Italian Wines

Oct 312013
 
2010 Giordano Ricarico Rosso Salento IGT, Puglia, Italy, $18 (S) – Rating 90

A lovely medium- bodied blend of old vine Primitivo and Negroamaro grapes with soft tannins and mouth watering acidity. A nose of dark red fruit, blueberry and black cherry pie. On the palate, expect rich notes of black cherry, plum, zippy strawberry and brown spice. Hints of espresso on the finish. Buy This Wine

Jul 082013
 
2012 Giordano Gavi Docg, Piedmont, Italy, $12 (S) – Rating 90

Gavi is a crisp  white wine made from the Cortese grape grown in the southeast region of Piedmont. Gavi may be my wine find of the summer. A perfectly refreshing patio sipper or for pairing with lighter summer fare. Similar to CA Sauvignon Blanc (no grapefruit flavor), this beauty opens with a nose of pineapple and citrus balanced with a little pear. The palate is treated to flavors of green apple, pineapple and hint of pear with integrated minerality. Lower alcohol at 12% is a bonus. Buy This Wine

Mar 252013
 
2011 Giordano Prosecco doc, Sparkling Wine, Veneto, Italy, $15 (S) – Rating 90

This is one Prosecco that should not be relegated to a mixer or mimosa. A crisp floral nose with notes of lemon and orange peel. A near perfect level of effervescence with a soft mouth-feel yet mouthwatering acidity.  Dry flavors of citrus with hints of tangerine and lime are enhanced by notes of yeastiness. Buy This Wine

Mar 252013
 
2010 Giordano Nero d’Avola i.g.t. Sicilia Rosso, Sicily, Italy, $10 (S) – Rating 90

Nero d’Avola is the preeminent grape of Sicily and similar in style to New World Syrah/Shiraz displaying the jamminess one would expect from those wines. This Nero d’Avola is no exception with aromas of dark cherry with hints of dark chocolate and spice. A definite jamminess with moderate tannins on the palate offering flavors peppery plum, dark fruit and spicebox. Dark chocolate enhances the long finish. Buy This Wine