December 17, 2010 1:31 pm

Wine of the Day: Grande Dalles 2008 Gampo

Grande Dalles Gampo is a remarkably delicious wine an even more remarkable story behind it. Produced in the heart of Oregon's Columbia Valley, this wine represents the heart and soul of winemakers Stephanie LaMonica and Scott Elder, a couple who finally opened the vineyard of their dreams to produce different varieties of amazing wine. Like many other wine producers, LaMonica and Elder have realized that the cool climate of Oregon is ideal for more than just Pinot Noir, and they have begun experimenting by producing Old World varietals in New World style.

The inspiration of this wine is actually LaMonica's Italian grandfather, whom she lovingly referred to as Gampo. Grande Dalles Gampo is composed of an Old World blend of 80% Sangiovese (a Brunello clone), 17% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 3% Cabernet Franc. With beautiful ruby coloring and the earthy aromas of red fruits and leather, Gampo has exceptionally fine tannins and has subtle flavors of cherry, espresso, walnut and olives. Because it is primarily made from the Tuscan grape variety Sangiovese, Grande Dalles Gampo pairs beautifully with traditional Italian dishes made with truffles, braised game such as rabbit or boar, osso buco or anything with a tomato-based sauce.

Tip: Currently Grande Dalles Gampo can only be ordered online, but check out the Holiday Promotion to buy a 3 Bottle Sampler Pack. After the New Year, you'll be able to find Gampo as well as their other varieties in various NYC stores and restaurants.

Photo credit: Grande Dalles

— Written by Valerie Cario

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Tags : Grande Dalles Gampo, Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Stephanie LaMonica, Scott Elder

June 22, 2010 8:48 am

Wine of the Day: B Cellars Blend 24

If you're anything like me, you've been craving a good burger ever since the temperatures outside hit 70. But gorging yourself on a delicious meaty sandwich does not always mean you have to leave class at the door. Enter B Cellars Blend 24 from 2005, a glorious blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sangiovese and Petite Syrah. With notes of currents, black cherry, mineral, sage and smoked bacon, it's the perfect match for a juicy burger or discreetly charred steak.

The best part? Since this wine is not as young as some of its counterparts, it is best sipped slowly between 2010 and 2016. Tip: If you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen and into the wild with this wine! Since it has smooth, rich undertones, it'll pair nicely with a roaring campfire and ghost stories.

Photo credit: hitimewine.net

— Written by Kaitlin A. Lipe

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Tags : burger, b cellars, merlot, cabernet sauvignon, sangiovese, petit sirah