ContraPosto 2020
Classic Movie Pairing
Grand Hotel (1932)This landmark MGM film features a terrific cast of A-list stars, including Joan Crawford, John Barrymore and Greta Garbo. Each of these colorful personalities is given an intriguing storyline in the titular Berlin hotel, adding up to a well- balanced dramatic mix—perfect for a wine that shows off the best of Italy’s many grape varieties.
THE WINE
The Italian word contrapposto refers to perfect balance in works of art, like Michelangelo’s David. As you’ll taste, this masterpiece has seriously fine form all its own. Crafted by Sofia Barbanera (below), it showcases premium grapes from across Italy. Though she’s keeping the exact blend a secret, we can tell you it was partially barrel aged in French oak for six months and artfully weaves together some of the trademark characteristics of each region for layers of sumptuous black fruit flavor. Well deserving of its gold-medal win at Berliner Wein Trophy.
THE ESTATE
Back in 1938, Altero Barbanera bought a small piece of land in the Piazze area of Tuscany. He planted vines and started producing vino da tavola to enjoy with family and sell locally. His son, Luigi, expanded the business and passed it on to his sons, Marco and Paolo, who are at the helm today. In the cellar, fourth- generation Sofia (Paolo’s daughter) crafts first-class wines, alongside talented winemaker Andrea Bernardini.
THE REGION
Called ‘Oenotria’ or ‘land of the vine’ by the ancient Greeks, Italy is home to a staggering number of grape varieties. With all these options, it’s no wonder Sofia was inspired to look beyond Tuscany: “For some time, I have had in mind to craft a single wine from grapes sourced across a number of regions, which together would create a wine far greater than the sum of its parts.”
WITH FOOD
A wine like ContraPosto—velvety and filled with rich fruit flavors—is the perfect companion for a wide variety of foods. Meaty pastas (beef-stuffed ravioli) or osso buco would be perfect. Vegetarians can go for eggplant Parmesan or bitter greens like dandelion and broccoli rabe prepared in the traditional Puglian way—boiled, then sautéed with olive oil and garlic.
What's Not to Love?
TCM Wine Club brings the magic of movies and wine together - all delivered right to your door. Your first case includes 12 delicious wines from around the world expertly paired with the classic films you love on TCM. Plus, enjoy our 3 BONUS CLASSIC MOVIE WINES!