It is very easy to become a creature of one’s habits.  It’s convenient and comfortable to eat at the same places, do the same weekend activities, and of course, drink the same wines.  A couple years ago a good friend of mine had started dating a new girlfriend and decided to spend the summer doing something new every weekend to break out from their normal routines.  They found lots of new places to picnic, hike and eat around Ohio.  They really enjoyed picnicking at some sites like The Seven Caves, Great Serpent Mound and John Bryant State Park.  My friend said they typically didn’t spend a lot of time planning the trips.  They just hopped on Google, did some searches and used sites like www.OhioTraveler.com to find new places, hit the road with a cooler and filled it up with picnic supplies on the road.  They still talk about the fun they had on those trips that summer.

Another place that I can become complacent is in the wine I drink.  I love my Bordeaux, and its always easy to break out some Cabernet, Chardonnay or Sangiovese.  The wines I want to highlight this week are definitely “habit breakers.”   Each wine this week is a different varietal and I hope you find at least one to add to your list to keep your palate excited with the taste of new and different wines.   You might even find that you love one of these.


Torricino Greco di Tufo, DOCG, Campania, 2007 ~ 19.99

Greco is a white grape grown in the southern parts of Italy, especially near the town of Tufo.  Straw colored with an elegant bouquet.  Tastes of minerals, flowers and citrus follow through to notes of almonds and herbs.  Excellent as an aperitif but also pairs well with seafood.

Konzelmann Estate Vidal Golden Vintage, Niagara-on-the-Lake, 2003 ~ 10.99

Vidal is a hybrid which has very tough and thick skins, allowing it to survive in cold climates.  This medium dry wine displays flavors of peaches and tropical fruits, balanced acidity and a smooth lingering finish.  Pairs well with egg dishes, such as quiche, pâté, various fruits or desserts.

Maggio Vini Frappato di Vittoria “Rappato” DOC, Sicily, 2006 ~ 12.99

Frappato is a red grape of unknown origins which has been grown in southeastern Sicily since the 17th century.   The wine is cherry red with delicate scents of black berry fruits.  It has a dry yet very fresh taste.  Goes with aged goat cheese, seafood and white meats.

Bel Colle Verduno Pelaverga, DOC, Piedmont, 2005 ~ 19.99

Pelaverga is a rare and old Piedmontese grape grown on the hills of Verduno from where it gets its origin.  Light ruby red in color with a pink tint.  A rich and spicy fragrance of white pepper along with a cherry scent.  Very fresh tasting.  Serve with cured meats, mushroom pasta or cheese.

Cantine Riondo Pink Prosecco Raboso, IGT, Veneto, N.V. ~ 14.99

Raboso is a red wine grape grown primarily in northeastern Italy around Veneto.  It produces deep-colored wine, with notably high levels of tannin but low alcohol content. A very pretty pale pink color, this sparkling wine is delicate, crisp and fresh on the palate.  Perfect on its own or with salads or other light dishes. 

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