Ciao Tutti!
This weekend we will taste a new wine to our collection, the Montepulciano D’Abruzzo ($14.50, 13.5% ABV) from the Coste Di Brenta winery in Lanciano, Abruzzo. The colorful abstract label pays tribute to Abruzzo’s unique geography of the Apennine Mountains, three national parks and over thirty nature reserves that cover over two thirds of the its area; deep valleys, the Adriatic Sea, hilltop towns and castles dating from the medieval and Renaissance periods.
The importer for this wine, Williams Corner, has a reputation for seeking passionate artisan winemakers whose work is done in an environmentally conscious manner. Coste Di Brenta’s 17+ hectares organic farm is set high on a hill between the Majella Mountains and the Adriatic Sea. Founded in 2004, it is a family endeavor with Augusto Tano, his wife Anna Giovana Di Ludovico and their three children.
The property had been in Augusto’s family for many generations when Augusto and Giovanna became the managers and renovated the 17+ hectares of vineyards and the cellar. From the beginning, they were committed to organic viniculture. Abruzzo is a region known for estates with large productions; Costa Di Brenta stands out with their emphasis on production of small-batch, high quality wines.
Their 100% Montepulciano is a blend of cherries and mixed berries infused with soft earthy notes on the nose, lush fruit flavor, medium to full body, soft tannins with a long finish and a touch of acidity. Pair with Piazza’s pizza or pasta dishes hearty soups and stews.
Come join me for a taste on Friday from noon to 5:45; please note that special Saturday tasting hours are 11 to 2:30, as I am a member of the Easton Choral Arts Society and I must leave Piazza early for our Saturday concert.
Cin Cin!
Jenn
Piazza Italian Market is located in the Talbot Town Shopping Center at 218 N. Washington St., suite 23, in Easton, MD
Contributor Jennifer Martella has pursued dual careers in architecture and real estate since she moved to the Eastern Shore in 2004. She has reestablished her architectural practice for residential and commercial projects and is a real estate agent for Meredith Fine Properties. She especially enjoys using her architectural expertise to help buyers envision how they could modify a potential property. Her Italian heritage led her to Piazza Italian Market, where she hosts wine tastings every Friday and Saturday afternoons.
