When exploring the wines of Italy, the sheer variety of grapes and wine styles can be overwhelming.  Which is why it's not unusual for people to stay within their comfort zone and go to the regions that are more well known with wines that offer familiarity rather than uniqueness.  For this Friday's tasting we wanted to mix things up a bit and give our customers a sampling of some wines made by producers with an eye to regional distinction and expressiveness.

 

What we are offering is a menu of wines that you could purchase to serve for an entire 5 course meal.  Each one would be terrific with a range of dishes beginning with the Prosecco which pairs well with a light seafood appetizer or antipasto.  This could be followed by the Bianco and a light pasta dish with a Checca sauce because the crisp character of the Bianco leaves your palate clean for the next course and wine.  The rosatos made in Italy can be a revelation and this one would be superb with Veal Saltimboca.  The next wine is a Rosso blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, and Merlot and would be fab with Osso Bucco and to finish we have a slightly sweet red dessert wine that would be the perfect end to a meal if served with a creamy ricotta dessert.

 

 

Zardetto Prosecco NV Veneto
2008 Falesco Vitiano Bianco IGT Umbria

2008 Falesco Vitiano Rosato IGT Umbria
2007 Falesco Vitiano Rosso IGT Umbria
2005 Falesco Pomele Aleatico IGT Lazio