As you know I had an opportunity to visit Irpinia over the summer, the mountainous region of Southern Italy that boasts four DOCG wines. I met with rock-star winemakers, ate truffles, and saw amazing art and archaeological sites without busloads of tourists behind me. Now I've partnered up with the folks on the ground in Irpinia to show you exactly why it's the new Tuscany. We'll sit-down with winemakers Luigi Moio, Salvatore Molettierri and Antonio Caggiano in their private cellars and vineyards. We'll eat at Michelin starred restaurant Marenna, stay at a 4-star hotel, and yes ... eat truffles, all for exactly half of what you would pay in Tuscany.
As a preview, I have pairings for you and a chance to taste a bit of Irpinia here in New York City. This Saturday December 6th my wife and I are hosting Feast of the Seven Fishes Cooking Class and Wine Tasting in midtown Manhattan. The Feast of the Seven Fishes has it roots in Southern Italy, so in keeping with my philosophy of “what grows together goes together.” I've paired some great wines from Irpinia and the South to match these dishes.
Fiano Di Avellino: hints of pineapple, elderflower and minerals with a faint, salty, pungent sulphuric kick from the volcanic activity that finds its way into the grapes. (Irpinia is near Vesuvius.) It’s the perfect pairing for any squid dishes or mollusks.
Greco Di Tufo: Creamy, mineral driven and floral with essence of honey and lychee nuts. It's perfect with Spaghetti Amalfitana, an unusual pasta that has tomatoes, anchovies and walnuts.
Falanghina: Bright, citrus driven with a crisp acidity, it’s the ideal choice for a classic Spaghetti Vongole
Vernaccia: A Southern Italian favorite for seafood of all types due to its hint of lemons, yellow apple, and clean, dry finish, it’s a “catch all” for any seafood dish.
This 7-course feast happens from 1-4pm and again from 7-11pm and is only $100, INCLUDING wine in a private space! (Only 14 people per class.) Grab your tickets right away as the sale ends at midnight on Cyber Monday. Click here to reserve your spot.
Hope to see you at the Feast!
Christian
Click here to see the entire 7-day Discover Irpinia itinerary and a ton of photos including our hotel, vineyards, private cellars and lots of food pics including the ravioli stuffed with burrata and covered in shaved truffles.