presented by Kati of Etruscan Imports
SOLCO ~ 2022
Appellation: Emilia Romagna, Italy. Beginning in 1926 and in their 4th generation of family run winemakers, Paltrinieri is the benchmark for quality Lambrusco (sparkling red).
Grapes: Lambrusco Salamino 100%, ABV 11%
Tasting notes: Deep purplish-red color with fine perlage (slight effervescence). Intense aromas meet your mouth with ripe fruit, cherry, pomegranate and crushed cranberry. Semi-sweet palate balanced by refreshing acidity and soft tannins.
Pairings: Cured meats, tagliatelle (pasta) al ragu, tortellini (filled pasta), or pizza.
Producer: Paltrinieri
PASSERINA ~ 2020
In the foothills of central Italy’s Abruzzo region is the Terre di Chieti IGT. Passerina is an indigenous varietal. Its name comes from the Italian word for sparrow “Passero”, in reference to the bird’s appetite for the ripe grapes of this variety.
Grapes: Passerina 100%, ABV 12.5% vol.
Tasting notes: Straw yellow color with aromas of citrus blossom and bright citrus fruit. On the palate, it has bright acidity and flavors of herbs and minerals with refreshing tropical and citrus, touch of honey on the finish- clean and crisp.
Pairings: Appetizers, seafood, and white meat dishes.
Producer: Altavilla
VERMENTINO BOLGHERI – DOCG ~ 2022
Appellation: Bolgheri located in the Tuscany region
Grapes: Vermentino 100%, ABV 13.5%
Aging: 4 months in cement tanks using the bâtonnage (stir) technique every 10 days moving dregs.
Tasting notes: Close to the coast, minerality and salinity is derived from sandy soil. Elegant citrus and soft floral notes.
Pairings: This is perfect for fish and seafood dishes and savory soups.
Producer: Dario Di Varia
ANTIMA ~ 2020
Appellation: Emporda DO / Catalunya, Spain
Grapes: Grenache 60%, Carignan 40%, ABV 14.5%
Aging: 9 months in French oak followed by aging in the bottle. Malolactic fermentation takes place inside the casks.
Tasting notes: Aromas of black fruit and exotic spices, balanced with aromas from the aging of the wine such as coffee beans. In the mouth, it is very concentrated and tasty. With notes of licorice and fruit, it has a long and fresh finish with an expression of roasting bestowed by the new oak.
Pairings: Red meat, roasts, and game as well as mushroom-based dishes.
Producer: Empordalia
**90 points DECANTER