Ambiente Italiano

A new venture..the owner, Riccardo Re, had been 'maître d' at another Italian restaurant we used to frequent...but the atmosphere and the food on our last visits left a lot to be desired.
This was annoying as Riccardo Re was the star...perfect service..and had a love for wines.
He recently took over a restaurant and has renamed it 'Ristorante Ambiente Italiano'..so the birthday boy(me)..took the family along. It was an excellent choice Barry!
Lovely open restaurant..light and friendly...excellent service...super food..and a young wine-list that will be expanded...we had a really enjoyable evening.

Lageder Pinot Grigio 2006
Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy
I would order Pinot Grigio when visiting restaurants that had, maybe, only 5 wines on the list..without vintage and grower details. We have all been there.It would never knock me out..but saved me drinking the other four on offer!

However...from a top grower..it is definitely worth trying..and as I didn't want a 'heavyweight' to start the evening..this fitted nicely into the plans.

Straw yellow with a green shimmer... flowery aroma..peaches and somewhat spicy notes..
complex fruit flavors..with the usually mierally crispness.

Points 15.5

The two reds were recommended by Riccardo.....and were excellent choices.
Fratelli Molino Langhe Nebbiolo 2005
Piedmont, Italy

This is a young version of Barolo..made entirely from the Nebbiolo grape..it offers red and black cherries..some oak..smoky..lovely balance..has style..and the chalky tannins that tell you it is Italian...earthy..and sweet fruits..drinking nicely now..and a good food wine(as are most Italians)

Points 16

San Fabiano Calcinaia Cerviolo 2003
Toscana, Italy
This is a 'Super Tuscan'
40% Sangiovese, 30% Merlot & 30% Cabernet Sauvignon
A wine to work with..complex aromas of spices, tobacco & coffee...and vanilla popping it's head round the door....then a whiff of blackberries..all this led to a well-balanced wine with rounded tannins....there is a freshness...really enjoyable..
Points 17