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It doesn’t matter what time of year it is when it comes to sipping rosé wines. But, a chilled glass of rosé in hand during the warmer months is quite divine! The spring and summer seasons always bring stunning blooms bursting with an array of colors and seductive fragrances. Not to be outdone by mother nature, rosé wines are made in various styles, enticing aroma and alluring shades of pink. And the bottles tend to be beautiful as well. With so many choices on the market, one might be inclined to start a rosé garden!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss In its simplest terms, wine gets its color from the skin of grapes, and there are several methods of achieving this with rosé wine. Limited Skin Maceration Rosé wine is produced from red grapes with limited skin contact during maceration. After harvest, the grapes are crushed, and the juice is allowed time on the skins, which could be just a few hours or up to a week. The less time spent on the skins, the lighter the color of the wine will be. The longer the maceration, the darker and more flavorful the rosé will tend to be. After maceration, the juice is drawn off, and fermentation of the wine begins. Direct Press With this method, the grapes are pressed to remove the skins (such as with white wines), and juice is immediately drawn off, only allowing the juice to contact the skins for a very short time. This process produces some of the lightest-hued rosés. Winemakers often use this method for darker-skinned grapes. Saignée Method This method is also referred to as the “bleeding” method. It was originally a method used to make concentrated red wines. With this technique, red wines are vinified using a standard process, but in the early stages of maceration, the winemaker will “bleed” some of the red wine juice from the tank and then vinify it separately as a rosé. Saignée rosés are richer, darker, and more flavorful. Some winemakers like to age their Saignée rosés in oak barrels. The variety of grapes used, the regions, production techniques, and harvest year all play a significant role in these wines’ style, color, and flavor. Rosé wines can range from delicate to rich, extra-dry to sweet, simple tank fermentation to barrel-fermented, and runs the spectrum of diverse flavors such as light citrus to deeper, fruitier wines. For many consumers, buying rosé wine is motivated by the “pink” wine in a pretty bottle that complements the care-free months of warm weather. For others, it is the country, region, style, and grape variety that influences their purchase. Here are a few pretty shades of pink in both still and sparkling style that I hope inspire you to start your rosé garden!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Still Rosés  Photo credit: Penny Weiss France Château Puech-Haut Tête de Bélier Rosé AOP Languedoc 2019 The grape blend for this rosé is 99% Mourvédre and 1% Grenache, sourced from Languedoc-Saint Drezery vineyards. Aroma: Citrus, strawberry, floral, and a touch of minerality Palate: Lovely layers of fresh berries, notes of exotic fruit, citrus, and spice. A complex wine with a generous mouthfeel and long finish. Alcohol: 14.1% SRP: $34 Jean-Luc Colombo Cape Bleue Rosé 2020 This is a blend of 67% Syrah and 33% Mourvédre. Grapes are sourced from vineyards in the hills above the bay of Marseille, next to Provence. The saignée method is used, and then the wine juice is fermented in stainless steel tanks for three weeks. Aroma: Rose petals, raspberry, white stone fruit, and watermelon Palate: Crisp and refreshing with notes of raspberry, peach, minerality, and a touch of sour cherry. Alcohol: 12.5% SRP: $14.99 Côté Mas Aurore Rosé Pays d’Oc IGP 2020 Domaines Paul Mas is located in Languedoc, where 20% of the estate vineyards are farmed organically, with the rest farmed using sustainable practices. This rosé is a blend of 50% Grenache, 30% Cinsault 10% Syrah, and 10% Vermentino. The bottle is very eye-catching with its colorful label! Aroma: Floral, strawberry, cherry, and a hint of melon Palate: Ripe red fruit with lush berries and nice acidity with a mineral edge on the finish. Alcohol: 14.2% SRP: $13.99 Spain Inazio Urruzola Getariako Txakolina Rosé DO 2019 This estate is located in the heart of Basque country. The wine is a blend of two indigenous grapes, 50% Hondarr Abi Zuri and 50% Hondarr Abi Beltza. Aroma: Floral, fresh berries, and green apple Palate: Juicy fruit, berries, ruby grapefruit, Vibrant acidity balanced with minerality. Quite refreshing. Alcohol: 10.5% SRP: $20 Italy Bertani Bertarose IGT 2020 The historic Bertani winery is located in the Veneto region of Italy. This rosé is made with 75% Molinaro and 25% Merlot. Grapes are sourced from hillside vineyards above Lake Garda. Grapes are vinified separately, with only the Molinaro having skin contact. The blend is then aged in stainless steel tanks for about three months on the lees. Aroma: Floral, red and dark fruit, pomegranate, and grapefruit. Palate: White flowers, ruby grapefruit, strawberry, and a hint of cherry. Lovely balance between acidity and salinity. Alcohol: 12% SRP: $19.99 Planeta Sicilia DOC Rosé 2020 Planeta has vineyard locations in five territories spread throughout Sicily with six boutique wineries. The grapes for this rosé were sourced from Dispensa Estate in Menfi (western Sicily) and is a blend of 50% Nero d’Avola and 50% Syrah. Aroma: Floral, red berries, melon Palate: Berries, white stone fruit. A refreshing, dry wine with crisp acidity and hints of minerality and salinity. Alcohol: 12.5% SRP: $19.99 Austria Pratsch Niederösterreich Rosé 2020 This wine is made from 100% Zweigelt grapes sourced from organic vineyards in the Weinviertel region bordering Vienna. Aroma: Strawberry, hints of citrus Palate: A delicate and dry rosé with flavors of pear, strawberry, and juicy white stone fruit. Refreshing acidity and lemon zest on the finish Alcohol: 11.5% SRP: $13 Argentina Susana Balbo Signature Rosé 2020 Sourced from Valle de Uco in Mendoza, this rosé is a blend of 60% Malbec and 40% Pinot Noir. Grapes are fermented in stainless steel tanks for 20 days. Aroma: Ripe berries, cherry, citrus, and a hint of minerality Palate: Aromas continue onto the palate with notes of strawberry. Fresh, vibrant, and juicy. Alcohol: 13% SRP: $20 Sparkling Rosés Sparkling rosés are available in a variety of styles produced around the world. They are made in either the traditional method, where the second fermentation takes place in the bottle, or the tank (Charmat) method, where the second fermentation occurs in a steel tank. Sparkling wines go by different names depending on country/region/appellation of origin, such as: Champagne and Crémant – France Sekt – Germany Cava – Spain Prosecco – Italy  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Crémant De Bourgogne Rosé NV Brut AOC This wine is produced by Prosper Maufoux, located in the south of the Côte de Beaune in Burgundy, France. It is a blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Gamay, made in the Traditional Method. Aroma: Ripe red fruit, berries Palate: Crisp and light, soft citrus notes, strawberry, raspberry. Fine bubbles. Alcohol: 12% SRP: $19 Santa Julia Argentina Brut Rosé NV This wine is 100% Pinot Noir. Grapes are sourced from Tupungato vineyards in Mendoza. The direct press was used and wine produced using the Charmat method. Aroma: Nice strawberry and raspberry notes. Palate: Crisp and lively with light notes of fresh berries and pomegranate. Creamy, with a touch of yeast and nice acidity. Alcohol: 12.5% SRP: $13 Prosecco Rosé As of January 1, 2021, the Denomination di Origins Controllata (DOC) consortium gave its final stamp of approval for making Prosecco Rosé, setting these wines apart from other pink sparkling wines made in Italy. The grapes for Prosecco Rosé must be sourced from a specific geographic area that has passed the Italian Government’s quality requirements. Only Glera grapes (85 -90%) and Pinot Noir (10-15 %) are allowed. The DOC guidelines also require that Prosecco Rosé be fermented for at least 60 days in stainless steel tanks. Also, they must be vintage-dated and labeled Prosecco DOC. These sparkling wines range in style from very dry to slightly sweet. If you are a fan of Prosecco, then you will enjoy these sparkling rosé wines.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Gran Passione Prosecco DOC Rosé Millesimato 2019 Extra Dry
It is produced by Botter, located in the Veneto region. 85% Glera, 15% Pinot Noir Wine is made using the Charmat method. After bottling, it is cellared for two years. Aroma: Floral, red berries, and cherry Palate: Fresh and crisp, with notes of pear, citrus, honey crisp apples, and strawberry. Fine perlage. Alcohol: 11% SRP: $13 Il Fresco Prosecco DOC Rosé Millesimato 2020 Villa Sandi produces it. The grapes for this wine come from Treviso, the heart of Prosecco. Wine is made using the Charmat method. Aroma: Floral, berries, apple Palate: Fresh, light, and dry. Red berries, sweet apple, pomegranate, citrus, and a touch of floral. Creamy mouthfeel and fine bubbles. Alcohol: 11% SRP: $17 Riondo Prosecco Rosé DOC Millesimato 2020 Extra Dry This wine is produced by Collis-Riondo, located in the Veneto region. It is a blend of 90% Glera and 10% Pinot Noir. Aroma: Floral, cherry, fresh berries, and apple Palate: Dry and lively with juicy notes of raspberry, peach, cherry, and sweet apple. Creamy mouthfeel and fine bubbles. Alcohol: 11% SRP: $14.99 All of the above wines will drink beautifully as an aperitif or pair nicely with light appetizers, seafood, salads, grilled chicken, Asian and Mediterranean dishes, and desserts. A big thank you to Winesellers, LTD, Folio Fine Wine Partners, and Taub Family Selections for their generous contribution to my rosé garden. Until next time... Cheers! Penina This story was originally published on Santé Magazine. To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at [email protected] This story was originally published on Santé Magazine When one thinks of the Tuscany wine region, Chianti Classico (the heart of the Chianti zone), Brunello di Montalcino and Bolgheri DOC might come to mind. Known as Toscana to Italians, this beautiful wine region with its rolling hills, medieval castles, ancient roads, olive trees, and wine vineyards is renowned for its Sangiovese-based red wines. Almost two-thirds of the vineyards in Tuscany are planted with Sangiovese. This grape is high in tannins and acidity, and depending on where Sangiovese is grown and how it is vinified, the wine’s characteristics will ultimately reflect its origins.  Sangiovese grapes Photo courtesy ofConsorzio Tutela Montecucco Tuscany is located in central Italy, stretching along the Tyrrhenian Sea coastline to the west, Liguria and Emilia-Romagna to the north, Umbria and Marche to the east, and Lazio to the South.  Map is courtesy of Consorzio Tutela Montecucco Nestled between Montalcino and Scansano in the southern part of Tuscany is a hidden gem called Montecucco.  Photo courtesy of Jonathan Skule The Etruscans in the sixth century B.C. cultivated vines and produced wine here. According to Consorzio Tutela Montecucco, “In the 1970s, the first two geographical appellations in our territory were officiated, considered forerunners of the Montecucco appellation; the Montecucco Denomination of Origins (DOC) was officiated in 1998.” In 2011, Montecucco Sangiovese was established as a separate DOCG. The newly appointed president of the Consorzio, Giovan Battista Basile, added “Sustainability, a key element in the DOC and DOCG where almost 70% of production is organic, will be the main asset of the consortium. Another important asset is the uniqueness of the Sangiovese grape, the “king” of the denomination, characterized by its high quality and distinctive personality. These are the strengths that will allow us to consolidate the positive trends recorded in the past years and further strengthen our presence, starting in Italy and extending to the global market.” The Montecucco Consortium, founded in 2000, represents 68 wine producers. They also represent over 500 hectares of vineyards out of 750/800 hectares, which produces more than 1.2 million bottles. The vineyards in Southern Tuscany are at lower altitudes than the rest of Tuscany, creating a warmer climate. Since Sangiovese grapes are late to ripen, this is an ideal location. Because of Montecucco’s proximity to the sea, the vineyards benefit from the cooling maritime breezes off the coastline, moderating the warm temperatures. This, in turn, produces healthy, fully ripe grapes. A few areas of clayey soil are present, but most of the territory consists of non-calcareous soils, which are very suitable for cultivating vines and olives. In addition to Sangiovese, the other principle red grape is Ciliegiolo. The principle white grape varieties are Grechetto, Vermentino, Malvasia and Trebbiano. The regulations for making Montecucco Rossa DOC and Sangiovese DOCG are as follows: Montecucco Rosso DOC: must be at least 60% Sangiovese. The Riserva must age for at least 12 months in barrel and six months in bottle before release. Montecucco Sangiovese DOCG: must be at least 90% Sangiovese, aged for a minimum of 12 months in barrel and four months in bottle before release. The Riserva must be aged for a minimum of 24 months in barrel and six months in bottle. Here is an introduction to two wineries and wines (samples) in Montecucco.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Poggio Stenti Poggio Stenti is a small family winery owned by the Pieri family and run by Carlo Pieri, a well-known salami producer. Stenti translated means “hardships” in Italian. The estate was named to acknowledge the harshness of farming life in the Montenero d’Orcia district. The Pieris are farmers at heart, cultivating small land plots designated for Sangiovese, Vermentino, and Cabernet Sauvignon. They have 30 hectares of land encompassing the vineyards, an olive grove, barley, spelt, and wheat crops. They also breed pigs and calves. Poggio Stenti is located in Monte Amiata, a stone’s throw from the historic vineyards of Montalcino  Poggio Stenti Olive Fields Poggio Stenti Montecucco Rosso DOC 2019 This wine is made from 90% Sangiovese, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from the estate’s vineyards. The wine is aged for about eight months in stainless steel tanks and then six months in the bottle before release.  Nose: Ripe cherry, plum, earth, spice Palate: Vibrant red fruit, spice, mocha. Silky tannins, with a nice balance of sweet and savory on the finish. Pairings: Grilled meat, stews, seared tuna, appetizers, and pizza. Alcohol: 14% SRP: $15 Peteglia Peteglia is owned by two brothers, Marco and Emanuele Innocenti. They both have an extensive background in the study and research of the agricultural sector. What began in the 80s with their parents Claudia and Sergio exploring agriculture eventually turned into a profitable company 30 years later. Today they have approximately 70 hectares of land dedicated to vineyards, olive groves, and the cultivation of cereals. Five hectares are designated for Sangiovese, Vermentino, and Cabernet Sauvignon. They also raise Chianna lgp cattle. The Peteglia farmhouse sits on a hillock overlooking the slopes of Monte Amiata.  Photo courtesy of Peteglia Peteglia Montecucco Sangiovese Riserva DOCG, 2016 This wine is 100% Sangiovese made with grapes from vineyards of about 35 years of age. The wine is aged 36 months in large Slavonian oak barrels and then in the bottle for another 12 months before release. The Riserva is made only in the best vintage years.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Nose: Dark cherry, berries, herbs, earth, spice, balsamic notes.
Palate: Aromas carry over to the palate with blackberry, vanilla, smooth tannins, vibrant acidity, and a long, rich, satisfying finish. Pairings: Grilled meat, poultry, charcuterie, pasta, seared tuna. Alcohol: 15% SRP: $25 Peteglia recommends decanting this wine before serving. These are impressive wines and an incredible bargain at these prices. I can’t wait to explore this “hidden gem” in person! Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at [email protected] My virtual airplane has landed in Rioja, Spain, just in time to sample a delicious glass of wine from this region.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Located in north-central Spain, Rioja consists of valleys that stretch along the Ebro River. It is divided into three sub-regions: Rioja Oriental, Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa  https://www.cellartours.com/spain/spanish-wine-maps/la-rioja Bodegas Beronia was founded in 1973 by Gonźalez Byass, a group of friends and businessmen with a shared passion for good food and high-quality wines. The winery is located in the heart of the Rioja Alta sub-region, in a village called Ollauri.  Photo courtesy of Bodegas Beronia The area of Beronia was named by the Berones who inhabited the region of Rioja in the third century BC. They were warrior people of Celtic origin, dedicated to agriculture, livestock, pottery, and metallurgy. Bodegas Beronia’s name pays homage to the primitive inhabitants of this land. The winery is surrounded by 900 hectares of vineyards, small, individual parcels owned by growers. The average age of vines is 30 years, with 50 hectares dedicated to old vines of more than 60 years of age. The winery and growers have a long-standing relationship, guaranteeing that the best quality fruit is produced and supplied to the winery.  Photo is courtesy of Bodegas Beronia Matias Calleja, Beronia’s winemaker, personally supervises the vineyards and selects only the best vineyard plots for his wines. Over 85% of Beronia’s vineyards are planted with Tempranillo, the traditional grape of Rioja. Graciano, Mazuelo, Garnacha and Viura make up the other 15%. Sustainable farming techniques are practiced, and “environmentally friendly” methods are applied during the vinification process. 95% of the wines produced are red, with particular attention and dedication to long aging in French oak, American oak, and mixed barrels. Matias Calleja designed and created the mixed barrels that are made of American staves and French tops.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Beronia Crianza DOCa Rioja 2017 Crianza is a Spanish wine classification indicating the wine is aged for a minimum of one year in oak barrels and a few months in bottle. This wine is made with 94% Tempranillo 5% Garnacha and 1% Mazuelo. It is aged for 12 months in mixed oak barrels with American staves and French tops to create “the Beronia” style. The wine rests in the bottle for three months before release.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss A vibrant and deep red color leads to aromas of cherry, raspberry, herbs, and baking spice. The palate offers a rich blend of lush fruit, dark cherry, berries, spice, and vanilla. Smooth tannins and a long finish with lingering notes of cherry and vanilla beg for another sip. Serve with grilled meats, hearty stews, soups, seared tuna, and assorted cheese.
Alcohol: 14.5% SRP: 750 ml/$14.99 350 ml/ $7.99 I love the 375ml bottle. It is perfect for a single serve, especially for our online, social distancing cocktail hours! Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at [email protected] This story was originally published on Santé Magazine. There are many interpretations and symbolisms throughout the world concerning the dragonfly. In some cultures, it represents transformation and exemplifies the light and joy we should be embracing. In other cultures, the dragonfly signifies good luck and is perceived as being magical. In some parts of the world, it is believed that if you encounter a dragonfly, positive transformation is on the way, and you are about to emerge forever changed and much wiser. The dragonfly has a short life of approximately six months, and in some cultures, it represents that one must live life to its fullest. For me, dragonflies are magical and have played an important role in my life for many years. In fact, I have one tattooed on my ankle! But that is another story.  Photo credit: Dorothea Oldani So, what does all of this have to do with wine? It begins with a talented winemaker and entrepreneur, a beautiful bottle and label, and of course, the wine!  Photo courtesy of Blu Giovello Piera Martellozzo is an established winemaker and entrepreneur with three generations and over a century of history behind her. In 1899 Piera’s grandfather, Giovanni, founded Winery Piera Martellozzo in Padua province, located in northern Italy’s Veneto wine region. Piera’s father, Mario, is credited for developing the winery. In 1992, Mario passed the baton and entrusted Piera with managing the family’s small wine estate.  Piera Martellozzo Twenty-nine years later, under the guidance and tenacity of Piera, the winery has grown and expanded to include premium vineyards in Friuli Venezia Giulia, Veneto, and Trentino. With a focus on indigenous grapes, high-quality vineyards, and sustainability, including an organic wine range introduced in 1998, Piera has stood behind her mission to produce quality wines. She focuses on blending traditional production methods with acknowledgment of contemporary times and the future. Piera’s emphasis was initially on the production of Prosecco, but she eventually expanded her repertoire to include a more diverse “wine” menu. Her expansion included Friuli Venezia Giulia, a wine region known for its white wine production. In San Quirino in Pordenone province, she purchased a comprehensive winery, which is now home base.  Winery and Vineyards Through a virtual conversation, I asked Piera to share her story behind the inception of the Blu Giovello brand and the dragonfly’s symbolism. Piera: “Blu Giovello brand came to life 25 years ago from a four-hands project between our winery and our US importer, with whom we are still working! His expertise in the US market and our contribution of wine and ideas allowed us to develop a very successful brand. What we wanted to convey is a symbol of Italian style, made in Italy. Speaking of the single details, the origin of the name Giovello comes from the combination of the Italian words Giovane (young) and Bello (beautiful). The flying dragonfly is a symbol of harmony and prosperity. I wanted to put all the lightness, joy, and elegance of the dragonfly as an invitation to celebrate life and freedom from conventions. Blu refers to the wine’s origins. The blue color of the bottle refers to one of Italy’s typical colors, reminding us of the intense color of the sky and the waves of the Mediterranean Sea.” The brand’s wines have increased by 35% over the last five years and 90,000 cases sold worldwide. In addition to the Pinot Grigio DOC and Prosecco DOC Frizzante that I received, the Blue Giovello line also includes Prosecco DOC Extra Dry Spumante, Prosecco Rosé Sparkling, a still Rosé, and a still and sparkling Moscato. Reviews  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Blu Giovello Pinot Grigio DOC Delle Venezie
The grapes for this wine are 100% Pinot Grigio and are sourced from vineyards at 656 ft. above sea level. Delle Venezie is widely known for its production of light and crisp Pinot Grigio. Fluctuation in temperature between day and night adds to the development of aromatics in the skin. And the breezy and cool climate coming from the Alps help to maintain fresh acidity in the wines. Aromas: Citrus, pear, and a hint of floral Palate: Tart apples, melon, and a touch of white stone fruit. It is refreshing, crisp, and light. Serve with soft cheese, grilled chicken, or seafood. Alcohol: 12% SRP: $9.99 Piera said, “It is simply a must-have!” Blu Giovello Prosecco DOC Frizzante This wine is made with 100% Glera grapes sourced from the hills between the Dolomites and Venice in the Prosecco DOC area of production. The vineyards are at 1312 ft. above sea level. Situated between the Adriatic Sea and the Dolomites, the vineyards enjoy a unique microclimate that contributes to this wine’s characteristic flavors. The Charmat method is used for production, with the second fermentation taking place in stainless steel tanks for about one month. Aromas: Floral and fruit with apples and citrus Palate: Fine bubbles, peach, lemon zest, apple, and toast with a hint of minerality and crisp acidity. Serve as an aperitif or with light fare. Alcohol: 11% SRP: $11.99 Piera said, “It is the flagship of Italian sparkling wine!” Before Piera and I said our virtual good-byes, I asked her how climate change and Covid have impacted her and the challenges she might be facing in the vineyards and winery. Piera on climate change: Climate change is affecting all of us. We were among the first wineries to embrace a sustainable approach. We have been investing for more than twenty years in sustainable viticulture, believing in its huge potential: avoiding chemicals as much as possible, respecting the land and the vine. We were among the first in Italy to invest in a green productive process; we have always embraced technology that will enable us to preserve each wine’s typical features, such as using microfiltration. Furthermore, over the years, we have installed a photovoltaic system that allows us to produce almost all the energy we need in the production processes. We have created a water treatment plant that allows us to depurate the wastewater coming from the production process so that it can be used again, and we have chosen to use lighter bottles. Our sustainable approach also involves packaging. When possible, we use recycled materials.” Piera on Covid: “Working with both the on- and off-trade channels, we were able to close 2020 at the same level as 2019. We have seen an increase in sales on the off-trade channel and monopolies (Canada and Sweden) and an inevitable decrease in the on-trade sales. We embraced all the challenges requested in order to offer the best safeguard conditions for all our team. We provided masks and made sure there was enough space for everybody to carry out their work in a totally safe environment, and we adopted home working for all those who could work from home. The winery is the people, they are the beating heart of it, and we have to preserve it.” Piera also spoke about the future. “A lot has been done already, but we still have much to do to keep up with the best green standards. The winery aims to keep prioritizing this aspect through investments, granting both wine quality and the sustainability of production processes that respect the environment and the people involved. We give thanks to what the land offers, and we owe her the greatest respect.” With spring around the corner, these are delightful and light wines to enjoy while sitting outside and watching the dance of the dragonflies! Until next time... Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at [email protected] Blame it on the snow and frigid temperatures, but I’ve been popping the cork on many delicious red wine wines of late. As you may know from past posts, I enjoy white, rosé, and sparkling wine all year round. However, this winter, I’ve been indulging my palate with some very expressive red wines.  Photo credit: Max Tutak Unsplash Here are eight reviews of red wines that will surely have your palate singing! Australia McGuigan Wines, ‘The Plan’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 McGuigan Wines is a major wine producer in Australia. Their family roots date back to 1880 in Hunter Valley with Perc McGuigan, who set the standard for future generations. Grapes for this 100% Cabernet are sourced from top-quality vineyards in South Eastern Australia, including McLaren Vale, Langhorne Creek, and Barossa Valley. The fruit is harvested at night, and after fermentation, it is matured in stainless steel tanks and oak before final blending.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Aromas of blackberry, cherry, chocolate, and hints of baking spice segue onto the palate with a hint of cranberry and herbs. This fruit-driven wine has refreshing acidity and firm tannins with hints of warm toasted oak. It is a steal at this price! Serve with roasts, grilled tuna, and dark chocolate desserts. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $10.99 Italy Bertani Valpolicella DOC 2018 Bertani has been producing wine for over 150 years and has an impressive 200 hectares of vineyards in the most ideal areas of Verona province in the Veneto region, which is famous worldwide for wines such as Valpolicella, Soave, and Amarone. This wine is a blend of 80% Corvina Veronese and 20% Rondinella. Grapes are harvested from the heart of the Valpolicella Classico area and the Valpantena vineyards near the municipality of Grezzana. The wine is aged for eight months in concrete vats covered with glass bricks to allow slow and gradual aging. It is then further aged for a minimum of three months in the bottle.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Aromas of plum, sour cherry, red berries, pepper, and baking spice continue onto the palate. This wine has nice acidity and a good balance between juicy fruity and savory. Sour cherry and raspberry linger on the finish. Pair with hearty stews, braised meat, pasta, and semi-aged cheese. Alcohol: 12% SRP: $16.49 Spain Bela, Ribera del Duero DO 2017 One of Rioja’s most iconic wine producers, CVNE (pronounced coo-nay), is an acronym for Compania Vinicola del Norte des Espana. CVNE has expanded its territory to include a 182-acre estate in Ribera del Duero in northern Spain with the focus of bringing their Rioja elegance to the rugged Ribera del Duero region. Grapes for this 100% Tempranillo are sourced from Ribera del Duero region. The climate here leans toward continental with a complexity of soils throughout the region. This wine is aged for six months in American and French, new and one-year-old oak barrels.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Intense aromas of dark fruit, floral, baking spice, and a touch of earth set the stage for this terroir-driven wine. The palate is layered with dark berries, dark cherry, plum, spice, anise, and a hint of minerality. Vanilla and pepper linger on a long finish. This is a graceful wine with soft tannins and brimming with character. It is an easy wine to pair with a wide range of cuisine. Alcohol: 14% SRP: $19 Portugal Esporão Reserva Red 2016 Alentejo wine region is situated in the southern half of Portugal and covers one-third of the country. It is one of Portugal’s largest wine production areas. Herdade Do Esporão, whose history dates back over 750 years ago, first introduced this wine in 1985. It is a blend of Aragonez, Trincadeira, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Alicante Bouschet. Grapes are sourced from vineyards with soil of granite/schist origin and clay/loam structure. This wine is aged for 12 months in American oak (60%) and French oak (40%) barrels, and then an additional six months in the bottle.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss It begins with a rich bouquet of cherry, raspberry, blackberry, plum, and baking spice. The palate is entertained with lush dark fruit jam, spice, and a hint of plum. Smooth tannins and a long berry finish add to the richness of this wine. Pair with grilled or braised meat and game, stews, tapas, and codfish. Alcohol: 14.5% SRP: $24 Sicily Donnafugata Sherazade Sicilia DOC 2018 The Rallo family owns the iconic Donnafugata, and their family history of winemaking dates back to 1851. They have several wineries and over 405 hectares of vineyards located throughout Sicily, including historic aging cellars at their Marsala winery. Nero d’Avola is an indigenous grape that is considered Sicily’s most important red wine grape. Sherazade is 100% Nero d’Avola and the grapes are sourced from Donnafugata’s Contessa Entellina Estate and nearby vineyards, which are located in the southwestern part of Sicily. The wine is aged for about four months in tanks and then a minimum of three months in the bottle.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Delectable aromas of violets, red fruit, and spice open to a lovely palate of cherry, plum, berries, and spice. Well-balanced tannins and acid add to the character of this fresh and lively wine, along with a touch of pepper and tartness on a long finish. Serve with mature cheese, pasta and red sauce, seared tuna, and calamari. Alcohol: 13% SRP: $25 California Au Contraire Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast 2019 Sonoma County’s Au Contraire winery was inspired by Taub Family vineyards company founder, David S. Taub. The grapes for this Pinot Noir are sourced from top Sonoma Coast vineyards, from Sebastopol to the Fort Ross Seaview AVA. Although these are warmer vineyard sites, they sit above the fog line generating a cool-climate style Pinot Noir with highly concentrated fruit flavors. The wine is aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, 35% new.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Juicy aromas of cherry, red berries, plum, and a hint of floral segue onto the palate with strawberry and cherry leading the parade of flavors. This is a silky wine with lots of ripe fruit and bright acidity. Serve with roasted meat, fowl, spicy Asian cuisine, and soft cheese. Alcohol: 14.2% SRP: $26.99 Argentina Bodegas Salentein Numina Gran Corte 2016 Bodegas Salentein is located in the Uco Valley of Mendoza, Argentina. Many of their vineyards are situated at some of the highest elevations in the world. This privately-owned estate was established in the late 1990s and boasts almost 5000 acres, of which 1,124 acres are planted to vine. The Numina Gran Corte is a blend of 61% Malbec, 21% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, 7% Petit Verdot, and 3% Cabernet Franc. Grapes are hand-harvested from small selected plots. Fermentation takes place in 7000-liter oak casks and then aged for 16 months in French oak barrels.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss This wine opens with subtle violet aromas, plum, dark berries, spice, and a trace of vanilla. The palate offers a fresh and elegant layering of blackberry, raspberry, plum, baking spice, and a touch of earth. This is a beautifully integrated blend with a silky mouthfeel and a long finish. Pair with grilled meat, seared tuna, hearty stews, and casseroles. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $40.99 France Jean-Luc Colombo Cornas “Terres Brûlées” 2018 Jean-Luc Colombo winery is located in the northern appellation of Cornas in the Rhône Valley, France. Cornas is the smallest appellation in the Rhône Valley, consisting of approximately 325 acres, and is dedicated to producing only red wine from the Syrah grape. The Mediterranean climate and decomposed granite soils contribute to the richness and character of these wines. Terres Brûlées means “burnt earth”, which refers to the long hot days here that are balanced by the cool nights. Grapes are hand-harvested from 30+ -year-old vines. The wine is aged for 21 months in oak barrels (10% new, 90% one-to-five-year old barrels).  Photo credit: Penny Weiss This 100% Syrah wine has enticing aromas of dark cherry, dark berries, dark plum, spice, and hints of baking spice. The palate is rich with blackberry, plum, and black cherry, reminiscent of exotic jam. Notes of vanilla, cocoa, spice, and a trace of minerality linger on a long finish. A truly noteworthy wine! Pair with white meat, game, seared tuna, and hearty stews.
Alcohol: 14.5% SRP: $63.99 No matter what time of year,, these wines will pair beautifully with any season! Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at [email protected] This story was originally published on Santé Magazine. We all have rituals that we perform day in and day out without batting an eye. I kick start every morning with a ritual of pouring a cup of coffee and then crawling back into bed with it to peruse the news. Rituals can be as simple as a morning run, yoga meditation, telling your child a bedtime story, or prayers over a meal. Many of our rituals go beyond ourselves and transcend to our families, religion, spiritual practices, and holidays.  Photo courtesy of Unsplash.com With Covid lurking around every corner, many life rituals and daily routines have been disrupted and are now temporarily on hold. Many of us have established new rituals and routines to take their place. Breathing is something I always took for granted until Covid brought it to my attention. And now, one of my new daily rituals is 10 minutes of deep breathing exercises to strengthen my lungs and calm my soul. For others, it might be inventing new ways to celebrate rites of passage, or writing in a journal. Since getting together online has become the “new norm”, several of my friends and colleagues have established cocktail hour rituals. Of course, one of my favorite rituals that I can continue despite Covid is pouring a glass of wine or spirits at the end of the day and doing a big exhale! So, I was most delighted when I recently received a shipment of wines named Ritual! I love the name and how fitting for this new chapter we are living in.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Ritual wines are produced from the Viñedos Veramonte organic estate. It is located in the extreme eastern end of Chile’s Casablanca Valley wine region.  Photo courtesy of Ritual Wines With respect to Chile’s other wine regions, Casablanca Valley is relatively new. The first vineyards were planted here in the 1980s during Chile’s revitalization of its viticulture industry.  Casablanca Valley wine region is about 20 miles long from east to west and is close to the Pacific Ocean. The vineyards for Ritual wine benefit from the cool morning fog and cloud cover. In addition, the cool sea breezes of the Pacific Ocean alleviate the heat of the day.  Photo courtesy of Ritual Wines Soil composition is a combination of decomposed granite soil, with a top layer of red volcanic clay. This soil allows the vines to go deep and absorb minerality, which reflects in the wines. With hot days and cold nights and a lengthier ripening period, the white grapes have more time to develop more complexity, flavor and maintain a good balance of sugar and acidity. These are ideal growing conditions for cool climate wines, and Casablanca Valley is noted for producing outstanding Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Cool climate red grapes also do very well here, such as Pinot Noir and Syrah. Fortunately, Covid has not interrupted the winery’s rituals and organic practices from the vineyard to the winemaking process. To quote from their website, “Crafting fine wine is steeped in Ritual and grounded in terroir. We endeavor in creating beautiful wines that are a reflection of this special place. Ritual is a labor of love. It connects us to the land we farm, to healthy living soil, and to the daily rituals of artisanal winemaking.”  Photo courtesy of Ritual Wines All the vineyards of the Viñedos Veramonte estate have organic certifications. Using low-impact farming methods, they make their own compost from the stems and pomace gathered during harvest season and manure from local animals to promote a balanced and self-regulated ecosystem. Cover cropping and seeding are practiced for revitalizing the soils. Sheep are used to “mow the grass” and also function as natural fertilizers.  Photo courtesy of Ritual Wines Grapes are hand-harvested in small batches, and once in the winery, only native yeasts are used to obtain a” natural balance and greater purity”. Different containers are used in the winemaking process, each one adding a unique characteristic to the wines. Oak barrels are used for structure, concrete eggs for texture, stainless steel drums for freshness, and stainless steel tanks for aromatics. Winemaker Sofia Araya produces Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Noir. These wines are aged in combinations of neutral oak, concrete eggs, and stainless steel tanks. Ritual Sauvignon Blanc 2019 30% of this wine is fermented in concrete eggs, 30% in neutral oak, and 40% in stainless steel tanks. The wine is then aged in each of its containers for eight to ten months, with each vessel contributing aromatics, flavors, and textures.  Photo credit: Penny Wess This is a fresh and aromatic wine with aromas of floral, citrus, and white stone fruit that segue onto the palate with vibrant acidity, and hints of minerality. Citrus and nectarine linger on a long finish. Drink as an aperitif or pair with seafood, light pasta, and salads. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $19.99 Ritual Chardonnay 2018 This wine is fermented in 20% concrete eggs, 20% new 400-liter barrels, and 60% neutral oak.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Amazing aromas of lemon curd, white stone fruit, and a touch of vanilla, spill onto the palate with a hint of oak. It is beautifully balanced with acidity and notes of salinity and minerality. This wine is fresh, lively, and elegant! Serve with cheese, light pasta, seafood, grilled fish, or chicken. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $20.99 Ritual Pinot Noir 2017 This wine is fermented with wild yeasts to enhance its depth, intensity, and complexity. It is aged for 11 months in French oak barrels, 20% new.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss From aroma to the palate, this wine delivers “fresh and juicy”. One is greeted with aromas of cherries, berries, and floral. The palate offers raspberry, strawberry, cherry, notes of integrated oak, and a silky smooth mouthfeel. This is a fresh, well-balanced, and expressive wine. Serve with seared tuna, pasta, fowl, and spicy Asian cuisine. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $20.99 In addition to the wines, I was gifted a “Rituals and Wellness” journal. Written on the cover are these words, “An Intentional Journal For Mindful Rituals & Wellness Intentions”. It is a perfect journal for an imperfect time. We are embarking on a new year that will surely bring more changes in our lives. We will find more new rituals, and hopefully, rediscover old ones again. Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at [email protected] Every now and then, I receive wine samples from producers that I have written about previously. They might be new vintages, new blends, or an introduction to a new brand. Because I always like to tell a story about the winery, history, the land, the winemaker, etc. along with my review, it can get a little repetitive. With that in mind, please select from the menu at right for a more in-depth look at Domaine Bousquet, Argentina’s largest exporter of organically grown wines. The winery is located in the Gualtallary Valley, situated high up in the Tupungato district of the Uco Valley. Altitudes here reach up to 5,249 ft.  Photo is courtesy of Domain Bousquet. Domaine Bousquet has an impressive portfolio of wines that include their nicely priced Gaia collection. I have reviewed several wines from the Gaia line, but here are two new and noteworthy red wines from this collection.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss The label for these wines is a striking portrayal of Gaia, who in Greek mythology is the mother goddess presiding over the earth. It is a fitting name for wines produced from all organic grapes! Gaia Cabernet Franc 2018 This vintage is 100% Cabernet Franc. Grapes are hand-harvested from vineyards that sit at 4000 ft. altitude. The wine is aged in French oak for ten months. It is quite aromatic with notes of dark berries, plum, and floral. The palate offers blackberry, dark plum, pomegranate, spice, and a hint of minerality. Medium tannins and acidity round out this juicy wine. Serve with grilled meat, hearty stews, cheese, and chocolate desserts. Alcohol: 15% SRP: $20  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Gaia Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Grapes for this 100% Cabernet Sauvignon are hand-harvested from vineyards that sit at 4000 ft. altitude. This wine is aged in French oak between eight and ten months. Intense aromas of dark berries, dark cherry, vanilla, and a touch of minerality set the stage for this expressive wine. The palate offers red and black berries, dark plum, baking spice, and a hint of chocolate. This is another juicy wine with beautiful structure, smooth tannins, and a lengthy finish. Serve with grilled meat, seared tuna, hearty pasta, and cheese. Alcohol: 15% SRP: $20 Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at [email protected] This isn’t my first story or review of wines from the diverse wine region of Alentejo. These expressive wines are impressive and never disappoint my palate.  Photo courtesy of portugal-live.net For those of you who are unfamiliar with the Alentejo wine region, here is a quick recap.  Alentejo is situated in the southern half of Portugal and covers one-third of the country. This wine region is one of Portugal’s largest production areas. It is divided into eight sub-regions as seen on the map below.  For the most part, Alentejo enjoys a typically Mediterranean climate with some Atlantic influence. However, the sub-region of Portalegre experiences much cooler temperatures due to its proximity to the mountains. The terrain throughout Alentejo is mostly flat with gently rolling hills, and the soil varies throughout its eight sub-regions. In fact, it has the most diverse soil of any region in Portugal. Interspersed amongst the mountains, hills, and valleys, one can find soil with clay, limestone, quartz, granite, schist, sandstone, and marble. Most of the soils are non-calcareous, meaning they are neutral or more acidic. Alentejo has 51,000 acres of planted vines that enjoy 3000 hours of sunshine annually. More than 80% of the grapes grown here are red, but whites are gaining momentum, especially Antão Vaz. The wines produced here come in a range of styles, influenced by the diversity of the climate and soil. For over 2000 years, blending has been a tradition for Alentejo winemakers. With over 250 indigenous grape varieties and 14 regional wine areas, Portugal rates as the highest density of native grapes per square mile in the entire world. Imagine the blending creativity winemakers have with all these varieties at hand. With so many grapes ripening at different times, winemakers have turned what might be considered a liability into an opportunity to create beautifully blended wines. Below are five samples of red blend-based wines from Alentejo.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Herdade São Miguel Colheita Seleccionada Red 2017 This wine is produced by Casa Relvas located in the Evora sub-region. It is a blend of 50% Alicante Bouschet, 30% Touriga Nacional, 10% Syrah, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. 2017 was the third year of drought in Alentejo, but fortunately, due to the vines growing on clay and schist soil, they withstood the drought. Grapes are harvested in the evening when they are their most ripe. 50% of the wine was aged in French oak for four months.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Lovely aromas of red and black fruits are inviting, with plum, raspberry, and spice thrown in. Aromas continue onto the palate with juicy dark cherry, blackberry, and a touch of herbs and earth. Bright acidity and firm tannins add to this beautifully blended wine. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $15 Adega De Borba Reserva Red 2015, DOC Alentejo Produced in the sub-region of Borba, this wine is a blend of 30% Trincadeira, 30% Alicante Bouschet, 20% Aragonez, and 20% Castelão. The grapes originate from old vines that grow in chalky-clay and schist. The blend is aged for 12 months in 3rd and 4th-year French oak and wooden barrels and another six months in the bottle. It opens with aromas that are reminiscent of rich dark jam, berries, and baking spice. The palate offers a wonderful balance of sweet and tart, with notes of sour cherry, plum, chocolate, and smooth tannins. Flavors linger on a long finish. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $18 Esporão Reserva Red 2016 Herdade Do Esporão first introduced this wine in 1985. It is a blend of Aragonez, Trincadeira, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Alicante Bouschet. Grapes are sourced from vineyards with soil of granite/schist origin and clay/loam structure. This wine is aged for 12 months in American oak (60%) and French oak (40%) barrels, and then an additional six months in the bottle.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss It begins with a rich bouquet of cherry, raspberry, blackberry, plum and baking spice. The palate is entertained with lush dark fruit jam, spice, and a hint of plum. Smooth tannins and a long berry finish add to the richness of this wine. Alcohol: 14.5% SRP: $24 Cartuxa, Tinto 2016, DOC Évora This is a historic winery with origins dating back to 1598. Carthusian monks who established the Santa Maria Scala Coeli Monastery were the first to make wine in Cartuxa. This wine is a blend of 40% Aragonez, 40% Alicante Bouschet and 20% Trincadeira. Grapes are sourced from vineyards with vines that average about 30-years of age, on soil of granite and schist. The wine is aged for 12 months in French oak barrels and then an additional nine months in the bottle. Heady aromas of floral, dark berries, earth, spice, and toasty notes segue onto the palate with a touch of cocoa. It is beautifully structured with fine tannins. Alcohol: 14% SRP: $25 Carmin Reguengos Garrafeira Dos Sócios 2014 Founded in 1971, the Cooperativa Agricola de Reguengos de Monsaraz is the largest winery in Alentejo. Vineyards for this elegant wine date back to the Middle Ages and surround the historic village of Monsaraz in the sub-region of Reguengos. 65% Alicante Bouschet, 20% Touriga Nacional and 15%Tinta Caiada make up the blend for this robust wine. It is aged for 14 months in French and American oak barrels. After aging, the wine is bottled and laid down for at least one year before release.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss This wine has a seductive bouquet of ripe plum, dark fruit, and spice that spills onto the palate. It is a richly textured wine with added notes of blackberry, black cherry, earth, and pepper. The finish is long and graceful, with smooth tannins and fine acidity.
Alcohol: 14.5% SRP: $48 All of these wines are beautiful blends representing the magic and artistry of the winemakers in Alentejo. The structure, complexity, and expressiveness are manifested in each bottle. Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at [email protected] “It’s the friends we meet who help us appreciate the journey”. Mon Frère Winery  Photo courtesy of Mon Frère Winery Mon Frère means ‘my brother’ in French, and the Mon Frère Winery dedicates their three wines to special and rare friends who feel like family. Located in Napa, CA, the winery is a partnership between legendary winemaker, Tom Hinde and family-owned wine and spirits organization Palm Bay International. Tom Hinde, head winemaker, brings his 30+ years of knowledge and talent for California wines to the table.  Tom Hinde Photo courtesy of Palm Bay International The winery sources the best quality grapes throughout California’s wine regions, selecting different clones of the same grape. For their Chardonnay, grapes are chosen and blended from the coastal region’s Lodi, Mendocino and Monterey vineyards. Pinot Noir is a blend of grapes from the Sonoma Coast, Santa Rita Hills, and the highlands of Santa Barbara and Santa Lucia. Mon Frère wanted to focus on making the Cabernet Sauvignon as versatile as possible. Grapes are sourced from vineyards in Napa, Sonoma, and Mendocino (coast) and blended with grapes from vineyards in Lodi and Paso Robles. I received a sample of the Cabernet Sauvignon, and now I can't wait to try their Pinot Noir and Chardonnay!  Photo credit: Penny Weiss  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Mon Frère Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 As stated above, the grapes are sourced from different vineyards and locations. The climate is a mixture of warmer Mediterranean areas and cooler coastal areas giving this wine a nice balance between structure, freshness, and fruit. Grapes are pressed and undergo fermentation separately. After they are blended, the wine ages in a mix of French oak (90%) and American oak (10% new).  Photo credit: Penny Weiss This wine is a beautiful and inviting garnet color. Juicy aromas of dark cherry, dark berries, baking spice, and toasty notes segue onto the palate. Rich, ripe fruit with plum, spice, and oak notes dance on the palate. Silky tannins contribute to the fine structure and expression of this wine. Pair with grilled meat, seared tuna, hearty pasta, and stews.
Alcohol: 13.9% SRP: $16.99 I will end this story with a quote from the back of the wine bottle. “At Mon Frère, French for “My Brother”, we think it’s important to hit the pause button occasionally to appreciate the cast of characters who brush you off, build you up and remind you to laugh! So whether you roll with rogues or saints, take a moment and raise a glass of Cabernet with the friends that make life’s crazy journey all worthwhile.” I’ll drink to that! Until next time… Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at [email protected] It is a New Year and with it brings new beginnings, new hopes, and the anticipation of being able to travel again. In the meantime, I am continuing my virtual journey to wine regions around the world.  Photo courtesy of Castello di Fonterutoli My visit today is to Castello di Fonterutoli located in the beautiful region of Tuscany in central Italy. Centered in the heart of the Chianti Classico zone, Castello di Fonterutoli’s property stretches across 1600 acres, with seven areas under vine for a total of 290 acres throughout three districts. These districts within the territory of Chianti Classico are Castellina in Chianti, Castelnuovo Berardenga, and Radda in Chianti.   The Mazzei family dates back to the 11th century. They originally came from Florence where they made a living as coopers and artisans. The first documented reference to Chianti as a production region dates back to 1398 between Ser Lapo Mazzei, a notary and connoisseur of wine, and Francesco Datini, a merchant from Prato. In this document, authored by Ser Lapo Mazzei, he paid for six barrels of wine from Chianti. In 1435, Ser Lapo Mazzei’s granddaughter, Madonna Smeralda Mazzei, married Piero di Agnolo da Fonterutoli, and Castello di Fonterutoli became part of the Mazzei family’s estate. For the past 24 generations, the Mazzei family has been producing wines at Castello di Fonterutoli.  Photo courtesy of Castello di Fonterutoli The Sangiovese grape is the most planted grape variety in Italy, and Tuscany’s largest and best-known Sangiovese-dominant wine region is Chianti. Depending on where the grapes are grown, with climate and soil being a factor, Sangiovese can deliver a wine that is fruit-forward with bright acidity and high tannins or lean towards earthy with herbal notes. It runs the gamut of descriptions, but one of Sangiovese’s trademarks is its dark cherry flavor. Last month I attended a virtual tasting with Giovanni Mazzei who represents the 25th generation of this family-owned winery. He is the export director for Mazzei and the eldest son of Fillippo Mazzei who is one of the managing directors of the estate.  Giovanni Mazzei Photo courtesy of Castello di Fonterutoli Beginning with the 2017 harvest, the Mazzei family introduced a different perspective to express the biodiversity of their Sangiovese-based range of wines. Giovanni guided us through a tasting of the estate’s three Chianti Classico Gran Selezione wines from three different terroirs, with each wine exhibiting its own unique character. In addition, Giovanni shared a soon-to-be-released bottle of Siepi Toscana IGT 2018.  Virtual Tasting Photo credit: Penny Weiss Giovanni said, “For the last 50 years, we have been dedicated to research to better understand Sangiovese evolution. We have an articulated estate with so many differences from one location to another. The vineyards range from two meters above sea level to almost 600 meters with different terrain and different climates. You can’t have just one solution for everything. It is a massive puzzle! There is beautiful diversity in this region, with each district exhibiting its own characteristics. Our aim is to reflect the viticulture of the region.” As of 2014, Gran Selezione is a new classification above Riserva for Chianti Classico DOCG. A minimum of 80% Sangiovese estate-grown grapes is required. Grapes must be harvested only from the winery’s own vineyards along with upgraded requirements for alcohol, extract, and a minimum aging of 30 months. Giovanni said, “At the end of the day, the rules aren’t really making the wine. It is the winemakers and how they envision the wine and how it is expressed. Gran Selezione is the best of the best. The quality is phenomenal. Only 6% of Chianti Classico DOCG production has qualified so far for the Gran Selezione level. It is a game-changer!”  Photo credit: Penny Weiss All vineyard cultivation is entirely manual, including the grape harvest. Badiòla Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG 2017 100% Sangiovese grapes were harvested from the estate’s highest altitude vineyards of 570 meters in the Chianti municipality of Radda. Soil is mainly a mix of Galestro (local lime marl) and sandstone. The average vine age is 16 years. The vines benefit from ventilating winds with lower temperatures than any other estate vineyard. The wine goes through natural fermentation, with no yeast added. It is aged for 24 months in French oak barrels from Burgundy (30% new) and then ages further in the bottle.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss This is a fresh and elegant wine with lovely aromas of fresh berries, cherry, and spice. The palate offers red fruit, cherry, plum, spice, chalk, and silky tannins. The wine is well integrated with a long finish of sour cherry, spice, and a hint of cocoa. Giovanni said, “I’m a big fan of this wine. It has complexity with austere character, typical from Radda.” Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $99 Castello Fonterutoli Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG 2017 This is the estate’s flagship wine made from a selection of 11 of the best vineyard plots surrounding the Fonterutoli hamlet in the Chianti municipality of Castellina. The age of vines is between 25 to 30 years. The altitude is 470 meters above sea level with rocky limestone, chalk, and rich skeleton texture. The wine was first produced in 1995 and is a forerunner for Gran Selezione. The 2017 vintage is the first vintage to use 100% Sangiovese. Each plot is individually vinified, and the wine is then aged in Burgundy and Bordeaux barrels for 25 months and then six months in concrete tanks before bottling.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss This is a wine with structure and elegance. Delicious aromas of wild berries, violet, lavender, cherry, and earth lead the way for an explosion of flavors on the palate. Cherry, dark fruit, vanilla, licorice, spice, and minerality blend with silky tannins. This wine is rich and crisp. Giovanni says, “It is an energetic wine. The juice gives a sense of purity. It is a pure Sangiovese”. Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $74 Vicoregio 36 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG 2017 This wine is a blend of 36 different Sangiovese biotypes derived from fifty years of research. The biotypes are planted in a single vineyard at 350 meters above sea level on a sunny plateau of Castelnuovo Berardenga. Soil is clay-rich limestone and fossil matter. Thirty-six individual vinifications take place in French oak barrels, and then the wine is aged for 18 months in French oak barrels (50% new). This is followed by several months in concrete tanks.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss Seductive aromas of cherries, spice, and floral envelops the nose. The palate is layered with rich and expressive flavors of dark cherry, dark fruit, lavender, spice, herbs, pepper, and earth. Chewy tannins, with lingering spice and dark cherry, add to a long and delicious finish. This is a vibrant and complex wine. Giovanni says, “This wine is the heart beating from Vicoregio.” Alcohol: 13.5% SRP: $99 Siepi Toscana IGT 2018 There is an interesting story attached to this wine. The first vintage was in 1992. It is a 50/50 blend of Sangiovese and Merlot. According to Giovanni, the family fought over how to produce this wine. The older generation wanted it made with mostly Sangiovese, and the younger generation wanted it made with 100% Merlot. A compromise was made, and a 50/50 blend was produced. The grapes are sourced from 10 to 35- year-old vines in the Siepi vineyard that has belonged to the Mazzei family since 1435. The Mazzei family was one of the first producers to plant Merlot in Chianti Classico. Each variety goes through a gentle vinification. 70% of the wines are aged in new French barriques (Merlot: 18 months, Sangiovese: 16 months), and then they are blended and aged an additional four months in steel tanks. The wine is bottle-aged for four months before release.  Photo credit: Penny Weiss This wine opens with aromas of dark fruit, cherries, berries ,and subtle notes of spice, cocoa, and herbs. The palate is an infusion of delightful layers of dark cherry, dark berries, spice, hints of plum, vanilla, and toast. Silky tannins add to this rich and complex wine. Giovanni says, “This wine is very approachable and has great drinkability.” Alcohol: 14.5% SRP: $130 Although I was thousands of miles away from Tuscany, it was exciting to take a virtual trip through all of the vineyards with Giovanni. The character and uniqueness of each municipality were beautifully captured in each bottle of wine. For a brief moment in time, my palate enjoyed “traversing through the terroirs of Castello di Fonterutoli”.  Photo courtesy of Castello di Fonterutoli Until next time…
Cheers! Penina To leave a comment or if you have an inquiry, please contact me at [email protected] |
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