Welcome to SIPS, the new blog page of Lucciola Italian Fine Dining Restaurant, where wine is not just a beverage but a passion and an experience.

Curated by Alberto Ghezzi, Wine Director of Lucciola, Executive Chef Michele Casadei Massari, and the entire Lucciola team, Sips will take you on a journey through the world of wine.

Here, we will share our discoveries, from meeting remarkable producers to exploring unique grape varieties, mastering the art of pairing, and diving into the world of collectible wines.

Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your wine adventure, Sips is your destination for inspiration, knowledge, and a deep appreciation for the stories behind each bottle.

Join us as we uncork the secrets of the vine and celebrate the art of wine

Exploring Ceretto
PIEMONTE, ITALIAN WINES Alberto Ghezzi PIEMONTE, ITALIAN WINES Alberto Ghezzi

Exploring Ceretto

Nestled in the heart of Piemonte, Ceretto is more than just a winery—it's a legacy of innovation, sustainability, and artistry. From crafting world-renowned Barolo and Barbaresco wines to restoring the iconic Chapel of Barolo, Ceretto offers an unforgettable journey through wine, history, and culture. Join me as I explore this third-generation estate, where tradition meets modernity in every bottle.

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Barbaresco and Il Bricco by Pio Cesare
Alberto Ghezzi Alberto Ghezzi

Barbaresco and Il Bricco by Pio Cesare

Cesare Benvenuto shared that at Pio Cesare, every vintage is seen as exceptional, thanks to their unwavering commitment to high standards in both winemaking and viticulture. With the same winemaker at the helm for over 40 years, they have masterfully balanced tradition with innovation. Together with his cousin Federica, Cesare personally ensures that every release upholds the family’s legacy of excellence.

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Barolo: Exploring the Crus of Italy's King of Wines
Alberto Ghezzi Alberto Ghezzi

Barolo: Exploring the Crus of Italy's King of Wines

Barolo, often hailed as the "King of Wines and Wine of Kings," is one of Italy's most esteemed red wines. Originating from the picturesque hills of the Langhe region in Piedmont, Barolo is exclusively crafted from the Nebbiolo grape, renowned for its ability to produce wines characterized by elegance, structure, and complexity. The true allure of Barolo lies not only in its exquisite taste but also in the distinctiveness of its terroir, encapsulated in its crus. These individual vineyard sites impart unique qualities to the wine.

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Wine Glasses - What are our your choices?
Alberto Ghezzi Alberto Ghezzi

Wine Glasses - What are our your choices?

Alberto Ghezzi, Wine Director of Lucciola Fine Dining

"When people ask me, 'In what glass do you like to drink wine?' I always say, 'It depends on the moment.' Wine isn't just a drink—it's an experience, and the right glass enhances that experience. Whether hosting a dinner party with friends or opening a rare vintage for a special occasion, the choice of glass matters. It can highlight the wine’s nuances and deepen the connection with the people you’re sharing it with. At Lucciola, we curate each detail with this philosophy, making every sip memorable."

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UNDERSTAND BURGUNDY
Alberto Ghezzi Alberto Ghezzi

UNDERSTAND BURGUNDY

UNDERSTAND BURGUNDY

I love wine. I love its history, the process, and the diversity it brings. Being Italian-born, I naturally embraced Italian wines. Yet, French wines, especially those from Burgundy, have always been an intriguing mystery. Burgundy is revered as the home of Pinot Noir—a place where winemakers go to study, and tourists flock to explore.

For newcomers, let's start with a basic distinction: Château vs. Domaine. In Bordeaux, "château" refers to a singular estate, whereas in Burgundy, "domaine" covers vineyards spread across various regions, reflecting the diversity of Burgundy’s terroirs.

Burgundy, nestled in east-central France, is easily accessible by train from Paris. But for a more immersive experience, a countryside drive will reveal its rich winemaking heritage, with appellations like Romanée-Conti and La Tâche, known for their exceptional quality and prestigious history.

Understanding Burgundy’s classification is key. At the top are Grand Cru wines, representing 1.5% of Burgundy’s production, followed by Premier Cru, Village Wines, and Regional Wines. The Grand Cru vineyards, defined by their terroir and strict regulations, are the pinnacle of winemaking, making these wines powerful, complex, and age-worthy.

Burgundy’s allure lies not only in its wines but in its timeless connection to history, craftsmanship, and the earth itself.

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Costaripa Wine Dinner
Alberto Ghezzi Alberto Ghezzi

Costaripa Wine Dinner

Expert Excerpt: Mastering Rosé Wine Pairing in Fine Dining

Pairing rosé wines with fine dining is an art, blending flavors that enhance both the dish and the wine. At Lucciola's recent Costaripa dinner, Executive Chef Michele Casadei Massari created a menu that perfectly complemented the vibrant acidity and floral notes of the rosé wines. Guided by Nicole Vezzola, daughter of winemaker Mattia Vezzola, the pairings focused on storytelling and tradition. With dishes like Lobster Pasticcio and Duck à l'Orange Risotto, the evening showcased how versatile and elegant rosé wines can be in a gourmet setting.

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Exciting New Wine Club Dinner Season at Lucciola
Alberto Ghezzi Alberto Ghezzi

Exciting New Wine Club Dinner Season at Lucciola

We are delighted to announce the launch of our new Wine Club Dinner season at Lucciola, beginning on September 5, 2024. This season promises an exploration of both young, innovative wineries and legendary estates, offering our guests a truly unique and enriching experience. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious newcomer, this series of dinners is designed to captivate your palate and expand your appreciation for the art of winemaking.

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Beyond Brut Rosé: A Journey Through Billecart-Salmon
CHAMPAGNE, FRENCH WINES, WINE DINNER, WINE CLUB Alberto Ghezzi CHAMPAGNE, FRENCH WINES, WINE DINNER, WINE CLUB Alberto Ghezzi

Beyond Brut Rosé: A Journey Through Billecart-Salmon

Following the resounding success of the 2023 event, Lucciola once again hosted Billecart-Salmon for a culinary journey. Chef Michele Casadei Massari has curated a seven-course tasting menu paired with the latest releases from this Champagne House, including highlights like the 2012 Billecart-Salmon Elisabeth Rosé Vintage and the 2012 Louis Salmon Blanc de Blancs.

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When Wine and Exotic Cars Meet. A Night of Elegance, Sophistication and Patina
WINE, ITALIAN WINES, EVENTS, TUSCANY Alberto Ghezzi WINE, ITALIAN WINES, EVENTS, TUSCANY Alberto Ghezzi

When Wine and Exotic Cars Meet. A Night of Elegance, Sophistication and Patina

On June 4th, at Lucciola, it was not an ordinary night. Wine connoisseurs and exotic car enthusiasts, two communities driven by passion and a keen eye for excellence, gathered for a truly extraordinary event. Like a patina, the setting sun casts a golden glow over the gathering, hinting at the splendor that awaited within.

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Tasting Journey with Château Angelus and Lucciola
WINE, PANTRY, EVENTS, ITALIAN WINES, FRENCH WINES, BORDEAUX Alberto Ghezzi WINE, PANTRY, EVENTS, ITALIAN WINES, FRENCH WINES, BORDEAUX Alberto Ghezzi

Tasting Journey with Château Angelus and Lucciola

Last night, Apr 3, 2023, at Lucciola, we kicked off our Wine Club's French Wines Month in style, showcasing the extraordinary Bordeaux from Chateau Angelus.

Maître d' Alexandra Lascu warmly welcomed the guests, adding a personal touch to the evening. From the first bite to the last sip, every moment celebrated culinary excellence and shared camaraderie.

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Suadela Showcase: An Evening of Italian Wine Excellence
WINE, ITALIAN WINES, PANTRY, EVENTS, RECIPES Alberto Ghezzi WINE, ITALIAN WINES, PANTRY, EVENTS, RECIPES Alberto Ghezzi

Suadela Showcase: An Evening of Italian Wine Excellence

In the heart of New York City's Upper West Side, amidst the bustling streets of the metropolis, a symphony of flavors unfolded on the evening of March 20, 2024. At the esteemed Lucciola restaurant, renowned chef Michele Casadei Massari crafted an unforgettable seven-course menu to accompany the exquisite lineup of wines from Suadela.

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Explore Lucciola's Award-Winning Wines List
WINE, AWARDS, NEW YORK CITY, BEST ITALIAN WINES Alberto Ghezzi WINE, AWARDS, NEW YORK CITY, BEST ITALIAN WINES Alberto Ghezzi

Explore Lucciola's Award-Winning Wines List

Fine dining isn't just about exceptional food but crafting an unforgettable experience. Lucciola, a haven for gourmands, received the prestigious 2023 Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence. This recognition places us amongst the global elite, showcasing an extraordinary dedication to the art of wine.

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Wine Dinner with Donnafugata at Lucciola
WINE, PANTRY, EVENTS, ART AND DESIGN, RECIPES Alberto Ghezzi WINE, PANTRY, EVENTS, ART AND DESIGN, RECIPES Alberto Ghezzi

Wine Dinner with Donnafugata at Lucciola

On the evening of Monday, February 26, 2024, Lucciola hosted an unforgettable wine dinner, featuring the exquisite wines of Donnafugata, a beacon among Sicilian wine brands. This event marked Lucciola's second wine dinner of the year, showcasing a remarkable collaboration with Donnafugata, a name synonymous with the best wines from Sicily. Antonio Rallo, the esteemed winemaker from Donnafugata, graced New York City with his presence, bringing with him the rich flavors and heritage of Sicilian wines after a nearly five-year absence.

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Champagne Dinner with Frank Pascal at Lucciola

Champagne Dinner with Frank Pascal at Lucciola

Lucciola, the exquisite Italian restaurant in the heart of the city, played host to a Champagne Dinner curated by none other than the masterful winemaker, Frank Pascal. This exclusive event, organized by the Wine Society, marked the beginning of a spectacular year for wine enthusiasts, bringing together the finest biodynamic wines from Champagne.

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A Journey Through Gattinara
WINE, ITALIAN WINES, PANTRY, EVENTS, RECIPES Alberto Ghezzi WINE, ITALIAN WINES, PANTRY, EVENTS, RECIPES Alberto Ghezzi

A Journey Through Gattinara

Lucciola, New York's culinary gem, hosted an exclusive Travaglini wine dinner on October 26, 2023. Guided by Alessia Travaglini, guests embarked on a journey through Gattinara's terroir. Each pour—from the vibrant Coste della Sesia 2022 to the ethereal Nebolè—unveiled the region's rich heritage. Chef Michele Massari's culinary artistry enhanced the experience, with dishes thoughtfully paired to complement the wines' nuances. As Alessia shared the family's winemaking legacy, guests were transported to Gattinara's sun-drenched slopes. It was an evening of elegance, flavor, and camaraderie—a celebration of Travaglini's timeless wines and the enduring allure of Italian terroir.

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