Chardonnay Napa Valley, Robert Mondavi 2017.
Classically styled Chardonnay has a rich creamy palate of baked apples, poached pears and pineapples. Balanced and elegant with threads of baking spice and citrus. The majority of the wine is aged in French oak, lending a toasty creamy note to the finish.
The Italian assimilation into the US was particularly difficult, marred by stereotypical images of unsavory people prone to criminality. Despite these depictions, Italians focused on building their American identities. Interestingly enough, it was through their food the Italians forced the rest of America to adjust. It was the Italian restaurants opened by immigrants here that changed and improved America’s understanding and appreciation of Italian culture. Once only available in their neighborhoods, Italian food has won its way into the hearts, minds and stomach of all Americans. Here’s to another delicious week of featuring some of the most famous from around the country!
Terra d'Oro Chenin Blanc Viognier 2018.
The Terra d’Oro 2018 Chenin Blanc and Viognier blend displays engaging aromas of honeydew melon, cantaloupe, grapefruit, pear and strawberry with hints of nectarines, orange blossom and tangerines. The nose gives way to a clean mid-palate with flavors of peaches and mango complemented by notes of quince and nectarine. Acid drives into a bright, crisp finish. This wine is lively, refreshing and well-balanced. For a delightful pairing, serve this wine with oysters on the half shell or with Asian cuisine.
Italian Americans: New Country, New Identity.
As the granddaughter of immigrants, I grew up in the shadow of stories not freely told – not fully understanding the suffering and sacrifices that came before. We were Americans, that was all we needed to know – that was all my grandparents wanted for us.
Struggling to assimilate in the New World while holding on to their traditions strengthened the primacy and power of the family. Putting food on the table for the family led to the creation of a new immigrant cuisine utilizing old favorite recipes with the addition of new locally available ingredients.
There is much to tell about the Italian American experience as we reflect on their contributions and accomplishments during Italian American Heritage Month. Although they endured years of discrimination, Italian immigrants proudly helped build the America we know today.
Not the least of their accomplishments was the creation of a new Italian-American cuisine that has become highly influential in the American diet. This week’s menu will feature “Italian” dishes that originated in the US, paired with a wine made in Sonoma, CA by the descendants of one of the original Italian wineries in the US.
