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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 National Prosecco Week 2024: The Event Celebrating the Success of Prosecco DOC in the United States.  National Prosecco Week (NPW) took place June 24-30, 2024, to celebrate one of the world's most beloved Italian excellences: Prosecco DOC. This week, which is dedicated to Italian bubbly, has become a regular event in the United States. Now in its 7th edition, it has consolidated itself as a successful platform to promote and publicize the authenticity and versatility of Prosecco DOC. The 2024 edition saw record participation, with events in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York and a massive presence in more than 1,700 restaurants and outlets across the US. In addition, more than 20 Prosecco DOC wineries were involved in the promotion. NPW was preceded by its Roadshow, which stopped in emerging cities for Veneto-Friuli bubbles such as Phoenix, Seattle, and Houston, offering tastings and educational seminars to the most curious and wine enthusiasts. Participants learned firsthand about the Prosecco DOC production process and tasted a selection of its types, including the increasingly popular Rosé version.  Among the most anticipated new features of NPW 2024 was the Cocktail Competition, organized in collaboration with the United States Bartenders' Guild. This competition once again highlighted the versatility of Prosecco DOC as a main ingredient in creative cocktails. The competition featured talented bartenders from all over the country. In the end, Jennifer Yim triumphed with her “Spritz Corretto,” a cocktail that captured the essence of Prosecco DOC by pairing it with exotic notes of melon tea. (Photo of Jennifer and Spritz Corretto is courtesy of US Bartenders' Guild.) The success of National Prosecco Week 2024 is also reflected in the numbers on social media. With more than 2.2 million impressions and a 170 percent increase in engagement over the previous year, NPW succeeded in engaging an ever-widening audience. Through influencer collaborations, organic posts, and paid campaigns, Prosecco DOC continued to shine not only in glasses but also on the digital feeds of wine enthusiasts. This social media engagement was accompanied by unprecedented media coverage, with over 396 articles published and a total reach of over 210 million people.  NPW celebrates Prosecco DOC as wine, territory, and Italian culture and tradition. Educational seminars, exclusive dinners, and tastings made this week an opportunity for industry experts, enthusiasts, and new consumers to meet, creating a dialogue between Italy and the United States over a glass of bubbly.  With ever-increasing participation and an increasingly tangible impact, National Prosecco Week is set to remain a key event in the calendar of wine enthusiasts. Thanks to NPW, Prosecco DOC continues to build a solid base of supporters in the United States, confirming it as a favorite choice for those seeking quality, versatility, and elegance in a glass. Cheers! Penina  This is a commissioned article by Prosecco DOC Consortium, for which I received compensation.
To learn about Prosecco, please click “Prosecco” in the Categories menu to the right. To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com As you might know by now, I don’t need a particular reason to open a bottle of wine, regardless of the price tag. I’m all about celebrating “just because” moments! So, whether you’re in the mood for bubbles or still wine, these wallet-friendly and easy-drinking wines are an excellent addition to keep in your refrigerator for your “just because” moments!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Occasionally,, I review new vintages of my favorite wines from producers I have written about in the past. And so it is with Pasqua Vigneti é Cantine, who always pleases my palate with their expressive and memorable wines. Still Wines Pasqua “11 Minutes” Rosé Trevenezie IGT 2023 Founded in 1925, this family-run business is located in Verona, Italy. and is led by third-generation Pasqua brothers Riccardo and Alessandro. The company has complete control over approximately 741 acres of vineyards (1/3 is estate-owned), stretching from Lake Garda to Soave. This wine is a unique blend of sustainably grown grapes sourced from Lake Garda. The blend is 50% Corvina, 25% Trebbiano di Lugana, 15% Syrah and 10% Carménère. It is called “11 Minutes” because after harvest thes grapes are gently pressed, and with only 11 minutes of skin contact, the most noteworthy qualities of the grapes are extracted, and the color is obtained. The bottle is an unusual and eye-catching oval shape, with an alluring photo of Lesbia seen through the front label.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Lovely floral notes, red berries, citrus, and a hint of herbs. Palate: This is a fresh and inviting rosé with wild strawberries, spice, vibrant acidity, and a touch of pink grapefruit on the finish. Alcohol: 12.5% SRP: $18.99 Pairing suggestions: Enjoy as an aperitif or serve with grilled fish, seafood, risotto, or salads. Veramonte Chardonnay 2022 Viñedos Veramonte is an organic estate established over 25 years ago, and it sits at the extreme eastern end of Chile’s Casablanca Valley. The Veramonte vineyards are located in both Casablanca Valley and Colchagua Valley. Organic grapes for this 100% Chardonnay are sourced from Casablanca Valley. Part of the wine is barrel fermented in neutral oak with wild yeasts for about eight months, and the rest in stainless steel tanks.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Floral, white stone fruit, citrus, minerality, and a hint of mint. Palate: Aromas segue onto the palate with subtle oak notes, nice acidity, lemon drops, and a touch of salinity. This is a fresh and lively wine. Alcohol: 14% SRP: $13.99 Pairing suggestions: Serve as an aperitif or pair with appetizers, seafood, grilled salmon, veggies, and pizza. Sparkling Wines Valdo Marca Oro Valdo was founded in 1926 by the Societa Anonima Vini Superiori and purchased by the Bolla Family in 1938. “Over 90 years of continuous innovation with an ongoing quest for quality and devotion to respecting the vineyards & wine-making traditions of the region has helped to secure Valdo’s position as one of the leading and most trusted Italian wineries specialized in Prosecco and sparkling wines.” (Valdo quote) Sparkling wines labeled Prosecco DOC (Denominazione d’Origins Controllata) come from nine provinces between Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia. What is considered to be the best quality Prosecco comes from the Treviso province, especially the area between Valdobbiadene and Conegliano, a hilly area that is the home of Prosecco Conegliano Valdobbiadene Superiore DOCG (Denominazione d’Origins Controllata e Garantita) The Valdo winery is located at the foothills of the “pre-alps” around Treviso in Valdobbiadene, the heart of Prosecco DOCG.with vineyards in the DOCG and DOC appellations. Valdo Marca Oro Prosecco DOC Rosé Brut The grapes for this sparkling wine are sourced from the Prosecco DOC appellation in Veneto, Italy. It is 90% Glera and 10% Pinot Noir and produced using the Charmat Method.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Lovely floral notes with pear, sweet apples, and red berries. Palate: Persistent and fine bubbles with aromas that segue onto the palate. Bright acidity and a creamy mouthfeel add to a long and refreshing finish. Alcohol: 11% SRP: $15.99 Pairing suggestions: Enjoy as an aperitif or serve with fish, pasta, salads, grilled chicken, or dessert. Valdo Marca Oro Prosecco DOC Brut The grapes for this 100% Glera sparkling wine are sourced from the Prosecco DOC appellation in Veneto, Italy. It is produced and aged using the Charmat method, followed by one month in the bottle.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Floral bouquet with green apples, white stone fruit, and hints of citrus. Palate: It has ersistent and fine bubbles with crisp fruity notes, lemon, and a touch of melon. It has excellent structure and is a fresh and lively wine! Alcohol: 11% SRP: $14.99 Pairing suggestions: Enjoy as an aperitif or serve with Asian cuisine, grilled fish, crab quiche, or turkey burgers. FIOL Prosecco DOC Rosé 2021 FIOL (pronounced FEE-yol) means “son” in Venetian dialect and “chap” in English. FIOL was founded in 2011 by Gian Luca Passi and co-founder Giovanni Ciani Bassetti. They are childhood friends who grew up surrounded by Prosecco. “Most local winemakers have been drinking sparkling wine for 50 years and need an extraordinarily strong bubble to really feel it. We wanted something gentler, more subtle, more fruity.” says Gian Luca Passi.” This rosé is made with 85% Glera and 15% Pinot Noir sourced from Prosecco DOC appellation. The Charmat method was used for production.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: White flowers, red berries, and citrus.
Palate: Persistent and creamy bubbles with raspberry, strawberry, lemon, and a touch of salinity. Simple, balanced, and elegant, with persistent bubbles to the last drop! Alcohol: 11% SRP: $22 Pairing suggestions: Serve as an aperitif or enjoy with seafood, grilled fish, chicken, salads, lobster rolls, or mushroom risotto. The above wines are perfect to enjoy this summer and all year round! Pop a cork and indulge in a “just because” moment! Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com The holidays are upon us, and there are many suggestions on the internet for what to pop open to celebrate all the festivities. So, I’ll skip the long list and keep it short and bubbly this year! As I’ve often said, one doesn’t need a special occasion to enjoy sparkling wine. And with holidays soon to be a distant memory and winter bearing down on us, let’s keep the party going! Recently, I received three sparkling wines to sample.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Having reviewed these wines several years ago, I was happy to dive into these tasty sparklers again. This time, I was provided with a creative cocktail recipe for each style of wine. Piper Sonoma was founded in 1980 by the Marquis d’Aulan family, direct descendants of the renowned Piper family. Based in Sonoma, CA, in the Russian River Valley region, Piper Sonoma has been producing sparkling wines for over 40 years. The wines are made in the Méthode Traditionnelle style, the same process used by its sister, Maison Champagne Piper-Heidsieck. Each vineyard lot is hand-harvested, fermented, and aged separately. The wines are produced in Healdsburg under the guidance and expertise of winemaker Keith Hock. The winemaking team collaborates with more than 20 growers, which include renowned families such as Dutton, Young, and Ledbetter, who, for decades, have been supplying Piper Sonoma with sustainably farmed grapes. Piper Sonoma collaborated with Sommelier Chloe Dickson to create effervescent drinks for each wine to delight the palate. - the Rosémary Spritz, Piper Sonoma “Champagne” cocktail, and Winter in Sonoma. The recipes follow each review. Piper Sonoma Brut Cuvée NV, Sonoma County This sparkling wine is a blend of 56% Chardonnay, 37% Pinot Noir, 7% Pinot Blanc, and an aged reserve blend (6%). The cuvée is placed en tirage for 19 months for secondary fermentation in the bottle before disgorgement. Finally, a small percentage of older reserve wine is included in the liqueur d’expedition, adding further complexity and texture. Nose: Orchard fruit, citrus, apple, and brioche. Palate: Lush with orange, green apples, red berries, minerality, bread dough, and creamy mouthfeel. It is a delicate mousse with a refreshing and long finish. Alcohol: 12.5% SRP: $23  Photo courtesy of Piper Sonoma  Piper Sonoma Rosé NV, Sonoma County This rosé is a blend of 61% Chardonnay, 33% Pinot Noir, 6% Pinot Blanc, and an aged reserve blend (10%). The cuvée is placed en tirage for secondary fermentation in the bottle for 32 months prior to disgorgement. Finally, a small percentage of older reserve wine is included in the liqueur d’expedition, adding further complexity and texture. Nose: Inviting aromas of floral, berries, citrus, and cranberry. Palate: Strawberry, cherry, citrus, and a touch of toast give way to a beautiful creamy mouthfeel and crisp acidity with a long finish. Alcohol: 12.6% SRP: $23  Photo courtesy of Piper Sonoma  Piper Sonoma Blanc de Blancs NV, Sonoma County The blend for this wine is 90% Chardonnay and 10% Pinot Blanc. The cuvée is placed en tirage for 36 months for secondary fermentation in the bottle prior to disgorgement. Nose: Lovely notes of floral, citrus, and green apples. Palate: This is a dry and lively wine with crisp acidity and creamy texture. Notes of tart apples, citrus, and brioche linger on a long and delectable finish. Alcohol: 12.9% SRP: $23  Photo courtesy of Piper Sonoma  Whether sipping these wines by the glass or mixed in cocktails, one can’t go wrong! And the price-to-value ratio is a no-brainer! These are lovely wines to serve over the holidays, and great to drink all year long!
Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com The holidays are quickly approaching, and menus are in the making. Why not get in the spirit with a glass of bubbly? Opening a bottle of good quality sparkling wine that retails for $18 is a no-brainer, especially when pouring a glass just for me! Domaine Bousquet is no stranger to my website. It is a family-owned winery and Argentina’s largest producer and exporter of organically grown wines. It is located in the Gualtallary Valley, high up in the Tupungato district of the Uco Valley, where altitudes can reach up to 5,249 ft. I’ve met and dined with Anne Bousquet (co-owner) several times, written numerous articles, and reviewed most of their palate-pleasing wines.  Photo is courtesy of Domaine Bousquet. So, let’s explore a few of Domaine Bousquet’s sparkling wines without further ado!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Both of these sparkling wines are produced using the Méthode Traditionnelle, where the second fermentation takes place in the bottle. The Brut is fermented on the lees in bottle for six months before disgorgement. 100% certified organic grapes are hand-harvested from the estate’s vineyards by the foothills of the Andes at an altitude of 4000 ft. The high altitude imparts cool nights and hot days, contributing to the grapes’ fresh fruit flavors and acidity. Domaine Bousquet Traditionnelle Chardonnay-Pinot Noir Brut NV This sparkling wine is made with 75% Chardonnay and 25% Pinot Noir.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Floral, yeast, tropical fruit notes with apple. Palate: Creamy mouth-feel with fine bubbles, lemon, green apple, and soft berries. Fresh, with lively acidity. Alcohol: 12% SRP: $18 Domaine Bousquet Traditionnelle Pinot Noir-Chardonnay Brut Rosé NV This sparkling wine is made with 75% Pinot Noir and 25% Chardonnay.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Floral, strawberry, sweet apples, and cherry. Palate: Refreshing acidity with persistent bubbles. Aromas segue onto the palate with citrus, cranberry, and lemon on the finish. Alcohol: 12% SRP: $18 Pairing suggestions: Enjoy these wines as an aperitif or with seafood, quiche, roasted chicken, and desserts! These wines are priced well and are a great way to kick off the holidays or to pop open for a “just because” moment!"  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 Fourth of July has come and gone, and the fireworks and sparklers have been put away. However, the sparkles, as in sparkling wine, continue at my house with corks popping and bubbles flowing! I never need an occasion to pour sparkling wine, and as I’m sure you all know by now, I love celebrating “just because” moments. Don’t you? I have a wonderful lineup of delicious Italian sparkling wines, specifically Prosecco, that will tickle your palate and won’t put a dent in your bank account. Before we get to the reviews, let’s take a quick trip to Italy.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Prosecco is a sparkling wine produced in the Veneto region of the northeastern part of Italy and is made primarily with Glera, a white grape variety. Here is a brief overview of the production area.  Sparkling wines labeled Prosecco DOC (Denominazione d’Origins Controllata) come from nine provinces between Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia. What is considered to be the best quality Prosecco comes from the Treviso province, especially the area between Valdobbiadene and Conegliano, a hilly area that is the home of Prosecco Conegliano Valdobbiadene Superiore DOCG (Denominazione d’Origins Controllata e Garantita)  There are three communes in the Prosecco DOCG: Conegliano, Valdobbiadene, and Asolo, located about 26 miles north of the Treviso airport. Asolo, a smaller town known as the “City of 100 Horizons” because of its spectacular panoramic views, is also included in the Prosecco DOCG and called Asolo Prosecco Superiore DOCG.  Valdobbiadene Photo credit: Penny Weiss Conegliano Valdobbiadene and Asolo have ancient origins of vine growing dating back to the Roman Empire, but the first written documentation connecting Prosecco to this area is from 1772. The DOC was established here in 1969, and the historic production of Prosecco has been limited to 15 communes. In 2009, Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG and Asolo Prosecco DOCG certification was issued. As of January 1, 2021, the Denomination di Origins Controllata consortium gave its final stamp of approval for making Prosecco Rosé, setting these wines apart from other pink sparkling wines made in Italy. The grapes for Prosecco Rosé must be sourced from a specific geographic area that has passed the Italian Government’s quality requirements. In addition, only Glera grapes (85 -90%) and Pinot Noir (10-15 %) are allowed. The DOC guidelines also require Prosecco Rosé to be fermented in stainless steel tanks for at least 60 days. Also, they must be vintage-dated and labeled Prosecco DOC. These sparkling wines range in style from very dry to slightly sweet. This area is rich in history, culture, and beauty, and the breathtaking countryside is filled with hills and rolling slopes rising up from the Piave River. From early origins, a glacier slid down from the Dolomites and came to rest in a valley that eventually became the riverbed of the Piave. The river begins in the Alps and flows into the Adriatic Sea. The local soil is attributed to this glacier and can vary depending on the slope of the hill. Some areas contain rock, sand, clay, and iron oxides. In areas unaffected by the glacier, the soils consist of marl and sandstone and are less deep and more porous. Because Conegliano Valdobbiadene and Asolo are situated between the sea and Prealps, the area experiences a mild climate with constant breezes. Vineyards have excellent sun exposure and benefit from the altitude and broad differences between day and night temperatures. The slopes, micro-climate, sun exposure, and various soils make this an ideal setting for growing Glera grapes for the production of Prosecco Superiore DOCG.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Unlike the traditional method used to produce sparkling wines such as Champagne, Cava, and Franciacorta, which goes through its second fermentation in the bottle, most Prosecco is made using the Charmat-Martinotti method, where the second fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks. Due to the Glera grape’s moderately high acidity and typical characteristics of white flowers, peach, melon, apple, and pear, it is the perfect grape for sparkling wine. So, let’s taste a few wines! Bele Casel Asolo Prosecco Superiore DOCG Vecchie Uve Extra Brut 2019 Bele Casel estate is located in the heart of Asolo, with 12 hectares of hillside vineyards in Cornuda, Maser, and Monfumo. Glera and other local varieties for this wine are sourced from Monfumo vineyards, with an average vine age of 50 years old. Secondary fermentation takes place in pressure tanks for 18 months on the lees.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Delicate, fruity aromas, floral, pear, sweet apple, and herbs. Palate: Creamy and persistent bubbles lead to a fresh and vibrant wine. Aromas segue onto the palate, with pear and apple lingering for an elegant finale. This wine can be aged in the bottle for six to eight years. Alcohol: 11% SRP: $24 Giusti Asolo Prosecco Superiore DOCG Brut NV From the first vineyard, owner Ermenegildo Giusti, planted in 2002, Società Agricola Giusti-Dal Col srl has grown to 75 hectares. The estate lies in the Montello and Pieve hills in eastern Veneto, between Treviso, Venice, and Asolo. This sparkling wine is 100% Glera harvested from vineyards in the hilly area of Montello and the Asolo hills. Secondary fermentation takes place in pressure tanks.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: A lovely floral bouquet with tart apple and lemon. Palate: Creamy and persistent bubbles with brisk acidity, pear, apple, peach, lemon zest, and minerality. Alcohol: 11.5% SRP: $14 Montelliana “57” Asolo Prosecco Superiore DOCG Extra Dry This wine is named for the year the winery was founded, in 1957. Cantina Montelliana is located in the heart of the Marca Trevigiana, at the foot of Colli Asolani and Montello district. It is a cooperative of 400 associated vine growers that produce Prosecco DOC and DOCG. This 100% Glera sparkling wine is made using the Charmat method.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Fruity bouquet with floral, apples, melon, and peach. Palate: Creamy perlage with apples, pear, white peach, white flowers, minerality, and vibrant acidity. Alcohol: 11% SRP: $ $14 Villa Sandi Villa Sandi is located in the heart of the Treviso Province at the foot of Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG hills. The estate boasts an extensive network of underground cellars dating back to 1622. Villa Sandi is owned by the Moretti Polegato family, purchased in 1970, and is a family-run business. They have five estates in the DOC and DOCG areas between the regions of Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia.  Valdbbiadene Photo courtesy of Villa Sandi Villa Sandi Il Fresco Prosecco DOC Rosé Millesimato 2021 This wine is a blend of 85% Glera and 15% Pinot Noir. Grapes are sourced from vineyards in the Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia regions. The wine is made using the Charmat method.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Rose petals, raspberry, a hint of citrus, and pear. Palate: Fresh strawberries and cream come to mind with this delectable rosé. Creamy bubbles, red berries, floral notes, and bright acidity. Very refreshing! Alcohol: 11% SRP: $22 Villa Sandi Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG Extra Dry NV The grapes for this wine are sourced from the hilly countryside of Conegliano-Valdobbiadene DOCG, in the Valdobbiadene DOCG appellation. It is a blend of 85% Glera and 15% Chardonnay.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Beautiful floral notes with hints of honeysuckle, white stone fruit, and apple. Palate: Aromas segue onto the palate with creamy bubbles and lively acidity. Alcohol: 11% SRP: $25 Villa Sandi Il Fresco Prosecco Biologico Organic Brut DOC NV This sparkling wine is Certified Organic by Valoritalia (a company for the certification of quality and Italian wine production S.r.l.), which means no synthetic chemicals are used in the wine growing process. It is 100% Glera and is produced using the Charmat method.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Floral with a touch of edelweiss. It is fruity, with white stone fruit and melon. Palate: Fine and persistent bubbles, dry, sweet apple, white peach, and honeydew. Fresh and lively! Alcohol: 11% SRP: $22 LaMarca LaMarca was established in 1968 and is a wine-producing company representing the products of nine cooperative wineries and fourteen processing plants in the heart of the province of Treviso, specifically, LaMarca Trevigiana. LaMarca Prosecco DOC NV This wine is 100% Glera, sourced from hundreds of small villages throughout the Prosecco DOC region. It is produced using the Charmat method.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Floral notes, citrus, white stone fruit, and honey. Palate: This a fresh and lovely wine with crisp notes of green apple, citrus, grapefruit, minerality, and a touch of lemon zest on the finish. Alcohol: 11% SRP: $19 LaMarca Prosecco Rosé DOC 2021 Glera and Pinot Noir (10-15%) are sourced from vineyards throughout Treviso’s hillside along the Piave River. An extended secondary fermentation for at least 60 days takes place in stainless steel tanks.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Floral, red berries, white stone fruit, and a hint of herbs. Palate: Fresh and crisp, with raspberry, strawberry, cherry, citrus, white peach, minerality, and lively bubbles. Alcohol: 11% SRP: $19 Enjoy these sparkling wines as an aperitif or pair with just about anything from salty to sweet, appetizers, main courses, and desserts! Here are a few food pairing suggestions: creamy, mild, or savory cheese, apple and goat cheese salad, seafood, shellfish, charcuterie board, pizza, spicy Asian cuisine, pasta, grilled white meat dishes, roasted veggies, delicate pastries, and salted popcorn! I look forward to returning to this region soon to soak up more beauty, culture, and sparkling wine! In the meantime, I’ll pour a glass of Prosecco and let it transport me back to this magical region with every sip I take. Pure bliss!  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 With Valentine’s Day almost upon us, flower and candy shops, jewelry stores, and the wine and spirits industry are dazzling 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, we should be celebrating and indulging 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, the unexpected gesture of love and friendship is the most meaningful, not because a holiday dictates it. And yes, I admit that I have occasionally gone overboard in celebrating Valentine’s Day, despite it all. I admit, I am a romantic at heart.  Whether it’s Valentine’s Day or a “just because” day, pick up some fun treats and open up a sparkling wine you’ve never tried. If you're not inclined to spend a lot of money, many noteworthy sparkling wines are available for $18 and under! Below are some excellent sparkling wines from France, Argentina, and Italy. Check my posts under “sparkling wine” for reviews and suggestions.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss As I say every year, “whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day with loved ones, friends, or family, or just want to celebrate “you,” go ahead and indulge! Eat champagne truffles and pop open a bottle of bubbly!” Have a sweet and sparkling Valentine’s Day!  Cheers! XOXO
Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com With the holidays rapidly approaching, luncheon and dinner plans are in the works, along with appropriate wine pairings  What once was a simple task of putting together a traditional menu has become more challenging these days, with dietary restrictions and eating lifestyle choices to consider. Food allergies and vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-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 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 Albert Look for white wines with higher acidity and lower alcohol. Not only will they pair well with traditional fare that tends to be rich in fat and salt, but they 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 it 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 in 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, and enjoy the holidays! Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at wineknittercomments@gmail.com The curtain has finally lifted, and the summer of 2022 will be filled again with festive outdoor concerts, fairs, and picnics. So whether you’re headed to an event, the beach, or enjoying leisure backyard time at home with family and friends, apply the sunscreen and grab a cooler because I’ve got you covered with some easy-to-transport wines and a few other thirst-quenching treats.  Photo credit: Ethan Robertson Grand View Research said, “The global canned wines market size was valued at USD 211.4 million in 2020. The rising demand for convenient, portable, and single-serve beverages is the key driver for the market growth.” According to a new report from Grand View Research in May 2021, “The global canned wines market size is expected to reach USD 571.8 million by 2028, registering a CAGR (compound annual growth rate)of 13.2%. Canned beverages are highly convenient due to the compact size of cans. Moreover, there has been a growing demand for portable and less fragile wine containers than glass. These factors are projected to support the market growth.” Francis Ford Coppola Sofia Brut Rosé Canned Wines Located in Sonoma County, this iconic winery produces more than 40 wines on-site and is now offering brut rosé in Mini Cans! Sofia Brut Rosé (a tribute to Coppola’s only daughter.) is an off-dry, light, effervescent wine and a perfect addition to the picnic basket.  This rosé is a blend of 40% Pinot Grigio, 22% Zinfandel, 20% Grenache 15% Pinot Noir and 3% Chardonnay. It is refreshing and crisp with notes of floral, peach, strawberries, and a touch of lemon zest on the finish. Alcohol: 11.5% SRP: $20 for a 4-pack Each can holds 187-ml of wine. Pairings: Enjoy as an aperitif or with BBQ fare, paté, cheese, and dessert. Domaine Bousquet Le Petit Canned Wines These certified organic wines are produced from grapes grown in the cool Argentine foothills of the Andean mountains. Domaine Bousquet is Argentina’s leading producer and exporter of certified-organic wines. They are the first to present canned wines from Argentina made from certified organic grapes. “Le Petit” is “The Little One” in French. The fruit for both wines is from the 2021 harvest sourced from vineyards in Tupungato, Alto Gualtallary, at 4000 ft. altitude.  Le Petit Bubbly Rosé This wine is a blend of 50% Pinot Noir, 30% Syrah, 10% Pinot Gris, and 10% Viognier and is made using the Charmat method. It has lots of fresh berry aromas, and the palate offers a dry, crisp wine with refreshing fruit and soft bubbles. Alcohol: 12.5% SRP: $13 for a 4-pack/$3.50 per can. Each can holds 250-ml of wine. Pairings: Enjoy as an aperitif or with shellfish, salads, and fruit. Le Petit Malbec This 100% Malbec oozes juicy black and red berry aromas that segue onto the palate with a bit of earthiness and fig. A touch of spice lingers on the finish. Alcohol: 14% SRP: $13 for a 4-pack/$3.50 per can. Each can holds 250-ml of wine. Pairings: It’s a perfect match for BBQ or hard cheese and fruit. In addition to premium single-serve wines, premium boxed wines are also gaining popularity. Their portability and the lure of a smaller carbon footprint are appealing. Boxed wines usually come in 3-liter to 5-liter sizes, making it easy to accommodate your entertaining needs. Also, boxed wines are easy to transport and unbreakable, and each 3L box is equivalent to four bottles of wine! And the wine will stay fresh for 30 days or longer in the refrigerator if it’s in a vacuum pack. Sandy Giovese Vino Rosso Boxed Wine Amy Ezrin is the founder of Sandy Giovese wines and teases that the character name “Sandy Giovese” is her alter ego. The name is a playful spin on the Sangiovese grapes used to make this boxed wine, which is 85% Sangiovese and 15% Trebbiano. It is produced from organically-farmed grapes sourced from vineyards in Italy’s Le Marche region, located on the Adriatic Sea.  Nose: Red fruit, violets, and a hint of herbs. Palate: Cherry, cranberry, crisp acidity, refreshing and light, an easy-drinking wine. Alcohol: 12% SRP: $34.99/3L box Pairings: Aperitif, pasta, pizza, BBQ, grilled chicken, fruit & cheese platter. Domaine Bousquet Natural Origins Rosé 2021 Boxed Wine Along with bottled and canned wines, Domaine Bousquet also produces a line of organic “bag in a box” boxed wines. Fruit for Natural Origins line is sourced from the upper reaches of the Tupungato Valley, known for producing grapes with an abundance of aroma, flavor, and freshness thanks to large day-night temperature differentials and the intense Andean sunlight. The box states that the wine will stay fresh for 90 days after opening!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss The organic grapes for this rosé are a blend of 50% Pinot Noir, 30% Syrah, 10% Pinot Gris, and 10% Viognier. Nose: Red berries, cherry, and a hint of floral. Palate: Strawberry, cherry, and a touch of spice with fresh acidity. Refreshing and perfect for an outing. Alcohol: 12% SRP: $20/3L box Pairings: Aperitif, seafood, shellfish, salads, grilled chicken, or fruit and dessert. And, if you’re looking for festive and unusual single-serve, low-alcoholic beverages, these treats from SQZ will brighten the party. SQZ SQZ is located in Lanark, Illinois, and is owned by Anthony Curcio, CEO, and mastermind behind these low-alcoholic beverages. Anthony’s grandfather, Lorenzo Curcio, was known for his fruit wines made in the region of Calabria, Italy. And so, this family tradition was passed on from generation to generation, with Anthony taking it to another level.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss The packaging for these low-alcohol fruit wines is unique and whimsical. And if you don’t mind using glass outside, the concept of Mason jars is brilliant, and they are reusable!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Each Mason jar contains 375 ml of wine. The fruit wines are hand-crafted and made in small batches using only natural ingredients. Lemon juice, water, cane sugar, and yeast are used as the base. All added flavors are sourced from real juice, with no extracts or preservatives. The water is locally sourced deep well water that is triple filtered to ensure consistency in each batch made. The juice is naturally fermented and blended in stainless steel tanks. All six flavors, including the newest, Key Lime-Jalapeno, are refreshing and range from crisp and tart to mildly sweet or spicy! Drink as is, or get creative and use SQZ in cocktails! Alcohol: 9% SRP: $29.99 for a six-jar pack. (equivalent to three bottles of wine) Single jar-$4.99 each For those who prefer to pour from a bottle instead of canned or boxed wine, here are a few premium screw-top rosés to pack in the cooler. No corkscrew needed!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Bodegas Salentein Portillo Rosé 2021 Bodegas Salentein is located in the Uco Valley of Mendoza, Argentina. This privately-owned estate was established in the late 1990s and boasts almost 5000 acres, of which 1,124 acres are planted to vine. Many of their vineyards are situated at some of the highest elevations in the world. The grapes for this 100% Malbec are sourced from Valle de Uco appellation. Nose: Red berries, cherry, and floral. Palate: Fresh strawberry and raspberry with nicely balanced acidity. Light and refreshing! Alcohol: 13% SRP: $10.99 Diora La Belle Fête Rosé of Pinot Noir 2021 Diora is a brand of Delicato Family Wines, owned and run by the Indelicato family. Based in Monterey’s AVA, on Californias’s Central Coast, they have 1800 acres planted with vines. The grapes for this rosé are sourced from their estate San Bernabe Vineyard, and the wine is a blend of 88.2% Pinot Noir, 6.1 % Syrah, and 5.6% Grenache. The majority of the blend was fermented in stainless steel, with a small portion in neutral oak for a touch of creaminess to the palate. After two months, the wine was bottled. Nose: Cherries, red berries, and a hint of grapefruit. Palate: Aromas segue onto the palate with crisp acidity and notes of watermelon. It is dry and light, another great wine for the picnic basket. Alcohol: 12% SRP: $19.99 Saget La Perrière “La Petite Perrière” Rosé 2021 La Perrière is a family-run company located 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. This 100% Pinot Noir is sourced mainly from their estate vineyards in Touraine (Loire Valley), and a part of the blend is sourced from the South of France through their long-term partners. Nose: Fresh fruit notes of strawberry, floral, and a hint of minerality. Palate: This is a lively wine with juicy strawberry, raspberry, and a touch of grapefruit to balance it. Alcohol: 12% SRP: $13.99 Pairings for these three rosés: Enjoy as aperitifs or serve with seafood, salad, light pasta, BBQ, grilled chicken, or fruit and cheese platter. All the canned, boxed, and bottled wines should be served chilled. If iced tea is your go-to beverage, then here is a delightful collection of all-natural teas to brew and sip over ice while lazing in the hammock or sailing around the lake. Adagio Teas This family-owned company is aptly named Adagio (a musical term meaning “slow” or “at ease.”). Relaxing and slowing down the pace while drinking these refreshing teas works for me!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss They have two facilities, one in New Jersey and one in the UK. And all of the teas come directly from farmers around the world.  The full-leaf, pre-measured pouches make the tea easy to prepare. Add water to a quart-size pitcher, toss in the pouch, and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight. There is an abundance of flavors to choose from, and sampler boxes are available. There are 40 varieties, such as herbal blends, chai, black, oolong, and the list goes on! One of my favorites is the Purple Papayaberry Iced Tea. It is blended with Hibiscus, Butterfly Pea Flower, Apple Pieces, Rose Hips, Orange, Papaya Flavor, Blueberries, Strawberries & Natural Blackberry Flavor. It’s perfect for a hot summer day. SRP: Iced tea sampler sets are $14 for six pouches that make one quart of tea per pouch. Purple Papayaberry is $8 for six pouches.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Summer is in full swing, and it’s time to kick off your shoes, embrace the outdoors and indulge your palate!
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 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 |
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