W.E.T.C.O.W. Wine Tasting Event #16 – Wines of Northern Italy

Event # 16 was hosted by the Braccos, who took us into the mountains of Northeastern Italy to look at some wines of the Friuli and Veneto regions.

Quick Facts:
  •  Region was part of Austria until after WWII
  •  Veneto Produces more wine than better-known regions like Tuscany, Piedmont, Puglia and Sicily.
  •  White wines (Pinot Grigio, Soave) dominate the region, due to the cooler climates and higher altitudes.
  •  Corvina is the predominant red grape, used in Valpolicella, Ripasso and Amarone/Recioto.
  •  If you have to drink a Pinot Grigio, get one from Friuli.
 The Wines:

Bastianich Adriatico Friuliano 2010  – $13.99

A typical Friulano, which expresses the history and terroir of Friuli. Medium bodied with ripe, luscious pear flavors carried by a refreshing mineral flavor and zesty, mouthwatering acidity. The Tocai Friulano grape is also characterized by a slight almond edge. Nice aromatics on the nose, very exotic; kind of spicy with some nuttiness to it. On the palate it’s full and powerful with plenty of length and depth to zesty tropical fruit that the wine has. A classic match with prosciutto. Try also with seafood and fish, pork and Asian/spicy dishes.

Vaona Valpolicella Classico 2012  – $17.99

This Valpolicella Classico obtained from the grape varieties Corvina, Rondinella and Molinara presents a ruby red color, and intense vinous bouquet and a well-structured flavor. A very alive, predominantly floral nose shows subtle hints of tobacco. Vivid tastes of cherry, recollections of earth and almond, ride on top of delicious acidity that just makes your mouth water for food. Lighter bodied with a nicely delineated structure. It goes well with rice dishes and red meats.

Zenato Cormi 2008  – $18.99

Ruby red in color, with aromas of red berries, blackberry and morello cherries. On the palate, the notes of plum and minerality of Corvina are complemented by the full flavor and sweet tannins of Merlot. A blend of 50% Corvina, the traditional grape of Amarone, and 50% Merlot. It has layers of ripe black cherries and morello cherries. Great minerality, earthiness, and well structured with a very focused finish with ripe tannins. An elegant, full bodied red that is ideally paired with Mediterranean cuisine and grilled or roasted pork, beef or lamb.

Allegrini Palazzo Della Torre 2009  – $14.99

Allegrini are one of the foremost producers in the Veneto. Their wines are rich and beautifully made expressions of the local Corvina and Rondinella grapes. Rated amongst some of the finest of all Italian wines, Palazzo della Torre is a wonderful example of modern Italian winemaking at its best.With dark cherry and dried fruit aromas, this wine is rich and powerful on the palate. Think ripe dark fruits, smooth tannins and hints of cinnamon to create a spicy finish.

SCORING RESULTS : Wines of Northern Italy – 11/9/12

Taster

Bastianich Adriatico Friuliano – 2010 – $13.98

Vaona Valpolicella Classico – 2010 – $17.99

Zenato Cormi – 2008 – $18.98

Allegrini Palazzo Della Torre – 2009 – $14.99

Bussola Recioto Della Valpolicella Classico – 2008 – $59.99

 

 

Al B.

85

85

89

91

90

Sue B.

90

85

82

88

88

Eric D.

83

86

90

87

95

Zelma D.

88

85

83

91

91

Felix G.

85

74

88

91

77

Lisa G.

97

89

83

94

95

John M.

77

87

85

86

85

Marlene M.

79

91

86

85

84

Angie O.

91

83

83

89

91

John O.

90

84

90

90

85

 

 

 

Average Score:

86.5

84.9

85.9

89.2

88.1

 

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