Round 1: January 11, 2013
Verdicchio - Colle Stefano - 2010
Verdicchio di Matelica is the lesser known of the two Verdicchio DOCGs located in central Italy's Marches region. Unlike its neighbor Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi, which is located close to the Adriatic Sea, this area is landlocked. It is also unique as its valley runs from east to west, rather than from north to south as it does in the rest of the Marches.
This 100% Verdicchio is Organic. Nice, floral briny nose makes it clear upfront this one is meant to serve with seafood. Mineral driven on a full palate with crisp green apple flavors, tangy lemon notes and firm acidity. Rich throughout leading to a lasting spicy finish. This one is vibrant, clean and refreshing.
$13.50/bottle
Aglianico - Gricos - 2009
Aglianico del Vulture is an Italian wine DOC in northern Basilicata, in the deep south of Italy. Initially created in 1971 as a DOC, in August 2010 its
superiore
variant was promoted to full DOCG status, the highest-quality level in the Italian wine labeling system. This was particularly well received by Basilicata's wine community, as after its creation Aglianico del Vulture spent 32 lonely years as the region's only DOC, until being joined by Terre dell'Alta Val d'Agri in 2003.
This 100% Aglianico is Organic. Volcanic, juicy, chewy, deeply purple, and intense, this wine took us by surprise. Typical volcanic flavors of the rocky wines of Italy's deep south with notes of aged leather and dried fruit with a fantastic, long finish. 50% barrel aged, there is some oak, but nothing overwhelming. Nicely balanced.
$13.50/bottle
Barbera D'Asti - Tasmorcan - 2011
Barbera d’Asti is one of the most famous wine areas in Italy's north-western Piedmont region. It became a DOC in 1970 and was upgraded to its DOCG classification in 2008, adding to Piedmont's already impressive standing at this highest level of Italian wine classification. The Barbera d'Asti title covers the area around the town of Asti, and exclusively focuses on red wines made from Barbera. Softer and more approachable in its youth than the Nebbiolo used to make Piedmont's most prestigious
wines, Barbera is a firm favorite among winemakers and consumers.
The name "Tasmorcan" comes from the name of a badger with the face or snout of a dog in the Piemontese dialect. Tas = Tasso (Badger), Mor = Muso o faccia (Muzzle or face), Can = Cane (dog)
This wine is Organic. This wine will be on TOAST's list very soon - grab some now before anyone else. This was Chef Boice's favorite of the day. Fresh, vibrantly fruit, very modern and slightly spicy.
$15/bottle
Field Blend (Kajanero) - Vestini Campagnano - 2010
Vestini Campagnano, situated in the hills of Caiazzo, only produces wine from indigenous Italian grapes. Many of their are created with the Pallagrello and Casavecchia grapes - two ancient varietals that almost became extinct.
Composed of Pallagrello Nero, Casavecchia, Pizzutella and Aglianico, this rich, expressive red displays bold notes of cherry, black currant, juniper and spice on both the nose and palate. Well-balanced with full tannins and lively acidity, Kajanero will pair well with beef, game, hearty pasta dishes and rich cheeses.
$16/bottle
Nerello Mascalese- Vestini Campagnano - 2010
Sicily (Sicilia to its Italian-speaking population) is an autonomous region of Italy, and the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. At its widest point, between Messina and Marsala, the island measures 175 miles (280km) east to west, and about one third that distance north to south. Its roughly triangular shape led the island to be dubbed Trinacria (the triangle) during the Middle Ages, and is reflected in the triskelion (a motif with three protrusions) at the center of the regional flag.
Located in the rustic hills of western Sicily, the Di Giovanna estate farms all of their vineyards under strict organic guidelines, and all of the wines are certified by Suolo e Salute. Internationally reowned enologist Riccardo Cotarella assists both in the vineyards and in the cellar.
Nerello Mascalese is a darkly colored, spicy, aromatic grape indigenous to Sicily. Full of ripe, penetrating dark fruit, the 2007 Di Giovanna Nerello Mascalese is an easy sipping red, pure in flavor and joyful in the glass. A touch of pepper and chocolate persist into the finish, with well tempered tannins and generous southern Italian personality. Perfect for casual get togethers, picnics, barbecues as well as adventurous food pairings. This wine is organic.
$13.50/bottle
Barolo- Casa Fondata - 2008
Let's just say that this wine was, hands down, the favorite of the day. It is very rare and a steal at $40/bottle. It is everything you want your Barolo to be and more. Take our word for it.
$40/bottle
Orders must be submitted by Monday January 14.
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