We started the evening with a French Chateau Laubespin Rosé. Lucus’ presentation was lively with a sprinkling of history and news of the different areas and permitted grape varieties grown in each place, as he took us through an evening of Italian and Spanish wines.
The evening was well attended with 37 attendees, and the grape varieties were an interesting mix, as were the mixes of the different/familiar varieties.
It certainly made for an entertaining evening, especially the unexpected introduction to a Balsamic at supper time. This was a ground level product, and one that the Italians used as a digestive, by having a teaspoonful after their meal!. It was certainly NOT the quality of product NZers are familiar with. It was so much better with a depth of sweetness akin to that of date, rather than sugar, sweetness and was thick and creamy.
A reminder of the tastings we had during the evening:
- 2023 Rosé Laubespin – 100% Cabernet Sauvignon (Medoc, France)
- 2021 Guizzo ‘Padre Rinengato’ Spumante Brut Nature (Valdobbiadene, Italy)
- 2023 Donnafugata Sur Sur Grillo (Sicily, Italy)
- NV Gonzalo de Berceo white Tempranillo (Rioja, Spain)
- 2020 Contepassi Super Tuscan – Sangiovese, Cabernet, Merlot (Tuscany Italy)
- 2023 Poggio Apricale Super Tuscan – Sangiovese, Merlot, Colorino (Montalcino, Italy)
- 2017 ‘Voche’ Graciano Selección (Rioja, Spain)
- PLUS, a special treat, a Balsamic aged in French oak for 30-years!
This tasting was clearly enjoyed, with the different grape varieties and areas they are grown in sparking conversations all evening. Del Munto received 17 orders from members which reflected just how much they enjoyed the evening.