The Feast of the Seven Fishes, a tradition deeply rooted in Italian-American heritage, is an extravagant seafood banquet celebrated on Christmas Eve. This age-old custom brings families together to enjoy seven (or more) fish courses paired beautifully with select wines. Let&#39;s delve into this delightful culinary journey and explore some exquisite wine pairings for each course.

1. Antipasto Platter &ndash; Vermentino

We start our feast with an antipasto platter featuring marinated anchovies, octopus salad, and calamari rings. The ideal pairing here would be a bottle of Vermentino from Sardinia&#39;s renowned producer <a href="https://www.saratogawine.com/Pedres-Vermentino-Di-Gallura-Docg-Thilibas-2022-750ml.html?utm_source=winesearcher&amp;utm_medium=paidprodlisting&amp;utm_content=928250&amp;utm_campaign=prodfeeds&amp;v=20L">Cantina di Gallur</a>a. Known for its vibrant acidity and mineral-driven flavors of lime zest and green apple, it perfectly complements the briny taste of seafood appetizers.

2. Linguine alle Vongole - Soave Classico

Next up is linguine alle vongole; pasta tossed in white clam sauce garnished with parsley. To accompany this dish we suggest <a href="https://www.plummarket.com/store/2022-pieropan-soave-classico-veneto-022-0.html">Pieropan&rsquo;s Soave Classico</a> made from Garganega grapes grown in volcanic soils around Veneto region offering floral aromas coupled with notes of almond that blend harmoniously with clams&#39; delicate flavor profile.

3. Shrimp Scampi - Chardonnay

For the third course comes shrimp scampi saut&eacute;ed in garlic butter sauce served over spaghetti or risotto where a Californian Chardonnay like <a href="https://www.sokolin.com/2019-ramey-chardonnay-russian-river-valley?utm_source=Wine+Searcher+Feed&amp;utm_medium=Product+Feed&amp;utm_campaign=Products&amp;sku=100991-750-AI">Ramey Russian River Valley</a> Chardonnay works wonders due to its full-bodied character combined with crisp citrus flavors which cut through rich buttery sauces while enhancing shrimp&#39;s sweetness.

4. Fried Calamari - Prosecco Superiore DOCG

Fried calamari needs something light yet flavorful such as <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Desiderio-Bisol-and-Figli-Brut-Prosecco-di-Valdobbiadene-Crede-2021-w0013904x7">Bisol&rsquo;s Prosecco Superiore DOCG</a>. This sparkling wine from Veneto region is made using Glera grapes and offers a delightful balance of fruitiness, acidity, and effervescence that complements the crispness of fried calamari without overpowering it.

5. Baccal&agrave; - Verdicchio

Baccal&agrave; or salted cod stewed with tomatoes and olives calls for something like <a href="https://www.mwwinepark.com/products/13708294/umani-ronchi-casal-di-serra-verdicchio-2021">Umani Ronchi&rsquo;s Casal di Serra Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico Superiore</a>. Made in Marche region from Verdicchio grape variety, this white wine has subtle notes of citrus fruits along with a hint of almond which pairs well with the robust flavors of baccala.

6. Grilled Swordfish - Etna Rosso

Grilled swordfish served alongside caponata requires a medium-bodied red such as <a href="https://www.stirlingfinewine.com/products/14037159/benanti-etna-rosso-2019">Benanti&#39;s Etna Rosso</a> made primarily from Nerello Mascalese grapes grown on volcanic soils around Mount Etna in Sicily. Its bright acidity combined with delicate tannins and earthy undertones make it an excellent match for grilled fish dishes.

7. Tiramisu &ndash; Vin Santo

No Italian feast would be complete without dessert; Tiramisu paired beautifully with <a href="https://www.saratogawine.com/Avignonesi-Vin-Santo-Di-Montepulciano-2010-375ml.html?utm_source=winesearcher&amp;utm_medium=paidprodlisting&amp;utm_content=924363&amp;utm_campaign=prodfeeds&amp;v=20L">Avignonesi&rsquo;s Vin Santo di Montepulciano</a> crafted predominantly from Trebbiano Toscano (or Procanico) grapes dried over straw mats before being aged in traditional oak barrels called caratelli. This sweet Tuscan wine exhibits rich honeyed flavors complementing tiramisu&#39;s creamy texture while balancing its sweetness perfectly.

The Feast of Seven Fishes not only celebrates the joyous holiday season but also showcases Italy&#39;s rich seafood cuisine enhanced by their diverse range of wines spanning across various regions each possessing unique terroir characteristics reflected within every bottle produced there.

Remember, these are just suggestions; feel free to experiment according to your personal preference because at the end what matters most is the joy of sharing good food and wine with loved ones during this festive season.

The Feast of the Seven Fishes, a tradition deeply rooted in Italian-American heritage, is an extravagant seafood banquet celebrated on Christmas Eve. This age-old custom brings families together to enjoy seven (or more) fish courses paired beautifully with select wines. Let's delve into this delightful culinary journey and explore some exquisite wine pairings for each course.

The Feast of the Seven Fishes: A Delectable Holiday Tradition Paired with Exquisite Wines

Bordeaux is a name synonymous with some of the world's most prestigious red wines, but its white wines, particularly Bordeaux Blanc, often fly under the radar. While the reds of this region have garnered international fame, Bordeaux Blanc wines, crafted primarily from Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and Muscadelle grapes, are some of the wine world's best-kept secrets. These wines offer an elegant balance of freshness, complexity, and aging potential that can rival the finest whites from anywhere in the world.

Bordeaux Blanc: An Underappreciated Gem of the Wine World

As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, our palates yearn for refreshing beverages that embody the essence of summer. For those new to the world of wine, choosing between cider, orange wine, and rosé can be a delightful journey. Each offers unique flavors and experiences perfect for warm weather sipping. In this article, we’ll explore three standout choices: Wolffer Dry Cider No. 139, Cune Viña Rosado 2023, and Spiritus Terrae Malvasia Orange 2021.

Savoring Summer: The Best Rosé Drink Choices from Cider-Orange-Rosé for Beginners

Navigating the wine list at a restaurant can be a daunting task, as many wine lovers have experienced. In our previous article on the tension of ordering wine at restaurants, we discussed this issue and shared some tips to help ease the process. However, one CorkRules user has recently encountered a situation that highlights just how challenging it can be.

The Switch? – #restaurantfail #winelistfail

Memorial Day weekend signals the official kick-off to summer, and what better way to celebrate than a backyard barbecue with friends and family? But for the wine lovers out there, the usual pairing of burgers and beer can feel a little, well, uninspired.

Fear not, fellow geeks! Let's ditch the predictable and dive into three exciting wine options that will have you sipping and savoring alongside the sizzling BBQ.

Memorial Day BBQ Bash: 3 Wines to Geek Out Over (While Grilling)

What is the right price for a bottle of wine at a restaurant? Wine pricing at restaurants is a hot topic of late but has many complexities. Let's dig into it and better understand the issues and some potential solutions.

The tension around wine pricing at restaurants?

Châteauneuf-du-Pape, a name that resonates with prestige and quality in the world of wine. This illustrious appellation is steeped in history dating back centuries and has been producing some of France's most celebrated wines for generations.



Nestled within the southern region of Rhône Valley, France lies Châteauneuf-du-Pape - translated as "the Pope's new castle". The area earned its moniker during the 14th century when it served as a summer residence for Popes who sought refuge from political turmoil in Rome.

The Rich History of Châteauneuf-du-Pape highlighting some great value wines

In the world of wine and food, we often find ourselves ensnared by ratings, stars, points – an endless parade of numbers that dictate our choices. We chase after high-rated wines or Michelin-starred restaurants with fervor only to be met with experiences that seldom live up to their lofty reputations. But amidst this whirlwind pursuit for perfection lies a simple truth - what truly makes wine and food special are not scores or accolades but pure experiences crafted from love.

The Serendipity of Experiences in Wine and Food

The world of sparkling wine is a vast one. While champagne has long been the reigning king, there's another contender that’s not only equally delicious but also offers great value for money - Cremant.

Cremant vs Champagne: The real deal for bubbles.

Omakase is experiencing a surge in popularity, let’s dig into what it is and of course what wines to drink.



 Omakase, a term that translates to "I'll leave it up to you" in Japanese, is rapidly gaining popularity in the culinary world. This dining experience places your meal entirely in the hands of the chef, who meticulously crafts each course based on seasonal ingredients and their personal creative flair. It's not just about seafood; while sushi often features prominently due to its status as a cornerstone of Japanese cuisine, an omakase menu can include anything from Wagyu beef to seasonal vegetables.

Omakase and Wine Pairing: A Booming Gastronomic Journey

Eleven Madison Park

Michaela Quinlan

Eleven Madison

Eleven Madison Park

RT: Hello and Welcome to CorkRules!&nbsp;

A podcast where, in each episode, we will review a wine list from your favorite restaurants. I&rsquo;m your host Robert Tas along with Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier.

Hello Michaela,&nbsp;it&rsquo;s great to be back together for another episode.

MQ: Hi Robert!

RT: Before we jump in, let&rsquo;s talk about CorkRules.

We created CorkRules to demystify wine list&rsquo;s because we know from experience, that sometimes when we get that list handed to us, well&hellip; it can be intimidating, and even a little daunting.

Our aim is to help prepare you to navigate that list, find those hidden gems, or value wines or that special bottle that will take your dining experience over the top.

RT:&nbsp;So, sit back and listen as we review your favorite wine list.

RT: Today we are talking about Eleven Madison. Eleven Madison offers many ways to enjoy their fine dining experience as you overlook Madison Square Park. Come enjoy their multi-course, plant-based tasting menu, snacks, or even just enjoy a glass from their extensive wine list. Michaela, I can&rsquo;t wait to hear what do you think of their wine list?

MQ: I think this wine list redefines extensive! There are so many classics, and unique varietals, that I could take notes for days. I have highlighted a few and hope you enjoy them.

RT: That&rsquo;s really great, as you looked the list did you see anything jump out at you?

MQ: The first, of many, that jumped off the page was the Royal Tokaji Dry Furmint 2017 from Hungary. One of the many wonderful things about the Furmint grape is, like Riesling, it is incredibly versatile in its ability to produce beautiful wines from dry to sweet. This is a dry Furmint which offers aromas of white flowers, green apple, and citrus. This medium-bodied white wine is grown in volcanic soils, so we can come to expect bright acidity and a mineral finish. This would complement herbal dishes.

RT: That is for sure unique. So, Michaela, their list seems to have lots of range but was there anything that you would say is a &ldquo;must-try&rdquo;?

MQ: Of course! A must try would be the Marcel Zanolari l&rsquo;Essenziale Rosso d&rsquo; Valtellina 2017 from Lombardi in Northern Italy. This dry red wine is made from the Nebbiolo grape featuring bright acidity, ripe, red cherries, a hint of earthiness, and beautifully smooth tannins on the finish. This is another food-friendly wine, especially roasted vegetables.

RT: These are some great calls. So, you know I&rsquo;m getting thirsty and will need to order a bottle with my dinner, where would you guide us?

MQ: A unique crowd-pleaser for the table would be the Pittnauer St. Laurent 2011 from Burgenland, Austria. St. Laurent is a red grape that has been compared to Pinot Noir with an edge. I find St. Laurent to maintain the cranberry, cherry notes similar to Pinot Noir, but take that up a notch with a bit more spice, and herbal, earthy finish. This is perfect for your savory mushroom dishes.

RT: Ooh, Terrific. Michaela, speaking of price, sometimes people have a budget in mind.&nbsp; any other great value wines you&rsquo;d point us to?&nbsp;

MQ: Of course! Another unique selection for an excellent value is the Antoine Marie Arena San Giovani Patrimonio 2018. The grape in this dry, citrusy white wine is Vermentino. This wine is produced in the Patrimonio region of the Mediterranean Island of Corsica. This Vermentino is organic and certainly showcases the Mediterranean climate with its bright acidity, minerality, and classic nutty/almond finish.

RT: For me personally&hellip;

MQ: Absolutely!

RT: Now Michaela, what if I have a big client dinner or special occasion where I want to take it up a notch?

&nbsp;MQ: I have been enjoying a number of spectacular Chablis recently. One to consider to add to your special, or any occasion, would be the Louis Michel Chablis Grenouille Grand Cru 2018. Grenouille wines are rare and notable, as they come from one of the smallest Grand Crus in the region of Chablis in Burgundy. This highly rated Chardonnay is fermented in stainless steel and does not see any oak aging. This results in aromas and flavors of green apple, pear, white flowers, and a mineral finish. The mineral finish is also due to the Kimmeridgian, or limestone, soil found in this region of Chablis. This would be a wonderful pairing for the number of herbal dishes, and to your celebration.

RT: Michaela Thank you so much for all your great suggestions and helping us navigate Eleven Madison&rsquo;s wine list. I can&rsquo;t wait to go try them myself.&nbsp;To our audience, thank you all for joining us here on CorkRules.

If you would like us to review one of your favorite restaurants, please send us email to: <a href="mailto:Info@corkrules.com">Info@corkrules.com</a> or visit our web website where we have a request form available and we will do our best to get it in the queue as quickly as possible.

We are looking forward to being with you on another CorkRules episode soon. In the meantime, please check out our website for other episodes of your favorite restaurant wine lists.&nbsp;

And finally, drink what you love and please make sure you drink responsibly.

&nbsp;

Thank you.

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Bordeaux Blanc: An Underappreciated Gem of the Wine World

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Expert Insights

Bordeaux Blanc: An Underappreciated Gem of the Wine World