&nbsp;

Paola Bea is a legendary figure in the world of Italian wine, particularly in Umbria. The family is renowned for their commitment to natural winemaking and has been instrumental in establishing the reputation of Sagrantino di Montefalco as one of Italy&#39;s most distinctive wines.

The Paola Bea estate, located near the town of Montefalco, has been in the family for generations. However, it was under Paola&#39;s stewardship that it gained international recognition. The vineyards are farmed organically without any chemical intervention and minimal mechanization.

Paola Bea wines are known for their intense character and depth of flavor. They reflect not only the unique terroir but also Paola&#39;s dedication to traditional winemaking methods such as long maceration periods and aging in large oak barrels.

His approach results in wines that are expressive, complex, and have a strong sense of place &ndash; characteristics highly valued by wine enthusiasts worldwide. Whether you&#39;re tasting the acclaimed Sagrantino or lesser-known blends like San Valentino Palo Bea, you can expect an authentic representation of Umbrian viticulture at its finest from this esteemed producer.

Review of San Valentino Palo Bea

San Valentino is a highly esteemed winery located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. Known for its dedication to organic and biodynamic farming practices, this producer has carved out a niche for itself as an innovative and sustainable wine creator. The vineyard was established by Umberto Cesari in 1965, who passionately believed in the potential of Sangiovese grapes from Romagna.

Color:

The San Valentino Palo Bea presents a rich, deep ruby red color that is almost opaque. This intense hue hints at the concentration and complexity within each bottle.

Nose:

On the nose, this wine offers an enticing blend of ripe black fruits like cherries and plums mingled with earthy undertones of leather and tobacco. There are also delightful notes of spices such as clove and cinnamon which add depth to its aromatic profile.

Tannins:

The tannins in San Valentino Palo Bea are well-structured yet supple, providing a robust backbone without overwhelming the palate. They contribute to its full-bodied nature while ensuring longevity for cellaring.

Taste:

Upon tasting, one can expect an explosion of flavors echoing those on the nose - ripe dark fruits layered with spice and earthy nuances. The finish is long-lasting with hints of sweet vanilla oak from barrel aging.

Critic Score &amp; Reviews:

San Valentino Palo Bea consistently receives high scores from critics around the world due to its exceptional quality. It frequently garners ratings above 90 points from renowned publications like Wine Spectator and Decanter Magazine. Reviewers often praise it for its balance between fruit intensity, tannic structure, acidity levels, making it both approachable now but capable of aging gracefully over time.

Food Pairing:

Given its robust character and complex flavor profile, San Valentino Palo Bea pairs wonderfully with hearty dishes such as grilled red meats, game, and rich pasta dishes. It also complements aged cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino Romano.

San Valentino Palo Bea is a testament to the winemaking prowess of its producer. Its full-bodied nature coupled with complex flavors and aromas make it an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality Italian wine that showcases the potential of Sangiovese grapes from Emilia-Romagna.

Paola Bea is a legendary figure in the world of Italian wine, particularly in Umbria. The family is renowned for their commitment to natural winemaking and has been instrumental in establishing the reputation of Sagrantino di Montefalco as one of Italy's most distinctive wines.

San Valentino Paolo Bea an Italian treasure

Omakase is experiencing a surge in popularity, let’s dig into what it is and of course what wines to drink.



 Omakase, a term that translates to "I'll leave it up to you" in Japanese, is rapidly gaining popularity in the culinary world. This dining experience places your meal entirely in the hands of the chef, who meticulously crafts each course based on seasonal ingredients and their personal creative flair. It's not just about seafood; while sushi often features prominently due to its status as a cornerstone of Japanese cuisine, an omakase menu can include anything from Wagyu beef to seasonal vegetables.

Omakase and Wine Pairing: A Booming Gastronomic Journey

California Chardonnay: it's a name synonymous with sunshine, buttery richness, and maybe even a splash of white wine envy (looking at you, Bridget Jones). But how did this grape, originally hailing from France, become a Californian icon? Buckle up, because we're diving into the world of CA Chard, from its unexpected origins to the reasons it continues to reign supreme on wine lists.

Buckle up, because we're diving into the world of CA Chard!

Forget everything you think you know about sweet, syrupy wines. Lambrusco is a sparkling red wine from Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region that’s as light and bubbly as a summer day.

Lambrusco: The Party in a Bottle You Need to Try under $25

As the days grow longer and warmer, it's time to trade in your full-bodied reds and crisp whites for a glass of refreshing rosé. This versatile wine is not only perfect for spring but also pairs beautifully with a wide variety of foods all year round.



Rosé originates from France, specifically Provence - the world’s leading rosé region. It has been produced there since 600 BC when Greeks brought vines to southern France. Unlike its red and white counterparts, rosés are made using an array of grape varietals including Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault among others.

Spring into Rosé: The Perfect Wine for Warmer Weather

We are interested in understanding your dining and wine consumption habits to gain valuable insights into the wine and restaurant industry.

State of Wine and Restaurant Survey 2024

Aligoté: Burgundy's Unsung Hero Steps Out of the Shadows

For Chardonnay lovers seeking a refreshing, value-driven alternative, Aligoté, Burgundy's "other" white grape, beckons with its crisp acidity, subtle minerality, and undeniable charm. Often overshadowed by its more illustrious neighbor, Aligoté is finally gaining recognition for its unique qualities and exceptional quality-to-price ratio.

Aligoté: Burgundy's Unsung Hero Steps Out of the Shadows

A Hungarian Legacy: Imagine yourself in Tokaj, Hungary, a region steeped in winemaking tradition. For centuries, Furmint has thrived in its volcanic soil, basking in the warm sunshine. These grapes, loved for their thick skin and high acidity, became the cornerstone of Hungary's most famous wine: Tokaji. These sweet, honeyed treasures were once enjoyed by royalty and popes!

Furmint: Hungary's Hidden Gem for Wine Lovers

Check out these four whites wines under $24, from some great producers across various terroirs – France, Italy, Spain. Spring is in the air.

Four must try white wines for under $24 from France, Spain, and Italy

Eric Asimov's recent article isn't just about the "luxury" of sommeliers vanishing from restaurants. It's a stark warning about the potential collapse of a vibrant corner of our social and cultural ecosystem: the world of wine.

Why the Decline of Sommeliers Is a Crisis for All of Us

The Federal

Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas explore the wine list at The Federal where white table elegance and an innovative “new American” cuisine with Italian and French influences ensure an enjoyable and memorable dining experience, but let’s not forget the wine. 

Wine List Review of The Federal, Restaurant and Wine Bar,  Massachusetts

Michaela Quinlan

The Federal:

RT: Hello and welcome to CorkRules!&nbsp;

A podcast where, in each episode,&nbsp;we will review a wine list from your favorite restaurants. I&rsquo;m your host Robert Tas along with Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier.

Hello Michaela,&nbsp;it&rsquo;s great to be back together for another episode.

MQ: Hi Robert!

RT: Before we jump in, let&rsquo;s talk about CorkRules.

We created CorkRules to demystify wine lists because we know from experience, that sometimes when we get that list handed to us, well&hellip; it can be intimidating, and even a little daunting.

Our aim is to help prepare you to navigate that list, find those hidden gems, or value wines or that special bottle that will take your dining experience over the top.

RT:&nbsp;So, sit back and listen as we review your favorite wine list.

RT: Today we are talking about The Federal. Located in Waltham, MA, The Federal has modernized the classic steakhouse. With a scratch kitchen and local ingredients, The Federal is a must visit.

Michaela, I can&rsquo;t wait to hear what do you think of their wine list?

MQ: You know I love an extensive wine list that also features half bottles, magnums, and excellent dessert wines. Not to mention the standout value wines. This menu has it all.

RT: That&rsquo;s really great, as you looked the list did you see anything jump out at you?

MQ: The Federal is also known for their seafood selections, so I had to note the 2021 Castello di Neive, Montebertotto, Arneis, from the Piedmont region of Italy. This medium bodied white wine has bright acidity, aromas of peach and nectarine, a slight effervescence, and that classic nutty/almond finish. The freshness of this wine makes it an excellent companion to shrimp, clams, and rich cheeses.

RT: That is for sure unique. Did you find any others that caught your eye right away?

MQ: Now on to a red. With the extensive steakhouse dining selections, we have to consider a bold, classic Napa Valley red blend. One that I find to be a winner is the 2017 Robert Foley, The Griffin, Red Blend. I enjoy this incredible blend of Merlot, Petit Syrah, and Petit Verdot. These grapes combine to produce rich, ripe red and dark fruit aromas and flavors of cherries, and blackberries, with notes of smoke, vanilla, and licorice.&nbsp; The firm tannins and long finish allow this wine to pair well with richly sauced proteins such as steak and lamb.

RT: So, Michaela, their list seems to have lots of range but was there anything that you would say is a &ldquo;must-try&rdquo;?

MQ: If you are considering lighter proteins or seafood, a beautiful wine to consider is the 2019 Domaine Christian Moreau 1er Cru Chablis Vaillons from Burgundy. Vaillons is one of the largest 1er cru Chablis appellations in Burgundy. The Chardonnay grown here is quite special. This dry, white wine is medium bodied with bright acidity, minerality, along with notes of citrus, green apple, and white peach. Certainly, a must try and don&rsquo;t miss.

RT: These are some great calls. So, you know I&rsquo;m getting thirsty and will need to order a bottle with my dinner, where would you guide us? &nbsp;

MQ: I have a personal favorite, and classic for you to consider if the rich menu items caught your eye. Do consider the 2018 Paul Hobbs CrossBarn from Napa Valley. This highly rated, organic, Cabernet Sauvignon showcases ripe blackberries and cassis, notes of herbs and cocoa, with smooth tannins on the long finish.

RT: Ooh, Terrific. Michaela, speaking of price, sometimes people have a budget in mind.&nbsp; Any other great value wines you&rsquo;d point us to?&nbsp;&nbsp;

MQ: Of course. I am always excited when I find a wine from Graves on any list. Today we are discussing the 2020 Chateau Graville-Lacoste Graves Blanc. Graves is located in Bordeaux, and this light to medium bodied white wine consists of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillion. The soil in Graves, you can probably guess, is quite gravelly, which is reflected in the bright minerality in the wine. The crisp acidity, citrus, grapefruit, and cantaloupe make this quality and value wine quite the standout and perfect pairing for shellfish and rich fish such as salmon and tuna. &nbsp;

RT: That sounds great. What is your other value selection?

MQ: We know I am a fan of Old-World wines, and I have to stop when I find those of great value. One of my favorite quality and value wine regions is Gigondas in the Southern Rhone. Gigondas is a neighbor to Chateauneuf du Pape where you benefit from the same climate, soil composition, and incredible Grenache and Syrah, but without the Chateauneuf du Pape price tag. The ripe blueberries and blackberries, along with notes of spice, black pepper, smoke, minerality,&nbsp; and a touch of vanilla make this wine an excellent consideration for all richly sauced dishes.

RT: Now Michaela, what if I have a big client dinner or special occasion where I want to take it up a notch?

&nbsp;MQ: The warmth of The Federal&rsquo;s dining room makes you feel as if you are dining in a historic library. If you are looking for that historic bottle to add to the experience, consider the 2012 Grand-Puy Ducasse from Pauillac on the Left Bank of Bordeaux.&nbsp; &nbsp;This property dates back to the 1700s and has some famous neighbors Lafite and Pontet-Canet. This Grand Cru vineyard produced this stellar blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot is quite aromatic and showcases ripe blackberries, cassis, smoke, and leather, with notes of earth, mint, and vanilla on the finish. A true classic to add to any special occasion.

RT: Michaela Thank you so much for all your great suggestions and helping us navigate The Federal&rsquo;s wine list. I can&rsquo;t wait to go try them myself. &nbsp;

To our audience, thank you all for joining us here on CorkRules.

If you would like us to review one of your favorite restaurants, please send us email to: <a href="mailto:Info@corkrules.Com">Info@CorkRules.Com</a> or visit our web website where we have a request form available and we will do our best to get it in the queue as quickly as possible.

We are looking forward to being with you on another CorkRules episode soon. In the meantime, please check out our website for other episodes of your favorite restaurant wine lists.&nbsp;

And finally, drink what you love and please make sure you drink responsibly.

Thank you.

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BRAT

Bocca di Lupe

Gap Weekend: A Film Shoot in Wine Country

Alba Restaurant

Alba

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L'Auberge Chez Francois

Andrew Edmunds

Salt Seafood and Oyster Bar

Matteos Ristorante Italiano

Matteo's

Cakebread Cellars is a family-owned winery located in the heart of Napa Valley. Since its founding in 1973, the winery has been dedicated to producing exceptional wines that showcase the unique terroir of the region.

Rustic-chic French cafe serving traditional fare including brunch with wine & classic cocktails.

Frenchette

Le Bernardin

Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels

La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels

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Becco

Buddha-Bar Restaurant New York

Buddha Bar

Franks Wine Bar

Frank's

Maison

Maison Premiere

Pastis

Aldo Sohm Wine Bar

Aldo Sohm

homepage

CorkRules application allows you to discover wines at your favorite restaurants, learn with friends and be confident with price transparency. Order wine with confidence at restaurants and retailers. Get personalized recommendations. #DrinkWhatYouLove

Lena

Available Wines
Total Wines - 5

Louis Jadot

Maison, Macon-Villages NV

Burgundy, France

Domaine Pre Baron Touraine Rose NV

Loire, France

La Petite Lune Blanc NV

Bordeaux, France

Cave de Chaintré

Expression Julienas NV

Gamay

France

Domaine de la Vauvise

Les Trois Terroirs Sancerre NV

Sauvignon Blanc

Sancerre, France