A Great Familiar Face

Sometimes we spend so much time searching for that new idea, we tend to have blinders on and we miss golden opportunities right in front of us. I spend a tremendous amount of time researching Italian Wines, I travel to wine shows and am always searching for that new wine to use as our wine of the month in Varano’s. The key is to find a wine that is a great bargain and drinks like a more expensive bottle of wine. This is a great tool to introduce customers to different varietals that aren’t as familiar as Sangiovese and Pinot Grigio. I love it when customers tell me how much they enjoy my selection, and want to know where they can purchase the wine. One of the other keys to this promotion is to make sure the wine is not available in Supermarkets. This tends to solidify the experience, as the wine is not readily accessible. People love a good treasure hunt, and it can be a lot of fun searching to find your new favorite wine. The chain continues when customers then entertain in their own homes and introduce their new favorite wine to their friends.

Recently I revisited an old friend, Campofiorin from Masi. I have tasted Campofiorin many, many times and always enjoy it. I’ve been to seminars with the president of Masi, I’ve had dinner at Serego Alighiere, (a vineyard Masi works in conjunction with) during Vin Italy. I’ve had the pleasure of touring their property and cellars. The commitment to excellence and quality, tradition and values is quite impressive. During my visit, I was most impressed by the entire staff, everyone is totally committed to the Masi vision and works with a noticeable pride. The wine is spectacular and you can’t help falling in love with all their wines.

Recently I re-tasted Campofiorin and shook my head at the ignorance I’ve had for not featuring this wine more often. This Super Venetian is spectacular and delivers all the qualities you would expect in a great bottle of wine. Masi is masterful with their double fermentation process, producing an exceptional bottle of wine at any price. I tend to drink Amarone and love the single vineyard Amarones produced at Masi, they are truly special and are more of a special occasion wine, they are very limited in production and not readily available. Campofiorin is the perfect compromise, it is very affordable, readily available and drinks like a champ. I’m glad someone woke me up and took the blinders off and reintroduced me to my old friend. Vin Italy is around the corner and I look forward to another fabulous tasting with the Masi Family, it’s always special for me and one of my highlights.

Dick Varano