L’Artusi, a buzzy Italian restaurant in New York City, doesn’t just serve the best olive oil cake and homemade ricotta you’ve ever tasted — it also has one of the most extensive Italian wine lists in the city. The 20-page list is arranged by region, featuring wines from Valle d’Aosta all the way down to Sicily.
Organizing and managing such a comprehensive list for this bi-level restaurant is no small feat, but beverage director Anncherie Saludo makes it seem effortless. Saludo began as a server at L’Artusi in 2008, but, when managers noticed her knack for connecting with guests and educating others, she worked her way up to beverage director. Along with her commitment to constantly educating herself through travel, tastings, and seminars, Saludo also spends her time advocating for women in the wine industry.
We asked this wine professional with a thirst for knowledge which wine she would marry, what she’d order if she couldn’t drink wine, and more.
1. What’s the bottle that made you fall in love with wine?
Château L’Angélus St. Emilion Grand Cru Classé 1990.
2. FMK three varieties: Cabernet, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay.
F: Pinot Noir
M: Chardonnay
K: Cabernet
3. You’re on death row. What’s your last-supper wine?
Edmond Vatan Clos la Néore.
4. You can only drink one wine for the rest of your life. What is it?
Chenin Blanc.
5. You can only drink at one bar for the rest of your life. What is it?
Caffè Meletti in Ascoli Piceno, Italy.
6. What’s the best and worst wine on your rack (or in your fridge) right now?
Best: Bartolo Mascarello Barolo 2010. Worst: Moncalvina Moscato d’Asti 2017.
7. If you could no longer drink wine, what would be your beverage of choice?
Mezcal.
