Sunday, June 29, 2014

Pio Cesare L'Altro (2012) Piemonte

A terrific summer white from Pio Cesare, a fifth generation family winery that produces traditional Piemontese wines from its 50 hectare of vineyards near Alba.  In addition to its own vineyards, Pio Cesare has fostered long-term relationships with area growers that share their viticutural philosophy.
 
The L'Altro is 100% Chardonnay that has been sourced from family-owned vineyards in Treiso (Il Bricco Estate), in Serralunga d'Alba (colombaro) and in Trezzo Tinella (Bossania).  75% of the grapes are fermented in stainless steel tanks and the remaining 25% in new French oak barriques for a welcome, light, fruity character.  The wine is kept on its fermentation lees for 5 months, prior to the bottling.  Delicious on its own or with food - something seasonal and sustainably grown - preferably artisanal and/or heirloom.  Please compost and recycle - and kids; stay in school.

Wednesday, May 28, 2014

A Perfect Warm Weather Cocktail - The Summer Negroni

A light, citrusy and herbal warm weather variation on the classic Negroni, with Aperol standing in for Campari, and Cocchi Americano for the sweet vermouth.
 
  • Ice
  • 1 ounce gin (I like Hendricks in this recipe)
  • 1 ounce Cocchi Americano
  • 1 ounce Aperol
  • Garnish: grapefruit peel  

  •  
    Fill a mixing glass with ice. Add gin, Cocchi Americano, and Aperol. Stir well. Strain into an ice-filled old fashioned glass. Twist grapefruit peel over drink to express oils, add to cocktail and serve.