Two Tastings With Women Wine Makers

I have never been to Vintages: Adventures in Wine, which has locations in West Concord and Belmont. But I am going to visit there soon, especially because they are having a special wine maker tasting that really interests me.

Vintages' website states: "Explore the best wines of Barolo, Barbaresco & Brunello, Burgundy & Bordeaux Rioja & Rhone, grower-maker champagnes. Discover the new and traditional, classic & radical. Artisan wines made with care, wines of originality and substance. Wine is our passion; we work for you!"

From what I have read on their website, it sounds like an intriguing wine store. And on January 29, they are hosting two women wine makers, one at their Belmont location and the other in West Concord.

The West Concord tasting, from 4-6pm, will present Maria Lopez de Heredia from Rioja, Spain. "Established in 1877, Lopez de Heredia is now run by the fifth generation, but little has changed in the wine cellars. "We're proud of not changing," says Maria, who co-manages this legendary bodega with her father. Maria will present a selection of wines -- red, white and rose -- at this tasting."

Lopez de Heredia makes some exceptional and traditional wines. I have previously reviewed their 1997 R. López de Heredia Vino Tondonia Rosado Crianza which made my list of the Top Ten Wines Over $15 of 2008. There is going to be some very delicious wines at the tasting, and I look forward to meeting Maria Lopez de Heredia.

The Belmont tasting, from 4-7pm, will present Anna Maria Abbona from Farigliano, Piedmont. "Anna Maria and her husband gave up their careers to return to the family vineyards in 1989. It didn't seem like a smart move, since the vineyards were not prestigious or of easy viticulture. Yet, they knew that Dolcetto had always thrived in this area, and they focused on maximizing its potential over the last two decades. Annamaria has also planted Nebbiolo in a sunny, protected spot on the hillside, which has produced equally delicious results!"

Wine tasting with the wine makers are usually very informative and enjoyable events. If you can check out one of these tastings, you definitely should do so.

Vintages: Adventures in Wine
53 Commonwealth Ave.
West Concord, MA
Phone: 978-369-2545

32 Leonard St.
Belmont Center, MA
Phone: 617-484-4560