In this month’s eNewsletter we feature a historic Italian winery, a winery with cult-like status, and an event focusing on all things Montalcino. We hope you enjoy!
~Your Friends at The Mitchell Wine Group
Special Feature: Fattoria dei Barbi
Fattoria dei Barbi is “The” reference for Brunello in Montalcino. Barbi’s approach of using tradition to anchor contemporary expressions of wine continues to position Barbi as a leading producer in Brunello.
The Colombini family is one of the most influential of the Region and have been an integral part in writing the history of Brunello. Fattoria dei Barbi’s commitment to innovation and quality have lead to many “firsts”, namely; The 1st exporters of Brunello, 1817; the 1st Brunello awarded by the state (Italy), 1892; the pioneers of wine tourism, 1938; the 1st Tuscan cellar open to visitors, 1954; producer of the 1st Super Tuscan, Brusco dei Barbi, 1969.
Stefano Cinelli Colombini, is currently the 20th generation of Fattoria dei Barbi. The Fattoria dei Barbi occupies a stretch of land about 1,114 acres, lying amidst the cities of Montalcino, Scansano and Chianti. Presently, production equals about 800,000 bottles, of which 200,000 are of its world-renowned Brunello. The 247 acre vineyard has an average yield of over 5,000 vines, producing on average 1.5kg of grapes per vine. From each plant, therefore, only approximately one bottle of wine is created.
The philosophy of the Colombini family, and that of the Barbi Farm, has always been getting to know and study the latest and most innovative technology, combining it with its best tradition, to produce a superior product while not altering its reputation.
To learn about the Fattoria dei Barbi wines currently in the Mitchell Portfolio click here.
New to the Portfolio: Navarro
Navarro Vineyards and Winery, Anderson Valley, California
We are very excited about the addition of the fantastic, cult-like wines from Navarro to the Mitchell portfolio! Navarro Vineyards and Winery was founded in 1973 by Ted Bennett and Deborah Cahn. Their children Aaron and Sarah Cahn-Bennett have now joined the family business. Navarro grows Gewürztraminer, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Gris and Muscat Blanc. They produce 40,000 cases of wine annually, 60% of which is produced from estate-grown grapes. Mitchell has a very limited allocation of this wine.
Navarro is committed to sustainable farming practices including the use of cover crops between vine rows to reduce sedimentation and encourage beneficial insects, annual monitoring of erosion-control measures and protection of the riparian corridor. In 2006, Navarro introduced sheep and a portable chicken house into the vineyards as a fossil-fuel-free method of mowing, suckering, and limiting pests. Navarro also farms without the use of chemical pesticides and herbicides, and participates in the Fish Friendly Farming program and the California Sustainable Winegrowing Program. Navarro’s winery, vineyard and tasting room employees are hired full-time with health, dental and profit sharing benefits.
Mitchell Wines has limited availability of Gewürztraminer, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir currently in stock.
Events, Tasting and Classes:
Tastes of Montalcino Monday July 9, 3-5pm
With special guest Rafaella Guidi from Fattoria dei Barbi
Learn about the history, culture, terrior and cuisine of Montalcino while enjoying the incredible wines from the 14th century estate of Fattoria dei Barbi, “The” reference for Brunello in Montalcino. Wines include Brunello di Montalcino, Rosso di Montalcino, Morellino di Scansano, and Brusco dei Barbi.
As always, our educational seminars and tastings are Trade Only events, open to the various professionals in our industry from wine retailers and sommeliers to waiters, bartenders and cooks. Our events are a great opportunity to further your knowledge, increase sales ability and interact with other industry professionals. Be sure a seat is saved for you with an RSVP.
