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BlackTail: A Nostalgic Tribute to Havana

November 17, 2016

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Calling all Hemingway fans, BlackTail in New York City is an evocative new cocktail bar and restaurant at Pier A Harbor House in Battery Park.  This Cuban hot spot is brought to you by the dynamic duo of cocktails, Sean Muldoon & Jack McGarry, the team behind Dead Rabbit(Voted Best Bar in the World in 2016).  BlackTail is a tribute to old world Cuba, a throwback in time when Havana was bustling and glamorous.  BlackTail draws its name from the luxury black-tailed planes, that used to transport wealthy New Yorkers to Havana, Cuba in search of libations during the prohibition days.

Arriving at Pier A in Battery Park, a bouncer graciously escorted us into the foyer.  Admiring the 1920’s style light fixtures and vintage Cuban posters on the walls, we climbed the long stairway up to the lobby, as we distantly heard Cuban jazz music inviting us in.  Upon catching the first glimpse of the lobby bar, with its lush greenery and stain glass ceilings, I was immediately transported to balmy Havana.  The vibe was glitzy, old world Cuba.  The long wood-paneled bar was intoxicatingly elegant and lively.  Much a do was made to replicate the bar seating to resemble the cialis-generic.net stools at Ernest Hemingway’s favorite spot in Havana, El Floridita.  The bartenders and servers bring to life a festive vibe with their Guayaberas(Cuban inspired shirts) and straw Fedoras. We were immediately immersed  into a celebratory mood, when our server started us off with an amuse-bouche, a classic lime Daiquiri.wp-image-1958532568jpg.jpg

At BlackTail the ceremonious drinks are presented in a hard covered book, sorted into, cocktails, highballs, punches, old-fashioneds and sours.   The drinks are a contemporary interpretation of the classic prohibition era drinks.  Cuban Rum is the inspiration for many of the cocktails, most notably the daiquiris and mojitos.  BlackTail has concocted its own house blend of Rum made up of four different styles, Bacardí Heritage, Caña Brava, Barbancourt and Banks 5 Island Blend.  Not willing to gloss through the huge book(my mistake as I later learned it had so much history), I asked our server for the most classic drink on the menu.  He steered me towards a mojito style drink, The Mary Pickford, made with the house Cuban rum blend, cherry, pomegranate, lime, pineapple, and burlesque bitters, was sweet, tart and delicious.  For all you whiskey lovers, The Hugo Bracer is classic, made with a potion of Bourbon whiskey, apple brandy, aquavit, orange, pomegranate, lemon, and sriracha. There were so many more wonderful cocktails to explore, giving us plenty of reasons to come back.

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The drinks were the showstoppers, so let me not forget to tell you about the wonderful cuisine here as well.  The dinner menu is a fusion of Latin and American flavors.  For starters you must try the gulf shrimp, served on sugarcane skewers, with a mustard lime agave sauce, served over pineapples and jalapenos.  The ancho glazed chicken lollipops were delectable.  For the main course the crispy red snapper was bursting with flavors, as it was served over a bed of cuban rice, sofrito beans, chorizo and red peppers.  For those with an affection for tres leches, you will be delighted at BlackTail’s interpretation with whip cream, cinnamon and luxardo sour cherries.  It was not too sweet and was light and delicious.

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If you are in the mood to be whisked off to Cuba, no need to get on a plane, come to BlackTail for an immediate immersion into the nostalgic, bygone, carefree days of Havana, Cuba.  They don’t take reservations, so drop in before words gets out.

Black Tail
2nd Floor, Pier A House
Phentermine375
22 Battery Place
New York, NY 10004
212-785-0153

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Hi! I’m Rupal.
I am a lover of fine wines, great food and adventurous travels.

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Located in Gaiole in Chianti, Badia a Coltibuono i Located in Gaiole in Chianti, Badia a Coltibuono is an ancient place with a history that dates back to 1051.  Making it one of the oldest and most important wineries in Chianti Classico.  Badia a Coltibuono was established as an abbey (Badia) in 1051 by St. Giovanni Gualberto, the founder of the Vallumbrosan Order of Benedictine monks. Click on the link in my profile to read more about this historic winery. ⬆️⬆️

In 1846, Badia a Coltibuono was purchased by the Stucchi Prinetti family.  The Stucchi’s are considered pioneers of Chianti, having invested in this land since 1846.  Today Emanuela, Paolo, and Roberto Stucchi Prinetti are owners and managers of the property.

I had the opportunity to chat and taste with Roberto Stucchi, who has the honor of carrying on the legacy of this incredible 1000-year-old abbey.

Loved all the wines we tasted together but one that stood out was the Badia a Coltibuono Montebello 2015. It is a blend of nine of Chianti’s most important indigenous red varieties in equal parts, about 11% each of Canaiolo, Ciliegiolo, Colorino, Fogliatonda, Malvasia Nera, Mammolo, Pugnitello, Sanforte, and Sangiovese.  Each grape is harvested separately. This is a single vineyard wine that is defined by the blend.  Black fruits, spice, tobacco, and earthy notes coat the palate.  Showing great complexity, this wine is has a combination of elegance and personality.  An outstanding wine with only 3000 bottles produced.
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#badiaacoltibuono #wineoftheday #sommlife #winestudy  #vinoitaliano #italiansdoitbetter #italianwine #winemaker #italianwinelover #winewriter #wineblog #nycblogger #lifestyleblog #sangiovese #winetasting #instawine #winewriter #wineblog #travelmore  #wanderlust #winetravel  #luxurylifestyle  #italianvacation #winery #winecountry #chianticlassico  #wineinfluencer #wineoftheday #instawine
Last year I had the opportunity to travel to the g Last year I had the opportunity to travel to the glorious city of Verona for the Valpolicella Education Program and Anteprima Amarone.  It was an opportunity to explore and immerse myself in some of the world’s most delicious wines.  I had the opportunity to taste 54 Amarones from the glorious 2016 vintage at Anteprima Amarone. You will further hear the passion in my voice for Valpolicella wines, as I am officially the Ambassador for Valpolicella Wines.

This year due to the current international situation, the 2021 edition of Anteprima Amarone has been postponed to 2022. This led to a new format in which there will be the first totally digital and live event organized by the wine appellation, The Valpolicella Annual Conference will be held on February 26th and 27th 2021. I am thrilled to be attending and will report back on the wines, the 2017 vintage, their sustainability initiatives, and more.

One of my favorite discoveries is this Amarone Della Valpolicella from @secondomarco.winery 

This 2011 Secondo Marco Amarone della Valpolicella, is made by Marco Speri - the fifth generation of one of the most important winemaking families in Valpolicella. His father, Benedetto, perfected some of the first Amarones. In 2008, Marco created his own brand, Secondo Marco, to make wines according to his own vision.  On the palate, there are appealing notes of black cherries, currant, spice, herbs, and a touch of smokiness. The tannins are firm and the acidity is bright.  With 10 years of age, this wine is a prime example of how beautifully an Amarone can age.

Click on the link in my bio to read more about Amarone della Valpolicella. ⬆️⬆️
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#valpolicellaeducationcourse #anteprimaamarone #italianwinelover #italianwine #italiansdoitbest #italiansdoitbetter🇮🇹 #winelover #winetravel #winegeek #wineexperience #instawine #amarone #wineoftheday #amaronedellavalpolicella #sommelier #sommlife #wineinfluencer #winewriter #wineblogger #redwine #sommlife #sommelier #wineeducation #valpolicellawines #wineoftheday #instawine #winemaker
We have had crazy weather here in the northeast. I We have had crazy weather here in the northeast. I’ve lost count, but I think we have had six snow storms in the last two weeks. There is something about the cold and snow that makes me crave bubbles.  Anyone else have the same craving? 

Crémant d’Alsace wines are my choice of bubbles cause they are crisp, lean and structured - perfect for a crisp cold day. 

Crémant is the French term for traditional-method sparkling wines made outside Champagne. This means that the second fermentation, happens inside the bottle.  Followed by a minimum aging period of nine months on lees. Though many producers in Alsace go beyond this requirement. This maturation gives the wines their creamy texture. There are many strict guidelines in Alsace for producing the best quality Cremants. Won’t go into all the details, but just know Crémant d’Alsace are some of the highest quality bubbles you can enjoy. 

I have many favorites Crémant d’Alsace bubbly wines, but here are two I have enjoyed in this cold weather. 

Camille Braun Brut Crémant d’Alsace is stunning. Made from 70% Pinot Blanc, 30% Auxerrois, this fine bubbly has A beautiful mousse and is very persistent. The glass bursts with an expressive nose of fresh, floral aromas. The palate is discrete, a wine of great balance and finesse. Elegant, refreshing finish.

Domaine Joseph Cattin Crémant d’Alsace Brut Rosé is an elegant salmon pink color with abundant and dynamic bubbles. The nose is fruity, especially favoring red fruits such as cherry and black currants. Refreshing and creamy palate with fruity aromas such as strawberries and lemon. A clean and long-lasting finish. Delish. 🥂🍾🥂🍾
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#celebratefriendship #sundayfunday #bubbly #sparklingrosé #sparklingwine #frenchwine #alsacewine #celebration #luxurylifestyle #lifestyleblog #wineblog #winewriter #nycblogger #wineandfood #brut #foodandwine #winelovers #somm #sommlife #sundayvibes #wineinfluencer #wineenthusiast #vino #wineoftheday #cremantdalsace #instawine #winegeek
Stay warm with wine. This AUDAX from Calla Lily Wi Stay warm with wine. This AUDAX from Calla Lily Winery in Pope Valley is insanely good. ❤️🍷❤️🍷

Calla Lily Winery spans 95 acres in Pope Valley, just down the hill from Howell Mountain in the heart of Napa Valley.  With the help of Cary Gott, Cally Lily was founded by Anthony Fung and Andy Chui, two Hong Kong-based entrepreneurs. The goal is to produce artisanal, low-production, boutique wines.

It is no surprise that this wine is so good. It is made by a Cary Gott. Cary Gott is an icon in the wine industry.  He is a fourth-generation California winemaker who’s had a hand in more than twenty prominent wineries.

Calla Lily AUDAX Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2015 - 
AUDAX, meaning “bold” in Latin, is Calla Lily’s barrel-selection reserve wine made as a tribute to the pioneers of Napa Valley, many of whom settled in Pope Valley.  The bottle and packaging are luxurious and elegant.  This is a wine that needs to be enjoyed in a high-quality Bordeaux wine glass, for the best experience. AUDAX is a blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon; 4% Merlot; 3% Cabernet Franc, 1% Malbec and is energetic and vibrant.

There are quintessential notes of dark fruit, oak, chocolate, and dried flowers. There is a wonderful tension between the fruits and tannins.  The finish is rich, spicy, and seductive. This Napa Cabernet is extremely well-balanced and elegant. You can drink now, but the wine will continue to evolve in the bottle, making it a perfect wine to cellar.  There are only 134 cases produced.
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#napawine #napavalley #winewriter #winelover #napavalleywine #winestagram #wineoftheday #napacab #cabernetsauvignon #wineinfluencer #youcansipwithus #nycblogger #winewriter #wineoftheday #instawine #somm #sommelier #sommlife #winetravel #cabernetisking
This @cavesvilarnau Brut Reserva NV is made by a s This @cavesvilarnau Brut Reserva NV is made by a small artisanal winery. Vilarnau bottles honor their Catalan roots with this Antoni Gaudi inspired wrapping. 

The Vilarnau Brut Reserva has a complex nose of fruit and florals. Made in the traditional méthode champenoise with a blend of local grape varieties of Macabeo, Parellada, and Xarel-lo. The effervescent bubbles and delicate texture is sure to make any occasion memorable. 
.
.
.
.
.
.

#happyhour #wineries #winelovers #wino #wineblog #wineblogger #wineporn #winegeek #wineoftheday #winetasting  #spanishwine #cava #sparklingwine #wineinfluencer #wineoftheday #instawine #bubbly #winetravel #lifestyleblog #travelmore #travelblog #travelguide #winewithfriends #xarelo #macabeo #itsamazingoutthere
Valentine’s Day Rosé- Two Ways. Two beautiful R Valentine’s Day Rosé- Two Ways. Two beautiful Rosés in two distinct styles.  The 2019 Ponzi Pinot Noir Rosé is juicy and vibrant  grown on their beautiful site Aurora Vineyards, which is a cool site near the Pacific Coast Range. 

The 2016 Ponzi Sparkling Brut Rosé is 100% Pinot Noir, grown on their high elevation site with only 1700 bottles produced. 

I have always been a huge fan of @ponzivineyards They are a benchmark for American wines for more than 50 years. Ponzi Vineyards produces some of Willamette Valley’s most celebrated varieties, most notably Pinot Noir & Chardonnay. 

Be sure to grab this gift set for your Valentines. Link in my bio. 💕🥂🍾
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#pinotnoir #oregonwine #wine #winelife #winelover #wineinfluencer #winewriter #syrahqueen  #rosé #yeswayrosé #roséallday #roséseason #sommlife #sommelier #drinkpink  #instawine #wanderlust #wineblog #nycblogger #lifestyleblog #happyhour #wineoclock  #ilovewine #wineoftheday #womenwholovewine #valentinesdaywine #livingthegoodlife #picoftheday #wanderlust #wineoftheday
Located in Gaiole in Chianti, Badia a Coltibuono i Located in Gaiole in Chianti, Badia a Coltibuono is an ancient place with a history that dates back to 1051.  Making it one of the oldest and most important wineries in Chianti Classico.  Badia a Coltibuono was established as an abbey (Badia) in 1051 by St. Giovanni Gualberto, the founder of the Vallumbrosan Order of Benedictine monks. Click on the link in my profile to read more about this historic winery. ⬆️⬆️

In 1846, Badia a Coltibuono was purchased by the Stucchi Prinetti family.  The Stucchi’s are considered pioneers of Chianti, having invested in this land since 1846.  Today Emanuela, Paolo, and Roberto Stucchi Prinetti are owners and managers of the property.

I had the opportunity to chat and taste with Roberto Stucchi, who has the honor of carrying on the legacy of this incredible 1000-year-old abbey.

Loved all the wines we tasted together but one that stood out was the Badia a Coltibuono Montebello 2015. It is a blend of nine of Chianti’s most important indigenous red varieties in equal parts, about 11% each of Canaiolo, Ciliegiolo, Colorino, Fogliatonda, Malvasia Nera, Mammolo, Pugnitello, Sanforte, and Sangiovese.  Each grape is harvested separately. This is a single vineyard wine that is defined by the blend.  Black fruits, spice, tobacco, and earthy notes coat the palate.  Showing great complexity, this wine is has a combination of elegance and personality.  An outstanding wine with only 3000 bottles produced.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
#badiaacoltibuono #wineoftheday #sommlife #winestudy  #vinoitaliano #italiansdoitbetter #italianwine #winemaker #italianwinelover #winewriter #wineblog #nycblogger #lifestyleblog #sangiovese #winetasting #instawine #winewriter #wineblog #travelmore  #wanderlust #winetravel  #luxurylifestyle  #italianvacation #winery #winecountry #chianticlassico  #wineinfluencer #wineoftheday #instawine
Last year I had the opportunity to travel to the g Last year I had the opportunity to travel to the glorious city of Verona for the Valpolicella Education Program and Anteprima Amarone.  It was an opportunity to explore and immerse myself in some of the world’s most delicious wines.  I had the opportunity to taste 54 Amarones from the glorious 2016 vintage at Anteprima Amarone. You will further hear the passion in my voice for Valpolicella wines, as I am officially the Ambassador for Valpolicella Wines.

This year due to the current international situation, the 2021 edition of Anteprima Amarone has been postponed to 2022. This led to a new format in which there will be the first totally digital and live event organized by the wine appellation, The Valpolicella Annual Conference will be held on February 26th and 27th 2021. I am thrilled to be attending and will report back on the wines, the 2017 vintage, their sustainability initiatives, and more.

One of my favorite discoveries is this Amarone Della Valpolicella from @secondomarco.winery 

This 2011 Secondo Marco Amarone della Valpolicella, is made by Marco Speri - the fifth generation of one of the most important winemaking families in Valpolicella. His father, Benedetto, perfected some of the first Amarones. In 2008, Marco created his own brand, Secondo Marco, to make wines according to his own vision.  On the palate, there are appealing notes of black cherries, currant, spice, herbs, and a touch of smokiness. The tannins are firm and the acidity is bright.  With 10 years of age, this wine is a prime example of how beautifully an Amarone can age.

Click on the link in my bio to read more about Amarone della Valpolicella. ⬆️⬆️
.
.
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.
.
.
.

#valpolicellaeducationcourse #anteprimaamarone #italianwinelover #italianwine #italiansdoitbest #italiansdoitbetter🇮🇹 #winelover #winetravel #winegeek #wineexperience #instawine #amarone #wineoftheday #amaronedellavalpolicella #sommelier #sommlife #wineinfluencer #winewriter #wineblogger #redwine #sommlife #sommelier #wineeducation #valpolicellawines #wineoftheday #instawine #winemaker
We have had crazy weather here in the northeast. I We have had crazy weather here in the northeast. I’ve lost count, but I think we have had six snow storms in the last two weeks. There is something about the cold and snow that makes me crave bubbles.  Anyone else have the same craving? 

Crémant d’Alsace wines are my choice of bubbles cause they are crisp, lean and structured - perfect for a crisp cold day. 

Crémant is the French term for traditional-method sparkling wines made outside Champagne. This means that the second fermentation, happens inside the bottle.  Followed by a minimum aging period of nine months on lees. Though many producers in Alsace go beyond this requirement. This maturation gives the wines their creamy texture. There are many strict guidelines in Alsace for producing the best quality Cremants. Won’t go into all the details, but just know Crémant d’Alsace are some of the highest quality bubbles you can enjoy. 

I have many favorites Crémant d’Alsace bubbly wines, but here are two I have enjoyed in this cold weather. 

Camille Braun Brut Crémant d’Alsace is stunning. Made from 70% Pinot Blanc, 30% Auxerrois, this fine bubbly has A beautiful mousse and is very persistent. The glass bursts with an expressive nose of fresh, floral aromas. The palate is discrete, a wine of great balance and finesse. Elegant, refreshing finish.

Domaine Joseph Cattin Crémant d’Alsace Brut Rosé is an elegant salmon pink color with abundant and dynamic bubbles. The nose is fruity, especially favoring red fruits such as cherry and black currants. Refreshing and creamy palate with fruity aromas such as strawberries and lemon. A clean and long-lasting finish. Delish. 🥂🍾🥂🍾
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.

#celebratefriendship #sundayfunday #bubbly #sparklingrosé #sparklingwine #frenchwine #alsacewine #celebration #luxurylifestyle #lifestyleblog #wineblog #winewriter #nycblogger #wineandfood #brut #foodandwine #winelovers #somm #sommlife #sundayvibes #wineinfluencer #wineenthusiast #vino #wineoftheday #cremantdalsace #instawine #winegeek
Stay warm with wine. This AUDAX from Calla Lily Wi Stay warm with wine. This AUDAX from Calla Lily Winery in Pope Valley is insanely good. ❤️🍷❤️🍷

Calla Lily Winery spans 95 acres in Pope Valley, just down the hill from Howell Mountain in the heart of Napa Valley.  With the help of Cary Gott, Cally Lily was founded by Anthony Fung and Andy Chui, two Hong Kong-based entrepreneurs. The goal is to produce artisanal, low-production, boutique wines.

It is no surprise that this wine is so good. It is made by a Cary Gott. Cary Gott is an icon in the wine industry.  He is a fourth-generation California winemaker who’s had a hand in more than twenty prominent wineries.

Calla Lily AUDAX Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2015 - 
AUDAX, meaning “bold” in Latin, is Calla Lily’s barrel-selection reserve wine made as a tribute to the pioneers of Napa Valley, many of whom settled in Pope Valley.  The bottle and packaging are luxurious and elegant.  This is a wine that needs to be enjoyed in a high-quality Bordeaux wine glass, for the best experience. AUDAX is a blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon; 4% Merlot; 3% Cabernet Franc, 1% Malbec and is energetic and vibrant.

There are quintessential notes of dark fruit, oak, chocolate, and dried flowers. There is a wonderful tension between the fruits and tannins.  The finish is rich, spicy, and seductive. This Napa Cabernet is extremely well-balanced and elegant. You can drink now, but the wine will continue to evolve in the bottle, making it a perfect wine to cellar.  There are only 134 cases produced.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.

#napawine #napavalley #winewriter #winelover #napavalleywine #winestagram #wineoftheday #napacab #cabernetsauvignon #wineinfluencer #youcansipwithus #nycblogger #winewriter #wineoftheday #instawine #somm #sommelier #sommlife #winetravel #cabernetisking
This @cavesvilarnau Brut Reserva NV is made by a s This @cavesvilarnau Brut Reserva NV is made by a small artisanal winery. Vilarnau bottles honor their Catalan roots with this Antoni Gaudi inspired wrapping. 

The Vilarnau Brut Reserva has a complex nose of fruit and florals. Made in the traditional méthode champenoise with a blend of local grape varieties of Macabeo, Parellada, and Xarel-lo. The effervescent bubbles and delicate texture is sure to make any occasion memorable. 
.
.
.
.
.
.

#happyhour #wineries #winelovers #wino #wineblog #wineblogger #wineporn #winegeek #wineoftheday #winetasting  #spanishwine #cava #sparklingwine #wineinfluencer #wineoftheday #instawine #bubbly #winetravel #lifestyleblog #travelmore #travelblog #travelguide #winewithfriends #xarelo #macabeo #itsamazingoutthere
Valentine’s Day Rosé- Two Ways. Two beautiful R Valentine’s Day Rosé- Two Ways. Two beautiful Rosés in two distinct styles.  The 2019 Ponzi Pinot Noir Rosé is juicy and vibrant  grown on their beautiful site Aurora Vineyards, which is a cool site near the Pacific Coast Range. 

The 2016 Ponzi Sparkling Brut Rosé is 100% Pinot Noir, grown on their high elevation site with only 1700 bottles produced. 

I have always been a huge fan of @ponzivineyards They are a benchmark for American wines for more than 50 years. Ponzi Vineyards produces some of Willamette Valley’s most celebrated varieties, most notably Pinot Noir & Chardonnay. 

Be sure to grab this gift set for your Valentines. Link in my bio. 💕🥂🍾
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.

#pinotnoir #oregonwine #wine #winelife #winelover #wineinfluencer #winewriter #syrahqueen  #rosé #yeswayrosé #roséallday #roséseason #sommlife #sommelier #drinkpink  #instawine #wanderlust #wineblog #nycblogger #lifestyleblog #happyhour #wineoclock  #ilovewine #wineoftheday #womenwholovewine #valentinesdaywine #livingthegoodlife #picoftheday #wanderlust #wineoftheday
Located in Gaiole in Chianti, Badia a Coltibuono i Located in Gaiole in Chianti, Badia a Coltibuono is an ancient place with a history that dates back to 1051.  Making it one of the oldest and most important wineries in Chianti Classico.  Badia a Coltibuono was established as an abbey (Badia) in 1051 by St. Giovanni Gualberto, the founder of the Vallumbrosan Order of Benedictine monks. Click on the link in my profile to read more about this historic winery. ⬆️⬆️

In 1846, Badia a Coltibuono was purchased by the Stucchi Prinetti family.  The Stucchi’s are considered pioneers of Chianti, having invested in this land since 1846.  Today Emanuela, Paolo, and Roberto Stucchi Prinetti are owners and managers of the property.

I had the opportunity to chat and taste with Roberto Stucchi, who has the honor of carrying on the legacy of this incredible 1000-year-old abbey.

Loved all the wines we tasted together but one that stood out was the Badia a Coltibuono Montebello 2015. It is a blend of nine of Chianti’s most important indigenous red varieties in equal parts, about 11% each of Canaiolo, Ciliegiolo, Colorino, Fogliatonda, Malvasia Nera, Mammolo, Pugnitello, Sanforte, and Sangiovese.  Each grape is harvested separately. This is a single vineyard wine that is defined by the blend.  Black fruits, spice, tobacco, and earthy notes coat the palate.  Showing great complexity, this wine is has a combination of elegance and personality.  An outstanding wine with only 3000 bottles produced.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
#badiaacoltibuono #wineoftheday #sommlife #winestudy  #vinoitaliano #italiansdoitbetter #italianwine #winemaker #italianwinelover #winewriter #wineblog #nycblogger #lifestyleblog #sangiovese #winetasting #instawine #winewriter #wineblog #travelmore  #wanderlust #winetravel  #luxurylifestyle  #italianvacation #winery #winecountry #chianticlassico  #wineinfluencer #wineoftheday #instawine
Last year I had the opportunity to travel to the g Last year I had the opportunity to travel to the glorious city of Verona for the Valpolicella Education Program and Anteprima Amarone.  It was an opportunity to explore and immerse myself in some of the world’s most delicious wines.  I had the opportunity to taste 54 Amarones from the glorious 2016 vintage at Anteprima Amarone. You will further hear the passion in my voice for Valpolicella wines, as I am officially the Ambassador for Valpolicella Wines.

This year due to the current international situation, the 2021 edition of Anteprima Amarone has been postponed to 2022. This led to a new format in which there will be the first totally digital and live event organized by the wine appellation, The Valpolicella Annual Conference will be held on February 26th and 27th 2021. I am thrilled to be attending and will report back on the wines, the 2017 vintage, their sustainability initiatives, and more.

One of my favorite discoveries is this Amarone Della Valpolicella from @secondomarco.winery 

This 2011 Secondo Marco Amarone della Valpolicella, is made by Marco Speri - the fifth generation of one of the most important winemaking families in Valpolicella. His father, Benedetto, perfected some of the first Amarones. In 2008, Marco created his own brand, Secondo Marco, to make wines according to his own vision.  On the palate, there are appealing notes of black cherries, currant, spice, herbs, and a touch of smokiness. The tannins are firm and the acidity is bright.  With 10 years of age, this wine is a prime example of how beautifully an Amarone can age.

Click on the link in my bio to read more about Amarone della Valpolicella. ⬆️⬆️
.
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.
.
.

#valpolicellaeducationcourse #anteprimaamarone #italianwinelover #italianwine #italiansdoitbest #italiansdoitbetter🇮🇹 #winelover #winetravel #winegeek #wineexperience #instawine #amarone #wineoftheday #amaronedellavalpolicella #sommelier #sommlife #wineinfluencer #winewriter #wineblogger #redwine #sommlife #sommelier #wineeducation #valpolicellawines #wineoftheday #instawine #winemaker
We have had crazy weather here in the northeast. I We have had crazy weather here in the northeast. I’ve lost count, but I think we have had six snow storms in the last two weeks. There is something about the cold and snow that makes me crave bubbles.  Anyone else have the same craving? 

Crémant d’Alsace wines are my choice of bubbles cause they are crisp, lean and structured - perfect for a crisp cold day. 

Crémant is the French term for traditional-method sparkling wines made outside Champagne. This means that the second fermentation, happens inside the bottle.  Followed by a minimum aging period of nine months on lees. Though many producers in Alsace go beyond this requirement. This maturation gives the wines their creamy texture. There are many strict guidelines in Alsace for producing the best quality Cremants. Won’t go into all the details, but just know Crémant d’Alsace are some of the highest quality bubbles you can enjoy. 

I have many favorites Crémant d’Alsace bubbly wines, but here are two I have enjoyed in this cold weather. 

Camille Braun Brut Crémant d’Alsace is stunning. Made from 70% Pinot Blanc, 30% Auxerrois, this fine bubbly has A beautiful mousse and is very persistent. The glass bursts with an expressive nose of fresh, floral aromas. The palate is discrete, a wine of great balance and finesse. Elegant, refreshing finish.

Domaine Joseph Cattin Crémant d’Alsace Brut Rosé is an elegant salmon pink color with abundant and dynamic bubbles. The nose is fruity, especially favoring red fruits such as cherry and black currants. Refreshing and creamy palate with fruity aromas such as strawberries and lemon. A clean and long-lasting finish. Delish. 🥂🍾🥂🍾
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#celebratefriendship #sundayfunday #bubbly #sparklingrosé #sparklingwine #frenchwine #alsacewine #celebration #luxurylifestyle #lifestyleblog #wineblog #winewriter #nycblogger #wineandfood #brut #foodandwine #winelovers #somm #sommlife #sundayvibes #wineinfluencer #wineenthusiast #vino #wineoftheday #cremantdalsace #instawine #winegeek
Stay warm with wine. This AUDAX from Calla Lily Wi Stay warm with wine. This AUDAX from Calla Lily Winery in Pope Valley is insanely good. ❤️🍷❤️🍷

Calla Lily Winery spans 95 acres in Pope Valley, just down the hill from Howell Mountain in the heart of Napa Valley.  With the help of Cary Gott, Cally Lily was founded by Anthony Fung and Andy Chui, two Hong Kong-based entrepreneurs. The goal is to produce artisanal, low-production, boutique wines.

It is no surprise that this wine is so good. It is made by a Cary Gott. Cary Gott is an icon in the wine industry.  He is a fourth-generation California winemaker who’s had a hand in more than twenty prominent wineries.

Calla Lily AUDAX Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2015 - 
AUDAX, meaning “bold” in Latin, is Calla Lily’s barrel-selection reserve wine made as a tribute to the pioneers of Napa Valley, many of whom settled in Pope Valley.  The bottle and packaging are luxurious and elegant.  This is a wine that needs to be enjoyed in a high-quality Bordeaux wine glass, for the best experience. AUDAX is a blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon; 4% Merlot; 3% Cabernet Franc, 1% Malbec and is energetic and vibrant.

There are quintessential notes of dark fruit, oak, chocolate, and dried flowers. There is a wonderful tension between the fruits and tannins.  The finish is rich, spicy, and seductive. This Napa Cabernet is extremely well-balanced and elegant. You can drink now, but the wine will continue to evolve in the bottle, making it a perfect wine to cellar.  There are only 134 cases produced.
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#napawine #napavalley #winewriter #winelover #napavalleywine #winestagram #wineoftheday #napacab #cabernetsauvignon #wineinfluencer #youcansipwithus #nycblogger #winewriter #wineoftheday #instawine #somm #sommelier #sommlife #winetravel #cabernetisking
This @cavesvilarnau Brut Reserva NV is made by a s This @cavesvilarnau Brut Reserva NV is made by a small artisanal winery. Vilarnau bottles honor their Catalan roots with this Antoni Gaudi inspired wrapping. 

The Vilarnau Brut Reserva has a complex nose of fruit and florals. Made in the traditional méthode champenoise with a blend of local grape varieties of Macabeo, Parellada, and Xarel-lo. The effervescent bubbles and delicate texture is sure to make any occasion memorable. 
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Valentine’s Day Rosé- Two Ways. Two beautiful R Valentine’s Day Rosé- Two Ways. Two beautiful Rosés in two distinct styles.  The 2019 Ponzi Pinot Noir Rosé is juicy and vibrant  grown on their beautiful site Aurora Vineyards, which is a cool site near the Pacific Coast Range. 

The 2016 Ponzi Sparkling Brut Rosé is 100% Pinot Noir, grown on their high elevation site with only 1700 bottles produced. 

I have always been a huge fan of @ponzivineyards They are a benchmark for American wines for more than 50 years. Ponzi Vineyards produces some of Willamette Valley’s most celebrated varieties, most notably Pinot Noir & Chardonnay. 

Be sure to grab this gift set for your Valentines. Link in my bio. 💕🥂🍾
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