Page 13 - Italian-American Herald - July 2024

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THE CHEF’S PERSPECTIVE
By Murray Schulman
I recently had the opportunity to visit Penns Woods Winery in Chadds Ford, Pa., where I met company
president Carley Razzi and was impressed by her natural approach to viticulture.
The winery was established in 2001 following the dream of founder Gino Razzi, Carley’s father. She said that although Gino is retired, he remains active in all aspects of the winery.
Gino carries the traditions from his home in Abbruzzi to the vineyard he started in Pennsylvania. His efforts yielded the first vintage of their own grapes in 2004. Carley chose to carry on the Abbruzzi traditions that were deeply embedded in her life and spirit after graduating from college. She came home and joined the winery operation in 2009 where she fell in love with the soil, the vines, and the art of winemaking.
Davide Creato came to the vineyard from Italy in 2011 as an intern, and he and Carley Razzi fell in love. He is now vineyard
manager, while she is president and chief financial officer.
Grapes are grown at Penns Woods Winery using what she called “bio-dynamic” practices – meaning no processed fertilizers are used. The use of chemical applications is limited and closely monitored.
The winery grows plants such as daikon, brassica, legumes and crimson clover as “cover crops” that provide natural aeration of the soil, natural weed control, and even natural insect repellent.
What about their wine? Spectacular! I have several bottles of Penns Woods’ wines in my wine cabinet. I am a red wine guy. However, their Sauvignon Blanc changed my perspective. I have tasted Sauvignon Blanc in the past and went right back to my beloved reds. This Sauvignon Blanc is aromatic, full bodied, rich in citrusy flavors mixed with gooseberries, green apple and wild grasses. It finishes long and gentle.
Paired with the tart, tangy and earthy flavors of goat cheese, well-seasoned shrimp, or even oysters and clams from the oyster bar, this wine is a delight. Liz especially enjoyed the 2023 Wildflower White. When I opened the bottle, we were struck with
Razzi said
grapes are
grown using
“bio-dynamic”
practices -
meaning no processed fertilizers are used.
ITALIAN-AMERICAN HERALD
JULY2024 | ITALIANAMERICANHERALD.COM 13
Panorama Restaurant & Wine Bar
Classic authentic and contemporary Italian specialties in the Penn’s View Hotel in the heart of Old City Philadelphia. 5-9 p.m. Tue.- Thu.; 5-10 p.m. Fri.; 3-10 p.m. Sat.; 2-8 p.m. Sun. Dinner entrees $27-$45, including lobster ravioli, gnocchi tartuffo, braciola, New York strip. Also offering more than 120 wines on tap, poured from a custom-made winekeeper that holds Guinness World Record as largest
in the world. Reservations recommended.
14 N. Front St., Philadelphia. (215) 922-7800. www.panoramawinebar.com
Penns Woods Winery
Blending Old World tradition and modern innovation, Penns Woods has been producing premium wines in Pennsylvania for more than 20 years. Soak in vineyard views from the Tasting Room or enjoy a relaxing afternoon
on the lawn with a bottle of wine. Serves a selection of local cheeses and accoutrements. Outdoor picnics welcome. Live music every weekend (spring-fall) and special events through- out the year. Open daily. See website for hours. 124 Beaver Valley Road., Chadds Ford, Pa. (610) 459-0808. www.pennswoodswinery.com
Serpe & Sons Bakery
Known for 70 years for delicious bread and rolls, cakes, pies, pastries and cookies, Serpe’s also offers all the ingredients to make your own pizza at home. You can also take home Rosa Fine Foods and Scaramuzza Pasta Products. 1411 Kirkwood Highway, Elsmere.
(302) 994-1868. www.serpesbakery.com
Suburban Food Service
Food truck offering breakfast, lunch and dinner at your location and time with a day’s notice. Italian, Mexican, American, Eagles tailgate parties. Featured items: Grab-and-go cheese- steaks, taco bowls, lemon roasted chicken, penne pasta with crispy prosciutto and parmesan. Lunch entrees $10-$15; dinner $15-$25.
(610) 618-9250. www.suburbanfoodservice.com
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Penns Woods Winery produces nine reds, two roses and six whites. | PHOTOS BY MURRAY SCHULMAN
Penns Woods Winery: From Abbruzzi with love