Luccarelli Primitivo , 2005

Luccarelli Primitivo , 2005

Puglia is in the South of Italy, located in the "heel" portion of the country. Primitivo, which is has been proven to be genetically the same as Zinfandel, is grown and made into lush, fat, cherry-fruit-laden reds which are best drunk young. The color is a deep red that is almost opaque. The aromas and flavors are decidedly red cherry and cranberry, with a hint of vanilla and spice. We enjoyed this Italian Red at the The Purple Café and Wine Bar, in Kirkland, this evening. This is an easy drinking, food friendly wine that should have mass appeal. We enjoyed this with Baked Brie with Apricots and some Spicy Boar Meatballs in Tomato Sauce.

Cantele Salice Salentino Reserva, 2003

Cantele Salice Salentino Reserva, 2003

This red wine from Puglia, in Southern Italy, is a blend of 85% Negroamaro and 15% Malvasia Nera. The color is ruby red with dark garnet highlights. This is a medium bodied wine that has beautiful aromas of dark cherries, black tea and spice. This is a luscious wine with the taste of fresh dark berries and caramelized plums and hints of cedar. In the mouth there is an explosion of fresh acidity that is keenly balanced by well developed tannins. This wine pairs well with any aged cheese or a hardy dish with tomato sauce, spicy peppers and capers! This Salice Salentino is ready to drink immediately or will keep for 3-4 years. Available at Pete's Wine Store, in Bellevue, for about $10. A excellent "quality" spaghetti wine!

Cantele Primitivo, 2005

Cantele Primitivo, 2005

The color is a lively ruby red with delicate garnet reflections. The bouquet is mineral with undertones of cherries and plums and the finish is of flowers and spices. Soft tannins, good acidity and the soft mouth feel are characteristics of this lovely Primitivo. This is a medium bodied red that is delicious by it's self or will pair well with dishes like pasta with red sauce or any red meats including lamb. This wine ready to drink immediately or will keep for 3-4 years, if you must. We bought this at Esquin Wines, in Seattle for about $10. This is another great wine from Salento in the southern part of Puglia, Italy. Add Cantele to your list.

N.Y. Giants Win Super Bowl!

We had a fun pizza party for Super Bowl Sunday and to our delight the Giants won! I made four different pizzas that were much better than what Domino's has to offer. Here is a picture of the "White Pizza" with Spinach, Ricotta, Fresh Mozzarella and Prosciutto. Yum!