&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

Rochambeau

Michaela Quinlan

Rochambaud

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 list&rsquo;s 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 Rochambeau. Located in the Back Bay of Boston, Rochambeau is a two-floor, French Brasserie and caf&eacute; featuring French classics with contemporary style.

Michaela, I can&rsquo;t wait to hear what do you think of their wine list?

MQ: I love the design of Rochambeau with their outdoor patio, spacious booths, and private dining area. Their wine list is of equal style, and of course, we have found many stand-out favorites from their French dominate list.

RT: That&rsquo;s really great, as you looked at the list did you see anything jump out at you?

MQ: We know by now that I love bubbly. Let&rsquo;s kick off our experience at Rochambeau with a glass of J Laurens Cremant de Limoux #7 Sparkling Rose. Cremant means sparkling wine produced outside of the Champagne region, and in this case, the region of Limoux, located in the Languedoc. This dry, sparkling rose is a blend of Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, and Pinot Noir and features aromas and flavors of red cherries and strawberries. A perfect aperitif or to pair with cheeses.

RT: That is for sure unique. Did you find any others that caught your eye right away?

MQ: Another standout is the 2020 Jadix Picpoul de Pinet from the Languedoc. The picpoul grape produces dry, light to medium-bodied, white wines with bright acidity and aromas and flavors of lime zest, grapefruit, and cantaloupe. This is a wonderful pairing for lighter fare, and seafood.

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: For our red wine fans, a must-try is the 2018 Chateau des Jacques, Morgon from Burgundy, specifically Beaujolais. Morgon is Beaujolais&rsquo; second largest Cru that produces excellent red wines from the gamay grape that features aromas and flavors of earth, spice, nutmeg, and ripe, red cherries. One to consider for pairing with pastas and proteins.

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?

MQ: A consideration for the table would be the 2019 Domaine Serge Laporte Sancerre Rouge. Sancerre, located in the Loire Valley, not only produces stellar sauvignon blanc, but also spectacular Pinot Noir. This Pinot noir is medium-bodied with aromas and flavors or ripe raspberries and cherries, with notes of earth on the finish. A structured pinot noir to pair with any of Rochambeau&rsquo;s lunch and dinner options.

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;

MQ: Of course! We have two selections for consideration today. The first being the 2018 Domaine Lavigne Saumur Blanc, also from the Loire Valley. This Saumur Blanc consists of 100% Chenin Blanc which exudes aromas of white flowers with flavors of white peach and dried apricot. This medium-bodied white wine pairs beautifully with dense fish such as tuna and swordfish, along with crab and lobster &ndash; all at an excellent price.

RT: Sign me up! What other great values did you find?

MQ: &nbsp;An excellent quality meets value wine from the Southwest of France is the 2016 Domaine Lavaur Cahors. Cahors, along with Bordeaux, produces some of the earliest Malbec vines. This medium to full-bodied red wine showcases ripe strawberries, blackberries, cassis, with notes of oak and black pepper on the finish. This Malbec would make an excellent companion to herbed sauces, pastas, and proteins.

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: Rochambeau is a lively environment to celebrate just about anything. Like their menu, I will stay true to France, and recommend the legendary Krug 169 Brut Champagne. This is Krug&rsquo;s 169th edition of their Grand Cuvee. Krug has been producing this stellar Cuvee since 1843. The 169 consists of a blend of 146 wines from 11 years ranging from 2000 to 2013, resulting in the blend of 43% pinot noir, 35% chardonnay, and 22% pinot munier. The floral nose with flavors of almond, citrus, and brioche would certainly pair well seafood, spicy dishes, as well as dessert. A special blend for any special event.

RT: Michaela, thank you so much for all your great suggestions and helping us navigate Rochambeau&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.

&nbsp;

End

BRAT

Bocca di Lupe

Gap Weekend: A Film Shoot in Wine Country

Alba Restaurant

Alba

10 Greek Street

L'Auberge Chez Francois

Andrew Edmunds

Salt Seafood and Oyster Bar

Matteos Ristorante Italiano

Matteo's

Rodney Strong Vineyards is a family-owned winery located in Sonoma County, California. They specialize in producing high-quality wines made from sustainably farmed grapes grown in their estate vineyards. The winery has a long history of winemaking excellence and has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades over the years.

Spanish eatery providing a mix of tapas & family-style dishes in airy, contemporary digs with a bar.

Meson

Brasserie Mon Chou Chou

BondST

Buenos Aires Restaurant

Buenos Aires

Meadowsweet

Casa Mono

Atera

La Cava

LAVO Italian Restaurant

Lavo

Quality Italian

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

Vaca

Txomin Etxaniz

Txakoli Getariako Txakolina NV

Hondarrabi Zuri

Getariako Txakolina, Spain

Moet Chandon Cuvee Dom Perignon Brut Champagne France Reims NV

Champagne, France

Bodega Numanthia

Termes NV

Tempranillo

Toro, Spain

R. Lopez de Heredia

Vina Tondonia Reserva NV

Rioja, Spain

Black Slate

Porrera (Vi di la Vila) NV

Grenache

Priorat, Spain

Vall Llach

Embruix NV

Blend

Priorat, Spain

Rose

Krug NV

Champagne, France

Familia Torres

Pazo das Bruxas NV

Albarino

Galicia, Spain

Caymus

Cabernet Sauvignon NV

Cabernet Sauvignon

California, USA

Altos Ibéricos

Crianza NV

Tempranillo

Rioja, Spain

Juvé & Camps

Cava Gran Reserva Brut Nature Reserva de la Familia NV

Parellada

Cava, Spain

Alto Moncayo

Veraton Garnacha NV

Grenache

Campo de Borja, Spain

DuMOL

Russian River Valley Pinot Noir NV

Pinot Noir

California, USA

Lail Vineyards

Blueprint Cabernet Sauvignon NV

Cabernet Sauvignon

California, USA

Bodegas AAlto Ribera del Duero AAlto, Spain, Castilla y León NV

Tempranillo

Castilla y Leon, Spain