Mixed Case – Italian Barbeque

Tasting Notes

When we think of Italian food, our thoughts first turn to things like pasta, pizza and cured meats, but the reality is that the “first” Italian foods were items from the grill. Since fire is the most basic form of cooking, it is not hard to conceive of the ancient Romans (or even their forebearers) cooking their food over open flames. Anyone who has traveled into the countryside of Italy has likely had the immense pleasure of experiencing the magic of the Italian grill. Unlike its North American cousin that often relies on sweet sauces or rubs, the Italian grill is the model of simplicity where minimal seasonings such as salt, olive oil, herbs and citrus marry perfectly with the smoky flavours from natural charcoal. The cannon of Italian grilling is quite diverse, but since our case today features all red wines (there may be a “Italian Grilling -Bianco” offering in the future) we will focus our attention on the great grilled items to pair with these exceptional reds.

This mixed case consists of 3 bottles of each of the 4 red wines. Order this week for delivery next week.

La Quercia, Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2017 (Abruzzo)
A big, bold and assertive red that has lots of juicy, rich fruit, but with soft tannins as not to fight with the char or spicy black pepper notes of the grill. This would make an exceptional pairing with a spit grilled porchetta or a platter of grilled vegetables.

Colognole, Chianti Rufina 2016 (Tuscany)
From a higher elevation vineyard to the north east of Florence, this wine is all red berry fruit and spice. It is nicely matured with rounded tannins and a very lively aromatic nose. This would be a great pairing with a Tuscan Fiorentina (Porterhouse)or any grilled steak for that matter.

Luigi Righetti, Cabernet Sauvignon “Sognum” 2017 (Veneto)
A less tannic style of Cabernet that undergoes a short appassimento (drying) of the grapes to concentrate the lovely cassis notes. Black cherry and plum flavours are married to silky tannins in this wine that would go exceptionally well with grilled lamb spiedini or grilled lamb rib chops marinated in olive oil, rosemary and white wine.

Schola Sarmenti, Primitivo “Critera” 2018 (Puglia)
A rich and bold offering from the southern province of Puglia. Lots of ripe cherry and blackberry fruit makes for a wine that is round, juicy and expressive. Everything you want in your grilling companion. This wine would pair well with a nice grilled tuna steak or a spicy Diavola Chicken.

While we are calling this the Italian Grilling Case, these great reds are not limited to Italian BBQ. They would be equally at home with grilled burgers, chicken or smoky southern style ribs!