Simon Pearce Wine Dinner Series: Ancient Varietals of Campania February 9, 2012

Buongiorno, Amici!

When you think of the breathtaking landscapes of Italy, what comes to mind? Abundant vineyards? Amazing cuisine? Dramatic oceanscapes? How about volcanoes? That is what you will find in the Campania region of Southern Italy: Mount Vesuvius, a volcano that has, historically, erupted nearly every 2,000 years and may surprise us in our lifetime by coming to life again. From atop the feet of layered ash and pumice left behind after the last massive eruption of "Vesuvio" in 79 a.d., came a land so fertile, verdant, and lush that legends were born. One such legend states that as Jesus Christ was ascending toward Heaven he flew over this landscape and was so taken by it's beauty that he wept tears of joy. And while you may or may not believe that story, when you experience this spectacular region for the first time, it may, in fact, bring you to tears!

Located in the tiny village of Sorbo Serpico in Campania's Irpinia region and within close proximity to Mount Vesuvius is the Feudi di San Gregorio estate, established in 1986. Feudi is Campania's premier winemaking estate and they are known for being ahead of their time in advancements and innovation in winemaking. Feudi's winemakers have tapped into the incredible potential of Campania's unique and ancient varietals. The land is layered with mineral-rich deposits of volcanic ash which are remarkably flavorful to vines and produce many varietals with very distinctive notes and aromas. Many of the vines used by Feudi di San Gregorio are centuries old, including the oldest Aglianico vines in the country. Our host, Maurizio de Rosa, is a passionate and enthusiastic educator and provides his wealth of knowledge on the history of the country and region.

Chef Joshua has composed an authentic menu to pair with these magnificent wines that will transport you to another time, make you feel the warmth of true Italian hospitality, and perhaps even smell the aromas of the sea and ever-abundant lemons that perfume the Southern Italian air. For your pleasure, our menu for the evening is:

Grilled Scamorza and Crispy Prosciutto
Arugula, ciabatta, cipollini marmellata
Greco di Tufo, "DUBL" 2006, Vino Spumante di Qualita

Maine Shrimp and Point Judith Calamari
Citrus risotto, tarragon olive oil
Greco di Tufo, 2009, Greco di Tufo DOCG

Veal Braciola
Raisins, pine nuts, chick peas, Maplebrook Farms ricotta,
roasted tomato cream
Aglianico, "Rubrato" 2007, Irpina/Aglianico IGT

Grilled Beef Short Ribs
Eggplant, escarole, roasted chestnut polenta, white balsamic
porcini reduction
Aglianico, "Taurasi" 2006, Taurasi DOCG

Wild Flower Honey Zabaglione
Golden figs, shaved white chocolate & almond lace
Fiano/Falanghina, "Privilegio" 2007, Campania Bianco IGT

Buon Appetito!