Tiefenbrunner Pinot Grigio 2018 — 150-year-old winery in the Alto Adige of South Tyrol, Italy. This wine is pale yellow to sandy in color and subtle in its bouquet, with fruity notes of pears and candied fruits. The eloquent, harmonious body emphasizes its dry, full-bodied taste and round finish. $9.99*

Castellare Chianti Classico 2018 — The Castellare winery is located in Tuscany’s Castellina in Chianti. It has become a virtual refuge for wildlife, including many of the birds pictured on their labels. This iconic producer gets great press. The Chianti s a bright ruby red that shows well-integrated aromas of tart red cherries, tobacco, sun-baked earth, and a hint of cedar spice. On the palate, firm structure and refreshing acidity make it a very versatile food wine. A little richer than the Coltibuono Chianti we tasted a few weeks ago. $15.99*

Zenato Amarone 2015 — The estate is based in a territory that surrounds Lake Garda, with an extraordinary microclimate that allows for an optimal growing season. Zenato crafts wines that are known for their quality and consistency. We tasted the Zenato Lugana San Bernadino and Alanera Rosso Veronese back in early April and they were both delicious and well-received. Ruby red in color, this Amarone offers intoxicating aromas of dried black cherries, cassis, truffles, and chocolate fudge. On the palate, it is silky, luscious, and complex, with a lingering finish. $33.99* (Sticker shock? Why is Amarone so expensive? The production of Amarone is very different from most wines. Let’s find out why!)

We will be rejoined by Zak Kilson, who brought us Zenato back in early April. Zak is the Mid-Atlantic Territory Manager for LLS, one of the industry’s leading Italian wine Importers. He has his sommelier certification and has worked on multiple sides of the business from fine dining in New York to working harvests in Oregon. He also owned a successful wine consulting firm that focused on wine education.

*all bottles are 375ml, or splits (half bottles)

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VWTs via Zoom; we will send the link (no account necessary).

Feel free to have snacks or dinner while we are tasting!

We will have another VWT on June 26 and will be trying FOUR more wines (see event for details). We are continuing to offer 20% off if all wines for both VWTs are purchased. Phone orders and curbside pickup still available, 828.438.8400, or feel free to come in and shop.