2006 Tenuta Delle Terre Nere, Etna Rosso, Sicily

Derek Swanson — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 16:22:35 +0000

This week’s pick comes from Jason Wagner, sommelier at L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon in New York: ”This beautiful wine from Sicily is made from indigenous varietals (Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio). It is medium to light in body with intoxicating aromas of roses, tea, wet leaves, and bright red cherries and raspberries. It reminds me in some ways of something from the Cote d’Or or from Gattinara because of it’s lively acidity and extreme aromatics. And, like a nice red Burgundy, it goes well with a wide range of foods. This is definitely a wine that changes people’s perceptions of what Sicilian wine is. I highly reccomend the Calderara Sottana single vineyard bottling (especially 2006), though the Guardiola single vineyard wine is great as well and exhibits more bright red fruits. As an easier to find, everyday kind of purchase, the Etna Rosso is a wonderful value and a serious, but fun wine.”

L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon is located at the Four Seasons Hotel on East 57th St. Chef Robuchon focuses on the highest-quality ingredients, prepared with clockwork precision and abundant creativity. His casual French style shows a strong affection for Asian cuisine, with its simplicity of presentation, pure and flavourful sauces, and concentration on single, perfect ingredients. His dishes in New York are executed by Executive Chef Xavier Boyer.

Wine lovers can also stop by the just-opened Garden at the Four Seasons, where they offer over 200 wines by the glass.

Check Wine-Searcher for a retailer near you.

2008 Cottanera Barbazelle, Sicily

Derek Swanson — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 14:38:30 +0000

This week’s pick comes from the award-winning sommelier Jake Kosseff of Seattle: “Every once and a while, everyone needs to try something completely different. This white wine, made from the Insolia grape, found almost exclusively in Sicily, is fitting reward to taking a chance on the unknown: not only is it delicious, but it’s about the best deal you’ll find this summer. Cottanera’s vineyard is located high on the volcanic slopes of Mt. Etna, and this wine shows the kind of character that only comes from very special places. The aromas and flavors exhibit an almost supernatural intensity of zingy peach and lime fruit, and a gorgeous, balanced richness that is full without being heavy. For $17, it’s hard to think of a food, or an occasion, that this wine wouldn’t go well with.”

Jake Kosseff has designed and influenced the best wine programs in Seattle, including those of Crush and Campagne. He won the Chaine des Rotisseurs “Best Young Sommelier in America” award in 2006, and was named “Best Sommelier” in 2007 by Seattle Magazine. Jake’s latest venture is the Extraordinary Wine Club, an exclusive opportunity for members to take advantage of Jake’s expertise in selecting exceptional wines from all over the world. Information on membership can be found at the club website.

WeeklyWinePick.com » Sicily

2006 Tenuta Delle Terre Nere, Etna Rosso, Sicily

2008 Cottanera Barbazelle, Sicily