Welcome to Clo's tribute to the wine and cheese of Italy. In addition to our already broad selection of Italian wines we are offering a flight of four special wines poured in two ounce portions that may be enjoyed on their own or paired with three artisanal Italian cheeses. The following selections will be poured by our sommeliers giving you the opportunity to discuss the varietals, regions and producers of the wines we're featuring.
Flight of four $20.00, with cheese $30.00
2005 Castello di Monastero, Chianti Superiore
As Chianti exploded in popularity over the second half of the 20th century, it became a little more difficult to find the classic taste that we all loved before. Thus, we were all excited to find this gem of a Chianti Superiore from a noble villa outside Siena. What more can you ask for than all the amazing flavors of Sangiovese layered beautifully over a classically strong Italian backbone?
2007 Farnese, Montepulciano D'Abruzzo
The Farnese estate has been famous for its wines ever since the Renaissance, when Prince Octavio Farnese brought his wines with him to the noble courts of Europe. While things are a little different nowadays with a state-of-the-art winery and a rigorous quality control program, this wine still wows commoners and nobles alike with its dark fruits and smooth, rich palette feel.
2004 Librandi, Gravello
The modern world has touched but not gripped Calabria in southern Italy. Winemakers still treasure their local varietals grown in the rocky soils. Especially Gaglioppo, an ancient grape rumored to have travelled from Greece in the age of the Trojan War. Librandi continues this old world tradition with a subtle nod to the new in the Gravello. 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and a year in French oak allow the unique Calabrian flavor to shine through an elegant, structured frame.
2005 Allegrini, Palazzo Della Torre
Allegrini is famous for their representation of the wines of Verona, most notably the Amarone. Palazzo is made from the same varietals as Amarone (Corvina and Rondinella), but only thirty percent of the harvest is dried and re-introduced to the normally fermented remainder creating a 'Ripasso'. The result is a high level of richness, spice and complexity without the weight and sometimes overpowering intensity of Amarone.
Piave
Flavorful, dense, similar to Parmigiano but sweeter. Made from cows milk in the Piave River Valley in the Veneto.
Pecorino Oro Antico
Sheeps milk cheese from Tuscany. Glazed with olive oil and aged six months imparting a golden hue and earthy, herbaceous flavor.
Taleggio
Dating back to the 10th century Taleggio is a washed rind cow's milk cheese from Lombardy. Slightly stinky with a sweet, rich, full flavor.
