Monica Di Pillo
I believe that each of us likes to meet with friends in summer, likes to have a drink with friends in the open air, and likes to raise a glass of wine under the lights of the sunset. So today we’re going to talk about a selection of white wines to drink for a “little get-together”, especially as an aperitif thanks to their organoleptic properties, freshness and balanced acidity.
Let’s start our journey in Trentino, here I have two suggestions: high altitude Chardonnay and Gewürztraminer, both varieties have intense aromas and are perfect for aperitifs, and of course both The sparkling wines from each grape variety are also excellent.
Alpine Chardonnay I recommend “Troy 2017 Chardonnay Riserva Alto Adige Doc”, which is a famous wine from Tramin Kellerei winery, which means “path” in South Tyrol, a long journey that represents research and experimentation A selection of noble grape varieties, planted in hilltop vineyards.
Its organoleptic profile is reminiscent of a decidedly mild April in 2017, with an early bud break. But in September, numerous rainy days acted as a balance, guaranteeing a temperature range conducive to acidity and freshness.
After 11 months on the lees, the wine is poured into stainless steel containers for a further 22 months of maturation. The clarification process is carried out by spontaneous sedimentation, and the wine is aged for another four months in bottle.
This process guarantees the wine’s delicate floral aromas and aromas of citrus, tropical fruit, chamomile and mint, with hints of almonds and toasted hazelnuts.
In short, “Troy” very elegantly displays its typical alpine character, especially suitable as an aperitif for parties, with aromas of mango, banana and melon, with hints of hazelnut, complemented by a lingering Incredible freshness and minerality with a persistent aroma.
As the sun goes down, enjoy a glass of white wine from the Terlan winery, another gem of the Alto Adige region, the “Traditional Gewürztraminer Alto Adige Doc”, which takes its name from the grapes used in the Termeno wine of the Bassa Atesina region village, which is the cornerstone of white wine production in South Tyrol.
Due to its pronounced floral and fruity aromas, and especially its intense bouquet, this wine is a favorite to toast at happy hour, and more recently it has been paired more and more with Asian cuisine.
The grapes are harvested by hand and carefully pressed. It is then slowly fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks and finally aged for 6-7 months in steel tanks. Its bright, saturated straw yellow color stands out in the glass, each shimmering, while its scent reveals hints of geranium and mango, with hints of honeysuckle and clove.
The floral notes end with aromas of rose, which is characteristic of this grape variety. Clearly, the characteristic aromatic structure of this wine is also present again on the palate, with fresh fruit and lively acidity, accompanied by minerality, leaving a round and persistent finish.
Continuing the route east, in charming Venice, is home to some of the lowest vineyards in Europe, an ancient indigenous grape variety: Dorona, rediscovered by the Bisol family and grown with It produced the “Venissa Bianco”, which was born on the island of Mazzorbo, west of Burano in Venice.
The wine is made with 100 percent Dorrona grapes, a variety from its native Venice that is now at risk of extinction and the Pesso family is committed to restoring it.
The harvest is done entirely by hand, and in early September the must begins to ferment and macerate for 22 days at a controlled temperature of 16-17°C. The wine then ages for 18 months in steel tanks before being bottled.
It is also particularly suitable as an aperitif, since “Venissa Bianco” is characterized by a bright straw yellow color, with an intense and complex floral aroma on the nose, and hints of pear, apricot, plum, almonds and spices, rich in Mineral and citrus flavors blend perfectly together.
Full-bodied and warm on the palate, with a pleasant softness, it is ideal with all kinds of seafood or as an aperitif.
