I am very particular about Due Baci. Italian for “Two Kisses”, I first made this blend (only about 5 cases of it) in 2008 from vintage 2006 estate grapes. The occasion was my wedding to my soul mate and muse, Julianne. Our guests liked it so much I decided to continue producing it. The last time I produced a Due Baci blend was from vintage 2018…like I said, I’m particular about it. This vintage is a blend of 70% Sangiovese and 30% Aglianico. I make this wine to be an interesting juxtaposition of bright, dry and lean, perfect for one of my favorite winter meals, which includes a spicy marinara sauce, gobs of Italian cheeses and some well seasoned chicken. Only 140 cases produced. Retail: $35/bottle,

Chicago Park Wine Society Price: $28/bottle

As with many things related to Italian wine varietals, no one really knows how the Piedmonte grape Nebbiolo got its name. One theory is that it is related to a dense fog that is prevalent during fall harvest season in the Langhe region where much of Nebbiolo is grown (fog in Italian is “nebbia”). I prefer the idea that it comes from the Italian for “Nobile”, meaning Noble. Nebbiolo is a notoriously hard grape to grow well. That there are only 155 acres of it grown in California is testament that not too many vineyardists even try.

This vintage of Nebbiolo follows in the footsteps of our Cal State Fair “Best of Class” 2013 Nebbiolo. It is somewhat lighter in color than most California Nebbiolos, almost bordering on being “rose-ish”. As often happens with Nebbiolo, its light color is deceiving, this wine has the body, mouthfeel and complex flavor profile of a high-end Pinot Noir, only with more of what I’d refer to as “Christmas” spices like nutmeg and clove on the nose. Moderately dry in the finish, and noticeable bright cherry in the mid-palate. Additional note: It has always been my goal to grow all my own fruit here in Chicago Park. I’ll be the first to admit that it is taking me a lot longer to get there than I originally thought it would. Nebbiolo is not a varietal that I believe will do well here, so I haven’t planted it. As such, this is likely to be our final vintage of Nebbiolo. Retail: $35/bottle, Chicago Park Wine Society Price: $28/bottle

What: Chicago Park Wine Society 1st Quarter Release
When: Saturday, February 4th 1-4pm
Where: Montoliva Vineyard & Winery 15629 Mount Olive Road, Chicago Park, California
What’s Up: As I often do with release events, I’ll be opening a couple of past vintages of Due Baci and perhaps even an original 2008 Due Baci (the Wedding Wine).