Hi, Feastlings.
This month we’ll be getting a visit from Lisa d’Adamo of Folio Wine Group. Every now and again we try to remind our guests that the overwhelming world of wines from abroad is a lot more navigable when you learn that there are importers out there whose wines you trust. So if you’re not familiar with that particular Priorat, if you turn the bottle around and see that it’s imported by Folio, it’s most likely a safe bet. Lisa’s got six wines from across the Mediterranean- some French, some Spanish and some Italian wine- for you to investigate this Sunday. The tasting is at 3:30 pm, it’s a mere $30 plus tax and tip, and it comes with food pairings prepared specifically for each wine. It’s a great activity for those of you who still have family and friends in town, but because so many of you have family and friends in town, we wholeheartedly recommend a reservation. Reservations must be made the old-fashioned way, by phone, since web and email reservations won’t guarantee a seat at the tasting. The number to call is 326-9363.
Give us a buzz, taste some fun wines, and have a much smaller bite than you’ll have had on Thursday. Yum.
Trust your importer- Folio Fine Wine Partners
2014 André Brunel “La Becassonne” Blanc, Côtes du Rhone $19.00
The cuvée is characterized by hints of wild flowers and exotic fruits. The 2015 vintage is less hot, and more balanced than in previous years. With no over-mature grapes the wine retains the acidity and freshness necessary to enjoy its very aromatic and rich flavors for many years to come.
2012 Palacios Remondo “Placet” Viura, Rioja SP $32.00
The only white wine made by famed Spanish winemaker Alvaro Palacios at his family’s Rioja property, Plácet Valtomelloso is anestate-grown wine made in very limited quantities from the indigenous Spanish grape variety, Viura. Plácet, meaning “consent,” is light-gold in color and contains enticing aromas of white pears, sweet spice and ‘roble cremoso,’ or creamy oak. Full-bodied and well-balanced, with just the right amount of acidity, Palacios Remondo’s 2012 Plácet has hints of lemon-meringue pie, freshly cut golden apples and white peaches on the palate. An outstanding wine, with an endless finish, it is enjoyable both when served alone or with any kind of food.
2013 André Brunel “Les Cailloux” Châteuneuf du Pape $51.00
Bouquet: dominant aromas of red fruits enhanced by a woody touch from the barrel-contained Syrah grapes. A great taste of red fruits, leather and undergrowth. The tannins are harmonious and elegant. Long finish in the mouth allowing for even more complex aromas of undergrowth, leather … the wine allies strength and elegance, complexity of secondary aromas while keeping a fruity freshness.
2014 Bruno Giacosa Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC $33.00
Tobacco and mushroom notes lend an earthy tone to this wine’s fresh red berry flavors. It feels vibrant and ripe, with hints of menthol, coriander and sweet spice that add dimension. Its ripe fruit and mild tannins make it a versatile partner for poultry or pasta.
2014 Tinto Pesquera Crianza, Ribera del Duero SP $30.00
Very bright, ripe and nicely captured ripeness, this has dark cherry and plum as well as a stony edge and some raw earthiness. The palate has energetic appeal, harmonious fruit and oak, and a dark berry and chocolate finish. Drink now.
2013 Vall Llach “Embruix” Priorat SP $26.00
Sourced from estate vines primarily 15- to 25-years-old, Vall Llach’s Embruix (pronounced Embroosh), means “bewitching” in Catalan and the name, along with the symbol of a full moon on the wine’s label, is testament to the winery’s interest in biodynamic winemaking. Dark cherry red in color with a garnet rim, this wine contains alluring aromas of ripe plums, freshly ground black pepper and clove. Intense and naturally concentrated for an entry-level wine, the 2014 Embruix de Vall Llach is lush and round on the mid-palate with notes of chocolate-covered cherries and soft black licorice on the finish.