Cellar Raid Highlight: Veneto
Veneto, in northeastern Italy, intertwines history, culture & gastronomy to create an unforgettable tapestry. The region captivates with its diverse landscapes, from the breathtaking canals of Venice to the rolling vineyards that produce some of Italy’s most beloved wines.
Veneto produces Prosecco, the sparkling wine celebrated worldwide for its crisp, lively character. The region also crafts the rich and robust Amarone, a red wine made from dried grapes that offers deep, complex flavors. Additionally, Veneto delivers Soave, a fresh and zesty white wine, making the region a haven for wine enthusiasts.
Bin 135s - Soave Classico, Pieropan “La Rocca” 2021
La Rocca, a stunning expression of Soave Classico, showcases the Pieropan family’s expertise. Sourced from a single vineyard on Monte Rocchetta hill, the 2021 vintage highlights 100% Garganega, Soave’s signature grape. It bursts with a rich, layered profile of ripe stone fruits like peaches and apricots, enhanced by notes of almond, honey, and a touch of minerality. On the palate, it balances full-bodied richness with a creamy texture, blossoming in a long, elegant finish.
Pairings:
Prosciutto di Parma (aged 24 months)
Speck dell’Alto Adige
Pecorino Toscano
Taleggio
Antipasti Misti: Local Zucchini Ribbons with Mint & Pine Nuts, Grilled Eggplant with Calabrian Chilies & Oregano, Cucumbers in Vinegar & Shallots
Richfield Farm Zucchini Carpaccio with Capers, Shallots, Lemon, Chives, Taggiasche Olives, Parmigiano
Taglioni with Manila Clams, Garlic, Capers, White Wine Butter Sauce, Garden Oregano
Mezzaluna, Ravioli filled with Spinach & Ricotta, Roasted Sweet Peppers & Local Corn, Butter & Toasted Almonds
Pan Roasted Maryland Rockfish, Fresh Corn Polenta, Local Green Beans, Cipollini Onions, Crispy Saffron Risotto
Bin 288B - Amarone della Valpolicella Classico, Nicolis 2017
This remarkable red wine captures the elegance and power of Amarone, a style born in the Valpolicella region of Veneto. The 2017 vintage of Nicolis Amarone combines the traditional Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara grapes. Amarone stands out due to the appassimento process, where the grapes undergo several months of drying after harvest, concentrating their sugars and flavors. The result is a rich, full-bodied wine brimming with intense flavors. Expect a bouquet of dark cherries, plums, and dried figs, layered with notes of tobacco, leather, and sweet spices like cinnamon and clove. A subtle hint of chocolate and coffee adds even more depth to this extraordinary wine.
Pairings:
Prosciutto di San Daniele di Friuli
Bresaola Valtellinese
Parmigiano-Reggiano
Gnocchetti with Morel Mushrooms, Caprino Fonduta, Thyme
Braised Veal Shoulder, Creamy Polenta, Sweet Carrots, Local Green Beans, Cipollini Onions, Mustard Seed & Garlic Condimento
Grilled Magret of Duck with Grilled Peaches, Thyme Blackberries, Oyster Mushrooms, Red Sorrel
