Valentini Wine Tasting at Wine Watch
Friday, April 27, 2012 - 07:00 PM
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Valentini - The Undisputed KING of Montepulciano D'Abruzzo
Friday, April 27th
7pm
First a dazzling display of the world's greatest Trebbiano. I remember the 1984 vintage that I bought on closeout 10 years ago. Half of the bottles were off but the ones that were good reminded me of the finest white burgundy Le Montrachet in richness and complexity.
Valentini’s Trebbiano is unique as it is believed to be made from a clone of the grape which is exclusive to Valentini. I would have to agree as the character of his Trebbiano is the most unique that I have tasted bearing virtually no resemblance to some of the more common offerings from this region. Valentini believed that the Trebbiano varietal brought out the most profound character of the Abruzzo's terroir.
Valentini Trebbiano d'Abruzzo 2004
(90 Points) The 2004 Trebbiano d’Abruzzo reveals compelling notes of earthiness, smoke, spices, honey and ripe peaches and apricots. It offers outstanding length and richness on the palate with finessed tannins and a sweet, resonating finish. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2014.
Valentini is among the handful of producers who continues to make his wines in a rigorously traditional, artisan fashion. Sadly Edoardo Valentini passed away in 2006, but his son Francesco continues to run this small property. The estate’s wines have attained a cult status among wine lovers and can be hard to find, not to mention very expensive. At their finest, they offer a very personal expression of Trebbiano and Montepulciano from Abruzzo although bottle variation can be an issue. Readers should also be on the lookout for the Cerasuolo, which is one of Italy’s most delicious ros?s. Wine Advocate #175, Feb 2008
Valentini Trebbiano d'Abruzzo 2003
Valentini Trebbiano d'Abruzzo 1999
(92 Points) Racy and fascinating, with mineral, honey, lime and floral aromas. Full-bodied, with lively acidity and a long, delicious finish. Stylish yet honest. I really like this. Drink now. –JS Wine Spectator Issue: Web Only - 2004
One of Italy’s most sought-after collectibles Valentini's Montepulciano meriting trophy status in the cellar of any Italian wine collector. One of the things that I miss the most about not traveling to Italy for Vin Italy over the last few years is not being able to expand my personal collection of Valentini’s wines as Italy's top restaurants are the best place to find these wines at reasonable prices.
Valentino's Montepulciano is a provocatively rustic version of this varietal made from late-harvest grapes. It is crafted exclusively in exceptional vintage years and there are a few great producers that make this claim but there is no producer that I know of that only made wine 5 vintages out of 10 in the 1980's. This extremely quality minded montra and its minute production figure render it one of the most difficult cult bottlings to acquire. While delivering a powerful wine upon release, as with Valentini’s Trebbiano, the Montepulciano requires several years to develop its full profile; a significant period of aeration is recommended when opening the wine at any age and the vintages that are held in the highest regard by collectors are ’75, 85, ’88, ’90, ’92, and ’97.
Valentino Montepulciano D'Abruzzo 2001
Valentino Montepulciano D'Abruzzo 2000
Valentino Montepulciano D'Abruzzo 1990
Valentino Montepulciano D'Abruzzo 1988
Valentino Montepulciano D'Abruzzo 1985
Valentino Montepulciano D'Abruzzo 1975
Menu
Selection of cheese: Beemster Gouda, Parmigiano-Reggiano, St. Andre
Orange Marmalade Seared Scallops served with rosemary scented couscous and citrus beurre blanc
Montepulciano braised Short ribs over roasted pepper mole sauce served with all-spice laced savory brie bread pudding
The fee for this tasting is $275 + Tax, for reservations call 954-523-9463.
