What's really a bummer about Italian Dolcetto is that it's so hard to find a good one here in California! Most importers don't bother much with it. Instead they import big hefty and pricey Nebbiolo and important, age-worthy Barbera. Maybe they're thinking Dolcetto isn't as complex as the other wines, hasn't won all the lofty points … Continue reading Dolcetto = Love
Category: Regions
Roero DOCG: Arneis
If you read wine books about Roero, they will sum it up (if they even mention it at all) as the neighbor to Barolo and Barbaresco, and the region that is best at producing Arneis, a slightly fragrant, fruity, and light white wine. While I agree that Roero does produce high quality Piemontese white wines, … Continue reading Roero DOCG: Arneis
Barbera and Nebbiolo: California vs Piemonte
Well, I write a lot of notes but have neglected to document one of my most important nights in Italy last fall. Part of me is disappointed and part of me relieved. At the sacrifice of finding every little nuance in every wine I tried, I took the opportunity to just be present and appreciate … Continue reading Barbera and Nebbiolo: California vs Piemonte
Roero DOCG: Nebbiolo
A couple of years ago when I was visiting the winery of Matteo Correggia, one of the most prominent producers of the Roero region, and Sara Palma, who oversees the winery's marketing and external relations, was explaining to me the terrain of the Roero, I asked if there was a map of the cru vineyards … Continue reading Roero DOCG: Nebbiolo
A Ruchè by any other name, would smell as sweet
When you think of great wine from Piedmont, you probably think of Barolo and Barbaresco and not much else, right? I mean, really. What else is there? Well the zones called Barolo and Barbaresco are located within the geographical location called the Langhe. The Langhe is within the political province of Cuneo. There are other … Continue reading A Ruchè by any other name, would smell as sweet
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!
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