We talked about tariffs last week, and we'll talk about them again this week, because they're still on the table, and they're a huge threat. France is intent on taxing American tech firms, but the 100% wine tariffs that were proposed in relation to that dispute seem to be on hold until 2021. The aerospace spat rages on, and the current 25% tariff on some European wine could be applied to all wines from Europe, as well as a wide range of the continent's goods, from butter to bicycle parts. What's more, the percentage of the tariff could increase, as well as being applied more widely. We'll know more mid-February.
The 25% wine tariff that was applied in October made little, if any sense. How does one protect Boeing by putting pressure on small European farms and small American businesses? The current 25% tariff should be abolished immediately, yet right now more tariffs are being considered. A small importer with a large order on the water right now could face financial ruin if increased tariffs were implemented in February. Why not put a tariff on the Airbus airplanes scheduled to be delivered to domestic airlines? Maybe because the airline industry has some serious lobbying power, and any such idea would be squashed real quick.
For now, Italian wine is not subject to any tariff. So let's try four fine values from up and down the boot (not too far down, just tickling the ankle this time).
Perusini Colli Orientali del Friuli DOC Pinot Grigio 2018
It's hard to tell what people expect from Pinot Grigio. It's a fine grape and all, but there's an ocean of supremely marketable mouthwash that sullies the family name as fine and decent wine. Perusini's Pinot Grigio is an upstanding citizen of the vinous world. It's organic Pinot macerated on the skins for 6 to 8 hours, unctuous and exotic on the palate, distinctive and worthy of its noble appellations. Lets take this opportunity to start a new conversation about Pinot Grigio.
Diego Conterno Dolcetto d'Alba 2018
So good and so cheap, that's how we want Dolcetto to be, and to stay. This wine is a steal at $15: organic Dolcetto grown in the Barolo commune of Monforte d'Alba, effusively juicy and fresh, perfect for your next vitello tonnato or beet carpaccio.
Perticaia Montefalco Rosso 2016
The name of this winery, Perticaia, refers to the plow, the instrument that forever changed the relationship between humans and arable land. Organic since founding in 2000, Perticaia's focus is on their land and the unique wines that Umbria has to offer. Their Montefalco Rosso is a blend of Sangiovese with small amounts of Colorino and Sagrantino, and it's always a sleeper. The 2013 is still fresh and primary and we are very excited about the arrival of the 2016, a banner vintage for much of Italy.
Tenuta Pederzana Lambrusco Grasparossa 'Puntamora' 2016
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