Above: The Press Conference

As above: The press conference for this year’s World Gourmet Summit held on the 61st floor of UOB Plaza, with refreshments from Si Chuan Dou Hua, on Thursday 19th March 2009.

Singapore – Despite the global financial crisis and its impact on consumer spending and the fine wine market, wine lovers and gourmands alike will find that, even in these difficult times, the 13th World Gourmet Summit promises a rich and interesting line-up of events which cements its position as ‘an international gastronomic extravaganza’. The 2-week festival is scheduled to be held in the city state from 19th April to 2nd May 2009.

The event is co-organised by the Singapore Tourism Board and Peter Knipp Holdings Pte Ltd. Peter A. Knipp, its CEO, spoke with confidence and ease as he addressed the attending media and trade invitees. “We have a long term vision for this event as it showcases Singapore’s gastronomic strengths. We are affected by economic conditions like everyone else, but we have more interest this year. While we lost some partners and sponsors, we also won some.” Peter has forecasted a 30% revenue drop for the 2009 event, but he has taken steps to “adapt prices to deal with the financial turmoil. In times like these, we will face the challenges and come out stronger. This is a Singapore-staged event, and it belongs to Singapore,” he added proudly.”

Peter’s shared confidence was also echoed by the following industry players. “I think it’s going to be very successful, and the awards will motivate people in the industry to improve and excel. Additionally, it’s an event where food and beverage professionals look forward to participate in annually,” said Rachel Aw, a Sommelier with La Strada, part of the Les Amis group of restaurants.

“We are proud to be a partner and the World Gourmet Summit is excellent for Schott Zwiesel to showcase its products. This gourmet initiative has put Singapore on the world map, and I believe it will continue to do so for many years to come,” says Christophe Oudin of Zwiesel Asia Pacific.

The list of nominees to the event’s 2009 Awards of Excellence (wine-related only), is as follows:

Restaurant of the Year:
Iggy’s (French),
Garibaldi (Italian),
Au Petit Salut (French), 
Oso Ristorante (Italian).

Asian Restaurant of the Year:
Majestic (Cantonese),
Hua Ting (Cantonese),
Chef Chan’s (Cantonese),
My Humble House (Chinese Fusion), 
The Song of India (North & South Indian).

New Restaurant of the Year:
Gunther’s (French),
Prive (Western), 
Long Beach @ Dempsey (Chinese, Seafood).

Sommelier of the Year:
Alessandro Calabro from Garibaldi,
Timothy Goh from Les Amis, 
Rachel Aw from La Strada.

Old World Wine List of the Year:
Les Amis (French),
Raffles Grill (French), 
Iggy’s (French).

New World Wine List of the Year:
mezza9 @ Grand Hyatt (International Cuisine),
WineGarage (Western),
The Cellar Door (Australian and New Zealand).

Wine Retailer of the Year:
Denise the Wine Shop,
Culina, 
Vinum Fine Wine Merchants.

Wine Distributor of the Year:
Culina,
Top Wines, 
Hock Tong Bee.

Results for the above nominations will be announced on Saturday 25th April 2009.

There are numerous dinners and educational seminars running throughout the week of 20th to 29th April 2009. Call the World Gourmet Summit Reservations at +65 6270 1254 for menu and event information, or email at: info@worldgourmetsummit.com, or visit them online at: www.worldgourmetsummit.com.

Here’s a brief event capture of World Gourmet Summit’s wine-related activities:

Spanish Wine Masterclass
Monday 20 April 2009, 6:30pm to 7:30pm @ The Sentosa Resort & Spa.
S$98.00 (HK$503.00, RMB443.00)
With top wines from Spain’s Priorat to be moderated and tutored by Clos Figueras Europvin’s Christopher Cannan.

Château Léoville Poyferré Wine Masterclass
Wednesday 22 April 2009, 6:30pm to 8:00pm @ The St Regis Singapore.
S$128.00 (HK$656.00, RMB578.00)
Previewing 8 wines with the winery’s owner and vintner Didier Cuvelier.

Chianti Classico Wine Fair
Sunday 26 April 2009, 3:00pm to 5:00pm @ The St Regis Singapore.
S$58.00 (HK$297.00, RMB262.00).
Ticket prices is redeemable if you purchase an unspecified purchased at this event.

Chianti Classico Symposium
Sunday 26 April 2009, from 5:00pm to 6:30pm @ The St Regis Singapore.
S$98.00 (HK$503.00, RMB443.00).
The session is led by wine connoisseur Dr NK Yong, Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, wine reviewer Daniel Thomases as well as participating Chianti winery representatives.

Castello di Ama Wine Masterclass
Monday 27 April 2009, 6:30pm to 7:30pm @ The St Regis Singapore.
S$108.00 (HK$488.00, RMB554.00)
Introduction by Opus One’s winemaker, Michael Silacci.

Opus One Wine Masterclass
Wedndesday 29 April 2009, 6:30pm to 8:00pm @ Swissôtel The Stamford.
S$128.00 (HK$656.00, RMB578.00)
Introduction by winemaker, Micheal Silacci, with wines from 6 different years and vintages (1986 to 2005).

Wine Dinners paired with cuisine from famous chefs include:

Spanish Gala Dinner
Monday 20 April 2009, 7:30pm to 11:00pm @ The Sentosa Resort & Spa.
S$248.00 (HK$1273.00, RMB1121.00)

Parker Coonawarra & Yering Station Wine Dinner
Tuesday 21 April 2009, 7:30pm to 11:00pm @ Iggy’s The Regent.
S$268.00 (HK$1375.00, RMB1211.00)

Château Léoville Poyferré Wine Dinner
Wednesday 22 April 2009, 8.00pm to 11.00pm @ The St Regis.
S$428.00 (HK$2198.00, RMB1936.00)

Germany’s Robert Weil with Rougié Foie Gras
Thursday 23 April 2009, 7:00pm to 11:00pm @ Privé in Sentosa.
S$188.00. (HK$965.00, RMB850.00)

Champagne Devaux Dinner
Friday 24 April 2009, 7:00pm to 11:00pm @ the Swissôtel The Stamford.
S$188.00. (HK$965.00, RMB850.00)

Seafood Brunch with Champagne Deveaux
Sunday 26 April 2009, 11.00am to 3.00pm @ Ulu Ulu Safari Restaurant.
S$148.00. (HK$756.00, RMB667.00)

Iconic Wine Dinner with Chianti Classico Wines
Monday 27 April 2009, 8:00pm to 11:00pm @ The St Regis.
S$628.00. (HK$3244.00, RMB2839 .00)

Opus One Wine Dinner
Wednesday 29 April 2009, 8:00pm to 11:00pm @ Swissôtel The Stamford.
S$428.00 (HK$2198.00, RMB1936.00)

Chianti & Chianti Classico

Wine Style:
Medium in body, the grape typically carries strong tannin, high acidity and flavors of herbs and cherries. Chiantis are usually fruitier, light ruby to garnet colored.

Flavors:

Origin:
Tuscany in Italy

Found:
Italy only

Chianti: A blend of Italian red and white grapes, produced in Tuscany in northeastern Italy. The major component is usually Sangiovese. Over the years there has been a change in the grapes required and it is no longer produced in straw-covered bottles. Chiantis aged for 3 or more years are called Chianti Riservas. Flavors include cherry, leather, and tobacco. Suggested food pairings include Beef Bourguignonne and Flank Steak.

Chianti Classico: From a designated portion of the Chianti wine district. To be labeled Chianti Classico, both vineyard and winery must be within the specified region.

Very few Chianti Classicos contain white grapes. In addition to Sangiovese they often contain Cabernet Sauvignon. Suggested food pairings include Beef Teriyaki and Filet Mignon.

Super Tuscans: They are powerful and in most instances, premium red wines from Tuscany in northern Italy, made in part from the Sangiovese grape and to a lesser extent from the Cabernet Sauvignon and other Bordeaux grape varieties. Their history is unique. Starting decades ago, innovative winemakers rejected old-fashioned Italian wine laws that then stipulated, for example, that Chiantis must contain both red and white grapes.

These winemakers made their own wine in their own way. While few Super Tuscans were formally designated as top wines by the Italian wine authorities, many received an enthusiastic reception on the Italian and world markets. Super Tuscans often cost much more than wines carrying a fancier official designation, and believe me, they can be worth it. Suggested food pairings include Roast Beef.

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Further Reading:
Wikipedia on Chianti
Wikipedia on Chianti Classico
Italian Made
Chianti Classico Consortium

Castello di Cacchiano
Tuscany in Italy

Above: Winery Images courtesy of wine lover Jeremie Valdez.

Above: Mr. Michael Quick, export manager, posing for us us at FHA 2008 in Singapore. Above: the wines of Castello di Cacchiano, lined up in front of our lens.

This ancient 12th century estate is located in the south of Chianti Classico, in the commune of Gaiole in Chianti, near the village of Monti. From its position of 500 meters above sea level it overlooks a vast panorama.In 1974, the Barons Ricasoli-Firidolfi, one of the oldest families in Tuscany, together with his wife Elisabetta Balbi Valier, at the urging of her husband, Alberto Ricasoli-Firidolfi, began bottling the wines of the property under the Castello di Cacchiano label. Today, Giovanni (his younger brother, Marco, now runs Rocca di Montegrossi) took over the management of this estate.

There are some 33 hectares of vineyards planted mainly with Malvasia, Sangiovese, Canaiolo, and Merlot in the Monti commune, the current baron has turned his attention to Chianti Classico, doing away with the Super Tuscan styles formerly produced at Cacchiano. As we know, he makes only one bottling each vintage, and exceptional vintages are called ‘Millennio,’ a virtually riserva but not officially labeled as such. In this estate, the winemaker, Giovanni is a strong advocate for Merlot which he believes is an excellent complement to the traditional Tuscan grapes. Most blends occur around 85% Sangiovese with 15% Merlot, a blend that he adjusts based on vintage conditions. He also keeps up production of Rosso Toscano, an everyday wine that is produced every year, and the traditional Vin Santo. Annual production some 7,500 cases.

Castello di Cacchiano product offering and bottling is summarized into the following:

Castello di Cacchiano Chianti Classico (Red): Typical 95% Sangiovese, 5% Canaiolo. 10 days fermentation with 23 months in French wood before bottling and release. 4,000 cases.

Castello di Cacchiano Chianti Classico Riserva Millennio (Red): A usual blend of 95% Sangiovese, 5% Canaiolo. 15 days fermentation with 33 days in French wood before bottling and release. 1,000 cases.

Castello di Cacchiano Rosso di Cacchiano Rosso Toscana IGT (Red): A blend of typical 80% Sangiovese, with the rest Merlot, Canaiolo, Malvasia del Chianti from a 31 hectares vineyard sited on clay and limestone. 10 days fermentation with 27 months in a mix of oak and cement vats before bottling and release. 1,200 cases.

Castello di Cacchiano Vin Santo del Chianti Classico (White/Dessert): A sweetie comprising of mostly 85% Malvasia del Chianti Bianca, and 15% Canaiolo. After 2 months of natural drying on wooden grates, the wine sees oak caratelli for 6.5 years before bottling and release. Only 188 cases made.

The wines of Chianti Classico traditionally exports a majority of their wines to the US, and Europe. Its premium and normale Chiantis, premium to fine Super-tuscans are more readily available and may be found in Asian wine retail and shelves. They are often priced reasonably for some, at a premium for the best producers, and yet remain within reach to the average wine consumer and social drinker.

As Michael Quick (as pictured above) was telling us, the winery is looking for an Asian importer.

Contact Details:
Castello di Cacchiano
Localita Monti in Chianti
I-53013 Gaiole in Chianti (SI)
Italy
Tel: +39 05 7774 7018
Fax: +39 05 7774 7157
Email: info@castellodicacchiano.it/
Website: Click here.

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2001 Castello di Cacchiano Chianti Classico
Italy, Tuscany

From an earlier tasting. T20032008. 13.5%. A blend of Sangiovese, and Canaiolo. Gorgeous cherry fruit bouquet with underlying spice. Medium-bodied, fairly rich sour cherry fruit, oak thats nicely integrated, medium acidity and clean tannins, and a medium enjoyable finish. Drink between 2007 and 2015.

2004 Castello di Cacchiano Rosso Toscana IGT
Italy, Tuscany

F25042008. 13.0%. A blend of 80% Sangiovese, and 20% Merlot. Sweet raspberry delights. Medium-bodied, medium acidity with soaking tannins, and a short finish. Drink from 2008 to 2010.

2005 Castello di Cacchiano Chianti Classico
Italy, Tuscany

F25042008. 13.0%. 95% Sangiovese, and 5% Canaiolo. Perfumed red fruit. Medium-bodied, simple raspberry aromas, flavors and integrated oak. Short finish. Drink from 2008 to 2010.

2003 Castello di Cacchiano Chianti Classico Riserva
Italy, Tuscany

F25042008. 14.0%. 95% Sangiovese, 5% Canaiolo. Serious red plums with vanilla and oak on the nose. Medium to full-bodied, this is a serious wine with red fruit, medium acidity, and structured and firm tannins. Short to medium finish. Drink from 2008 to 2014.

2000 Castello di Cacchiano Vin Santo del Chianti Classico
Italy, Tuscany

F25042008. 15.0%. 85% Malvasia del Chianti Bianca, and 15% Canaiolo. This is a lovely wine with good aromas of mango like flavors and dry fruit. Full-bodied, it is enjoyable and stylish, with good acidity, smoothness. An attractive discovery made from the realm of Vin Santo, or wine of the saints. Nice long finishing. Drink from 2008+.

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Photographs and text by Daniel. Hit us with your best shots; we’ll try our best to listen. Send your inquiries or comments here or via email to jiuwine@gmail.com.

Agricoltori del Geografico
Tuscany in Italy

Above: The entrance and vineyard of Geografico.
The Italian word, Montegiachi is named after an ancient agricultural estate, owned for more than six centuries by the noble family Cinughi de Pazzi from Siena. Today, Carlo Salvadori, assisted by Marco Toti, Lorenzo Landi, and Lorenzo Lelli, oversees the estate.

Covering some 571 hectares with 150 hectares within the Chianti Classio area. The estate vineyards are planted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, Merlot, Canaiolo, Malvasia, Trebbiano, and Vernaccia di San Gimignano. The estate ferments its wines in stainless steel of which they are then aged for accordingly to the estate’s requirement before bottling and release. 97% of its wines are reds, with the remaining 3% in white wine make. Annual production in numbers are estimated around 167,000 cases.

This estate owns several other estates with multiple and numerous wine offerings in Tuscany. It may only add to consumer’s confusion. To simply our explanation, we will highlight for a start, the wines from Geografico. Geografico product main offering and bottling is summarized as follows:

Agricoltori del Geografico Chianti Classico (Red): A mix of blending of grape varietal: Sangiovese, Canaiolo from the following vineyards – Radda in Chianti, Gaiole in Chianti, Castellina in Chianti, Castelnuovo Berardenga.

Agricoltori del Chianti Geografico Chianti Classico Contessa di Radda (Red): Sangiovese, Canaiolo from vineyards sited at Radda in Chianti and Castellina in Chianti.

Agricoltori del Geografico Chianti Classico Riserva Tenuta Montegiachi (Red): Sangiovese, and Colorino blend from its Tenuta Montegiachi single cuvee vineyard, Castelnuovo Berardenga.

Agricoltori del Geografico Chianti Classico Fagnano (Red): Sangiovese, Canaiolo from its Tenuta Montegiachi single cuvee vineyard, Castelnuovo Berardenga.

Agricoltori del Geografico Chianti Classico Colli Senesi (Red): A blend of Sangiovese, Canaiolo from from the area of di San Gimignano.

Agricoltori del Chianti Geografico Chianti Colli Senesi Torri Riserva (Red): A blend of Sangiovese, Canaiolo from from the area of Sovicille within Siena.

Agricoltori del Geografico Vernaccia di San Gimignano (White): A single varietal made up of 100% Vernaccia from the sub region of San Gimignano where this white grape is planted and made widely.
Agricoltori del Geografico Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Cerraia (Red): A mix of local and indigenous varietal; Prugnolo Gentile, Canaiolo, and Mammolo from the area of Montepulciano.

Agricoltori del Geografico Le Mire Rosso Toscana IGT (Red): A modern blend of Sangiovese, and Merlot from vineyards in Siena.

Agricoltori del Geografico Le Mire Bianco Toscana IGT (White): A blend of Trebbiano, and Chardonnay from vineyards in Siena.

Agricoltori del Geografico Vin Santo del Chianti (White/Dessert): Usually aged for 5 years in cask before release. A blend of Trebbiano, and Malvasia from vineyards in San Gimignano.

The wines of Chianti Classico traditionally exports a majority of their wines to the US, and Europe. Its premium and normale Chiantis, premium to fine Super-tuscans are more readily available and may be found in Asian wine retail and shelves. They are often priced reasonably for some, at a premium for the best producers, and yet remain within reach to the average wine consumer and social drinker.

The wines of Agricoltori del Geografico is distributed widely in the Asian cities of Bangkok, Jakarta, Manila, Taipei and Seoul. In Singapore it is represented by Hermitage Wine.

Contact Details:
Agricoltori del Geografico
Via Mulinaccio 10
53013 Gaiole in Chianti
Tuscany, Italy
Tel: +39 05 7774 9489
Fax: +39 05 7774 9223
Email: info@montegiachi.com
Website: Click here.

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2004 Tenuta Montegiachi Chianti Classico Riserva
Italy, Tuscany

Tenuta di Montegiachi dates back to the 5th century. It vineyards covers some 10 hectares and are mainly planted with Sangiovese which is solely used in the production of Chianti Classico Riserva, Montegiachi. TH24042008. 13.5%. Made from 90% Sangiovese and 10% Canaiolo. 24 months in oak barrels and barriques with some 3,333 cases made. A pleasant medium-bodied wine filled with rich cherry, plum notes. Soft red scented tannins and an easy finish. Drink from 2008 to 2011.

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Photographs and text by Daniel. Hit us with your best shots; we’ll try our best to listen. Send your inquiries or comments here or via email to jiuwine@gmail.com.

Castello Vicchiomaggio
Tuscany in Italy

Above: The estate, vineyards, fermentation, cellar and barrel room of Castello Vicchiomaggio.

Castello Vicchiomaggio dates back to the 5th century, when it was called Vicchio dei Longobardi. Since 1964, the Matta family, whose owners John Matta and wife Paolo continued to oversee their charge since 1982, continues to manage its family run estate. This 32 hectares estate is located a few kilometres North of Greve in the heart of the Chianti Classico region on top of a hill with overseeing the countryside.

The estate vineyards are planted with Sangiovese, Canaiolo, Colorino, Trebbiano, Malvasia, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The grapes from each vineyard are vinified separately in stainless steel, and then oak aged in the air conditioned cellars beneath the castle. Several different styles of wine are produced, from the traditional modern with its best wine offering and bottling in its La Prima series. Annual production is around 29,000 cases.

The estate’s product offering and bottling is summarized as below:

Castello Vicchiomaggio San Jacobo Chianti Classico (Red): A make of 90% Sangiovese, 5% Canaiolo, and 5% Colorino. Aged for 12 to 24 months in traditional large barrels.

Castello Vicchiomaggio Chianti Classico Riserva Petri (Red): 20 year old vines of 90% Sangiovese, 5% Canaiolo, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. 6 months in small barrels, 6 months more in larger barrels with an additional 9 months in bottle before release.

Castello Vicchiomaggio Chianti Classico La Prima Riserva (Red): From 35 year old vines. 100% Sangiovese with 16 to 20 months in small barrel before bottling and release. Typically, 1,000 cases are made annually.

Castello Vicchiomaggio Ripa delle Mandorle Toscana IGT (Red): A suggested Super-Tuscan blend of 75% Sangiovese, and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon. As we read, the label’s Sangiovese see larger barrels, while Cabernet Sauvignon gets the smaller ones.

Castello Vicchiomaggio Ripa delle More Toscana IGT (Red): A blend of 60% Sangiovese, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 10% Merlot. 18 to 24 months in small barrels before bottling and release.

The wines of Chianti Classico traditionally exports a majority of their wines to the US, and Europe. Its premium and normale Chiantis, premium to fine Super-tuscans are more readily available and may be found in Asian wine retail and shelves. They are often priced reasonably for some, at a premium for the best producers, and yet remain within reach to the average wine consumer and social drinker.

Contact Details:
Castello Vicchiomaggio
Via Vicchiomaggio, 4
50022 – Greve in Chianti
Firenze, Italy
Tel. +39 0 5585 4079
Fax +39 0 5585 3911
Email: info@vicchiomaggio.it
Website: Click here.

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2004 Castello Vicchiomaggio Chianti Classico la Prima Riserva
Italy, Tuscany

TH24042008. 14.0%. 100% Sangiovese from 35 year old vines. 18 months in 1 year old oak barrels. 833 cases made. Bright red aromas of cherry and plums. Medium-bodied, spice, with dry and good levels of acidity, a pleasant red coated palate which would had been an ideal companion to roast meats and pasta dishes. Short finish. Drink from 2008 to 2011.

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Photographs and text by Daniel. Hit us with your best shots; we’ll try our best to listen. Send your inquiries or comments here or via email to jiuwine@gmail.com.

Above: The estate images; from building to vineyards to cellar room. Images are supplied and courtesy of winery.

Above: Mr. Matteo Gambaro, whom we met at FHA 2008, as he spent his time and generous pours with the Editor @ 酒 Jiuwine.com.

This is a 120 hectares estate located near the town of Barberino Val d’Elsa at about 30 km from Florence and 28 km from Siena, in the heart of the Chianti Classico Gallo Nero area. Today, the estate is managed and owned by winemaker Matteo Gambaro (whom is pictured above) whom we met in Singapore in April 2008.

Besides the 40 hectares of Olive groves, its 30 hectares of vineyards, sited on permeable soil (limestone), is planted with Sanigovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and other indigenous grape varietal.

The estate product offering and bottling is summarized as follows:

Casa Sola Chianti Classico (Red): The mainstay of most Chianti based producers. Modern styled, a typical blend of 90% Sangiovese, 4% Canaiolo, 4% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 2% Merlot. 12 to 15 days fermentation, 18 months in oak casks (part French), 14 months in bottle before release.

Casa Sola Chianti Classico Riserva (Red): A mix of 90% Sangiovese, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 3% Merlot. Fermentation of the grapes for 12- 15 days at controlled temperature, complete malo-lactic fermentation. 12 to 15 days fermentation, 24 months in oak casks (part French), 14 months in bottle before release.

Casa Sola Montarsiccio Toscana IGT (Red): A super-tuscan label from its special vineyard known to us as Montarsiccio. It is made using 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 10% Sangiovese. 12 to 15 days fermentation, 24 months in oak casks (part French), 14 months in bottle before release.

Casa Sola Vin Santo del Chianti Classico (White/Dessert): A typical blend of native grape varietal; Malvasia del Chianti, Trebbiano toscano. Depending on harvest conditions, the grapes are harvested, collected in wooden crates, hung up to dry for some 2 to 3 months before soft pressed, fermented in chestnut/oak casks for 5 years, 6 months in bottle before release.

The wines of Chianti Classico export some 70% to the traditional markets of US, and Europe. Its premium and normale Chiantis, premium to fine Super-tuscans are more readily available and may be found in Asian wine retail and shelves. They are often priced reasonably for some, at a premium for the best producers, and yet remain within reach to the average wine consumer and social drinker.

Contact Details:
Fattoria Casa Sola
Strade di Cortine, 5
50021 Barberino Val d’lsa
Tel.+39 05 5807 5028
Fax: +39 05 5805 9194
Email: info@fattoriacasasola.com or wine@fattoriacasasola.com
Website: Click here.

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2005 Casa Sola Chianti Classico
Italy, Tuscany

F25042008. 13.5%. 90% Sangiovese, 4% Canaiolo, 4% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 2% Merlot. Fresh black currant. Light-bodied, a simple palate of black cassis like fruit, drying acidity and a short finish. Drink from 2008 to 2010.

2003 Casa Sola Chianti Classico Riserva
Italy, Tuscany

F25042008. 14.5%. 90% Sangiovese, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 3% Merlot. Hint of earth and spice. Dense, rich plums and oak giving way to classic sour red ripe cherry. Medium to full-bodied, approachable with red currant and cherry, red plums, rounded dry tannins. Good medium savoury finish. A very nice, harmonious wine, accessible now and should hold well over the medium term. Drink from 2008 to 2015.

2001 Casa Sola Montarsiccio Toscana IGT
Italy, Tuscany

F25042008. 13.5%. 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 10% Sangiovese. A feminine soft spoken wine of black fruit and melted licorice. Medium-bodied, dried fruit with a velvety texture and slight acidity. Good medium finish. Drink from 2008 to 2014.

1999 Casa Sola Vin Santo del Chianti Classico
Italy, Tuscany, Chianti

F25042008. 16.0%. Malvasia del Chianti, and Trebbiano Toscano. Clean vanilla, dried apricot, mango. Full-bodied, the wine tends towards sweetness on the palate with optimal structure, rich flavors and an exceptional big finish. Enjoyable from 2008 to 2019.

F16052008. 16.0%. Intense, candied fruit peel, figs and raisins plus spirit. Full-bodied, dense, almost honeyed mouth-feel with notable sweetness and weight. Medium persistance and compact taste. Drink from 2008 to 2019.

激烈，蜜餞果皮，無花果和葡萄乾，另加精神。充分健全，緻密，幾乎蜂蜜口感受到顯著的甜度和重量。中等持續性和緊湊的口味。酒後從2008年至2019年。

Chianti Classicos & Consorzio del Vino Chianti Classico

Above: The iconic Gallo Nero (Black Rooster) sign at Gaiole in Chianti, Tuscany.

Above: (From left to right) Simone Fabbrini and Daniele Rosellini representing the Consorzio as seen in the above picture.

Consorzio del Vino Chianti Classico

We were pleased to meet both Simone Fabbrini and Daniele Rosellini (Technical) (as seen in the above picture), representatives from the above association when we visited their booth as part of the above event.

Founded since 1927 and merged between two synergies in 2005, the consortium oversees some 600 members, of which 350 are winemakers and bottlers which effectively blanket 95% of the entire denomination. Like a cooperative in Spain, the consortium provides modern wine making expertise from laboratory testing, to technical advice and inspection to legal services, not forgeting marketing reach to its members. Through these different segments, it aims to forge a common understanding and desirability to continue long held tradition in giving Chianti makers and consumers the “classic” feel of both its wine styles and its territory of origin.

In an earlier quote and release from its president; Marco Pallanti, of Chianti Classico estate Castello di Ama: “Chianti Classico sales are going from strength to strength since the two overseeing bodies – consorzio – merged to form the Consorzio Vino Chianti Classico in 2005. The black rooster now has its foot firmly forwards as the icon of Chianti Classico and distinguishing mark from straightforward Chianti. From the 2006 vintage, each bottle of Chianti Classico has the black rooster logo on the DOCG (equivalent to the French Appellation Controlee) seal. No rooster, no classico.”

For more information, please click here.

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Agricoltori del Geografico
2004 Tenuta Montegiachi Chianti Classico Riserva
Italy, Tuscany

The Italian word, Montegiachi is named after an ancient agricultural estate, owned for more than six centuries by the noble family Cinughi de Pazzi from Siena. Covering some 571 hectares with 150 hectares within the Chianti Classio area, the estate ferments its wines in stainless steel of which they are then aged for accordingly to the estate’s requirement before bottling and release. Today, Carlo Salvadori, assisted by Marco Toti, Lorenzo Landi, and Lorenzo Lelli, oversees the estate. The wines are represented by Hermitage Wine in Singapore.

Contact Details:
Foto-Agricoltori del Geografico
Via Mulinaccio 10
53013 Gaiole in Chianti
Tuscany, Italy
Tel: +39 05 7774 9489
Fax: +39 05 7774 9223
Email: info@montegiachi.com
Website: Click here.

TH24042008. 13.5%. A traditional style Chianti Classico Reserva numbered on the seal featuring the famous black cockerel. Made from 90% Sangiovese and 10% Canaiolo. 24 months in oak barrels and barriques with some 3,333 cases made. A pleasant medium-bodied wine filled with rich cherry, plum notes. Soft red scented tannins and an easy finish. Drink from 2008 to 2011.

2004 Castello Vicchiomaggio Chianti Classico la Prima
Italy, Tuscany

Castello Vicchiomaggio dates back to the 5th century, when it was called Vicchio dei Longobardi. Since 1964, the Matta family, whose owners John Matta and wife Paolo continued to oversee their charge since 1982, continues to manage its family run estate. This 32 hectares estate is located a few kilometres North of Greve in the heart of the Chianti Classico region on top of a hill with overseeing the countryside. The grapes from each vineyard are vinified separately in stainless steel, and then oak aged in the air conditioned cellars beneath the castle. Several different styles of wine are produced, from the traditional modern with its best wine offering and bottling in its La Prima series.

Contact Details:
Castello Vicchiomaggio
Via Vicchiomaggio, 4
50022 – Greve in Chianti
Firenze, Italy
Tel. +39 0 5585 4079
Fax +39 0 5585 3911
Email: info@vicchiomaggio.it
Website: Click here.

TH24042008. 14.0%. 100% Sangiovese from 35 year old vines. 18 months in 1 year old oak barrels. 833 cases made. Bright red aromas of cherry and plums. Medium-bodied, spice, with dry and good levels of acidity, a pleasant red coated palate which would had been an ideal companion to roast meats and pasta dishes. Short finish. Drink from 2008 to 2011.

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Photographs and text by Daniel. Hit us with your best shots; we’ll try our best to listen. Send your inquiries or comments here or via email to jiuwine@gmail.com.

酒 – Tasting @ Extra Space Wed 09042008

Wines Enjoyed and Reviewed:
2000 Markgraf von Baden Durbacher Schloß Staufenberg Gewürztraminer Auslese
N.V. Moët & Chandon Champagne Brut Impérial
N.V. Billecart-Salmon Champagne Brut Rosé
2000 Reignac
1994 Bannockburn Pinot Noir
1999 Bernard Dugat-Py Bourgogne
1994 Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste
2003 Blason de l’Evangile
2004 Joseph Drouhin Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru
2001 Castello di Ama Chianti Classico

2000 Markgraf von Baden Durbacher Schloß Staufenberg Gewürztraminer Auslese
Germany, Baden
www.schwarzwaldfuehrer.de

W09042008. 13.0%. 100% Gewürztraminer. Auslese is a German Ripeness level where harvest of selected, and very ripe bunches. These noble wines are often intense in bouquet and taste with dessert wines are light and sweet, but they can be dry, medium dry or sweet. Dry Auslese wines are usually higher in alcohol as well. Aromas of honeysuckle, caramel, pineapple and spice. Medium-bodied, the palate was simple with plain melon flavors with little acidity and finish. Enjoyable now. Drink soon.

N.V. Moët & Chandon Champagne Brut Impérial
France, Champagne
www.moet.com

W09042008 TM. 12.0%. 100% Chardonnay. Quite ordinary, and nothing special. Don’t waste your time and money on this rude drink. Avoid.

N.V. Billecart-Salmon Champagne Brut Rosé
France, Champagne
www.champagne-billecart.fr

W09042008 TM. 12.0%. 100% Chardonnay. Excellent and addictive stuff and as a compliment, one of the best NV rose we have come across in 2008. Raspberry, toasty and orange peel. Full-bodied, with smooth bubbles, dry and a clean finish.

2000 Reignac
France, Bordeaux, Bordeaux Supérieur
www.reignac.com

In the words of Wine Advocate’s Robert Parker: “Reignac is the poster child for a modern-styled, “better than its pedigree” Bordeaux Superieur. The wine’s high quality is a testament to the exceptional commitment demonstrated by proprietor Yves Vatelot. This large (125 acres) hillside vineyard, planted in gravelly/clay soils, with yields are often lower than many classified growths’.”

Earlier tasting 05102007 HW. W09042008 HW. 13.0% A blend of 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon. Besides the charcoal feel of oak, green herbs with blackberry and chocolate flavors. Medium-bodied, a modern styled Bordeaux which displays espresso, light spice, toast, tart acidity with a short to medium finish. Enjoyable but this wine is best appreciated with decanting. Drink between 2004 and 2012.

1994 Bannockburn Pinot Noir
Australia, Victoria, Port Phillip, Geelong
www.bannockburnvineyards.com

W09042008 GO. 13.5%. 100% Pinot Noir. Pure floral violets intermingled with sharp notes of red bright strawberry and raspberry. Light to medium-bodied, solid to the rim with noticeable viscosity and kicks you in the glass. Little fruit, but with air, it carries some weight suggesting red currant, but fall short in complexity and depth. Still, a delightful wine and one of the best bargains encountered and better Australian based Pinots tasted to date. Short abrupt finish. Enjoyable now and drink soon.

1999 Bernard Dugat-Py Bourgogne
France, Burgundy, Gevrey-Chambertin
www.dugat-py.com

W09042008 GO. 12.5%. 100% Pinot Noir. Rich dark and red fruit (cherry, red currant) and a leathery nose. Medium to full bodied with some lush fruit, with medium acidity and tones of red fruit skin. This wine comes across as a lot of extract of a fairly simple flavor. Dry pinched finish. This Bourgogne rivals most other Bourgogne rouge, but the price points to a are a lot of other wines that offer more interesting profiles. Drink soon.

1994 Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste
France, Bordeaux, Médoc, Pauillac

W09042008 TM. 12.5%. 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, with 25% Merlot. In this vintage, only 55% of Grand-Puy-Lacoste’s harvest was utilized in 1994. Medium to full-bodied. A compelling, rich, multidimensional, broad-shouldered wine blessed by time and provenance. As compared to my earlier experience of 1999 to 2003, this Grand-Puy-Lacoste is a beauty. It is drinkable now and over the next decade. This classic Pauillac is a worthy rival with roundness, cigar/tobacco like aromas, sweet cassis fruit, excellent purity, and fine overall balance which was gorgeously proportioned. Good medium finish. Drink between 2003 and 2016.

2003 Blason de l’Evangile
France, Bordeaux, Libournais, Pomerol
www.lafite.com

W09042008 DLC. 12.5%. 65% Merlot and 35% Cabernet Franc with 15 months in oak before releasing some 2,000 to 3,000 cases a year. A pleasant medium-bodied wine (or cooking wine as what Daryl would describe this from our tasting panel) stuffed with coffee, caramel, vanilla, red cherry and red plums. Plush and rich with a clean and yet silky palate. Tannins still evident with a medium finish. Was a good value wine. Enjoyable now. Drink between 2008 to 2014.

2004 Joseph Drouhin Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru
France, Burgundy, Côte de Nuits
www.drouhin.com

Allen Meadows Burghound.com: Joseph Drouhin’s Véronique Drouhin characterized the 2004 vintage as “one in which we reduced our purchases because the quality just wasn’t there except among a handful of growers. In the vineyards that we own or manage, we had no particular problems with oidium or rot in general though of course there was nothing to be done about the hail. Indeed, we were so hard hit in Clos des Mouches that there isn’t one in 2004. The spring was relatively dry but there was plenty of rain in July and August so the maturities weren’t blocked. Thankfully, September was magnificent and it really saved the harvest as I can’t really imagine what quality would have been like without it. We began picking the reds in the Côte de Beaune on September 22nd and in the Côte de Nuits on September 28th. There was of course some fairly serious sorting to do but sugars were very good, in fact surprisingly good though the phenolic ripeness was just good enough to avoid dry and astringent wines. Overall, I like the style of the vintage a lot as it produced very transparent wines.”

Chambolle-Musigny is one of the minute appellations of the Côte de Nuits with some 155 hectares of vines, although given the tiny, fragmented nature of Burgundy vineyards, it manages to fit two exceptional Grand Crus (Bonnes Mares and Le Musigny) and a couple of dozen Premieres Crus. These wines are known for delicacy and tend to be light in body, but concentrated and with fragrant bouquets. French poet Gaston Roupnel describes Chambolle-Musigny as likening the region’s wines to “silk and lace.” View: Burgundy Wine Map – Chambolle-Musigny

W09042008 NJT. 13.0%. 100% Pinot Noir from 5 1er Cru vineyards which includes the plot ‘Les Baudes’. Extremely floral with candied violets, cherry and raspberry scents. Medium-bodied. A well integrated Pinot with a good balance of the above structural elements with medium acidity and finish. Look forward to the 2005 vintage. The 2005 will further perfect your palate in years to come. Enjoyable now. Drink between 2008 to 2013.

2001 Castello di Ama Chianti Classico
Italy, Tuscany, Chianti
www.castellodiama.com

Producer Notes: The 190 tons of grapes were harvested between the 9th and the 15th of October. The grapes, carefully selected, were crushed and destemmed. Fermentation proceeded regularly in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks between 30° and 33°C (86°-91°F). Frequent delicate pumpings-over during the entire fermentation process and extended maceration of 25 days. After the primary fermentation, 800 hectolitres of wine were drawn off mainly in French oak barrels to undergo malolactic fermentation. The wine was blended and then aged in French oak barrels, of which 30% were new and the rest one to three years old. The wine was then bottled during the month of April 2003.

W09042008 TH10042008 TM. 13.0%. 100% Sangiovese. Spice, leather and raspberry. Light to medium-bodied, it was accompanied by a smooth and dry mouth feel. Good evolution wine but lacks the depth and richness as compared to its later sibling, the 2004 as tasted in January 2008. Red currant coated short finish. Drinkable now. Drink between 2006 to 2011.

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Photograph and text by Daniel. Hit us with your best shots; we’ll try our best to listen. Send your inquiries or comments here or via email to jiuwine@gmail.com.