In December 2011, Piedmont’s Cantina Sociale di Canelli made its US debut, introducing four wine styles from its prolific portfolio to trade and press in New York. The wines presented included a Pinot Nero and Chardonnay Vino Spumante Brut, a Piemonte Chardonnay DOC, Due Bollicine, the Albarelle Barbera d’ Asti DOCG, and Bricco Sant’ Antonio Moscato d’Asti DOCG.

Throughout Cantinal Sociale di Canelli Wine Week, New York restaurants showed off these classic Italian wines with daring pairing menus. Luncheons and dinners took place at SD 26, The Leopard at des Artistes, Le Cirque, Barbetta, Serafina and Saint Ambreous, and were hosted by two experts in the New York wine scene, celebrated educator, author, and James Beard Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Kevin Zraly, and acclaimed journalist, sommelier, author and educator Anthony Giglio. The two discussed characteristics of these wines, terroir and other aspects of Italy’s famed growing region; Piedmont with importers, retailers, bloggers and journalists at the events.

Cantina Sociale di Canelli brings together the production and resources of over two hundred vine-growers. These vineyards are owned by members of the cooperative; who conduct their operations with a common respect for traditional practices while maintaining a decidedly modern mindset open to innovation. Export Manager, Giorgio Musso explains that “It is this unified and balanced approach that has enabled Cantina di Canelli to become an important player in the local economy producing and exporting approximately 90% of the bottle wine produced.”

The week concluded with a holiday party at the New Yorkoffice of the Italian Trade Commission, celebrating the Cantina Sociale di Canelli’s arrival in the US. The reception was attended by notable trade, journalists and Italian dignitaries in New Yorkand was hosted by Kevin Zraly. After a Spumante toast to the aseasoncomments from Italian Trade Commissioner Aniello Musella, applauded the Cantina Sociale di Canelli’s “dedication to fostering ideal conditions for viticulture and wine production on the whole. The numerous accolades their wines have received are a testament to the unified commitment to excellence of the cooperative’s membership and above all to the quality of their wines. We are confident that trade and press alike will enjoy these wines and we look forward to their reaction as they have this unique opportunity to preview a selection of wines from Cantina di Canelli prior to their official US market entrance.”

Look forward to more information upcoming on the ItalianMade blog on the Cantina Social di Canelli Wine Week.