Italian Reds – Join us Friday and Saturday March 7-8 as we explore some of the unique and great red wines from 3 distinct regions of Italy.

’12 Zabù Nero d’Avola, Sicilia – Once associated with bulk wine and Marsala, Sicily has emerged with world class table wines from the volcanic soils of the hills.  The Nero d’Avola grape has led the way in the hands of quality minded producers such as this offering, displaying aromas of violets, black pepper, graphite and hints of blackberry fruit.  The palate is soft, fruity, and balanced, making it a good pairing with beef, lamb, and spicy preparations.  $12.50

‘09 Chianti Classico, Lanciola “Le Masse di Greve,” Toscana – The red wines of Tuscany are legendary, led by one of the great Italian varietals, Sangiovese.  Named after the Greve area in the Chianti Classico region, this wine is 95% Sangiovese and 5% Canaiolo, showing a bouquet of cherry, vanilla, and a hint of spice.  On the palate, there is a medium tannic structure accompanied by a luscious red fruit flavor, giving way to balanced acidty and a long, pleasant fruit finish.  Tuscan Sangiovese based wines are ideal pairngs with steak.  $19.99

’12 Langhe Nebbiolo, Burlotto, Piemonte – The red wines of Piedmont rank among the top in the world, known for their complexity, displaying both subtlety and power, as well as great longevity.  The most notable of these are the wines from the communes of Barolo and Barbaresco, produced from the beautiful Nebbiolo grape.  This offering, from the Langhe hills, displays some of the complexities of a Barolo at a down to earth value.  Aromas of black cherry, tea, hints of cedar and tar, give way to a medium to full palate with fine, gritty tannins and dark fruit flavor.  Great Nebbiolo is best enjoyed with roasted meats and a variety of cheeses, particularly those with a saltier finish.  $24.99