Friday Sips

2016 SCARPETTA FRIULANO 'FRISCO'
$11.99 BTL./$143.88 CASE

Extremely passionate about Italy, especially Friuli, Bobby Stuckey is a Master Sommelier who was formerly at the French Laundry, along with his partner Lachlan Patterson now own, and operate Frasca in Colorado created the Scarpetta wines in the mid-2000s. Friuli is the specialty with Sciaretta but they don’t limit themselves to just this region (see following two wines).

Friuli is white wine territory and from this small parcel of land, the wines really impress. The 2016 Scarpetta Friulano (the grape formerly known as Tocai Friulano) shares gentle herbs with pronounce minerality and a palate that is nimble, gleaming and savory. Good density makes for a long and silky finish. Try with Proscuitto di San Daniele; a classic match...It also pairs well with green veggies or grilled shrimp.

2015 SCARPETTA
BARBERA DEL MONFERRATO
$16.99 BTL./$203.88 CASE

Hailing from Piedmont’s Monferrato area that is the birthplace of Barbera, the guys collaborated with Fabrizio Iulli to make this fresh and food frienhdly version that isn’t interfered with by any new oak tones.

Fermented in inox then elevated in neutral barrels and cement tanks, this Barbera is absolutely lovable. A lively, easy-drinking Barbera with vibrant aromas of brambly berry, violet, dusty earth and a hint of mushroom. Vivacious with a zippy texture and a lingering classic kirsch finish make it a terrific choice with antipasti, pappardelle with a Bolognese sauce or pizza.

SCARPETTA PROSECCO BRUT
$13.99 BTL./$167.88 CASE

Something quite exciting is this bubbly that comes from the newest DOC region for Prosecco, Grave del Friuli. This Prosecco is a throwback to the Prosecco of our youth that is light, lifting and screaming for you to finish the entire bottle.

Apple blossom and lively citrus carry over into a texture that is fresh and captivating. Have this for just about any occasion with friends over hors d'oeuvres or just by itself…and the best bit about this jumping grape is its unbelievable price. Drink now, drink often and most of all, drink lots!

2015 SCARPETTA SAUVIGNON BLANC
COLLI ORIENTALI DEL FRIULI
$34.99 BTL./$209.94 - SIX PACK

Step it up to the big boy region of Friuli and with a grape that thrives so well. Sourced from the Rozzano Hills and Corno Rossazo, these are the finest areas for Sauvignon Blanc in Friuli’s famed Colli Orientali region and this wine competes with the world’s finest.

Chock full of complex aromas from honeysuckle to white pepper, lime, grapefruit, white peach, fresh pine and crisp granny smith apple. A level of natural acidity here that brings out multi-faceted complexity maintaining vibrancy and a beautifully textured mouth-feel. Pair with an array of seafood, but have fun with this wine because it will compliment many different types of food and hold up to spicy dishes beautifully.

2015 SCARPETTA CABERNET FRANC
COLLI ORIENTALI DEL FRIULI
$39.99 BTL./$239.94 - SIX PACK

Bordeaux varietals emerged in this region during Napoleon’s time in the region, hence the reason they thrive so well. Don’t be fooled, these wines made take the personality of the region versus trying to mimic Bordeaux, Napa or any other area that grows Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.

Cab Franc from Friuli might not be for everyone, as it is certainly not a lollipop wine. Yet for those that love aromatic, elegant wines it is not to be missed. Classic nose of baked cherry, sandalwood, jasmine, and spicy herb notes. Pure red cherry, and mineral assault the palate, with great intensity, yet texture wise more akin to the finesse of a fine Chinon or Burgundy. A long, complex and delicious finish keeps you coming back for another glass. Such an amazingly versatile food wine, this would work with a wide variety of cuisines from rillettes to beef curry dishes to your favorite lamb stew. Very good and very ageworthy indeed.