Tre Bicchiere from Gambero Rosso...Bravo Marcello!

Franciacorta is Italy's answer to the Champagne region in France. The small bubbles and minerality which are the signatures of this prestigious sparkling wine have long been appreciated by Italian wine connossieurs. Marcello was the first boutique producer that Mark Monaco of Palateur Imports seeked out based on discussions between he, Jeff Benjamin and Marc Vetri of Vetri Ristorante and Osteria in Philadelphia, PA. There was a mutual belief in bringing such an artistically crafted sparkling wine to their consumers and this belief continues today.

Marcello Monzio Compagnoni was recently awarded "Tre Bicchiere" for their 2003 Extra Brut Franciacorta by Gambero Rosso. The Gambero Rosso guide is Italy's equivalent to our Robert Parker Guide and the coveted "Tre Bicchiere" or Three Glass award is like being blessed with a 94 plus Parker rating. Says Mark Monaco of Palateur..."not that we get very caught up in ratings and scores, this award basically puts the stamp of excellence on Marcello's work in the sparkling wine world and something that Jeff, Marc and myself have believed in for quite some time. We are so happy for Marcello and delighted to be able to represent his craftsmanship."