Pairings for September
Wine Selections from France44
Surrau 'Limizzani' Vermentino di Gallura
Located in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, Sardinia is Italy’s second largest island. It is most well-known for its production of Vermentino and Cannonau (a local name for Grenache). The region of Gallura is situated on the northeastern corner of the island and produces the island’s most prestigious wine, Vermentino di Gallura. The Limizzani Vermentino is sourced from the winery’s estate vineyards and is an excellent example of the pure and fresh style of Vermentino that Gallura is known for. With notes of melon, tropical citrus, and honeysuckle, this wine is a delight with seafood of all kinds, but it will be delightful with the crab pasta.
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Tsiakkas 'Rodinos' Rosé
Founded in the 1980s, this small family-run winery on the island of Cyprus makes wine from both international and local varietals with a focus on organic farming and biodiversity. Their vineyards are planted on steep mountain hillsides with elevations as high as 1500 meters. Their rosé is made mostly from Grenache and Syrah, with small amounts of Vamvakada and Xynisteri (local grape varieties) added as well. It is bursting with red fruit notes of strawberry, pomegranate and cherry complemented by aromas of rose and nectarine. This will drink perfectly with all dishes in the apéro and would be lovely with the tuna crudo as well.
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Mas de Valériole "Vé" Rosé
Who doesn't love a crisp and refreshing glass of rosé in the middle of summer? Located in the heart of Camargue Regional Park in Provence, this small family-run winery is entering its 3rd generation- not only specializing in wine, but also the production of rice, wheat, and sunflowers. This rosé is made from Caladoc (a cross between Malbec and Grenache) and Merlot. It is a pale pink color, with pleasant aromatics of red fruits, white flowers, and citrus. There is a subtle note of salinity and refreshing acidity allowing this to pair well with both the apero and the main dish.
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Tenuta Tascante 'Ghiaia Nera' Etna Rosso
The tallest and most active volcano in Europe rises from the eastern coast of the island of Sicily. The fertile volcanic soil here is home to a diverse range of agriculture, including the refined wines of the Etna DOC. This example from Tenuta Tascante pays homage to the “black gravel” (Italian: “Ghiaia Nera”) volcanic soils covering the vineyard. Subtle aromas of orange peel, cherries, and dried flowers follow through to a medium body, fine tannins and a refined, luxurious finish. Serve this wine with a nice chill on it, and it should be a delight during any and all parts of the meal.
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Domaine Leccia Patrimonio Blanc
Consistency is key for sixth-generation winemaker Yves Leccia, who year after year bottles some of the most chiseled, sumptuous Corsican whites with Burgundy-like precision. His Patrimonio blanc, from the stony E Croce plateau, is bright and luminous, with hints of white grapefruit, acacia flowers, and fragrant maquis herbs. You’ll taste the salty sea breeze in this wine, a perfect pairing with white beans, seadas and tuna crudo.
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Argiolas Is Argiolas
Tropical fruit profile that reflects longer ripening on the vine. Aromas and flavors of fully ripe apricots and peaches are accented by notes of melon, almond, and honey. Bright acidity provides succulence on the palate to an otherwise richer expression of Vermentino from Sardinia.The richness of Is Argiolas calls for richer flavors on the table. The ample weight and texture of Is Argiolas also make it an easy match for Crab Tagliatelle.
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L.N. Mattei Cap Corse Quinquina
Founded by a merchant named Louis-Napoléon Mattei in 1872. The company is still family owned and operated today, staying true to his original recipes and traditions. This delicious wine has a base of Corsica’s most famous grapes: vermentinu and muscat petit grains, lending terrific minerality and floral tones to accompany the spice and depth of the quinine. It is aged for several months in large oak casks adding even more complexity. It is typically served neat or on ice with a splash of tonic or soda with citrus peel, and is a perfect aperitif or paired with the Corsican Cheesecake.
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