Bradenton, FL

Wine Tasting Event: Apr 5, 2025

A journey through the vineyards of the world at our unforgettable wine tasting event! From rich, velvety reds to elegant, aromatic gems, every sip told a story. Here’s a toast to the incredible wines we savored:

    2022 Gewurztraminer

    Albert Boxler

    The 2022 Gewurztraminer by Albert Boxler is a white wine crafted with artistry and tradition, epitomizing the unique character of Alsace's Gewurztraminer. This wine is a delightful expression of the region, delivering lush aromatics, complexity, and a touch of opulence.

    Tasting Notes

    Appearance: Pale gold with brilliant highlights.

    Aroma: Captivating aromas of lychee, rose petals, and tropical fruits, intertwined with subtle notes of honey and spice.

    Palate: Full-bodied and luscious, with a silky texture and well-balanced acidity. Bursting with flavors of ripe lychee, mango, and hints of ginger, leading to a long, aromatic finish.

    PAIRINGS

    Cheese: Munster, aged Brie, or Roquefort.

    Food: Spicy Asian dishes, duck à l’orange, or pork with apple compote.

    WHY CHOOSE THIS WINE?

    The 2022 Gewurztraminer by Albert Boxler showcases Alsace's exceptional ability to produce aromatic and richly textured wines. With its luxurious flavors, enchanting bouquet, and seamless balance, this wine offers an extraordinary experience that is both indulgent and versatile.

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    Key Details

    Wine Type: White

    Vintage: 2022

    Bottle Size: 750mL

    Region: Alsace

    Producer: Albert Boxler

    Winemaker: Jean Boxler

    Blend: Gewürztraminer

    Appellation: Bourgogne

    Country: France 

    Vineyard and Winemaking

    Vineyard:
    Grapes are sourced from Domaine Albert Boxler’s prized vineyards in Niedermorschwihr, Alsace. The vines, averaging 30–40 years old, are planted on steep slopes with optimal sun exposure, ensuring ripe, aromatic fruit.

    Soil:
    The vineyards are rooted in granite and sandstone soils, which contribute to the wine’s intense minerality and complexity. These soils are ideal for Gewurztraminer, allowing the grape to express its full aromatic potential.

    Aging:
    The wine is fermented in stainless steel tanks to preserve its vibrant fruit character and aromatic intensity. It is then aged on fine lees for several months to enhance texture and depth without compromising its freshness.

    Farming:
    Domaine Albert Boxler practices sustainable viticulture, with a focus on organic methods and minimal intervention. Hand-harvesting ensures that only the healthiest grapes are selected for winemaking.

    Alcohol Content:
    13.5%

    2023 Île de Beauté Rosé “E Croce”

    Yves Leccia

    The 2023 Île de Beauté Rosé “E Croce” by Yves Leccia is a vibrant and refreshing wine that captures the essence of Corsica's Mediterranean charm. This rosé is a testament to Yves Leccia's commitment to crafting wines that embody elegance, finesse, and a sense of place.

    TASTING NOTES

    Appearance: Delicate pale pink with coral reflections.

    Aroma: Inviting aromas of wild strawberries, red currants, and white peach, accented by hints of Mediterranean herbs and a touch of sea breeze minerality.

    Palate: Light-bodied and crisp, with a harmonious balance of fresh acidity and juicy fruit flavors. Notes of citrus, raspberry, and a subtle salinity lead to a clean, invigorating finish.

    PAIRINGS

    Cheese: Fresh goat cheese, ricotta, or burrata.

    Food: Grilled prawns, Niçoise salad, or summer vegetable tart.

    WHY CHOOSE THIS WINE?

    The 2023 Île de Beauté Rosé “E Croce” by Yves Leccia is a quintessential Corsican rosé, offering an irresistible blend of freshness, elegance, and complexity. Perfect for warm afternoons or light meals, this wine delivers a taste of the Mediterranean and a true reflection of its island terroir.

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    Key Details

    Wine Type: Rosé

    Vintage: 2023

    Bottle Size: 750mL

    Blend: 90% Niellucciu, 10% Grenache

    Appellation: Île de Beauté IGP

    Country: France

    Region: Corsica

    Producer: Yves Leccia

    Winemaker: Yves Leccia

    Vineyard and Winemaking

    Vineyard:

    • The vineyard, part of Yves Leccia’s “E Croce” estate, is nestled in the heart of Corsica, benefiting from a unique Mediterranean microclimate.
    • The vines are planted on schist and clay-limestone soils, which impart vibrant minerality and depth to the wine.

    Farming Practices:

    • Sustainable farming methods are employed, with a focus on environmental preservation and minimal intervention to maintain the vineyard’s natural balance.

    Winemaking:

    • Grapes are hand-harvested at optimal ripeness to retain their freshness and aromatics.
    • Vinified using temperature-controlled fermentation to enhance the wine’s vibrant fruit profile and delicate structure.
    • The 90% Niellucciu and 10% Grenache blend creates a rosé that is both expressive and elegant.

    Alcohol Content: 12.5%

    This wine is a true embodiment of Corsican terroir, crafted with precision and care by Yves Leccia to deliver an exceptional rosé experience.

    2022 Pinot Noir

    Albert Boxler

    The 2022 Pinot Noir by Albert Boxler is a red wine that captures the finesse and charm of Alsace's approach to this iconic varietal. With its vibrant character and elegant structure, this wine reflects the artistry and heritage of one of the region's most respected producers.

    TASTING NOTES

    Appearance: Bright garnet red with a luminous hue.

    Aroma: Aromas of red currants, wild strawberries, and black cherries, with delicate hints of forest floor and sweet spices.

    Palate: Light to medium-bodied with silky tannins and refreshing acidity. Flavors of juicy red berries, subtle earthiness, and a touch of clove lead to a graceful, lingering finish.

    PAIRINGS

    Cheese: Tomme de Savoie, Gruyère, or a mild goat cheese.

    Food: Herb-roasted chicken, duck breast with cherries, or wild mushroom risotto.

    WHY CHOOSE THIS WINE?

    The 2022 Pinot Noir by Albert Boxler offers a refined and elegant expression of Alsace's potential for this varietal. Its balanced structure, vivid fruit profile, and nuanced complexity make it a versatile choice for any occasion, from casual gatherings to sophisticated meals.

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    Key Details

    Producer: Albert Boxler
    Vintage: 2022
    Region: Alsace, France
    Varietal: Pinot Noir
    Style: Light to medium-bodied red wine
    Alcohol Content: ~12.5%
    Aging: Stainless steel and/or neutral oak for enhanced purity of fruit
    Serving Temperature: 55–60°F (13–15°C)
    Cellaring Potential: Enjoy now or age for up to 5–7 years
    Notable Features:

    • Hand-harvested grapes
    • Sustainable vineyard practices
    • Reflects the unique terroir of Alsace’s foothills
    Vineyard and Winemaking

    Vineyard

    The vineyards of Albert Boxler lie in the foothills of the Vosges Mountains, benefiting from a unique microclimate with sunny days and cool nights. The diverse soils of granite, clay, and limestone lend minerality and elegance to the wines.

    Winemaking

    Albert Boxler employs artisanal winemaking, hand-harvesting grapes at peak ripeness and using indigenous yeasts for fermentation. Aging in stainless steel and neutral oak enhances purity, balance, and finesse.

    Farming Practices

    Committed to sustainability, Albert Boxler practices minimal chemical use and promotes biodiversity. The estate relies on meticulous handwork in the vineyard to produce environmentally friendly and expressive wines.

    Aging Process

    The wine is aged in a mix of stainless steel and neutral oak barrels, preserving freshness and vibrant fruit flavors. This process ensures a refined texture and balance, highlighting the true character of Alsace Pinot Noir.

    2020 Chianti Classico

    Villa Di Geggiano

    The 2020 Chianti Classico by Villa di Geggiano is a red wine that embodies the soul of Tuscany’s Sangiovese. Crafted with a blend of tradition and modern elegance, this wine showcases the richness and heritage of the Chianti Classico region, offering a captivating and well-balanced experience.

    TASTING NOTES

    Appearance: Deep garnet red with a vibrant hue.

    Aroma: Enticing aromas of red cherries, blackberries, and dried herbs, complemented by hints of violet, leather, and a touch of spice.

    Palate: Medium to full-bodied with structured tannins and bright acidity. Flavors of ripe red fruits, subtle oak, and earthy undertones lead to a lingering, harmonious finish.

    PAIRINGS

    Cheese: Pecorino Toscano, Parmigiano-Reggiano, or aged Asiago.

    Food: Bistecca alla Fiorentina, wild mushroom risotto, or tomato-based pasta dishes like pappardelle al ragù.

    WHY CHOOSE THIS WINE?

    The 2020 Chianti Classico by Villa di Geggiano is a stellar representation of Tuscany’s winemaking heritage. Its vibrant flavors, balanced structure, and elegant profile make it a versatile choice for any occasion, offering a true taste of the Chianti Classico region.

    2020 Chianti Classico
    Key Details

    Producer: Villa di Geggiano
    Vintage: 2020
    Region: Chianti Classico, Tuscany, Italy
    Varietal: Predominantly Sangiovese
    Style: Medium to full-bodied red wine
    Alcohol Content: ~13.5%
    Aging: Aged in oak barrels for added complexity and structure
    Serving Temperature: 60–65°F (16–18°C)
    Cellaring Potential: Enjoy now or age for up to 8–10 years

    Notable Features:

    • Hand-harvested grapes
    • Certified organic vineyard practices
    • Represents the classic elegance and heritage of the Chianti Classico region
    Vineyard and Winemaking

    Vineyard
    The vineyards of Villa di Geggiano are located in the heart of the Chianti Classico region, benefiting from the rolling hills of Tuscany with optimal sun exposure and cooling breezes. The soils, rich in galestro and limestone, provide structure and elegance to the wines, showcasing the unique terroir of the area.

    Winemaking
    Villa di Geggiano combines traditional and modern winemaking techniques, hand-harvesting grapes at optimal ripeness and fermenting in temperature-controlled tanks. The wine is aged in oak barrels to enhance complexity and develop a balanced structure with refined tannins.

    Farming Practices
    The estate is certified organic, emphasizing environmentally friendly practices and biodiversity. Minimal intervention in both the vineyard and winery ensures a pure expression of the Sangiovese grape and the Chianti Classico region.

    Aging Process
    The wine undergoes aging in oak barrels, allowing for the integration of fruit, tannins, and subtle oak influence. This meticulous process creates a wine that is both vibrant and elegantly layered, with great aging potential.

    2021 Appassimento Rosso Passito

    Cancello del Barone

    Hailing from the prestigious Piedmont region of Italy, the 2021 Cancello del Barone Appassimento Rosso Passito is a full-bodied red wine crafted using the traditional appassimento method. This technique involves partially drying the grapes to concentrate their sugars and flavors, resulting in a wine that is rich, velvety, and indulgent. With notes of dried cherries, ripe plums, and a touch of dark chocolate, this wine delivers a luxurious tasting experience.

    Tasting Notes

    Appearance: Deep ruby red with garnet highlights.

    Aroma: Aromas of dried fruits like cherry and fig, complemented by hints of cocoa, vanilla, and sweet spice.

    Palate: Full-bodied and velvety, with concentrated flavors of ripe plum, blackcurrant, and a touch of dark chocolate. Balanced acidity and supple tannins lead to a long, smooth finish.

    Pairings

    Cheese: Gorgonzola, aged cheddar, or blue Stilton.

    Food: Dark chocolate truffles, tiramisu, or spiced nuts.

    Why Choose This Wine?

    The 2021 Cancello del Barone Appassimento Rosso Passito is a testament to the artistry of traditional Italian winemaking. Its rich and layered profile makes it an excellent pairing for roasted meats, hearty pasta dishes, or aged cheeses. It’s also an ideal choice for savoring on its own as a luxurious treat.

    2021 Cancello del Barone Appassimento Rosso Passito
    Key Details

    Wine Type: Red

    Vintage: 2021

    Bottle Size: 750mL

    Blend: Typically a blend of indigenous Piedmont varietals (specific blend may vary).

    Appellation: Piedmont IGT

    Country: Italy

    Region: Piedmont

    Producer: Cancello del Barone

    Alcohol: ~14.5%

    Vineyard and Winemaking

    Vineyard:

    Sourced from select vineyards in Piedmont, known for their high-quality grapes and ideal growing conditions.

    Soils are typically a mix of clay and limestone, contributing to the wine’s structure and minerality.

    Winemaking:

    The appassimento method is central to this wine’s production. Grapes are hand-harvested and then partially dried, intensifying their natural flavors and sugars.

    After fermentation, the wine is aged in oak barrels to enhance its complexity and add layers of vanilla and spice.