It was a beautiful October evening. We had two guests in town and had spent the week going to nice restaurants, so were ready for something a little different.
We decided to visit the Toledo Museum of Art’s Glass Pavilion for their wine tasting event. The museum is impressive to visitors and our guests immediately loved the look and feel of the all-glass structure and the hot shop was a hotspot of activity since master glass maker Mark Matthews was presenting. The night’s event was being held under the stars in the courtyard. 55 Degrees reps from Cleveland, along with the museum’s wonderful event staff were ready to pour a selection of Venetian wines. In addition, there was a wonderful spread of diverse appetizers including a type of pineapple crab cake, asparagus spears with prosciutto, and other delectable treats – plenty of food to go along with the wine. Following are tasting notes on the evening’s offerings:
1. Vignalta Colle Euganei Chardonnay 2007 (Chardonnay from the Padova Hills “Colli Euganei”) Distinct apricot and pear notes, slight oak on the front with a bitter finish. Did not appeal to our group of tasters, but they are not normally chardonnay lovers anyway.
2. Novaia Valpolicella Classico Ripasso (Blend of Corvina-Rondinella “Appasimento” style) We were immediately taken aback when the wine was served chilled, very chilled. Fruity front which dissipated immediately into a completely nonexistent finish.
3. Bastianich Vespa Roso (Blend of Merlot-Refosco-Cabernet Sauvignon-Cabernet Franc) I could deal with the first two, anticipating that glory was on its way. When attending wine tastings, I fully expect to get through the first two before discovering something delicious. This bold, full-bodied blend was worth the wait. The Cab Franc pops immediately with a smooth and luxurious feel that is enhanced by the bold peppers. Very strong middle, it was noted, because this is unusual – we usually expect the front and the finish, but this wine was pronounced all the way through and finished soft and dry. We practically raced to the tasting station for a second glass.
4. Novaia Recioto Della Valpolicella (Blend of Corvina-Rondinella Late Harvest) Dessert wine – well, not exactly. We were told that Italians drink this like water by the gallon, beginning first thing in the morning – sure wish this was acceptable in this country;) What a wonderful surprise – this was indeed my type of dessert wine. Strong and beautiful mocha chocolate bouquet with a port style front. Not at all syrupy, just a really pleasant and smooth drink. A great wine to wrap up the tasting.
We enjoyed the dessert wine in the hotshop and watched a bit of the demonstration. It was a great way to end a pleasant evening. The museum even focused on a Venetian glass collection to go along with the evening’s theme. The wine tasting events occur a few times throughout the year (check http://www.toledomuseum.org/glass-pavilion for dates and details). Highly recommended as a special evening out, or just something different to kick off the weekend for just $20 ($15 for members). The museum event staff is extremely hospitable and accommodating, and they pay attention to the details necessary to keep guests coming back for more.
1 comment:
Thanks for a good comment about Recioto... Only one thing: normally we are not exactly use to drink it in the morning.... :-)
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