The 12th edition of the Italian (sustainable) food and wine Summit was opened on Saturday 6th November with two exclusive events within the splendid Mandarin Oriental in Jumeira beach, Dubai: the Grand Gala that welcomed authorities and prominent personalities of the UAE, and Hidden and Sustainable Gems of Italian Wines where Dubai’s most important sommeliers, wine merchants and F&B operators had the chance to meet the producers of some of the best Italian wineries and learn about their vision of Sustainability.
Hidden Gems was in fact focused on sustainability, the purpose of the event was to give voice to some outstanding wine makers, such as Ricasoli, Pio Cesare, Tenute Silvio Nardi and Varvaglione, who shared their commitment and their strong will to produce high quality wines respecting the vines, the soil and the environment.
The wines were paired to a special menu prepared by Michelin starred Chefs such as Heinz Beck, Paolo Gramaglia, Max Mascia, Sara Preceruti and Sergio Vineis.
The Sommeliers Simone Luca Gagliardi and Anna Paclet set a blind tasting as they wanted to play with the emotions and suggestions of the guests, allowing an honest and exciting exchange between producers and operators, unaware of the labels they were tasting.
The hidden gems did not struggle to be identified..!
Historia Familiae by Ricasoli, a complex and sensual wine accessible only to members of a private club of wine lovers or on IWCB.
Bricco del Treiso by Pio Cesare, a Barbaresco cru of extreme finesse, presented by the young and talented producer Federica Boffa who moved the public with a speech that transpired great passion and knowledge.
Manachiara by Tenute Silvio Nardi, presenting an outstanding single vineyard Brunello di Montalcino, pure expression of territoriality and elegance.
Varvaglione and its splendid Primitivo di Manduria Papale Oro, with its power and richness resulting from the experience that has been handed down from father to son for more than 100 years.
From North to South Italy wines of the highest level with a common vision: respect for the planet.
