There’s a reason I’ve spent decades traveling through Italy—from the foggy vineyards of Piedmont to the sun-baked coasts of Sicily. It’s not just about the food or the wine; it’s about the feeling of a meal that demands you slow down.
Winter, for me, is the best time to recreate that feeling. It’s the season for rich, slow-cooked flavors and wines that have a story to tell.
That’s why, on Friday, January 30th at 6:30 PM, I’m hosting a special Winter Italian Wine Dinner at my restaurant, Aroma Thyme Bistro.
A Night of Authentic Italian Hospitality
This isn’t just another dinner service. I’ve designed this evening to be an intimate culinary journey, pulling from my time in Italy’s rustic trattorias and my personal relationships with some of the world’s best winemakers.
My goal is to share the specific wines that have blown me away—bottles that define their region and pair perfectly with the menu I’ve curated. This is about integrity in sourcing, respect for ingredients, and the joy of a shared table.
The Menu & My Wine Selections
I’m pouring wines that I’m passionate about—selections that go beyond the label.
Antipasto I
Warm Sheep’s Milk Ricotta with Honey, Walnuts, Cracked Black Pepper & Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
My Pairing: Soave Classico Otto – Pra
This isn’t your average white; it’s complex, mineral-driven, and sets the stage perfectly.
Antipasto II
Winter Black Truffle & Wild Mushroom Crostini
My Pairing: Etna Bianco – Graci
If you’ve heard me talk about volcanic wines, you know why this matters—it’s vibrant, distinct, and cuts right through the richness of the truffles.
Primo
Cavatelli Pasta with Roasted Butternut Squash, 24-Month Parmigiano Reggiano, Aged Balsamic, Hazelnuts & Arugula
My Pairing: Bardolino – Le Fraghe
A pairing that honors the ingredients—fresh, alive, and perfectly balanced.
Secondo
Cotechino & Lentils (Slow-Cooked Pork Sausage from Emilia-Romagna)
My Pairing: Valpolicella Classico – Ugolini Pozzetto
A dish with this much history needs a wine with backbone. This Valpolicella delivers.
Dolce
Pannetone
Join Me at the Table
When: Friday, January 30, 2026 at 6:30 PM
Where: Aroma Thyme Bistro, Ellenville, NY
Investment: $49 per person
Reserve: (845) 647-3000
I’m keeping the seating limited because I want to be able to talk to you about these wines, share the stories behind the producers, and enjoy the evening together.
If you trust my palate and want to experience Italian winter dining the way it’s meant to be, I’d love to see you there.
Call (845) 647-3000 to reserve your seat.
Cheers,
Marcus Guiliano
Chef, Author, & Host of VIP Winery Vacations