not long ago, I traveled to northern Italy via a Zoom meeting with brothers Aldo and Paolo Rametta to learn about the Romagna wine region and their two estates and a tasting of several wines they produce.  Aldo and Paolo. Photo courtesy of Poggio della Dogana. The slopes of Romagna nestled in the eastern part of the Emilia-Romagna wine region in northern Italy are a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Romagna is a buffered zone between the Apennine mountains and the Adriatic Sea and is known for its rich and fertile terroir. The Emilia-Romagna region, with its proximity to Tuscany, Lombardy, Veneto, and the Adriatic Sea has a rich history of wine production dating back to the seventh century BC and is considered among the older Italian wine regions. It’s capital is Bologna.  Aldo and Paolo were born in Louisiana, and although they grew up in the United States and Switzerland, they spent most of their lives abroad. Their passion for the environment, traditional winemaking, and family roots and history led them to Romagna and the purchase of two very distinct wine estates. Their main goal is to produce “a gentle expression of high quality from single vineyards.” Poggio della Dogana is the first wine project begun by the Rametta brothers. They purchased the estate in 2017, located in Terra del Sole. It includes a vineyard that is more than twenty years old which was already in organic conversion at the time. The vineyards cover a total of 20 hectares on a hilly area between Castrocaro Terme and Brisighella, at an altitude between 180m and 300m, with different soil characteristics in each area. The focus of the estate is representative of the Romagna territory, which grows Sangiovese and Albana, a white grape. Aldo said, “Albana is a white wine but quite peculiar for a white variety. We joke that it is red wine dressed in white. Its thick skins release tannins and complexity.”  Photo courtesy of Poggio della Dogana. Ronchi di Castelluccio is in Modigliana, in the heart of the Sangiovese di Romagna lands. The Rametta brothers acquired this historic estate in 2020. There are approximately 30 hectares, with vineyards at an altitude between 250 and 500 meters above sea level. Biodiversity and sustainability are practiced in the single vineyards. “The historic vines have been restored, no plant has been torn down and the old growing systems have been introduced.” Except for Sauvignon Blanc, all the crus are 100% Sangiovese grapes.  Photo courtesy of Ronchi di Castelluccio. Here are four wines we tasted together (samples I received prior to the meeting.)  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Ronchi di Castelluccio Sottovento di Castelluccio IGT 2021 Produced from a single vineyard, this 100% Sauvignon Blanc was hand-harvested at an altitude of 390 meters. Soil is marl and calcareous sandstone. Fermentation took place in stainless steel and the wine was aged nine months in wood and a minimum of nine months in bottle.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: White flowers, citrus, white stone fruit, saltiness. Palate: Aromas segue onto the palate with fresh and lively notes, and sapidity lingering on the finish. Alcohol: 13% SRP: $40 Poggio della Dogana Belladama Romagna DOCG Albana Secco 2022 This 100% organic Albana was hand-harvested from 20-year-old vineyards at 200m and 300m altitude. Fermentation took place in stainless steel vats, and was aged for ten months in concrete and a minimum of four months in bottle. The typical signature of this wine is its intense golden color, which becomes more intense as it ages.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: White flowers, citrus, peach, apricot, and herbs. Palate: Lively acidity, fresh, dry, good structure, and a touch of minerality. A trace of tropical fruit and citrus zest linger on the finish. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $30 Ronchi di Castelluccio Buco del Prete di Castellucio DOC Sangiovese Modigliana 2021 From the 300m alt. single vineyard of the same name, Buco del Prete, this 100% Sangiovese was hand-harvested and fermented in steel. Aging took place in large French oak barrels for 12 months and at least six months in bottle. This vineyard is the lowest altitude vineyard on the estate at Modigliana.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Dark fruit, forest floor, baking spice, and a hint of lavender. Palate: Rich dark fruit, dark berries, black cherry, fennel, lively acidity, smooth tannins, and a touch of spice on a long finish. Alcohol: 13% SRP: $40 Ronchi di Castelluccio Ronco della Simia DOC Sangiovese Modigliana 2020 The grapes for this 100% Sangiovese were sourced from Modigliana, in a vineyard restored in 2019 that was originally planted in 1975. It is a single vineyard with the highest elevation for a Sangiovese vineyard. (370 meters alt) Fermentation took place in steel and small oak vats and then was aged for ten months in Allier, Vosges, low-toasted tonneaux, and barriques. It then remained in bottle for a minimum of 14 months.  Nose: Violets, red fruit, earthy, and baking spice. Palate: Beautiful texture and mouthfeel. Sapidity is present. Juicy, meaty fruit, dark cherry, smooth tannins, sweet spice, and a long finish. Alcohol: 13.5 % SRP: $140 In addition to my palate being entertained, the Rametta brothers had lots of information and stories to share. Their passion, love, and respect for the environment and history were palpable. They have piqued my interest in visiting Romagna and immersing myself in the land, culture, and wine! “There is no future without respect for history: we will be brave and let ourselves be driven by dreams and emotions.” Aldo & Paolo Rametta  Photo courtesy of Ronchi di Castelluccio. Until next time…
Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com Bastille Day is celebrated in France every July 14th, and in many French-speaking regions worldwide, including the USA. The French also refer to this day as “Le Quatorze Juillet” (the 14th of July) or “La Fête Nationale” (the National Day)  Image courtesy of National Geographic On July 14th, 1789. a group of revolutionaries stormed the Bastille prison in Paris, marking the start of the French Revolution. The Bastille was a symbol of the tyrannical rule of the Bourbon monarchy. Without going into a detailed history lesson, suffice it to say King Louis XVI and his wife Marie Antoinette were overthrown, ending the “Ancien Régime.” The Bastille prison was torn down by the order of France’s new revolutionary government, with the last stone removed in 1790. King Louis XVI was publicly beheaded on January 21st, 1793, making him the only French king to ever be executed. Marie Antoinette met the same fate at the guillotine on October 16th, 1793.  Image courtesy of National Endowment for the Humanities Although it was a violent time, Bastille Day is celebrated in France with parades, fireworks, food, wine, and dancing. And even though I never need a reason to pour a glass of wine, it’s a perfect time to open a bottle of French wine and toast Bastille Day! Here are three wines that will tickle your palate on Bastille Day or any day of the year!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss C’EST LA VIE Pinot Noir-Syrah Pays d’Oc IGP 2020 This brand was created by Maison Albert Bichot. The Bichot family was established in Burgundy in 1350. Founded in 1831, Domaines Albert Bichot currently owns six estates throughout Burgundy. This wine is a blend of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Syrah, with grapes sourced from the Languedoc-Roussillon. It is vinified and finished in stainless steel.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Floral notes, red berries, and a hint of spice. Palate: Vibrant and smooth with strawberry, raspberry, ripe cherry, and a dollop of spice. Alcohol: 13% SRP: $13 Pairing suggestions: Enjoy on its own or with grilled fish, meat, cheese, and light bites. Slightly chilled on a hot day, this wine is quite refreshing. Trenel Beaujolais Cuvée Rochebonne AOP 2021 Maison Trenel was founded in 1928 by Henri Claudius Trénel and is in the heart of the South Burgundy and Beaujolais wine regions. The grapes for this 100% Gamay are sourced from the regional appellation “Beaujolais,” east of the “Pierres Dorées” area, on three parcels east-oriented and facing the Mont Blanc. The wine is aged for five months in cement tanks and is unfined and lightly filtered before bottling.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Fruity aromas, red berries, cherry, spice. Palate: Aromas segue onto the palate with crisp and juicy notes of strawberry, raspberry, cherry, and a touch of pepper lingering on the finish. Alcohol: 12.5% SRP: $21 Pairing suggestions: Soft cheese, cheese tarts, quiche, fish stew, seared tuna, and roasted chicken. La Perrière Mégalithe Sancere 2016 Saget La Perrière is a family-run company in the Loire Valley, France. With 890 acres of vines in the finest appellations and six estates, it carries on the tradition of nine generations dedicated to producing fine wines. The estate’s 106 acres of Sancerre vineyards (Sauvignon Blanc grapes) are in the Bannay, Verdigny, Saint-Satur, Crézancy, and Vinon districts. Megalithe is the icon wine of Saget La Perrière. The first vintage was produced in 1998. The goal of Megalithe is to showcase the beauty of aged Sauvignon Blanc. The grapes are hand-harvested, and “after a gentle pressing, 40% of the must is fermented in new 300-liter oak barrels from Allier. The wine stays in barrel for eight to nine months, and the lees are stirred regularly to give the wine weight and complexity. To preserve the character of Sauvignon, the other 60% of the must is vinified and matured with particular care in steel vats.”  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Elegant and complex aromas of honeysuckle, apples, apricots, stone fruit, vanilla, and a touch of flint. Palate: Rich texture with a beautiful balance of salinity and ripe fruit. This wine has so much character! Alcohol: 12.5% SRP: $45 Pairing suggestions: Enjoy as an aperitif or with lobster, seafood, goat cheese, and salads. Until next time…  Joyeux jour de la bastille!
Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com When one thinks of wines from the western part of the United States, in all likelihood, California comes to mind first. However, the Pacific Northwest is known for its fine wine production from Oregon and Washington. These northern states benefit from warm days and cool nights, resulting in ripe fruit and fresh acidity in the wines. Oregon is known for its production of Pinot Noir, and Washington has a reputation for its fine Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Riesling, and Chardonnay. Andrew Family Vineyards is nestled in the picturesque Horse Heaven Hills AVA in south-central Washington, a part of the larger Columbia Valley. Horse Heaven Hills is one of Washington’s warmer growing regions and is ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon. Vineyards are planted on south-facing slopes, which provides ample sun exposure.  Photo courtesy of Andrew Family Vineyards  Horse Heaven Hills AVA in red. Jeff Andrews is the owner and third generation of this family-run business. With their first brand, Trothe, receiving accolades since 2021, the team has released their second brand this spring, Sagebreaker, honoring their great-grandfather, George Smith, who tirelessly and with great difficulty broke ground and cleared sagebrush to make way for cultivation. Winemaker, Ray McKee, part of the Trothe team, has captured the essence of over 80 years of family history with Sagebreaker. While the Trothe brand is focused on single varietals, Sagebreaker focuses on classic blends, incorporating the notable terroir of Horse Heaven Hills with its rich granite soil. I received three samples of their inaugural vintage release of Sagebreaker, and I’m delighted to share my thoughts with you!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Sagebreaker White Blend 2023
This is a classic Rhône white blend of Viognier, Roussanne, and Marsanne, all certified sustainable estate fruit. “Each variety is grown on a parcel of their vineyard best suited to its defining varietal characteristics—Viognier and Roussanne on cooler, lowland blocks and Marsanne on a warm hilltop.” The grapes were picked, pressed, and vinified together for a co-fermentation. Nose: Fragrant white flowers, stone fruit, and apricot. Palate: It is fresh and vibrant with notes of peach, apricot, honey, citrus, and minerality. It has great texture, and is a winner in my books! Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $48 Pairing suggestions: Enjoy as an aperitif, or serve with ceviche, shrimp scampi, grilled poultry dishes, or salads. Sagebreaker Rhône Blend 2021 This wine is a classic Rhône blend of Grenache, Syrah, and a dash of Mourvèdre harvested from certified sustainable estate vineyards. After fermentation in Italian concrete, the wine was aged for 18 months in new 100% French oak. Nose: Red fruit aromas, bramble fruit, plum, and minerality, Palate: Strawberries, raspberry, plum, baking spice, crushed stone, and dark chocolate on a long finish. Smooth tannins and well balanced with acidity. A bright, spicy, earthy, and well-structured wine. Alcohol: 15% SRP: $68 Pairing suggestions: Grilled meat, poultry, game, or tuna. Charcuterie board Sagebreaker Bordeaux Blend 2021 This is a beautiful blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Merlot, all sourced from certified sustainable estate vineyards. The wine was fermented in a mix of Italian and French concrete to preserve its natural freshness. It was then aged for 22 months in new French oak barrels. Nose: Rose petals with a blend of dark berries, baking spice, and herbs. Palate: Aromas segue onto the palate with bursts of dark berries, plum, sweet cherry tobacco, and dark chocolate. Beautifully balanced, rich, complex, and impressive! Alcohol: 14.5% SRP: $84 Pairing suggestions: Beef bourguignon, vegetable stew, roasted lamb, seared tuna, or mushroom risotto. The prices may be steep, but they are worth every sip! Until next time… Cheers, Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com It’s time to wine and dine! So, fire up the grill and toss on your favorite meat or tuna steak. I have two delicious reds to pair with your feast! A few months ago, I reviewed a delectable Sauvignon Blanc from Oberon Wines, part of the Michael Mondavi Family portfolio based in Napa Valley, CA. The head winemaker for Oberon Wines is Tony Coltrin, a lifelong resident of Napa. With over a half-century of winemaking experience, Tony knows every expression of the valley and, specifically, which sub-zones produce exceptional classic Bordeaux grapes, including the Paso Robles wine region.  Tony Coltrin Photo courtesy of Oberon Wines Tony’s enduring relationships with growers throughout Napa Valley are the very essence of Oberon’s quality and consistency. Tony selects top-quality fruit year after year from the finest wine-growing regions throughout Napa Valley and Paso Robles.  Photo courtesy of Oberon Wines A short time ago, I received samples of Oberon’s Napa Valley Merlot and Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon, two noteworthy wines.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Oberon Napa Valley Merlot 2021 The grapes for this Merlot were sourced from Napa’s renowned Oakville district. Oakville lies on the valley floor in the heart of Napa. The deeper, well-drained alluvial soils in the vineyards, along with the perfect balance of cool mornings and warm afternoons, make this the ideal location for growing Bordeaux varietals. In addition, Tony sources Syrah and Zinfandel in small lots specifically for this blend as they merge well with the Merlot and bring out the rich character of this expressive Oakville fruit. It is aged 12 months in French oak barrels.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Ripe berries, plum, and baking spice. Palate: Dark cherry, strawberry, and red plum, with a hint of cocoa and mild tannins. It is a vibrant and nicely layered wine. Alcohol: 13.9% SRP: $28 Pairing suggestions: Grilled meat, seared tuna, porcini risotto, and grilled veggies. Oberon Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 Tony created this Cabernet Sauvignon by sourcing grapes from a few distinct vineyards in Paso Robles, including Santa Margherita Ranch, originally planted by the Mondavis, and the San Juan Creek Ranch. The blend for this wine is 85.7% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Petite Sirah, and 5.3% proprietary red field blends. Tony said, “Layering fruit from these distinct Paso Robles ranches provides for a wine with greater complexity and a more dynamic flavor profile.” This wine was aged for 12 months in 45% new French oak.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Floral, red berries, plum, herbs, and baking spice. Palate: Ripe dark berries, bing cherry, and a touch of thyme. Vanilla, dark chocolate, and candied fruit linger on a long finish. Alcohol: 13.7% SRP: $25 Pairing suggestions: Just about anything charred, seared or grilled will work! This wine is also a great sipper before or after a meal. Happy grilling and happy sipping!  Photo credit: Paul Hermann Until next time…
Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com It is truly remarkable how a simple sip of wine can transport me to a different place and time. In 2022, I traveled to Alentejo, Portugal, with a small group of fellow wine writers. We had the pleasure of visiting 11 wineries, and meeting engaging winemakers. We tasted memorable wines, indulged in the local cuisine, and soaked up this small region’s rich history and culture.  Alentejo Photo credit: Penny Weiss I wrote many articles about Alentejo before my visit and several articles after returning. So, instead of repeating myself about its eight sub-regions, terroir, and grapes, please click “Alentejo” on the Categories list to read about this fascinating region, its wineries, and grapes. Or jump to this article for a quick introduction. thewineknitter.com/the-journal/alentejo-a-magical-wine-region While in Alentejo, we visited the estate of Herdade Do Esporão, located in the Reguengos de Monsaraz DOC sub-region.   Herdade do Easporão Photo credit: Penny Weiss Herdade do Esporão is one of the largest wine producers in Alentejo. They have over 450 hectares of vineyards with 194 grape varieties planted on the estate, of which 37 are in full production. In addition to the wine vineyards, there are four types of olive trees in the 80-hectare olive groves, along with orchards and kitchen gardens. All farming uses organic methods and integrated production. They began the transition to organic farming in 2008, and 11 years later received their organic certification.  Herdade do Esporão Photo courtesy of Creative Palate. I recently received Esporão Reserva Red and White samples, which I also enjoyed tasting while visiting the estate. (I took both photos 11/2022.) Although the samples are different vintages with new label designs, these wines evoke fond memories of a great trip!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Esporão Reserva White 2022 DOC Alentejo This wine is considered the flagship wine of the Esporão Alentejo estate. Grapes are harvested from 18 to 27-year-old grapevines in certified organic vineyards with soil of granite/schist base and loam/clay structure. It is a blend of Antão Vaz, Arinto, and Roupeiro grapes. It is aged six months in stainless steel tanks and new American and French oak barrels.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Hints of white flowers, honeydew, white stone fruit, vanilla, and toasted notes. Palate: This wine is fresh and vibrant with a touch of tropical notes. Honeydew, pineapple, minerality, and lemon zest are playful on the palate. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $23 Pairing suggestions: Enjoy as an aperitif or with salads, grilled chicken, and sushi. Esporão Reserva Red DOC Alentejo 2021 Herdade Do Esporão first introduced this wine in 1985. It is a blend of Alicante Bouschet, Trincadeira, Touriga Nacional, Aragon, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The grapes are sourced from vineyards with organic farming certification and vines averaging 20 years of age. This wine is aged 12 months in new (20%) and old (80%) American oak and French oak barrels, and then a minimum of six months in the bottle.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Violet notes, dark berries, plum, a hint of cherry, baking spice, and pepper. Palate: Aromas dance onto the palate with spice and slightly chewy tannins on the finish. It is very drinkable now, but I used my Coravin and look forward to tasting this again in one year. Alcohol: 14% SRP: $23 Pairing suggestions: Serve with grilled meat, pasta, grilled or sautéed veggies, or burgers and fries. The next time you want to travel to a particular wine region, start with a glass of wine and let your palate begin the journey! Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com Several years ago, I wrote an article about Jean-Luc Colombo Winery. Recently, I received two of their wines, which sparked a desire to revisit the winery and its story.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Jean-Luc Colombo winery is located in the appellation of Cornas in the northern Rhône Valley, France. Cornas is the smallest appellation in the Rhône Valley, consisting of approximately 300 acres, and is dedicated to producing only red wine from the Syrah grape. The Mediterranean climate and decomposed granite soils contribute to the richness and character of these wines.  Cornas is in orange. In addition to producing wine from vineyards in the northern and southern Rhône Valley, Jean-Luc Colombo also produces wine from vineyards in Languedoc and Provence. As a child, Jean-Luc spent considerable time helping his mother in her restaurant in Marseille, where he was always surrounded by good food and wine. Growing up with a successful restaurateur, Jean-Luc developed a discerning palate for wine. With a passion for science, Jean-Luc received a pharmacy degree and combined his love of Syrah and science by creating a wine laboratory in 1984 with his wife Anne, Centre Oenologique des Cotes du Rhone. Jean-Luc quickly established himself as a wine consultant for wineries throughout the Rhône Valley, including many top domaines. The Colombo family purchased their first vineyard in the early 1980s, planted with old Syrah vines, overlooking the village of Cornas, and fulfilled Jean-Luc’s dream of becoming a winemaker and viticulturist. In 1987, he produced the first vintage of Cornas “Les Ruchets,” which became the flagship cuvée of the domain.  Photo courtesy of Jean-Luc Colombo Winery Their daughter Laure is also passionate about wine. She received a Bachelor’s degree in Viticulture and Oenology in Bordeaux (and interned at Château Haut-Brion for one year). She followed it up with a Master’s degree in Oenology from the University of Montpellier. Laure also experimented with some vinifications in the southern hemisphere. At this point, she told her father and mother that she was ready, and she joined the family estate in 2010 as their winemaker.  Colombo family. Photo courtesy of Jean-Luc Colombo winery. Bees are an integral part of the estate. The Colombo family began harvesting grapes and honey with their first vineyard, Les Ruchets, which translates to “the beehives” in French. In addition to time spent producing outstanding wines, the Colombo family also pours their hearts and souls into maintaining a safe haven and ensuring the longevity of the bee colonies. Through education, the elimination of harsh pesticides, and the planting of nutritious flora, the honey bees live in a fruitful and biodiverse landscape, contributing to the health of the grapes and terroir.  Interesting facts: 1) Honey bees pollinate more than 90% of flowering crops – including many of the fruit and food items we eat – so they play a vital role in our food supply. 2) Honey bee colonies typically consist of only one queen bee, several hundred drones (male bees), and thousands of adult female worker bees. The colony also contains developing eggs, larvae, and pupae. Above photos of bee colonies and Laure are courtesy of the winery. Due to environmental factors, the Colombo family began to see a depletion in the honey bees’ local and global population, causing Colony Collapse Disorder. This disorder threatens bees’ crucial role in agriculture, as it causes adult bees to abandon their hives and fly off to die. The cause of this disorder is unknown, and it has spread to over half of the U.S. states, with similar reports in parts of Europe, Brazil, and Canada. So, the Colombo family, together with their U.S. importer, Taub Selections, united two great passions—winemaking and beekeeping—to develop the Bee Helpful Program. For every purchase of a bottle of Jean-Luc Colombo’s Les Abeilles (meaning The Bees in French) Côtes du Rhône white or red, a donation is made to the UC Davis Department of Entomology in support of their research to help restore healthy honey bee colonies.  Jean-Luc said, “Living in the middle of the vineyards in Cornas, we have always made it a point to honor and preserve this environment and to work in harmony with nature. It is essential that vines, insects, and animals of all hairs and feathers coexist and thrive. For many years, “organic” methods have been applied to the vine, and Laure Colombo launched in 2012 the organic certification process for our estate (officially called ECOCERT in Europe), effective since the 2015 vintage.” Let’s taste some wine! Jean-Luc Colombo Côtes Du Rhône Blanc “Les Abeilles” 2022 This delightful wine is a blend of traditional white southern Rhône grapes, 80% Claudette, and 20% Roussane. The grapes are hand-picked and fermented in stainless steel tanks. The Claudette is aged in tanks, and the Roussanne matures in two to five-year-old oak barrels for six months.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Floral, white stone fruit, citrus, apple, and a touch of minerality. Palate: Crisp and refreshing with notes of peach, pear, and sweet lemon on the finish. Alcohol: 13% SRP: $18.99 Pairing suggestions: Seafood, grilled chicken, quiche, and a summer pasta salad. Jean-Luc Colombo Côtes Du Rhône Rouge “Les Abeilles” 2021 AOC This wine is 60% Granache, 30% Syrah, and 10% Mourvèdre. The grapes are grown on 25-year-old vines in the AOC Côtes du Rhône appellation and hand-picked at harvest. Aging takes place in stainless steel tanks for ten months before bottling.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Ripe red fruit, violets, purple plum, and a touch of licorice. Palate: Silky with notes of anise, dark berries, dark cherry, and a dollop of spice. Alcohol: 13% SRP: $18.99 Pairing suggestions: Jean-Luc Colombo says, “This wine is food-friendly and pairs with everything from roasted chicken, lamb, pork, charcuterie, to assorted cheeses – best enjoyed with a spoonful of honey.” Enjoy these wines while supporting the Bee Helpful Program. It’s a win-win situation!  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 A short time ago, through Zoom, I, and several other writers spent a fascinating hour with James Marshall Lockyer, winemaker at Tenuta Licinia, and 3rd generation of this family-owned winery.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Tenuta Licinia is a small winery at the foothills of the Tuscan Apennines near the village of Lucignano in the province of Arezzo. Today, the property has 60 hectares of woods, 6.5 hectares of vineyards, and 3 hectares of olive groves.  Photo courtesy of Tenuta Licinia In the early 1970s, James’s grandfather, Jacques de Liedekerke, who lived in Belgium, bought the property with an abandoned farmhouse and small vineyard. Jacque took on the restoration of the farmhouse, but as James said, “For the first 20-30 years, my grandfather really didn’t do much with the vineyard. He enjoyed wine but was not knowledgeable in winemaking. He grew up with old-school ideas of winemaking and didn’t understand Tuscan soil, geology, or what made a vineyard good or bad.” Over the years, Jacque learned more about the vineyard and subsoils and thought it might be worth replanting. So, in 2006, Jacques decided to replant the Sasso Di Fata vineyard as a retirement project. Because he was French-Belgium, and drank Cabernet Sauvignon, he decided to plant it. It took many years of tests, research, and many attempts, but by 2019, the wines began to assume the vineyard’s identity. In 2020, James arrived at Tenuta Licinia and took over what his grandfather had begun. James explained, “At the time, I was finishing my doctorate at Oxford University, focusing on foundations of ethics and sensorial value. About winemaking, James said, “I am semi-self-taught and guided by very good mentors and professionals. In addition, I did a few internships.” His doctoral studies proved to be helpful as a winemaker. “It motivated me to think carefully about what kind of wine I want to make, what truly matters in the wine I make, and what types of properties are relevant to making a high-quality wine.”  Screen shot of Zoom tasting with James. Photo: Penny Weiss What his grandfather had planted, half of the vineyard was decent, and the other half was great. For James, this introduced one of the many puzzles they’ve worked on for the last several years: understanding Tuscan subsoils. James said, “One of the difficulties with Tuscan subsoil is that it changes very quickly, every 30 -40 meters. As part of their project, they focus on identifying small and abandoned parcels and bring them back to high-quality production. “We are developing Sangiovese on the parcels we now find.” Regarding his grandfather’s planting in 2006, on one side of the hill is Sasso Di Fata, and on the other side of the hill is the Montepolli vineyard. James divided the vineyard based on the subsoils. James said that Sasso Di Fata has much more beautiful subsoil than Montepolli. James stated, “Sassa Di Fata subsoil is lime-slate, and the slate is paper thin. Slate is viable and roots can go right through it very quickly. This soil contributes to a much more beautiful grain of tannins, sophisticated aromas, and floral direction. Slate can give a savory/saline finality to the wine.' The Montepolli subsoil is a clay-limestone plot with a Merlot base. It is too “clayish” with certain defects. The tannins can be quite wide and massive, and the aromas and minerals can be quite reduced on this soil type.” James went on to say, “I have an old-school subsoil view, that subsoil is very central to making great wines. It’s the physical structure underground that is key. In addition to the soil, it is the drainage and temperature underground combined with root penetration, which is important.” We tasted three Tenuta Licinia wines. All the grapes are picked by taste, not by analysis, for the best maturity. In addition, the winery has been certified organic since the vines were planted, and they follow a biodynamic program in the vineyard.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Sasso Di Fata IGT Toscana Rosso 2019 This wine is produced in the clos style, with the grapes sourced from a small vineyard with a specific subsoil, and therefore, the wine is only produced in extremely small quantities. The 2019 Sasso di Fata is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (70%) Cabernet Franc (25%) and Petit Verdot (5%). It is aged 16 months in second passage French oak Tonneau (500L).  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Fragrant rose petals, red berries, and spice. Palate: Beautifully balanced with red fruit, spice, licorice, and a hint of mint. Gentle tannins and a dance of saline and minerality lead to a long finish. Alcohol: 14.5% Montepolli IGT Toscana Rosso 2019 This wine is produced in the clos style, with the grapes coming from a small vineyard with a specific clay-limestone subsoil, and therefore, the wine is only produced in small quantities. This is the first vintage. The wine is a blend of 47% Merlot, 22% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Cabernet Franc, 12% Petit Verdot. It is aged 15 months in second passage French oak Tonneau. James did the aging and blending for this wine.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Strawberry, cherry, anise, floral, and a touch of balsamic. Palate: Strawberry segues onto the palate with soft cherry notes, herbs, baking spice, and minerality lingering on the finish. Alcohol: 14.5% Sasso Di Fata IGT Toscana Rosso 2021 This wine was bottled just a few months ago and a treat to sample. The 2021 is James’s first vintage, and it’s a winner! It is a blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, and 10% Cabernet Franc. Aging was approximately ten months in second passage French oak Tonneau (500L.) Like the other wines, this is also produced in the clos style, with the grapes sourced from a small vineyard with a specific subsoil.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Floral with emphasis on rose petals, red fruit, plum, and spice. It is a darker color than the 2019.
Palate: It is lush with fruit and spice and a true expression of the vineyard. There is a beautiful balance between minerality, salinity, and tannins. Alcohol: 14.5% Pairing suggestions: All three wines are well-suited to meat dishes, game, porcini or truffle risotto, seared tuna, and hearty stews. A final note from James: “Our approach to winemaking is to really value the aromatic purity, beauty, and mineral expression, as much as the textural side.” Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com Honig Vineyard and Winery is a family-owned and operated winery situated in the picturesque town of Rutherford in Napa Valley, CA.  Honig Vineyard courtesy of Honig In 1964, Louis Honig purchased a 68-acre vineyard in Rutherford from the Wagners’, who are owners of the nearby Caymus vineyards. Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc were the two varieties planted in the vineyard that they bought. The Honig family grew and sold these grapes to nearby wineries until 1980 when they decided to try producing their own Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc. It was a great success! Realizing the potential of the grapes growing in their vineyards, they built a winery that was completed in 1982. Even though the wine they produced was good, they still struggled with sales and marketing. Michael Honig, grandson of Louis, saw great possibilities and stepped up to the plate in 1984 at the age of 22. Michael and his family slowly transformed their marketing approach. Sales grew, and today, their wines are sold in all 50 states and internationally.  Michael Honig Photo courtesy of Honig winery. Michael and his team are committed to the environment, practice sustainable wine growing, and use solar energy. They have California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance and Fish Friendly Farming certifications.  Photo courtesy of Honig winery In addition to hawks and owls that keep the rodent population down, they use sheep (aka Wooly Weeders) as natural lawnmowers, eliminating chemical weed killers.  Photo courtesy of Honig winery By only focusing on the production of two varietals, they have achieved the “true expression of the vineyard.” Michael recently sent me a bottle of each varietal to taste. He said, “We specialize and only make Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon. These two wines are the bottlings that we sell all over the world.”  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Honig 2023 Sauvignon This bottle is very eye-catching, with a beautiful view of the vineyard. It’s like looking through a window! The wine is 98% Sauvignon Blanc, 1% Semillon, and 1% Muscat. The grapes are sourced from Honig’s sustainably farmed vineyard in Rutherford (58%) and Lake County vineyards (42%.) Fermentation and aging take place in stainless steel tanks.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Floral, white stone fruit, citrus, and a hint of tropical notes. Palate: Pear, grapefruit, honeysuckle, and a touch of key lime make for a lively whirl and a juicy finish. It is fresh and bright! Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $23.99 Pairing suggestions: Enjoy as an aperitif or serve with seafood, salads or sushi. Honig 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley The first vintage for the Cabernet Sauvignon was in 1987. The grapes for this wine are 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5.3% Merlot, 4% Malbec, 2.4% Petit Verdot, 1.4% Cabernet Franc, and 1.2% Petit Syrah. Grapes are sourced from the Rutherford vineyard and local Napa Valley vineyards. The wine was aged 18 months in French and American oak barrels (25% new American oak, 20% new French oak.)  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Dark berries, cherry, a hint of cranberry, and baking spice. Palate: Lush notes of dark cherry covered in mocha, dark berries, sweet spice, and minerality. It is a sweet and savory dance on the palate with a silky, long finish. Nicely balanced. Alcohol: 14.9% SRP: $46.95 - $56.00 Pairing suggestions: Grilled meat, hearty stews, seared tuna, and mushroom risotto. As the song says… A bottle of red, a bottle of whites Whatever kind of mood you're in tonight… Billy Joel’s “Scenes From An Italian Restaurant”  Photo courtesy of Honig winery 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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