Wine With Wanda

Make Montefalco Your Next Wine Adventure

Devis Romanelli's family has been making wine in the hills of Montefalco for three generations. Like many Montefalco wine estates, Romanelli also produces olive oil. 

Now is the perfect time to start planning your wine-centric adventures for 2023. If you’re looking for authentic wines, warm people, and a stunning natural landscape, Montefalco delivers all that and more. Montefalco is in Umbria, known as the “Green Heart of Italy” because of its verdant green landscape. And the tiny hilltop town of Montefalco, with a population of around 6,000 people, could very well be considered the wine heart of Umbria: It’s a small town that has significantly impacted the Italian wine scene.

The view from Tabarrini Winery. 

I’ve traveled to Italy countless times, yet Umbria had always evaded me until I visited Montefalco in the Spring of 2022 to attend a preview of the region’s wines hosted by the Montefalco Wine Consortium. Montefalco has a rich winemaking history that spans centuries, but it’s only in recent decades that the area started garnering serious attention and acclaim for its red wine, Sagrantino. Indigenous to Montefalco, the grape reaches its highest expression in its hills and calcareous clay soils. Montefalco Sagrantino was granted DOCG status in 1992.

Sagrantino is a powerful, tannic, and complex grape, and regulations require that Montefalco Sagrantino DOCG contain 100% of the grape. During my visit to Montefalco, many producers expressed their desire to create red wines that are more approachable but still authentic. 


The Montefalco Sagrantino DOCG wines I enjoyed most still displayed power but weren’t clunky, aggressive, or too oaky. The essence of the grape came through in the glass -- flavors of black plum, black cherry, licorice, earth, and black pepper. By nature, the Sagrantino grape is extremely tannic; but Montefalco’s producers have found ways to manage the tannins. For example, picking riper grapes and aging the wines in used oak can mitigate tannins. But because of its impressive structure, Montefalco Sagrantino DOCG is a wine that ages like a dream. Even the more approachable expressions really start to sing in the glass 10, 15, and 20+ years later.

While waiting for your Montefalco Sagrantino to age, give Montefalco Rosso DOC a swirl. Mostly Sangiovese with 10-25% Sagrantino, the result is an approachable red wine with structure, freshness, and softer tannins.

Montefalco’s red wines are quite special, but the white wines, especially Trebbiano Spoletino, are also a revelation. This white grape is native to Umbria and produces wines with texture, finesse, and aging potential. And Montefalco Bianco DOC wines blend a minimum of 50% Trebbiano Spoletino with other white varieties. 

Fresh and bright Montefalco Grechetto DOC is a flirty and refreshing everyday sip.

Are you ready for an adventure in Montefalco? Even if your travels don’t take you to Umbria, I encourage you to try wines from the 12 producers listed below. Cheers!

Arnaldo Caprai

Ten years ago, I was invited to a tasting in NYC to celebrate Arnaldo Caprai being honored as European Winery of the Year by Wine Enthusiast. On that day, I met winemaker Marco Caprai and tasted Sagrantino for the first time. Arnaldo Caprai, Marco’s father, founded his eponymous winery in 1971 and Marco assumed leadership in 1988. Marco embarked on a mission to create Sagrantino wines of exceptional quality. To say Marco succeeded is an understatement; he is widely credited for proving to a global audience that Sagrantino from Montefalco deserved to be recognized as one of Italy’s top-tier wines. Marco’s success generated interest and acclaim for other winemakers in Montefalco. 

Tabarrini

Meet the vivacious and poetic innovator of Montefalco -- winemaker Giampaolo Tabarrini. During my recent visit to his beautiful winery, Giampaolo said I could select any bottle from the cellar to pair with our lunch. I chose a wine that I absolutely adore, Tabarrini “Adarmando” Trebbiano Spoletino. Giampaolo advised me to pick a vintage that reflected a special time in my life, so I picked 2010 -- the year I first started writing about wine.

Full of life and energy at 12-years-old, Adarmando 2010 showed no signs of slowing down; it was textured, generous, and multi-dimensional. Just like Giampaolo.

Scacciadiavoli

Founded in 1884, Scacciadiavoli is one of the oldest properties in Montefalco. It was a pleasure to tour the old, but very efficient cellars with fourth-generation vintner Liù Pambuffetti. The original cellars may not be shiny and new but they are full of soul. The name Scacciadiavoli means banish the devils and refers to an episode of exorcism in the 14th century when a young woman who was possessed by the devil was liberated by drinking some local red wine. In addition to the core wines of the region, Scacciadiavoli also produces world-class traditional method sparkling wines. 


And a special thank you to Chef Giulio Gigli of Ristorante UNE for the delicious and creative small bites that accompanied the Scacciadiavoli wines.

Tenuta Castelbuono

Alessandro Lunelli and winemaker Luca Capaldini

Simultaneously futuristic and organic, Tenuta Castelbuono makes heads turn. Did aliens build this winery in Umbria or did it hatch from the earth? Proprietor Alessandro Lunelli solved the mystery: Acclaimed contemporary artist Arnaldo Pomodoro designed this unique structure, known as the “Carapace” (turtle shell), to blur the lines between architecture and sculpture.


Alessandro described the Carapace as a sculpture that people can enter. And upon entering, visitors can enjoy some solid wines. If the name Lunelli sounds familiar, it’s because their award-winning Ferrari wines are the pillars of Trentodoc, the traditional method sparkling wine from Trento, in the north of Italy. Intrigued by the quality of Sagrantino wines coming out of Montefalco, in 2001 the Lunelli family purchased Tenuta Castelbuono. A few years later, they committed to building a new winery to match their vision for crafting elegant and high-quality wines.

Terre de Trinci

Meet the dynamic duo of Nicola and Lorenzo Mattoni from Cantina Terre de Trinci! These charming and hardworking brothers are pouring their heart, soul, and expertise into making wines that authentically express the terroir and culture of Umbria. Nicola (on the left) is the winemaker and Lorenzo (right) handles marketing and exports. We often talk about the aging potential of Sagrantino and Terre de Trinci proved it by pouring an exceptional 1998 Sagrantino – it was full of energy and layers of flavor.

Antonelli

Filippo Antonelli
image courtesy of Antonelli 

Talk about a rich history -- this expansive estate, of 430 acres, is mentioned in several medieval documents and has been in the Antonelli family since 1881. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, overnight stays in a restored antique farmhouse, and cooking classes. 

Lungarotti 

Chiara (left) and Teresa Lungarotti (right) with their mother Maria Grazia. 
image courtesy of Lungarotti 

Considered one of Umbria's premier wineries, Lungarotti was founded by Giorgio Lungarotti in the 1960s. Today, his daughters Chiara (CEO) and Teresa (enologist) lead the company. 

 La VenerandaWith Roberto from La Veneranda. 

This small family-owned winery is one of the hidden treasures of the region and has deep roots in Montefalco; they’ve been cultivating land in the region since 1568. 

Romanelli 

image courtesy of Romanelli 

Three generations of the Romanelli family live and work together to produce wine and olive oil at their picture-perfect hilltop estate in the heart of Montefalco. They also have a wine shop in the historic town center. 

Benedetti & Grigi 

Benedetti & Grigi winemaker Matteo Basili

One of the newer wineries in Montefalco, Benedetti & Grigi produced their first vintage in 2014. 

Valdangius

Sandra and Danilo Antonelli make terroir-driven wines at their family's small farm in Montefalco. 

Terre di San Felice

On my last day in Montefalco, I spent a sweet morning at Terre di San Felice. I’ll never forget sitting in the backyard of the farmhouse and sharing wine and laughter with Carlo Mancini and his cousin who reminded me a bit of Robert DeNiro! I felt like I was visiting long lost family. Such a special moment. Lovely wines made from the heart. 

Where to Stay

La Rocca Guest House & Spa

image courtesy of La Rocca Guest House & Spa

Just a three-minute walk from Montefalco's main square, Piazza del Comune, this charming and comfortable guest house is owned by a Roman who left city life behind for Umbria's rustic appeal. Spacious rooms, gorgeous views of the countryside, and delicious breakfast. 

On my balcony at La Rocca Guest House

Where to Dine

Ristorante Locanda del Teatro Montefalco

Located just down the street from La Rocca Guest House, this elegant restaurant has it all: beautiful ambiance, attentive service, great wine list, and innovative interpretations of local cuisine. We liked it so much, we ate there twice! 

Enoteca di Benezzo

image courtesy of Enoteca di Benozzo

Located on the Piazza del Comune, this is a great spot for soaking in the local scene and enjoying local cheeses, salumi, and wines. 

Taste the Terroir: Tenuta Luce and Attems

Winemakers Daniele Vuerich (Attems, left) and Alessandro Marini (Tenuta Luce, right). 

My meeting with winemakers Alessandro Marina (Tenuta Luce) and Daniele Vuerich (Attems) was one of my most memorable appointments this year. 

I was so inspired by their passion and commitment to the art and science of winemaking. These young winemakers have already achieved great success; I look forward to following their careers for many years to come.

 

Attems and Tenuta Luce are both owned by the venerable Frescobaldi winemaking family.
Attems is located in Friuli, in the northeast of Italy, a region celebrated for white wines with texture and character. Tenuta Luce is located in the renowned Tuscan appellation, Montalcino.

Attems Pinot Grigio Ramato 2021($20) is an antidote to the bland and watery Pinot Grigio that has saturated the US market. Ramato means copper, and the wine gets its coppery hue from extended skin contact during maceration. Daniele described the wine as a “rosé-style Pinot Grigio” with “complexity and lively acidity.”


Attems “Cicinis” Sauvignon Blanc 2020 ($35) hails from the heart from the Collio region of Friuli. A single-vineyard wine, it is zesty and bright with a touch of herbs and a slightly creamy texture.


Tenuta Luce “Luce” Toscana 2019 ($130) is one of Italy’s iconic “Super Tuscan” wines and the first in Montalcino to blend Sangiovese and Merlot. Alessandro said the “very flamboyant” Merlot is balanced by the acidity of the Sangiovese. Silky and almost creamy with rich red fruit flavors and a kiss of spice.

Tenuta Luce Brunello di Montalcino 2017 ($135) is an elegant and classic expression of the regal Brunello. Bold and balanced with well-integrated tannins and a long finish, the Sangiovese grape sings in the glass.

Destination Lugana: Impressive White Wines from Lake Garda

Tired of sipping the same old white wines? Break out of your rut with Lugana wines! Located in the north of Italy, on the beautiful southern shores of Lake Garda, Lugana produces some of Italy’s most delicious and charming white wines. The wines are made from the ancient indigenous grape Turbiana, which thrives in the unique microclimate of Lugana. Lake Garda’s breezes regulate the temperature and keep the grapes healthy. Plenty of sunshine and rich white clay soils also contribute to Lugana's fresh, approachable, mineral, and food-friendly personality. 

To learn more about Lugana, watch the recording of my Instagram Live featuring four Lugana producers: Avanzi, Cà Maiol, Pasini San Giovanni, and Pilandro. 

Visit DestinationLugana.com to learn more about Lugana wines and a series of special events in New York City -- 13 restaurants and 2 clubhouses will feature special menus and wines from 28 Lugana producers. Cheers!

 

A Tuscan Dream Come True: The Wines of Rocca delle Macìe

When I first met Sergio Zingarelli, President of Rocca delle Macìe winery, in November 2019, there was no crystal ball around to warn us that we were living in the good old days: life before the Covid-19 pandemic. Sitting around a table at a Manhattan restaurant, our group of wine professionals didn’t know that global turmoil was just around the corner. Still, we instinctively laughed and savored each sip of his family’s wines because it was clearly a moment to treasure. Thank goodness for those memories. They were a sustaining force during the endless days of social distancing when it seemed like sitting side-by-side in enclosed spaces was destined for the history books.

It's hard to believe that almost 3 years had passed since my first tasting with Sergio Zingerelli. 

Well, don’t count out the human spirit, especially when paired with the power of science. Now that most of the world is vaccinated and boosted, the situation has vastly improved. And because of this progress, in September 2022, almost three years since our first tasting, I had the pleasure of meeting with Sergio again for a vertical tasting of the 2010 -2018 vintages of his eponymous Sergio Zingarelli Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG. Impeccably tailored and with the manners to match, Sergio is rightfully proud of what his family has accomplished in the world of wine.

Many wineries have an intriguing backstory, but the story of Rocca delle Macìe is genuinely cinematic. Sergio’s father, Italo Zingarelli, led a colorful life worthy of a biopic: He had a brief career as a boxer before transitioning to work in film as an extra and stuntman. That opened the door for the elder Zingarelli’s impressive career as a film producer, and director of popular “Spaghetti Western” films, including They Call Me Trinity and Trinity Is Still My Name. Italo’s success in the film industry enabled him to fulfill his dream of owning a wine estate in Tuscany. “And so, in 1973, in contrast to all those who at the time were fleeing the countryside to work in the city, he purchased a rundown 14th-century borgo in Castellina in Chianti and set about painstakingly restoring the buildings, thus giving rise to the Rocca delle Macìe winery,” said Sergio.

In 1984, Sergio joined his father at Rocca delle Macíe and worked his way up to his current leading man role of President. Italo passed away in 2000 but remains a source of inspiration for Sergio and his siblings: “My father managed to infuse me, my brother Fabio, and my sister Sandra with his great passion for Tuscany and for the art of winemaking, as well as with the desire and enthusiasm to continue writing the never-ending story that binds the art of wine-making to the life of man.”

Sitting across the table from Sergio and knowing the story of his family certainly adds more texture, nuance, and energy to the tasting experience. But the wines stand on their own. Elegant with a freshness that endures even in older vintages, they are a sippable and sophisticated snapshot of time and place.

Our tasting focused on the single-vineyard Sergio Zingarelli Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG. Sergio told me that the vineyard is visible from his kitchen window. Representing the top tier of the Chianti Classico pyramid, Gran Selezione is a relatively new category introduced in 2014. It has secured its position as a stellar and age-worthy expression of Sangiovese.

Like a well-made movie, the story of Rocca delle Macìe has many layers -- passion, creativity, family, and true grit. And the wines capture this complexity in an energetic and elegant style. And who doesn’t love a happy ending where dreams come true?

Tasting Notes

The 2015 and 2016 vintages of Sergio Zingarelli Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG are currently available in the US marketplace and sell for about $100 per bottle. The 2017 vintage is coming soon, and 2018 should reach American shores in 2023.

2015 and 2016 were both exceptional vintages in Chianti Classico. Both Sergio Zingarelli wines are 100% Sangiovese with impressive balance and freshness. I found 2015 a bit more opulent and luscious than 2016 – rich and round with pops of spice; it reverberates on the palate like an opera diva with precision and passion. 2016 is slightly more restrained and less va va voom. A bit shy in the beginning, its bright and rich flavors open beautifully in the glass. 2017 was a hotter vintage, and although the ripeness of the fruit is more pronounced, it is not jammy -- the freshness is still there. I did get a sneak peek of 2018; it is still a baby by Gran Selezione standards, but the structure and freshness are promising signs.

And, if you’re looking for a refreshing white wine with character, I recommend their 2021 Campo Maccione Vermentino ($16) from Rocca delle Macìe’s estate in Tuscany’s coastal Maremma region. A subtly salty kiss of the sea meshes perfectly with its flavors of white peach, lemon, and a pop of pineapple.

From Montalcino to Maremma: A Conversation with Tancredi Biondi Santi

Tancredi Biondi Santi, Castello di Montepó

Any discussion of Italian wine history would be incomplete without acknowledging the contributions of the Biondi Santi family. In the 1800's, Ferruccio Biondi Santi planted the first vineyard in Montalcino with a clone of Sangiovese. That grape was Sangiovese Grosso, the soul of the iconic wine Brunello di Montalcino. Bottles of Brunello bearing the Biondi Santi name have long captivated wine lovers, but the family has spread their wings beyond Montalcino to Maremma and their hilltop winery estate in southern Tuscany, Castello di Montepò. 


Castello di Montepò Sassoalloro 2015 ($35) is fresh and crisp, with bright cherry flavors and juicy acidity. An elegant sip! 

I recently had the pleasure of catching up with Tancredi Biondi Santi on Instagram Live -- we first met in New York in 2018. Tancredi proudly represents the seventh generation of the Biondi Santi winemaking dynasty. During our chat, we sipped Sassoalloro 2015 and discussed how his family's proprietary Sangiovese Grosso clone, known as BBS11, responds to the unique terroir of Castello di Montepò. Scroll down or click here to watch our conversation! 

Exploring Other Italian Wines

Recently, I was a guest on the Inside Wine podcast, hosted by Joe Janish. The theme was Exploring Other Italian Wines and we focused on wines beyond the well-known Prosecco, Chianti, and Pinot Grigio. By the end of the chat, I hope you're inspired to pour a glass of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Greco di Tufo, Carricante, Verdicchio, Trentodoc, Francicorta, or Lambrusco! Click this link to listen! 

 

Say Ciao to Mionetto Prosecco Rosé

image courtesy of Mionetto

No, your eyes aren't playing tricks on you; there's a flirty pink glow emanating from the Prosecco aisle of your favorite wine shop. Prosecco Rosé was officially approved as a DOC in 2020 and the wines have started arriving in the US. Wine lovers no longer have to choose between Prosecco's perky bubbles and rosé's blush-hued charms. To learn more about the new Prosecco Rosé category, I recently chatted on Instagram Live with Enore Ceola, CEO and Managing Director of Freixenet Mionetto USA.


Enore Ceola, CEO and Managing Director of Freixenet Mionetto USA

A native of the Prosecco region, Enore is widely credited for not only introducing Mionetto to American consumers, but to Prosecco overall as a category. Founded in 1887 in Valdobbiadene, Mionetto Prosecco became available in the USA in 1997 and paved the way for the expansive selection of Prosecco wines at our fingertips. Even The New York Times proclaimed, “Perhaps no one has pushed harder to establish Prosecco in the United States than Mionetto.”

There are exacting standards that a wine must meet in order to be labeled Prosecco Rosé DOC. For example, Glera, the grape which is the heart and soul of Prosecco, must dominate the blend. Pinot Nero is the only grape permitted in the rosé blend and only 10-15% is permitted. And all Prosecco Rosé must be dated with a vintage. During our chat, Enore explained all of this and more as we sipped Mionetto Prosecco Rosé Millesimato 2019 ($15). A blend of 90% Glera and 10% Pinot Nero, it is Extra Dry with vibrant red berry flavors and a kiss of citrus. 

The Innovative, Elegant, and Biodynamic Beauty of Querciabella Wines from Tuscany

Manfred Ing, Winemaker, Querciabella

Hopping a flight overseas remains a daydream during these long days of social distancing, but thankfully traveling the world through wine is a reality. Recently, I took a virtual journey to beautiful Tuscany through the wines of Querciabella with winemaker Manfred Ing. Watch our Instagram Live conversation on IGTV, YouTube, or by clicking the video below. 

Founded in 1974 with a single hectare vineyard in Tuscany, today Querciabella has more than 100 hectares in Chianti Classico and Maremma. In 1988, Querciabella converted to organic viticulture and in 2000 they introduced a 100% plant‑based approach to biodynamics that forbids the use of animal products in their vineyards or cellars. During our conversation, Manfred shared Querciabella's winemaking philosophy, a definition of biodynamic winemaking, and his fascinating journey from his native South Africa to becoming a winemaker in Tuscany.


We tasted two Querciabella wines: Chianti Classico 2017 ($30) and Camartina 2015 ($150). A very classic and pure expression of Chianti Classico, the Sangiovese grapes were sourced from Greve in Chianti, Radda in Chianti, and Gaiole in Chianti. This tapestry of grapes from unique terroirs adds complexity and nuance to this very fresh and pretty wine. Camartina has been the estate's signature Super Tuscan since 1981. A blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Sangiovese, it is only produced in the best vintages. Rich and balanced, Camartina will age beautifully; a worthy splurge. 

Sip This: Hey French is a Fine Italian Wine That Will Make You Giggle!

I jokingly call the Pasqua brothers the “Bad Boys of Verona." In reality, Alessandro and Riccardo are absolute gentlemen, but they do love to shake things up. Many people in the wine world talk about experimentation and innovation, but the Pasquas actually do it. Their cheekily named wine, Hey French, You Could Have Made This But You Didn’t ($40), is a perfect example of their wicked sense of humor and commitment to crafting fine wine. 

A blend of mostly Garganega, rounded out with Pinot Bianco and Sauvignon, Hey French is a multi-vintage wine and combines 2013, 2015, 2016, and 2017 – considered the four best vintages of the last decade. The grapes were sourced from the easternmost section of Soave Classico, on the Veronese side of Monte Calvarina. 

You can taste the influence of the rich volcanic soils in this beautifully textured vino. This is no wimpy white wine. Hey French has vibrant flavors of golden apple, quince, lemon zest, chamomile, and a hint of tropical fruit and almond. A touch of salinity really brings the fruit flavors alive and the minerality is tangible. The finish is delightfully long. 

Wondering about the vinification? According to Pasqua, “For each year selected, the vinification of white grapes takes place with maceration on the skins for about 10 hours. Later, alcoholic fermentation is activated with selected yeasts at low temperatures. A partial malolactic fermentation follows with approximately 10% of the product in barriques. The process continues with aging in second-use wood for about 6 months. Then the wine is placed in steel tanks for further refinement.”

Hey French is a cheeky tribute to the French winemakers and regions that inspire the Pasqua brothers. The quirky label was created by French-Cuban artist CB Hoyo. How do the French feel about Hey French? Alessandro Pasqua said, “Luckily, there are many who enjoy a good joke! The first account to take this wine was a Michelin-starred French restaurant!”

I love a creative and beautifully crafted wine with a sense of humor, and Hey French is a winner. The photo of yours truly with the Pasqua brothers is from 2019. Looking forward to tasting again with them one day! 

Sun, Soul, and Song: Savor Sicily with the Wines of Donnafugata

When exploring wines, José Rallo, CEO and Co-Owner of Donnafugata
encourages everyone to "Discover Sicily. Trust Sicily. You'll be in Sicily with just a sip!"

For the season finale of Wine With Wanda on Instagram Live, I wished for a vibrant, charming, and clever guest, who also makes beautiful wine. 5th generation vintner José Rallo was the obvious choice. CEO & co-owner of the award-winning Sicilian winery Donnafugata, José is a savvy businesswoman with the soul of an artist.

When José is described as the face and voice of Donnafugata, they really mean it. A talented vocalist, José believes in the synergy of wine and music, and her communications strategy includes events such as the "Donnafugata Music & Wine Live" events. José has recorded two CD's and performed around the world at prestigious venues, including the Blue Note in New York City.

Donnafugata was founded in 1983 by José's parents, Gabriella and Giacomo Rallo, and her brother Antonio is the winemaker. Donnafugata is celebrated for their terroir-driven style that expresses an authentic taste of Sicily and the Sicilia DOC. I visited Donnafugata in 2017; it was a magical experience.

Watch the video above, on Instagram, or YouTube to learn more about Donnafugata and to hear José sing a lovely snippet of the jazz song An Older Man Is Like An Elegant Wine. We also discussed the inspiration behind Donnafugata's bold artistic labels and the name of the winery: Donnafugata means woman in flight or escaped woman. 

During our chat, we sipped Donnafugata Sur Sur Grillo 2019 Sicilia DOC ($21) and Donnafugata Mille e Una Notte 2016 Sicilia DOC ($85).


Sur Sur is the first Donnafugata wine that I ever tasted and this sentimental favorite never disappoints me. Crafted from the native Sicilian grape Grillo, this is a beautifully textured and aromatic white wine. Juicy flavors of peach and melon are revved up by mouthwatering minerality and salinity. A sultry sip of Sicilian sunshine! 

 

First produced in 1995, Mille e Una Notte is Donnafugata's flagship wine, and José describes it as the dream of her father Giacomo. The name Mille e Una Notte was selected by her mother Gabriella -- when she tasted the wine for the first time, she told her husband that it was like the powerful literary masterpiece A Thousand and One Nights. A velvety and rich blend of Nero d'Avola, Petit Verdot, and Syrah; it is a big but graceful wine with gorgeous flavors of black fruits, herbs, and earth. Stunning now, classic and elegant Mille e Una Notte is crafted to age beautifully. 

There's More Than 1000 Years of History in a Bottle of Contucci Vino Nobile di Montepulciano

One of the many reasons I love Sangiovese is how beautifully it expresses the diverse terroirs of Tuscany. Chianti, Chianti Classico, and Brunello di Montalcino may be Tuscany’s best-known Sangiovese-based wines, but Vino Nobile di Montepulciano also has a rich history and authentic sense of place. 

Contucci's vineyards in Montepulciano
image courtesy of Contucci

I recently tasted Contucci Rosso di Montepulciano 2018 DOC ($29.99) and Contucci Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2015 DOCG ($39.99). If you’re not too familiar with Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Contucci is a lovely introduction. The Contucci family is one of the oldest in Montepulciano; their roots in the region can be traced back to the eleventh century and their historic cellars are from the thirteenth century. 

Sangiovese grapes in the Contucci vineyards
image courtesy of Contucci

First things first – don’t confuse Vino Nobile di Montepulciano with Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, the latter is from a different region and made from the Montepulciano grape. Vino Nobile di Montepulciano hails from a specific zone in southern Tuscany and must contain at least 70% Sangiovese, which is locally known as “Prugnolo Gentile”.

Contucci's historic cellars
image courtesy of Contucci 

Contucci Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2015 is a blend of 80% Sangiovese and 10% each of Colorino and Canaiolo Nero. Aged for 24 months in big oak barrels, with an additional 6 months of bottle aging, the wine elegantly balances freshness with layered flavors of fruit, spice, and earth. Finesse and flavor! 

Contucci Rosso di Montepulciano 2018 is the flirty and fresher counterpart to the Vino Nobile. 80% Sangiovese and 20% Canaiolo Nero, the Rosso was aged for 6 months in large oak barrels and an additional 3 months in bottle. Fruit-forward and juicy with bright flavors of crisp and crunchy black cherries; this sip has a straightforward and approachable style that is very appealing. Both Contucci wines were lovely reminders that I really should drink more Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. 

Rotari Trentodoc is a Sparkling Taste of the Dolomites

 

There's more than one way to sparkle! The next time you're craving a glass of bubbly, pop the cork on a bottle of Rotari Trentodoc. Crafted from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes grown in steeply terraced vineyards from Trentino's valleys and hills in the heart of the Dolomites, Rotari is an elegant expression of the Italian Alps. Produced using the Metodo Classico, the bubbles in Rotari, and all Trentodoc, are created by a second fermentation in the bottle.

Rotari Brut Trentodoc 2014 ($19.99) is the perfect introduction to the Rotari style. Crisp and refreshing, the essence of Chardonnay shines through in each sip. This bubbly aged on the lees for 24 months and is imbued with wonderful yeasty notes. A really great value! 

I recently had the pleasure of tasting Rotari Trentodoc during an Instagram Live chat with winemaker Maurizio Maurizi. During our chat, we sipped Rotari Platinum Label Brut Trentodoc 2014, Rotari Rosé Trentodoc 2014, and Rotari Flavio Riserva Trentodoc 2010. Watch the video above, on YouTube, or IGTV to learn more about Rotari Trentodoc and for Maurizio's tasting notes and pairing suggestions. 

Rotari Brut Rosé Trentodoc 2014 ($19.99) is a fresh blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay with added texture and complexity from 24 months of aging on the lees. Pretty to the eye and on the palate! 

Only produced in exceptional vintages. Rotari Flavio Riserva Trentodoc 2010 ($64.99) shows the stunning aging power of a beautifully crafted Trentodoc. 100% Chardonnay, the wine was aged for 6 years on the lees and wows the palate with a vibrant tapestry of fruit, nut, and spice flavors. Very impressive! 

Maremma Memories: Where the Tuscan Spirit is Wild and the Wines are Magical

Vineyards at Fattoria di Magliano, in the heart of Tuscany's Maremma region. 

Maybe I should have consulted a psychic or given a crystal ball a vigorous shake? I certainly would have benefitted from some forewarning that my October 2019 journey to the Maremma region of Tuscany would be my last trip abroad for the foreseeable future. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to keep much of the world on lockdown, memories of past journeys are more precious than ever. Who knows when I'll travel overseas again, but I feel fortunate that the wines, landscapes, and people of Maremma are seared in my mind.  

The world's love affair with Tuscany and its wines is well-established, but we often overlook that Tuscany is not a monolith; the region consists of several different winemaking areas. While Chianti and Montalcino may be household names, you're almost guaranteed to get a quizzical look when you mention Maremma, even though its viticultural history goes back to the Etruscans. Known as Tuscany's wildest region, surely no one could have imagined that the former malarial marshland would transform into one of its most acclaimed wine regions. Maremma's reputation for wildness is bolstered by the charmingly rustic butteri, cowboys and cattle breeders that are a treasured link to Maremma's past and still roam the landscape.


The beach at Maremma Regional Park, a protected 25,000 acre nature reserve. 

Located in the southern part of Tuscany, Maremma Toscana DOC wines are produced across the entire province of Grosseto. Maremma's almost 9,000 hectares of vineyards span the breezy Maremma coastline, the slopes of the dormant volcano Mount Amiata, the Argentario peninsula, and Giglio Island. This diversity isn't just pleasing to the eye, but it also provides an abundance of unique soil and climatic conditions ideal for growing excellent grapes. And, we all know that excellent wines start with great grapes. Maremma is home to several charming indigenous grapes, including Ciliegiolo, which means little cherry. Ciliegiolo may be unfamiliar, but chances are you know its offspring; it is a parent of Sangiovese, Tuscany's most famous grape variety, and the foundation of many of its greatest wines. But an abundance of indigenous and international grape varieties also thrive in Maremma, including Sangiovese, Vermentino, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot.

There is no one style of Maremma wine. Maremma's crisp & mineral-driven whites, fruity reds, and complex age-worthy reds reflect the diversity of the terroir and grape varieties. The Consorzio Tutela Vini della Maremma Toscana (Consortium for the Protection of Maremma Toscana Wines), who graciously hosted my 2019 trip, stated that "Ripe fruit, subtle complexity, crispness and a pleasant mouth feel are common characteristics of the wines from Maremma. No other area in Tuscany can offer such a wide variety of wines, also due to the essential characteristics of the grape varieties grown here."

The COVID-19 pandemic may have temporarily clipped our travel wings, but the essence of Maremma is just a bottle away. Fill your glass with wines from one of these Maremma wines and let them transport you. Please note that I opted not to provide detailed tasting notes on the wines. I tasted many wonderful wines during my Maremma trip and these were some of my favorites. For tasting notes and other technical details, please click on the bottle or winemaker image; this will lead you the winery's website for additional information.  

Rocca di Frassinello


A joint venture between the Chianti Classico estate Castellare di Castellina and the iconic French wine producers Domaines Barons de Rothschild - Château Lafite, Rocca di Frassinello is a prime example of the excitement and investment Maremma generates from established winemakers. Founded in 2007, 90 of the estate's 500 hectares are planted to vineyards.

Adding further allure to the estate's natural beauty, Rocca di Frassinello's stunning winery was designed by world-renowned architect Renzo Piano. Under the leadership of award-winning head winemaker Alessandro Cellai, Rocca di Frassinello's wines are acclaimed for their elegance and authenticity.

Suggested Wines: 


Rocca di Frassinello 2015 Maremma Toscana DOC. 60% Sangiovese, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot. $59

Rocca di Frassinello Baffonero 2015 Maremma Toscana DOC. 100% Merlot. $240



Rocca di Frassinello Le Sughere di Frassinello 2016 Maremma Toscana DOC. 50% Sangiovese, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot. $24

L'Azienda Agricola Biologica Basile


I visited Maremma for the first time in 2015, and the afternoon I spent at Basile Organic Wine Farm was one of the highlights. So, it was a great pleasure to see Giovan Battista Basile again during my 2019 visit. Originally from Naples, Giovan left practicing law to work the vineyards when he and his brother Domenico purchased an abandoned hilltop vineyard in Maremma and poured their heart and soul into restoring the land. The winery was founded in 1999 and Giovan manages the organically farmed vineyards and vines.

Suggested Wine: Comandante 2015 Maremma Toscana DOC. 50% Sangiovese, 50% Merlot. ($25)

Val delle Rose

Famiglia Cecchi, an iconic producer of Chianti Classico, also saw Maremma's tremendous potential and acquired Val delle Rose in 1996. I visited Val delle Rose for the first time in 2015, and it was thrilling to see how the winery has evolved. Never losing sight of crafting wines that are true to the terroir, they also embrace innovation.


During my recent visit, I tasted several wines with winemaker Andrea Fioriello, including compelling expressions of Vermentino and Ciliegiolo. When asked about the aging of their wines in oak, Andrea said, "We use the wood as an instrument to make the wine more ready, more round, more soft." But he's careful to not overdo it and crafts wines with great freshness, grace, and minerality. 

Suggested Wines:


Val delle Rose Cobalto 2017 Maremma Toscana DOC. 100% Vermentino. A unique Vermentino that was fermented in a combination of amphora, oak, and stainless steel vessels and aged 10 months on the lees. $26 


Val delle Rose Ciliegiolo 2016 Maremma Toscana DOC. 100% Ciliegiolo. $30

Tenuta Belguardo


Francesco Mazzei, Managing Director of Mazzei, is also president of the Consorzio Tutela Vini della Maremma Toscana. Established in 2014, this consortium of wine grape growers, winemakers, and wine bottlers protects and promotes the quality of Maremma Toscana DOC wines. Mazzei stated, "An appellation has to reflect what a territory is about, and Maremma is a place of many varieties."

Founded in 1435, Mazzei is another venerable Chianti Classico producer that set their sights on Maremma. The Mazzei family purchased their Maremma estate, Tenuta Belguardo, in the mid 1990's. Located in the heart of the Maremma, on the hills between Grosseto and Montiano, and next to the Tyrrhenian Sea, the 70-hectare property has an ideal terroir for cultivating expressive grapes of exceptional quality. 

Suggested Wine: Tenuta Belguardo 2015 Maremma Toscana DOC. 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc. $60. 

Fattoria di Magliano


Located in the heart of Maremma, Fattoria di Magliano was founded in 2007. Their consulting winemaker, Graziana Grassini, is one of Italy's most acclaimed enologists and was a protégé of the legendary Giacomo Tachis. Fattoria di Magliano's gorgeous estate includes 52 acres of vineyards where they grow Sangiovese and Vermentino primarily, in addition to Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Ansonica. The wines of Fattoria di Magliano display impressive exuberance and vitality, but are also very elegant and earthy.

Suggested Wines: Fattoria di Magliano Altizi 2016 Maremma Toscana DOC. 100% Cabernet Franc. $65


Fattoria di Magliano Poggio Bestiale 2014 Maremma Toscana DOC. 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Cabernet Franc, 25% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot. $60

Rocca di Montemassi

Alessandro Gallo, winemaker and technical director for Rocca di Montemassi hails from Piemonte, but he still typifies the positive energy of the winemakers I met in Maremma: no matter where they're originally from, their love of this land is intense. Alessandro describes Rocca di Montemassi as a "wine farm" where winemaking is in harmony with other agricultural activities.


The 430-hectare estate, of which 180 are planted to vines, is also home to Maremmana cows, wheat fields, and olive trees. The Zonin family, a family with seven generations of winemaking experience and nine wineries in seven of Italy's most important wine regions, acquired the property in 1999.

Suggested Wine: Rocca di Montemassi 2016 Maremma Toscana DOC. 35% Syrah, 35% Petit Verdot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon. $30. 

Sassotondo


Agronomist Carla Benini, and her husband Edoardo Ventimiglia, purchased their Maremma estate in 1994 and produced their first vintage in 1997. Sassotondo's organically-farmed vineyards are alive with biodiversity, a testament to Carla's belief that "biodiversity protects you".  Sassotondo's portfolio includes several expressions of Ciliegiolo that were vinified differently to showcase this indigenous grape's capacity to create distinct styles of wine.

Suggested Wine:  Sassotondo Ciliegiolo 2018 Maremma Toscana DOC. 100% Ciliegiolo. ($18)

Maremma is More Than Wine


View from my room at the boutique hotel, Torre Cala Piccola. 

Wine is beautifully integrated into Maremma's culture, but the region is full of treasures.  Stunning landscapes, historical sites, and world-class dining make it a top-notch destination. For accommodations, I recommend the luxurious Terme di Saturnia Spa & Resort, where you can soak your troubles away in their world-famous ancient thermal waters. If you're craving a more laidback seaside vibe, Torre Cala Piccola is perched above the Argentario Sea and has breathtaking views of Giulio and Giannutri islands. Hotel Miramare is no-frills but comfortable and the beach is right at your feet! 

From rustic country fare to haute cuisine, I ate like a queen in Maremma. Recommended restaurants: Da Caino in Montemerano, where Chef Valeria Piccini presents an elegant twist on homestyle cooking.


Chef Valeria Piccini, Da Caino restaurant 



Chef Piccini's "Tortelli Cacio e Pere con Salsa de Barba Rossa (pasta stuffed with pear & cheese, with Barba Rossa grape sauce) 




Seafood lovers will gobble every fresh morsel presented by Chef Massimiliano Ciregia at Osteria del Mare in Castiglione della Pescaia. 

 Chef Ciregia's interpretation of the traditional fish stew, Cucciucco. 

I look forward to returning Maremma again one day and feeling as blissful as I did when this photo was taken in the vineyards of Rocca di Frassinello. Until then, I'll sip and daydream! 

900 Years Old and Still Going Strong: Ricasoli 1141 Continues to Innovate in Chianti Classico

Francesco Ricasoli
President & Owner, Ricasoli 1141
32nd Baron of Brolio

When your family's winemaking history can be traced back to 1141, the family tree is bound to have some exciting twists and turns. In my recent Instagram Live chat with Francesco Ricasoli, we dug into the roots of his family's iconic winery, Ricasoli 1141. Not only are they Italy's oldest winery, Ricasoli 1141 is the fourth oldest family business in the world. The family tree includes Baron Bettino Ricasoli; not only did he serve twice as the Prime Minister of Italy and play a prominent role in its unification in 1861, but in 1872 he also developed the original formula for the wine we know today as Chianti Classico. 

 When travel is possible and prudent again, consider a visit to Castello di Brolio. Guests can enjoy wine tastings, guided tours of the cellar and vineyards, and meals at Osteria di Brolio. 

Located in the heart of Tuscany's Chianti Classico region, in Gaiole in Chianti, Ricasoli's Castello di Brolio (Brolio Castle) sits majestically on 3,000 hilltop acres. 600 acres of the estate are planted to sustainably farmed vineyards, making it the largest estate in Chianti Classico under vine. In 1993, Francesco Ricasoli, 32nd Baron of Brolio, purchased back the family business after more than 20 years of foreign ownership. His innovation and determination have enabled Ricasoli to reclaim their former glory and take their wine to new heights. By spearheading a total renovation and re-mapping of the vineyards, Baron Ricasoli was able to reveal how Sangiovese grapes display distinct qualities depending on soil type and altitude. This valuable information enables Ricasoli 1141 to produce a broad range of Chianti Classico wines that are true depictions of terroir.  

During our chat, we discussed Ricasoli 1141's past, present, and future while sipping Castello di Brolio Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2015 ($70) and Casalferro Merlot 2008 ($70). Watch the video above, on IGTV, or YouTube to learn more, including Ricasoli's tasting notes and wine pet peeves. 


Castello di Brolio Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2015 ($70)
Representing the top tier of the Chianti Classico quality pyramid, Ricasoli 1141 only produces Gran Selezione in the best vintages. A blend of Sangiovese (90%), Cabernet Sauvignon (5%), and Petit Verdot (5%), this is a robust but graceful expression of Chianti Classico. Beautifully balanced with a long finish.  

Only produced in the best vintages, Casalferro Merlot 2008 ($70) is a single-vineyard Merlot. The grapes were planted in a former Sangiovese vineyard, leading Barone Ricasoli to describe the Merlot as "Chiantified." This is not an overly plummy Merlot, it is quite complex with a balanced interplay between fruit and minerality with a hint of spice. Rich but so very vibrant and fresh at 8 years old! 

Popping the Cork on Val d'Oca Prosecco

Ah, Prosecco. We pop the bottles, we toast with it, we use it as the base for our Mimosas, Bellinis, and spritzes. But do we actually know it? I fear that we take Prosecco for granted. To learn more about the world's most popular sparkling wine, in celebration of National Prosecco Week, I recently chatted on Instagram Live with Lorenzo Rispoli, export manager for Val d’Oca – Cantina Produttori di Valdobbiadene. 

One of Italy’s oldest and largest producers of Prosecco, Val d’Oca’s sparkling wines are made with Glera grapes that are cultivated and vinified in the hills of Valdobbiadene. The hills of Valdobbiadene aren’t just a beautiful landscape, they are a UNESCO World Heritage Site precisely because of their viticultural significance.

To learn more, watch the video above, on IGTV, or YouTube. During our chat, I sipped three wines from Val d'Oca's portfolio that showcase the range and diversity of Prosecco. 

Prosecco DOC Extra Dry ($12.99)
Fresh and crisp with a hint of sweetness. A bit (15%) of Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio blended with 85% Glera adds lushness and roundness. 

Millessimato Valdobbiadene Extra Dry Prosecco Superiore DOCG ($17.99)
Vintage prosecco from Valdobbiadene with lively fruit and great minerality. 85% Glera with 15% Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio. Crisper and less sweet on the palate than the Prosecco DOC. 

Rive di San Pietro di Barbozza Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG ($32.99)
100% Glera. A single-vineyard sensation with crisp and long-lasting bubbles, vibrant fruit flavors, and a hint of herbs. 

Lini 910 Makes Lambrusco the Way It Was Meant to Be

Alicia Lini, fourth-generation vintner, Lini 910

Lambrusco is a fantastic thirst quencher during these steamy summer days. Pop a cork on a bottle of Lini 910 and discover why these fizzy & chilled red wines from the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy are so special. I recently had the pleasure of chatting with fourth-generation vintner Alicia Lini on Instagram Live.

Alicia's great-grandfather founded the winery in 1910 and Lini 910 is celebrated for their fresh, food-friendly, and traditional dry style of Lambrusco -- the complete antithesis of those sticky sweet Lambrusco wines that flooded the market in the 1970s and 80s. Lini 910 is also very innovative, and their portfolio includes rosé and white Lambrusco. From pasta to pizza, burgers to BBQ, a perfectly chilled glass of Lini 910 Lambrusco pairs beautifully with a wide variety of foods, including Emilia-Romagna's famous delicacies like Prosciutto di Parma and Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Watch the video above, on IGTV, or YouTube to learn more. During our chat, we tasted Lini 910 “Labrusca” Lambrusco Rosé ($17) and Lini 910 “Labrusca” Lambrusco Rosso ($17).

Certified Organic & Absolutely Elegant: Col d'Orcia Brunello di Montalcino

 

"People tasting wines at home seem to interpret wines in a different way. Maybe it's because they're surrounded by the usual tastes and aromas. And maybe it's also because they're more relaxed. They tend to sense wine a lot better and I think that's important." 

- Count Francesco Marone Cinzano

It isn't everyday that you get to beam a count into your living room for a wine tasting, but thanks to technology, that's exactly what I did! The charming and erudite Count Francesco Marone Cinzano recently joined me on Instagram Live for a tasting of his beautiful Col d'Orcia Brunello di Montalcino. Col d’Orcia means “the hill overlooking the Orcia River” and it is one of the original estates of Montalcino -- its rich winemaking history dates back to the 1700s. Committed to sustainability, Col d’Orcia is now the largest certified organic estate in Tuscany and they poetically refer to themselves as an organic island.

Joining the Instagram Live chat from the vineyard, Count Cinzano shared tasting notes on Col d’Orcia Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2015 ($55) and Col d’Orcia Poggio al Vento Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG 2013 ($150). Both wines are a pure, powerful, and elegant expression of 100% Sangiovese. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Count Cinzano is offering wine lovers around the world to join him online for a guided Smart Tasting from the comfort of their homes. He loves the input that he receives from these tastings and says "People tasting wines at home seem to interpret wines in a different way. Maybe it's because they're surrounded by the usual tastes and aromas. And maybe it's also because they're more relaxed. They tend to sense wine a lot better and I think that's important." 

Watch our conversation on YouTube or IGTV.

Col d’Orcia Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2015 ($55)
Aged three years in oak casks and another year in bottle before release, this 2015 may be young by Brunello standards but it is remarkably approachable and balanced. Over time it will reveal even more complexity, but 2015 is an exceptional Five Star Vintage and the wine is singing beautifully now. Classic and fresh with a kiss of spice. 

Col d’Orcia Poggio al Vento Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG 2013 ($150)
During our chat, Count Cinzano shared that this was the first certified organic vintage of this Brunello di Montalcino Riserva. The wine is aged a minimum of six years prior to release; four years in Slavonian and French oak casks followed by at least two years refinement in bottle. This wine is an excellent example of the aging potential of a meticulously crafted Brunello di Montalcino. This wine will reveal even more nuance and finesse in the decades to come but right now it is superb. Intense and graceful with impeccable balance. 

 

 

An Authentic Taste of Marche & Abruzzo: The Wines of Umani Ronchi

Michele Bernetti, Owner & CEO, Umani Ronchi 

With his passionate commitment to maintaining his family's winemaking legacy, it's hard to believe that Michele Bernetti ever had any doubts about joining the family business. But after graduating from university with a degree in economics, it was a firm but loving letter from his father Massimo that convinced Michele that his future was at Umani Ronchi. Based on his enthusiasm and energy, I feel confident in stating that Michele has no regrets. It's been several months since I met Michele, and I can't help but smile as I remember his down-to-earth nature and fantastic wines. 



Umani Ronchi's vineyards in Castelli di Jesi 

Focused on crafting quality wines that are authentic expressions of the Marche and Abruzzo regions of Italy, since 1959 the Bianchi-Bernetti family has been meticulous in their approach to making the very best wines from the area's Montepulciano and Verdicchio grapes. Umani Ronchi has expanded significantly over the years and spans 520 acres spread between the hills and the sea along the Adriatic coast. That expansion has also inspired their interest in other varieties, including the charming Pecorino. Umani Ronchi's growth has been a very thoughtful and precise process, and they are committed to sustainable viticulture and organic farming of their vineyards. 

Who knows when I'll make it to Marche or Abruzzo, but Umani Ronchi's elegant and expressive wines make my travel daydreams so much lovelier. Grab a glass and let their wines take you away! 


Umani Ronchi Centovie Pecorino 2017 Colli Aprutino IGT ($31.99)
Don't let the name confuse you: this wine may share the same name as the delicious Italian cheese, but it contains 100% Pecorino grapes. Some say that sheep, pecora in Italian, liked to snack on these sweet grapes, and they inspired the name. This expression of Pecorino hails from the Abruzzo region. Michele explained to me that they like to "keep the nature of the grape," so the hand-picked Pecorino grapes were fermented in stainless steel and then aged in stainless steel and neutral large oak casks. Citrusy, zippy, crisp, juicy, and fresh, this dry but fruity white wine with its sassy hint of salinity is a fantastic summer sip. 

 
Umani Ronchi Casal di Serra Vecchie Vigne 2017, Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi DOC Classico Superiore ($37.99)
Vecchie Vigne means old vines, and these Verdicchio vines from Marche were planted in the 1970s. I wish people would drink more Verdicchio. Robust, nuanced, and age-worthy, Verdicchio is one of Italy's great white wines. Michele described this wine as having "more weight and shoulders." Aged on the lees for ten months and six months in bottle before release, it is crisp and dry with a beautiful mineral texture and flavors of white peach, citrus, pear, and a hint of salinity. 


Umani Ronchi Cúmaro 2015 Cónero Riserva DOCG ($40.99)
In a world awash with mediocre Montepulciano, Cúmaro is a delicious reminder of how delightful and nuanced it can be. Aged for 12-14 months in small oak barrels and at least 6-8 months in bottle, it has captivating aromas and flavors of ripe plum, blackcurrant, and black cherry with spicy kisses of black pepper and a touch of vanilla. 



Umani Ronchi Pelago 2015 Marche Rosso IGT ($55.99)
Pelago entered the wine world in a very dramatic fashion. A collaboration with the late acclaimed Italian oenologist Giacomo Tachis, in 1997, Pelago won the Best Red Wine Trophy at the International Wine Challenge -- that was the very first year of its production! With that stunning debut, Pelago instantly became one of the most sought after Italian wines in the world. A blend of Montepulciano (50%), Cabernet Sauvignon (40%), and Merlot (10%); it respects the essence of the native Montepulciano while melding harmoniously with the international varieties. Inspired by pelagos, which is Ancient Greek for the sea, Pelago is a luscious and rich red wine. Pelago certainly has a sultry marine quality that lifts the wine's bold black fruit and spice aromas and flavors. Gorgeous vino!


Visit the Umani Ronchi website to learn more about their history, winemaking philosophy, and full portfolio of wines. And although travel abroad remains challenging, keep Umani Ronchi in mind for your future trip to Italy. In addition to wine tastings and tours, they offer elegant accommodation options. 

PS - In the weeks leading up to the COVID-19 shutdown, I sensed an uneasiness in the NYC air. Even as I zipped around Manhattan attending the customary non-stop whirlwind of wine tastings, I knew the clock was ticking. News headlines from around the globe made it clear that it was only a matter of time before the Coronavirus would announce its presence in the Big Apple. On March 15th, NYC officially went into lockdown, and now, after more than three trying months, we are entering Phase 2 of our reopening. I know that I’m not alone in feeling that the past few months have been an emotional roller coaster. We’re still on the ride, but it’s less bumpy now.

As we approach the future with cautious optimism, I find myself wanting to move forward with a blank slate yet still honor the stories that I could not muster the energy to write as I worried about COVID-19’s impact on our world. The truth is, I’ll never be able to catch up completely, and I realize that the stories I write now can’t be the same as they would have been before COVID-19. The world is different. I’m different. So, as I ease back into this new life, I’ve decided to feature brief profiles of some of the wonderful winemakers that I met with before everything changed. I hope these short but sweet stories will inspire you to support them and to continue exploring the world through wine.

An Iconic Taste of Tuscany: Tenuta Luce Shines Bright on Its 25th Anniversary

“Our family has devoted centuries of our life to the world of fine wines.”
Marchese Lamberto Frescobaldi, President, Tenuta Luce 

For any lover of Italian wine, Frescobaldi needs no introduction. This noble Tuscan family's winemaking legacy spans more than 700 years, and they are committed to producing wines that celebrate Tuscany's beauty and diversity. I recently had the pleasure of chatting with Marchese Lamberto Frescobaldi on Instagram Live about a relatively new but significant chapter in the family's history -- Tenuta Luce in Montalcino. 

Founded 25 years ago as a collaboration with the Mondavi family, Tenuta Luce created Luce, Montalcino's first blend of Sangiovese and Merlot. The partnership with Mondavi ended in 2004 and Lamberto Frescobaldi has directed the project since then. The newly released 2017 vintage marks the 25th anniversary of this iconic vino. Watch the video of my conversation with Marchese Frescobaldi below, on YouTube, or Instagram Live to learn more about Tenuta Luce's history, winemaking philosophy and current vintages. 

The 25th anniversary bottle of Luce is decorated with words inspired by Marchese Frescobaldi's father, Vittorio: “Here is the memory of the vineyard and of the work, of the earth, and of the sun, of listening to time and to the singing of the seasons.”

During our chat, we sipped Tenuta Luce 2017 ($135). "Appearing a deep ruby, on the nose it offers intense scents of ripe berry fruit and dark-fleshed fruit. With aging, Luce develops a minerally edge and the pungent fragrances of Mediterranean scrub. Its dense, velvety tannins contribute to the wine’s magnificent structure, while the palate, remarkably full-bodied, progresses into a notably lengthy finish."


We also sipped Luce Brunello di Montalcino 2015 ($155). 100% Sangiovese, it was crafted as a tribute to Montalcino and its traditions. "Here is a noble, forceful wine with significant ageing potential. Appearing ruby red with garnet highlights, Luce Brunello vaunts a vibrant acidity and spice-laden structure, while silky tannins gradually unfold on the palate, revealing an elegance and multi-layered complexity that drive to a lengthy, intense conclusion."

Watch the video to learn more about Tenuta Luce and for Marchese Frescobaldi's tasting notes. 

 

 

For the Love of Family & Vino: A Conversation with Dominga Cotarella of Famiglia Cotarella Winery

 “Tradition is important, but it is the beginning of the process.” - Dominga Cotarella

The dynamic Dominga Cotarella of Famigila Cotarella recently joined me for a lively conversation on Instagram Live. In 1979, Dominga's father, Riccardo, and his brother Renzo founded the famed Falesco winery. Riccardo is one of Italy's most famous consulting enologists, and Renzo is the longtime CEO and chief winemaker for Antinori. In 2016, Dominga, and her cousins Marta and Enrica, officially took control of the family business. To mark this new chapter in their winemaking journey, they renamed the business Famiglia Cotarella to emphasize the family behind the label.

Watch the video here or on YouTube to learn more about the Cotarella family, their winemaking philosophy, and the hospitality school they founded several years ago, Intrecci. 

During our conversation, Dominga and I tasted two of Famiglia Cotarella's celebrated 100% Merlot wines, the single-vineyard Montiano 2015 ($66) and Sodale 2015 ($25).  


First produced in 1993, Montiano is a compelling and full expression of Merlot. Rich, juicy, and concentrated but impressively fresh and graceful, Montiano shows that Merlot can be pretty and powerful.  

Also 100% Merlot, 2015 is the first vintage of Sodale. It is the softer, fresher, and more approachable cousin to the acclaimed Montiano. An approachable yet impeccably made wine that is perfect for easy and elegant everyday drinking. 

Wine Still Matters

Alto Adige, Italy

LBC. Life Before Coronavirus. Before the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the planet, my days were a blissful swirl of wine tastings, wine seminars, winemaker interviews, and preparing for trips to wine regions. My, how things have changed. Like many of us, I am social distancing and staying at home. And that’s ok. It’s a small sacrifice to make. Unlike my friends working in hospitals, newsrooms, and grocery stores, I am not being asked to fight this virus from the frontline. We’re being asked to stay at home, a luxury that many of us used to lament was lacking in our over-scheduled lives. Let’s not mess this up.

I haven’t gone stir crazy yet from social distancing, but I do miss human interaction. Bound by the vine, the wine community is a warm one where even strangers hug and share kisses on the cheek. We sit side-by-side, often spitting wine into shared spittoons at tastings. (OK, I don’t really miss the spitting, but it is an important part of the winetasting ritual.) I can’t help but wonder how some of these norms will change once the curve is flattened. Will elbow bumps forever replace kisses on the cheek?


Secastilla vineyard, Somontano, Spain

Thanks to Facebook and WhatsApp, I’ve been able to stay connected with my winemaking friends around the globe, especially those in Spain and Italy. I worry and pray for their safety as COVID-19 wreaks havoc on their countries. My love of Italy and Spain goes far beyond the beautiful wines they produce. These two countries, where I've spent the most time abroad, have taught me priceless lessons about the importance of living life to the fullest and that as people, what binds us together is stronger than our differences. I’ve also shared virtual happy hours with my New York drinking buddies. For now, we can't huddle together over a bottle of vino at our neighborhood wine bar but clinking glasses over cyberspace is an important reminder that we’re not alone. We're socially distant but perhaps closer than ever.  

As I adapt to this new reality, I’ve been struggling with the best way to continue writing about wine. It is impossible to ignore that the world is in upheaval and that many of us are scared. Honestly, for the past few weeks, I haven’t been able to pour my heart into writing long and in-depth wine stories. To do so, almost seemed frivolous as people are fighting for their lives and mourning the loss of loved ones.

But I also believe that maintaining some sense of routine during harrowing times is essential. It may seem silly, but each morning I put on earrings and lipstick. They’ve been part of my daily regimen for decades and to abandon them now would rattle me. And after a long day of watching pandemic press briefings, a glass of wine is a precious gift. I don’t know when I will stroll through vineyards again but wine keeps me connected to the soul and soil of places that I love and inspires curiosity for those I've yet to visit.

My home state of New York has deemed wine and spirits retailers as essential during this pandemic and business has been brisk - this is good for the economy here and abroad. There's no denying the importance of the wine industry to the GDP of many nations. I always encourage responsible drinking but let’s face it, wine and spirits can provide a giddy escape on these long and uncertain days. But wine’s true essentialness is found in its artistry, its expression of place, and its power to connect us. What could be more essential to our humanity?

I’ll be back soon with stories of the wines, regions, and people that mean so much to me. I appreciate them now more than ever. 

Stay safe. Stay home. Stay connected. 

Cheers, 

Wanda

Ciao, Gattinara!: There's Something Special About Travaglini

Cinzia Travaglini and her daughter Alessia Collauto Travaglini represent the 4th and 5th generations of their family's prestigious winery in the Gattinara region of Piemonte. 

Don’t let Gattinara’s tiny size fool you; its 100 hectares produce some of Italy’s most intriguing wines. And no serious conversation or tasting of Gattinara is complete without Travaglini. Not only does the Travaglini family’s 59 hectares represent more than half of Gattinara’s total size, their pioneering winemaking techniques, such as experimenting with barrique, are credited with elevating the quality and reputation of Gattinara.

Located in the northwest of Italy in Piemonte, Gattinara once spanned almost 600 acres and is actually an older winemaking region than Barolo. But phylloxera and a devasting hail storm destroyed the region and by 1905 winemaking had been abandoned. The Travaglini family has owned land in Gattinara since the beginning of the 19^th century and made small amounts of wine for local consumption but it wasn’t until 1958 that Travaglini Estate Winery was officially created.

image courtesy of Travaglini

I was recently invited to a tasting of Travaglini Gattinara with the dynamic mother and daughter team of Cinzia Travaglini and Alessia Collauto Travaglini. Their passion and poise were inspiring. I left the tasting with the feeling that the Travaglini family doesn’t just make wine, they ARE wine. Wine unites them as a family, it is their legacy and their future.  

Like Barolo, Gattinara DOCG wines are produced from 100% Nebbiolo. Travaglini’s wines have a finesse and freshness that can be attributed to the cooling winds of the nearby Alps. Of course, masterful winemaking is required to ensure that the natural beauty of these Nebbiolo grapes is not destroyed by over-manipulation. Gattinara’s judicious use of oak enhances and frames the flavors of Nebbiolo without dominating it. “Produce quality, maintain quality” is the Travaglini philosophy, said Cinzia. Cinzia’s husband, Massimo Collauto, assumed the role of chief winemaker from his father-in-law and mentor Giancarlo Travaglini and carries on this tradition. 


Another thing that you’ll notice about Travaglini is the distinctive shape of their bottle. Designed by Giancarlo Travaglini in 1958, the design cleverly catches sediment during pouring, eliminating the need for decanting. The dark color prevents light from passing through and negatively impacting the quality of the wine. Travagalini’s wines are made to age and the bottle design nurtures that process. 

Nebbiolo Coste Della Sesia DOC 2017 ($20.99), Travaglini’s entry level wine, is a fresh and fruit-forward introduction to their style. Aged in stainless steel (4 months) and Slavonian oak casks (10 months), it is crisp and easy to drink with crunchy red fruit flavors and a kiss of spice & herbs. A lighter-bodied red, you can even serve this slightly chilled.



Gattinara DOCG 2015 ($32.99)
Nebbiolo is often described as tasting of tar and roses and this wine elegantly expresses the grape’s grit and grace. Aged for 3 years in Slavonian oak casks, this full-bodied wine has a sinewy muscularity that keeps its red fruit and herbal flavors buoyant and not clunky.



Gattinara Tre Vigne DOCG 2013 ($49.99) is a blend of three single vineyard sites. The combination of Nebbiolo grapes from these unique sites creates a harmonious wine that is full and juicy with flavors of cherry, rose water, truffle, and black pepper. Aged for 4 years in Slavonian oak casks.

Gattinara Riserva DOCG 2013 ($59.99) is produced from Nebbiolo grapes from the best parcels in Travaglini’s oldest vineyards (35-60 years old). Aged for 3 years in Slavonian oak casks, its red fruit flavors are accented by hints of clove and bitter chocolate. 

Il Sogno 2014 ($127.99), which translates to “The Dream”, was inspired in name and style by Cinzia’s father, Giancarlo. A fan of Sforzato wines from Valtellina that are crafted from dried Nebbiolo grapes, Giancarlo imagined creating a similar wine in Gattinara. For Il Sogno, hand-harvested Nebbiolo grapes were air-dried for 100 days to intensify their flavors and sugars. The grapes were fermented once 50% of their water content evaporated. Aged for 40 months in Slavonian oak casks, it is rich, luscious, and sweet but good acidity and pops of spice save it from being cloying. A really beautiful vino! 


image courtesy of Travaglini

If you’re planning a trip to Piemonte, Travaglini welcomes visitors. Reservations required. 

A True Taste of Trentino: Ferrari Trentodoc Sparkling Wine

How can air be this fresh? My Manhattan lungs weren’t quite prepared for Trentino’s intense infusion of clean and crisp mountain air. I greedily gulped it in. My goodness, it was delicious. I felt absolutely rejuvenated. With air like this, Ferrari sparkling wines start off with a strong advantage — grapes that have been caressed day-in and day-out by the pristine mountain breezes that flow through Ferrari’s vineyards in the northeast of Italy. Lucky grapes.


Founded in 1902 by Giulio Ferrari, Ferrari is the most awarded and renowned producer of one of Italy’s finest wines: Trentodoc. Inspired by Champagne, Ferrari was determined to show the world that Italy could produce elegant sparkling wines with character and complexity. Recognizing that the soil and climate of Trentino provided the ideal conditions for his venture, Ferrari is credited for Italy's first significant plantings of Chardonnay. The name Trentodoc cleverly combines Trento, the wine’s city of origin, with DOC, (Denominazione di Origine Controllata), an official designation used to classify Italian wines. Produced in the same labor-intensive manner as Champagne, Ferrari and all Trentodoc wines are crafted using the Metodo Classico and its bubbles are created by a second fermentation in the bottle.

In 1952, Giulio Ferrari, who had no children, selected Bruno Lunelli, the owner of a wine shop in Trento, as his successor. Today, the third generation of the Lunelli family, Marcello, Camilla, Matteo, and Alessandro, are keeping the legacy alive and enchanting wine lovers around the world with their excellent wines and sparkling attitude. 

As an unabashed lover of sparkling wines, I’ve been a fan of Ferrari Trentodoc since I was introduced to their wines several years ago. I quickly noticed that my enthusiasm for Ferrari’s elegant bubbles was shared by my Italian friends living in my hometown of NYC. Whenever I showed up with a bottle of Ferrari, there were audible oohs and aahs of appreciation and anticipation. For them, Ferrari isn’t just a taste of home but a testament to fine Italian craftsmanship and the sanctity of celebration. Toasting with Ferrari means the moment, big or small, matters.

Freshly harvested Ferrari Chardonnay grapes.

The method is the same, and even the grapes, primarily Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, but make no mistake, Trentodoc is no pale imitation of Champagne. These “sparkling wines from the mountains” stand on their own. As stated on the Trentodoc website, “Trentodoc is the expression of the land it comes from, Trentino. Trentodoc expresses its climate, high altitudes, and essence. From the highest Alpine peaks to the Mediterranean climes of the foothills where the temperatures are mitigated by the Ora del Garda winds, and the continental climate in the valley, every glass is unique and carries the character of its place of origin.”

Marcello Lunelli, Ferrari's chief winemaker, was animated and passionate during our vineyard stroll. 

It’s almost become a cliché but some variation of the phrase “great wine starts in the vineyards” has become a mantra for winemakers around the globe. But what does that really mean? Marcello Lunelli, Ferrari’s chief winemaker, emphasized that Ferrari’s wines don’t exist in isolation, they are an expression of the territory. “The fingerprint of a company like Ferrari is the territory. Without territory, you are nothing,” Marcello insisted.

Pinot Noir grapes at Ferrari awaiting the perfect moment for harvesting. 

Even with their impressive output of 5.5 million bottles per year, which represents 20% of Italy’s total production of Metodo Classico wines, Ferrari’s wines are never generic. To maintain a true taste of territory in every bottle; all of their grapes come from mountain vineyards. The warm days and cool nights of these higher altitude vineyards have a tangible impact on the grapes, imbuing them with an expressive range of flavors and aromas. Ferrari owns 100 hectares of certified organic vineyards and sustainability protocols are in place for their 600 grape growers.

Ferrari knows that fostering biodiversity in the vineyard is essential to growing healthy grapes. Bees are important partners in building a strong eco-system. 

Exported to more than 50 countries, Ferrari is not only the toast of Italy but beloved around the globe. And the experts have noticed. In 2019, The Champagne & Sparkling Wine World Championships recognized Ferrari as Sparkling Wine Producer of the Year. I concur that Ferrari’s wines hold their own against, and often outshine, other high-quality, traditional method sparkling wines.


During my visit to Ferrari, they confidently hosted a comparative tasting of their wines alongside some of the most celebrated traditional method wines from Italy and France. In my estimation, from non-vintage to top cuvée, single-varietal or blend, in each category Ferrari either dominated or tied but never faltered. Under the innovative and passionate leadership of the Lunelli family, Giulio Ferrari’s dream of producing world-class sparkling wines has been achieved. 

Are you ready to take your palate on a sparkling adventure with Ferrari? Here are a few of my favorite sips from their impressive portfolio.


Ferrari Brut Trentodoc ($27.99) was my dazzling introduction to Ferrari and never fails to impress me. Consistently crisp and clean, this 100% Chardonnay bubbly has the perfect balance between fresh flavors of citrus and apple with a hint of bready yeast.

A blend of Pinot Noir (60%) and Chardonnay (40%), Ferrari Brut Rosé Trentodoc ($35.99) is brazenly pretty with an elegant and streamlined structure. Like a ballerina, it twirls gracefully across the palate with flavors of fresh raspberry, strawberry, and a hint of crunchy red apple.


Ferrari Perlé 2013 Trentodoc ($42.99) is an excellent example of how beautifully an impeccably crafted Trentodoc can age. 100% Chardonnay, it is the more complex and nuanced companion to the Ferrari Brut. There’s a sultry smokiness to its citrus flavors. Hints of almond and warm bread crust are elegant traits found consistently throughout the Ferrari Trentodoc portfolio.

100% Chardonnay, Ferrari Riserva Lunelli 2009 Trentodoc ($64.99) spent an impressive minimum seven years aging on the lees. That extended yeast contact imbues it with a luxurious richness and complexity. Juicy and round with accents of toasty lemon meringue and a kiss of spice; this is a sexy and sophisticated sip. 

Last on my list but very far from least, Giulio Ferrari Riserva del Fondatore Trentodoc 2007 ($134.99) is one of my favorite wines that I tasted last year. 100% Chardonnay, it is a multi-dimensional sparkling wine with an expansive and elegant range of flavors and textures. Crisp, mineral, fruity, floral, and nutty with touches of honey and soft spice, it’s all in the glass. This is a wine to savor.

As a wine writer, and most importantly, a wine lover; I love trying new wines from every corner of the globe. But there’s an undeniable comfort and satisfaction in finding a producer that crafts wines that keep you coming back year after year. Consistently elegant, nuanced, festive, and drinkable, Ferrari Trentodoc adds an essential spark of joy and beauty to every occasion.


If you're planning a trip to Italy, Ferrari welcomes visitors for tours and tastings. And for an exceptional wine & dine experience, make a reservation at Ferrari's Michelin-starred restaurant, Locanda Margon.

It Started in Florence: How Tenuta di Lilliano Chianti Classico Came Into My Life

Alessandro Ruspoli represents his family's winery, Tenuta di Lilliano, around the world. 

It was a chilly night in Florence when our dinner hosts, politely yet firmly, nudged a giddy entourage of wine professionals into taxis after a Chianti Classico fueled dinner. Dinner had sashayed past the scheduled time, but in Italy you don't rush good wine and good conversation. Tucked into a tiny taxi with two dapper Italian gentlemen, our small talk took an interesting turn when the eldest, an internationally renowned Italian wine expert, admonished me and exclaimed, “How could you not know Tenuta di Lilliano? They are one of the most important wineries in Chianti Classico!” And that is how I met, Alessandro Ruspoli.

A few months later, I discovered that the outspoken gentleman in Florence wasn’t the only ardent fan of Alessandro and his family’s wines. When I received an invitation from wine marketing guru Tony DiDio to join him and Alessandro for dinner, I immediately said yes. So on a rainy night in Manhattan, in the cozy environs of Casa Apicci, I finally had the chance for a proper Tenuta di Lilliano tasting and conversation with Alessandro.

Easygoing and good-humored, Alessandro is endearingly down-to-earth for someone who hails from an ancient aristocratic family whose history in Tuscany can be traced back to the Renaissance. Their roots in Rome go back to the 17^th century and the family still resides in the historic Ruspoli palace in the heart of the Eternal City. Princess Eleonora Ruspoli Berlingieri was the first to recognize the winemaking potential of their Tuscan estate and began bottling Lilliano’s wines in 1958. And yes, that crest on the bottle is the real deal; it bears the coats of arms of the Ruspoli and Berlingieri families.


image courtesy of Tenuta di Lilliano

But it takes more than a rich history and an aristocratic lineage to make good wine. At the end of the day, the wine has to speak for itself. I’ve made no secret of my affection for Chianti Classico and Tenuta di Lilliano’s wines are impressive. When I taste a glass of Chianti Classico, I want to encounter an authentic expression of Sangiovese that is true to the character of the grape, transmits the essence of terroir, and displays winemaking that is precise but not over-manipulated. Tenuta di Lilliano meets that threshold.

If you’re looking for beautiful red wines to share with friends and family this holiday season, and all year round, give Tenuta di Lilliano a swirl. Elegant and enjoyable, their Chianti Classico wines have the sophistication needed to impress wine snobs, but they are also approachable for wine rookies. Very food-friendly, they pair brilliantly with a wide variety of foods, including pasta, poultry, red meat, and cheeses.


Tenuta di Lilliano Chianti Classico DOCG 2016 ($20)
A blend of Sangiovese (90%) with kisses of Colorino (5%) and Merlot (5%), it is fresh and supple with a hint of spice to rev up those classic red cherry flavors of Sangiovese.



Tenuta di Lilliano Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 2015 ($32)
100% Sangiovese, 2015 was an exceptional vintage in Chianti Classico and you can taste those ideal conditions in this captivating vino. With a beautiful balance between freshness and structure, this sip is quite appealing now and has great aging potential. 


 
Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG 2015 ($36)
Gran Selezione represents the very top of the Chianti Classico quality pyramid and this is a worthy member of that elite club. A blend of Sangiovese (90%), Colorino (5%), and Merlot (5%), intermingled with rich and round fruit flavors are sassy savory notes of licorice and herbs. Lively acidity and tangible minerality round out this elegant composition.

image courtesy of Tenuta di Lilliano

If you’re planning a trip to Tuscany, Tenuta di Lilliano welcomes guests. Just a 45-minute drive from Florence, in addition to tastings they have luxury villas and apartments available for rent.

Behind the Bubbles: Mionetto Prosecco Just May Surprise You

 

image courtesy of Mionetto

Ahh, Prosecco. The word rolls merrily off the tongue and Italy’s most famous sparkling wine is so easy to sip. From leisurely brunches to energetic happy hours, Prosecco is everywhere and shows no signs of slowing down. If you’re a Prosecco fan, Mionetto is a very familiar name. I’m pretty certain that Mionetto was the first Prosecco that I ever sipped. But how much do you really know about Mionetto? I asked myself that very same question when I was invited to a tasting with Enore Ceola, CEO and Managing Director of Freixenet Mionetto USA. I knew he would have the answers.

Enore Ceola, CEO and Managing Director of Mionetto Freixenet USA and the man credited for creating the Prosecco craze in the US!
image courtesy of Mionetto

The New York Times declared: “Perhaps no one has pushed harder to establish Prosecco in the United States than Mionetto.” Enore can certainly take credit for that impressive achievement. Born in the Prosecco region, when Enore came to New York in the late 1990’s you would have been hard pressed to find a bottle of Prosecco. He is widely credited for not only introducing Mionetto to American consumers but to Prosecco overall as a category. Mionetto paved the way for the expansive selection of Prosecco wines that are now readily available in the US.

image courtesy of Mionetto

Prosecco may be trendy but Mionetto actually has a long and rich history. Founded in 1887 by winemaker Francesco Mionetto in Valdobbiadene, the heart of the Prosecco region, Mionetto is one of the area’s oldest wine producers. Each bottle of Mionetto contains 49 billion bubbles and countless connections to an important winemaking tradition.

Glera grapes are the foundation of Prosecco.
image courtesy of Prosecco DOC

Now that we’re all familiar with Prosecco at a macro level, Mionetto wants us to get micro. At its simplest, Prosecco can be defined as a white wine from northeast Italy, produced from the Glera grape, it can be sparkling, semi-sparkling, or still. But Mionetto, and many other producers, are exploring the finer nuances of Prosecco and crafting wines that transmit more complexity and a sense of terroir. (FYI, all of Mionetto’s wines are semi-sparkling and sparkling.)

Mionetto Prestige Brut Prosecco Treviso DOC ($14)
The vivid orange label is instantly recognizable and the Prosecco in the bottle is charmingly consistent. 100% Glera, it is a fresh, crisp, and classic expression of Prosecco.

Fruity but not sweet, it is delightful on its own and also the perfect foundation for the increasingly popular Aperol Spritz, along with Mimosas and Bellinis. Visit the Mionetto website for a great selection of Prosecco cocktail recipes and food pairing suggestions. 



Mionetto Prestige Organic Prosecco DOC Extra Dry ($16)
Another example of Mionetto’s trailblazing status, this was actually the first Prosecco made from organically-grown grapes. Crafted from 100% certified organic Glera grapes, it is crisp and vibrant with flavors of fresh green apple. Technically, Prosecco isn't health food but don't we all feel better when we see organic on the label? And Prosecco is actually pretty low in calories compared to other wines - around 80 calories per glass. 



Mionetto Prestige Rosé Extra Dry ($14)
Technically, rosé wines can’t be called Prosecco yet but Mionetto and other producers are working towards changing that regulation. The labels may not currently say Prosecco but sparkling pink wines from the Prosecco region are becoming increasingly popular. Mionetto’s delightful pink bubbly blends Raboso (70%) and Lagrein (30%) grapes from Veneto and Trentino. Fresh and flirty, it has juicy and crisp flavors of strawberry and raspberry.

My Mionetto tasting was an important reminder that some large and well-known wine brands have earned their popularity the real way, not just because of clever branding. At the foundation of Mionetto’s success is their commitment to making Prosecco that people enjoy and authentically represents the winemaking traditions of their region. I applaud them for making quality bubbles that everyone can enjoy. Cheers! 

PS If you really want to geek out on Prosecco, I encourage you to try the wines from Mionetto’s Luxury Collection – they are impressive, next-level Prosecco!