Stage 5 Recap

Wednesday’s route – not quite flat, not quite mountainous – brought the GC contenders to life. Primoz Roglic, especially, seemed eager to test his legs on the final slopes of the stage. In the end, though, Mads Pedersen was first to the line, claiming his third stage win of this year’s Giro. He also stays in the Maglia Rosa.

Thursday may change things, as the route from Potenza to Napoli is rather lumpy. At the 30 km mark, there is a Category 2 climb that winds on for approximately 20 kilometers. The only other categorized climb (Cat 3) comes at around 130 kms. Not too difficult, you say? Well, check out the stage profile map: you’ll see many undulations along the way. While uncategorized, they will be difficult. Watch for the stronger GC riders to take advantage of these opportunities to gain time on their rivals. And don’t forget the bonus seconds awarded to the first rider who crosses the Red Bull Kilometer close to the finish. Should be fun!

Sipping Spectator Recommendations

As we approach Napoli, we ride through a plethora of regions known for high-quality wine. For today’s Giro wine pairing, I’ve homed in on Irpinia, which offers DOCG- and DOC-level wines to suit all tastes. We have three selections today: one each from Fiano di Avellino DOCG; Greco di Tufo DOCG; and Irpinia Rosato DOC.

Terredora Di Paolo Fiano di Avellino Ex Cinere Resurgo

Pale straw in color, with aromas of stone fruit (apricot, peach), yellow pear, lemon zest, and wet rocks. On the palate it is dry with a notable mineral component, especially on the finish. It has flavors of lemon and orange, with lasting notes of honey and hazelnut. It was delicious with Lidia Bastianich’s Grouper with Peppers and Potatoes!

Kapemort Megaride Greco di Tufo

This wine is a tribute to Parthenope (a mermaid) who, according to myth, leaped to her death after being rejected by Ulysses. The sea carried her body to the island of Megaride, just off the Campanian coast. Note: Kapemort was at one time affiliated with Donnachiara Winery in Irpinia but I’m not certain if that’s still the case.

A prototypical Greco, this wine is super-aromatic, with notes of white peach, nectarine, and every type of citrus fruit you can imagine. On the palate it is full-bodied with high acidity, and just as flavorful as it is aromatic. A delightful sip on its own or with seafood. And I suspect it would be crazy-good with a grilled veal chop. Just delicious!

Feudi di San Gregorio Ros’Aura     

A robust yet well-balanced rosato wine made from the Aglianico grape known for its tannins and acidity. It’s a gorgeous color, with aromas of strawberry, cherry, and fresh arugula. On the palate it is tart and fresh, perfect for a summer day. Set out a platter of salami and cheese, pour a glass of Ros’Aura, and relax.

Enjoy Thursday’s race to Naples. See you tomorrow with updates and pairings for Friday!