Sommelier’s pick
Who: Darrin Baumunk, wine-buyer and operating partner for Lasco Enterprises, which operates The Tasting Room and Max’s Wine Dive
Background: Baumunk holds a bachelor of science degree in chemical engineering and petroleum refining from the Colorado School of Mines. His passion for wine, honed while working as an engineer in a variety of roles, led to his becoming a bartender at The Tasting Room in Uptown Park in 2007. He eventually graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in St. Helena, Calif., as a Certified Wine Professional — Advanced Level II (ACWP).
What: 2015 Ceretto Blangè Arneis
Why: Arneis is the reference-standard white grape from Italy’s Piemonte, and the Cerettos were among the wine families that ensured the varietal wouldn’t be allowed to die out, which almost happened in the 1970s. Baumunk tried this wine on the advice of a friend because he was looking for “something clean, refreshing and bright — but different. The suggestion was spot on, as recommended,” he said, adding, “then something unusual happened. I didn’t finish the bottle because I had to get to another commitment. That’s rare for me unless I’m deliberately saving it to see how it behaves after a few days. I came back from a short weekend (away) and opened the refrigerator and found about a third of the bottle left, just enough for glass. Even after three days, it was still fresh, lively and lovely.”
Price: $49 for a bottle at The Tasting Room Uptown Park