We love this business for a few key reasons, one being the diversity of wines we are fortunate to enjoy on a daily basis. Often, we find our palates stretched in new ways as unique varietals and blends are brought to us by our faithful purveyors. This month, Luci Ancora & Ristorante Luci will showcase three wines – we’re changing things up a bit to kick off the Fall Season.
Berlucchi ’61 Cuvee Brut $9/glass | $45/bottle
The first wine, Berlucchi ’61 Francicorte Brut, comes to us from the Francicorta Area of Lombardy, Italy. DOCG bottled on site near Borgonato, Brescia, this wine utilizes the Metodoro Classico method of fermentation. A bit less expensive than the traditional champagne method, but allows for full expression of this 75% Chardonnay / 25% Pinot Noir Blend which offers white fruit, hints of spice, and tropical notes alongside balanced acidity. We love it with Luci’s Spaghetti Carbonara or as a starting wine with Tempura Vegetables aka Fritto Misto at Luci Ancora.
From Berlucchi
” Berlucchi’s Cuvee 61 celebrates the magical decade of the sixties. in Milan, it was a time of optimism, experimentation and designers, artists and chefs.Cuvee 61 encapsulates all of that creative spirit which continues with today’s fashion and style.”
Maybe that’s another reason we love this wine – it possesses the same embodiment of the 1960’s that established the Smith Family traditions that Luci Restaurants reference today. Offered at $9/glass $45/bottle through September 2014.
Zyme “From Black to White” Bianco 2012 $9/ glass | $42/bottle
September is the month for transitions – new routines, sweater weather, and crisp autumn stolls with crisp leaves beneath your feet. With this in mind, we selected Zyme‘s Rondiella Blend. “From Black to White” symbolizes the fortunate discovery of a black Rondinella vine growing in the vineyard which produced white tinged grapes. Typically a black grape varietal, this Rondinella offered a unique viticulture opportunity. Through the patient task of selectively breeding the vine, the grapes were further refined to a fully white grape, thus the name “From Black to White.” In a similar way, the change in seasons brings something new and unexpected.
On the palate, this bianco remains full and complex with rare viscous texture, an expansive bouquet offering mint, herbs, and citrus complements in the nose while remaining nearly endless through the finish. In the Luci Kitchen, we enjoy serving Zyme Bianco with herbaceous dishes including Caprese, Pesce del Giorno, and Asparagus Antipasti. Offered at $9/glass | $42/bottle through September 2014.
Santa Anastasia “Passomaggio” Nero D’Avola Blend 2010 $10/glass | $50/bottle
Our third wine for September comes from the South. Santa Anastasia “Passamaggio” has been a long time favorite at the Luci Restaurants. Known for its rocky terrain, the island of Sicily is a prime growing area as its geography offers warm days and cool evenings which aid in the gentle ripening of the grapes which in turn allow for character development. In addition to the climate, the rocky soils add dimension to the wines produced here.
Passomaggio is comprised primarily of the indigenous varietal Nero D’Avola at 70% but also allows for 30% noble Merlot to be added to the blend. We love this wine for its richness and weight, making it a beautiful food wine most notably in its layers. Offering spice, licorice, and red fruit, Passomaggio’s tannins and red fruit freshness are maintained through barrel fermentation. Best with medium to fuller flavored dishes especially grilled, red meats, and aged cheeses. We recommend with Manzo ai Ferri, Pollo Brasato, and Maiale Arrosto. Offered at $10/glass | $50/bottle through September 2014.
Cin – Cin !
Reward Your Palate wines are also available for retail purchase through Thomas Liquors
located at Grand & Prior Ave in Saint Paul, MN.
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