Sip happens! – Issue No. 3

This month, Fabio took the lead as host and invited Daniele for what seemed like a friendly tasting…or so Daniele thought. Behind the scenes, Fabio had a mischievous plan: to sneak in a French bottle and finally prove that Daniele’s Italian loyalty has its limits. Will France steal the spotlight, or will Italy defend its honor? Grab a glass and read on—because this showdown is anything but ordinary! No boring intros, just pure wine drama. Let’s dive in!

For all our Swiss German followers (and if you wanna test the YouTube translation), don’t miss the recorded tasting session on YouTube—consider it a little bonus content we’ve prepared just for you!

Domaine Santa Duc - Les Quatre Terres 2023

Four Terroirs, One Vision — Could you guess this blend blind?

Born from the heart of the Southern Rhône, Les Quatre Terres brings together four distinct villages: Vacqueyras, Rasteau, Roaix, and Séguret. Each parcel contributes its own personality — from sandy piedmont soils to limestone terraces and ancient red sandstone — creating a wine that is both complex and beautifully harmonious.

Certified organic and biodynamic, this cuvée reflects Domaine Santa Duc’s commitment to purity and respect for nature. The vines average 40 years of age, yielding Grenache (70%), Syrah (15%), Mourvèdre (10%), and a touch of Carignan and Cinsault (5%) — a classic Rhône blend with a modern, elegant twist.

Hand-harvested and sorted twice for absolute precision, the grapes ferment gently in stainless steel for up to 30 days, with careful pump-overs and punch-downs guided by taste. After malolactic fermentation, the wine rests for 18 months in large Stockinger oak foudres and terracotta amphorae, bottled unfined and unfiltered to preserve its soul.

In the glass: Deep ruby with purple hues. The nose bursts with aromas of ripe red and black fruits, violets, and a whisper of garrigue herbs — thyme, rosemary, and lavender. Subtle spice and mineral notes add intrigue.

On the palate: Juicy and vibrant, yet structured. Silky tannins frame flavors of blackberry, cherry, and plum, layered with hints of pepper and earthy elegance. The finish is long, pure, and refreshingly balanced — Rhône character at its finest.

🍷 Serve at 16–18 °C. Perfect with lamb, game, or a hearty ratatouille.

🌱 Fun fact: The name “Quatre Terres” literally means “Four Lands,” a tribute to the unique geology of each village. It’s a wine that tells the story of the Rhône in every sip.

Grapes: Grenache 70% | Syrah 15% | Mourvèdre 10% | Carignan & Cinsault 5%
Region: Côtes-du-Rhône
Vineyard: Parcels in Vacqueyras, Rasteau, Roaix & Séguret
Vineyard Age: ~ 40 years
Soil: Piedmont sand, Limestone clay, Red limestone
Altitude: ~150–250 m a.s.l.
Vinification: Stainless steel vats, 20–30 days, gentle extraction
Aging: 18 months in large Stockinger oak foudres (36 hl) & terracotta amphorae (8 hl)
Alcohol: ~14% vol.
Winemaker: Domaine Santa Duc (Benjamin Gras)
First Vintage: 1985
Price: ~20.– CHF

Scagliola SanSi - Azörd 2022

A Bold Piedmontese Gamble

In the rolling hills of Monferrato, where tradition reigns supreme, AZÖRD dares to break the rules. Crafted by the Scagliola family in Calosso, this wine is a masterful blend of Barbera, Nebbiolo, and Cabernet Sauvignon—three grapes rarely seen together in Piedmont. The result? A wine that’s as intriguing as its name.

AZÖRD comes from the local dialect meaning “chance” or “risk”—a tribute to the bold decision to unite these distinct varieties. Barbera brings vibrant acidity and juicy fruit, Nebbiolo adds elegance and tannic grip, while Cabernet Sauvignon contributes depth, spice, and international flair. It’s a balancing act worthy of the jester on the label, who walks a tightrope to symbolize this daring blend.

The label reflects this philosophy:

  • The tightrope represents the risk behind creating such an unconventional blend.

  • The jester embodies courage and creativity—the spirit of experimentation.

  • His attire is symbolic:

    • Hat = Elegance and style → Nebbiolo

    • Jacket = Strength and robustness → Barbera

    • Shoes = Balance → Cabernet Sauvignon

Every detail tells the story of a wine that blends tradition with bold innovation.

In the Glass: Deep, opaque ruby with purple reflections.
On the nose: Black cherry, plum, and wild berries mingle with violet, tobacco, and balsamic spice.
On the palate: Full-bodied yet refined, with silky tannins and flavors of ripe black fruit, dark chocolate, and smoky oak. The finish is long, savory, and slightly mineral—a modern interpretation of Monferrato that honors its roots while embracing innovation.

🍷Serve at 18–20 °C. Grilled meats, braised beef, aged cheeses, or truffle risotto.

🌟 Cellaring: Enjoy now or age for 5–8 years for even greater harmony.

Producer: Scagliola (Cagliola & Ansi), Calosso – Asti, Piedmont, Italy
Appellation: Monferrato Rosso DOC Grapes: Barbera | Nebbiolo |Cabernet Sauvignon (approx. equal parts) Vineyard: Estate vineyards on calcareous clay-limestone slopes
Vine Age: 35–40 years
Altitude: 250–300 m a.s.l. Soil: Clay-limestone with good drainage
Harvest: Manual
Vinification: Stainless steel fermentation (20–25 days)
Aging: 12–18 months in French & American oak barrels
Alcohol: ~15% vol.
Production: ~7,000 bottles
Winemaker: Mario & Maggiorino Scagliola
First Vintage: Around 2014–2015
Price: ~CHF 30–35

Did France win this time? Not quite! Daniele took one sniff and immediately raised an eyebrow: “Something’s off—this smells French.” He wasn’t wrong, but the verdict was clear: we both preferred the Italian bottle. Still, I’m not giving up. One day, I’ll make French wine conquer the spot it deserves in our hearts. Until then, the battle continues…

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