grip it and sip it
A conversation with Thomas Harrell of Banfi Vintners reveals that Turf Life is just as important to the wine industry as is it to golf. Character of a wine begins in terroir, the soil, or turf. Banfi’s dedication to a finer wine world includes the pursuit of excellence in making pure and natural wines, respecting the environment, protecting the turf! Castello Banfi is the first winery in the world to be awarded the international recognition for exceptional environmental, ethical and social responsibility (ISO 14001 and SA 8000). Please enjoy learning about these two wines from their international portfolio of over 60 labels, all which share the same priorities of practicing green winemaking.
FEATURED WINE: 2016 Castello Banfi San Angelo Pinot Grigio Toscana IGT Varietal: 100% Pinot Grigio Region: Tuscany Vineyards: Estate vineyards in the southern part of Montalcino. Yellowish brown, clay topsoil, slightly calcareous. Winemaking: Selective grape harvest. The temperature-controlled fermentation (59-64˚F) of the freerun juice is immediately followed by storage at a low temperature, which leaves a small and natural effervescence. A few months after the harvest, before the year ends, bottling takes place. TASTING NOTES Color: White-gold. Bouquet: Fresh bouquet with notes of pear, peach, anise and honey. Taste: Fruity and crisp, very refreshing. Food Pairing Excellent as an aperitif, or accompaniment to light dishes such as grilled vegetables and pasta primavera, as well as a range of seafood.
FEATURED WINE: 2012 Castello Banfi Brunello di Montacino DOCG Varietal: 100% Sangiovese Region: Tuscany
Vineyards: Estate vineyards on the southern hills of Montalcino. The grapes are grown in stony, calcareous and well-structured soil at an altitude of 720 feet above sea level. Winemaking: A meticulous grape selection is followed by vinification with skin contact for 10-12 days. Released in the 5th year after harvest, the wine is aged for a minimum of 4 years, including 2 years in oak barrels of various sizes, mainly French oak barriques and partly in Slavonian oak casks. TASTING NOTES Color: Intense ruby red with garnet reflections. Bouquet: Ethereal, violet, vanilla with hints of licorice. Taste: Full, soft, velvety, with traces of spice. Food Pairing Perfect with red meats, wild game and aged cheeses.
Grip it and Sip it. 44
Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 8