From Lazio (Rome) Italy
“Well-run co-operative wineries can be an excellent source of high-quality, inexpensive wines, and the Cincinnato winery, founded in 1947 and named after the ancient Roman senator and farmer Cincinnatus, is a perfect example. This small co-operative (126 growers, with a total of 250 hectares of vines), located an hour south-east of Rome near the town of Cori, uses native grape varieties such as Bellone and Nero Buono to produce flavorful, distinctive, well-made wines at very tempting prices. Finding great wines at higher prices is easy but finding wines this good at these prices is difficult and very satisfying. The soils here are reddish volcanic clays, found at between 100-250 meters above sea level. The growers will be certified organic by the 2019 harvest, and grape quality is encouraged with a strict set of parameters.”

$45 per person

1st Course
Fritto Misto with Lemon Aioli

Wine-Cincinnato ‘Brut’ Sparkling Wine
“Made entirely of Bellone, harvested on the early side to retain acidity. Normal primary fermentation with no malolactic, then a Charmat process second (sparkling wine) fermentation. Fairly dry, with a clean, bright aroma and palate impression, and clear citrus notes.”

2nd Course
Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom White Wine Sauce

Wine-Cincinnato Bellone ‘Castore’ White Wine
“Bellone ‘…is an outstanding grape variety, one of the best in Italy today…The wine has a telltale luscious texture and juicy acidity…and delightful honeyed, citrus, and tropical fruit aromas and flavors.’ (Ian d’Agata, Native Wine Grapes of Italy)”

Entrée
Porchetta with Red Pesto

Wine-Nero Buono ‘Pollùce’ Red Wine
“A beautiful dusty plum hue sits in the glass with bursting aromas of black plum and raspberries, ?oral notes of lilac and rose complemented by hints of cedar, black tea and slate. On the palate, ?avors of red fruits, cranberries, grapefruit and cherry cola sync with a bright and fresh acidity—a lively ?nish that lingers.”

Dessert
Almond Citrus Olive Oil Cake