November 2006

Last June I attended a wine tasting sponsored by my largest Italian wine supplier. The focus of the tasting was to highlight some of his better selling Italian wines. Just as importantly was to highlight some of the new Argentinean and Spanish wines this company was expanding into. We tasted over 25 different wines as well as a few Italian cordials, and aperitif's. Special pricing was allowed to those who ordered on that day, and took delivery in November. Well November is here, and so is my wine. Wines, inventory quantities, pricing, and tasting notes as follows: These wines are only available at our 23rd & Iowa store.

Argiolas "S'elegas" Nuragus di Cagliari: One of the first wines tasted that day, and what a hit!  Oranges, white peaches, and lemon zest are intertwined with subtle herbs.  Remarkably crisp and elegant with great acidity.  Pretty intense and richly fruity with bright acids keeping the wine focused and lively on the tongue.
Normal price $15.99.  Intro price $13.99.  Save 15%. One case available in wooden bins. Case discounts to apply.

Tasca d'Almerita:  The only other white wine I purchased that day. Very similar to the Argiolas listed above with green apples and lemons taking center stage.  No herbs this time though. Just fruit. Great acidity just like the Argiolas. Try with any seafood. This wine would replace the lemon squeeze.
Normal price $14.99. Intro price  $10.99. Save nearly 40%. One case available in wooden bins. Case discounts do apply.
By the way, this wine did receive a 90 pt rating from Wine Advocate.  I should have bought more!!

Bodegas Fontana "Mesta" Tempranillo: One of the objectives of this tasting was to kick-off their new Spanish portfolio.  I unfortunately only found one wine worth bringing in. I did buy 10 cases of it however. Bright fruit of mostly bing cherries, and a touch of leather make this quite good especially for  the money. Maybe not a great wine, but definitely a great value.
Normal price $11.99. Intro price $7.99. Save 50%. 10 cases available stacked in Spanish isle. Case discounts to apply.

Di Majo Norante 'Contado":  Best wine of the night hands down. Blueberry, blackberry, and cassis fruit are layered upon each other. Great tannin and acids keep it focused and vibrant. Great texture. Great mouthfeel. I tried ordering 10 cases, but only one came in.
Normal price $18.99. Intro price $15.99. Save 20%. One case in wooden bins. 
Sorry about the small allocation.  I may order more at that $18  price.