Last night the Wine House hosted their 9th Annual Italian Fest at their Upstairs 2 restaurant. I lost count at 10. There were about 60 different wines from all over Italy. But somewhere at around 10 tastings I lost count. The restaurant itself was much smaller than I had imagined. We showed up a little late and the cheese and olives were pretty much gone by that point. Not to mention the passed hors d’oeuvres were a little scarce. We did manage to befriend one of the servers and he gave us a heads up before he entered with a plate of the delicious lamb chops. Which were quickly devoured by the hungry wine tasters as he entered the room.
We managed to make our way up to the tasting tables through the small crowds that slowly died off as the night progressed. The staff was knowledgeable as they dished out info about the grapes and regions along with the wine. There were wines at different price points from $8.99 up to $165. There was a great Colosi Rosso from the island of Sicila for just $8.99 a bottle. Their Rosso is a mix of 90% Nero D`Avola and 10% other local grapes.
The Southern Italian wine Tenuta Le Querce II Viola Aglianico, from 100% Aglianico grapes, was a great wine at $15.99. We also picked up a solid bottle of Chianti from Castello dei Rampolla for $33.99. Plus all attendees got an additional 10% off (no case discounts though).
This was my first Wine House tasting event. I might check out another one, but unless it’s a sit down dinner, make sure to make separate dinner plans. They don’t exactly stuff you with the appetizers.
Wed, Oct 22, 2008
Cocktails, Food, West LA/Beverly Hills