Suitor With Soul
𝔸 𝕓𝕖𝕒𝕦𝕥𝕪 𝕚𝕤 𝕒 𝕨𝕠𝕞𝕒𝕟 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕟𝕠𝕥𝕚𝕔𝕖, 𝕒 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕣𝕞𝕖𝕣 𝕚𝕤 𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕨𝕙𝕠 𝕟𝕠𝕥𝕚𝕔𝕖𝕤 𝕪𝕠𝕦 – 𝕆𝕤𝕔𝕒𝕣 𝕎𝕚𝕝𝕕𝕖 Another enchanting artisanal red blend created by #garagiste #winemaker Vaila From and her #allwomen team. Her creativity and her sense of adventure are evident throughout. A unique Central Coast blend of 66% Merlot, 18% Cabernet Franc AND 16% Petite Sirah. Yes you read correctly, what a blend!! Fermented with native yeast and aged in 66% new and 34% neutral French oak for 18 months. 𝔻𝕖𝕤𝕡𝕒𝕣𝕒𝕕𝕒 𝕊𝕦𝕚𝕥𝕠𝕣 ℝ𝕖𝕕 𝔹𝕝𝕖𝕟𝕕 𝟚𝟘𝟚𝟙 ▪️She beguiles you with her charm instantly, as you pour the color is a deep, dark ruby hue with mesmerizing purple haze. ▪️The swirl warms yours heart, your soul with the romance of the sun kissed aromas of red plum, black raspberry, blackberry and cassis. Chocolate mint, bramble and smoke enter the scene followed with a potpourri of lilacs, mocha, graphite, earthiness. Sweet sensations continue on the palate…. ▪️The first sip warms your wine soul with a burst of juicy red plum, cherry and dark fruit, mirroring the aromas with a herbal backdrop. The bright acidity cuts through the richness of the fruit, balancing the sweetness intertwined lovingly with the plush tannins with a grip to their seductive edges. The finish is persistent, with lingering notes of licorice, mocha, earthiness and mint lingering on the tongue. Showstopper to this incredibly balanced wine weighing in at 15.8% abv – I did an actual double take, that HAS to be a mistake?!? No my friends, that’s is how talented and thoughtful Vaila is. Mic drop 💥 Bold, expressive, a renegade of love – this is your suitor with steal your heart days. Paired with a sunny Sunday afternoon while grilling a rosemary leg of lamb. Sausages and lentils or mushroom ragu would be delicious. Vaila’s tasting notes: Nat King Cole playing in the background, making paint with blackberry juice, raspberry rainshower, backdrop herbs, $14,000 couch, scarlet letters after dark, velvet yo-yo
Tulips Among Giardino Rosato Frizzante
Springtime tulips blooming with Giardino Rosato Frizzante Cantina Giardino Vino Rosato Frizzante 2022 Cantina Giardino specializes in natural wines made from local varieties with minimal intervention in Campania, Italy. A delicious rosato frizzante made from a blend of Aglianico, Primitivo, Piedirosso and Coda di Volpe. Pours into the glass a solid ruby color a delicate stream of bubbles. The nose is fresh and inviting with colorful aromas of strawberries, raspberries, cranberries and watermelon with hints of blood orange, rose water, rhubarb and minerals. A smacker of a tangy delight with the finest bubbles and boisterous acidity. The flavors of red fruits and citrus are carried through from the nose, with a lingering finish of rose petals, tart rhubarb, minerals and bread dough. Fun is synonymous with this frizzante. Its refreshing and easy-drinking sparkling rosé. An excellent match for charcuterie board of Parma ham, sopressata and mortadella #charcuterie
Ojas Vino Nobile di Montepulciano
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is a well-respected DOCG red wine from southern Tuscany, Italy. Nestled between Montalcino and Umbria, this region boasts stunning hilltop scenery and a rich history dating back to the Renaissance. Its proximity to Florence attracted artists and poets, earning it the nickname “the pearl of the Renaissance.” The name Vino Nobile itself translates to “noble wine,” a playful title bestowed by the royal court, hinting at its esteemed status. While the name might cause confusion, Vino Nobile is made primarily from Sangiovese grapes, known locally as Prugnolo Gentile. This grape is distinct from the Montepulciano grape used in wines from Abruzzo, a different region in central Italy. Key characteristics of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano: DOCG status: This guarantees the wine’s quality and origin. Sangiovese grapes: The backbone of the wine, known as Prugnolo Gentile in this region. Unique soil: A blend of clay (contributing to a fuller body) and sand (enhancing aromatics). Grape composition: Minimum 70% Sangiovese, with room for indigenous grapes (Canaiolo Nero, Mammolo) and international varieties (Cabernet Sauvignon, Franc, Merlot) up to 30%. Aging requirements: Minimum two years from harvest, including 12-24 months in wood (depending on bottle aging). Riserva: Requires three years of aging, with no additional oak requirement. Rosso di Montepulciano DOC: A separate category for lighter, more affordable wines meant for earlier enjoyment. Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG Riserva “Ojas” 2015 Follow your passion and it’ll all work out just fine. That’s what Sudha and Puru Manvi did. They left familiar behind and faced the challenging world of wine head on. Certified organic, solar powered, spontaneous fermentation are just a few elements that they do. The wine is lovingly named after the Sanskrit word for “life force” Made from 100% Sangiovese with a small production of 4000 bottles/year. Grown in a mix of clay and sand at an elevation of 350-430 m a.s.l. The whole bunches are pressed and destemmed, followed by skin contact for a minimum of 6 week. Ambient yeast allows for spontaneous fermentation in stainless steel tanks followed by ageing in French barriques for a minimum of 30 months. Pours into the glass a brilliant garnet rust colour with a bright core. Say buongiorno to the complex fruity spicy duo, particularly prune and dried fig, sour cherry, raspberry, clay pot and dried flowers with a delicate touch of vanilla, tobacco leaf, dried marjoram and balsamic. First sip reveals Sangiovese’s calling card – its signature vibrant acidity The first sip is a continuum of a full-bodied wine with firm tannins, characteristic of Sangiovese. The flavors that mirror the aromas of red fruit, leather, balsamic reduction, tobacco, into candied blood orange and dried marjoram. The lingering elegant finish ends on black pepper, sweet clove, mocha and sun-dried tomatoes. Pair with eggplant parmigiana, a hearty lamb rosemary stew, Pumpkin sausage sage pasta, Pepper crusted grilled flank steak
The Often Misunderstood Bubbly – Prosecco
The often misunderstood bubbly – Prosecco Prosecco is Italy’s most popular sparkling wine. Prosecco DOC is a region known for its approachable, fun and fruity sparkling wine. Unfortunately over the last number of years Prosecco has gotten a bad rap for its high volume…not all Prosecco is the same. Made from glera grape in the tank method, they are meant to be drunk young. There are however different quality standards, ageing requirements and regional denominations which ensures the quality of the wine. Valdobbiadene Superiore DiuCartizze DOCG is at the top of the pyramid when it comes to a Prosecco. A hilltop area in Valdobbiadene characterized by its rocky terrain that winds along the crest of the steep hillside. The sunlight exposure and continuous ventilation creates a unique microclimate. These benefits enable Glera ripens at a slower rate and, consequently, enjoys a richer, more harmonious acidity. The DOCG is 260 acres owned by 140 growers. Bisol ‘Cartizze’ Brut Prosecco Superiore di Cartizze DOCG 2021 Since 1542, the Bisol Family has been sustainably farming the hills of Valdobbiadene. The family puts vintages on all of their Prosecco’s produced, tying the wine to the terroir. produces terroir driven wines with Estate Grown fruit hand-harvested from steep exposures and complex soils They are considered a grower Prosecco producer with complete control from grape to glass. Bisol’s flagship holding are comprised of 7 acres and it is considered to be of the highest quality, or even the “Grand Cru” of Prosecco. Made from 100% Glera grown at 300 meters …. Pours into the glass a pale straw yellow color in the glass with a fine soft beading. Expressive aromas of yellow apple, lemon, white peach and honeydew melon alongside floral darlings chamomile, yellow lily, wild herbs, lager & flint. The first sip is so satisfying – the fruit, the bubbles, the refreshing appeal are all harmonious and alive. The touch of sweetness accentuates the silky smooth bubbles. The lively acidity that cuts through the creamy mouthfeel. Sun kissed fruit flavors of peach, pear, apple accompany the candied lime, peach, pastry cream, wild thyme progress into a fine mineral finish. A well-crafted sparkling wine that highlights the quality of Cartizze Prosecco because it’s not just about sweetness but complexity. Pair with vegetable samosas and a zucchini ricotta basil salad.
The Sainte Of Champagne Chartogne-Taillet
I bring the Champagne, she brings the Cheese = the best pairing🥂 Alexandre Chartogne is superstar grower champagne known for his innovative approach to winemaking, emphasizing quality grapes and neutral oak aging. Located in Merfy, Montagne de Reims, the family prides themselves on letting nature guide them in their passion of parcel cuvées. Sainte Anne is their flagship cuvée, 2020 base of 50% Chardonnay and 50% of both Pinot Noir and Meunier. ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕞𝕡𝕒𝕘𝕟𝕖 ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕣𝕥𝕠𝕘𝕟𝕖-𝕋𝕒𝕚𝕝𝕝𝕖𝕥 ℂ𝕦𝕧é𝕖 𝕊𝕒𝕚𝕟𝕥𝕖 𝔸𝕟𝕟𝕖 𝔹𝕣𝕦𝕥 Brimming with sparkling delight of pale gold color hints of green flecks green delicate bubbles rising to the surface in a tight mousse. The initial aromas are cheery and bright on citrus, choke cherries, kirsch, alongside pear and red apple. The chalk and flint notes are the backbone of the structure. As the wine opens up, hints of dried rose petals, vanilla, toasted brioche, smoke emerge as the lively bubbles rise to the surface. First sip is round, refreshing and lovely. The texture is creamy with a crisp acidity and the ever present energetic bubbles. Intriguing flavors of tart cherry blossom, pastry cream, toasted bricohe. The flavors mirror the beautiful aromas with the fruit taking center stage alongside a honeyed character. The cherry blossom and toasted almond skin, cherry pit and evolve into a lengthy salted hazelnut finish. The finish has a pleasant zing and brings a happy smile with every sip. Mimmolett, Piave vecchio, Truffled Brie, River Edge Up in Smoke fresh goat cheese (Pasteurized cultured goats milk, at, rennet, smoked over maple, rapped in smoked maple leaves). Paired with a relaxing evening with my dear friend and cheeses from her shop Cheese Shop Centerbrook in Essex, CT.
Shinning Blanc De Blancs From Dutcher Crossing
𝕎𝕖 𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕒𝕝𝕝 𝕠𝕗 𝕦𝕤 𝕤𝕥𝕒𝕣𝕤, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕨𝕖 𝕕𝕖𝕤𝕖𝕣𝕧𝕖 𝕥𝕠 𝕥𝕨𝕚𝕟𝕜𝕝𝕖 – 𝕄𝕒𝕣𝕚𝕝𝕪𝕟 𝕄𝕠𝕟𝕣𝕠𝕖 Twinkling in to #winewednesday with this #womeninwine sparkling non-vintage Blanc de Blancs made from @dutchercrossing estate grown Chardonnay in Dry Creek Valley. This is a non-vintage sparkling wine incorporating wines made in both 2019 and 2020. 75% Barrel fermented with 50% ambient yeast. Aged on the lees for 20 months and disgorged in August 2022. 𝔻𝕦𝕥𝕔𝕙𝕖𝕣 ℂ𝕣𝕠𝕤𝕤𝕚𝕟𝕘 ℙ𝕠𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕪 ℝ𝕖𝕤𝕖𝕣𝕧𝕖 𝔹𝕝𝕒𝕟𝕔 𝔻𝕖 𝔹𝕝𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕤 𝔹𝕣𝕦𝕥 Pours into the glass a light golden yellow hue, with bouncy tiny bubbles rising to the surface in a tight, elegant mousse. The initial aromas are captivating, offering the classic Blanc de Blancs enticement of crisp yellow apple, pineapple, pear, citrus intertwined with brioche, honey, toasted almond, dusty chalk and seashells with a perfume of honeysuckle blossom whispering in the background. The first sip lifts itself up with a refreshing acidity that lifts every single flavor to explode and dance across the palate. The creamy mousse caresses the tongue, giving way to a burst of flavors that mirror the enticing aromas. From nose to palate it translates beautifully – just ripe pineapple, guava, yellow apple butter, lemon curd, pastry cream, into a buttery caramel, hazelnut brittle complemented by the refreshing minerality. Elegant and full of classic #blancdeblancs style with a Sonoma twist. You’ll want another sip before you finish the first, I assure you. Get your seafood platter ready & bring it on with this lovely #brut #traditionalmethod sparkling. #womenknowwine #sonomacounty #sonomawine #foodwinewomen #winepairing #winepassion #winewriter #winetasting #winenot #winenotes
St. Patrick’s Day Perfection With Presqu’ile
Ah, Presqu’ile Gamay! Prepare for a vibrant and joyful experience. As you swirl this wine in your glass, you’re immediately greeted by a captivating ruby hue, hinting at the bright fruit to come. The aromas leap out with an energetic charm – think freshly crushed raspberries and juicy cranberries, underscored by a delicate floral lift reminiscent of violets. There’s a subtle earthy undertone, like a whisper of forest floor after a light rain, adding a touch of intrigue. On the palate, this Gamay is an absolute delight. It’s light-bodied yet bursting with flavor. Those red berry notes from the nose translate beautifully, joined by a refreshing zip of acidity that makes it incredibly lively and food-friendly. There’s a playful hint of spice, perhaps a touch of white pepper, that dances on the tongue. The tannins are soft and supple, providing just enough structure without ever feeling heavy. What makes this Presqu’ile Gamay so engaging is its sheer drinkability and its expression of pure, unadulterated fruit. It’s a wine that makes you want to take another sip, and then another. It’s sunshine in a glass, perfect for a casual gathering or paired with lighter fare. This isn’t a wine to overthink; it’s one to simply enjoy for its vibrant character and joyful spirit. A truly charming and expressive Gamay. Perfect zingy profile to bring a St. Patrick’s Day corned beef fest to life.
A Gem Of A Blanc
Ashes & Diamonds Winery is a Napa Valley winery focused on celebrating the region’s pioneering spirit of the 1960s which bridging the gap with modern sensibilities. They believe in minimal intervention winemaking techniques and letting the character of the grapes shine through, similar to the era’s pioneering winemakers. Their wines are primarily crafted from classic Bordeaux varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sauvignon Blanc, but with a Burgundian-inspired focus on lightness and showcasing the vineyard’s unique character. Owner Kashy Khaledi works with innovative winemakers Steve Matthiasson and Diana Snowden Seysses to create their wines. The grapes for this white are a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon sourced from three vineyards in Oak Knoll and Yountville AVAs. Aged sur lie for 10 months in Boutes & Ermitage French oak (30% new), made by Steve Matthiasson Ashes & Diamonds BLANC, Nº5 2019 Pours into the glass a glistening pale yellow with slight green hues. First swirl reveals an aromatic and inviting character, with pronounced notes of citrus, gooseberry, beeswax, kiwi, white peach, apricot intermingled with boxwood, honeysuckle and a touch of flinty minerality. A delightful textured white with incredibly refreshing acidity that balances out the bright flavors. Expect zesty grapefruit, lime, ripe white peach, fig, kiwi, pineapple and a hint of honey. The best of both worlds are harmonized expertly between Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon personalities. The barrel fermentation and aging sur lie likely add a touch of richness and texture to the wine, but it still maintains its crispness. Clean with a lingering hum of ginger, brioche, almond and saline. Paired with grilled shrimp and avocado salad.
A Bear of a Champagne from Famille Moussé
..And the Bear Said, Look on the bright side, there’s always Champagne 🥂 and the following are printed on the back of his labels, the mantra this talented winemaker whom I had the pleasure to spend a day with in December (read more on Cédric Moussé. COMPOST PLOUGHING COVER CROP PEDOLOGY & GREEN CLAY LIMESTONE MARL PLANTS COMMON SENSE OBSERVATION WINE WE LET NATURE TAKE ITS COURSE PHILOSOPHY EVERY SMALL DETAIL MATTERS. Champagne Famille Moussé Eugène – Longue Garde This Blanc de Noirs ( blend of 80% Meunier and 20% Pinot Noir) grown in green clay over limestone marl in Cuisles, Jonquery and Châtillon-sur-Marne. As the name implies, it has had extended aging with a complex blending process. The Solera method is used to make this Cuvée with perpetual reserve ranging from 2003 to 2017 with 50% of the last harvest added each year to refresh the vin de réserve. Disgorged 02/06/2023 (I love how exact the information is from Cédric). Sur lie for over 60 months with a total SO2 of 29 mg/l (which is very little). Malolactic fermentation and zero dosage for this pretty superb and delicately fruity Champagne. Notice the paper (not the traditional aluminum) capsule – one of his many environmentally conscious practices. Pours into the glass excitedly – the lively tiny bubbles and the burnished gold color. Ample bouquet shows its pretty Meunier self – purity of fruit, cherry blossom, subtle herbal tones and the clear terroir transparent shines through with Cedric’s careful attention. First sip reveals an open knit greeting of spiced pear tart, honeyed peaches, white cherries, dried white blossom, leading into burnt toffee, cherry wood smoke, brioche, mushrooms and toasted almonds. The finish is very supple and lingering on the terroir’s minerality. There’s such precision here. Cedric’s organic farming and care creates wines that are precise, savory, and brightly-fruited. His signature purity of terroir resonates throughout. Painting by my daughter Megan – Happy Bear In The Snow
Spring Sensation From Christine Nadalié
Spring sensation from a Cru Bourgeois gem winemaker, Christine Nadalié. ᴄʟᴏꜱ ʟᴀ ʙᴏʜÈᴍᴇ ᴄʀᴜ ʙᴏᴜʀɢᴇᴏɪꜱ 2015 She’s not your typical oenologist – she has the “secret of the wood” in her blood, she comes from over 5 generations of coopers Nadalié Tonnellerie (aka wine barrel artisans) she is just as passionate about winemaking as she is about the barrels. Certified organic, sustainable farming, all the good stuff we love to hear when it comes to artisanal wine. The 8 hectare estate is in Ludon-Médoc, near Margaux (this is an important point). Margaux is a highly prized region of Bordeaux and her estate is a stones throw from the southeastern border of the region. The soils, climate, aspect etc will all be the same – do I smell an incredible gem? Absolutely! The estate runs along the Garonne in Macau-en-Médo. The vines are planted in the the regional (and happy place for Cabernet Sauvignon) thick gravel soils of Haut Medoc. This particular cuvée is from Clos la Bohème, a ‘Cru Bourgeois Haut-Médoc’ which demonstrates the quality offered by Médoc’s second tier. A blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot from vines with an average age of 38 years. Her Clos is the smallest in the region and is highly expressive. Traditional vinification both wood and concrete vats for four weeks followed by aeging in barrels and casks made in the family French oak barrels for 20 months. Pours into the glass a hypnotizing ruby gem of a wine. As you pour the aromas grab your attention with ripe black fruits and savory earthiness. As you swirl the bouquet leads to just as ripe red fruits, eucalyptus, cedar, bramble, cigar box and mint. The first sip is the showstopper – this is where you discover how well integrated every element of the wine is. Christine’s marriage of the best characteristics of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are harmonious. The ample fruit found on the nose – blackberry, blackcurrant, black and red cherry, red plum, lead the way. A potpourri of spice and delight follow with mint, licorice, black pepper is a caressing way. The tannins are fine grained and well defined, her precise use of oak is a stunning presentation. The freshness meets fluidity of self. This Bordeaux should always be on hand – an elegant beauty with a lovely concentration. Pair with a chargrilled steak, portobello mushroom cheddar burgers or lamb chops with cherry compote. Check out our live discussion: Clos La Boheme Live