Here are two wines that go so well with one of my favorite summer meals, linguine with white clam sauce. They are actually both the same wine, Costamolino, Vermentino di Sardegna by the noted family vineyard Cantine Argiolas, but since Vermentino ages so well the difference between the 2008 and 2011 is dramatic.
Our dinner started with a wonderful cocktail of cucumber, lemon, rosemary, agave and vodka, all organic from local farmers, our own garden or other good providers we use.
The clams came from Cassidy's in Viking Village, Barnegat Light, Long Beach Island, NJ by way of the wonderful fish mongers at our own Montclair Farmers' Market. They are always so delicious.
I used Anne Burrell's recipe from Food Network. But Lidia Bastianich's recipe on PBS is quite good too.
We accompanied the meal with fresh corn from Richfield Farms on Van Houten in Clifton, made on the grill.
Vermentino, when it is young, is a bright translucent lemon-green color and has balmy scents of citrus, on the tongue it has tropical flavors and touches of sweet honey with nice acidity and a sea side essence that is very food friendly.
In time the wine becomes darker almost honey in color, the flavors mature and become richer. Pear and vanilla, along with the pineapple, citrus and other tropical tastes that are typical of this grape. The mouth feel is more intense, the luxury of this wine is so sensuous.
In both the bright sea air and sunshine of Sardinia is ever present.
We were split on which we liked better. The younger seem better for everyday drinking with salads or lighter dishes. A great summer quaffing wine. The 2008 stood up to the intense flavors of the pasta dish and seemed like it would be better with richer foods.
I have enjoyed many wines from this vineyard for many years. they offer great value and are consistently good.
Read more Italian Whites to Silence the Snickers
ARGIOLAS SpAVia Roma, 28/30 - 09040 Serdiana (CA) Sardegna, Italia
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