Wine With Wanda

Sipping Pretty: Luna Nuda Pinot Grigio 2015

This summer my palate has been on an adventure to discover Pinot Grigio that isn't bland, boring, and blah! Mission accomplished - I've been absolutely delighted with a few lovely wines that prove that Pinot Grigio, in the hands of talented and committed winemakers, can elegantly display flavor and finesse. One vino that I really enjoyed is Luna Nuda Pinot Grigio 2015 ($14.99); it is the antithesis of mediocre & mass-produced Pinot Grigio.

Luna Nuda means "naked moon" and is an ode to the mystical energy of the moon's influence on the vineyards. Produced by the 4th generation Giovanett family of Castelfeder Winery from grapes grown on their estate in the mountainous region of Alto Adige in northern Italy, Luna Nuda nakedly expresses the terroir and essence of the grapes. Aromatic with rich notes of green apples and pears, this dry and mineral-driven wine refreshes the palate with crisp flavors of apple, citrus, slate, and a touch of almonds - a beautiful taste of Alto Adige. Pair with moonlit nights, fun-loving friends, and light meals of fish and mild cheeses. Give Luna Nuda a swirl and say arrivederci to boring Pinot Grigio!

Get Swept Away to Sicily with the Wines of Donnafugata!

 

I have yet to set foot on Sicilian soil but my taste buds have traveled there courtesy of Donnafugata wines. One of Sicily's most respected wineries and celebrated throughout Italy, Donnafugata was founded in 1983 by the Rallo family - a visionary family with 160 years of experience in producing premium wines. The patriarch of the family, Giacomo Rallo, passed away just a few months ago; but his wife Gabriella, son Antonio, and daughter José are carrying on the Donnafugata legacy.


Siblings Antonio (winemaker) and José (communications manager) are carrying on the Rallo family's Donnafugata legacy.
image courtesy of Donnafugata

Donnafugata's portfolio includes an impressive array of wines that vividly express the terroir of Sicily and the passion of the Rallo family. To get started, I recommend two Donnafugata wines that are perfect for steamy summer days and nights - SurSur and Sherazade. But consider yourself warned - the name Donnafugata literally means "woman in flight".  After a glass or two, you may be inspired to hop the next flight to Sicily!



Donnafugata SurSur 2015 Grillo Sicilia DOC ($20)
SurSur is a sunny and vibrant expression of Grillo - one of Sicily's most important white grape varieties. The playful name SurSur means cricket and comes from Arabic, which was once spoken in Sicily. Like an energetic cricket, this refreshing wine leaps across the palate with juicy flavors of white peach, grapefruit, and tropical fruits with an appealing hint of herbs and crisp minerality. A lovely way to quench your thirst on a hot summer day, SurSur is an elegant apéritif and a fantastic match with light seafood and vegetable dishes.



Donnafugata Sherazade 2015 Nero d'Avola Sicilia DOC ($20)
 I invited a dear friend to share this lovely bottle of Sherazade and I drank way more than my fair share - blame it on the vino, it was delicious! Nero d'Avola is Sicily's most important indigenous red grape and has a reputation for producing big and bold wines. Sherazade is quite different and shows the playful and more approachable side of Nero d'Avola. Named after the protagonist of the literary classic One Thousand and One Nights, Sherazade is fruity with silky tannins. A wonderful summer red, serve Sherazade slightly chilled to really capture its juicy flavors of red cherries with touches of orange peel, cranberry, and spice. Pair with rich pastas, pizza, salumi, and baked fish. 



winery images courtesy of Donnafugata

If you're planning a trip to Sicily, Donnafugata welcomes visitors for tours and tastings. Until then, fill your glass and let their wines transport you. Cheers!

 

J'adore Jadot: Elegant & Easygoing Chardonnay and Beaujolais

Add some ooh la la to your weekend with lovely wines from Maison Louis Jadot. Founded in 1859, Jadot is one of the most respected wine producers in France's celebrated Burgundy region. Their portfolio is quite exceptional but you don't have to spend a fortune for the Jadot experience. Here are two less expensive, but still elegant, Jadot wines that are perfect for casual but chic wining & dining!

Louis Jadot Mâcon-Villages Chardonnay 2014 ($14.99)
Such a pretty Chardonnay! Unoaked, the beauty and honest flavor of the grape shines through in every sip. Vivacious and refreshing with expressive flavors of green apple, citrus, and crisp minerality. A fantastic match with shellfish, scallops, shrimp, grilled tuna, and salad.


Louis Jadot Beaujolais-Villages 2014 ($13.99)
This earthy and juicy 100% Gamay red wine is absolutely delicious when served slightly chilled on a hot day. Each sip reveals more layers of flavor - plum, black cherry, violet, strawberry, and a touch of spice. Pair with poultry, charcuterie, or Salade Niçoise. 

Related articles

Go Gaga for Gamay: Discover Beaujolais Wines

Get the Party Started with Prosecco: Sparkling Wine at a Great Price

Nothing gets the party started like the sound of a cork popping but only a lucky few have budgets that can support Champagne for every occasion! When you want the festive drama of Champagne without breaking the bank, Prosecco is a delicious option. Italy's most famous sparkling wine, Prosecco is made from the Glera grape and pairs beautifully with more casual celebrations. From weekend brunch to pool parties, here are two Prosecco suggestions that will get your party popping.


Tommasi Prosecco Tenuta Filodora DOC ($18)
This is not your average Prosecco. Produced from 100% Glera grapes that are grown on one small estate, Tommasi Tenuta Filodora Prosecco is a beautifully crafted wine that I wouldn't hesitate to serve at a dressy summer luncheon. Elegant and crisp, its fine bubbles glide across the palate and refreshes it with lively flavors of citrus and white peach with a subtle hint of vanilla bean and almond on the finish.



Astoria Prosecco DOC Treviso ($13.99)
The bottle inspired by Venice's famous Murano glass is quite flashy but Astoria Prosecco DOC Treviso has an appealingly classic flavor. Produced from Glera grapes grown on the hills of the Astoria estate, this sparkling wine is extra dry and crisp with subtle flavors of pear and green apple - a refreshing apéritif on a steamy day. Astoria was named Prosecco Winery of the Year at the 2015 New York International Wine Competition. 

Related articles

The Queen of Cava: Anna de Codorníu, Sparkling Wine from Spain

Sipping Pretty: Torresella Prosecco

Prosecco with Panache: Carpenè Malvolti 1868 Extra Dry Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG

Craggy Range Pinot Noir: A Singular Sip from New Zealand

Craggy Range chief winemaker Matt Stafford says "Pinot Noir is hard to tame." Their wonderful wines prove that this labor of love is worth the effort.

Exuberant and easy-going Sauvignon Blanc may have been New Zealand's calling card to wine drinkers around the world, but don't ignore their superb Pinot Noir - it may be the country's biggest surprise of all. I've enjoyed a few Pinot Noirs from New Zealand this year and the name Craggy Range kept popping up in conversations as one that I must try. Well, I finally had the chance to give Craggy Range a swirl with their chief winemaker Matt Stafford. Quite appropriately, lunch with Matt was hosted at The Musket Room - a Michelin starred restaurant in New York City that has been wowing critics and diners with culinary creations inspired by the spirit of New Zealand. Not a bad way to spend a steamy summer day in Manhattan! 



Founded in 1997, Craggy Range is a relatively young winery but they have made quite an impression in New Zealand in beyond. A partnership between international businessman extraordinaire Terry Peabody and family, and Master of Wine Steve Smith (the only specialist viticulturist in the world to hold this prestigious title), Craggy Range was founded at the not-so-subtle suggestion of Terry's wife Mary and daughter Mary-Jeanne that a winery would fulfill their wish to have an enduring family legacy. Craggy Range exclusively crafts single-vineyard, terroir-driven wines and their consistent 90+ scores, vintage after vintage, have played a major role in bolstering New Zealand's winemaking reputation. Craggy Range was honored by Wine Enthusiast magazine as the 2014 New World Winery of the Year. The Peabody family legacy is off to an auspicious start.  

Pinot Noir has its roots in Burgundy and while it may be easy to drink, growing it is a different story. Known as the heartbreak grape, famously fickle Pinot Noir is prone to mutation and extremely sensitive to temperature. Like a fairy-tale princess, everything has to be just right for Pinot Noir to thrive. But winemakers keep risking heartbreak because Pinot Noir has a poetic ability to express terroir. I definitely noticed some Burgundian finesse in Craggy Range's Pinot Noir but these wines are absolutely New Zealand and showcase the uniqueness of Craggy Range's vineyards.

Te Muna Road Vineyard

Our guided tasting with Matt focused on Pinot Noir from Craggy Range's Te Muna Road vineyard in the cool-climate region of Martinborough at the southeastern tip of the North Island. Craggy Range also produces wine at their Gimblett Gravels vineyard in Hawke's Bay. Te Muna means "The Secret" in Maori and this name has special resonance for the founding family of the vineyard - "under the first vine of block one inside the gate of this beautiful young Martinborough vineyard, (established in 1999) Aunt Sally, an elderly and wise Maori woman buried a piece of the Peabody’s family silver as a good luck omen." Aunt Sally is clearly the vineyard whisperer because Terry Peabody says that "it is still the strongest vine in the vineyard."


image courtesy of Craggy Road

2013 was described as a very good growing season at Craggy Range's Martinborough vineyard and this is apparent in the glass - Te Muna Road Vineyard Pinot Noir 2013 ($44.99) had an elegant earthiness that I absolutely adored. Flavors of tart cherry, hibiscus, rose petals, and rich earth are balanced by soft tannins. Subtle but sublime, this is a smart wine without pretension.


The Musket Room's dish of Berkshire pork with kale, clementine, and cauliflower paired beautifully with Craggy Range Pinot Noir.


image courtesy of Craggy Range

Meaning love or affection in Maori, wines bearing the Aroha label are lovingly crafted from two unique parcels of Pinot Noir from Te Muna Road, including the legendary Abel clone which can be traced back to one of Burgundy's finest vineyards. If you love Pinot Noir from Burgundy, you'll detect a certain Burgundian regalness and complexity in the Aroha wines. Aroha 2012 ($104.99) is a splurge but your taste buds will thank you - it envelops your palate in flavors of dark cherry with a touch of luscious plum that are balanced by a thread of dried herbs and subtle spices. Impeccably structured but lithe and graceful, Aroha is delightful now and will age beautifully. Pair with duck, lamb, pork, and game.



In addition to Pinot Noir, Craggy Range produces many other stellar varietals; including Sauvingon Blanc, Syrah, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Riesling. If you're planning a trip to New Zealand, visitors are welcome for tours and tastings at their Giant's Winery in Hawke's Bay. The complex and vineyard is also home to their award-winning Terrôir Restaurant and luxurious accommodations are available in Vineyard Cottages and The Lodge. Sounds like the perfect wine adventure - grab a bottle of Craggy Range and start planning your wine holiday! 

Sophisticated Sip: Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage Rosé Champagne 2008

I don't think it's my imagination - my friends are being a little bit nicer to me since I surprised them with this spectacular bottle of Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage Rosé Champagne 2008 ($69.99). What a beautiful wine - a week has passed and I'm still thinking about it! Delicate but substantial, precise but graceful; this sparkling rosé is the embodiment of balance. A gorgeous shade of vivid pink, this blend of Pinot Noir (46% - of which 20% is red wine), Chardonnay (32%), and Meunier (22%) elegantly expresses Chief Winemaker Benoit Gouez’s personal interpretation of this vintage year.



Every Grand Vintage is unique and the 2008 Grand Vintage Rosé marks Moët & Chandon's 41st vintage rosé release since the introduction of this wine in 1920. Aged for seven years, this extra-brut champagne displays incredible maturity while maintaining freshness and vibrancy. For anyone who thinks that rosé is not serious, one sip of this bubbly will silence them. Luscious and juicy flavors of strawberry, raspberry, blood orange, and blackcurrants are balanced by subtle hints of herbs, crisp lip-smacking minerality, and a touch of warm brioche. An incredibly versatile wine, you can pair this beauty with a wide variety of the summer season's best foods; including crab, lobster, fried clams, and ceviche! And the combination of champagne and pommes frites (french fries) can't be beat. If you're looking for a wine to toast the beauty of the season, do it in grand style with Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage Rosé Champagne 2008. Cheers!

An Italian Holiday in Your Glass: Celebrate Summer with Barone Fini Pinot Grigio and Merlot

Giovanni Bonmartini-Fini travels the globe sharing his passion for his family's wines.
image courtesy of Melinda McCoy

Wine is a delicious gateway to learning more about a culture and I recently received a refreshing lesson about the Italian holiday of Ferragosto courtesy of Barone Fini wines. Celebrated annually throughout Italy on August 15th, Ferragosto has its roots in the church but it is a time for all Italians to gather together for food, fun, fireworks, and wine! Giovanni Bonmartini-Fini, president of Barone Fini, may love Ferragosto even more than most Italians because it is also his birthday - Tanti Auguri, Giovanni!

The roots of Barone Fini can be traced back to the 1497 when two noble Venetian families, Bonmartini and Fini, joined together in marriage and began producing wine. Giovanni represents the 15th generation of his family to carry on this tradition and it isn't hard to be swept away by his passion for producing wine that honors his heritage but also appeals to consumers in Italy and beyond. Barone Fini focuses exclusively on two varieties - Pinot Grigio and Merlot. Sourced from old vines, the wines are produced in an ultra-modern winery located atop the ruins of an ancient Roman winery. Giovanni is committed to not over-manipulating wines and believes that "in winemaking, when too many things are added, things can go wrong" and "letting nature do what it does best" is the most authentic approach.

Yes, Pinot Grigio is everywhere but quality Pinot Grigio can be elusive. So many winemakers have taken advantage of Pinot Grigio's blockbuster popularity and flooded the market with insipid and bland wines with no flavor. I'm happy to report that Barone Fini is not guilty of insulting the consumer - give Barone Fini a swirl if you want a reminder of what Pinot Grigio actually tastes like.


Barone Fini Valdadige Pinot Grigio 2015 DOC (around $12) is a crisp and clean white wine that expresses the mountainous terroir of Trentino in northern Italy. This pretty Pinot Grigio has lovely lemony flavors that are balanced by hints of melon, minerality, and vibrant acidity. A great apéritif on a hot day, this wine also pairs nicely with salad, fresh seafood, and poultry. Perfect for al fresco dining!



Giovanni says that "you are tasting the mountains" when you drink Barone Fini Pinot Grigio Alto Adige 2015 DOC (around $20). Produced from grapes sourced from small mountain-top plots, this limited production wine takes Pinot Grigio to the next level. Round and supple, this wine has defined but graceful fruit and floral flavors that are balanced by crisp minerality and a lingering finish. A lovely match with grilled fish, pasta with cream sauce, and herb roasted chicken.



White wine and rosé may rule the summer, but juicy lighter-bodied red wines can also refresh your palate on a hot day. Barone Fini Merlot Trentino 2014 DOC (around $10) is smooth with soft tannins, lively acidity, and mouthwatering flavors of ripe cherries, plums, violets, and blackberries. Unoaked, this is a nimble and unpretentious expression of Merlot.


I Trulli's Spigola Nera (local black bass with sauteed summer vegetables) pairs beautifully with Barone Fini wines.

If you're in New York City and want to experience a taste of Ferragosto and Barone Fini wines, on August 15th I Trulli Enoteca e Ristorante will offer a special four-course Ferragosto menu for $58 and glasses of Barone Fini will be offered for $10 each.100% of the proceeds from each glass of Barone Fini will be donated to the Food Bank for New York City. What a delicious way to wine & dine and do some good in the world. Buon Ferragosto!

Related articles

Sipping Italy: La Scolca Gavi - A Wonderful White Wine for Summer

A Fresh Sip of Chile: Gran Reserva Riverbank Series Wines from Concha y Toro

"I like on the table, when we're speaking, the light of a bottle of intelligent wine." - Pablo Neruda

From the brilliant poetry of Pablo Neruda to images of its stunning landscape and coastline, the South American nation of Chile has long intrigued me. As an adult, I can now add Chilean wines to my list of pleasures and Concha y Toro is a producer that always impresses me with their diverse selection of well-crafted wines. Their Gran Reserva Serie Riberas (Riverbank Series) is a family of single-vineyard wines in which the grapes are grown in close proximity to one of Chile's major rivers. This closeness to the river imbues the grapes with tremendous freshness and minerality. Serie Riberas showcases several varietals and I suggest getting started with the Sauvignon Blanc and Carmenere.


Ucúquer Vineyard near the bank of the Rapel River

Gran Reserva Serie Riberas Sauvignon Blanc 2015 ($17) is produced from grapes grown at the Ucúquer Vineyard near the bank of the Rapel River in the Colchaqua Valley. This vibrant wine has juicy flavors of citrus, green apple, and lime that are elegantly balanced by perky acidity and crisp minerality. Pretty with plenty of finesse, this sip is a perfect match with ceviche, fish, oysters, and shrimp.


Gran Reserva Serie Riberas Carmenere 2014 ($17)
Carmenere may have its roots in Bordeaux but this robust red grape really earned its stellar reputation in Chile. I loved the richness and grace of Gran Reserva's blend of 90% Carmenere and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. Juicy flavors of plum, violets, blueberries, and chocolate are balanced by an appealing earthiness and touch of spice. Lively acidity and soft tannins keep this wine alive on your palate, like a tender kiss. Pair with sharp cheeses, roasted & grilled meats, and the poetry of Neruda. Cheers!

Shaking Things Up with Edinburgh Gin

David Wilkinson - Head Distiller for Edinburgh Gin

Ever since a bad experience with some dodgy gin in my college years; I've approached this spirit with tremendous caution. But the charm and expertise of David Wilkinson, head distiller for Edinburgh Gin, persuaded me to give gin another chance.



David was recently spreading the gin gospel across the United States on an educational tasting tour sponsored by Frederick Wildman & Sons Importers. I caught up with the tour on the Williamsburg, Brooklyn stop at Belle Shoals. The lone media attendee, I was surrounded by a rapt group of NYC area bartenders who are big fans of Edinburgh Gin and came to learn more about this premium & small-batch spirit. Without a doubt, I was in the right place to overcome my gin phobia.

Not a bad day - yours truly with gin distiller extraordinaire David Wilkinson and Tim Master (Director of Specialty Spirits at Frederick Wildman & Sons)

At its essence, gin is produced when a neutral spirit is infused with flavors via distillation. Juniper berry is the essential botanical component that gives gin its unique flavor, but David taught me that other key botanicals include coriander, angelica root, licorice root, and orris root. But the really exciting thing is that gin can be distilled with almost any botanical. Edinburgh's various gins include quintessentially Scottish botanicals such as heather and milk thistle and unexpected flavors such as Szechuan pepper. Really, the possibilities are limitless and a maestro like David has the expertise to balance the flavors. Whether you're a gin novice or an aficionado, Edinburgh Gin is an elegant and delicious addition to your spirits library.


The classic Edinburgh Gin ($35) is a great introduction to their style and a delicious example of what a premium gin should taste like. Distilled from the finest Scottish grain, this crisp & clean juniper forward gin is 43% ABV and includes a total of 13 botanicals; including citrus peel, coriander seed, pine heather, and milk thistle. Beautifully balanced, this smooth gin makes an excellent martini. Bottled in fine Italian glass, the art deco inspired bottle pays homage to the golden age of gin - the 1920's.

Courtesy of Edinburgh, I had my very first Negroni cocktail. It won't be my last!

Edinburgh Cannonball Navy Strength Gin ($45) takes it to the next level! This 57% ABV libation resurrects an old style of gin commissioned by the British Navy but with a unique twist - double strength juniper and Szechuan pepper give this gin a powerful but elegant kick. It makes a mighty fine Negroni (equal parts gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari, with an orange peel garnish).

If you're planning a trip to Scotland, Edinburgh Gin Distillery offer tours, tastings, and gin making classes. Cheers!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Summer of Riesling: As Sweet As You Want It To Be!

image courtesy of the German Wine Institute

School may be out for the summer but let's take a pop quiz! No need for test anxiety, pour yourself a glass of German Riesling and ponder the question below.

What is Riesling?
A.  a crisp and refreshing dry white wine
B. a kind of sweet white wine
C:  a very sweet & rich white wine
D. A really delicious and food-friendly white wine
E. all of the above

The correct answer is all of the above! The beauty of Riesling is its amazing ability to express itself in so many different styles. From super dry to decadently sweet, and everything in between, the versatility of Riesling is virtually unrivaled. Riesling also belongs to an elite club of white wines that have magnificent aging potential. Riesling is grown around the globe but Germany is the home of the world’s largest vineyard area devoted to Riesling. Without a doubt, Germany produces many of the finest Rieslings in the world.



Riesling is great year-round but it is an ideal summer sip! Wines of Germany is encouraging consumers to celebrate the Summer of Riesling with special promotions at wine shops and restaurants across the country. Peruse the list for participating businesses near you and to learn how you can win a $25 Wine.com gift card. And here are two wine recommendations to get you started on your Summer of Riesling adventure. Prost (cheers)!

DRY RIESLING: S.A. Prüm Luminance Riesling 2013 ($15)
Luminance is the perfect name for this lovely dry Riesling - it fills your glass with a golden shimmer. Named after the reflection of the sun onto the steep vineyards along the Mosel River, this crisp wine has subtle flavors of citrus, peach, and tropical flavors that are balanced by a lip-smacking minerality. Pair with sunny days, picnics, simple salads, spicy cuisine, and good company! 


OFF-DRY RIESLING: Müller-Catoir Mussbach Riesling Kabinett 2012 ($27)
Noticeably sweeter than a dry Riesling but not cloying, this off-dry beauty has luscious flavors of peach and citrus that are balanced by a lively acidity. The combination of acidity and fruitiness makes off-dry Riesling an outstanding match with rich and spicy foods. Pair with Asian cuisine, fatty fish, duck, barbecue, and friends with great taste!

Fabulous French Wines at a Great Price: E. Guigal Côtes du Rhône Red, White, and Rosé

All summer long I've been happily sipping evidence that delicious French wines don't have to cost a small fortune. In support of my argument, I present three wonderful and affordable wines produced by respected winemaker E.Guigal from the Rhône Valley in the south of France. Founded in 1946 by Etienne Guigal, today Etienne's grandson Philippe is the winemaker.


Guigal Côtes du Rhône Blanc 2014 ($15)
 Juicy, rich, and crisp; this white wine is an elegant thirst-quencher. A blend of Viognier (65%), Roussanne (15%), Marsanne (10%), Clairette (8%) and Bourboulenc (2%); this aromatic sip has lovely flavors of peach, honeysuckle, green apple, and citrus. Luscious and structured with a mineral core. A great match with seafood, shellfish, and poultry.


Guigal Côtes du Rhône Rosé 2015 ($15)
Expressive and dry, this medium-bodied rosé has layers of balanced flavor. Well-chilled but not ice cold is the best temperature to really taste its flavors of cherry, raspberry, strawberry, watermelon, orange peel, and a hint of white pepper and Provençal herbs on the finish. This blend of Grenache (60%), Cinsault (30%), and Syrah (10%) is absolutely delightful. Marcel Guigal, son of the founder and father of winemaker Philippe, has more than 50 vintages under his belt and calls the 2015 "the vintage of a lifetime." Suggested food pairings include ratatouille and quiche.


Guigal Côtes du Rhône Rouge ($15)
A gorgeous blend of Syrah (50%), Grenache (45%) and Mourvèdre (5%), this supple red wine has smooth tannins and rich flavors of dark berries, black cherries, violets, and a hint of spice. Pair this luscious beauty with steak, ribs, burgers, and charcuterie.

 

Related articles

Olivier Dauga Makes Wines as Vibrant as His Personality!

Winemaker Mathilde Chapoutier is Paving Her Own Way with Rosé