Explore Italy!
An important step to learning about a region or grape is to experience through the art of contrast. In other words, taste! Be it location, altitude, vintage, different grapes or production methods, the following 2-packs are an effort to tell the story of place through the glass. The wines I carry represent a real snapshot of place, and sometimes this is best understood through two lenses.
Alto-Piemonte
Pack the crampons and warm gloves, we are headed to the western European Alps! What is it about wines from alpine-influenced areas? The answer is found within a magical interplay between the warm sun, cool air temp and glacial-based soils. These conditions bring strong diurnal shifts between day and night, imbuing grapes with enchanting aromas and sultry mouthfeel. And low ABV! SEE WINE
Montefalco, Umbria
Ever tasted Sagrantino? I once has a professor describe its expression similar to an overcrowded BBQ pit, with a tire fire in the distance! I think he was evoking Sagratino's aggressive tannins and powerful aromas. When I discovered Milziade Antano, I finally moved on from that startling image. The Antano family manages to make refined wines reminiscent of quality Brunello, while retaining Sagrantino's upfront charm. I just adore these wines. SEE WINE
Val Damone, Sicilia
The Val Damone of Sicilia lies to the northeast, comprising the winemaking regions of Mount Etna and Faro. Some of Sicilia's most exciting wines are coming from the Damone, led by producers like Passopisciaro and Bonavita, where volcanic soils meet the mighty Mediterranean. SEE WINE
Beauty in Barbaresco
A selection of wines celebrating the Barbaresco sub-region of Piemonte! Ca del Baio showcases the freshness of Treiso fruit, while Cantine del Pino highlights a more refined and layered expression from Barbaresco proper. SEE WINE
Dolcetto, Old and New
Dolcetto is one of Piemonte's benchmark varietals, yet few are aware of the range this grape is capable of. Presenting two exceptional farmers of Dolcetto in the Monforte d'Alba commune of Barolo. For the 'New', Ferdinando Principiano's soulful version with its compact and layered fruit, sweet spice and vibrant finish. For the 'Old', a unicorn wine from one of Barolo's quiet forces, Flavio Roddolo. His 2017 is integrated and mature while still retaining its bright acidity. SEE WINE
Langhe, Piemonte
Few wines reach the heights of Italy's king and queen, Barolo and Barbaresco. Presenting two benchmark producers and their 'assemblage wines' that represent these winemaking capitals with class and verve: Carlo Giacosa in Barbaresco proper and the famed Oddero family in the commune of La Morra. SEE WINE