WA Barbera v. Lombardia

The Giro d'Italia kicks off on May 9th in Belfast.  Wait. What?!  Belfast?  You might be saying "I don't remember an Italian town named Belfast!"  You would be correct.  This year's race starts off with three stages in Ireland before the racers transfer to Southern Italy.

Like many of the pros, I was hanging out last week putting the finishing touches on my form for the big race.  I chose to hang out in Northern Italy.  In Lombardia to be exact, a wine region just across the border from the Tour du Romandie, a major Tour de France tune up race held in Switzerland.  Did you know that Switzerland only exports 2% of their wines?  Its true.  One more reason I was hanging out in Lombardia...

This week's challenge features a Barbera from the Oltrepo Pavese DOC taking on a Washington State Barbera from the Yakima Valley.

2011 Cantina di Casteggio Bronis Barbera v. 2008 Cavatappi Barbera

Seattle v. Chelan in a BDX Style Brawl

Last year I started featuring Washington v. Washington wine brawls once a month.  I chose Cabernet Sauvignon as my focus for 2012.

In 2013 I am going to feature Seattle Urban Wineries taking on Lake Chelan AVA rivals.  There are some absolutely fabulous wines being made in both locales.  My hope is to crank up the volume and shine the spotlight on some awesome Washington wines each month.

First up is a match featuring Bordeaux Style blends dominated by Cabernet Franc.

2008 Fall Line Boushey Vineyard Red Blend v. 2009 Kamari Reserve Red from the Blending Room