The Nexus Club in New York City, an exclusive haven of art and luxury, recently hosted a groundbreaking vertical tasting dinner for its members, curated by Colangelo & Partners. This one-of-a-kind event showcased the pinnacle wines of two legendary Italian producers, Damilano and Tua Rita, offering guests a rare opportunity to experience their finest vintages.
The Evening’s Highlights
The event featured an exquisite tasting journey through celebrated vintages of Damilano’s Barolo and Tua Rita’s SuperTuscan creations. Notable wines included the Damilano Barolo Cannubi Riserva “1752” 2016, awarded a perfect 100 points by James Suckling, and Tua Rita’s Redigaffi, the cult-status Merlot with its own 100-point accolades. This exceptional pairing of Piedmont and Tuscan wines highlighted Italy’s diverse vinous heritage.
About Damilano: Guardians of Barolo’s Legacy
Damilano represents more than a century of winemaking tradition rooted in the Barolo region, often referred to as “the king of wines.” The winery’s hallmark is its meticulous stewardship of historic crus, including Cannubi, Brunate, Cerequio, and Liste. Each vineyard imparts its own distinct terroir-driven character.
- Cannubi: The pinnacle of elegance with floral aromas of rose and violet, evolving into cherry and tobacco notes.
- Brunate: Rich and persuasive with hints of truffle and spices, balanced by finesse from its clay and silt soils.
- Cerequio: Robust and tannic with a bouquet of cherry, balsamic notes, and tar.
- Liste: A structured wine with bold tannins and velvety nuances of licorice and cocoa.
Damilano’s Barolo DOCG Riserva Cannubi “1752” exemplifies the winery’s ethos of patience and precision. Aged for seven years, it delivers a profound expression of Nebbiolo’s complexity and depth. The family also operates a Michelin-starred restaurant in La Morra, further cementing their influence on Piedmont’s culinary and oenological culture.
About Tua Rita: Innovators of the SuperTuscan Era
Tua Rita, nestled in the Colline Metallifere hills of Tuscany, revolutionized Italian winemaking with their Redigaffi, the first Italian wine to receive a 100-point rating from Robert Parker. Founded in 1984, the estate is synonymous with precision, sustainability, and bold experimentation.
- Redigaffi: A pure Merlot with silky tannins and a distinctive minerality that captures the terroir of Suvereto.
- Per Sempre: A Syrah with vibrant spice and depth, honoring the founder’s passion for this varietal.
- Lodano Rosso: A blend of Petit Verdot and Merlot, delivering an intense, harmonious profile.
- Giusto di Notri: A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, embodying the freshness and balance of Tuscany.
Each wine reflects Tua Rita’s dedication to natural rhythms and artisanal craftsmanship. Their amphora-aged Keir Syrah and Keir Ansonica are prime examples of their forward-thinking philosophy, offering pure varietal expressions with a nod to ancient winemaking traditions.
The Nexus Club: A Perfect Venue
Located in Lower Manhattan, the Nexus Club offered the ideal backdrop for this exclusive evening. Designed by Morris Adjmi Architects, the club’s curated art collection and thoughtfully designed spaces complemented the sophistication of the wines. The vertical tasting celebrated not just the artistry of wine but also the luxurious ambiance and cultural richness of the club.
This extraordinary event not only celebrated Italy’s winemaking heritage but also underscored the synergy between tradition and innovation. For wine connoisseurs, it was a night to remember—an exploration of time, terroir, and the timeless pursuit of excellence.
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