what we are drinking today...

While it is not everyday that one gets to taste the idiosyncratic wines of Josko Gravner, and if you have an aversion to aged white wine then these would probably be no more than a novelty. I will have to say that a 2000 Ribolla Gialla proved to be more than satisfying the other night. Intense nose of something like butterscotch and salted nuts, if that makes sense, concentrated although on the ripe side, mild acidity and long persistent finish. Not an everyday experience, and maybe it is best that way, but definitely a treat.

Some other wines enjoyed this week...



Elvio Cogno ~ 'Anas Cetta', Piemonte '06
Seemingly native to the Novello region, the aromatic white Nascetta grape has a somewhat 'shy' nose, but is expressive and expansive on the palate. Flavors of citrus mingle with wild flowers, herbs and white pepper.


Les Cretes ~ 'Torrette' Petite Rouge, Val D'Aosta '05
From the far Northwest corner of Italy, Torrette is a bright, fruit-filled, medium-bodied, Beaujolais-like red with a bit of earth, game, herb spice and flowers. Wonderful.



De Cinciliis ~ 'Naima' Aglianico '03
As a powerful, racy Southern Italian red should be! This Aglianico is intense, structured and clean with black cherry, plum, balsamic and a hint of licorice held together with firm tannins and oak.