The greatest little wine shop on the Palouse continues it’s journey across the European countryside. Having jus sampled the best red and white wines that France has to offer, the wine tour of Europe presses on. We head now to Italy, home of some of the best food and wine on the planet.
Starting in the beautiful northern region of Piedmont (that’s the thigh of the “boot” for those who are directionally challenged), where beef is king and the barbera grape is his queen. The Scarpetta Barbera del Monferrato is as delicious as it is savory. Beautiful notes of plum and porcini mushrooms dominate the aroma and it finishes soft and supple on the palate with low tannin, a medium body and juicy acidity. This pairs perfectly with pizza or an Italian seasoned steak.
We head south the beautiful and famous Tuscany (right around the knee of the “boot” for those of you following along). Here, Sangiovese reigns supreme, with its bright notes of red cherries and a tonic-like herbaceousness. The Cala Civetta Sangiovese di Toscano hold true to type, with light ruby colors and fleshy red cherries. On the nose, you’ll get a numbing brew of basil and thyme with the soft splash of acidity and ripe red fruit. For those hunters among you, this pairs well with game birds and pretty much anything with tomato sauce.
Finally, all the way to arch in the foot of the boot of beautiful Italia, we head to the province of Taranto, in a little region called Manduria. Here, the best is saved for last as the delicious and rich Felline Primitivo di Manduria is served. This decadent wine has notes of Bing cherry, fresh Italian herbs and soft French oak. This wine is best served with roasts, for those of you who have patience to cook, but no patience to enjoy this delicious wine.