Alsatian Wines & Veal Milanese

During “The New York Fancy Food Show” last July, Ugo and I came across a great number of food ideas and products. This was not unexpected and we did our best to bring them back to you. What we didn’t expect, was to find was a line up of world class wines. One vinery in particular, from Alsace, France, impressed us for both its quality and value.

Domaine Bott Freres is a small, family-owned estate established in 1836, located in Ribeauville, the heart of The Alsace appellation. The names and the grapes of this region may be German, but the wines are distinctly French: off dry, aromatic, elegant, age-worthy, and most importantly, very versatile with food. The line up of wines from this house are amazing . entry level to Grand Crus Rieslings as well as Pinot Gris & Noir, Sylvaner and Gewürztraminer. This week.s feature is a 2005 Riesling. Produced by traditional methods, it is a vibrant, young wine that reveals noticeable floral and

mineral notes, while the palate exudes peach and ripe pear flavors. Slightly viscous, its purity and elegance are apparent. The finish is clean and satisfying. Cuvee ‘Selection’

One of the great things about Europe is that many countries can share the same geographic region but have their own twist on the same recipe. Veal Milanese, for instance, which is tender milk fed veal, battered lightly in Italian style bread crumbs and then sautéed to perfection in butter. Topped with lemon, it is virtually the same in Austria, Germany or even yes, Alsace, France. This dish is simple, tasty and can be served with a rich porcini mushroom risotto.

Pair with an Alsatian Riesling or a not so traditional 2003 Italian Pinot Noir/Nero from Vinicola Castelfeder, a small, high-quality winery located in the southern Tyrolean Alps of northeast Italy. Aromas of dried cherries, mountain flowers, and mild spice lead on to a brisk palate, which has just the right amount of tannin and structure to support foods with unique and distinctive flavors such as our Veal Milanese.