Castello di Amorosa Fall/Winter Newsletter

e l e b r ating Te n Years

C 2007~2017

Fall/Winter 2017 Newsletter

Anniversary Edition

News from Il Padrone

“ on Jour” from Chateau de Bois Morand, my Asked when she drank
newest castle, located four hours southwest of Paris. Built in wine (champagne),
1396, it is on a river and includes 80 acres, animals, 20,000 Lily Bollinger (1899-1977)
square feet of castle and 13,000 more of outbuildings. I spent
part of the spring here, which gave me the opportunity to get acquainted replied:
with the many rooms and the feel of this castle.
“I drink it when I'm happy and
As much as an additional castle is exciting, I am proud and thrilled to be when I'm sad. Sometimes I drink it
celebrating the 10th anniversary of Castello di Amorosa, here in Napa Valley.
The celebration was kicked off in April with a special Anniversary Luncheon when I'm alone. When I have
and a 10-year vertical tasting of Il Barone. I look forward to the next 10 years company I consider it obligatory.
with castles – here or there.
I trifle with it if I'm not hungry
and drink it when I am.

Otherwise I never touch it…
unless I'm thirsty.”

A small piece of French design in Napa: The 10-year vertical tasting of Il Barone Reserve Cabernet
My classic French Citroën 2 CV. Sauvignon at the Anniversary Luncheon (page 12-13).

CastellodiAmorosa.com ~ ~2
Fall/Winter · 2017

2017 Harvest Update

fter four years of drought in California,
the skies finally opened this past winter,
dumping record breaking rain and snow throughout the state and
bringing much needed relief to the reservoirs and waterways all
over the North Coast. The first half of the 2017 vintage has been a rollercoaster
of a growing season with record rainfall over the winter quickly transitioning
to sunny spring days, punctuated by a brief hail storm in June and several heat
spikes into triple digit temperatures in the early summer months.

Throughout the season, however, we have seen excellent growth in the
vineyards, and our vineyard management team has worked hard to both
curtail the extra growth brought about by the rains, and protect the young
clusters from the summer sun. We are expecting harvest to begin in late
August, roughly a week or so later compared to the last few years, bringing
the season back to a more normal pace compared to the early harvests we’d
seen during the drought years. We are also expecting a good to above average
crop size, with excellent fruit quality consistent with Napa Valley.

We have been busy spending the summer months bottling our 2015 vintage
red wines and preparing for the upcoming harvest season, which includes
the addition of several brand new fermentation tanks on the Crush Pad.
These new tank sizes will give us more options to perfectly match a tank
to each vineyard pick as the fruit comes in throughout the fall. The unique
rectangular shape of these tanks can also fit up to 25% more juice than
traditional cylindrical tanks in the same footprint, making them more space
and energy efficient. We are excited for these new additions to our Crush Pad
just in time for the start of the 2017 harvest season, and are looking forward
to welcoming this newest vintage to the Castello!

Winemaker, july 2017

Margarito Rivera, Cellar Master

Margarito joined the Castello team
recently, having worked with our Director

of Winemaking Brooks Painter nearly
two decades ago at another Napa Valley
winery. His dedication and excellent work
ethic have made him a valuable addition

to our winemaking team.

CastellodiAmorosa.com ~3~ Fall/Winter · 2017

OTorddaeyr! Building Castello di A

“Bravo is all I can say — that someone
could have a dream and, against all odds,
realize it and also make it pay. Do we not

all have castles in our dreams?”
– Francis Ford Coppola

The epic story behind the building of the Castello
~ by Dario Sattui ~

REGULAR PRICE: $39.95
WINE CLUB MEMBER PRICE: $34.95

To purchase this book, go to:
www.castellodiamorosa.com/Shop/Gift-Shop

or call our Wine Club office: 707-967-6274

With 224 pages full of hundreds of lush photos
of the magnificent castle and grounds, Castello di
Amorosa: A Labor of Love tells the improbable story of the castle’s
construction and includes an exclusive tour of the castle that only its
creator could deliver.
Bound to delight readers interested in Napa Valley history,
winemaking, and medieval architecture, Castello di Amorosa will
undoubtedly thrill the castle’s legion of fans around the world.

The Covered Loggia above the Courtyard was The Knight’s Hall, where guests can taste wines
modeled off Dario’s properties in Tuscany and explore the “whispering walls”

CastellodiAmorosa.com ~4~ Fall/Winter · 2017

Amorosa: A Labor of Love

Then – Construction of the cross-vault arch ceilings Now – The 12,000 sq ft Grand Barrel Room, with

of the Grand Barrel Room 40 Roman cross-vaulted archways

Then – Construction on the arched staircase leading Now – Entrance to the Lower Courtyard

to the Il Passito Club Member’s Room

~ From Castello di Amorosa: A Labor of Love ~

“In my mind, everything had to can’t build an ‘old structure’ using modern
be authentic, or it wouldn’t be techniques and tools. It would look fake, and
worth the effort. Faking it in everyone would realize it’s an imitation. Rather,
any way might be all right for others, but we were going to build the structure – within
the limits of the current building code – using
I would know the difference, making it the same techniques medieval builders had
relied on eight hundred years ago.” (pp 50-51)
a failed attempt to explore my passion

for medieval architecture. You simply

CastellodiAmorosa.com ~5~ Fall/Winter · 2017

The Greatest Wine Club

ake part in

our Midsummer
Medieval Festival
dressed in the latest 13th
century fashion. Step into a barrel and
crush grapes with your own feet at our
Harvest Celebration. Get a thrill and
a chill at the Halloween Pagan Ball.
Or ring in the New Year at our New
Year’s Eve Gatsby Gala.

Welcome to the famiglia!

2017

The Pagan Ball - Friday, October 27, 2017 Cinquecento Cavalieri Winemaker Dinners - Fri. & Sat., Nov. 10 & 11, 2017

Holiday Wreaths for Charity - Saturday, December 2, 2017 New Year's Eve Gatsby Gala - Sunday, December 31, 2017

CastellodiAmorosa.com ~6~ Fall/Winter · 2017

Events in the Napa Valley

~ For more information and to book tickets ~

Visit www.castellodiamorosa.com/Wine-Club-Events
or contact our Wine Club office at 707-967-6274

Harvest Stomp & BBQ - Friday, September 22, 2017
2018

A Parisian Royal Hearts Repast - Friday, February 16, 2018 Grand Barrel Party - Friday, May 4, 2018

Medieval Midsummer Feast - Friday, June 22, 2018 Hot Havana Nights - Friday, July 27, 2018

CastellodiAmorosa.com ~7~ Fall/Winter · 2017

Sustainability

GrapRe –eed Oil

Guests can see recipe
our grapeseed
press in action Fresh Tomato Tart
at the Fattoria
Ingredients:
ario sattui's passion for sustain- Pie crust
1 lb mozzarella, thinly sliced
ability extends beyond the 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced
vineyard and wine making 2 tsp fresh chopped oregano
¼ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
process, including finding ways to utilize 2 tbsp Basil Grapeseed Oil
what is left over from the harvest season. He subscribes to the Salt and Fresh Ground Pepper
philosophy that sustainability of the environment is our long-
term responsibility and appreciates the utilization of vineyard Directions:
waste. As such, the Castello has introduced a line of extra Prepare pie crust and shape into tart dish. Layer tart
virgin and infused grapeseed oils made from the seeds of wine with mozzarella. Fan out slices of tomato around tart,
grapes that are normally discarded after harvest.  overlapping for a second layer until tart is covered. Sprinkle
fresh chopped herbs, olives, salt, and pepper. Drizzle with
High-quality grape seeds are cold pressed, yielding a light and basil grapeseed oil. Bake until crust is golden, about 30
flavorful oil that is ultra-premium and nutrient dense. Excellent minutes.
for use as a cooking oil or as a finishing oil. Recommended Pairing: 2016 Pinot Bianco

The nutritional qualities of grape seed products are
unsurpassed. They are high in essential fatty acids and low
in saturated fat – half of the fat of olive oil. There is no
cholesterol in grapeseed oil. In fact, it has been shown to raise
HDL or “good cholesterol” while lowering LDL or the “bad
cholesterol”. It is also known that grapeseed oil is a great source
of vitamin E and a variety of antioxidants. 

R

Visit our Fattoria (Farm Store) at the Castello

or online at www.castellodiamorosa.com/Shop/La-Fattoria for more
information and to purchase our grapeseed and olive oil products

CastellodiAmorosa.com ~8~ Fall/Winter · 2017

Sustainability

R

Making the Castello Even
More “Green”

Recycling water saves up to 9,000 gallons per day

n our continuous quest for

increasing our sustainability,
we have invested a six-digit amount in a
top-of-the-line water treatment system.
Installed during summer 2017, we now proudly funnel all our
post-production water through the system, which cleanses the
water by 99.8% resulting in water perfectly suited for irrigation
and other water reuse applications, and assisting us in addressing
drought concerns.
The treatment system is located below ground, limiting the
visual impacts on our beautiful property. The treatment system
has the capabilities to meet the high flow from grape crushing
during harvest, yet still be flexible and simple to operate during
lower flow, non-harvest activities. The new system allows us to
reduce our water demand by up to 9,000 gallons per day.

On June 8, 2017 the new 9,000 gallon water treatment system was presented to Director of Winemaking,
Brooks Painter and the production crew by Maintenance Manager, Tim Dexter.

CastellodiAmorosa.com ~9~ Fall/Winter · 2017

Updates From Select C

Butala Estate Vineyard Great scores from Robert Parker 93
pts
utala Vineyard is our southernmost
Cabernet Sauvignon vineyard, located in We are extremely proud to share with you
the newest sub-AVA of Coombsville just east of the
city of Napa. Its proximity to the San Pablo Bay in the the fantastic 93 Point rating we have received from
southern end of Napa Valley means this vineyard has a relatively renowned wine critic Robert Parker for the 2014 Butala
cooler and longer growing season, particularly when compared to Estate Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon:
the vineyards surrounding the Castello in the Diamond Mountain
District along the opposite edge of the valley. The rocky red volcanic “The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Butala Vineyard, which
soils at Butala Vineyard, along with the steep slope of the vines is one of their estate sources, is from a 12-acre parcel in
along the mountainside, create excellent growing conditions for our Coombsville with rocky, red volcanic soils. This is 100%
12 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon, giving the fruit a rich density and Cabernet Sauvignon with a dense ruby/purple color,
intensity of flavor in the finished wines. rich, concentrated, earthy black and red fruits, graphite
and mineral notes, a full-bodied mouthfeel and loads of
The 2017 growing season has been progressing along beautifully at concentration, but still suave, civilized and silky tannins.
the Butala Estate Vineyard. With the region’s slightly longer growing The wine is big, exuberant and rich, but also approachable.
season, we are expecting to harvest the fruit around the end of Drink it over the next 15-20 years.”
September or beginning of October, which is typically several weeks
after fruit from our other Cabernet vineyards has come in to the This is the second consecutive vintage which has received
Crush Pad. Our winemaking team is monitoring the progress of the 93 points from Robert Parker, and we look forward
2017 vintage closely, and we are anticipating another excellent year to sharing this beautiful Castello estate wine with our
for Butala Estate Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. Butala Estate Vineyard Allocation members upon its
release in April of 2018!

The Butala Estate Vineyard Allocation Program 93

Our Butala Estate Allocation Club is an exclusive membership limited to pts
only 400 members, who receive 6 bottles of Butala Estate Vineyard Cabernet

Sauvignon annually at a discounted price of $98 per bottle (regular $145).
This allocation includes Amici del Barone Wine Club benefits from
date of purchase, to be renewed annually (see pg. 22 for details).

The 2014 vintage will be released in April 2018 exclusively to members
of our Allocation Program, and each allocation will be presented in an

elegant 6 bottle wooden box.

CastellodiAmorosa.com ~10~ Fall/Winter · 2017

Castello Estate Vineyards

Three Arrows Ranch Estate Vineyard 2015 Pinot Noir Allocation

ver the past several years, we have Our Pinot Noir Allocation program is a fantastic
worked hard to expand our Pinot opportunity to acquire 6 or 12 bottles of single vineyard Pinot
Noir program at the Castello, recently
acquiring two beautiful vineyards in two of the best Noir from three of our best vineyards. The 2015 Allocation
cool-climate growing regions in the North Coast AVA. The 2015 features wines from our estate vineyards in Anderson
vintage will be the inaugural release of our Michael’s Vineyard Valley and Michael’s Vineyard in Green Valley of Russian
Pinot Noir, which is featured in our exclusive Pinot Noir Allocation
Program. Situated along Pillow Road in the sub AVA Green Valley River Valley, as well as the family owned and operated Terra
of Russian River Valley, this Sonoma County vineyard is located de Promissio Vineyard (pg. 15) in the famed Petaluma Gap
only 15 miles from the Pacific, and features relatively narrow
temperature swings from day to night, with cooler daytime readings region of the Sonoma Coast AVA.
compared to the rest of Russian River Valley. This climate, coupled
with the famous Gold Ridge soils of the region, make for excellent While these limited production wines are typically available
growing conditions for Pinot Noir vines. at $75 per bottle, members of the Pinot Noir Allocation
program will receive 2 or 4 bottles each of these single
While the 2015 vintage will have the name Michael’s Vineyard vineyard Pinot Noir wines for $50 each.
on the label, be sure to keep an eye out for future vintages, which
will feature the vineyard’s new name: Three Arrows Ranch. Our To learn more about this exclusive program,
winemaking team chose the name to signify the three different
Pinot Noir clones planted on the property: 115, 777, and Pommard contact our Wine Club at 707-967-6274
4. Each of these clones lends a subtle nuance to the finished wine. or via email at [email protected]

The 2015 Michael’s Vineyard Pinot Noir shows fruit-forward
aromas of red cherries balanced by savory notes of mushroom and
baking spices. Beautifully structured with fine-grained tannins, it is
an excellent example of this cool-climate region of Sonoma County,
and would pair beautifully with duck confit, ahi poke with ginger, or
Mary Davidek’s Autumn Mushroom Medley (see pg. 21 for recipe).

The vineyard features three Pinot Noir clones:
115, 777, and Pommard 4.

CastellodiAmorosa.com ~11~ Fall/Winter · 2017

astello di Amorosa Celebratin
in Napa
turned 10 years old

on April 6, 2017.
To start the day, Founder/
Proprietor Dario Sattui
welcomed a crowd of 75 people, addressing
them in the winery’s courtyard, reviewing
how he came to build the winery, a labor
of love which took fifteen years.

For the first hour, guests mingled in the courtyard, watching the
original artisans actively demonstrating the techniques they used
to build the castle. The artisans flew in from as far away as Italy
and Austria for the festivities.

Guests then descended into the winery’s Grand Barrel Room,
to be seated for a ten-year retrospective tasting of Il Barone, our
flagship Cabernet Sauvignon. The tasting was moderated by
world-renowned author, journalist and wine educator Karen
MacNeil.

Director of Winemaking Brooks Painter and Winemaker
Peter Velleno contributed comments during the tasting of the
wines, vintages 2003 - 2012, explaining their philosophy behind
Il Barone and noting how vintage years and the vineyard sites
contributed to the flavor profiles of each wine.

“It was an enormous pleasure to lead the vertical tasting of a
decade of Il Barone,” said Karen MacNeil, wine expert and

The Artisans who built Caste

Paulo Ardito (right), construction manager, Fabio Sanzogni, artist, who created the Giorgio Marian
Dario Sattui (center) who showed plans and
drawings used in the construction, and Jon Lail, the frescoes in the winery’s Great Hall and created Umbria, Italy, who mad
a tenth anniversary commemorative painting accents he created for th
Napa Valley-based architect involved in the construction.
during the event. flame in fron

CastellodiAmorosa.com ~12~ Fall/Winter · 2017

ng 10 Years author of The Wine Bible.“Il Barone—the Castello di Amorosa’s
Valley flagship wine—is a dark, captivating example of Napa Valley
Cabernet Sauvignon. Seeing how the first ten vintages have
evolved was fascinating.”

Michelin-star chef Stefano Masanti traveled from his restaurant in
the Italian Alps to prepare the elaborate luncheon.

The anniversary celebration concluded with a book signing by Dario.
Now we all look forward to the next 10 years in Napa Valley.

~ Il Barone ~ Cabernet Sauvignon

2003-2012

R

Il Barone is the Castello’s
flagship wine, crafted
in the classic style of
the acclaimed Cabernet

Sauvignon wines of Napa
Valley. Each vintage is
crafted using a blend
of fruit from our top

vineyards, focusing on the
famed Rutherford AVA, and

each showing excellent
long-term aging potential.

ello di Amorosa 1993 - 2007

ni, a blacksmith from Carlos Perez, stonemason and current Fritz Gruber, Master Builder and medieval

de the kind of ironwork Castello manager, demonstrated the techniques building specialist from Austria, displayed the
he castle over an open used for shaping the stone that was used for brickwork techniques used in constructing the
nt of guests. building the castle.
castle’s vaulted ceilings.

CastellodiAmorosa.com ~13~ Fall/Winter · 2017

15% off 10% off

case discount case discount

for Wine Club for
Members non-members

Wines Sold Only at the Castello

2014 Spumante del Castello 3o39r/bbomotottrtlele:es 2015 Bien Nacido Vineyard Chardonnay ~ $39 double
*Tenth Anniversary Vintage* ~ $49 $ Double Gold Medal – American Fine Wine Competition gold

Varietal: 75% Chardonnay, 25% Pinot Noir Varietal: 100% Chardonnay from Bien Nacido Vineyard
located in the Santa Maria Valley in Santa Barbara County
Aging Process: Méthode Champenoise
Aging Process: 100% fermented in French oak barrels, 44%
Aroma: Subtle notes of pear and apple with a hint of toast. new. Aged “sur lie” for 9 months, with 57% undergoing
malolactic fermentation.
Palate: Fruity and soft with fine bubbles leaving a crisp finish.

Food Pairings: A fantastic celebratory wine, pairing Aroma: Rich aromas of ripe tropical fruits, salted caramel, and
beautifully with light cheeses, fresh berries, or toasting to toasted hazelnut.
special occasions with family and friends!
Palate: Full-bodied, rich and vibrant, with creamy notes of
2016 Pinot Grigio *New Release* ~ $23 crème brûlée and shortbread balanced by vibrant acidity and
hints of toasty oak on the finish.
Varietal: 100% Pinot Grigio from Anderson Valley
Aging Process: Stainless Steel Tank Food Pairings: Perfect with herb-roasted chicken, grilled
Aroma: Bright and zesty aromas of citrus peel and green summer vegetables, and cream-based sauces.

apple with overtones of honeydew melon and a hint of 2016 Gioia Rosato Sangiovese ~ $26
almond.
Palate: A light and refreshing wine with vibrant acidity, Varietal: 100% Sangiovese
bursting with bright grapefruit and Asian pear. Aging Process: Stainless Steel Tank
Food Pairings: Great with goat cheese crostini, seafood, and Aroma: Bright strawberry and watermelon.
fresh summer salads. Palate: An Italian-style dry rosé with a rosy garnet color,

2016 Pinot Bianco *New Release* ~ $27 bursting with summer strawberries, tart pomegranate, and a
vibrant yet creamy finish.
Varietal: 100% Pinot Bianco from Sonoma County Food Pairings: A versatile wine excellent to pair with
Aging Process: Stainless Steel Tank charcuterie, smoked salmon bruschetta, or Mary Davidek’s
Aroma: Enticing aromas of apricot and white flowers. watermelon salsa with tortilla chips.
Palate: Light to medium bodied with bright flavors of
2016 Dry Gewürztraminer *New Release* ~ $26
pineapple, apricot, and pear balanced by a round acidity
and clean finish. Varietal: 100% Gewürztraminer from Anderson Valley
Food Pairings: Perfect with seafood, Thai cuisine, stir fry, and Aging Process: Stainless Steel Tank
your favorite hors d’oeuvres. Aroma: Bright notes of pineapple, lychee, and hints of rose

2015 Napa Valley Chardonnay ~ $30 mgeodladl petals.
Gold Medal – SF Chronicle Wine Competition Palate: Crisp flavors of citrus and green apple balanced by

Varietal: Chardonnay from vineyards south of Napa light floral notes and a refreshing finish.
Food Pairings: This wine’s spicy finish makes it an excellent
S o l d O u tAging process: 100% fermented in French oak barrels, 50%
new. Aged “sur lie” for 10 months. match for Asian cuisine, spicy dishes, and cured, smoked
Aroma: A beautiful bouquet of ripe apple, pear, and melon, meats.

with hints of vanilla and buttery, toasty oak. 2016 "Dolcino" Gewürztraminer ~ $26
Palate: A supple and round mouthfeel with a creamy vanilla
Varietal: 100% Gewürztraminer from Anderson Valley
texture framed with toasty oak and well-balanced acidity. Aging Process: Stainless Steel Tank
Citrus and mineral overtones are balanced by woody notes Aroma: Intricate aromas of apricot, cinnamon, and rose petals.
of toasted nuts and vanilla in the finish. Palate: This slightly sweet white wine packs lush flavors of ripe

Food Pairings: Dungeness Crab, salmon, and Italian seafood peach and green apple balanced by a round mouthfeel and
dishes with rich sauces. refreshing acidity.
Food Pairings: A delicately sweet wine perfect to pair with
2016 Napa Valley Chardonnay ~ coming soon! lighter fare and spicy foods. Also great as a stand-alone
sipping wine.

Our wines are available only at Castello di Amorosa, online or via phone order: 707-967-6274

CastellodiAmorosa.com ~14~ Fall/Winter · 2017

15% off 10% off

case discount case discount

for Wine Club for
Members non-members

Wines Sold Only at the Castello

2015 II Rubino, Pinot Noir *New Release* ~ $42 2014 Merlot, Napa Valley *New Release* ~ $42
Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir from the North Coast AVA
Aging Process: 10 months in Burgundian French oak barrels Varietal: 92% Merlot, 4% Malbec, 4% Petit Verdot
Aroma: Black cherry, dried sage, and hints of vanilla. Aging Process: 22 months in French oak barrels
Palate: Juicy red and black berries mingle with earthy spice, with a Aroma: Earthy aromas mingle with hints of tarragon and spice.
Palate: An elegant yet approachable medium-bodied wine with
round mouthfeel and silky finish.
Food Pairings: Pairs beautifully with poached salmon, wild notes of dark fruits, supple leather, and a balanced acidity.
Food Pairings: Excellent with chicken satay, savory curries, and
mushroom risotto, or seared ahi tuna.
turkey burgers with gorgonzola cheese.
2015 Pinot Noir, Terra de Promissio
Vineyard *New Release* ~ $75 2012 II Brigante, Red Blend ~ $36
Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir from Sonoma Coast
Aging Process: 10 months in Burgundian French oak barrels Varietal: 35% Merlot, 29% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19%
Aroma: Silky aromas of boysenberry, forest floor, and subtle Sangiovese, 11% Zinfandel, 3% Pinot Noir, 3% Petit Verdot

notes of smoke and sweet spice from French oak aging. Aging Process: 22 month in French oak barrels
Palate: A beautifully layered Pinot Noir from the acclaimed Aroma: Aromas of ripe red fruits and cassis mingle with a

Petaluma Gap region of Sonoma County, soft flavors of red subtle, earthy spice.
plum and cherry cola mingle with hints of white pepper, with Palate: An approachable, medium-bodied blend with structured
silky tannin and a smooth finish.
Food Pairings: Excellent to pair with blackened salmon, goat tannins and bright acidity, notes of nutmeg, dark red fruit, and
cheese gnocchi, and roast fish or chicken. leather lead to a refined finish of dense red cherry and white pepper.
Food Pairings: Pairs with beef roast in a red wine sauce, and
2014 Zingaro, Old Vine Zinfandel roasted vegetable dishes.
*New Release*~ $39
Varietal: 81% Zinfandel, 11% Alicante Bouchet, 8% Primitivo 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 93
Aging Process: 18 months in French oak barrels (93 Points - James Suckling) ~ $55
Aroma: Rich red fruits mingle with sweet tobacco, hints of pts

toasted coconut and woody spice. Varietal: 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot,
Palate: An old vine Zinfandel from cool-climate Russian River 2% Malbec

Valley with an excellent balance between fruit, earth, and spice Aging Process: 20 months in French oak barrels
notes, with supple tannins and a lingering peppery finish.
Food Pairings: A great accompaniment to grilled meats and Aroma: Rich aromas of dark chocolate and cassis blend with a
most barbecue dishes. hint of earth and spice.

2013 Sangiovese, Napa Valley ~ $32 Palate: Full-bodied and dense with notes of black currant,
Varietal: 91% Sangiovese, 7% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Sauvignon walnut, and dark chocolate balanced by ripe, supple tannins.
Aging Process: 18 months in French oak barrels
Aroma: Complex aromas of rhubarb and cranberry, framed by Food Pairings: Excellent with red meats and grilled vegetables.

supple, toasty oak. 2012 La Castellana, Super Tuscan Blend 90
Palate: This medium-bodied wine displays rich red fruits and pts
(90 Points - Cellar Selection - Wine Enthusiast Magazine)
Bing cherry on the palate, balanced by a soft acidity and fine,
textured tannins. ~ $98
Food Pairings: A classic Italian varietal to pair with lasagna,
eggplant parmesan, and grilled meats. Varietal: 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Sangiovese, 9% Merlot

Aging Process: 20 months in French oak barrels

Aroma: Layered aromas of red cherries, cedar, and subtle floral notes.

Palate: A harmonious blend striking a balance between power
and elegance, with dark stone fruit and spices supported by
silky, polished tannins.

Food Pairings: Perfect with lamb, steak, or pappardelle with
wild boar (Dario’s favorite dish).

93
2012 Il Barone, Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon ~ $98 | 93 Points – Robert Parker pts

Varietal: 96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot | Aging Process: 20 months in French oak barrels | Aroma: Earthy yet vibrant, with
aromas of vanilla and cinnamon from aging in French oak barrels | Palate: Dark, powerful, and intense with blackberry and red fruit notes

mingling with cinnamon, cloves, and licorice. Sumptuous, with layers of complexity that will continue to evolve over the next 10-15 years.
Food Pairings: Pair with bold dishes such as roast game meats, or grilled Portobello mushrooms.

CastellodiAmorosa.com ~15~ Fall/Winter · 2017

Wines Sold Only at the Castello

2016 II Raggio del Sole *New Release* ~ $29 2016 La Fantasia ~ $30
Varietal: 100% Muscat Canelli Varietal: Proprietary blend
Aging Process: Stainless steel tank Aging Process: Stainless steel tank, effervescent from natural yeast
Aroma: Refreshing aromas of orange blossom, melon, and wildflower
fermentation
honey. Aroma: Bright aromas of wild berries, exotic flowers and orange peel.
Palate: A delicate sweet wine with soft notes of tropical fruits and Palate: An Italian style soft sparkling wine bursting with juicy black

melon with a lush mouthfeel and a vibrant “spritzy” finish. raspberry, plum, and strawberry flavors, with an ample sweetness
Food Pairings: Perfect with light cheeses or fresh fruit cobblers. leading to a refreshing finish.
Food Pairings: A perfect wine for special occasions, with fresh berries,
2016 Simpatica *New Release* ~ $29 or sorbetto.
Varietal: 71% Riesling, 29% Muscat Canelli
Aging Process: Stainless steel tank 2016 Late Harvest Gewürztraminer *New Release* ~ $42
Aroma: Alluring aromas of apricot, wildflower honey, and soft Varietal: 100% Gewürztraminer
Aging Process: Stainless steel tank
floral notes. Aroma: Complex notes of honey and candied apricot with hints of
Palate: Lush flavors of ripe white peach and apricot mingle with a
rose petal.
delicate sweetness and supple acidity. Palate: Rich flavors of honeysuckle and stone fruit are balanced by a
Food Pairings: Enjoy with warm pastries or fresh fruits and cheese.
refreshing acidity and lingering sweetness in the finish.
Food Pairings: Ideal with chocolate torte, crème brûlée, or baked fruit

with artisanal cheeses.

2012 II Passito Reserve Late Harvest Semillon double
~ $89 Double Gold Medal – SF Chronicle Wine Competition gold

Varietal: 68% Semillon, 32% Sauvignon Blanc
Aging Process: Barrel-fermented and aged for 19 months in French

oak barrels
Aroma: Luscious aromas of apricot nectar and succulent spice with

hints of toasty vanilla from aging in French oak barrels.
Palate: An elegant Sauternes-style dessert wine made from naturally

botrytized late harvest fruit, which intensifies the sweetness of the
wine, giving it a rich intensity and lingering finish.
Food Pairings: An excellent after-dinner sipping wine perfect with
blue cheese, dried figs, or foie gras.

~ Wine Club Members Only ~

Find great pairing tips & recipes at: Save 15% off cases
www.castellodiamorosa.com/Visit-Us/
12 bottles or more (mix-n-match)
Wine-and-Food-Pairing
Use code “Newsletter”at Checkout (expires 12/31/2017)
This offer cannot be combined with other offers.

Our wines are available only at Castello di Amorosa, online or via phone order: 707-967-6274

CastellodiAmorosa.com ~16~ Fall/Winter · 2017

Wines Sold Only at the Castello

~ Pre-Release sets from the acclaimed 2014 vintage ~

2014 Sinalunga Set 2014 Crown Jewel Collection
Sinalunga is a limited-production Cabernet Sauvignon crafted from A collection of our top award-winning wines from the highly
our top vineyards in the Rutherford AVA of Napa Valley. Named acclaimed 2014 vintage, including our limited production single
for the small Tuscan commune near Siena which inspired Dario vineyard Cabernet Sauvignons. This six bottle set is displayed
Sattui to construct the Castello, Sinalunga is a wine epitomizing the proudly in a beautiful wooden collector’s box, and is an excellent
love, passion, quality, attention to detail, and dedication that went addition to the cellar of any true connoisseur of Napa Valley
into the making of Castello di Amorosa. This exceptional, limited- Cabernet Sauvignon.
production wine is symbolic of the castle itself,
a crowning achievement. & 2014 Morisoli-Borges Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon
96 points, Robert Parker
“Exceptionally rich, concentrated and dense
with blackberry, cassis, new saddle leather, & 2 014 Melanson Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon
graphite and spice, this is a terrific wine 95+ points, Robert Parker
that seems to be built for drinking now or
cellaring for another 20-25 years. It is a & 2 014 Don Thomas Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon
superb example of 2014.” 93 points, Robert Parker
95 Points – Robert Parker
& 2 014 La Castellana Super Tuscan Blend
The Wine Advocate 92 points, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

3 btl set in wooden box - $950/set & 2 014 Il Barone Cabernet Sauvignon
94 points, Robert Parker
R
& 2 014 Sinalunga
Rent Dario’s Monastery in Sinalunga, Tuscany! 95 points, Robert Parker
For more info: [email protected]
6 btl set in wooden box – r egular price: $1850
with 10% discount: $1655

Praise for the 2014 vintage from Director of Winemaking Brooks Painter:

“The 2014 Napa Valley wine grape harvest was a year of exceptional quality. The winter was one of the driest on record in Napa
Valley, with approximately half of the normal rainfall. However, rains in late February and early March provided water to the

vines just as they were beginning bud break. The spring was warm and berry sizes were smaller and with more concentrated
flavors, and the overall quality, depth of flavor and excellent balance and maturity in the grapes bodes well for the vintage.”

Our wines are available only at Castello di Amorosa, online or via phone order: 707-967-6274

CastellodiAmorosa.com ~17~ Fall/Winter · 2017

hat better way to gift This Holi

friends, family, or that Give the GiRft

special someone than Castello Glassware ~ $10 each

with an award-winning Our Castello Glassware features our logo etched in gold and an elegant
Napa Valley wine from the Castello? shape for swirling all your memorable cheers.
We offer gifts for every connoisseur,
and for every occasion, be it holiday Black and Gold Deluxe Gift Boxes
celebrations, birthday or simply for your
favorite happy couple. See our wide These exclusive boxes convey a feeling of luxurious giving, perfectly
selection of customizable boxed gift sets, suited for the Holidays. Completely customizable in terms of the wines
sure to please any palate! you wish to gift. Comes in 1 or 3 bottles size. Wine ships in the box.
Wines not included with box prices below.
Castello di Amorosa: A Labor of Love
Box for 3 bottles $18
The epic story behind the building of the Box for 1 bottle $12 (fits red wines only)
Castello by Dario Sattui.
Regular price: $39.95
Wine Club Member price: $34.95

Wine & Glassware Combo Box

Pricing depends on the actual wine
selected. The complete and convenient
gift set for one bottle of wine and
two Castello glasses; ready to enjoy.
Wines not included with price below.

Box for 1 bottle
+ 2 glasses - $32

Castello Makes Corporate Gifting Easy!

Do you have a large order or important client list to shop for this year?
Our team is happy to put together gifts that match your needs.

For your large order or special gifting needs, please contact Sheena at 707-967-6274.

CastellodiAmorosa.com ~18~ Fall/Winter · 2017

day Season Three Bottle Wooden Gift Box ~ $20

Roƒ the Castello Make an impressive
presentation of Castello
wines with our etched
wooden gift boxes. Holds
three bottles of your favorite
Castello wines. Wine shown
not included. Box ships
separately.

The Perfect Gift Set Grapeseed Oil & Balsamic Gift Box ~ $49

& 1 Pinot Grigio, Anderson Valley Regular price: $138 An elegant gift for your
& 1 Sangiovese, Napa Valley favorite foodie. Includes
& 1 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley Anniversary price: $119 1 bottle each of our 500ml
& 1 wooden gift box Reserve Extra Virgin
Grapeseed Oil and Balsamic
Espresso Set ~ $38 Vinegar in a classic wooden
logo gift box. Box ships
Perfect for your holiday gatherings separately.
and a great gift from the Castello. A
beautiful set of 6 demitasse espresso Animal Head Wine Pourer-Aerator ~ $29
cups and matching saucers.
Impress your friends with an animal head wine pourer and aerator.

To peruse the Castello Gift Shop go to: www.castellodiamorosa.com/Shop/Holiday-Gift-Sets

Minimum $50 purchase for gift box sets (wine plus gift box)

new

staff ~ Meet Michala Jeberg, PR & Marketing Manager ~

Joining the Castello team in April 2017, Michala brings more than 15 years of experience building
iconic, international beverage and food brands. She looks forward to telling the story about
the great Italian-style wines made on the premises.

CastellodiAmorosa.com ~19~ Fall/Winter · 2017

Wine Education Events

astello di Amorosa is renowned for hosting To book or inquire
some of Napa Valley’s most impressive events. about events:
Host your next wine education event here!
Our wonderful Hospitality staff will customize and serve your wine 707-967-7084
education event to be uniquely your own. They are artful masters in setting the stage, or hospitality@
providing creative ideas, and arranging every last detail. Our wine education events castellodiamorosa.com
also include a tour of our picturesque property, a wine presentation, and a wine
tasting. Unique venues at the Castello include outdoor terraces, wine caves, hidden
rooms, an opulent dinner hall and an expansive courtyard.

Great Hall - accommodates up to 180 guests Courtyard – accommodates up to 300 guests

new

staff ~ Meet Antoinette Freeman, Director of Hospitality ~

With more than 19 years in hospitality, and 8 years in events planning
at award-winning fine dining establishments and luxury hotels,
Antoinette heads up our hospitality department.

CastellodiAmorosa.com ~20~ Fall/Winter · 2017

Touring & Tasting at the Castello

ommelier Mary Davidek invites guests

to join her on a culinary experience of

Castello di Amorosa's wines paired with small bites of
her own creation on her acclaimed Royal Food and
Wine Pairing Tour.

“When I came on board at the Castello in the Spring of 2008 I
was inspired to create an elevated tasting experience worthy of
this magnificent architecture---it had to be just as unique and
compelling. In January 2009 the Castello food and wine program
launched "The Royal Pairing" and has since garnered praise as one
of "wine country's best" (Fodor’s). As grand as the castle is, wine is
the pillar in which the Castello is built. The bounty of California's
wine country combined with our wine making team's commitment
to excellence....it is a joy to showcase these extraordinary and
distinct wines in such an extraordinary and distinct venue.”

— Mary Davidek, Sommelier

The Royal Food and Wine Pairing tour
is offered by appointment only, at $85 per person/ $68 per
active Wine Club member (additional discounts apply to higher
club levels). For reservations or more information contact
Mary at [email protected].

“The two-hour food-and-wine pairing by sommelier
Mary Davidek is among Wine Country’s best.”

— Fodor’s - Northern California

recipe: Autumn Mushroom Medley (as seen in the Royal Food and Wine Pairing Tour)

Ingredients: Directions: Sauté diced
10 oz Shitake mushrooms sausage in a large sauté pan;
1oz Portobello mushrooms drain fat and set aside. Finely
20 oz Crimini mushrooms chop shallot, garlic, and fennel
16 oz Italian chicken sausage and sauté with white wine and
1/2 cup butter 1/4 cup butter. Add to cooked
1 shallot sausage and set aside. Finely
3-4 cloves garlic chop mushrooms and sauté with
1/2 bulb fresh fennel remaining 1/4 cup butter and
4 oz dry white wine 4-6 oz of stock until desired
4-6 oz vegetable or texture (about 12 minutes),
adjusting liquid as needed. Add
chicken stock vegetable and sausage mixture
1/4 cup grated fontina and let cool slightly before
1/4 cup grated parmesan folding in grated parmesan and
fontina. Serve with crostini and
a glass of Pinot Noir.

CastellodiAmorosa.com ~21~ Fall/Winter · 2017

Amici Del Barone
R

Friends of the Baron ~Wine Club Benefits

Join our Castello famiglia and experience the most unique Wine Club in the Napa Valley.

s an “Amici del Barone", we ~ Amici del Barone Benefits ~
invite you to share our hand-
crafted Italian style wines & Complimentary General Admission for Wine Club member and one guest,
and 50% off for two additional guests
with your friends and family to toast a
special occasion or just enjoy for sipping after a fine day & 50% off premium & reserve Guided Tours and Tastings for Wine Club
of jousting! We have a variety of shipping and annual member and three guests anytime (4 people total).
purchase wine clubs from which you may choose; each
one a different offering to suit your taste. & 2 0% Discount on Food & Wine Pairings and other specialty tours for
Member and Guest

& 20% Discount on Reorders of Current Wine Club Shipments (available to
shipping clubs only)

& Invitations to Wine Club Parties and Special Events (discounted admission
for Member and one guest)

& A ccess to “Members & Guests Only” Il Passito Club Room (hours vary,
please call 707-967-6272 for availability) pictured above

& S pecial Discounts on Castello Wines at Wine Club Events
& Receive Newsletters and Winemaker’s Tasting Notes
& Receive Advance Access to New Releases
& Receive Special Online Member Discounts

*additional benefits available for higher level purchase clubs

Find out more information at www.castellodiamorosa.com/Wine-Club

new

staff ~ Meet Sheena Rossini, Wine Club Manager ~

Sheena has been a part of the Castello di Amorosa team for over 9 years, serving as
Wine Club Coordinator for the past four and half, and loves being able to call this beautiful
place her home away from home. Now, as our new Wine Club Manager, she looks forward to

welcoming many more Castello members to our ever growing family.

CastellodiAmorosa.com ~22~ Fall/Winter · 2017

Castello di Amorosa

R

Giving Back to the Community

ecently someone asked me why we Dario with the Boys & Girls Club in 2014. The organization’s
never talk about our community new building in Calistoga is set to open September of this year.

involvement. I replied that when I give, I The largest donation we have made is very recent. I donated
do it because I wish to help a cause that I believe $1,300,000 to build a new Boys & Girls Club building in
passionately about; I don’t do it for the publicity. Calistoga which does not have the resources of many other
Napa Valley towns. In fact I initiated the idea and made the
Throughout the years Castello di Amorosa has given back to major funding for the new building which will serve hundreds
local causes. For more than 20 years we and V. Sattui Winery of kids each day.
have signed contracts with the Napa Land Trust to ensure
that our vineyard lands will never be built upon. To date we We at Castello di Amorosa and V. Sattui Winery are proud
have done so for more than 500 acres and we will eventually of our community involvement and the fact that we are in a
put more than another 500 acres in the land trust, as I wish to position to help.
preserve the rural and agricultural character of Napa County.

We and V. Sattui Winery have always made major donations
to school causes, towards the welfare of older residents,
towards a new football field for a local high school, towards
scholarships for students, to the local state park, to improve
the Calistoga park, to environmental causes, and especially
wildlife organizations, often to hospice, to Festival Napa
Valley, a music and arts organization, a donation to retain the
local movie theater, for bands to entertain the residents in
summer, for the rebuilding of the Calistoga community pool
and numerous other worthwhile causes.

This fall we will donate a new $75,000 food truck which will
bring meals to the elderly, to the disabled and those who have
a tough time getting to a local supermarket. Hundreds of
meals are donated each day to greater Napa County residents.

Holiday Wreaths for Charity at the Castello

Celebrate the holiday spirit with the Castello at our annual Holiday Wreaths for Charity event
on Saturday, December 2! Guests can enjoy the decorated castle, where local charities

and organizations have adorned the walls of the Courtyard with festive wreaths of their own
creation. A portion of proceeds from the day will go towards each of these charities,
along with any contributions guests would like to include.

CastellodiAmorosa.com ~23~ Fall/Winter · 2017

s an artisanal winery, the production of
our wines is quite limited and we do not distribute
our wine anywhere in the country. We encourage
you to order your wines before they are gone.

To place an order, call us at 707-967-6274

Order 7 days a week, 9:30 to 6:00 p.m.
or order online at www.castellodiamorosa.com

Minimum shipment is 6 bottles.
Full cases of 12 bottles, mixed any way you like,

are eligible for a 10% discount.

~ Save by shipping to a commercial address. ~

*Prices subject to change

4045 Saint Helena Highway, Calistoga, California 94515

Keep in Touch: @TheCastello Castello Check In:
di Amorosa Castello di Amorosa