Ciao Tutti!
This weekend at Piazza we will taste a light red that has become a customer favorite, the Montepulciano D’Abruzzo ($14.50, 13.5% ABV) from the Masseria Coste Di Brenta winery in Lanciano, Abruzzo. The colorful abstract label pays tribute to Abruzzo’s unique geography of the Apennine Mountains, three national parks and over thirty nature preserves that cover over two thirds of its area; deep valleys, the Adriatic Sea, hilltop towns and castles dating from the medieval and Renaissance periods. “Masseria” refers to a traditional southern/central Italian farmhouse estate, while “Brenta” honors an old wicker basket that workers used to carry harvested grapes out of the fields.
The importer for this wine, Williams Corner, has a reputation for seeking passionate artisan winemakers whose work is done in an environmentally conscious manner. Coste Di Brenta’s organic farm is set high on a hill between the Adriatic Sea and the Majella Mountains. Abruzzo has a rich and varied winemaking history stretching back thousands of years. Founded in 2004, Coste di Brenta continues this tradition. Winemaking is truly a family endeavor of Augusto Tano, his wife Anna Giovana Di Ludovico and their three children.
The property had been in Augusto’s family for many generations when Augusto and Giovanna became the managers and renovated the 17+ hectares of vineyards and the cellar. From the beginning, they were committed to organic viniculture. Abruzzo is a region known for estates with large productions; Costa Di Brenta stands out with their emphasis on production of small-batch, high quality wines.
Their 100% Montepulciano D-Abruzzo is produced from 100% Montepulciano grapes with a blend of cherries and mixed berries, infused with soft earthy notes on the nose, lush fruit flavor, light to medium body, soft tannins with a long finish and a touch of acidity. Pair with Accanto’s pizza (now available for carry out) or Piazza’s pasta dishes, hearty soups and stews.
Come join me for a taste on Friday from noon to 5:45 or Saturday from noon to 4:45.
Cin Cin!
Jenn
Piazza Italian Market is located in the Talbot Town Shopping Center at 218 N. Washington St., suite 23, in Easton, MD
