Two Phenomenal Events Part Two: GIV Bolla Meets Donatello

Stefano Puppini stood as usual---slim, tall and elegant in his designer suit as he welcomed members of the Wine Writers Of Canada and other select media members to Donatello's Restaurant in the heart of downtown Toronto. It was June 1st and the new month brought a feeling of discovery. We were about to discover some magnificent wines along with a very fine meal.Stefano mentioned that Bolla has re-discovered itself. After a period of being owned by an American company, Bolla is now owned again by an Italian one: Gruppo Italiano Vini. Going back to its roots, Bolla is making some magnificent wines which reflect the Italian terroir that they come from.The wines matched very well with the meal provided by the staff of Donatello.



Conegliano Valdobbiadene DOCG Prosecco Superiore (Contact Philip Dandurand Wines)
Nose: Clean, fresh with some floral and much citrus/pear nuances.
Palate: Zesty, refreshing with the same citrus/pear flavour. A nice wine that makes a truly fine aperitif.

Pinot Grigio Delle Venezie IGT 2008 (general list #363622)
Nose: Citrus/peach very clean and fresh
Palate: Refreshing with light body and clean finish. Served with Smoked Salmon Organic Salad

Pinor Noir IGT Provincia di Pavia 2008 (general list # 135483)
Nose: Light cherry/raspberry/strawberry with some peach nuances
Palate: Light bodied, fresh and full of fruit flavours. A nice Pinot Noir that does not break the bank. Served with Ravioli stuffed crab meat, roast pepper, goat cheese with pesto tomato rose sauce.

Valpolicella Classico DOC 2008 (general list # 16840)
Nose: Red fruit on nose with some spice
Palate: Fruity with some pepper on the finish. Served with Artisinal Salami

Le Poiane Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore DOC 2007 (PDandurand Wine)
Nose: Dry fruit (dark cherry) with spice mix of cloves, cinnamon and anise)
Palate: Dark fruit (cherry, black berry) pleasant acidity and big body. Served with Lamb Chops with sweet potato mash.

Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOC 2006 (general list # 352757)
Nose: Rich in rich dry fruit. Black cherry, plum, raisin
Palate: Black fruit, toffee, some chocolate, mild tannin with great acid balance, dry fruit finish.
Served with Assorted Cheese Platter. Would love to have it with game such as Bison, Venison, Elk or similar meat. Also great with Lamb and Osso Buco

As I said many times, the perks with being a wine writer and television host is that I get invited to events such as these. Ah the price one has to pay for being in this business. The best part is that I get to let you know about the wine and food matches and the great products available for you to choose from.
A big thanks to Zenato and Bolla (Gruppo Italiano Vini) for being such gracious hosts.