Orcia DOC – A fascinating wine territory in the heart of Tuscany – Filippo Magnani

“The most beautiful wine in the world” is the appropriate tagline chosen by the Val d’Orcia region to promote its wines. My recent visit showed me that their quality is steadily increasing, surprisingly even in terms of how they define their territorial identity.

It is hard to find a nicer place to visit than the ‘beautiful’ Val d’Orcia, during any season of the year. Even on rainy days, a subtle fog hints romantically at the graceful profile of the rolling hills, sketched by lines of vines or olive trees, each one crowned with its own row of cypresses.

There are multiple treats for everyone: active holiday lovers can choose between the paths once walked by pilgrims on their journey to Rome (the so named “Via Francigena”, which is the Italian version of the Camino de Santiago). There are plenty of friendly hotels, all of them located in charming surroundings. Some of them welcome their guests directly in tiny, middle-aged villages that are cozy, and relaxed.

The mighty profile of Mount Amiata (an extinct volcano) provides opportunities from a hike or a bicycle ride to an alpine landscape, through silent forests of narrow trees, where it is not uncommon to meet deer, wild boar and foxes. In the winter it is possible to ski and take in the stunning views, on a clear day, from the easily reachable peak.

What better way to relax after an active day than in the historic hot springs of Bagno Vignoni or Bagni San Filippo with their freely accessible pools or luxury hotels equipped with all the comforts of a well-organized spa. Alternatively, you can choose to visit the surrounding towns, literally filled with Renaissance treasures: like San Quirico d’Orcia, or the “ideal city” of Pienza, redesigned by the humanist Pope Pius II who was born there. Cinema enthusiasts will also find locations where blockbuster movies like “The Gladiator” or “The English Patient” were filmed. For photography lovers, there are plenty of spots where they can create personal postcards, easily recognizable by the line of cars always parked along the country roads! Not to mention the renowned villages of Montepulciano and Montalcino that are also close by.

As for the gourmet traveler, the region’s local products can satisfy even the most discerning palate. Truffle hunting is an everyday activity, and visitors can have the opportunity to share in the deep love these truffle searchers have for their territory (they are the primary protectors of this natural environment). When the precious underground fruit is found by their trained dogs, whose loving relationships with their owners is touching, the enthusiasm that ensues is infectious. Local restaurants are the first to champion these treasures with homemade recipes based on pasta, game or the local tasty pecorino cheese. Dairy producers in the area can also be visited.

And then, like a jewel in the crown that shines ever more brightly, there is the wine! Orcia DOC is a small denomination in terms of production, but its territory is vastly spread out, maybe even too much so, encompassing the administrative boundaries of twelve municipalities. Consequently, there are significant differences in elevation, soil composition, exposure, and everything that influences the organoleptic features of its products. So far, total production counts less than one million bottles, divided between many relatively small family-run estates, with a few exceptions of outside investors who are nonetheless deeply involved in the promotion of the denomination, by joining its council, etc. There is still room for relevant growth, maybe even by an order of magnitude.

Their approach highlights the primary role of the Sangiovese grape, with a dedicated category. Some producers (but not many) have experimented with the native variety Foglia Tonda, as a potential flagship grape of the area, but so far, they have only arisen curiosity more than real interest. The Orcia Sangiovese Reserva ambitiously requires two years of barrel aging, and we can happily admit that in our tastings we found more than one label where the oak influence is harmoniously integrated, a feature that in late years has improved significantly.

However, it is much harder to define what to expect from an Orcia wine, or better yet what it is or should be in terms of flavours, aging potential, etc. Terroir features and vineyard location are too fragmented to be able to answer such a question.

But there is one element that helps shed some light – There is a friendly atmosphere and genuine enthusiasm. Territory interpretations might be different, especially because there can be large discrepancies in resources for both work in the vineyards and in the cellars. The importance of the human factor in the alchemy of terroir expression should not be overlooked. Wines display superior finesse and focus when they harness the most meaningful features of soil and climate, with the common goal of matching body and ripeness to the tension of Sangiovese’s acidity. This results in an impressive balance that makes each sip simultaneously carefree and captivating. Without the necessary human dedication and deep awareness that the denomination has the potential to develop in this way, such an achievement would not have been possible. The most recent accolades from wine critics, Italian guides and other wine professionals prove that this effort, which has grown naturally (also through discussions between the producers, group tastings, etc.), has been properly acknowledged.

So human commitment is probably the real strength of the Orcia DOC. Producers work passionately to improve their wines and are eager to show their efforts to wine lovers (every estate, big or small is tendentially well-organized to welcome visitors). So far tours to the wineries are limited. But I think that in the future they will become even more attractive, and more widely chosen.

#italy #italianwine #italianwinelovers #winetourism #italianwinetourism#ConsorzioVinoOrcia #toscana #italia #winerytasting #tuscany #winejournalist #wineinfluencer  #orciadoc #masterclass #sangiovese #enologia #tartufo @poggiogrande_winery @sassodisole @tenutasanoner @la_nascosta @agriturismobagnaia @donatellacinellicolombini @cantinacampotondo @capitoni_winery_pienza @valdorciaterresenesi @aziendaagricolaatrivm
@podereforte @ConsorzioVinoOrcia

AOC Entre-deux-Mers – the wine region between two rivers that is steeped in history

Frédéric Roger, Director of AOC Entre-deux-Mers gave a wonderful and detailed presentation to US/Canadian journalists and wine importers on the Entre-deux-Mers region yesterday at Wine Syndicate and House of Entre Deux Mers Wines, 16 rue de l’Abbaye, The Sauve, 33670.  Following the presentation was a three-hour “speed dating” with 10 local winegrowers, owners and producers so we can taste and learn about their wines – this was followed by a massive plate of oysters and light lunch.

Firstly, the Entre-Deux-Mers is a large region located 80 km southeast of the City of Bordeaux, and secondly, it is situated between the Dordogne and Garonne rivers.

Each winegrower, owner and producer expressed with exhilaration and passion the typicality of their terroir.  Their individual wine portfolios were also as diverse as their huge and wonderful personalities – this was a wonderful experience!

Some History
The Benedictine monks (in the Middle Ages) established the terroir and wines in this region. In 1079, Gérard de Corbie founded the Abbey of La Sauve-Majeure. The monks cleared the forest, planted the vines and worked to improve farming methods.  It’s interesting to note that they established trade with England during this period.

The Abbey of La Sauve is today the property of the State and was officially classified in 1998 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

White Grape Varieties

According to the AOC Entre-deux-Mers regulations, the wines must be blended, with a minimum of two white grape varieties.

Sauvignon  – this variety creates a more lively wine, with powerful aromas and brings to the nose fresh scents of citrus fruits, grapefruit, passion fruit, underlined by wild plants, acacia flower, and boxwood.

Muscadelle – this variety brings floral and fruit notes and flavours, and at the same time contributes to the complexity of the wines.

Sémillon  – offers notes of flowers, white and yellow fruits, pears, white peaches, and at the same time offers suppleness and roundness in the mouth. As a young wine, it is subtly discreet and reveals itself and expresses its aromas as it ages.

Sauvignon Gris  – gives aromas of exotic fruits and fatness to the wine.

By the Numbers:

  • Entre-deux-Mers is an appellation that covers over 1,700 hectares of vines
  • 94% of the surface area has adopted an environmental approach [Environmental Adaptation].
  • There are 300 winegrowers
  • There almost 10 million bottles sold each year.

Historical dates :

1937 : the year the Entre-deux-Mers Appellation was established.
1953 : the year the decree defines new production conditions and designates the white grape varieties that will make up the blend: Sauvignon, Sémillon and Muscadelle [September 23 1953]

#vinse2m #vinsentredeuxmers #histoire  #abbayedelasauvemajeure #entredeuxmerstourisme #girondetourisme @charmeu_usa @charmeu_canada and @vinsblancsdebordeaux_usa #enjoyitsfromeurope #euAgriPromo #MadeintheEU #thecharmingtasteofeu #charmeu #loupiac #cadillac  #saintmacaire #cerons #saintecroixdumont  #bordeauxsuperieur #premierescotesdebordeaux #bordeauxmoelleux  #bordeauxwine#bordeauxlover #madeinfrance #wine #winelover # #winelife #winetourism #winedestinations #winetasting #sweetbordeauxwine  #sweetbordeaux

 

September is “California Wine Month” – here’s how you can celebrate!

September is “California Wine Month” this is the time to celebrate the annual harvest and raise a glass to their vibrant wine community.

California’s wine industry has played a vital role in the state’s culture and economy for over 250 years. California makes up 81% of wine production in the United States and 95% of exports. Within the state’s 147 distinct winegrowing regions are 621,000 acres of vineyards, 4,800 bonded wineries and nearly 6,000 winegrowers.

Here are three exciting ways to celebrate California Wine Month

  1. Participate in Events and Experiences at California Wineries

Over 24 million people from around the globe visit the California winegrowing regions each year.  Visit wineries across the state 40+ harvest-themed events, activities and experiences — and more will continue to be added throughout September. These include behind-the-scenes vineyard and crush pad tours, grape-stomping competitions, wine and food festivals, hands-on harvest experiences, charity wine auctions and more.

“California’s diverse and expansive wine country is one of its top tourism draws,” said Caroline Beteta, Visit California president and CEO. “From high-end pairings and legendary wineries to sustainable vineyards and neighborly barn tastings, there’s an experience — and a wine — for everyone to enjoy.”

  1. Pair Iconic California Recipes with California Wine

It’s no coincidence that California wine pairs perfectly with the state’s farm-fresh produce and trend-setting cuisine. To help consumers experience this delicious culinary connection at home, Discover California Wines has partnered with California Grown and Visit California to create the free “Iconic California Dishes to Celebrate California Wine Month” e-book. The book features recipes for dishes that evoke the state’s sunny and relaxed vibe — all paired with California wine and creative, wine-based cocktails. Bring harvest home with recipes including Avocado Salad with Hidden Valley Ranch-Style Dressing, Wine Country Chicken Salad and the California 75, a classic wine-based lemon cocktail with a literal and figurative twist.

“We say what grows together goes together,” said Cher Watte Angulo, executive director of California Grown. “Since California provides over 50% of the nation’s produce and over 80% of the wine, it makes sense that people celebrate with both a sip and a bite of the Golden State.”

  1. Discover and Enjoy California Wine

Whether visiting wineries in person or online, there’s no better time than California Wine Month to pick up a few bottles of wine to share with friends and family. It’s also easy to find a great selection of California wine at your local grocery store or wine shop.

For the latest details on offerings, visit the Discover California Wines website.

#californiawinemonth #californiawines #harvest #winecountry #napavalley #winelovers #winetourism #winenews #wine @cagrownofficial @napavintners @sonomavalleywine @sierravintners @temeculawines @pasowine @maderawinetrail @winesofscm @mendowine @livermorevalleywinecountry @santabarbarawinecountry @lodi_wine

 

 

Delaire Graff Estate, Stellenbosch, South Africa – Part 1 The Owner’s Villa

I recently had the distinct pleasure of having a personal tour of Laurence Graff’s private villa also known as “Owner’s Villa” at Delaire Graff Estate. The Owners Villa is also available to rent out (by application) if available for $25,000 USD/night.

The estate is anchored on the vineyard slopes of Botmanskop, high above the Helshoogte Pass (which links Stellenbosch to Franschhoek), The estate offers a stunning 360-degree view in which Table Mountain can be seen to the west, and Franschhoek to the east. There are absolutely stunning views wherever you look!

The Owner’s Villa

The Owner’s Villa certainly sets a new standard in luxury accommodation. Exclusivity is what it’s all about, starting with a private entrance and being totally secluded from the rest of the lodges.

The villa is spread across two floors, with two bedrooms on each floor, is 7,100-square-foot and features two living rooms, a dining room, a welcoming appointed kitchen, walk-in temperature-controlled wine cellar, a 45-foot swimming pool, a jacuzzi terrace, family room, a fully equipped gym, and about every luxe amenity imaginable. All meals, are bespoke, prepared by the Villa’s chef to match the high Delaire Graff standard and for nannies and security there are two ensuite rooms. The luxurious Villa offers discerning guests demanding opulence and space in a relaxed country setting.

Two helipads are also on the estate, allowing guests to travel directly from the Cape Town International Airport. Rumor has it that a business executive recently rented the villa out for a month and parked his new Ferrari out front.

The villa also acts as a gallery for Laurence Graff’s personal art collection and is truly something to behold! He is frequently named one of the world’s top art collectors. As one of the world’s most respected diamond magnates and philanthropists he says, “Curating the art for the Owner’s Villa has been a very personal project. Among the remarkable displays of international talent are works by new and established African artists, demonstrating the immense wealth of creativity discovered across Africa and showcased and celebrated throughout Delaire Graff Estate.” Graff’s art collection is contemporary South African art by iconic and emerging South African artists. Works by William Kentridge, Lionel Smit, Dylan Lewis, Deborah Bell, Sidney Kumalo, Durant Sihlali, Cecil Skotnes and Stephane Graff define many of the interior and exterior spaces.

Today’s ultra-high-net-worth travelers are looking for exceptional experiences and seeking the best of everything. This is the place to experience all of this and some. The bar has certainly been raised!

…continues Delaire Graff Estate, Stellenbosch, South Africa – Part 2 Wine Tasting

#tourism #winetourism #DelaireGraffEstate #holidaydestination
#CapeWinelands #DrinkSouthAfrican #SpectacularSouthAfrica #SouthAfricanWine #wine #winelovers #DrinkSouthAfrican #SouthAfricanWine
#winelover #travelling #winetravel #winetourism #womeninwine #wineexperience #winetravels #winetasting #wineinfluencer #wineadventures #traveldiary #traveling #art
#fineart #artcollection #relaischateaux #delairegraff #luxuryliving

Stellenbosch an Art Lovers Haven

Stellenbosch just 45 minutes outside of Cape Town, South Africa, has become a retreat for art lovers. Its not only home to South Africa’s oldest music school “Stellenbosch Conservatoire.” It also features an impressive collection of galleries and studios. When I wondering the 300-year-old streets of Stellenbosch this week, I came upon these stunning and fun outdoor sculptures – there is such a wealth of diversity and imagination that bring these historic oak-lined streets to life!

So next time you are in Stellenbosch discover Stellenbosch outdoors art – a wealth of diversity and imagination that colour the historic oak-lined streets.

#funsunday #exploring #sundayfunday #tourism #winetourism
#CapeWinelands #DrinkSouthAfrican #SpectacularSouthAfrica #SouthAfricanWine #wine #winelovers #DrinkSouthAfrican #SouthAfricanWine
#winelover #travelling #winetravel #winetourism #womeninwine #wineexperience #winetravels #winetasting#wineinfluencer #wineadventures #traveldiary #traveling #art #streetart