A wine region located in Italy, Emilia-Romagna is quite possibly the most developed and richest wine region in Europe. The fertile soil is fertile spans nearly the entire width of peninsula in Northern Italy. The wine region of Emilia-Romagna is situated between Marche and Tuscany to the south, and Veneto, Lombardy and Piedmont to the north.
The history of the viticulture goes back to the seventh century BC, which makes it one of the oldest wine regions in Italy. Introduced by the Etruscans and adopted by the Romans the Vitis labrusca were used for centuries, with Vitis vinifera being the most predominately grown grape today. Emilia-Romagna is famous for Lambrusco.
The significant geography of Emilia-Romagna us what creates the different terroirs in the region. The western part of the region consists of Apennine peaks and hills that make their way to the lower-lying plains just east of Modena, Parma, and Bologna. Beyond that lay the coastal plains of the Ferrara province, with a notable portion of land hitting just below sea level. Flowing east to west, the Po River marks the northern part of the rebion bordering the Adriatic Sea.
The wine production of Emilia-Romagna's wine production is divided almost identically between whites and reds, with the dominant vine varieties being Lambrusco, Barbera, Malvasia, Bonardo and Sangiovese.
Lambrusco Amabile Bruscus San Valentino Red is 100% Lambrusco from grapes grown in the province of Modena and Reggio Emilia.
Traditional vinification methods combined with modern technology to produce wines of guaranteed quality. After the grapes are pressed, they are transferred to fermentation tanks where the must is racked off in an average of 70 hours. The wine then completes its first rapid fermentation process and passes to the slower fermentation phase, during which time it is racked off several times to improve its clarity. The wine is placed in an autoclave at strictly controlled temperatures wherein it undergoes a second fermentation. This is known as the Charmat Method. The temperature is controlled for full development of the bouquet and for the lively and natural sparkle so characteristic of this wine.
Deep ruby red with violet reflections and a fine perlage.
Intense vinous bouquet with hints of ripe red fruits.
Lively, fresh, sweet and inviting with bright fruit and a delightful sparkle.
Excellent by itself or with desserts of dark chocolate, gorgonzola, cheesecakes.
Paul Hobbs George Menini Estate Chardonnay is made from 100 percent Chardonnay.
Located on the southwestern edge of the Russian River Valley appellation in an area known as the Sebastopol Hills, this Chardonnay from George Menini Estate displays pale straw in color and boasts an elixir of white and yellow florals, tart yellow apple, bartlett pear, and baking spice. A precise yet supple wine with notes of juicy Gravenstein apple, vibrant sea salt, and crushed rock, complemented by a cool-climate zing of acidity. An impressive level of complexity for a young vineyard.
Review:
The 2021 Chardonnay George Menini Estate, matured for nine months in 27% new oak, is notably perfumed and energetic. The nose segues from iodine and saline to tones of panna cotta, lilac and yuzu, and the palate is stunning with its pairing of highly concentrated, layered flavors and fireworks of fresh acidity. It has a touch of anchoring textural grip, shimmery mineral character and a very long, expressive finish. It will be very long-lived in bottle
-Wine Advocate 97 Points
Riebeek Cellars Merlot is made from 100% Merlot.
Grapes were cold soaked overnight. Inoculated with selective yeast. Fermentation took place at 24 - 26 degree Celsius. Wine were pressed at
above 2 degree Balling. Malolactic fermentation finished in stainless steel tanks. Oak maturation include French oak chips, French oak staves and 2nd and 3rd fill barrels. All blended together to perfection.
The style is elegant with distinctive red berries and well-integrated wood flavors on the nose. The pallet is velvety and smooth with an aftertaste that lingers with the juicy flavors of abundant berries.
At room temperature or slightly chilled. Enjoy with pasta or light meat dishes.