Here, I share my news, opinions and musings as I journey with you through the world of wine. These articles are inspired by courses I teach, publications I read and write for, events I attend, and Masterclasses I deliver. I hope that you will find them insightful and thought-provoking! Do not hesitate to contact me with your comments at: contact@grandepassione.com.

Ca del Bosco Goes to Japan…
Articles, Tasting Notes, Italy JC Viens Articles, Tasting Notes, Italy JC Viens

Ca del Bosco Goes to Japan…

That Maurizio Zanella is considered a visionary when it comes to Italy’s Franciacorta is conventional wisdom. That his vision also extends to Japan is fascinating.

Visionary and uncompromising, determined and focused, Maurizio Zanella, the founder of Ca’ del Bosco, created one of Italy's most respected wine brands today. Over two days of extensive tastings in Tokyo, Spirito diVino Asia had close contact with this Icon of Italian wine and an exclusive and personal look at the secret of his success.

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ARPEPE, Finally, I fell in Love with Nebbiolo!
Article, Italy, Tasting Notes JC Viens Article, Italy, Tasting Notes JC Viens

ARPEPE, Finally, I fell in Love with Nebbiolo!

I am not shy to admit that, until last April, my love affair with Nebbiolo, the grape responsible for the wines of Barolo and Barbaresco, was not on solid grounds. But, a meeting with ArPePe's Isabella Pelizzatti Perego at Vinitaly in Verona changed that forever...

I was struck by their elegance and restraint, purity, and finesse through a tasting of 9 of her wines, all made with 100% Nebbiolo. Everything about the feminine side of Nebbiolo I had so often heard about came alive in a magnificent way that I had never experienced before.

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