Wine Discoveries From Neal Rosenthal
Admired for discovering unique producers and growers, importer Neal Rosenthal has over four decades of experience sourcing European wine. Every bottle from this list is backed by Neal’s expertise and that of our knowledgeable staff.
Glera Frizzante, Bisson – 2021 $16.96
Don’t call it prosecco, though it’s made from the same grape. This sparkler hails from Liguria, along the rugged Mediterranean coast, rather than prosecco’s homeland in the Veneto. A vibrant & unique wine, Pierluigi Lugano’s interpretation of this grape is not to be missed. – Bambi Ray, Sales Manager
Sangue di Giuda Paradiso, Verdi – 2021 $16.96
For me this was a “come for the name of the wine, stay for what’s in the bottle,” situation. “Sangue di Giuda,” or “Blood of Judas” is named not just for its ruby red color but also because of local wine lore. There are a few legends but this is my favorite: Judas saves Oltrepò Pavese’s endemic-ridden vineyards by offering himself as sacrifice out of guilt from betraying Jesus. At the last minute, the knife is prevented from killing him by a “dark force.” The vineyards were saved nonetheless, hoorah! The wine itself is smooth but full bodied with a light mousse. It’s barely off-dry, and with only 8.5% alcohol, it’s a perfect match for spicy meat dishes like andouille jambalaya, Szechuan food, pizza with red pepper flakes, and more! – Hannah Weiss, Astor Wines & Spirits Consultant
Chinon “L’Epée”, Ch. du Petit Thouars – 2018 $19.96
If you have yet to have been introduced to Cabernet Franc, here’s a textbook example. Pour a glass and the trademark fumes of bell pepper and herbs will hit your nose. Being on the softer side of Chinon, it’s easy to access even for the timid. – Chung Park, Astor Wines & Spirits Consultant
Badebec Rosso, Cuneaz Nadir – 2019 $29.99
The Badebec Rosso is far from your typical Aostan red. This is a passito-style wine made from Petit Rouge, Fumin, and everyone’s favorite Vien de Nus. It is dry and more medium-bodied than your typical red from here. Dried cherry, anise, earth with nice acidity and mellow tannins make for a unique and delicious addition to your table. – Vince Grance, Assistant Buyer
Pouilly-Loché En Chantone, Clos des Rocs – 2020 $36.96
Never heard of Pouilly-Loché? This tiny Maconnais appellation may lack the visibility of its more famous neighbor Pouilly-Fuissé, but its under-the-radar status means there are real values to be found…This comes from a small parcel of 90-year-old vines yielding a concentrated, dense wine with ripe apple, citrus, toasted almonds, and wet stone. Rich yet fresh, generous yet focused, it’s a wine that could easily pass for a bottle at twice the price. – Amy Miller, Sales Manager
Coulon “Heri-Hodie” 1er Cru, Brut – NV $54.99
Eric and Isabelle Coulon produce Champagne from their holdings in Vrigny and its surrounding villages in the Montagne de Reims…The “Heri-Hodie” 1er Cru is almost entirely Pinot Meunier, primarily fermented in stainless steels tanks with a tiny portion of Chardonnay fermenting in barrel. Striking, with a harmony of density and unwavering focus, this is a savory style with flavors of brioche, toast, and hazelnut, with its youth supported by brimming acidity. – Jose Banegas, Astor Wines & Spirits Consultant