Costaruél Rosé Cuveé Concerto
Tasting Notes by Barbara Hay
The Raboso grape is a red wine grape grown primarily in northeastern Italy around Veneto. This little-known grape is essentially the sister grape of the white Prosecco, and Costaruél uses it to make a similarly delicate sparkling wine.
This is a pretty pink wine with pale copper reflections, the fine effervescent beads provide a golden sparkle to the wine.
The aromas are elegant and intense with fresh delicate strawberry and peach touched by a scant bit of fresh herbs. The nose carries through to the crisp, prickly palate with fresh delicate summer fruits, watermelon, red berries and a creamy mousse. The subtle fruitiness is refreshing and tongue-tickling. All of this freshness leads to a crisp and dry finish. The initial signs of sweetness are backed with a tart acidity making this a round and structured pink sparkler.
This gentle pink is great served on a warm summer’s day as an apéritif prior to a barbecue with hors d’oeuvres, summer salads, Sunday brunches, strawberries, cheesecake or as a special dessert.
Milesi Giovanni Cellatica Superiore
Tasting Notes by Barbara Hay
Located in the historical Franciacorta area, Cellatica is situated just a few miles away from Brescia and, thanks to the hills surrounding it and favorable climate, is one of the most sought after towns of the area. The name of the municipality derives from the Latin “cella”, perhaps for wine, referring to the production of wine for which the town has always been renowned. The locality boasts the excellent quality “Cellatica DOC” red wine and the “Vernaccia di Cellatica”.It is in this region that Milesi Giovanni Antico Attico Cellatica Superiore is made from a blend of 40% Marzemino, 30% Barbera d’Asti, 20% Schiava Gentile and 10% Incrocio Terzi. This is a delicously pleasant red.
There is a creaminess on the palate, with cherry and cranberry flavors followed by an unusual herbaceous sweetness and hints of an alpine forest. The wine has soft lingering tannins and medium acidity making it ideal for tasting on it’s own or pairing with meals. this wine pairs especially well with risotto with mushrooms, salamis, cold cuts, and red and grilled meats. Best served at 18 ° C. It can age well for three to five years.