Today we visit the Alps to discover its fascinating tradition of viticulture and winemaking. Grape growing has always held a sacred place in these mountain cultures, and it has often been a necessary means of sustenance, since little else will grow in the poor, rocky soils that dominate. Beyond providing a livelihood to Alpine farmers, the wines in this sampler—produced along the rim of the French and Italian Alps—demonstrate that these terroirs, defined by high altitude and steep, rugged slopes, are capable of yielding wines of unique character. Conditions are extreme: winters are harsh, summers can be very dry, and the intense daytime sun is matched only by often-frigid nighttime temperatures. Given the potential for high winds and violent storms, grape growers—as well as vines themselves—must be cold-hardy and resilient.

What does an Alpine wine taste like? This sampler will offer you an idea via whites and reds from Savoie, Valle d’Aosta, and Alto Adige. Expect vibrant acidities, vivid aromas, a certain “mountain structure,” and minerals galore.

Enjoy a discount on this sampler and savor your journey through these breathtaking mountains. –Anthony Lynch

2014 Chignin Blanc • A. & M. Quenard $19.00
2013 Grüner Veltliner • Manni Nössing $30.00
2014 Valle d’Aosta Fumin • Château Feuillet $36.00
2009 Iugum • Peter Dipoli $48.00

Normally $133.00
SPECIAL SAMPLER PRICE
$106
(a 20% discount)