Terra d'Oro Chenin Blanc Viognier 2018.
The Terra d’Oro 2018 Chenin Blanc and Viognier blend displays engaging aromas of honeydew melon, cantaloupe, grapefruit, pear and strawberry with hints of nectarines, orange blossom and tangerines. The nose gives way to a clean mid-palate with flavors of peaches and mango complemented by notes of quince and nectarine. Acid drives into a bright, crisp finish. This wine is lively, refreshing and well-balanced. For a delightful pairing, serve this wine with oysters on the half shell or with Asian cuisine.
Italian Americans: New Country, New Identity.
As the granddaughter of immigrants, I grew up in the shadow of stories not freely told – not fully understanding the suffering and sacrifices that came before. We were Americans, that was all we needed to know – that was all my grandparents wanted for us.
Struggling to assimilate in the New World while holding on to their traditions strengthened the primacy and power of the family. Putting food on the table for the family led to the creation of a new immigrant cuisine utilizing old favorite recipes with the addition of new locally available ingredients.
There is much to tell about the Italian American experience as we reflect on their contributions and accomplishments during Italian American Heritage Month. Although they endured years of discrimination, Italian immigrants proudly helped build the America we know today.
Not the least of their accomplishments was the creation of a new Italian-American cuisine that has become highly influential in the American diet. This week’s menu will feature “Italian” dishes that originated in the US, paired with a wine made in Sonoma, CA by the descendants of one of the original Italian wineries in the US.
Louis Martini, Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon 2017.
Our 2017 Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon is a fresh, fruit-driven wine. It offers a welcomingly round mouthfeel with ripe notes of blackberry, blueberry and red plum. Hints of cocoa and oak on the finish add a savory layer of complexity to this approachably smooth Cabernet.
Vino - Flavors of the Harvest.
There are few things that unite all Italians like the harvest of grapes. The decision of when is the right time to begin harvesting is determined by the ripeness of the grape and the state of the weather – usually in August for whites and September/October for the reds. This is the time for annual wine festivals, tours, and tastings in every grape growing region of Italy.
This week’s menu celebrates the grape and its juice both in the glass and in savory authentic recipes.
