White Wine Acustic Celler Ritme Blanc 2018. Serve well chilled. The Priorat wine region in northeastern Spain may be better known for its powerful red wines, but its white wines are quickly gaining popularity for their incredible balance and finesse. Albert Jané’s Ritme Blanc is a classic combination of the indigenous grapes Garnacha Blanca and Macabeo sourced from 20 to 80 year old vines planted on Priorat’s distinctive llicorella or slate soils. Albert practices organic farming in his vineyards and hand harvests all of the grapes to ensure that the best possible raw ingredients go into his wines. He then ferments 30% of the wine in new French oak and the remainder in stainless steel tanks before ageing the wine with the lees for 11 months. This thoughtful approach to winemaking helps to create a multifaceted, complex white wine which boasts hints of anise, sweet baking spices, ripe peaches, flinty minerality and delicate white flowers. On the palate there is a delicious smooth creamy texture from the ageing process and a well-rounded mouthfeel which is perfectly balanced by the fresh acidity. This bold personality makes the Ritme Blanc ideal for sipping on its own or alongside a creamy pasta or chicken dish.
2018
White Wine Acustic Celler Ritme Blanc 2018
White Wine Allimant Laugner Gewürztraminer 2018. Although the Laugner and Allimant families have been vignerons since at least the 1500s, Domaine Allimant-Laugner only came into existence in 1965 following the wedding of Mariette Allimant and René Laugner. Today the estate is in the hands of 11th generation winemaker Hubert Laugner who takes good care of the family’s 12 hectares of prime vineyards planted on hillsides along the Rhine River in Alsace. The family’s Gewurztraminer is an excellent example of the variety with plenty of vibrancy and aromatic character. The warm summer days in this part of France help to ripen the grapes while the cooling breezes from the river help to preserve delicate floral notes and sufficient freshness to provide balance and finesse. On the nose there are enticing hints of honeysuckle, white peaches and honey while the first sip reveals a bright acidity, light body, and pure and clean finish. The fresh, light style of this white makes it an exceptional aperitif on a hot summer’s day and it pairs very well with cheeses, fresh seafood, and crisp salads. The ample acidity levels also make it a great match for spicy dishes as the freshness helps to refresh the palate and balance out the heat from the food.
2018
White Wine Renato Ratti Brigata Langhe Chardonnay 2018. As a young man Renato Ratti studied enology and emigrated to Brazil where he quickly rose to head up the production of vermouths and sparkling wines for Cinzano in Sao Paolo. In 1965 he decided to return to his native Piedmont to pursue his dream of making his own wines. Ratti soon purchased his first vineyard, a small plot just below the Abbey of L’Annunziata in La Morra, which is today considered one of Barolo’s finest crus. In 1988 Renato’s son, Pietro, took over the running of the estate. He has continued to innovate by adding a new gravity flow cellar and expanding the family’s vineyards. As well as producing exceptional Barolos, the estate now also produces a range of delicious Piedmontese wines like this elegant Chardonnay. The wine is crafted from top quality grapes which are picked at optimum maturity and vinified in stainless steel tanks to preserve the pure varietal character. On the nose there are enticing notes of green apple, zesty citrus, honeysuckle and pineapple while the first sip reveals a medium body, silky smooth texture and restrained acidity. The refined flavour profile makes this Chardonnay a great match for risottos, pan-fried fish dishes or roasted chicken.
2018