Two Italians go into a bar . . .

[Florida Jim]

2002 Donnafugata, Anthilia:

The label notes this is a blend of Ansonica and Catarratto; two grapes I am not familiar with. This blend from Sicily has a muted fruit and beeswax nose with low-acidity and a flavor profile that reminds me of Greco based wines. It is fresh and pleasing, albeit simple and is clearly for drinking today.

2001 B. Giacosa, Nebbiolo d’Alba:

(This is not the Valmaggiore bottling.)

Clean, un-manipulated, well-structured and balanced Nebbiolo is just hard to beat. This is lighter than Barolo and Barbaresco, is more structured than most Valtellina, and, is a shining example of what this grape can taste like when made in an immediately accessible style. A nice accompaniment to grilled chicken (and how many Nebbiolo can you say that about?)

Delicious now, will cellar short term.

Best, Jim