After practising his sommelier skills in Rome, in the family enoteca, this lover of France – and its vineyards – has joined Atheneaum, in Beaune, in 2019. For our first special Summer newsletter, he opens his suitcase to us…
Which novel will you be taking with you this summer?
In 2005, in California, a fire of criminal origin broke out: 4.5 million bottles, worth 250 million dollars, went up in smoke. This was not an isolated incident. Many other misdeeds punctuate the region’s winegrowing history. In this book, Frances Dinkelspiel recounts the obsession, greed and violence of an entire industry.
‘A well-argued book that explores, in a clear and captivating way, a little-known part of the history of Californian winegrowing.’
Will any guidebooks, recipe books or other ‘practical’ books be included?
With must-sees, favourites, good addresses to suit all budgets, family activities and suggested itineraries, this is the essential tool for all travellers wishing to discover this region rich in history, culture and breathtaking scenery.
‘This summer, I’m off to explore Calabria: this guide will be mine!’
What bottles of wine would you recommend your family and friends to drink this summer?
Made entirely from pinot noir grapes from the Côte Chalonnaise, this sparkling wine embodies the excellence of this Burgundy estate. Hand-picked, the grapes undergo a 1st fermentation in stainless steel vats for 6 months. The clear wine obtained is then bottled for a 2nd fermentation, before being filtered with virtually no sugar added. The result? A surprisingly fresh Extra-Brut, with delicious aromas of strawberry, raspberry, biscuit and apple. Perfect for any occasion.
‘An effervescent that’s both thirst-quenching and easy to digest. Ideal for summer!’
Which bottles would you like to (re)discover?
Located in the Bandol region, domaine de Baraveou is renowned for its refined wines, as exemplified by the 2021 vintage. On the palate, the rosé is remarkably fresh, with balanced flavours of strawberry, grapefruit and a hint of spice. Its long, harmonious finish makes it an ideal choice to accompany fresh salads, seafood, grilled meats or simply as an aperitif.
‘Typically the kind of rosé I want to drink by the sea.’
What accessories do you always take with you?
An essential tool for wine enthusiasts. Meticulously designed, it successfully combines elegance and functionality, allowing you to open your favourite bottles quickly and effortlessly.
‘It’s lightweight – you can carry it anywhere, even in your pocket – and very easy to use, even on the beach to open a beer.’