“Been out in the wild” Campania

A few weeks ago, I invited my new WSET buddy, Tim, along with his husband, Elliot, to join me for dinner at A16, my very favorite Italian restaurant in San Francisco. The restaurant lives up to its name by giving you the feeling you're being transported, just as the autostrada, A16, literally does, to the … Continue reading “Been out in the wild” Campania

Campania, here I come. Mi aspetta!

In about a month I am packing my bags and heading off to discover the home of Aglianico, Fiano, and Falanghina.— Campania!I am sure I have no idea what I am getting myself into. Not only will I be right there at the Amalfi coast (I will have to check it out!) and Napoli (not … Continue reading Campania, here I come. Mi aspetta!

Italian Castles and Wines —in Napa Valley!

Leave it to me to go to Napa Valley and only find Sangiovese, Aglianico, and Italian castles! A few weeks ago I spent a long weekend in the Mayacamas Mountains, the mountain range that separates Sonoma Valley from Napa Valley. In the afternoons I ventured down and east to the Napa side to explore some … Continue reading Italian Castles and Wines —in Napa Valley!

Vinitaly 2010: Day 1. Come Telepass: tutte le porte sono aperte per ti. (Like Telepass: all gates are open for you.)

Aaahhhh, it was so easy.  I got to ride with my friend, Roberto, to Veronafiere and! he got me in for free.   On the way in he asked “Do you like sparkling wines?”  My response, “Well my favorite is Franciacorta.  I enjoy Prosecco, a few other Italian sparklers, and of course Cava from Spain.  Just … Continue reading Vinitaly 2010: Day 1. Come Telepass: tutte le porte sono aperte per ti. (Like Telepass: all gates are open for you.)

Next Stop: Domenico Clerico

Notes from February 20, 2010. I’m putting him at the top of my list for my next trip!  Maybe he’ll take me in for a taste at Vinitaly this year… I had never had any of his wines, except for L’Arte 2003 back on my very first night (ever) in Barolo. But after returning from Italy … Continue reading Next Stop: Domenico Clerico