Northern Italy Within Reach
Northern Italy’s exciting wine regions post little-known grapes next to iconic Barolo and Barbaresco. Choose from six of our staff’s favorites below.
Barbera, Fratelli Arditi – 2021 $6.96
Another great find by our buyers! A light-to-medium-bodied red wine that goes down easy. Fresh but not too fruity, this has all the hallmarks of a classic Barbera and it’s perfect with a slight chill. A pleasant grip on the palate makes this a nice match for cheese and sliced meats. Go to town! – Josh Mizrahi, Sales Manager
Pinot Grigio, Abbazia di Novacella – 2022 $23.96
This is a serious Pinot Grigio with depth, power, and minerality (and this is just the entry-level bottling). It may cost a bit more than others but when you taste it, you’ll know EXACTLY why. Get out your postcards. – Bambi Ray, Sales Manager
Dolcetto d’Alba Superiore, Gigi Bianco – 2018 $24.96
I’d like to dispel the theoretical adage that “what grows together goes together.” Obviously most stereotypes are true for a reason, but in the wine world I’m always a fan of pairing experiments and myth busting. Here are the results of my latest research: I recently went to an Austrian restaurant where the portions were huge and I drank beer with dinner. Needless to say boxes of food came home with me. I waffled between taking a wine from St. Emilion and this (delicious) Dolcetto to have with the leftovers. The earthy, velvety Dolcetto along with chicken paprika, spätzle and fried mushrooms did not disappoint. Maybe paprika isn’t too common in Piemonte, but I’d pair this with Austrian food anytime. – Bambi Ray, Sales Manager
Pelaverga “Basadone”, Castello di Verduno – 2021 $26.96
In the northernmost commune of Barolo, there are plantings of a truly magical grape called Pelaverga. Delicate and elegant, yet supremely aromatic, Pelaverga tantalizes the senses with a perfumed combination of juicy cherries, flowers, and spices. Smooth on the palate with ample acidity from the limestone soils, it is incredibly versatile with lighter fare (and for your next picnic)! – Amy Miller, Sales Manager
Prosecco, Casa Coste Piane – 2021 $27.96
This wine immediately shows a cloudy appearance and a golden hue. It shows delicate aromas of white flowers and fresh hay. Flavors of almond cake, lime, and a hint of vanilla will play on your palate. It’s a wine about subtlety and elegance. Serve with your favorite crudo. – Chung Park, Astor Wines & Spirits Consultant
Teroldego, Foradori – 2021 $31.96
Flavors of black fruit, dark berries, and citrus, are followed by chocolate and herbal notes in this wine. The Teroldego grape is related to Syrah and the similarities are noticeable, especially in the body. This wine can evolve in the bottle or be enjoyed young when the fruit aspect is more pronounced. – Andrea Fraccari, Astor Wines & Spirits Consultant