a catalogue - Italian Wine Merchants

ITALIAN WINE MERCHANTS
108 East 16th Street
New York, NY 10003
212.473.2323
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE
PAID
NEW YORK, NY
PERMIT #5506
A CATALOGUE
o f
GIFTS
&
SERVICES
Winter 2007–Spring 2008
www.italianwinemerchant.com

ANOTE FROM SERGIO
“As the journalists were slapping high
scores on Barolo’s modern
interpretation, I retreated to my older
collection. Every time I drank an old
Barolo, I was overwhelmed with
remorse. There was the Italian in me:
Why change such a perfect thing What
could I do to make sure these guys who
follow the old way, these hold-outs,
don’t disappear altogether”
WHY ITALIAN WINES
W
ith more than 2,000 grape varietals
and 27,000 producers, Italy delivers
some of the most exciting wines in
the world. A string of stellar vintages across
the Boot—especially in Piemonte with
1996–2001—has only heightened the levels
of quality and complexity realized by her
greatest enological gems. In today’s world,
with so many wines arriving from across the
Atlantic, Italy’s offerings project a distinctive
style and class, showing with rare aplomb.
At Italian Wine Merchants, we bring you
only the top 1% of bottlings from Italy’s
myriad cellars. Our customized, on-site
temperature-controlled cellar ensures that
each bottle is handled with the utmost
attention and care. You never have to worry
that the wine’s quality has been compromised
by changes in temperature before it reaches
the recipient.
Best wishes,
A NOTE FROM SERGIO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 2
IWM MONTHLY WINE CLUBS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-5
GIFT BOXES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
GIFT BASKETS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
SIX-BOTTLE SAMPLERS OF ITALY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
TASTING CASES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
WINE RELATED ACCESSORIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-13
REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT
BAROLO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-19
BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20-21
SUPER-TUSCANS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22-23
THE PRINCE & HIS WINES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24-25
IWM TASTINGS &EVENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26-29
CELLAR MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30-31
THE LEGENDARY COLLECTOR’S CASE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
LARGE FORMATS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
PASSION ON THE VINE—A MEMOIR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34-35
INDEX
Order by calling 212.473.2323
Weekdays 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.; Saturday 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (EST)
or shop online at www.italianwinemerchant.com
GIFT CARDS
Presented in a gift box and accompanied by a card, this gift is available in the denominations
listed. Your recipient will enjoy selecting from IWM’s extensive portfolio of wines, accessories,
and books, and you’ll delight in making an impression with a card that reads better than all the
others.
HOLIDAY CHEERS—#GCD50....................................$50.00
THE CLIENT/ASSOCIATE—#GCD100....................$100.00
THE NOVICE—#GCD150.........................................$150.00
THE ENTHUSIAST—#GCD250................................$250.00
THE CONNOISSEUR—#GCD500 .............................$500.00
THE COLLECTOR—#GCD1000 ............................$1,000.00
THE CELLAR BUILDER—#GCD2500 ..................$2,500.00
Add a copy of Vino Italiano Buying Guide for $13.95.
2 “Dio non ha creato che l’acqua...l’uomo ha fatto il vino.”
www.italianwinemerchant.com • 212.473.2323 3

MONTHLY WINE CLUB (FOUR LEVELS)
MONTHLY WINE CLUB
EXPLORATION CLUB
A Wine Club for the Novice...
Each month of IWM’s “Exploration” Wine
Club offers a new and distinct learning
experience in the unique wine regions and
indigenous varietals of Italy. This club is the
ideal adventure for the novice looking to
explore Italian wines that are “ready to drink.”
1 2
BIG WINES CLUB
A Wine Club for the Enthusiast...
IWM’s most popular club—“Big Wines”—
includes single-vineyard selections and some
of Italy’s major powerhouse wines. These
opulent wines, which are drinkable now but
may improve with age, are first-class choices
to share with friends.
Includes:
• Three Wines per Month
• Vino Italiano (531 pp.)
• Six Spiegelau Brunello Wine Glasses
• Invitation to Exclusive Annual Event(s)
• Monthly Newsletter with Wine Notes,
Regional Recipes, & Food Pairings
Membership Fees:
3 Months . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$338.95
6 Months . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $608.95
12 Months . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,148.95
Includes:
• Three Wines per Month
• Vino Italiano (531 pp.)
• Six Spiegelau Brunello Wine Glasses
• Invitation to Exclusive Annual Event(s)
• Monthly Newsletter with Wine Notes,
Regional Recipes, & Food Pairings
• Free Delivery in Manhattan
Membership Fees:
3 Months . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$518.95
6 Months . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$968.95
12 Months . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,868.95
Members of IWM’s Monthly Wine Club receive special benefits,
including exceptional values, limited-release bottles, and an extensive
education on Italian wine through informative, proprietary tasting notes.
IWM has created four options from the novice to the collector.
BALANCED CELLAR CLUB
3
A Wine Club for the Aspiring Collector...
IWM’s pioneering club provides the wines, tools, and advice necessary for starting a balanced
collection. Wines are selected from each of the other three wine club levels, and membership
includes the complete online package for building, maintaining, and enjoying your wine collection.
The package also includes access to a dedicated Wine Specialist and Cellar Master.
INCLUDES:
• Three wines per month
• Vino Italiano (531 pp.)
• Invitation to Annual Event(s)
• Monthly Newsletter with
Wine Notes, Recipes, & Food
Pairings
• Free delivery in Manhattan
MANAGEMENT FEATURES:
• Online Wine Tracking Tool
• Personal Cellar Master
• Bottle tags with drink terms
• Cellar Management e-Letter
• Monthly Collection Report
Membership Fees:
3 months . . . .$547.86
6 months . . .$1,075.77
12 months . . .$2,131.59
Which wine club is for you For more information, or to join one of the Monthly Wine Clubs,
contact our Wine Club Manager at 212.473.2323 x132, or email: wineclub@italianwinemerchant.com.
Photos: IWM’s pioneering wine club features three hand selected wines each month, a copy of Vino
Italiano, and an Online Cellar Account that allows users to research and track their collection.
SERGIO’S SIGNATURE WINE CLUB
4
A Wine Club for the Connoisseur...
The signature of the house, “Sergio’s Cellar”
selections include low-yield bottlings as well
as the icons of Italian wine—chosen to suit
the serious connoisseur. Whether you sample
them to find the favorites you want in your
cellar or lay them down right away, these
wines will benefit from proper aging.
Includes:
• Three Wines per Month
• Vino Italiano (531 pp.)
• Invitation to Exclusive Annual Event(s)
• Monthly Newsletter with Wine Notes,
Regional Recipes, & Food Pairings
• Free Delivery in Manhattan
Wine Management Features:
• Online Wine Tracking Tool
• Personal Cellar Master
• Bottle Tags with Drink Terms
• Cellar Management e-Letter
• Monthly Collection Report
Past Selections:
• Santa Restituta (Gaja) Brunello ‘Rennina’
• Sandrone Barolo Le Vigne
• Giacosa Barbaresco ‘Santo Stefano’
Membership Fees:
3 months . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$757.86
6 months . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,495.77
12 months . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$2,971.59
4 “Dio non ha creato che l’acqua...l’uomo ha fatto il vino.”
www.italianwinemerchant.com • 212.473.2323 5

GIFT BOXES
GIFT BASKETS
These single-bottle wine gifts are accompanied by an antique-style wooden chest that
beautifully displays each wine. Each bottle is hand-selected by an IWM Portfolio Manager,
unless otherwise noted in the descriptions below.
Note: To protect contents, we package wines & gift boxes/baskets separately.
Gift packages for delivery in Manhattan are fully assembled.
BARBERA GIFT BOX
Accorded the title “King of Food” in honor of
its trademark high acidity, Barbera complements
a wide variety of cuisines.
Single-bottle Gift Box
#GBX-BARBERA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$30.00
CHIANTI GIFT BOX
This is a quintessential classic in the vast realm
of Italian reds and may very well enjoy infinite
status as Italy’s most popular wine.
Single-bottle Gift Box
#GBX-CHIANTI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$40.00
BRUNELLO GIFT BOX
Despite a relatively short history of 150 years,
Brunello di Montalcino has become the most
fabled of Italian wines.
Single-bottle Gift Box
#GBX-BRUNELLO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$75.00
ICONIC BARBARESCO
Ranking among the most respected producers
of Piemonte’s traditional guard, Bruno Giacosa
is also the foremost practitioner of Barbaresco.
Single-bottle Gift Box
#GBX-BARBARESCO . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$100.00
MARIO BATALI BASKET
#GB-BATALI . . . . . . .$65.00
Wine gift includes a favorite label from
Batali’s Maremma estate and a cookbook.
• La Mozza 2005 Morellino I Perazzi (1)
• Mario Batali’s Molto Italiano cookbook
(Hardcover)
SPARKLING GIFT BASKET
#GB-SPARKLING . . .$100.00
Wine gift includes two bottles of Italy’s
favorite sparkler and glassware.
• Prosecco Selections (2)
• Spiegelau Prosecco Glasses (6)
• Small Woven-Wood Gift Basket
ROARING ROSSO GIFT BOX
While Montalcino yields the most desirable
Rossos, resounding reds appear throughout
Italy, expressed in a full spectrum of shades.
Single-bottle Gift Box
#GBX-ROSSO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$50.00
BAROLO GIFT BOX
Reigning as the eternal King in the land of
Piemonte, Barolo has long ranked high among
the world’s elite wines.
Single-bottle Gift Box
#GBX-BAROLO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$75.00
VINTAGE BAROLO BOX
The Borgogno estate is renowned for its inveterate
dedication to the crafting of traditional
Barolo, an orientation aptly honoring its status.
Single-bottle Gift Box
#GBX-VIN-BAROLO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$150.00
SUPER-TUSCAN SASSICAIA GIFT BOX
Tenuta San Guido’s Sassicaia continues to be
one of the most sought-after and revered
Italian wines. The 2004 vintage is classic.
Single-bottle Gift Box
#GBX-SUPERTUSCAN . . . . . . . . . . . . .$175.00
ROARING ROSSOS
#GB-ROSSO . . . . . . .$125.00
Bottlings will include robust red wines
selected from regions throughout the Boot.
• Big Rosso Reds (3)
• Large Woven-Wood Gift Basket
BRUNELLO & BAROLO
#GB-BBPAIR . . . . . . .$150.00
Italy’s most renowned wines—Brunello
and Barolo—are paired up here.
• Brunello di Montalcino (1)
• Barolo (1)
• Small Woven-Wood Gift Basket
CULT WINE GIFT BOX
A true conversation piece, this wine
represents the second collaboration of
Antonio Terni and Bob Dylan. Terni
describes the wine as “a mysteriously
Dylanesque encounter between the
severity of Montepulciano and the
softness of Merlot.”
Le Terrazze 2003 Planet Waves
Single-bottle Gift Box
#GBX-CULT . . .$60.00
TUSCAN WINE TRIO
#GB-TUSCAN . . . . . .$200.00
Wine gift includes three highlights from
Toscana’s vast portfolio of wines.
• Brunello di Montalcino(1)
• Chianti Classico (1)
• Super-Tuscan (1)
• Large Woven-Wood Gift Basket
KILLER “BS” BASKET
#GB-BTRIO . . . . . . . .$250.00
Wine gift includes a wine trio representing
Italy’s most famous “B-list” wines.
• Brunello di Montalcino (1)
• Barolo (1)
• Barbaresco (1)
• Large Woven-Wood Gift Basket
6 “Dio non ha creato che l’acqua...l’uomo ha fatto il vino.”
www.italianwinemerchant.com • 212.473.2323 7

SIX-BOTTLE SAMPLERS
Each offering includes six wines and Vino Italiano Buying Guide (softcover).
ITALY’S INDIGENOUS WHITES—#SP-WHITES . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$150.00
Italy’s red natives no longer dominate the country’s signature offerings on
the international front. Wine lists today include Friuli’s Tocai, Alto Adige’s
Traminer, and the ancients of the South, such as Fiano and Falanghina.
These whites deliver a powerful presence, going far beyond the crisp quaffer
to deliver stirringly aromatic expressions and concentrated pleasures.
ITALY’S INDIGENOUS REDS—#SP-REDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$175.00
With more than 2,000 grape varieties from 20 regions, there is a lot to
discover in Italy. Have them seeing several shades of red in this
tribute to Italy’s many Rosso–colored wonders—from the pairing prowess of
Piemonte’s Barbera to Campania’s powerfully provocative Aglianico, to the
dense Montepulciano of Le Marche.
WINES OF PIEMONTE—#SP-PIEMONTE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$250.00
As the first region to recognize the importance of producing wines from
individual vineyards of exceptional quality, Piemonte set the benchmark for
quality in Italian wine. This sampler includes Piemonte’s reigning wine,
Barolo, and other regional specialties, such as Barbera, Dolcetto, a “Super-
Piemonte” blend, and a standout Nebbiolo–based Rosato.
LANDMARK COLLECTION
Each offering includes six wines and Vino Italiano: The Regional Wines of Italy (softcover).
BAROLO LANDMARK VINTAGE STREAK—#SP-BAROLO . . . . . . . . . .$400.00
A special period in Piemonte’s wine history—spanning 1995 to 2001—
delivered wines that collectively evoke the breadth of the region’s terroir and
communes, as well as the stylistic range authored by some of its foremost
producers. This celebratory sampling from the vintage streak will thrill
Barolo’s passionate followers and inspire new devotees.
BRUNELLO LANDMARK COLLECTION—#SP-BRUNELLO . . . . . . . .$500.00
Sangiovese comes in many forms and many ways, but Sangiovese Grosso or
Brunello—a.k.a, “the little dark one”—delivers the pinnacle expression of
Italy’s most renowned grape. Fans of Brunello nurture an unabated passion
for Montalcino’s way with Sangiovese, and this dedicated collection will
indulge their desires, showcasing the zone’s acclaimed diversity.
SUPER-TUSCAN LANDMARK COLLECTION—#SP-SUPERTUSCAN . .$600.00
Super-Tuscan: It’s a name that’s stuck since some producers broke the rules
and got involved with grapes outside the native circle and techniques that
didn’t quite keep tradition going. Their creative defiance inaugurated a category
that represents some of the wine realm’s most sought-after estates,
such as Tenuta San Guido and Tenuta dell’Ornellaia.
TASTING CASES
Each case includes 12 hand-selected wines, providing exposure to the wines of Italy through a
tailored tasting experience, or the means to expand an existing wine cellar.
INTRODUCTORY TASTING CASE
INTRODUCTION TO THE WINES OF ITALY
Consider this a comprehensive briefing on Italy’s wine
scene—a serious immersion that covers the Boot’s vast
varietal range in a custom IWM ensemble. It’s a total
team effort here—a veritable winestorm that engages the
indigenous celebrities, esoteric natives, and international
favorites. It’s style-minded, too: Old and New worlds,
classic and modern, restrained and powerful—they’re all
at play here for the pleasure of your palate….
Gift includes: Vino Italiano Buying Guide
#TC-INTRO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$250.00
REGIONAL WINE EXPLORATION CASE
TUSCAN WINE COLLECTIVE
Everything one could possibly seek from wine is
arguably provided for here: the classic and beloved
Chianti, multiple vintages of the refined and powerful
Brunello, the majestic and structured Vino Nobile, and
bottlings from the elite and storied contingent of Super-
Tuscans. This red enclave also includes whites that
provide intriguing native contributions.
Gift includes: Vino Italiano: Regional Wines of Italy
#TC-TUSCAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$650.00
PIEMONTE WINE PRIMER
It’s simply not all about Barolo here. Though it may reign
as the eternal King in the land of Piemonte, there are
several grape subjects that inhabit this Barolo bastion.
Take Barbera, for instance, the “King of Food” varietal.
Then there’s the popular “little sweet one,” Dolcetto—
perfect for casual drinking—and Arneis, an aromatically
enchanting white grape. Taken together, they form a distinguished
royal family that serves many vino interests.
Gift includes: Vino Italiano: Regional Wines of Italy
#TC-PIEMONTE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$550.00
REGIONAL WINE EXPLORATION CASE
8 “Dio non ha creato che l’acqua...l’uomo ha fatto il vino.”
www.italianwinemerchant.com • 212.473.2323 9

OTHER GIFT IDEAS
ANTIQUE CORKSCREWS
Explore the artistry of iron, steel, wood, pewter, and horsehair with IWM’s collectible antique
corkscrews. Since its market debut, IWM has offered a rotating collection of rare corkscrews
for the collector and wine enthusiast. Many of the items are nearly impossible to find, as they
date back a century or more. Each corkscrew is photographed and placed on our website,
accompanied by a short caption indicating the significance of the model.
BOOKS
THE BABBO COOKBOOK
by Mario Batali
This Batali classic features 150 recipes that have redefined
contemporary Italian cooking. Mario’s signature dishes showcase
his unparalleled ability to reinterpret the Italian culinary
tradition in a completely original way. Batali’s Babbo Cookbook
is replete with vibrant, complex flavors articulated through
ingenious preparations.
#BOOK120 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$40.00
VINO ITALIANO BUYING GUIDE
by Joseph Bastianich & David Lynch
Vino Italiano balances comprehensive
coverage with the practicality of a
buying guide. It’s the perfect read to
complement your next wine purchase
from IWM.
#BOOK134 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$13.95
Antique Corkscrews price range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$30.00–$900.00
Please see our website for an updated list of collectible corkscrews with photos.
www.italianwinemerchantstore.com/wineshop/corkscrews
VINO ITALIANO:
THE REGIONAL WINES OF ITALY
by Joseph Bastianich & David Lynch
This book surveys Italy’s wine-producing
regions; identifies key wine
styles, producers, and vintages; and
offers delicious regional recipes. It
provides essential information for
restaurateurs, wine merchants, and
wine enthusiasts.
#BOOK137 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$19.95
A WINE ATLAS OF THE LANGHE
by Slow Food Editore
Commune by commune and hillslope
by hillslope, this book explores the
unique features that have enabled
Barolo and Barbaresco to rank
among the world’s most exclusive and
highly prized wines.
#BOOK125 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$45.00
MOLTO ITALIANO
by Mario Batali
Molto Italiano will satisfy the
seasoned chef with helpful hints
and shortcuts, but the novice will
have no trouble following Mario’s
easy, familiar style and clear
directions.
#BOOK136 . . . . . . . . .$34.95
For additional reading, please
stop by IWM’s New York City
Showroom, contact a Portfolio
Manager at 212.473.2323, or visit
our Book Section online at
www.italianwinemerchant.com.
IWM GIFT CARD
Available
in any denomination
10 “Dio non ha creato che l’acqua...l’uomo ha fatto il vino.”
www.italianwinemerchant.com • 212.473.2323 11

GRAPPA
ACCESSORIES
G
rappa once shared the lowly stature of many spirits; in fact, it was
the libation of choice centuries ago for peasant farmers, who
availed themselves of the vinaccia (the solid matter of the grapes)
from affluent landowners’ viticultural pursuits. Though formally
recognized as a national spirit in the 1900s, its modern phase commenced
only in 1989, when grappa became the exclusive province of Italy under
European Union legislation. Such authority was justified through producers’
subsequent assiduous pursuit of technical refinements, the most significant
of which was soft pressing. The intention in “going soft” was to prevent the
extraction of harsh tannins, the product of unmitigated pressings intended
to maximize volume. Quantity is still somewhat a consideration, but is largely
addressed in the continuous distillation process, used for the industrial
production of grappa. The other distillation process—discontinuous—
requires the vigilant and astute attention of a Master Grappa Maker, as
adjustments must be made throughout that accommodate the particular
pomace’s characteristics.
GLASSWARE
The right glassware can mean everything in your tasting experience, as it elicits the full
aromatic expression of a wine, thereby capturing the wine as it’s meant to be. Spiegelau’s
crystal Vino Grande line offers several glassware sets that enable the wine drinker to practice
varietal correctness. Glasses are sold in sets of six.
Grappa is produced in various regions in Italy, but production is
primarily situated in the northeast. Like wine, it may be accorded
an appellation if derived from that region’s grape varieties and
vinified and distilled in the area in question. The appellations
currently recognized are Grappa di Barolo, Grappa Piemontese,
Grappa Lombarda, Grappa Trentina, Grappa dell’Alto Adige, and
Grappa Friulana. The label may also reference the grape utilized,
provided that it represents 85% of the sourced material. Known as
grappa di vitigno, these monovarietal expressions of the spirit offer a distinctive interpretation of
their respective grapes. Grappas may also bear the name of various quality wines whose
varietal composition they reflect (Barolo, Chianti, Brunello, Soave, etc.). In addition to the
distinguishing aspects of variety and region, grappas are further differentiated with respect to
production methodology.
SPIEGELAU VINO GRANDE
CHAMPAGNE FLUTES
#GLASS07 $50.50
SPIEGELAU VINO GRANDE
WHITE GLASSES
#GLASS03 $43.50
SPIEGELAU VINO GRANDE
BURGUNDY GLASSES
#GLASS00 $55.55
Grappa provides the quintessential closure to an Italian meal, facilitating digestion while
stimulating the mind in its delivery of profuse and sensual flavors.
GRAPPA
Bastianich Calabrone Grappa (375 ml)—DEG32 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$36.30
Bastianich Calabrone Grappa (750 ml)—DEG31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$69.30
Marolo NV Grappa & Camomile (750 ml)—DEG63 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$94.25
Nardini NV Bianco Grappa (375 ml)—DEG55 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$30.00
Nardini NV Riserva Grappa (375 ml)—DEG56 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$35.00
Poli NV Vespaiolo (375 ml)—DEG52 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$90.20
Talenti NV Brunello Grappa (750 ml)—DEG18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$60.51
GRAPPA BASED LIQUORI
Poli Grappa Miele (750 ml)—DEG62 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$49.50
SPIEGELAU VINO GRANDE
BORDEAUX GLASSES
#GLASS35 $49.00
SPIEGELAU VINO GRANDE
BRANDY GLASSES
#GLASS18 $43.50
SPIEGELAU VINO GRANDE
MAGNUM DECANTER
#GLASS2000 $40.00
SPIEGELAU VINO GRANDE
GRAPPA GLASSES
#GLASS26 $43.50
For inquiries on glassware or to place
an order, contact a Portfolio Manager
at 212.473.2323, or visit us online at
www.italianwinemerchant.com.
IWM GIFT CARD
Available
in any denomination
12 “Dio non ha creato che l’acqua...l’uomo ha fatto il vino.”
www.italianwinemerchant.com • 212.473.2323
13

BAROLO: THE EPITOME OF TERRITORIO
Looking over the Barolo vineyards that produce Luciano Sandrone’s prized cult, Cannubi Boschis.
T
he town of Barolo is situated in the
Langhe Hills, just southwest of Alba.
The vines cover a relatively small surface
area of 4,285 acres. There are eleven villages,
townships, or “communes” that constitute
the Barolo DOCG. However, five key
zones contribute 87% of the wine—La
Morra, Barolo, Castiglione Falletto,
Serralunga d’Alba, and Monforte d’Alba. The
Central Valley, to the east, is composed of
Tortonian soil (creates fragrant, approachable
wines with softness and elegance), and the
Serralunga Valley, to the west, consists of
Helvetian soil (generally creates long-lived,
powerfully concentrated wines). The physical
elements of each commune further distinguish
these communes from the other six—
Grinzane Cavour, Verduno, Novello, Diano
d’Alba, Roddi, and Cherasco. Microclimates
differentiate the zones as well, providing a
minute degree of specificity.
Much is said about the stylistic divide that
characterizes contemporary Barolo production.
In traditional practice, Barolos are fermented
in large wooden botti and the maceration
process may extend over a two-month
period. Producers of the classic orientation
believe that a protracted length of time is necessary
to extract tannin sufficient enough to
ensure the wines’ longevity. As early Barolo
production held that the “perfect Barolo”
derived from multiple sources, the varied
influences of which modified and enhanced
one another, traditional practitioners still pursue
a regimen of multivineyard blending. The
1961 vintage inaugurated a shift in value, as
vintners sought to privilege the distinctive elements
characterizing specific sites. This transition
was formalized by Renato Ratti, who
undertook extensive studies of individual sites
and formally mapped out Barolo’s viticultural
landscape. In developing this unprecedented
guide, Ratti drew upon both oral tradition and
empirical observation, identifying two types of
subzones, those of historical significance and
those endowed with “special qualities.”
Contemporary production privileges the distinct
nuances realized through cru bottlings.
Until the early 1970s Barolo was, for the most
part, a non-cru wine. Barolo was generally a
blend of grapes from La Morra, Barolo,
Castiglione Falletto, Serralunga, and
Monforte. In addition to Ratti, Gaja and
Ceretto were prominent champions of singlevineyard
bottlings, making them as characteristic
of Barolo as they are of Burgundy. Due
to the varied soil types and exposures across
vineyards, complex nuances abound, affording
endless material for study.
The map illustrated on the following page lists
some of the highly regarded vineyards in the
Barolo zone by soil type and is further broken
down by the “general” characteristics of each
commune. This word needs to be used cautiously,
as it is important to note that all variables are
not constant and generalizations can oversimplify
a complex subject. Individual site altitude and
exposure, viticulture and vinification technique,
clonal variation, producer style, and vintage conditions
can change these characterisitics.
The legendary traditionalist, Bartolo Mascarello—
sketches out his artistic labels.
14 “Dio non ha creato che l’acqua...l’uomo ha fatto il vino.”
www.italianwinemerchant.com • 212.473.2323 15

BAROLO
BAROLO
At a mere 11 million bottles a year, the production of
Barolo (8M) and Barbaresco (3M) is equivalent to the
output of a midsize California winery.
BAROLO
Burlotto 1996 Barolo Neirane—RD4073 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$44.95
Abbona 2001 Barolo ‘Vigna Terlo Ravera’—RD3678 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$49.95
Virna 2001 Barolo Sarmassa—RD4535 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$50.40
Eraldo Viberti 2001 Barolo—RD4033 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$52.25
Bongiovanni 2000 Barolo Pernanno—RD2845 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$52.95
Domenico Clerico 2002 Barolo—RD4601 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$56.95
Bovio 2001 Barolo ‘Vigna Gattera’—RD4470 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$57.75
Rocche dei Manzoni 2000 Barolo ‘Vigna d’la Roul’—RD4370 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$57.95
Alfredo Roagna 1995 Barolo Riserva—RD4077 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$59.95
Rocche dei Manzoni 1995 Barolo ‘Santo Stefano’—RD57 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$63.25
A & GN Fantino 1995 Barolo ‘Vigna dei Dardi’—RD3820 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$66.00
Brovia 2001 Barolo Villero—RD4213 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$68.07
Rocche dei Manzoni 1997 Barolo Big ‘d Big—RD1608 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$68.71
Aldo Conterno 2001 Barolo ‘Bussia Soprana’—RD3223 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$74.00
Bruno Giacosa 2001 Barolo—RD3170 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$79.50
Mauro Sebaste 1990 Barolo ‘Vigna Le Coste’—RD3718 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$79.50
Massolino 2000 Barolo ‘Margheria’—RD3162 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$82.83
Famiglia Anselma 1998 Barolo—RD1850 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$82.87
Domenico Clerico 2003 Barolo ‘Vigna Pajana’—RD4604 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$85.95
Famiglia Anselma 1996 Barolo Adasi—RD1853 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$89.10
Bartolo Mascarello 1997 Barolo—RD1093 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$99.00
Giacomo Conterno 2003 Cascina Francia—RD4545 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$99.95
Paolo Scavino 2001 Barolo Bric dël Fiasc—RD3590 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$119.95
Bruno Giacosa 2001 Barolo ‘Falletto’—RD3171 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$119.99
Borgogno 1988 Barolo Riserva—RD4165 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$139.96
Conterno-Fantino 1988 Barolo Sori Ginestra—RD3963 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$149.50
Luciano Sandrone 2003 Barolo ‘Cannubi Boschis’—RD4782 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$155.95
Borgogno 1961 Barolo Riserva—RD4161 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$160.96
Borgogno 1985 Barolo Riserva—RD4164 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$169.96
Pianpolvere 1999 Barolo Soprano Riserva—RD4145 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$170.50
Rocche dei Manzoni 1979 Barolo Riserva—RD3120 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$175.00
Domenico Clerico 1998 Barolo ‘Vigna Ginestra’—RD1740 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$198.00
Paolo Scavino 1996 Barolo Rocche Annunzia—RD1392 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$199.00
Bruno Giacosa 2001 Barolo ‘Falletto’ Riserva—RD3933 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$269.50
Aldo Conterno 2000 Barolo Granbussia—RD4321 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$279.00
Giacomo Conterno 2000 Barolo Monfortino—RD4547 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$371.25
Wines and prices are subject to change, based on availability.
16 “Dio non ha creato che l’acqua...l’uomo ha fatto il vino.”
GRAND CRUS OF BAROLO & LANDMARK VINTAGES
Experience the range of Barolo through her vineyards and vintages
There is much to discover within each of the
five primary communes of Barolo as well as
the zone of Barolo itself and each vineyard
situated in the Langhe hills. Single-vineyard
bottlings (or cru), introduced by the esteemed
Renato Ratti, Beppe Colla, and the Ceretto
brothers over 30 years ago, have had a profound
impact on the Barolo landscape.
However, the archetype of Barolo is not a single-vineyard
wine. Rather, this honor belongs
to a cuvée from Bartolo Mascarello—the icon
of tradition and master of classic Barolo.
Similar examples of traditional cuvées are
produced by Bruno Giacosa and Borgogno.
BAROLO CASE (LIMITED AVAILABILITY)
Barolo’s story has been further enhanced with
rare panache, due to consecutive vintages that
yielded fruit of exceptional quality. This
special period in Piemonte’s wine history—
spanning 1996 through 2001—ordained
weather that sanctioned the delivery of wines
collectively evoking the breadth of Piemonte’s
terroir and communes, as well as the stylistic
range authored by its producers.
The selected bottlings serve as some of the
most eligible ambassadors of their respective
years, the case includes the single vintage
gems of 1985 and 1990.
1. Brovia 2001 Barolo ‘Villero’ 7. Fantino 1998 Barolo ‘Vigna dei Dardi’
2. Conterno 2001 ‘Bussia Soprana’ 8. Bartolo Mascarello 1997 Barolo
3. Bruno Giacosa 2001 Barolo 9. Rocche dei Manzoni 1996 Big ‘d Big
4. Rocche dei Manzoni 2000 ‘St. Stefano’ 10. Famiglia Anselma 1995 Barolo Adasi
5. Bovio 1999 Barolo Vigna Arborina’ 11. Sebaste 1990 Barolo ‘Vigna Le Coste’
6. Pianpolvere 1999 Soprano Bussia Riserva 12. Borgogno 1985 Barolo Riserva
Assorted Barolo Case Price (one of each)—#TC-BAROLO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1068.88
* Wines and prices are subject to change, based on availability.
www.italianwinemerchant.com • 212.473.2323 17

18 “Dio non ha creato che l’acqua...l’uomo ha fatto il vino.”
www.italianwinemerchant.com • 212.473.2323 19
MAP: C HARACTERISTICS OF BAROLO’ S C OMMUNES & VINEYARDS
CENTRAL VALLEY:
TORTONIAN SOIL
LA MORRA
Arborina
Brunate*
Cerequio*
Gattera
Giachini
Fossati*
Rocche
Marcenasco
La Serra
Luciani
Torriglione
BAROLO
Bricco Viole
Brunate*
Cannubi
Cannubi Boschis
Cerequio*
Fossati*
Sarmassa*
Via Nuova
Rue
San Lorenzo
Liste
San Pietro
*Share vineyards across zones
MAP GENERALIZATIONS
The map illustrated here lists some of the highly regarded vineyards in the Barolo zone by
soil type and is further broken down by the “general” characteristics of each commune.
This word needs to be used cautiously, as it is important to note that all variables are not
constant and generalizations can oversimplify a complex subject. Individual site altitude
and exposure, viticulture and vinification technique, producer style (especially in the case
of Angelo Gaja), and vintage conditions can change these characteristics.
WINE CHARACTERISTICS FROM LA MORRA
• Perfumed and graceful (most aromatic, feminine)
• Supple, yet seductive
• Easiest of all to drink young
WINE CHARACTERISTICS FROM BAROLO
• Broad, open, and youthful
• Plush, velvety, supple, easy-going
• Feminine, yet considerable structure and concentration
TORTONIAN SOIL (CENTRAL VALLEY):
• Blue tinted (darker in color)
• Compact calcerous marl soil mixed with sand
• Fresher, more fertile
• Rich in magnesium, manganese
• Result: Generally produces wines that are more perfumed, elegant,
softer, rounder, and approachable. Color leans towards a ruby hue.
Wines mature more quickly.
SERRALUNGA VALLEY:
HELVETIAN SOIL
CASTIGLIONE FALLETTO
Bricco Rocche
Villero
Monprivato
Serra
Fiasco
Parussi
Mariondino
Pira
Rivera
SERRALUNGA D’ALBA
Falletto
Francia
Serra
Margheria
Ornato
Marenca
Marenca-Rivette
Parafada
Vigna Rionda
MONFORTE D’ALBA
Bussia
Cicala
Colonnello
Dardi
Ginestra
Mosconi
Munie
Romirasco
Manzoni
Santo Stefano
WINE CHARACTERISTICS FROM CASTIGLIONE FALLETTO
• Rich bouquet
• Velvety texture, ranging from medium-bodied to powerful
• Middle ground between intense aromatics and austere tannins
• Generous boldness and richness; full-bodied and concentrated
WINE CHARACTERISTICS FROM SERRALUNGA D’ALBA
• More limestone in soil
• Tannic, powerful, long-aging
• Rich with depth, concentration; the most full-bodied Barolos
WINE CHARACTERISTICS FROM MONFORTE D’ALBA
• Potent structure; uncommon depth of flavor
• Big, bold, dark, and rich
• Most concentrated, firmest Barolos; greatest aging potential
HELVETIAN SOIL (SERRALUNGA VALLEY):
• Chalky beige (lighter in color)
• Looser calcerous marl soil, less fertile
• More reddish weathered sandstone and limestone
• High levels of iron, phosphorous
• Result: Produces wines that generally have more color (brick), body,
aging potential, and are more bold and intense, possessing harsher
tannins. These are structured wines that mature more slowly.

BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO: THEN & NOW
runello—“the little dark one,” the unofficial local name for the Sangiovese Grosso
clone—ripens better in this part of Toscana than anywhere else, producing wines with
B
greater richness and body than others based on the varietal. Despite a relatively short
history of 150 years (brief by Italian wine standards), Brunello has become one of Italy’s most
fabled wines. While its creation is linked to one family, there are various regional and producer
styles on the market today.
With ancient winemaking origins that date
back to the 10th century, Montalcino
originally built its reputation on a sweet wine,
Moscadello di Montalcino. However, the
future greatness of the zone was secured in
1865, when Clemente Biondi-Santi bottled a
red wine labeled Brunello. His grandson,
Ferruccio, subsequently earned the title of
“Father of Brunello” for isolating and
propogating the strain of Sangiovese Grosso
best suited to making high-quality, ageworthy
wines. Ferruccio’s legacy includes the historic
1888 Brunello, which became synonymous
with longevity and the name Biondi-Santi.
In the Il Greppo vault, Franco Biondi-Santi showing
Sergio Esposito (IWM) the crystallization that formed
on the priceless 1888 Brunello (only 3 bottles remain).
However, it is not the clone in and of itself
that should be credited with the achievement
that is Brunello di Montalcino. Rather, it is
made possible by essential and substantive
contributions from a variety of regional
elements—soil composition, climatic conditions,
altitudes, and DOCG aging require-
20 “Dio non ha creato che l’acqua...l’uomo ha fatto il vino.”
ments. In Montalcino the soils generally contain
more sand and limestone than do those of
the Chianti region. Montalcino proffers a
heat-infused Mediterranean environment tempered
by high altitudes, air currents from the
Montalcino hills, and the shelter of Toscana’s
highest peak, Mount Amiata. These influences
enhance the muscularity of the Sangiovese
grape, precipitating the development of a
richer, darker, and more concentrated wine
than that of the Chianti zone.
While Brunello may, therefore, begin with
Biondi-Santi, it certainly does not end there.
In 1961, Franco Biondi-Santi remained the
sole producer of this wine, crafting a mere
30,000 bottles at Il Greppo, the family estate.
Today, there are more than 240 winemakers
producing more than seven million bottles of
Brunello each year. Given this rapid growth
and tremendous variation, it has become
increasingly difficult for consumers to identify
the wines that truly deserve to carry the
name Brunello di Montalcino. Many wines on
the market do not merit the designation, but
those offered by Il Poggione, Il Palazzone,
Baricci, Biondi-Santi, and Cerbaiona, among
others, demonstrate the essential quality and
requisite sense of terroir at different levels
and price points, setting their wines apart
through respect for both the land and the
varietal. Selections from these producers also
demonstrate the impact of terroir on the
character of a wine, realizing the subtle variations
that exist in a latent state in this small
geographic area.
* Wines and prices are subject to change, based on availability.
BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO
BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO
Caprili 2001 Brunello Riserva—RD4450 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$57.79
Talenti 1998 Brunello di Montalcino—RD2386 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$64.63
Canalicchio di Sopra 2001 Brunello Riserva—RD4445 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$74.90
Tenuta La Fuga 2001 Brunello Riserva Le Due Sorelle—RD4639 . . . . . . . . . . .$79.95
Talenti 1999 Brunello Riserva ‘Vigna Paretaio’—RD4024 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$82.50
Casisano-Colombaio 2001 Brunello di Montalcino—RD4586 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$87.95
Il Palazzone 2001 Brunello di Montalcino—RD4347 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$94.05
Poggio di Sotto 1999 Brunello di Montalcino—RD2698 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$99.69
Altesino 2001 Brunello Riserva—RD4443 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$99.90
Capanna 2001 Brunello di Montalcino (1.5L)—RD4044 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$99.95
Castiglion del Bosco 2001 Brunello di Montalcino (1.5L)—RD4047 . . . . . . . . .$99.99
Gianni Brunelli 2001 Brunello Riserva—RD4479 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$106.00
Camigliano 2001 Brunello di Montalcino (1.5L)—RD4040 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$119.98
Talenti 1999 Brunello Riserva ‘Vigna Paretaio’ (1.5L)—RD4025 . . . . . . . . . . .$159.50
Mastrojanni 1990 Brunello di Montalcino—RD3703 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$173.00
Fanti 2000 Brunello di Montalcino (1.5L)—RD3441 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$199.90
Case Basse di Soldera 1987 Brunello di Montalcino—RD4254 . . . . . . . . . . . .$239.00
Cerbaiona 1990 Brunello di Montalcino—RD3764 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$239.00
San Felice 1990 Brunello Campogiovanni (1.5L)—RD3770 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$425.00
Biondi-Santi 1982 Brunello Riserva—RD4582 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$579.00
Castelgiocondo 1997 Brunello Riserva (3.0L)—RD2499 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$649.00
BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO VERTICAL
Six Bottle Sampler Showcasing Riserva & Notable
TALENTI BRUNELLO VERTICAL INCLUDES:
• 1998 Brunello di Montalcino
• 1998 Brunello Riserva ‘Vigna del Paretaio’
• 1999 Brunello di Montalcino
This six-bottle wine sampler showcases the work of the Talenti
estate across a brilliant vintage spectrum of Montalcino, enabling
you to experience some of the region’s most striking performances,
as interpreted through one of its most eminent producers. As one
of Brunello’s pioneers, Pierluigi Talenti occupies the same echelon
as Biondi-Santi. However, in Talenti’s philosophy, Brunello was liberated
from the extensive aging requirements demanded by the traditionalists
and allowed to deliver greater approachability in its
youth, without compromising its dense and concentrated character.
• 1999 Brunello Riserva ‘Vigna del Paretaio’
• 2001 Brunello di Montalcino
• 2001 Brunello Riserva ‘Vigna del Paretaio’
SIX-BOTTLE TALENTI BRUNELLO VERTICAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$442.76
www.italianwinemerchant.com • 212.473.2323 21

SUPER-TUSCANS
TUA RITA 2004 PERLATO DEL BOSCO—RD4416 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$35.99
Sangiovese & Cabernet Sauvignon. Famed Tua Rita winemaker Stefano Chioccioli is known for his rich, accessible style,
and the ‘04 Perlato wears it well, carrying the dense fruit.
LA MOZZA 2004 ARAGONE—RD4320 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $39.60
Sangiovese, Alicante, Syrah, & Carignan. The premier wine from Mario Batali and Joe Bastianich’s hot Maremma estate,
La Mozza, this debut bottling and original “Super-Med” is already a celeb about town.
TALENTI 1999 ROSSO TALENTI—RD4491 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $42.50
Sangiovese, Syrah, Colorino, & Canaiolo. From a pioneer of Brunello, this unique Rosso satisfies the Talenti
ideal—accessible luxury.
Photo: IWM in the Tenuta San Guido cellar with the aging 2004 Sassicaia.
HOW THE SUPER-TUSCANS CAME TO BE
PETROLO 2004 TORRIONE—RD4482 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$44.26
Sangiovese. One of many on this list that had a very good year. While voluptuous in ‘03, the balanced ‘04 gave this a
striking shape, accentuated by a polished come-hither manner.
I
n order to appreciate the Super-
Tuscan movement, it is necessary to
return to a period when the viticultural
regulations set forth by the wine classification
system limited creativity, expression,
and the qualitative potential of the terroir.
The revolutionary winemakers of the Super-
Tuscan movement made history by endeavoring
to challenge winemaking standards, thus
inciting a true enological crusade. Three
visionaries, in particular, possessed the
conviction necessary to challenge the stagnant
state of affairs and work towards recapturing
Toscana’s former glory.
The story of the Super-Tuscan pioneers
began in 1944, when the noble Mario Incisa
della Rocchetta perceived a likeness between
the coastal soil of his Tenuta San Guido estate
and that of the Graves appellation in
Bordeaux. Both were rocky, as the name
Graves suggests. With the assistance of
Tancredi Biondi-Santi he planted cuttings of
Cabernet Sauvignon from Bordeaux’s Château
Lafite and began to make the wine that he
later christened Sassicaia, or “stony ground.”
Sassicaia was introduced to the market in the
late sixties following a quarter century of
experimentation, the final years of which
involved the notable assistance of esteemed
winemaker Giacomo Tachis. It immediately
challenged the first growths and cult wines of
the world, becoming the most collected
Italian wine and a cellar trophy of aficionados.
While Sassicaia constituted the genesis of the
movement, Antinori’s Tignanello ignited its
soul. In contrast to Mario della Rocchetta,
Piero Antinori desired not to recreate a
Bordeaux-style claret, but rather, to convey
the versatility and finesse of the noble
Sangiovese. Drawing upon the consummate
skill of Tachis, Antinori realized his conception
in the form of the second official
Super-Tuscan—Tignanello—which starred
Sangiovese, supported by a minor contribution
from Cabernet. This constituted the
debut crafting of a barrique-aged Sangiovese
and the first modern red wine to include a
nontraditional varietal. Antinori began with
Tignanello and went on to produce Solaia in
1978 and Guado al Tasso in 1990.
Unfortunately, success wrought abuse and
exploitation, perpetrated via the indiscrimate
usage of international varietals, which served
to discredit the native Sangiovese. This
depreciation wrought a significant backlash,
most notably via the efforts of the late winemaker
Sergio Manetti and the flagship of his
Montevertine estate—Le Pergole Torte—the
first single-vineyard, 100% Sangiovese to be
classed as a Super-Tuscan, inspiring yet another
movement in this classification.
MONTEVERTINE 2001 PERGOLE TORTE—RD3068 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $79.95
Sangiovese. A single-vineyard pure-varietal Sangiovese bottling, Le Pergole Torte was the first of its kind to be produced
in Toscana. A personal favorite of Sergio’s, this landmark is prodigious in ‘01—pure elegance and profound complexity.
ANTINORI 2003 GUADO AL TASSO—RD4571 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $89.95
Cab. Sauv., Merlot, & Syrah. The flagship of Antinori’s Bolgheri estate, Guado al Tasso provided a close reflection of the
vintage in ‘03, yet the intensity finds support in the tannic structure, which will carry this wine well into the next decade.
ARGIANO 2000 SOLENGO—RD1387 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$89.95
Cab. Sauv., Merlot, & Syrah. Montalcino’s Super-Tuscan, Solengo captured a devoted audience from its debut. In 2000,
it seems a heady wonder, then time in the glass reveals the maturity gleaned with years in bottle.
ANTINORI 2000 TIGNANELLO—RD2034 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$93.38
Sangiovese & Cab. Sauvignon. Second on the Super-Tuscan list, the Tig wasn’t trying to be Toscana’s #1—Piero Antinori
desired to celebrate Sangiovese, allowing Cab only a minor role.
FONTODI 2004 FLACCIANELLO—RD4741 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$99.00
Sangiovese. One of the first cru Super-Tuscan Sangioveses, Fontodi’s ‘04 Flaccianello will enjoy a long cellar life, yet
many won’t experience its mature years, finding the present’s aromatics and palate intensity too irresistible.
CASTELLO DEI RAMPOLLA 2004 SAMMARCO—RD4775 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$103.17
Cab. Sauv., Merlot, & Sangiovese. Alceo di Napoli Rampolla celebrated his advocacy of Cabernet in Sammarco. The first
vintage’s reception silenced all opposition, and Sammarco continues to render some speechless.
SAN GIUSTO A RENTENNANO 2004 PERCARLO—RD4781 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $132.55
In 2004, this estate’s luxury 100% Sangiovese not only delivered what has become a routine expression of brilliance,
it emerged as a star of the vintage.
TENUTA DELL’ORNELLAIA 2004 ORNELLAIA—RD4506 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $169.95
Cab. Sauv., Merlot, Cab. Franc, & Petit Verdot. This formidable Bordeaux blend has demonstrated invariable excellence.
The ‘04 is emerging as one of its most classic expressions—a stellar selection for the cellar.
ISOLE E OLENA 1990 CEPPARELLO—RD3003 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$179.00
Isole e Olena’s Paolo de Marchi is regarded as one of the world’s premier small producers. From the miraculous
vintage of ‘90, the high-caliber Cepparello is drinking brilliantly, and will continue to realize further refinement.
* Wines and prices are subject to change, based on availability.
22 “Dio non ha creato che l’acqua...l’uomo ha fatto il vino.” www.italianwinemerchant.com • 212.473.2323 23

ITALY’S RAREST WHITE
The Prince & His Wines
ONLY AVAILABLE AT IWM
ITALY’S RAREST WHITE
I
n my 30 years with wine, I can honestly say I have never come across a more humbling
experience or intriguing glass of white wine. This story unites the dying wish of Italy’s
most celebrated wine/food critic and the wines of a reclusive and eccentric prince.
These precious gems represent the dedication and passion of Prince Alberico Boncompagni
Ludovisi (and his Fiorano estate), whose avant garde use of organic agriculture and a magical
white mold was ahead of his time. His ‘70’s, ‘80s, and ‘90s whites were phenomenons for their
ability to age, but they became true rarities as the prince was ever elusive and did not care to put
his wines in the wrong hands or with someone who would not deliver the same dedication. After
tearing up his vineyards to ensure this, Ludovisi passed his private cellar to the iconoclastic
Italian wine writer Luigi Veronelli, instructing him to place the bottles with individuals who
could keep his story and wines alive. His wish continues today, as the vintage wines have been
left to me by the late Veronelli, who presented me with the challenge of fulfilling his promise
to the prince. With this in mind, these wines will be made available only in an extremely allocated
assorted case, in an effort to find serious owners.
The two whites being offered, Bianco and Sémillon, range from the 1986 to 1994 vintage and
are only beginning to show their great destiny. We implore the recipients of these wines to
cellar a portion of their allotment up to 20 years so they may show their full grace and continue
the story fo the prince.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM FIORANO’S RARE CASE
To quote Eric Asimov, Chief Wine Critic for the New York Times, this is what you can expect
from further aging of these wines:
“The oldest (bianco), a 1978, was dry and fresh, with aromas of flowers, honey and minerals.
The flavors seemed to linger in the mouth forever. The wine in the other glasses was sémillon,
the backbone of great white Bordeaux but practically nonexistent in Italy. The oldest, a 1971,
had the lively mineral flavor of a fine Puligny-Montrachet.”
—Eric Asimov, The New York Times
FIORANO’S RARE ASSORTED CASE
Fiorano Bianco 1986 Botte 25 Fiorano Semillon 1992 Botte 46
Fiorano Bianco 1988 Botte 26 Fiorano Semillon 1993 Botte 22
Fiorano Semillon 1989 Botte 48 Fiorano Bianco 1994 Botte 26
Fiorano Semillon 1990 Botte 47 Fiorano Bianco 1994 Botte 46
Fiorano Bianco 1992 Botte 26 Fiorano Semillon 1994 Botte 47
Assorted Case Price (one of each)—#RD3114 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,200.00
“ The greatness of Fiorano is a secret shared by a few.”
—Burton Anderson
24 “Dio non ha creato che l’acqua...l’uomo ha fatto il vino.”
www.italianwinemerchant.com • 212.473.2323 25

STUDIO DEL GUSTO’S
Signature Events
IWM’s Studio del Gusto is a state-of-the-art wine tasting facility and learning laboratory for those
seeking to enrich their knowledge of Italy’s wine, food, and culture. The perfect setting for private
and corporate events, Studio del Gusto exudes the warmth of true Italian hospitality, a space where
guests enjoy a delicious gourmet-inspired tasting menu and experience exceptional wines from our
unparalleled collection.
Tasting events at Studio del Gusto can accommodate between 20 and 65 guests (seated events are
available for a maximum of 24 guests). Larger events for 66 to 120 guests include use of our
showroom—a space adorned with beautiful wine displays and brimming with Tuscan ambience.
TWO DIFFERENT FORMATS, ONE MEMORABLE WINE EXPERIENCE:
SEATED EVENTS IN STUDIO DEL GUSTO
• A seated format lends a formal feel to the event.
• Our sommeliers guide guests through expertly prepared wine and food pairings.
FAMILY-STYLE EVENTS IN STUDIO DEL GUSTO
• For a more relaxed, yet sophisticated evening, our culinary team prepares a delectable
tasting menu in our state-of-the-art open kitchen.
• The event is a fluid “walk around” format, creating a convivial atmosphere.
• During the event, our culinary team and lead sommelier will deliver brief talks describing
the history and preparation of the food courses from Italy, the origin and characteristics of
the wines, and how the wines pair with the food. A sommelier is available throughout the
evening for further discussion with your guests.
INSIDE STUDIO DEL GUSTO
STUDIO DEL GUSTO
While wine provides pleasure in many
contexts, the experience receives a profound
and unique expression in Italian Wine
Merchants’ Vintage Room. This space, which
simulates the conditions of a private wine cellar,
provides the setting for intimate wine tasting
events with elegance and sophistication.
LUNCH or DINNER
PRIVATE EVENTS in IWM’S VINTAGE TASTING ROOM
Experience Italy’s Old World charm and hospitality with a
vintage tasting right in the heart of Union Square
Honor the passion of the wine lover who
embraces all of the elements of wine’s culture
and aesthetic properties with the exquisite and
unparalleled experience of a Vintage Room
tasting event. The selected program will acclimate
tasters to the oftentimes mystifying
wines of Italy by illustrating the contrast
between modern and traditional winemaking
styles, providing an incisive introduction to
these collectible wines.
An IWM sommelier will provide insight
regarding the selected theme. An assortment
of cured meats, artisanal cheeses, and other
antipasti dishes, prepared by IWM’s culinary
experts, will be made available to enhance the
experience of the Vintage Room and Lecture.
VINTAGE WINE TASTING EXPERIENCE...................................$250–$575.00+ PER PERSON
Package includes wine and food pairings for four to eight guests, an IWM sommelier
for the evening, customized tasting menus, and IWM’s proprietary tasting notes.
IWM SHOWROOM
26 “Dio non ha creato che l’acqua...l’uomo ha fatto il vino.”
www.italianwinemerchant.com • 212.473.2323 27

OFFSITE TASTINGSCustom Events
BAROLO & TRUFFLE DINNER
BRING IWM HOME
Our customized offsite events afford us the
luxury of recreating the distinctive IWM wine
tasting experience in the environment of an
individual residence. From formal seated affairs
to more relaxed family-style arrangements, our
sommelier-guided wine tastings celebrate and
revel in the sensory delights of Italian wine and
food pairing. Menus are created by our culinary
team based on your needs and preferences, and
our experienced sommeliers ensure that wine
selections complement the chosen fare.
During the event, your sommelier will present
the wines and guide you and your guests
through a memorable and sophisticated tasting.
We offer an extensive repertoire of wine themes
encompassing all levels of wine experience, and
guests may also conceive an individualized
program addressing a particular passion or
interest. Popular themes include “Introduction
to the Boot,” developed specifically for the wine
enthusiast, and a “Vintage Barolo” tasting, edifying
serious connoisseurs.
ENTERTAIN CLIENTS & COLLEAGUES
The unique wine tasting experience offered at
IWM may be translated into a customized event
in the work space or at a desired corporate event
location. Our wine tastings afford a distinctive
take on the corporate event, and their design is
amenable to several adaptations, from the
simple cocktail reception to a seated five-course
dinner. Our team conceives a menu inspired by
the chosen wines, which are formally presented
by our sommeliers during the event.
High visibility corporate events may also involve
the participation of our owner, Sergio Esposito,
and the collaborative efforts of celebrity chefs,
creating high-caliber culinary experiences.
PRIVATE SATURDAY WINE TASTING & LECTURE
IWM is offering an exclusive Saturday wine tasting series that you can share as a gift with
fellow wine lovers. Whether one is just beginning to explore Italian wine or is seeking to expand
a substantial collection, this scheduled private wine tasting and lecture with an IWM sommelier
makes for a special and meaningful gift. Guests will be received in IWM’s Vintage Tasting
Room, where a glass of Prosecco will commence a tasting of an indigenous white wine, a
Barolo, and a Brunello. House-cured meats and Italian cheeses will be served to complement
the wines. (40 minutes, limited to four guests)
• Designed for intimate events (four guests)
• Private tasting room (unique setting & atmosphere)
• Lectures by IWM sommeliers and Portfolio Managers
• Antipasti prepared by IWM’s in-house culinary team
IWM caters to all settings—indoor and outdoor.
PRIVATE SATURDAY WINE TASTING & LECTURE ...................................................$250.00
F
or many connoisseurs,
the ultimate gastronomic
experience arrives each
November when the intoxicating
aromas of the rare Tartufo Bianco
d’Alba are unearthed by the local
trifulaus (truffle hunters) under
the dark skies and fog that linger
over the Langhe Hills. The white
truffle is prized for its intensity
and rarity, and finds its quintessential
match in Barolo, which is
elevated when the “King of
Wine” reaches maturity. The
heady qualities of the white truffle
and the intense demand to
experience such culinary transcendence
command commensurate
prices. (Piemonte’s winter
black truffle delivers another
prized experience, although the
flavor profile is not quite as transfixing as that
of the white, rendering it more accessible to a
wider audience[prices start at $250/per
pound]).
The IWM Vintage Tasting Room provides an
exquisite backdrop for an authentic Vintage
Barolo and White Truffle Wine Dinner. Chefs
prepare a five-course meal of classic dishes
from the Piemonte region, highlighting the
seasonal white truffles imported directly from
Italy just prior to the event. An IWM sommelier
serves as host, pouring a selection of
vintage Barolos from eminent producers such
as Bruno Giacosa and Aldo Conterno. This
special wine dinner is designed for four to six
guests and is priced in accordance with the
relevant seasonal value of the truffles. To
arrange your special evening, please contact
Caroline Mirschel at 212-473-2323, x109.
Menù dell’Assaggio
Passatelli with Fonduta of Parmigiano-Reggiano &
White Truffle
BRUNO GIACOSA BARBARESCO
Soft Stone-Ground Polenta with Extra-Virgin Olive Oil,
Parmigiano Reggiano & White Truffle
GAJA CONTEISA
Confit of Black Truffle with Beef Carpaccio, Purée of
Heirloom Beans & Cauliflower
BARTOLO MASCARELLO BAROLO
Braised Veal Cheeks with Black Truffles
on a Potato and Savoy Cabbage Cake with Lentil Broth
GIACOMO CONTERNO MONFORTINO RISERVA
Chocolate Truffles
FANTINO NEBBIOLO PASSITO
(Sample)
Photo: A trifulau (truffle hunter) unearths the “White
Diamond of Alba.” Each fall the trifulaus and their
trained dogs scour the night in search of the rare
truffles that retail for $3,200 to $5,000 a pound.
28 “Dio non ha creato che l’acqua...l’uomo ha fatto il vino.”
www.italianwinemerchant.com • 212.473.2323 29

CELLAR MANAGEMENT & COLLECTING SOLUTIONS
Cellar Management Solutions
IWM’s integrated suite of services combines the luxury of having your own
personal Wine Buyer and Cellar Master with the convenience and control of
our advanced Online Cellar Tracking Software.
CELLAR MANAGEMENT
CELLAR BUILDER KIT
This kit draws upon IWM’s integrated suite of services, offering the aspiring collector the tools
necessary for building a balanced collection. Recipients will receive an assorted case of
collectibles, accompanied by a three-month subscription to IWM’s Cellar Management Solutions
program and will have access to an Online Wine Tracking Tool, a Cellar Master, and a Portfolio
Manager. It is the complete package for building, maintaining, and enjoying your collection.
Our services can help you:
• Build a collection from scratch • Analyze and grow an existing collection
• Track purchases and consumption • Learn about the wine in your collection
• Update and view storage details • Create tasting notes • Inventory and organize
Our complete portfolio of cellar management services includes the following:
WINES INCLUDED (12 WINES):
• Barolo (2)
• Brunello di Montalcino (2)
• Barbaresco (2)
• Amarone (2)
• Super-Tuscan (2)
• Cult Wine (2)
CELLAR MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS:
• Online Cellar Account (Virtual Cellar)
• IWM’s Wine Tracking Tool
• Personal Cellar Master
• Bottle Tags with Drink Terms
• Cellar Management e-Letter
• Monthly Cellar Report
CELLAR BUILDER KIT
#TC-CELLARBUILDER
$960.00
WINE TRACKING SOFTWARE
A comprehensive solution
for tracking every aspect of
your collection: purchases,
storage details, consumption,
personal tasting notes—each
recorded with precision in
your easy-to-use online cellar
account. In addition, our
software will give you access
to our database of over
30,000 wines, complete with
the most detailed information
of any tracking tool.
Whether you send us an
inventory spreadsheet or let
us perform an onsite inventory,
we will enter data into
your online account for you.
PERSONAL CELLAR MASTER
This feature is a hallmark of
our program, enabling us to
ensure that our busy clients
are deriving the maximum
potential and benefits from
their collections. A Personal
Cellar Master that will:
• Supervise online account
• Track depletion and
purchases
• Maintain overall organization
of collection, including
bottle tags
• Report on: Consumption,
Inventory, Monthly
Drinkability, Serving Tips
RECOMMENDED DRINKING
TERMS AND BOTTLE TAGS
Any wine entered into your
online account is assigned a
recommended drinking window,
reflecting peak drinkability.
This is reiterated in
your monthly cellar report.
Your Cellar Master will automatically
enter into your
online account any wine
purchased from IWM, and
will then send a tag for each
bottle that indicates the
wine’s region of origin, varietal,
drink term, and more.
CELLAR ANALYSIS AND
PERSONAL WINE BUYER
IWM recognizes that a
balanced wine portfolio must
incorporate the collector’s
personal preferences, objectives,
and consumption, and
should include appropriate
proportions of everyday
wines, wines to lay down, and
wines to impress guests.
IWM extends this approach
by going outside of Italy with
our Cellar Management program.
Your Porfolio Manager
will analyze your collection
and develop personalized
buying strategies for Italian
and non-Italian wines from
Bordeaux to Rioja.
MONTHLY CELLAR REPORT
Your Cellar Master (CM) will
work with you and your
assigned Wine Portfolio
Manager to ensure that every
detail of your collection is
maintained.
Each month a CM will send
you a detailed report indicating
the state of your collection,
including:
• Drink Now and Drink
Soon recommendations
• Drinking Suggestions (how
long to decant or pairings)
• Outstanding Pre-Arrivals
• Cellar Observations
• Buying Recommendations
• Consumption & Purchases
ADDITIONAL SERVICES
If the standard service does
not meet every one of your
needs, you may choose from
our menu of additional
products and services:
• Physical Inventory by your
personal Cellar Master
• Cellar Organization and
Bottle Tagging
• Leather-bound Cellar Book
with Cellar Lists and
Producer and Wine Notes
• Bottle Appraisal and
Liquidation
For more information on how
to approach and balance your
collection, contact a Cellar
Master at 212.473.2323, x101.
30 “Dio non ha creato che l’acqua...l’uomo ha fatto il vino.”
www.italianwinemerchant.com • 212.473.2323 31

COLLECTOR’S CASE
THE LEGENDARY ITALIAN COLLECTION
Presenting Italy’s rarest case offering in the United States.
ith the largest selection of vintage
and limited-production Italian wines
W
in the world, Italian Wine Merchants
has narrowed the list to the pinnacle 12, culminating
in Italy’s rarest wine offering in the
United States. This definitive collection is
highlighted by the Holy Grail of all Italian
wine—the historic 1985 Sassicaia. Other
acclaimed bottlings include the cult Masseto,
which shares the esteemed status of Pétrus for
its mastery and terroir-driven expression of
the Merlot grape; Quintarelli’s Alzero, which
can only draw comparison to Cheval Blanc for
its superior representation of Cabernet Franc;
a pair of iconic bottlings from Montalcino’s
fathers, Biondi-Santi and Soldera; and two
monuments to Barolo Riserva, Monfortino and
Granbussia. With only ten cases available from
IWM, the Legendary Collector’s Case is the ultimate
gift for any serious wine collector and is
unavailable anywhere else.
Each bottle in this elite, unparalleled case represents
a defining expression in Italian wine
revered by critics and collectors. These are
wines that constitute the soul of Italy’s wine
culture, representing iconic producers and
their marquis labels via acclaimed vintages,
thereby delivering the consummate expression
of a wine that is, in and of itself, a profound
articulation of philosophy, innovation, and
passion. In a sense, this may very well constitute
the ultimate wish list of the passionate
and astute collector of Italian wine, bringing
together bottlings that are difficult to acquire
on an individual basis.
LEGENDARY COLLECTOR’S CASE (ONLY 10 CASES AVAILABLE)
1. Tenuta dell’Ornellaia 2001 Masseto 7. Quintarelli 1990 Alzero
2. Giacosa 2000 Barolo ‘Falletto’ Riserva 8. Tenuta San Guido 1990 Sassicaia
3. Tua Rita 2000 Redigaffi 9. Aldo Conterno 1990 Granbussia
4. Giacomo Conterno 2000 Monfortino 10. Gaja 1985 Barbaresco
5. Romano Dal Forno 2000 Amarone 11. Tenuta San Guido 1985 Sassicaia
6. Case Basse di Soldera 1990 Brunello 12. Biondi-Santi 1982 Brunello Riserva
LARGE FORMATS
MAGNUMS (1.5 LITER)
Bruno Giacosa 2003 Spumante Brut (Piemonte) —SPK59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$79.95
Castiglion del Bosco 2001 Brunello (Toscana)—RD4047 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$99.99
Bovio 1996 Barolo ‘Vigna Arborina’ (Piemonte)—RD4469 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$124.88
La Castellada 2001 Bianco (Friuli)—WH713 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$129.77
Querciabella 1999 Camartina (Toscana)—RD4085 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$147.34
Talenti 1999 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva (Toscana)—RD4025 . . . . . . . . . .$159.50
Gravner 2001 Breg Anfora (Friuli)—WH921 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$188.74
Bartolo Mascarello 2000 Barolo (Piemonte)—RD3559 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$198.00
Montevertine 2003 Le Pergole Torte (Toscana)—RD4550 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$222.75
Giacomo Conterno 2000 Barolo Cascina Francia (Piemonte)—RD2469 . . . . .$249.00
Sandrone 1998 Barolo ‘Cannubi Boschis’ (Piemonte)—RD2255 . . . . . . . . . . . .$349.00
San Felice 1990 Brunello Campogiovanni (Toscana)—RD3770 . . . . . . . . . . . . .$425.00
Quintarelli 1999 Amarone della Valpolicella (Veneto)—RD4458 . . . . . . . . . . .$699.99
Giacomo Conterno 2000 Barolo Monfortino (Piemonte)—RD4548 . . . . . . . . .$799.95
Quintarelli 1995 Amarone Riserva (Veneto)—RD4461 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,395.10
Tenuta San Guido 1985 Sassicaia (Toscana)—RD3594 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$5,400.00
JEROBOAMS (3 LITER)
Capanna 2001 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva (Toscana)—RD4448 . . . . . . . .$299.90
Bruno Giacosa 1998 Barbaresco ‘Asili’ (Piemonte)—RD1185 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$510.00
Bruno Giascosa 2003 Barolo ‘Falletto’ (Piemonte)—RD4634 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$798.95
Giacomo Conterno 1999 Monfortino Riserva (Piemonte)—RD4343 . . . . . . .$1,650.00
Quintarelli 1995 Amarone Riserva (Veneto)—RD4462 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$2,903.00
REHOBOAMS (5 LITER)
Fèlsina 2000 Chianti Riserva (Toscana)—RD4178 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$330.00
Sogno Due 2005 Falanghina (Campania)—WH1148 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$420.75
Gaja 2001 Conteisa (Piemonte)—RD3491 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,241.80
SALMANAZER (9 LITER)
Allegrini 1999 Amarone (Veneto)—RD3026 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,155.00
BALTHAZARS (12 LITER)
Montevertine 2000 Le Pergole Torte (Toscana)—RD1949 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,972.00
Wines and prices are subject to change, based on availability.
Assorted Case Price (one of each)—#TC-COLLECTORS . . . . . . . . . . .$10,000.00
32 “Dio non ha creato che l’acqua...l’uomo ha fatto il vino.”
www.italianwinemerchant.com • 212.473.2323 33

SERGIO’S UPCOMING RELEASE
A Memoir of Food, Wine, and Family in the Heart of Italy
PASSION on the VINE
With an exuberant attitude and an utterly unique perspective,
Passion on the Vine captures the true essence of Italy.
The Brunello vineyards of Poggio di Sotto located just outside Castelnuovo dell’Abate in Montalcino.
A
s a young child in Naples, Sergio
Esposito learned to appreciate the
deep relationship between food and
wine. Sitting at his kitchen table, he watched
his mother, father, aunts, and
uncles as they paired local dishes
with simple country wines. So it
seemed inevitable that the boy
who savored thimblefuls of
Sangiovese mixed with water
would grow up to become
America’s foremost authority of
Italian wines. When his family
immigrated to America, they
were welcomed by their wellmeaning
relatives with a bland,
uninspired meal, and his mother
would soon discover that it was not easy to
find the ingredients she needed to create
authentic Italian dishes. Clearly America’s
palate was in need of a makeover and as a
young man Sergio was inspired to open
Italian Wine Merchants, a shop dedicated to
bringing the most authentic Italian wines to
America.
Passion on the Vine is Sergio’s evocative memoir
of his journey from Italy to America and
his frequent trips back to his homeland, some
with his growing family in tow. He takes you
to the cold hills of Friuli, the world-famous
cellars of Piedmont, the sweeping estates of
Tuscany, the windy beaches of Le Marche,
and the lush fields of Campania. Along the
way he introduces a cast of remarkable characters,
not the least of which are his own
mother and father-at times exasperating but
always endearing. You’ll also meet the man
who introduced Italy’s wine and gastronomic
heritage to the world; a ballroom-dancing
winemaker who
bases his farming on the rhythm
of the moon; and an obsessive
prince who destroys his
vineyards before his death so
that his grapes will never be used
incorrectly.
A very personal celebration of
food, wine, and family that no
one will be able to resist, Passion
on the Vine is quite simply the
most beautiful love letter to Italy you will
ever have the pleasure of reading.
Preorder your signed First Edition
PASSION ON THE VINE: A Memoir of
Food, Wine, and Family in the Heart of Italy
Hardcover: 224 pages
Price: $24.95
ISBN: 0-7679-2607-2
On Sale: Spring 2008
For more information or to preorder your copy
of Sergio Esposito’s Passsion on the Vine,
please contact us at 212.473.2323.
34 “Dio non ha creato che l’acqua...l’uomo ha fatto il vino.”
www.italianwinemerchant.com • 212.473.2323 35