Last week I had the distinct pleasure of joining a small group of Manhattan wine lovers for a cross-cultural pairing dinner featuring the white wines of Lugana, in northern Italy, and authentic Mexican dishes.

Ghoulish decor at La Palapa – probably a remnant of Día de los Muertos!

Susannah Gold, east coast brand ambassador for Lugana wines, loves to add a spin to traditional pairing menus by pouring her wines with an assortment of spices, flavors, and cooking styles. At one of her recent events, she served Lugana wines alongside traditional Chinese food – a great success, according to all who attended.

When I received the invitation to taste-test the liquid gold wines of Lugana with Barbara Sibley’s highly-rated fare at La Palapa, I responded “yes” right away!