Cesare was born with the taste of Sangiovese in his mouth, as he says it. He's 4th generation to be making wine in Chianti Classico, and we dig into so many topics that are very relevant in today's wine world. From the introduction to the Gran Selezione tier to what is happening with the branding of Super Tuscans and how they're involving. I also always enjoy hearing how the next generation is gearing up to take over. Please note, this podcast will sound better if listening while riding a Ducati at 200 mph (actually don't do that, but listen and you'll get it)!
Vineyards by the Sea: Firriato
Federico Lombardo di Monte Iato runs the Sicilian winery Firriato. He comes on the show to talk about how far Sicily has from its recent history of supplying bulk wine to Northern Italy and France. I learned a ton from Federico, from the various zones of western Sicily and even the island of Favagnana to the mountain wines of Etna. If you can't bask in under the Sicilian Sun, may as well listen to this podcast and dream about it!
Bubbles from Borgoluce Prosecco
On this week's show, we talk Prosecco with Alessandro Samogin from Borgoluce in the Valdobbiadene. He grew up on the property and his wife is now the winemaker; they grow all their food for the restaurant and estate as well as produce all their electricity on site. What a crazy operation! We talk about how Valdobbiadene is unique and special, how Glera is king for them, and how there is now becoming awareness of the Rive (similar to cru). And, so much more!
A Different Nebbiolo: ArPePe in the Valtellina
Isabella Pelizzatti Perego is 5th generation wine producer in the Valtellina of Northern Italy, and comes on the show to talk about her amazing wines, vineyard and cru-focused Nebbiolo. She talks about the differences of Nebbiolo from her vineyards, locally called Chiavenasca, and that of Barolo and Barbaresco. We also get into some of the sub-regions and special wines they make; it's so inspiring to hear Isabella's story!
Music is performed by a local female choir for which Isabella sings, called Coro Clara Wieck, and they're coming out with an album towards the end of 2017: www.clarawieck.org
No Risk, No Fun for Lageder!
Alois Clemens Lageder, 6th generation winemaker in the Alto Adige, and Jo Pfisterer, head winemaker, tell the story of their region in the north of Italy. We dig into their histories, the experimentation they have going on, the grapes they're producing in the Alto Adige, and so much more. I bet you didn't know they grow Tannat and Assyrtiko in Italy! They clearly had a good time with traveling through Austin and spreading the good word.
Schiopetto wine in Friuli
For this episode, we're joined by Dr. Cristian Maddalena, export manager for Schiopetto (Friuli) and Siro Pacenti (Brunello). Cristian has a PhD in history and gives us a unique glimpse into the wine and culture of Northeast Italy. He has a wonderful way of describing the unique indigenous grapes of the region as well as the International varieties that have been there for centuries, as well as showing absolute pride to be part of the Schiopetto family. We talk history, vineyards, culture, food, and so much more! You can find more information at: http://www.schiopetto.it/en/
Digging into the wines of Umbria and Friuli
Check out this wonderful discussion with Giulia Luccioli, sales director of Sagravit, and Anthony Salazar, sommelier of Gusto Restaurant in Austin. Sagravit is the largest Agricultural company in Italy, managing the land interests of the Order of Malta. They oversee 3 really historical estates in Umbria, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, and Prosecco. Anthony talks about Italian Restaurant Week in Austin with proceeds going to the earthquake disaster relief of Central Italy.
Prosecco was never so much fun as with Laura Ronca
Laura Ronca is part of the Drussian Family even though she is not related. She travels the world try to explain the uniqueness of Drussian and Althea Prosecco. Hillside vineyards, native yeasts, extended time on the lees, all make Prosecco lovers weak in the knees. She even teaches us how to pronounce Conegliano-Valdobbiadene! Enjoy the freshness and liveliness of our conversation!
Francesco di Filippis on Biodynamics
Francesco is partner and wine grower at Cosimo Maria Masini. He is a PhD in organic and biodynamic farming and is very proud to share with all that they do on the estate in the Chianti Region of Italy. He shows off his Trebbiano, orange wine, Sangiovese, and Vin Santo! www.cosimomariamasini.it
Michael D'Amato breaks down Italian Wine
Michael D'Amato, national sales manager for Montcalm Imports, gives an overview of the wine producing regions of Italy. We focus on some lesser known areas and grape varieties. Plus, Michael tells some great stories about his travels.