Fine Wine
Rizzi Barbaresco DOCG “Pajoré” 2020
About: The 2020 Rizzi Barbaresco “Pajoré” is a captivating expression of Nebbiolo from one of Barbaresco’s most revered crus. Sourced from the prized Pajoré vineyard, this wine showcases the grace and power that define great Barbaresco, with its intricate aromatics, refined tannins, and elegant structure. Aged to perfection, it reflects the essence of Piedmont’s noble terroir and the timeless allure of Nebbiolo.
Producer: Rizzi is a family-owned estate located in the heart of Barbaresco, with a history dating back to 1974. Led by the Dellapiana family, the winery has established itself as a beacon of tradition and quality in Piedmont. The Pajoré vineyard, one of their crown jewels, benefits from south-facing slopes, limestone-rich soils, and a privileged microclimate, all of which contribute to the vineyard’s reputation as one of the region’s most prestigious sites. Rizzi combines traditional winemaking techniques with meticulous care in the vineyard, ensuring their wines are authentic, balanced, and terroir-driven.
Notes: This Barbaresco greets the senses with an aromatic bouquet of dried roses, red cherries, and raspberries, interwoven with earthy nuances of truffle, tobacco, and a hint of licorice. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied, with firm yet fine-grained tannins and vibrant acidity. Flavors of tart red berries, cranberry, and subtle spices unfold, leading to a long, complex finish accented by notes of leather and savory herbs.
Food Pairing: The 2020 Pajoré pairs beautifully with traditional Piedmontese dishes like tajarin with white truffle or braised beef in Barolo sauce. Its tannic structure and acidity also complement roasted lamb, duck, or aged cheeses such as Parmigiano-Reggiano or Taleggio. The wine’s earthy depth enhances mushroom risotto or polenta with wild boar ragu, creating a truly memorable dining experience.
Viña Sastre “Pago de Santa Cruz” Ribera del Duero 2020
About: The 2020 Viña Sastre “Pago de Santa Cruz” is an exceptional example of Ribera del Duero’s bold and complex wines. Made from 100% Tinto Fino (Tempranillo), this single-vineyard bottling embodies the intensity and elegance for which the region is known. With its concentrated fruit, fine tannins, and seamless integration of oak, this wine stands as a testament to Ribera del Duero’s rich winemaking heritage.
Producer: Viña Sastre is a family-owned winery with deep roots in the Ribera del Duero, renowned for crafting wines of character and distinction. The Pago de Santa Cruz vineyard, located at high altitudes with limestone-rich soils, is farmed organically, allowing the grapes to express their full potential. Founded by the Sastre family in 1992, the winery remains dedicated to traditional practices, small-batch production, and an unwavering focus on quality.
Notes: On the nose, this wine reveals a seductive bouquet of ripe blackberries, dark cherries, and plums, accompanied by hints of vanilla, clove, and cedar. The palate is full-bodied and velvety, with concentrated dark fruit flavors balanced by polished tannins and vibrant acidity. Layers of spice, dark chocolate, and a touch of graphite add complexity to the long, luxurious finish.
Food Pairing: The robust structure and richness of the 2020 “Pago de Santa Cruz” make it a perfect companion to grilled ribeye, roasted lamb, or Iberian pork. Its depth and complexity also complement hearty stews, such as lamb tagine or beef bourguignon. For a decadent pairing, try it with aged Manchego or cured meats like jamón ibérico.
Franck Bonville Brut Blanc de Blancs 2016
About: The 2016 Franck Bonville Brut Blanc de Blancs is a dazzling Champagne crafted entirely from Grand Cru Chardonnay. With its creamy texture, elegant minerality, and vibrant acidity, this vintage Champagne embodies the finesse and sophistication of the Côte des Blancs. Perfectly balanced and beautifully aged, it is a celebration of the exceptional quality of Grand Cru fruit and meticulous winemaking.
Producer: Franck Bonville is a revered name in Champagne, with three generations of expertise behind its exquisite wines. Based in Avize, a Grand Cru village in the Côte des Blancs, the estate is dedicated to producing Blanc de Blancs Champagnes that highlight the purity and finesse of Chardonnay. Every bottle reflects the family’s deep commitment to sustainable viticulture, precision, and the unique terroirs of their Grand Cru vineyards.
Notes: Delicate aromas of green apple, lemon zest, and white peach rise from the glass, accented by notes of freshly baked brioche and crushed chalk. On the palate, it is refined and vibrant, with flavors of citrus, pear, and a hint of almond. The fine, persistent mousse and mineral-driven finish leave an impression of elegance and freshness.
Food Pairing: This Champagne is a sublime match for oysters, lobster, or crab, as its crisp acidity and minerality enhance the briny sweetness of shellfish. It also pairs beautifully with creamy dishes like scallop risotto or brie-en-croute, where its bright profile cuts through the richness. For a luxurious experience, enjoy it with caviar or sushi.
Jonathan Didier Pabiot Pouilly-Fumé “Eurythmie” 2022
About: The 2022 Jonathan Didier Pabiot Pouilly-Fumé “Eurythmie” is a dazzling expression of Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire Valley. This biodynamically farmed wine offers a pure, harmonious representation of Pouilly-Fumé’s iconic flinty soils, delivering a wine that is both vibrant and deeply complex. A natural wine with no added sulfites, “Eurythmie” is a reflection of both the land and the artistry of its producer.
Producer: Jonathan Didier Pabiot is a rising star in the Loire Valley, known for his commitment to sustainable farming and low-intervention winemaking. Based in Pouilly-sur-Loire, his family estate focuses on crafting wines that authentically express their terroir. Pabiot’s biodynamic approach fosters balance and vitality in the vineyard, resulting in wines of extraordinary precision and depth. “Eurythmie” is his flagship cuvée, showcasing his passion for creating wines that are both natural and profoundly expressive.
Notes: This Pouilly-Fumé greets you with vibrant aromas of grapefruit, gooseberry, and white peach, layered with notes of crushed flint, fresh herbs, and lime blossom. On the palate, it is zesty and mineral-driven, with flavors of citrus and green apple framed by a crisp, mouthwatering acidity. The finish is long and saline, with an invigorating freshness.
Food Pairing: The vibrant acidity and minerality of the 2022 “Eurythmie” make it a perfect partner for fresh seafood, such as grilled prawns, salmon tartare, or smoked trout. Its herbal notes and citrus profile also enhance dishes like goat cheese tart, asparagus risotto, or Vietnamese spring rolls, creating a delightful interplay of flavors and textures.