Two Angels and Vino dei Fratelli

A few weeks ago, I was invited by Steve Kreps, Jr. to a dinner to promote the family-owned Two Angels Wines, as well as wines imported by Quintessential Wines, which the Kreps family own also. Steve and brother Dennis are the "two angels" according to their mother Julie. At dinner, we tasted the following wines as described by Mr. Kreps:

Casalnova Prosecco - this wine comes from Prosecco grapes grown in the Veneto region of Italy, which is located north of Venice. The color is straw yellow with green reflections, lively sparkle, fine and long-lasting perlage. The bouquet is subtle and refined, with hints of honeysuckle and acacia flowers. Ideal as an aperitif or with light dishes such as soups, white meat and fish. Retails for $18.00

2006 Vino dei Fratelli Pinot Grigio - this pale-yellow wine from the Veneto region of Italy has a bright and slightly flowery fragrance. Firm acidity gives this Pinot Grigio a mouth-watering appeal, with good mid-palate balance, and a clean crisp finish that is typical of the varietal. Serve with antipastos, prosciutto, fish and white meats. Retails for $11.00

2007 Two Angels Sauvignon Blanc - This fruit forward wine comes from grapes grown in the highly-respected Shannon Ridge Estate Terre Vermeille vineyard located above CA's third largest lake, Clear Lake. It has pleasing intensity in the nose with herbal hints of dried thyme and sage that integrate nicely with lemon peel and gooseberry notes. The flavors mimic the aromas with added nuances of kiwi, crenshaw melon and basil. A great accompaniment to fish and shellfish. Retails for $16.00

2006 Vino dei Fratelli Chianti DOCG - This Tuscan Chianti is ruby red in color with a sweetly perfumed nose that leads to an intense, yet perfectly balance palate showing lovely black fruit depth. The flavor is smooth, with good acidity. The tannins are supple and well-integrated and the finish is long and harmonious. Perfect for Tuscan cuisine, from sausage products to grilled meats and ripe cheeses. Retails for $13.00.

2006 Two Angels Divinity - 2006 was the first vintage for this Rhone style blend of Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre and Petite Sirah. The nose is full of aromas that are complex and enjoyably intense. Hints of anise, blueberries and ripe plum peek out from this rich mosaic of smells. On the palate, this wine has a rich, full body and firm structure, but is balanced enough to fairly glide from entry to finish. Added flavors of raspberry, blackberry, cherry, Canadian bacon, sweet vanilla and integrated fruit and oak components add to the tasting enjoyment. Has an incredible finish. Great for duck, turkey or game, and semi-soft or hard cheeses. Retails for $25.00. Very nice wine!!

2007 Two Angels Mayacamas Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon - the second vintage of the Mayacamas Moutain Cabernet is nicely complex, with dark fruit, cherries and hints of chocolate and vanilla on the nose. It is well-structured with medium-plus body, good weight and balance on the palate. There is elegance to this wine, as it glides across the palate and leads to a pleasing finish. Serve with steaks and other grilled meats, roasts and hearty fare. Retails for $28.00.

2006 Two Angles Petite Sirah - This Sirah is "dark as night" and boasts savory aromas of dark berry, violet, pomegranate, tamarind and roasted game. Abundant fruit flavors are nicely integrated with toasted oak and roasted coffee undertones. Serve with robust dishes, including beef, venison, turkey, game birds and semi-hard or hard cheeses. Retails for $20.00. Wine Enthusiast rated this 90 points.

2007 Vino dei Fratelli Moscato d'Asti DOCG- This straw yellow wine comes from white grapes grown at Valdiville Santo Stefano Belboe, in the heart of the Piedmont's Asti rgion. It has intense aromas of flowers, honey and a hint of tropical fruit. It is a big Moscato, with fine structure and strong flavors - sweet and very fragrant, delicate and harmonious on the palate. Delightful as an aperitif or desert wine. Retails for $16.00.

The Two Angels and Vino dei Fratelli wines are a must try. If you cannot find them, contact Quintessential Wines (www.quintessentialwines.com). They also import for numerous other wineries that should not be missed either. Make Two Angels your first stop when visiting Napa.