Wine & Cheese by TCC’s August 2014 Wine Club
This month, we are proud to bring you two selections from Abruzzo, Italy from MGM/Mondo del
Vino vintners. Their “La Piuma” (or “feather” in Italian) line of wines are made from estate
owned vineyards with an emphasis on value. MGM is a family owned company founded by Alfeo
Martini. MGM is among the most eco-conscious producers in Italy today. Their state-of-the-art
production facility in Priocca (Piedmonte) is powered by solar panels. In addition, they are the
recipients of the internationally recognized ICEA certificate for the production of organic wine.
La Piuma wines have received numerous international awards including, most recently, the
coveted Mundus Vini gold medal for the Sangiovese di Romagna.
The Abruzzo region has a highly varied landscape, ranging from the coast to mountains up to
3000 meters high. This leads to a breezy climate and large differences in temperature between
night and day - very favorable conditions for winemaking. The main varieties grown in the four
provincial areas of the region are the traditional Montepulciano, Trebbiano d’Abruzzo,
Sangiovese and Chardonnay. Vineyards cover a total area of about 31,000 hectares and 2.2
million hectolitres of wine are produced by over 50,000 wineries.
Our first selection is the La Piuma Pecorino from the Terre di Chieti sub region of Abruzzo.
Pecorino is the grape name and is one of the 250 indigenous grape varietals in Italy. The wine is
complex with aromas of baked almonds and citrus, with flavors of ripe melon and nectarine and a
refreshing finish. Try with our Caprese, Flatbread and Seared Diver Scallops. For this month’s
cheese club selection, pair with the Alemar Good Thunder. The ripe fruit and refreshing acidity
of the wine pair nicely with this nutty, robust cheese.
Our second selection is the La Piuma Montepulciano d’Abruzzo. Montepulciano is another one of
those indigenous Italian grapes. A very full-bodied style, this wine has lots of dark fruit, floral
and spice notes. Enjoy with our Carpaccio of Grass-fed Filet Mignon, BLTCC and Tomato Bisque.
For this month’s cheese club selection, pair with the Alemar Bent River. The rich dark fruit and
spice of the wine marry nicely with the savory notes of the cheese.
Have a great month!
The Gang at TCC
24104 W. Lockport Street Plainfield, IL 60544
(815) 436-3499
www.wcbytcc.com
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