Leonardo Bussoletti ‘Brecciaro’ Ciliegiolo di Narni. “Leonardo Bussoletti spent years selling some of the great wines of the world, falling in love with Burgundy in the process. His eventual idea was to go back to his hometown of Narni in southern Umbria to produce his own local grape that would most resemble Pinot Noir. He had always believed that the local Ciliegiolo was often misunderstood, if not misused entirely, simply as a blending partner of Sangiovese or the base of some coastal rose wines. Understanding the history (wines of Ciliegiolo date back to the 1200s) and its potential to produce really gorgeous lighter reds, he dedicated himself to the research and revival of his local Ciliegiolo. He, along with a few friends and professors at the University of Milan, researched and studied particular clones of the grape, versions of Ciliegiolo that have thicker skins and could produce wines with greater structure and depth. Leo achieved just that, reigniting his local area to take pride in their local grape rather than get lost in the sea of Sangiovese production that surrounds Umbria.” – James Mucci.

What to expect – This 100% Ciliegiolo comes from soil filled with breccia stone, and 30% of the wine will see time in larger French barrel. The wine leads with crunchy red berries, herbs, and an almost smoked cherry-cola like aroma. Lighter in body, but Leo achieves great balance in a grape not known for such!

Located in the upper part of the Rhine, Baden is the third-largest wine producing region in Germany. Shielded by the Black Forest and the Oden Forest, its sunny climate lends more ripeness and natural sugar to the grapes. The 16000 hectares of vineyards are arranged in a L-shape and are composed of nine subregions, each of which expresses unique soil and climate differences.

OK, enough about geography! I want to talk to you about the grape that I have always been enamored with: Chasselas/Gutedel. Generally grown in Switzerland, France, Germany, and Portugal, this grape is rarely see here in the US. The moment I heard my friends were representing a producer who focuses on this varietal, I brought it to the shop right away. Especially once I learned about the producer himself, his farming methods, and the philosophy of his work. Thomas Harteneck has been practicing Biodynamic farming for over 25 years under the Demeter umbrella. He has curiosity and respect for how humans, animals, and the overall environment interact in a reciprocal partnership. What I most admire about his thinking is that this synergy doesn’t stop with farming style but continues well beyond the vineyard walls.

What to expect: “Noble – harmonious – lively! Soft yellow color in the glass, the scent is characterized by pear and elderflower and is underlined by a light yeast aroma. Fruity on the palate, harmonious and mild in acidity. Very drinkable, leaves you wanting more.”