Castello di Gabbiano and a slick flick
By Darryl Beeson
Castello di Gabbiano and Chef Claud Mann of the TBS "Dinner
& a Movie" fame, recently rolled out the "rosso" carpet for some of America's
most beloved Italian films, all available through neighborhood or enternet
rental, pairing food, wine and film so you can leave those somewhat average
Friday Nights behind. Chef Mann has created tips on how to orchestrate an
Italian theme night at home, sharing five perfect recipes via the Gabbiano
website that pair with your favorite Italian-related movie and one of the
Gabbiano wines. Call some friends now. No need to call for pizza delivery.
"I assure you that these recipes can be created at home by the average person,"
says Chef Mann. "I've done these sort of recipes with inexperienced guest hosts
to the TBS show," says Mann. This writer might require the Father, Son and the
Host to accomplish said recipes, but trust Chef Mann and give these creations a
try. Whenever great wine is served, people will be happy with the culinary
results.
A portion of the proceeds from the "Gabbiano Nights" public screening series has
gone towards an important Cancer Relief charity that writes checks daily and
directly to related family needs. For every viewing of
www.gabbiano.com, going to Gabbiano (K)nights, the result is a dollar
donation to the important cancer charity. Tell your friends to click, and click
again, for Chef Mann's recipes, well suited for these wines. "These selections
have excellent acidity and expresion of ripe, complex flavors," says the Chef,
"being perfect with food."
Gabbiano Chianti, Tuscany 2005
Price $11
Rating 87
The nose is subtle with mushroom aromas. The sip is bright with red cherry and
bright, ripe cherry tomato. There are elements of red licorice of pepper in the
medium length.
Construction of the Castello began in 1124 and included a wine cellar intended
for the production and conservation of wine. The existence of the wine cellar is
proof that wine was being made at the estate from the beginning of its history.
The estate's original owners, the Bardis, were one of the wealthiest Florentine
banking families.
Gabbiano Chianti Classico, Tuscany 2003
Price $13
Rating 89
The nose is earthy. The sip offers a spectrum of black cherry, black licorice,
plum and earthy tar. There is a good length on the palate. This is a serious
food wine for interesting combinations.
Throughout its colorful history, Tuscany has been a land of important artists
and scientists, talented and forward-thinking merchants, and powerful
politicians. Its castles, culture, and natural wonders make it a unique and
memorable destination for millions of tourists every year.
Gabbiano Chianti Classico Riserva, Tuscany 2002
Price $25
Rating 90
The nose is rich with dark fruit, earthy tar and dried mushroom. The sip is
chewy with black cherry, anise, licorice, candied citrus and earthy tar through
the long, finish. The blend is primarily of Sangiovese and Canaiolo.
In 1505, the Soderinis added the round towers to the Castello Gabbiano's four
corners. The round towers are an example of the influence of French
architectural style. It was during the Soderini era that the castle (circa 1124)
was transformed into a structure very similar to the one that stands today. In
1506, when the township of Bolgna urged the rulers (seigniory) of Florence to
send Michelangelo to Bologna, it was Castello di Gabbiano's Pier Soderini who
wrote a letter of introduction for Michelangelo. It said: "The bearer of this
letter is the sculptor Michelangelo. We place him at your disposal to serve His
Holiness, Our lord. We bear witness that he is a very talented young man and
second to none as regards to art in Italy and maybe in the whole world. It is
not possible for us to recommend him warmly enough; he is so good natured that,
with gentleness and friendship, you can obtain all you want from him. You must
treat him lovingly and kindly and he will make things that will amaze everyone
who will see them."
Gabbiano "Alleanza" Tuscany 2000
Price $35
Rating 90
The "Alleanza" is made by a joint winemaking partnership between Ed Sbragia,
winemaster for California's Beringer Vineyards and Giancarlo Roman, winemaker
for Tuscany's Castello di Gabbiano. Sbragia contributed his expertise with
French barrique, ellecting when and how long the wine should age, while
Giancarlo, with over 30 years of experience making classic Tuscan wines,
provided his expertise regarding the Sangiovese grape.
"The wine was aged 16 months in a combination of new and seasoned French
barrique, and then released after six months of bottle aging," says Sbragia.
The deep ruby red Alleanza 2000 is a blend of 50% Sangiovese, 40% Merlot and 10%
Cabernet Sauvignon. Aromas of violets and black cherries with fragrant hints of
nutmeg, tobacco and licorice fill the nose. Balanced and full-bodied, this wine
displays acidity plus flavors of ripe plum and vanilla spice edges. Soft tannins
give way to a long finish with a hint of cocoa. "Enjoy with braised meats,
roasted game dishes, as well as aged cheeses," suggests Roman.
---
Darryl Beeson travels the world looking for great food,
wine, spirits and the unique destinations that provide such. He is American
editor of
www.wineontheweb.com and teaches for The International Sommelier Guild at
www.internationalsommelier.com . |
|
