1. Cascina Preziosa Spanna Coste della Sesia (shown below!)
A classic, rustic red from one of the finest wine regions in the world! Cascina Preziosa, translating to "Precious Farmhouse," is a historic winery nestled in the Coste della Sesia region of Piedmont, Italy. With roots tracing back to the Napoleonic era, this esteemed estate has long been a significant player in Alto Piemonte's wine production. The 2020 Spanna Coste della Sesia is a captivating red wine, composed of 85% Nebbiolo and 15% Barbera. This blend beautifully captures the essence of the region, known for its ancient marine sand soils that impart a unique minerality to the wine. Aged for 12 months in large, medium-toast oak barrels, followed by an additional 6 months in the bottle, this wine showcases a harmonious balance of rich, complex flavors and structured tannins. On the nose, it offers enticing aromas of fresh red and black fruits, wild berry preserves, and subtle notes of licorice and violet. The palate is equally impressive, featuring a balsamic, mineral backbone with hints of forest floor and eucalyptus, making it a delightful and intriguing wine to savor. Cascina Preziosa's dedication to traditional winemaking methods and their commitment to quality shine through in every sip of this remarkable wine!
This sophisticated red wine pairs exceptionally well with so many dishes, thanks to its rich, complex flavors and balanced structure! A hearty osso buco or slow-braised beef stew will beautifully complement the wine's robust character and structured tannins. For pasta lovers, a dish of pappardelle with wild mushroom ragu or a traditional lasagna with rich, meaty layers will enhance the wine's earthy and balsamic notes. Cheese lovers will find that aged cheeses such as Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino bring out the wine's subtle flavors of licorice and violet. Chicken or turkey seasoned with herbs and served with a side of root vegetables, will harmonize with the wine's mineral backbone and hints of forest floor. Whether you’re indulging in a formal dinner or a cozy meal at home, the Spanna Coste della Sesia is sure to take your night to the next level. Salute!
- Producer: Cascina Preziosa
- Region: Coste Della Sesia Rosso DOC, Italy
- Varieties: Nebbiolo, Barbera
- Alcohol: 13.5%
2. Ugabe Txakoli Skin Contact (shown below!)
It's Txakoli season!!!! HELL YES. Txakoli is a distinctive wine from the Basque Country in northern Spain. Ugabe focuses on natural and traditional winemaking methods, ensuring that their wines reflect the unique terroir and heritage of the region. Ugabe's Txakoli with skin contact, known as "Balea," is an unfiltered white wine that drinks and feels like a skin-contact or orange wine. This unique wine opens with aromas of fresh green apples, lemon zest, yeast, and a salty, mineral core. On the palate, it presents a slightly fuller body than classic white Txakoli, maintaining its bright and fresh characteristics. It's made from a blend of Hondarribi Zuri and Hondarribi Beltza grapes, emphasizing a natural and organic approach to viticulture and winemaking. You'll experience notes of green apple, citrus, and a touch of salinity, which are hallmark characteristics of wines from this coastal region. The skin contact process adds a layer of complexity and depth, making it a versatile wine that can be enjoyed as an aperitif or paired with various dishes. Serve chilled and pair this Txakoli with a range of seafood dishes such as oysters, grilled fish, and shrimp, where the wine's acidity and freshness enhance the flavors of the sea. It also works well with light salads, tapas, and even lightly spiced Asian cuisine, providing a refreshing contrast to the spices. Cheers!
- Producer: Ugabe
- Region: Getariako Txakolina (DO), Basque Country, Spain
- Varieties: Hondarribi Zuri, Hondarribi Beltza
- Alcohol: 12.5%
3. Domaine de la Cure Gaby White Wine (shown below!)
We love a clean, mineral-driven Chardonnay! Domaine de la Cure, located in Beaujolais, France, is run by Fabrice Le Glatin, a former wine journalist turned winemaker. The estate focuses on natural winemaking practices, producing wines without added sulfur and using organic and biodynamic methods. Fabrice's dedication to low-intervention winemaking echoes the principles of renowned natural wine pioneer Jules Chauvet.
"Gaby" is 100% Chardonnay and is a standout white wine! Fresh and light-bodied with vibrant floral and fruity notes, it is a delightful and approachable wine. Pair this wine with seafood dishes such as grilled shrimp or scallops, where the wine's acidity enhances the sweetness of the seafood. Light poultry dishes, like lemon and herb roasted chicken or a classic turkey, also make excellent pairings, allowing the wine's subtle complexity to shine through! Vegetarian options such as a creamy mushroom risotto or a fresh spring vegetable salad with a citrus vinaigrette highlight the Chardonnay's crispness. Additionally, soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert, with their creamy textures and mild flavors, beautifully complement the wine’s aromatic profile. These pairings make Gaby a versatile choice for so many food adventures. Enjoy!
- Producer: Domaine de la Cure Gamine
- Region: Beaujolais, France
- Varieties: 100% Chardonnay
- Alcohol: 12.5%
4. Ercole Pet Nat Rosé (shown below!)
We're obsessed with all things sparkling rosé this summer. It's dopamine wine! Ercole Winery, nestled in the rolling hills of Monferrato in the Piedmont region of Italy, is a beacon of quality and tradition in winemaking! We truly love everything they make. The beautiful winery is dedicated to producing wines that reflect the rich viticultural heritage of Monferrato, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its diverse landscapes and ideal grape-growing climate. Ercole Winery combines sustainable farming practices with both traditional and modern techniques, ensuring that each bottle captures the unique flavors and aromas of the region's varietals, including Barbera, Grignolino, and Cortese. Visitors to the winery are welcomed into a warm, inviting atmosphere where they can savor a range of exquisite wines while learning about the meticulous winemaking process and the storied history of the area. Deeply embedded in the local community, Ercole Winery not only champions environmental stewardship but also celebrates the cultural legacy of Monferrato, making it a must-visit destination for any wine enthusiast.
Ercole is a collective effort led by a cooperative of local grape growers who are passionate about sustainable viticulture and traditional winemaking. This collaboration is supported by The Piedmont Guy, a U.S.-based importer focused on promoting the wines of the Piedmont region. The cooperative primarily works with old vines, some as old as 50 years, adhering to sustainable farming practices such as lotta integrata, which emphasizes minimal chemical use and organic methods. The wines are certified vegan, ensuring a natural and authentic product! Thank you, The Piedmont Guy!
This rosé pét nat is a sparkling beauty that will be the biggest hit at all your summertime gatherings. Lively and refreshing with notes of strawberry, raspberry along with a hint of fresh clove. Light-bodied and extremely food friendly. Rely on this darling wine to please every palate at the party! Serve chilled, cork with a quality sparkling wine stopper after opening and enjoy within 3 days (of opening). Cheers!
- Producer: Ercole
- Region: Monferrato DOC, Italy
- Varieties: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay
- Alcohol: 12.5%