President Obama Gifts Italian President Napolitano with Raffaldini Wine
Ronda, N.C. - President Barack Obama met with Italian President Giorgio Napolitano this morning in Rome prior to heading to the G8 Summit in L’Aquila, and presented him with a variety of American wines from across the nation packaged in a custom-made box crafted from the wood of former Oval Office flooring.
Included in his gift was the 2008 Raffaldini Vineyards Vermentino.
“All of your wines are excellent, robust and with a lot of character,” State Dept. Event Manager Jason Larkin said in an email. “I am excited to be able to include a wine representing North Carolina.”
The Vermentino grape is most famously cultivated in Sardinia, an island off the coast of Italy, and in the Mediterranean coastal districts of Italy. In 2003, Raffaldini was among the first vineyards to plant the grape in the U.S. The 2008 vintage, a medal winner at the San Francisco International Wine Competition, is characterized by its lively green apple and lime flavors and refreshing acidity.
“Raffaldini Vineyards is honored to have been selected to represent the U.S. and is proud that our preservation and promotion of our Italian heritage and culture have been recognized,” Barbara Raffaldini, co-owner and general counsel, said.
About Raffaldini Vineyards
Nestled in the Yadkin Valley Region of North Carolina, family-owned Raffaldini Vineyards brings Old World charm to the Old North State. Known as “Chianti in the Carolinas,” Raffaldini currently produces both varietal wines and blends with its signature wines being Vermentino, Pinot Grigio, Sangiovese, Sangiovese Riserva and Montepulciano. Raffaldini hosts public and private events throughout the year. Please visit our web site, www.raffaldini.com, call 336.835.9463 or email info@raffaldini.com for more information.
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Contact
Thomas Salley
336.835.9463
Thomas@raffaldini.com
