Wine With Wanda

Get Swept Away to Sardinia with the Wines of Sella & Mosca

  My very best daydreams often include a beautiful bottle of wine and balmy ocean breezes. Apparently, I've been dreaming of Sardinia. The second largest island in the Mediterranean, Sardinia has an ancient & rich wine culture and Sella & Mosca is the island's foremost producer.


Giovanni Pinna, Chief Winemaker, Sella & Mosca

Founded in 1899, Sella & Mosca's I Piani estate is the second largest contiguous vineyard in Italy and one of the largest wineries in Europe - it is a 1,600-acre property with more than 1,200 acres of vines. From vibrant whites to nuanced reds, Sella & Mosca has a wine for every mood and meal. Sella & Mosca is a must-sip in an exploration of Sardinian wines - their portfolio includes indigenous varietals like Torbato and international favorites like Cabernet Sauvignon.

Sella & Mosca La Cala Vermentino di Sardegna DOC 2015 ($13.99)
Sardinian sunshine in a glass, La Cala is an energetic and elegant expression of Vermentino. Crisp, fresh, and dry; its citrus and peach flavors are balanced by a hint of salinity that reflect the vineyard's proximity to the sea. An absolutely perfect match with seafood, this refreshing white wine is a delightful detour from ubiquitous Pinot Grigio. 


Sella & Mosca Terre Bianche Torbato di Alghero DOC 2014 ($20.99)
Want to sip something new? Give Torbato a swirl. Indigenous to Sardinia, this flavorful grape produces a white wine with plenty of personality. A difficult grape to grow, Torbato is delightfully easy to drink. Zippy acidity and flavors of citrus with a hint of honey and a touch of vanilla (from a few months in oak) make this wine come alive with texture and flavor. Another great match with seafood - especially crudo and ceviche. 


Sella & Mosca Cannonau di Sardegna Riserva DOC 2012 ($16.99)
An approachable red wine that packs plenty of flavor, this Cannonau lures you in with sultry aromas of wild berries and a touch of spice. Flavors of plummy fruit, earth, herbs, and spice are beautifully balanced. Pair with pasta & meat sauce or mushroom based dishes. 


Sella & Mosca Tanca Farrá Alghero DOC 2011($26.99)
Tanca Farrá displays the allure that results from combining the familiar (Cabernet Sauvignon) with the exotic (Cannonau). Tanca Farrá means "Iron Earth" in the Sardinian dialect and refers to the high iron content of the soil in this portion of the estate. That steely minerality imparts the wine with structure and complexity. Full-bodied with layers of dark fruit, graphite, and herbs; pair this beauty with hearty meats and aged cheeses. 


Sella & Mosca Marchese di Villamarina Alghero DOC 2010 ($64.99)
An elegant reminder of Cabernet Sauvignon's ability to reflect the unique qualities of the terroir where it is grown, Marchese di Villamarina displays the varietal's classic flavors along with some Sardinian finesse. Intense but not overwhelming, it balances rich flavors of blackcurrant, black cherry, with touches of vanilla and earth. A great match with steak and game. 

If you're planning a trip to Sardinia, contact Sella & Mosca to request a visit.  

 

 

 

The Elegantly Unpredictable Wines of Sartori di Verona

"There is little demand for good quality wines. Today they have to be very good indeed."
Andrea Sartori, President, Sartori di Verona

When your great-grandfather was the founder of one of Italy's most respected wineries, the pressure to sustain the family legacy can be overwhelming but Andrea Sartori approaches his destiny with admirable grace and aplomb. Founded in 1898 by Pietro Sartori, Sartori di Verona is one of the Veneto's "Big Five" wine producers and has grown tremendously under Andrea's leadership. His success has not gone unnoticed by his peers and Andrea served an unprecedented two terms as president of the Unione Italiana Vini -- Italy's principal wine producers' trade group.


After meeting with Andrea, I am convinced that his success as a wine producer is not only attributed to his business savvy and enological expertise, but also his insatiable curiosity for the world around him. A talented photographer and avid world traveler, Andrea displays a genuine reverence for tradition AND enthusiasm for innovation. Two of my favorite wines in the Sartori di Verona portfolio are modern expressions of Andrea's heartfelt connection to his elders: Ferdi and Regolo were named after his grandmother and grandfather.

Sartori di Verona Ferdi Bianco Veronese IGT ($17) 
Lovingly named after his grandmother, Andrea daringly describes Ferdi as a "white Amarone." Whoa, white Amarone? If you're a fan of regal & rich red Amarone, you know that's pretty revolutionary! Made from 100% Garganega grapes, Ferdi utilizes the Amarone technique of drying the grapes before pressing (appassimento) to reduce water content and increase the sugar and color. What surprised me most about Ferdi is that although it displayed tremendous depth and complexity, it maintained freshness and vibrancy. Dry with lively acidity that keeps it from being cloying, Ferdi's tapestry of flavors include apricot, pear, and hazelnut. Ferdi is a pretty, but far from boring white wine with enough structure to pair with grilled seafood, aged cheeses, and pasta. 



Sartori di Verona Regolo Rosso Veronese IGT ($23)
Named after Andrea's grandfather, Regolo is a friendly and flavorful wine produced from 100% Corvina - one of the key grapes in the Amarone blend. In fact, Regolo gets a complexity boost from time spent resting on Amarone pomace, which increases its aromatics and aging potential. Supple and velvety, Regolo is full-bodied but graceful with appealing cherry and red berry flavors. Pair this delightful dry wine with steak, lamb, and aged cheeses. 


Sartori di Verona Corte Brá Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOC ($58)
Ferdi and Regolo beautifully showcase how Amarone inspires Sartori di Varona, so it isn't a surprise that they produce a mighty fine Amarone. The grapes for this impressive vino are sourced from their Corte Brá vineyard in the northern hills of Verona. The grapes (Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella, and Oseleta) are air-dried for 3 to 4 months and only the best are selected for fermentation. The wine is aged in oak casks for about 4 years, followed by at least 6 months of bottle aging. The end result is a rich and voluptuous wine with robust flavors of dried fruits, plum, figs, and ripe berries with a touch of herbs and balsamic. Power and grace co-exist beautifully in this bottle. Pair with roasts, steaks, chops, and aged cheeses. 

Ready to take your palate on a sophisticated and exciting journey to Verona? Visit the Sartori di Verona website to browse their diverse & impressive portfolio of wines. 

 

Fromage in the City: Cheese Week in New York

Cheese & wine have always been the hottest couple in the culinary world and no one has mastered the art of pairing fromage and vin like the French. The creators of Cheese Day Paris will make the Big Apple cheesy in the very best way during Cheese Week in New York (February 21-26, 2017). During Cheese Week, the Maîtres Cuisiniers de France and other chefs in New York, Philadelphia and California will spotlight cheeses from France and around the world. Participating chefs in New York include Daniel Boulud (Bar Boulud), Claude Godard (Madison Bistro), and Bernard Liberatore (Core Club). Their menus will feature dishes that creatively incorporate cheese. 


During Cheese Week, Bar Boulud's menu will feature Braised Pork Shank with Pommes Aligot, Broccoli Rabe, and Garlic Jus. The Pommes Aligot (potato purée with cheese) features Comté Juraflore Fort des Rousses cheese from Fromagerie Arnaud.

" I am honored to be a part of this well known event. I have a very special place for cheese in my heart and as a matter of fact, have conducted many pairings with cheesemonger Xavier, a long time friend of my family." -- Stephane Kandler, owner of Château Tourril 

Of course, wine will be an important part of the Cheese Week festivities. For example, Madison Bistro will be hosting a four-course winemaker dinner on February 27th with Stephane Kandler of Château Tourril in the Minervois appellation in the Languedoc region, in the south of France. Other wines featured during Cheese Week include Légende, Domaines Barons de Rothschild and Château de La Dauphine Cuvée Delphis. 

The French Cheese Board will also organize cheese, wine, and spirit tastings at their space in Soho. Other popular NYC locations participating in Cheese Week include Maison Kayser and Murray's Cheese.
 

Visit the Cheese Week website for the complete schedule of chic & cheesy activities.

Woo Them with Wine: Five Flirty Sips for Valentine's Day

Love it or hate it, ignoring Valentine's Day is almost impossible -- that darn Cupid is everywhere! Romance and wine are a perfect match but even if you don't have a sweetie, go ahead and treat yourself to a fantastic bottle!   

Ronco Calino Franciacorta Brut NV ($30)
Lombardy, Italy
Celebrate amore Italian style with this elegant bottle of Franciacorta. A Champagne-inspired sparkling blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, refreshing flavors of pear, apple, and citrus are balanced by crisp minerality and hints of brioche. And who can resist those tiny bubbles elegantly dancing in the glass? 

Bonterra Organic Vineyards Rosé 2016 ($15)
Mendocino County, California
There's something so flirty about a glass of rosé - the color catches your eye and lures you in for a sip. This California beauty is inspired by the pale and dry rosés of Provence but it definitely has West Coast vivaciousness. Mostly Grenache with a bit of Sangiovese and Nebbiolo, it is dry yet juicy with vibrant flavors of strawberry, watermelon, and a touch of peach. 

Medici Ermete Concerto Reggiano Lambrusco DOC 2015 ($22.99)
Emilia-Romagna, Italy
Who says you have to choose between sparkling and red - with Lambrusco you get both. The world's first single vineyard vintage Lambrusco, Concerto is a beautiful expression of the varietal. Dry with lively bubbles, this fizzy vino has fresh and juicy red berry flavors with a subtle hint of savory balsamic on the finish. 

 Loveblock Pinot Noir 2013 ($37)
Central Otago, New Zealand
Love is in the DNA of Loveblock Winery. Founded by the husband and wife team of Erica & Kim Crawford, the grapes for this elegant Pinot Noir are grown in a vineyard with the charming name of "Someone's Darling." This superb sip is juicy with vibrant acidity, earthiness, and beautiful flavors of blueberry, strawberry, hibiscus, blackberry, and a kiss of spice on the finish. Love may or may not be in the air but with Loveblock it is certainly in your wineglass! 


Trivento Amado Sur Malbec 2014 ($15)
Mendoza, Argentina
If the object of your affection is clueless about your feelings, this sexy South American vino will help to make things clear! The name Amado Sur means "Southern Love" in Spanish and this rich and velvety blend of mostly Malbec with hints of Bonarda, and Syrah is easy to fall for. Flavors of red berries and black cherries with a hint of black plum and a touch of spice set the mood for a romantic evening. 

A Malbec of Distinction: Get Swept Away by Trivento Eolo

"I work with a quiet passion. Winemaking is an art not limited by gender or age."
--Victoria Prandina

Winemaker Victoria "Vico" Prandina has a serene presence that sparks to life when she speaks of her wines. Truly born to spend her life among vines and cellars, Victoria said, "So much of my childhood was spent helping out in my great-grandfather’s vineyard, which my father now oversees. For as long as I can remember, there was no doubt in my mind that my future lay in winemaking.” Victoria has advanced degrees in winemaking and her passion and knowledge are abundantly clear in the superb Eolo Malbec that she produces for Trivento.  


Trivento's portfolio of wines from Mendoza is popular with fans of Argentine wines but their high-end Eolo is something quite special. A super-premium, reserve, old-vines Malbec; Eolo ($79) is not your ubiquitous tasty but not particularly memorable Malbec, but an impressive reminder that the varietal can display tremendous elegance, finesse, and complexity. Eolo was named after the Greek god of the winds (Aeolus), and the name Trivento is also a tribute to the three influential winds that sweep through Mendoza. 

The story of Eolo begins in the Luján de Cuyo zone of Mendoza with Malbec grapes from a 10-acre parcel of vines in a vineyard that was planted in 1912. This small section of vines lies on the north bank of the Mendoza River and the proximity of the river acts as a natural thermostat. Snow run-off water from the Andes Mountains is used to irrigate the Eolo vineyard via a traditional Mendocino method of surface furrows. These ancient vines have naturally low yields and the terroir also contributes to the concentrated flavor, excellent tannins, vibrant acidity, and intense color of the grapes. Put grapes of this caliber in the hands of a talented winemaker like Victoria, and you have the essence of what it takes to make a world-class Malbec like Eolo. 

I had the pleasure of tasting the 2011, 2012, and 2013 vintages of Eolo with Victoria. She describes Eolo as a "wine of precision" and it displays a quiet power and complexity that develops beautifully in the glass. Sweet tannins, energetic acidity, and a touch of spice & minerality give impressive structure to Eolo's layers of intense but supple & juicy fruit flavors: blackberry, cherry, plum, and black fig. These wines age beautifully but don't be afraid to drink the younger vintages now. Pair Eolo with a medium-rare steak or lamb chops for a fantastic match. Hearty mushroom dishes and sharp cheeses would also be a tasty pairing. Cheers! 

Count on Excellence with Erasmo Organic Wines from Chile

"Recognized for its micro climate since pre Colombian times and then colonized by the Conquistadores, the Erasmo estate is now bringing to the world award winning wines that show all the potential of the oldest, most traditional wine region of Chile."
-Count Francesco Marone Cinzano 

Renowned for crafting exquisite Brunello di Montalcino at his Col d'Orcia estate in Tuscany, Count Francesco Marone Cinzano crossed an ocean and a continent to embark on an innovative winemaking adventure in Chile. Founded in 1995, the Count's Erasmo is an organic winery and vineyard in Reserva de Caliboro, which is located in Chile's Maule Valley, about 155 miles south of Santiago in the Central Valley region. Named in tribute to a local farmer that helped Cinzano plant the vineyard and understand the uniqueness of the land, Erasmo also means pleasant in ancient Greek. 

“Erasmo unites the finest Andean mother earth with the centuries-old winemaking heritage of my Italian forebears.”
Count Francesco Marone Cinzano

Maule Valley is Chile's oldest and most traditional winemaking region and a good half of the country's wines include its grapes. Erasmo's vineyards are planted in the area of Reserva de Caliboro, a pre-Columbian human settlement that has been inhabited by Andean civilizations since ancient times. No irrigation is allowed in Caliboro and all vineyards are dry-farmed. Erasmo balances Cinzano's love of both tradition and state-of-the-art winemaking techniques. He planted Erasmo's vineyards with the highest quality French grape clones with the intent of showing that traditional Bordeaux varieties would thrive in this ancient yet New World terroir. 


I had the pleasure of sipping a few Erasmo wines over a lovely lunch with Cinzano at Ai Fiori in New York City. I firmly believe that a wine often reflects the personality of the producer, and Cinzano and his Erasmo are clearly kindred spirits: elegant, daring, vivacious, and bold. I suspect that consulting enologist Maurizio Castelli may possess similar traits. 

Erasmo Barbera Garnacha 2014 ($16.99)
(32% Barbera, 48% Garnacha, 12% Carignan, 8% Alicante)

With a twinkle in his eye, Cinzano proclaimed that "not even an Australian producer has gone so wild as to blend Garnacha and Barbera!" His wild idea has paid off beautifully - this sui generis blend is fresh and fruity with juicy flavors of cherry, blackberry, and cranberry with a subtle sweetness and herbaceous hint on the finish. Made in the old way with natural yeasts and by fermenting the grapes together ("promiscuous fermentation" is how the Count cleverly describes it), the blend is a tasty hybrid of tradition and modernity. An approachable wine but very far from ordinary, it is versatile enough to serve as an apéritif or with roast chicken or fish. It is suggested that you serve this wine slightly chilled. Erasmo is the only producer of Barbera grapes in Chile.  


Erasmo Reserva de Caliboro 2010 & 2009 ($29.99 each)
(60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, 25% Merlot, 5% Syrah)

In 2010, a violent earthquake hit the central coast of Chile which delayed the harvest at Erasmo and resulted in riper grapes. This ripeness can be detected in the 2010 and the wine is quite juicy and round with rich tannins and a hint of minerality on the finish. The 2010 is also a real testament of triumph in trying times: the Erasmo team had to work in isolated and complicated conditions after the earthquake to produce this vintage.  
I found the 2009 vintage of Erasmo Reserva de Caliboro quite exceptional, with darker and rounder berry flavors and harmoniously integrated hints of spice and velvety tannins. Both vintages pair well with beef, lamb, and wild boar. 
 

Erasmo Late Harvest Torontel 2010 ($43.99)
I often prefer to end a meal with a glass of sweet wine instead of a sugary dessert. The best sweet wines balance sugar with savory flavors and acidity. Erasmo Late Harvest Torontel is produced from a 60-year-old-vineyard and has lovely flavors of apricot, golden raisins, and hazelnuts. It also has a lively acidity that prevents it from being cloying. Cinzano describes this elegant wine as "nectar of the gods." Pair with a sharp aged cheese for a match made in heaven. 

Behind the Brunello Bottle with Il Poggione Winemaker Alessandro Bindocci

"Wine is science but also beauty and memories." - Alessandro Bindocci

Winemaker Alessandro Bindocci exudes the endearing confidence of a man following his passion and destiny. The son of celebrated winemaker Fabrizio Bindocci, Alessandro has known since the tender age of 6 that wine would be at the center of his life. Today, Alessandro works side-by-side with his father at Il Poggione in Montalcino to produce acclaimed Brunello di Montalcino - one of Italy's most impressive and elegant wines.


 Fabrizio and Alessandro Bindocci

Fabrizio Bindocci began working at Il Poggione in 1976 and Alessandro joined the winery in 2005 after completing his advanced degree in enology at the University of Pisa. Purchased by the Franceschi family in 1890, today Il Poggione is in the hands of the fifth generation. More than a winery, Il Poggione is a working farm with livestock, produce, and olive trees (you can also purchase their olive oil).


Over a lively lunch at Morandi restaurant in New York City, Alessandro shared Il Poggione wines and plenty of wisdom and humor. From vibrant rosé to sophisticated Brunello di Montalcino, the personality of Il Poggione wines shines through - just like the winemaker. 

Il Poggione Brancato Rosato 2015 ($18.99)

Alessandro charmingly describes rosé as "fruit juice for grown ups!" Refreshing and vivacious, this eye-catching coppery-salmon hued wine is made from 100% Sangiovese. Its round and luscious texture and flavors of orange zest, ginger, and cherry give this vino approachable complexity. Delicious enough to sip by itself but substantial enough to pair with Prosciutto and fried calamari. 



Il Poggione Rosso di Montalcino 2014 ($29.99)

I like to think of Rosso di Montalcino as Brunello's flirty younger sibling. Like Brunello, Rosso is produced from 100% Sangiovese but it is aged for a much shorter period of time. Juicy and fruit-forward, Il Poggione's Rosso has mouth-watering cherry and wild red berry flavors, velvety tannins, and a lovely lingering finish. This vino has personality for days and gives a satisfying tease of the taste of Brunello: some even call it a "Baby Brunello." Pair with pizza, pasta, barbecue, or a burger.  

 Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino 2011($84.99) 
Although it was aged for three years in large French oak barrels, this Brunello is not overwhelmed by woody characteristics. As Alessandro said, "you should taste the wine, not the oak. Sangiovese is a beautiful grape but it is delicate and can be overpowered by oak." This stellar vino is full and well-balanced with complex flavors of cherry, leather, spices, and earth. A perfect match with a juicy steak and hearty mushroom dishes. 



Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Vigna Paganelli 2010 ($125)
Produced only in the best years and in limited quantities, this beautiful Brunello comes from the oldest vineyard on the Il Poggione estate - I Paganelli. This vino displays a beautiful integration of fruit, wood, and time. Concentrated yet graceful, this sophisticated sip displays impressive energy and freshness along with hints of spice and leather. Pair with a candlelight dinner of Bistecca Fiorentina (Tuscan style Porterhouse steak). 



If you are planning a trip to Montalcino, Il Poggione welcomes visitors for tours and tastings by appointment. Accommodations are also available at a completely restored estate farmhouse. Sounds like a perfect Tuscan getaway! 

Beauty You Can Drink: Brunello di Montalcino

 
In an increasingly complicated and crazy world, a bottle of Brunello di Montalcino is a reminder that beauty exists. One of Italy's most celebrated wines, Brunello di Montalcino is produced in the relatively tiny Tuscan territory of Montalcino from the Sangiovese grape (named "Brunello" in Montalcino.) Only 15% of Montalcino's 24,000 hectares consist of vineyards but the exceptional wines they produce are coveted around the world. Elegant and expressive with impressive aging potential, Brunello di Montalcino pairs beautifully with food and elevates every meal and occasion. Brunello di Montalcino carries the DOCG classification which indicates the highest level of quality for Italian wine. After aging in oak casks (for at least 2 years) and in the bottle (at least 4 months, 6 for the Riserva), Brunello is available for sale on the 1st of January of the 5th year following harvest (6th year for the Riserva). 

Giacomo Pondini, Managing Director of Consorzio Vino Brunello Montalcino, is a charming ambassador for this exceptional wine. 

The annual Benvenuto Brunello tasting is one of the most exciting events on the wine trade calendar. Organized by the Consortium of the Brunello of Montalcino Wine, the event recently traveled to New York and Houston. Around fifty Brunello producers shared the newly released 2012 vintage which is being praised as a 5-Star Vintage for its unabashed prettiness, balance, and purity of fruit. Many producers also shared their Rosso di Montalcino which is also produced from Sangiovese but is available for sale on September 1 of the year following the vintage. Rosso di Montalcino is a delicious and more affordable way to experience a hint of Brunello. Expect to pay at least $50 for a bottle of Brunello and around $25-$30 for Rosso. 

Benvenuto Brunello certainly reminded me of why I love this wine so much. Brunello di Montalcino displays beautiful fruit, floral, and earthy flavors and each producer's wine expresses these characteristics in unique ways. Here are a few highlights from the day and some recommended wines. Cheers!  

Count Francesco Marone Cinzano of Col d'Orcia has me very tempted to write a novel that includes a dapper, distinguished, and down-to-earth producer of Brunello di Montalcino. With his dynamic personality and outstanding wines, the Count embodies the passion and sophistication of the area's winemakers. Col d'Orcia produces elegant and expressive organic wines at their vineyard whose name translates to "hill overlooking the Orcia River." Brunello di Montalcino is known to age beautifully and a sip of Col d'Orcia 1987 showcased how gracefully a well-crafted Brunello evolves.
Recommended Wines: Col d'Orcia Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2012 and Col d' Orcia Rosso di Montalcino DOC 2014

On my last trip to Tuscany, I could see the majestic Castello Banfi beckoning in the distance. Alas, my itinerary did not permit me to visit but I assure you that I will never let that opportunity pass me by again. A family-owned vineyard estate and winery, Castello Banfi was founded on the philosophy of blending tradition with innovation. The precision and expressiveness of their Brunello di Montalcino is a stellar representation of the varietal.
Recommended Wines: Castello Banfi Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2012 and Castello Banfi Rosso di Montalcino DOC 2012

The Brunello di Montalcino produced by Giovanna Neri at her Col di Lamo winery captures her personality: modern, sophisticated, and vibrant. Trained as a lawyer, Giovanna inherited her passion for wine from her father. Giovanna aims to showcase the feminine side of Brunello and her label even depicts a graceful female profile. 
Recommended Wines: Col di Lamo Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2012 and Col di Lamo Rosso di Montalcino DOC 2014 

Lorenzo Magnelli, chief winemaker at Le Chiuse is truly a son of Montalcino - he is the great-great grandson of Ferruccio Biondi-Santi who is credited with creating Brunello di Montalcino in 1888. Lorenzo's award-winning wines beautifully honor his family's legacy and he gracefully balances tradition with innovations such as state-of the-art wine cellars. 
Recommended Wines: Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2012 and Rosso di Montalcino DOC 2014

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