Wine production in La Rioja was started by monks in the late 9th century. In the ensuing years, wine production boomed in the area and legislation was created to protect the quality of the wine. For example, there was a law passed in 1635 that prohibited horse drawn carts from traveling to close to wine cellars for fear that the vibrations would interfere with the fermentation process. In later years, wine was the reason for the creation of better roads, and the invention of new modes of transportation.
La Rioja produces mostly Red wines, about 85%, but whites and rosés are produced as well. The region is responsible for almost 70 million gallons of wine annually. Most Rioja wines are aged using oak barrels or casks, many of which are made from American grown Oak trees. The uses of oak and pronounced vanilla flavors are common characteristics of wines from La Rioja.
Rioja wines are available in the Sandburg Wine Cellar, at Potash on Clark, and in the wine section of Potash on State. There will be a tasting of Rioja Wines held at the Sandberg Wine Cellar at Potash on Clark on Friday May, 27 from 4-7. See you there!
Filed Under:
Caprese Salad, also known as Insalata Caprese, or salad in the style of Capri, is a delicious salad made with buffalo mozzarella, red ripe tomatoes, and fresh basil. Caprese Salad originated in Campania, an area in southern Italy that includes the resort island of Capri.
Caprese Salad is generally served as an antipasto, or starter, before a meal and not as a side dish during the meal as salads sometimes are in America. Regardless, Caprese Salad is delicious and refreshing anytime you choose to eat it.
It is not clear whether the salad actually originated on the island of Capri, but it rose to international levels of popularity after being served there to the world renowned gourmand, King Farouk of Egypt in the 1950s. Caprese Salad is currently on sale now in the Potash Market deli for only $6.99 a pound.
Filed Under: All Natural, Fruit & Vegetables, Seasonal,
