Spanish Garnacha
Dive into the world of unique wines with J.D. Landis' review of the '85 Marc Brédif Vouvray, a wine 'most people' won't like. Find out why we disagree.
We have a passion for some exceptional wines made out of the Southern Okanagan, based around our estate vineyards in Osoyoos which produce wines like Viognier, Syrah and Merlot.
Pinyeres Wines looks like one of those wines we’d be equally as happy opening to drink with a meal as we are to let it take center stage on a wine rack, acting as a conversation-starter. Atipus designed the label for Celler Masroig, ditching traditional wine designs and opting for something modern that actually tied […]
We like to try new wines, but sometimes a wine guide that is a mile long can be overwhelming. So we're sticking to three. Yep, just three wines fit for the coming Memorial Day weekend.
Choose a Keto friendly red wine - like Fit Vine wines. We love using orange Zevia or Virgil’s!
Our Wines Great wine, without the rules. Drink red in bed and rosé in the snow. Use the big glass & fill it up too high. Add ice, a straw, or go ahead and drink it straight from the bottle, we won’t judge. You have our permission to enjoy Spade & Sparrows however you like.
I have enjoyed exploring Bordeaux wines over the years; so when a wine lover friend gave us some old Bordeaux style wines I was delighted. Before sharing the outcome of opening a few bottles of old red Bordeaux styles wines let me briefly review Bordeaux wines. After all you might ask, "what is special about Bordeaux red wines?" While perhaps there are many possible answers there are two points, which I would like to make. First, the aging potential, and second the price. The tannins are often high enough in Bordeaux red wines that these will age for decades. Yes, I know some Bordeaux wines can be quite expensive but overall, they are amongst the best buys. Often you can pickup good red Bordeaux wines in the 40-50 dollar range, and some in the 20's. La Dame de Montrose, Chateau Bellegrave, Chateau Lalande-Borie © Spaswinefood Bordeaux Wines © Spaswinefood Bordeaux Wines First, I must admit Bordeaux wines present a challenge for some of us to make sense. Let me recall a sharing of wines from one of the most important Bordeaux regions, the Left Bank. This is an area where Cabernet Sauvignon wines dominate. The Left Bank Bordeaux Blend by law includes Cabinet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Carmemere (rarely). The general flavor profile is black cherry, black current, cedar, cinnamon, baking spices, and graphite. Whereas, the general taste profile is dry, full body, medium-high tannins, medium acidity, with 13.5-15% ABV. Photo of The Wine Districts of Bordeaux It was an event where we were walked through the tasting of each wine by Claire "Sudsy" Torbeck who drew from her extensive enological background. That event included five 2016 Bordeaux red wine blends from the Left Bank, from St-Estephe, Pauillac, St-Julien, and Margaux within Haut-Medoc area, and Pesac-Leognan within the Graves area. La Dame de Montrose, Saint Estephe; Bellegrave, Pauillac; Lalande-Borie St-Julien © Spaswinefood It was indeed a special treat when Claire introduced us to 2016 Bordeaux wines. We did not explore any wines from the Right Bank, or Entre-Deux-Mers areas. Neither did we explore white wines, or any of the recent rosé wines from Bordeaux. Obviously, there is so much to learn about Bordeaux wines. Claire "Sudsy" Torbeck © Spaswinefood So if you are thinking about picking up some Bordeaux red wines to store then 2016 would be a good vintage to do so. Yes, you can store them until 2023 and beyond. Checking the Wines © SpaswinefoodBordeaux Wine Classification 1855 was done by wine brokers who ranked Chateaus based on reputation and price. Based on that system Chateaus were ranked from first through to fifth growths (crus in French). Needless to say, many Chateaus were not included in the original system. Ranking creates a bias given the perception of quality influences price. Nevertheless, these days do not be surprised if second growth ranking is getting a higher price than a first growth. To keep this discussion brief when we consider Bordeaux wines the following is an overview: 1. Bordeaux Red Wines Left Bank Bordeaux Blend by law includes Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Carmémere (rarely). Right Bank Bordeaux Blend includes Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon. Blind Tasting of Bordeaux and Bordeaux Style Wines © Spaswinefood 2. Bordeaux White Wines A tiny part of Bordeaux’s wine production is dedicated to white wines. These wines are made with Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and the rare Muscadelle. 2016 Bordeaux Reds and Sauternes Ready to Cellar © Spaswinefood 3. Sauternes and the Sweet Side of Bordeaux Sauternes, a sweet wine from the Sauternais region of Graves. It is made from Sémillon, Sauvignon blanc, and Muscadelle grapes that have been affected by Botrytis cinerea (noble rot). Sauternes is one of the few wine regions where infection with noble rot is a frequent occurrence. Even so, production can be a hit-or-miss proposition, the harvests results vary from vintage to vintage. Wines from Sauternes, especially the Premier Cru Supérieur can be very expensive, largely due to the very high cost of production. Barsac lies within Sauternes, and is entitled to use either name. Similar but less expensive and typically less-distinguished wines are produced in the neighboring regions of Monbazillac, Cérons, Loupiac and Cadillac. 2016 Coutet, Sauternes, Barsac 2016 Coutet, Sauternes Barsac © Spaswinefood These days Bordeaux has a sweet side to checkout. Bordeaux's sweet side is amazing. It is so easy to fall in love with the Sweet Wines of Bordeaux. Founded in 2009 by the Union des Grands Vin Liquoreux de Bordeaux, Sweet Bordeaux is a brand of sweet and dessert white wines, from eight Protected Designations of Origin (DOCs) vineyards within the Bordeaux region. The slow, painstaking harvesting process and limited production makes Sweet Bordeaux especially rare and selective white wines. In conclusion, exploring Bordeaux's wines has been both enlightening and delightful. For sure Bordeaux wines have made an impact around the world. Many wine regions around the world have been making Bordeaux style red wines for a long time. During my wine travels I have enjoyed Bordeaux style wines in the wine regions of Argentina, Australia, California, Chile, Romania, and South Africa. Old Bordeaux Style Red Wines © Spaswinefood Bordeaux Style Wines Given Bordeaux style wines impact around the world I have enjoyed getting to know these wines as well. Such is the case with the two older Bordeaux style wines that we recently opened. If Bordeaux red wines age for decades because of their high tannins will Bordeaux style wines also age for decades too? Some will and others less so, I suspect. The following two wines are but two examples, and are not meant to be representative. 1999 Bordeaux Style Red Wines (bottom two) © Spaswinefood 1. Carmenet, Moon Mountain Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma Valley, California 1999 Carmenet, Moon Mountain Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma Valley 1999 © Spaswinefood Carmenet, Moon Mountain Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 1999 © Spaswinefood Carmenet, Moon Mountain Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma Valley, California 1999 (Cabernet Sauvignon 76%, Cabernet Franc 9%, Merlot 8%, Petit Verdot 7%) The average rating for 1999 vintage for this region was 90 - Excellent) 2022 Vintage Chart: In Decline - Pass Prime Drinking Conclusion: Yes, pass its prime 2. Rosemount Estates, Traditional Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot Petit Verdot, South Australia (McLaren Vale & Langhorne Creek )1999 Rosemount Estates, Traditional, South Australia 1999 © Spaswinefood Rosemount Estates, Traditional, 1999 (back label) © Spaswinefood Rosemount Estates Traditional Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot Petit Verdot, South Australia (McLaren Vale & Langhorne Creek )1999 (Cabernet Sauvignon 75%, Merlot 15%, Petit Verdot 10%) The average rating for 1999 vintage for this region was 89 - Very Good. 2022 Vintage Chart: In Decline - Pass Prime Drinking Conclusion: Yes, pass its prime Overall the two Bordeaux style wines still showed good color for their age. Their taste did not hold up, as to be expected for this age. Needless to say, this will not discourage me from adding new Bordeaux wines to the cellar, such as 2018 Chateau Siran. Chateaux Siran 2018 © Spaswinefood I plan to continue exploring Bordeaux wines, even old Bordeaux style wines. Obviously my goal will drink them before they pass their prime. I invite you to join me in my future wine adventures at Wine Travels with Dr. Sharon and at Spaswinefood on Twitter and Facebook. CHEERS! Antigua, Guatemala Sharon March 2022 © Spaswinefood Red Bordeaux Wines © Spaswinefood Discovery Session: Sweet Wines of Bordeaux, WMC21 © Spaswinefood Follow me on Twitter and Facebook
Attention Aldi shoppers, we stalked our local Aldi stores like we were trying to score the wine advent calendar (you know what that's like!). And we found some new sparkling wines at a very reasonable, dare we say cheap price point. We grabbed them and popped them, and, of course, tasted them. Sparkling Wine Tasting We love to do
Rooted in a rich American tradition, we stay true to time-honored principles, like chef-driven cuisine, impeccable wines and exceptional hospitality to give you an experience like no other.
Marche is an explosion of color, living Fauvism.You’ll feel stupefied by such beauty, as you will by the wines of this region.Juicy, tasteful, full bodied but subtle wines, marked by the inner story of this land. Every wine is a manifesto of a particular place, maybe where the Romans planted the first vineyard or where only few vignerons are still cultivating an ancient grape that none will ever know. And we have to thank them, because after years of perfecting their techniques, of searching for clones and selecting vines, we are all happy to enjoy the results of their endeavors, and we are not only speaking about great white wines like Verdicchio, but also about Sangiovese, Lacrima di Morro (produced exclusively in the village of Morro d’Alba), Montepulciano and Vernaccia di Serrapetrona, all native and ready to be discovered with a great Marche wine tour! | Good Things From Italy - Le Cose Buone d'Italia
Gifford Hirlinger is a small, family owned, estate winery located in the heart of the Walla Walla Valley. We focus on making the best wines possible using fruit grown in our estate vineyards. Our production is small, and tightly focused. We make the types of wines that we ourselves like to drink and over the … Read More
Ever feel like the pros at wine tastings are speaking their own secret language? In a way, they are. Learn the ins and outs of "tasting grids," which set the standard for how we evaluate wines and the words we use to talk about them.
There are 200+ wineries in the Okanagan Valley! We love visiting the best Okanagan wineries, like Daydreamer Wines, Summerhill for bubbly, Black Hills for their Nota Bene and Pentage.
Waterfront restaurant in Kirkland WA specializing in handmade pasta, local seasonal ingredients and Italian wines. We also offer private dining in our wine room, patio, lounge or entire restaurant. Relax in our beautiful restaurant with candlelight, views of Lake Washington and feel like you are on Lake COMO!
Nike doesn't make fine wines, but if they did, we imagine they'd look a lot like A Ma Maniére's premium take on the Air Jordan 1. Here's where to buy.
We love traveling around the world and discovering new regions. And generally, it's the occasion to find and learn about new grape varieties like Carignan 🍇. Do you know this grape variety? Do you like wines made with it? 🤔 #winery #map #vins
February 1st, 2025 was International Furmint Day. In fact the whole month of February is Furmint February, an idea introduced and promoted by Dániel Kézdy, author of Tokaj and its People and Vineyards. Furmint wines, indigenous to Tokaj (toe-kye), are produced in a variety of styles, ranging from bone dry to extremely sweet. While it is a grape that is susceptible to botrytis, its high acidity makes it excellent for the production of sweet wines. Yes, most recognize its stardom as a sweet wine, its Tokaji Aszú, that noble sweet wine, however, Furmint is increasingly being used to create fresh, fruity, mineral-tinged dry wines. Moreover, Furmint is also being produced as a sparkling wine. Though Furmint is not the most-planted variety, it is an important Hungarian grape to know. Besides the joy of learning about this grape, Furmint both creates and brings memories to our glasses. Chateau Dereszla Wines © Spaswinefood Ever since my very first introduction to Tokaj wines I have strived to learn more; so when I visited Tokaj last May it was, for me, a dream come true. I was so excited to visit the Tokaj wine region for the first time. The Tokaj Wine Region, which takes its name from the town of Tokaj, was established in 1737. It was the first wine region in the world to create an official vineyard classification. While the region is best known for its Tokaji Aszú, a noble sweet wine, it has also received attention for its sparkling and dry white wines. Since 2014 Tokaj's sweet wines have been categorized as Late Harvest, Szamorodni, and Aszú wines. While it has taken me some time to develop an understanding of Tokaj's Furmint wines, the journey has been amazing. Tokaj Vineyard, Hungary May 2024 © Spaswinefood Welcome to Tokaj Wine Country I was excited to return to Hungary last May because it meant I would get to learn more of its Furmint wines. I was in Hungary for the 2024 Federation International of Wine Brotherhoods (FICB) International Wine Tasting and Rating Challenge, Hungary 23-28 May 2024. It was hosted this year by Pannonia Wine Sisterhood. The main program was held in Budapest, from May 23-May 26, 2024, followed by the extension program in Tokaj, from May 26-May 28, 2024. After the main program in Budapest off we went to explore Tokaj Wine Country. Let's Toast to Furmint © Spaswinefood My earlier Furmint explorations had included attending Master Classes at Rovinhud Wine Shows, and wine tastings during stopovers in Budapest. The result of these earlier efforts I developed insights into Hungary's best known wine region. Learning about Furmint Wines © Spaswinefood Last May our FICB group traveled from Budapest to Tokaj, stopping in Ager. We concluded the day at Tokaj's Wine Research Institute where we received an introduction to the region. That evening we met three of Tokaj's female winemakers: 1. Judith Bodó, Bott Winery, 2. Stephanie Berecz, Kikelet Tokaj, and 3. Sarolta Bárdos, Tokaj Nobilis They introduced themselves, their winery, and shared their wines during dinner (see article). Stephanie Berecz, Sarolta Bárdos & Judith Bodó © Spaswinefood Next day, we participated in the following four activities: 1-2. visited Oremus and Patricius wineries, 3. had lunch with Chateau Dereszla Wines and 4. concluded the day with Sezpsy Wines, which were introduced by Europe’s 2022 Winemaker of the Year, Ivan Sezpsy. Our visit to Tokaj was simply amazing. I left with wonderful memories to add to my earlier Furmint introductions. Memories of Furmint in My Glass Vignette Christmas Eve 2020 Christmas Eve 2020 we opened a bottle of Erzsébet Winery, Estate Furmint, Tokaj 2015. These were the days when a glass of Furmint was such a pleasure. Fortunately for me, my shipment of Hungarian wines arrived in time for the Holiday Season that year. Since Furmint wines are high on my list they were amongst the wines I selected. Hungarian Furmint Wines © Spaswinefood Hungarian Dry Furmint WinesIn an earlier post I focused on three dry Furmint wines from Tokaj and one sparkling Furmint wine from the Kali Basin. Three of those dry Furmint wines were from the Tokaj Wine Region. While the region is best known for its Tokaji Aszú, a noble sweet wine, it is also receiving attention for its dry white wines. Let's take a peek at three of these dry wines. 1. Erzsébet Winery, Estate Furmint, Tokaj 2015 2. Kvaszinger Winery, Estate Furmint, Tokaj 2016 Tokaj Furmint Wines © SpaswinefoodTwo of the dry wines have Tokaj embossed on the bottle. 1. Erzsébet Winery, Estate Furmint, Tokaj 2015 Erzsébet Winery, Estate Furmint, Tokaj 2015 © SpaswinefoodThe Erzsébet Winery, Estate Furmint, Tokaj 2015 is excellent and I would highly recommend it. 2. Kvaszinger Winery, Estate Furmint, Tokaj 2016 Kvaszinger Winery, Estate Furmint, Tokaj 2016 © Spaswinefood Kvaszinger Winery, Estate Furmint, Tokaj 2016 is a blend of Furmint from their three vineyards (Hatalos, Meszes, and Új-Bukler). Kvaszinger family who arrived in Tokaj in 1880's managed to hang onto their 1929 vineyard (Hatalos) through two world wars and communism. 3. Barta Winery, Old King Furmint Tokaj 2012 Barta Winery, Old King Furmint Tokaj 2012 © SpaswinefoodGiven this is not my first time tasting this a Barta Furmint, Barta is a name that I associated with Furmint wines. This wine come from their Király(King) Vineyard. Öreg Király (Old King) has a history dating back to 1285. In conclusion this was a 12 year Furmint with amazing character. The Sparkling Side of Furmint The fourth Furmint wine that I will share is not from Tokaj. It is also a sparkling wine. 4. Pálffy Winery, Methode Traditionelle Furmint, Káli Basin 2016 Pálffy Winery, Methode Traditionelle Furmint, Káli Basin 2016 © Spaswinefood This sparkling Furmint wine is from the Káli Basin, a unique wine region the the northern shore of Lake Balaton. The winery has 40 acres that is organically farmed. This 2016 vintage is the second sparkling wine production by the winery. It would pair well with oysters, citrus-based dishes, seafood and ceviche. It also goes well as an aperitif. We enjoyed it with a Dutch Baby (Puffed Pancake), topped with fruit and whipped cream. Dutch Baby (Puffed Pancake) © Spaswinefood The above four Furmint wines showcased excellence in Furmint wines. Time to Explore Furmint Wines © SpaswinefoodI would recommend the following four Furmint wines: 1. Erzsébet Winery, Estate Furmint, Tokaj 2015 2. Kvaszinger Winery, Estate Furmint, Tokaj 2016 3. Barta Winery, Old King Furmint Tokaj 2012 4. Pálffy Winery, Methode Traditionelle Furmint, Káli Basin 2016 Before closing I would like to add some earlier Furmint memories. Vignettes from Earlier Furmint Memories Tasting these Furmint wines brought back memories of those earlier fall days in Budapest, and attending the Rovinhud Wine Show 2017 and 2018 in Timisoara, Romania. #Winelovers, St. Andrea Wine and Gourmet Bar 2017 © Spaswinefood In addition have had the pleasure to attend a number of #winelover hangouts in Budapest. During the 2017 hangout I meet László Bálint, the Budapest-based founder of Furmint USA, an educational and marketing organization that promotes Hungarian wine in the U.S. market. For sure Furmint wines were amongst the wines we explored that evening. Hungarian Wine Moments, St. Andrea Wine and Skybar © Spaswinefood Yes, it was not only a most delightful dinner at St. Andrea Wine and Gourmet Bar but also our visit to St. Andrea Wine and Skybar was so enjoyable. It was a most delightful evening with Hungarian wines. A few more Furmint wines would turn up at our 2018 #Winelover Hangout in Budapest, which was held at Divin Porcello, one Budapest's top restaurants. Arriving at Divin Porcello © SpaswinefoodFor me, the evening began with meeting some new #winelover friends over bubbles. There were also reunions with old friends. Many friendships begin, or are renewed at such gatherings. Sharing Time with #Winelovers, Budapest © SpaswinefoodAs usual there is always a great lineup of wines shared at a #Winelover's Hangout. This time was no exception. Wine Lineup, #Winelover Hangout 2018 © Spaswinefood Rovinhud Wine Shows: Furmint Memories From Budapest it was onto Rovinhud Wine Show 2017 in Timisoara, Romania. During the conference I attended a master class on Furmint wines. I was first introduced to Furmint wines from Barta Winery Furmints. It was master's class on Furmint wines given by Barta Winery. This session was at the top on my agenda, as I wanted to learn more about Hungarian Furmint wines. Furmint Class, Rovinhud Wine Show © Spaswinefood During the class Furmint wines produced in a variety of styles, ranging from bone dry to extremely sweet, were discussed. Barta Winery, Rovinhud Wine Show © SpaswinefoodWe tasted Furmint wines from Barta Winery, Mád, Hungary. During the class Furmint wines produced in a variety of styles, ranging from bone dry to extremely sweet, were discussed. Wine highlights from this Rovinhud Wine Show presentation included: Barta Winery's Eight Wines Tasted © Spaswinefood Furmint Wines, Rovinhud Wine Show © SpaswinefoodYes, it was an exciting lineup of Barta Winery wines. Please taste Barta Winery Furmint wines if you get the opportunity. Furmint Wines, Rovinhud Wine Show © SpaswinefoodMy 2017 #budapesttobucharest Spaswinefood adventure was a great opportunity for me to discover some stellar Hungarian wines. November 2018 I returned to the Rovinhud Wine Show, Timisoara to attended another Master Class entitled Golden Treasures of Tokaj: From Late Harvest to Aszú. Tokaj's sweet wines, for which the region is best know. Golden Treasures from Tokaj, Rovinhud 2018 © Spaswinefood The class was given by Barca Károly from Barta Prince, Filep Gergely from Disznókő, and Kovács Zoltán from Royal Tokaji. Late Harvest, Szamorodni, and Aszú Wines © SpaswinefoodThree producers came together to share some of the most amazing sweet wines in the world. By the end of the session I was introduced to categories now used to describe these wines. Since 2014 Tokaj's sweet wines have been categorized as Late Harvest, Szamorodni, and Aszú wines. Hungary's Furmint wines are not only delicious but also, are extra special for creating wine memories with friends. Indeed for me, it is always pure enjoyment to explore Hungarian Furmint wines. If you would like to explore Hungarian wine the good news is that Taste Hungary now offers Hungarian Wines in the US. Hungarian Wines in the US is the perfect online source to discover these wines. A Forbes article also recommends them. Perhaps you are curious about Hungarian wines. There are 22 official wine regions. Each region has their own particular blend of culture, history, terroir and wine style. This means there are lots of Hungarian wines to explore. On a personal note being able to relive my memories, of Budapest and Rovinhud, with Furmint wines ignited a special joy during those days of COVID isolation. Returning to Hungary May 2024 was awesome. I invite you to (1) give Furmint wines a try, and (2) join me in my travels in Hungary and elsewhere at Wine Travels with Dr. Sharon and at Spaswinefood on Bluesky and Facebook. Sharon Furmint Memories February 2025 © Spaswinefood NOTE: Taste Hungary describes the bottles used in Tokaj as following two guidelines: 1. Aszú bottle—By law, since the late 19th-century, Tokaji Aszú (and other botrytized wines from the region) must be bottled in a uniform 500 milliliter “Aszú bottle.” The elegantly-shaped bottle has the word “Tokaj” embossed into the neck, and is unique to the Tokaj region. 2. Dry Tokaj Bottle—The bottle for dry Tokaji wines is a much newer addition to the region’s branding. It is modelled after the traditional Aszú bottle, just in a larger proportional 750 milliliter format (and also in 375ml and magnum sizes). The bottle succeeds in letting the customer know at first glance that they are looking at a quality dry wine from the Tokaj region. Lineup of Hungarian Furmint Wines © Spaswinefood One Novemeber Evening, Budapest 2018 © Spaswinefood Danube, Budapest May 2024 © Spaswinefood Follow me on Bluesky and Facebook
Marche on the eastern side of central Italy is considered to be a coastal gem. Our journey to Marche (pronounced Markay) was inspired by wanting to learn about this wine region. Winemaking here dates back thousands of years, being influenced by Etruscans, Romans and Lombards. While Marche is best known for its white wines Trebbiano and Verdicchio, it is also home to some big quality reds. Some of Marche's finest red wines are produced from Montepulciano and Sangiovese grapes. During our Le Marche travels we would stop in Pesaro on the Adriatic, and then head inland to Maiolati Spontini. Verdicchio wines from Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi DOC was my primary focus for our visit to Le Marche's Maiolati Spontini. We soon discovered that Le Marche is ideal for making wine discoveries off the beaten path. Wine Travels in Marche © Spaswinefood Italy's Marche The Marche region is divided into five provinces: Ancona, Ascoli Piceno, Fermo, Macerata, and Pesaro e Urbino. Within each of those provinces there is so much to discover. Why Le Marche, Italy © Spaswinefood While sometimes Marche is overshadowed by its neighbors Abruzzo to the south, and Umbria and Tuscany to the west, this wine region produces great wines. There is so much to discover about Marche's wines given it is home to 15 DOCs and 5 DOCGs. Marche Wine Appellations © Spaswinefood After our two-day visit to Pesaro (Pesaro e Urbino) on the coast, we headed inland to Maiolati Spontini (Acona) to explore wine country before traveling onto Umbria. While in the Maiolati Spontini area we explored Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi wine country. Maiolati Spontini, Marche © Spaswinefood Onto Maiolati Spontini © Spaswinefood Our drive from Pesaro to Maiolati Spontini took us, from a flat coastal into rolling hills and mountainous terrain. Overall, during our travels the highways were smooth sailing compared to the countryside roads. John was great at driving a manual shift car since I have only driven automatic cars. Welcome to Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi DOC Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi, a white-wine DOC in the Marche region, is home to dry white wines made from the ancient Verdicchio grape variety. Verdicchio means little green one. Besides dry whites, other forms of Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi include passito wines made from dried grapes (made in sweet and dry styles) and spumante, which are made using either the Charmat method or methode traditionnelle. The DOC has a superior classico sub-zone. Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Superiore designation denotes wines with an extra 0.5 percent of alcohol. Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Riserva can be given a separate higher DOCG status. The dry white wines are typically straw colored with pronounced green tinges, with a green aroma profile (herbaceous notes and fresh apples). They have crisp acidity and a pleasant, slightly bitter aftertaste redolent of toasted almonds. The wine pairs well with regional seafood dishes, such as Brodetto di Pesce (a rich seafood stew like bouillabaisse), or cheeses, such as pecorino. This wine zone is characterized by hilly landscape around the town of Jesi, Ancona province. The terroir is ideal for the production of minerally dry white wines, mostly due to its calcareous, clay and limestone soils. The area’s temperate maritime climate is due to Jesi's proximity to the Adriatic, and to the local rivers, such as the Cesano and Esino. The east-west passage of the rivers and their corresponding valleys provide the area with persistent gentle winds, onshore during the morning and offshore in the late afternoon. This constant ventilation helps prevent the onset of fungal diseases such as grey rot and mildew. Overall it has relatively dry climate. Verdicchio wines in and around Jesi are softer and more rounded than those produced in Matelica to the south. Verdicchio di Matelica wine usually needs several years of aging to round out its strong character. This is a contrast to Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi wine that is approachable within the early months. Based on local recommendations I came up with a short list of three Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi wineries to visit. Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi DOC Wine Stops © Spaswinefood Overall this was a beautiful drive through the countryside to learn about wines produced here. Intro to Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi DOC Wineries 1. AZ Agricola Sabbionare, Montecarotio Welcome to Sabbionare © Spaswinefood When we arrived at Sabbionare we went inside and received a warm welcome. The wine tasting included: (1) Sabbionare, il Filettò, Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi DOC Classico 2021 Sabbionare, il Filettò, Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi DOC Classico 2021 © Spaswinefood Il Filettò, Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi DOC Classico 2021 © Spaswinefood This dry white Veerdicchio wine is typical of the DOC Classico hoverer, other forms of Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi passito and spumante wines are also produced. 2. Sabbionare, Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi DOC Classico Superiore 2020 Sabbionare, Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi DOC Classico Superiore 2020 © Spaswinefood Sabbionare, Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi DOC Classico Superiore 2020 © Spaswinefood These two Verdicchio wines were a great introduction to the region. Sabbionare, Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi DOC Wines © Spaswinefood Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Superiore wines require an extra 0.5 percent of alcohol. In this case Il Filettò, Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi DOC Classico 2021 shows 13% alcohol versus the Sabbionare, Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi DOC Classico Superiore 2020 shows 14% alcohol. 3. Sabbionare, Ribotta Esino Rosso DOC 2021 Sabbionare, Ribotta Esino Rosso DOC 2021 © Spaswinefood Sabbionare, Ribotta Rosso Esino DOC 2021 © Spaswinefood The Ribotta Esino Rosso is a blend of Multipluciano and Sangiovese. Esino DOC is the zone stretching from Ancona, in the West, along the river Esino and parts of the Macerata province, namely the same area where the Verdicchio wines are grown. 4. Sabbionare, Cromia Marche Rosso IGT 2021 Sabbionare, Cromia Marche Rosso IGT 2021 © Spaswinefood Sabbionare, Cromia Marche Rosso IGT 2021 © Spaswinefood Cromia is a blend of Montepulciano 90% Merlot 10%. Marche IGT is used in the Marche wine region. This designation covers a wide range of wine styles (still, sparkling, sweet, etc.). For example Marche IGT Bianco may be made from any of the grape varieties approved for white wine in Marche. Marche IGT Rosato and Rosso have the same flexibility with authorized red grapes. The result is a large number varieties are allowed for single-variety and double-variety labeled wines. Our wonderful Sabbionare host that morning took us to the back patio to view their vineyard. This was our first stop for the day and so I did not linger as long as I should have. Spaswinefood Moments, Sabbionare Vineyard © Spaswinefood It was a delight to take in the vineyard views at Sabbionare winery. Sabbionare Vineyard © Spaswinefood Sabbionare Vineyard © Spaswinefood Sabbionare Vineyard © Spaswinefood It was back into the car and onto our next stop. Soon we arrived at Cantina Sartarelli where they were busy attending to the harvest. 2. Cantina Sartarelli, Poggio San Marcello Views from Cantina Sartarelli © Spaswinefood Upon arriving at Sartarelli I checked out the stunning views. Cantina Sartarelli Vineyard © Spaswinefood Cantina Sartarelli, Poggio San Marcello © Spaswinefood Cantina Satarelli is a very inviting family winery that has chosen to produce only Verdicchio. In Verdicchio Veritas is proudly displayed on the wall in the tasting room at Satarelli. Sartarelli Verdicchio Wines © Spaswinefood During our Cantina Sartarelli visit we tasted the following four wines: (1) Sartarelli, Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi DOC Classico 2021 Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi DOC Classico 2021 © Spaswinefood Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi DOC Classico 2021 © Spaswinefood (2) Sartarelli, Travilio Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi DOC Classico Superiore 2020 Travilio Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi DOC Classico Superiore 2020 © Spaswinefood 3. Sartarelli, Ballancia Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi Classico Superiore DOC 2019 Ballancia Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi Classico Superiore DOC 2019 © Spaswinefood Ballancia Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi Classico Superiore DOC 2019 © Spaswinefood (4) Sartarelli, Milletta Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi Riserva Classico DOCG 2020 Milletta Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi Riserva Classico DOCG 2020 © Spaswinefood Milletta Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi Riserva Classico DOCG 2020 © Spaswinefood This winery was an inviting place to visit. Cantina Sartarelli, Le Marche © Spaswinefood Taking a Closer Look, Cantina Sartarelli © Spaswinefood Besides taking in the vineyards views the local architecture of the winery buildings also captured our attention. Exploring Le Marche © Spaswinefood I always welcomed taking in the winery views while touring Le Marche. Le Marche's Cantina Sartarelli © Spaswinefood After two excellent winery visits we headed to lunch. Le Marche for Lunch © Spaswinefood This area of Marche has many excellent restaurant options. On the Road in Le Marche Wine Country © Spaswinefood After lunch off we went to the next winery. Marche's Landscape in October © Spaswinefood I loved not only visiting the wineries but seeing Marche's landscape in early October. AZ Agricola Pievalta, Le Marche © Spaswinefood AZ Agricola Pievalta, Maiolati Spontini, Marche © Spaswinefood 3. AZ Agricola Pievalta, Maiolati Spontini AZ Agricola Pievalta is a biodynamic winery. We stopped by this winery twice but the tasting room was not open; so we did not get to taste their wines. AZ Agricola Pievalta © Spaswinefood Tasting Room, AZ Agricola Pievalta © Spaswinefood Despite not being able to taste their we did enjoy touring Le Marche's stunning, hilly landscape. Vineyard at AZ Agricola Pievalta © Spaswinefood More on Maiolati Spontini Area While in the area we also checked out La Locanda Hostaria della Posta. In fact, we went there on the first day we arrived in the area. Hosteria Della Posta, Le Marche © Spaswinefood Time for Verdicchio, Hosteria Della Posta © Spaswinefood It was a lovely late afternoon lunch. While in Maiolati Spontini we stayed at La Torre Hotel. Out last evening there we decided to enjoy some cheese and crackers with a bottle of Torti Wines Route 66 wine. The hotel staff seeing us setting outside brought us a complementary platter to enjoy. Time for Wine, La Torre Hotel © Spaswinefood Thanks La Torre Hotel © Spaswinefood La Torre Hotel © Spaswinefood We loved our vine-filled explorations in Le Marche's Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi DOC. Those special welcomes that we received along the way added so much to our travel memories of Italy. We were inspired to visit this region after the 2021 Wine Media Conference (#WMC21) in Eugene, Oregon when we first explored wines from Marche's wine appellations (Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi, Lacrima di Morro d'Alba, Rosso Piceno DOC's, and DOCG Pecorino). Upon learning about this wine region and tasting some Le Marche wines we just had to visit. When we did Verdicchio dei Castilli di Jesi DOC, the primary focus for our visit to Le Marche, was absolutely perfect introduction to making wine discoveries off the beaten path in Italy. Wine travelers who discover this area will be impressed by the charm of its towns and wineries. I so look forward to sharing more on our Italian vine-filled explorations. I invite you to join me in my wine travels in Italy at Wine Travels with Dr. Sharon, and at Spaswinefood on Twitter and Facebook. CHEERS! Sharon October 2022 Marche, Italy © Spaswinefood Welcome to Le Marche Wine Country © Spaswinefood
For the Staro Oryahovo wines, The Labelmaker designed “a very memorable label with iconic tree and a special embossed wavy texture making the ordinary paper look like a very special custom one. […] With this artwork we believe we have successfully linked the past and its trad
