Sunday’s race begins near Ravenna, on the Adriatic coast, then turns inland toward Bologna where it veers south and west into the mountains. With the GC competition heating up (thanks to Jai Hindley, Felix Gall, and Afonso Eulalio) I’m looking forward to the drama that’s sure to unfold. Each of these riders will have his team working to outmaneuver Jonas Vingegaard and the Vizma squad. Get the popcorn ready!

But first, here are the highlights from Stage 8, which was a drama unto itself:

About Stage 9: Cervia to Corno Alle Scale; 184 kms

Just two categorized climbs, but they will be brutal: both come near the end of the race and pack a punch. The ascent to Querciola (category 3) occurs 156 kms into the race; the final climb to Corno Alle Scale comes immediately afterward. It’s a category 1 with gradients between 6% and 11%. Ugh! Another stage victory for Jonas???

Wine Recommendation: 2025 Fattoria Zerbina Rosa di Ceparano IGP Ravenna ($19; 12% abv)

This fresh, lively rosé is a tasty blend of Sangiovese (60%) and Syrah (40%), vinified separately, in stainless steel tanks. Located outside the city of Ravenna, Fattoria Zerbina dates back to 1966, when Vincenzo Geminiani bought the estate and shifted to estate-bottling his wines. In 1987, his granddaughter Cristina assumed the reins, after completing an agronomy degree from the University of Milan, and enology studies with Denis Dubourdieu of Bordeaux. Her passion lies in protecting indigenous grape varieties such as Albana, Sangiovese, and Ancellotta.

Tasting Notes and Pairing

Pale coral color with inviting aromas of cherry, nectarine, and ripe strawberry. There is also a whiff of fresh peony flowers and a slight herbaceous character (imagine walking through an herb garden and trailing your fingers through the leaves.) The palate is at once fruity (red berries, juicy peach) and savory: there’s a meatiness in the mix that probably comes from the Syrah, which is lifted so nicely by the acidity and red cherry of the Sangiovese. The long finish leaves behind a barely-there salty impression. Damn, this is tasty!

I paired this with a simple cauliflower sheet pan dinner that includes pancetta, pickled jalapeno peppers, red onion, chickpeas, olives, garlic, and lemon. So easy and delicious! It was perfect with the wine, which disappeared way too quickly. You’re gonna need more than one bottle, especially if you’re sharing . . .

Have fun with Stage 9. I’ll be back tomorrow with a preview of Stage 10 and another wine to enjoy as you watch!