My Blog: Bellissimo Brunello Tasting Event
May 19th, 2011
Last night's event at City Winery in NYC — Bellissimo Brunello — was a blast. The weather was terrible with loads of rain, but 500 or so Brunello lovers packed into the venue and tasted about 40 different wines, all from the great 2006 vintage. As you know, 2006 is a great year. I think it is a modern 1997 — the legendary benchmark for Tuscan Sangiovese and, of course, Brunello.
I am not going to go through the list of wineries pouring, but about two dozen winemakers themselves attended. They were all very excited to have such a select and very keen group of people tasting. "It's the highest level of people attending a tasting that I have been to," said GIancarlo Pacenti of Siro Pacenti.
What I really loved about the tasitng was that it was focused on one topic. People at the event were there to tasting Brunello because they loved Brunello. And they also had the opportunity to meet many of the winemakers.
It's part of my hope to bring all of us closer to the people and place of wine though firsthand experiences like Bellissimo Brunello and high-definition videos. It's not just tasting notes and points anymore.
Thanks for coming if you attended last night. If you didn't, I look forward to seeing you at another event somewhere in the world! Thanks again to Zachys Wine & Liquor for all the great backup for the event; it's a dedicated Brunello retailer.
Comments
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Subscribebluetkt
May 19, 2011
Do one in DC on the Weekend and I will attend. Philly works well too
prenaud
May 19, 2011
James, I had the honour of attending last night. The evening was truly special. The evening had a great energy, and it was so nice to meet the wine makers. You are right. It is not just about scores, all the wines showed extremely well and everyone had a smile on their face. Thank you James and Zacky's for putting on such a great even. One for the record books.
PrimordialOne
May 20, 2011
A great time, James! Fully enjoyed the evening, keep up the great work!
Ttorgerson
May 20, 2011
James - congratulations on putting together such an awesome event. The wine poured was truly amazing. That said, the high point for me was meeting world class wine makers such as Lamberto, Siro and Giacomo. All true gentlemen with a passion for wine. The fact that they were so approachable and excited to share their wine was impressive indeed. The event was well worth the trip from Houston. Cheers! - Todd.
jerryrosenblatt
May 20, 2011
James, it was truly an amazing night! Great wines, interesting people, and of course, a rare opportunity to speak with the owners of the vineyards in a casual tasting environment. I have met Giacomo and Lamberto on a number of occasions, and it never gets "old" - in fact it just get better. Thanks for opportunity.
I think this VIP tasting was the "deal of the century", given the bonus of the annual membership. I've made the offer before, and I'll make it again - next time you're in our fair city (Montreal), my wife and I would love to take you to one of the best BYOW's and share one of my treasures with you! Ciao!