The Artisanal Pour
FEATURED WINE REGION: Northern Italy
It would probably be more accurate to say ‘featured regions’ since Italy has more diversity in terroir and grape varieties than anywhere else on the planet. Starting from the top, Lagrein produces fruity, approachable wines in Alto Adige, just south of the Austrian border. The Veneto, near Verona is home to Valpolicella, a fruity and generous wine made from three local grapes and an indigenous winemaking method. West of the Veneto is Friuli, and its namesake white grape Friulano. Masut da Rive’s version of Friulano is rich and ripe, yet elegant. No focus on Northern Italy would be complete without including Piemonte. Tenuta San Giuliano’s Roero Arneis is a white wine that often carries a little sparkle and dazzling acidity—an ideal aperitif. We also feature a sapid, cherry-laced Barbera D’Asti from Damilano, and a Dolcetto from Ada Nada. The foods these wines pair well with bridge the transition from winter to spring. The whites are brilliant with shellfish, Branzini, Skate and our Lobster salad. The reds work well with braised dishes, duck and other winter staples. The native grape varieties of northern Italy yield some of the most original wines available, and we feel like they deserve a special place next to the chesses and cuisine Artisanal specializes in.
FEATURED BREWERIES: AMERICAN & LOCAL
New York is home to some of the best breweries in America. This season Artisanal has added several local 750mL and 22oz craft beers to its list. From Williamsburg's own elegant and complex Brooklyn Local 1, to the rich, dark Ommengang Abbey Ale from Cooperstown, NY. Each selected to pair perfectly with our new all-American charcuterie and cheese plate, featuring Kunik from New York, Grayson from Virginia and Crater Lake Blue from Oregon, as well as beer-friendly condiments like Maple Sugar Popcorn and Cranberry Ginger Compote. Share New York's wealth with beer lovers by capping off craft beers from local breweries.
FEATURED COCKTAIL
Poire Volant:
¼ oz pear puree
¼ oz Liqueur de Poire
¼ oz St. Germain
Top with champagne and stir to incorporate Garnish with a pear slice.