Before leaving Washington for Monaco, I did a little “research” and tasted several under $50.00 bottles of wine from Bolgheri.  One particular wine captivated me with its seductive nature, perfect balance and overall elegance – – Argentiera.  It was the 2007 bottling that absolutely floored me.  When Argentiera was confirmed as part of our excursion in Bolgheri, I really got excited so much so that I needed to do more “research” to be sure this wine was as awesome as the first bottle.  Several bottles later, it was official – – this wine ROCKED!!!  I love my job!!!

 

 April 20th

Bolgheri, Italy

At last wine country and not just any but, Bolgheri.  This is where Super Tuscans under the Indicazione Geografica Tipica (IGT) classification set in motion, winegrowers’ artistic brilliance and where the rules set in place by the traditional classifications of Denominazione di Origine Controllata (e Garantita) – DOC (G) were expanded upon.   I find it very interesting and somewhat amusing, the parallels between the classifications and those between the classical Leonardo Da Vinci and the maverick Raffaello Sanzio da Urbino (Raphael).  Each are wonderful explorations in search of the divine.  And I must say, I truly enjoy consuming Italian wines while viewing works of art by Lenoardo Da Vinci and Raphael.

The time finally arrived to head out into the countryside to visit Argentiera.  After a long and beautiful scenic drive hugging the coast, with stunning views of distance islands, we reached the small town of Bolgheri.  I’d seen pictures of the tree lined road leading into the town but to experience it in person was something beautiful and very peaceful.  As we arrived so did the rain.  My initial thought was, “why today and why now” but, as the showers started to subside, the earthy and herbaceous bouquet in the air reminded me of the wines from this region and once again the notion of allowing “Nature” to do what “Nature” does spoke loud and clear.

 

Once we entered the town of Bolgheri we discovered a stillness that only a sudden downpour or a siesta could produce, I believe we received both.  While most of the businesses appeared to be closed, we managed to find a small terracotta workshop which I found fascinating.  We were invited in to view this craftsman’s amazing work and to get a true sense of the patience and attention to detail involved to create these beautiful pieces.  The characteristics expressed through his personal creativity are also those I think of when consuming the wine of Bolgheri.

 

 

 

 

 

After spending time in the town of Bolgheri, we headed to Argentiera.  I’m still blown away by the views from this amazing property.  Here are a few photos and be sure to click on Tenuta Argentiera below to visit the site.

 

Welcome to: Tenuta Argentiera

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By incorporating traditional French varietals these mavericks in Bolgheri have created a formula that excites and stimulates the palate without compromising natural techniques that have been employed for centuries.   Thanks to the innovation of these mavericks, an invitation has been extended to those less familiar with the old world wines via the styling of Bolgheri.  I do hope you make time to try the wines of Bolgheri.

 

Here are two souvenirs from my travels to Argentiera:  Giorgio Bartholomäus & Villa Donoratico – Olive oil

 

 

Up next – – Special wine tasting & Dinner aboard Silversea.

 

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