Sitting near the northern border of a truly effective geographic wine-growing area, and with its continental climate, heavy fogs, and the rain-shadow effect from the neighboring Alps, Northern Italian wines generally require a longer growing season to develop into some of the highest rated wines in the world.
We will taste:
Luigi Baudana Bianco Dragon 2020, Langhe — Luigi Baudana is one of the last garagiste estates in Langhe. With just 4 quality hectares, they are located in some of the most prestigious Barolo crus in Serralunga d'Alba. Dragon is a unique white blend. Originally produced by Baudana during the 1980s with Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, it has evolved to embrace Nascetta, the most exciting white heirloom varietal of the Langhe, as well as a small amount of Riesling. The varietals are mostly planted side by side, vinified together. A pale and bright yellow enriched by dry perfumes of stone, flowers, and summery grass. Dry and slightly savory on the palate, its stinging freshness is well balanced by a warm taste. Rating: 90, Robert Parker. $22.99/$8
Damilano Barbera d’Asti 2019, Barolo — Damilano is one of the oldest wineries in Barolo. The family business dates back to 1890 when Giuseppe Borgogno started cultivating and producing wine from the grapes from his own vineyards. Giuseppe improved the general quality of the vinification system and of the wines, turning the winery into a “jewel” of the Langhe area. Intense purple red in color, the bouquet is fruity with light spicy notes. On the palate, hints of of currant, violet, and cherry with a touch of vanilla, with a long persistent finish. Rating: 91, James Suckling. “A juicy red with lots of plum and grapey character. Chocolate, too. It’s medium-bodied with round, lightly chewy tannins. Lots of fruit and intensity.” $22.99/$8
Selvapiana Villa Petrognano Toscana 2018, Tuscany — Fattoria Selvapiana is a Tuscan wine producer situated in the area of Chianti Rufina. The estate is credited as being one of the first in Tuscany to create a riserva wine entirely based on the Sangiovese grape variety. The property was originally constructed as a watch tower to safeguard the city of Florence, and was later converted into a holiday residence for the city's elite. Production of Selvapiana's first vintage of its flagship single-vineyard Chianti Rufina Riserva Vigneto Bucerchiale wine was produced in 1979. The rare blend of Sangiovese, Cab Sav, and Merlot is a Super Tuscan. the previous vintage 2017 got 93 from Wine Spectator, this vintage hasn’t been reviewed but is every bit as good. $24.99/$9
As always, feel free to bring snacks/dinner with you, but please dispose of your own trash (there is a trash can at the back entrance). St. Lucio’s Gourmet and Cheese is open inside the store for your cheese needs.
See y’all Friday!