Collector’s Club–May 2024

Zoli Inzolia by Caruso & Minini

From the sun-drenched hills of Sicily, the Zoli Inzolia by Caruso & Minini is a symphony of Mediterranean flavors. This wine, with its delicate straw yellow hue and golden reflections, is a tribute to the meticulous attention to detail during its production. The winery, with a history that whispers tales of the late 1800s, is renowned for its dedication to indigenous varietals and the Inzolia grape. On the nose, it greets you with a fragrant bouquet of just-zested lemon, white peach, and green apple, followed by a chorus of fresh herbs. The palate is a dance of intense citrus and herbaceous notes, culminating in a finish that echoes with salted almonds. It’s a wine that pairs exquisitely with the simplicity of a Sicilian “paranza,” the elegance of fish carpaccio, or the comfort of mushroom pasta. Each sip is a celebration of Sicily’s rich viticultural heritage, a lively wine that stands out for its freshness and pleasant notes, perfect for toasting life’s grand moments and everyday pleasures alike.

Corte Medicea Aros Toscana Rosso

The Corte Medicea Aros Toscana Rosso, a luscious red from the rolling hills of Tuscany, is a testament to the winery’s commitment to quality and tradition. Produced by Bollina, this wine is a harmonious blend of 50% Sangiovese and 50% Cabernet, embodying the essence of the region. It pours a deep ruby color, with a bouquet that sings of earthy spices and dark fruits, hinting at blackberries and plums. On the palate, it reveals a medium body with a touch of sweetness and good acidity, creating a well-balanced sip. This wine is versatile in its pairings, complementing traditional Tuscan dishes, fresh cheeses, grilled chicken, and even pizzas. It’s a wine that invites you to savor the richness of Tuscany, one glass at a time.

Ercole Barbera

The Ercole Barbera, hailing from the historic vineyards of Monferrato in Piedmont, Italy, is a celebration of the region’s viticultural prowess. This cooperative of local growers, stewards of the land for generations, brings forth a wine that is both a nod to tradition and a toast to the communal spirit. In your glass, the Ercole Barbera unfurls with a tapestry of red fruit notes—cherry, strawberry, and a whisper of red currant—dancing amidst a backdrop of subtle earthiness. It’s a glass of joy, unpretentious yet charming, an everyday wine that shines in the company of food. Imagine it alongside a rustic pizza, its acidity slicing through the richness of the cheese, or with a hearty mushroom risotto, where its fruitiness complements the earthy flavors. It’s a wine that doesn’t demand center stage but rather plays a supporting role, enhancing each bite, making it a versatile companion to a myriad of dishes. So, raise a glass to the simple pleasures, to the craft of winemaking, and to the hands that tend the vines.

W.T Vintners Raconteur Cab

In the verdant expanses of Washington’s Columbia Valley, W.T. Vintners crafts the Raconteur Cab, a wine that tells a story in every glass. This Cabernet Sauvignon, with a touch of Syrah, is a narrative of the land, aged for 18 months in French oak to weave complex tales of black and red cherry, dusty black currant, and a hint of wood spice. The winery, a beacon of low intervention winemaking, has been lauded as a Top 100 Winery, reflecting its commitment to terroir-driven wines. On the palate, the Raconteur Cab presents a full-flavored profile with luscious black currant flavors and a sense of purity that delights. It pairs beautifully with the robust flavors of grilled meats, making it an ideal companion for a barbecue or a cozy dinner featuring steak or lamb. Each sip is like a page turned in the valley’s rich winemaking history, inviting you to savor the story of Washington wine.

Pomum Red Blend

The Pomum Red Blend is a tapestry of Washington’s finest, a harmonious composition of 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Cabernet Franc, 9% Malbec, and 7% Merlot, with the rest being Petit Verdot. Crafted by Pomum Cellars, a winery that prides itself on capturing the essence of the Columbia Valley’s terroir, this wine is a true reflection of the region’s viticultural excellence. The 2016 vintage unfurls aromas of garden herb, coffee bean, and cocoa, leading to sleek fruit flavors that are supported by firm yet approachable tannins. With a fine sense of acidity, it’s a wine that’s best enjoyed at the dinner table, perhaps with a short decant to fully appreciate its nuances. Food pairings for this versatile blend could include hearty meat dishes like steak or lamb, or for a lighter touch, pasta with mild curries or a selection of cheeses and crackers. Each sip of the Pomum Red Blend is a journey through the rich landscape of Washington wine country, offering a taste that is as memorable as it is delightful.

Casa Magoni Viognier-Fiano

The Casa Magoni Viognier-Fiano blend is a delightful expression of Baja California’s Valle de Guadalupe, where winemaker Camillo Magoni’s Italian heritage and Mexican terroir meet. This wine, with its pale golden color, exudes aromas of white flowers and mellow fruits, with a palate that balances the peachy softness of Viognier with the earthy, nutty notes of Fiano. It’s a wine that speaks of innovation, as Magoni, a pioneer in the region, has experimented with over a hundred varieties to perfect his craft. The 2020 vintage has been described as solid, enjoyable, and fairly simple, with a fuller body and a finish that is both long and elegant. Pair it with the creamy richness of chicken or pork pasta dishes, or let it cut through the sweetness of a spicy Thai curry, and you’ll find that each sip is a testament to the winery’s dedication to creating unique cuvées that reflect the diversity of their vineyards.