This past Sunday unfurled into one of those rare days that etch themselves into memory with a vividness that time struggles to fade. Courtesy of my great friend Jairo, I found myself amidst an extraordinary assembly of individuals at the Franco Rocca winery in Neive, Italy. The ensemble included the winery's heart and soul, Franco and his wife Susan, alongside Darryl Baldwin and his wife Les, Evan Byrne, Jeffrey Chilcott, Mauro Repetto—an eminent Sommelier from the region, and Alan Spain. Together, we embarked on an exploration of both taste and camaraderie.
While the expectation might have been for the wines to steal the show—and indeed, their elegance was undeniable—it was Franco's impromptu singing performance that became the highlight of the day. Possessing a voice shockingly powerful for his stature, Franco's singing captivated us all, so much so that I regretted not capturing more of it on video. Our day began with Franco guiding us through his winery. It's a place where precision meets passion, and where a commitment to quality over quantity is evident in every corner. As Franco narrated the winery's evolution, his innate connection to the land and his craft became unmistakably clear. It seemed as though his winemaking decisions were as natural to him as breathing, seamlessly responding to the whims of nature year after year. The journey continued in the dining room, where Susan's culinary artistry took center stage. Course after course, her dishes were a symphony of flavors, perfectly paired with Franco's wines. Amidst occasional light-hearted reprimands for empty glasses, we savored the Dolcetto, Barbera, Langhe Nebbiolo, and the illustrious Barbarescos from Albesani (2008, 2015, 2016,2017, 2018) and Gallina (2019). Each wine was a testament to terroir expression, marked by sanguine, earthy notes, and a remarkable balance that showcased Franco's winemaking prowess. Our conversation flowed as freely as the wine, a mix of Italian and English that reflected the diverse yet deeply connected group gathered around the table. The sense of friendship, respect, and passion for wine was palpable, fueling our discussions and tastings. Notably, our blind tasting session brought its own surprises, with Mauro's selection of a Botrytized German Auslese Riesling winning accolades, while my Morgon Beaujolais and Jeffrey's French Malbec from Cahors delighted and confounded in equal measure. Reflecting on the day, what stands out is not just the exceptional quality of the wine and food but the artistry and dedication behind them. Franco and Susan's commitment to their craft, the depth of knowledge and passion for wine shared by Mauro, Jeffrey, and Jairo, and the genuine camaraderie that enveloped us all made for an unforgettable experience in Barbaresco country. As I recount this remarkable day, it's clear that Neive, Italy, holds a special place in the hearts of those who have been charmed by its beauty and bounty. For those of us fortunate enough to have experienced it up close, it's a reminder of the artistry in winemaking, the joy of shared meals, and the enduring bonds of friendship. Here's to many more such days, in the company of great friends and exceptional wine.
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