White Wine Burja Bela 2020. The Lavrenčič family have lived in the Vipava Valley in Slovenia since at least 1499 and for the past three generations they have made wine here. In 2009 Primoz Lavrenčič left the family winery to set up his own project named Burja after the fierce wind that blows through the valley and has a big impact on everything from daily life to the kinds of crops that can be grown here. Primoz seeks to work in harmony with nature wherever possible and practices both organic and biodynamic viticulture. He primarily uses local grape varieties which are well-suited to this region with its proximity to the sea and the mountains. Bela is crafted from Malvazija, Welschriesling, Rebula, and Vipavec grapes which grow on marl and sandstone soils in the valley. The fruit is carefully harvested by hand with 70% fermented in oak barrels and the remainder in concrete tanks. The young wine is then aged in oak barrels for 11 months and is bottled without filtering or fining to preserve the full natural character of the wine. The result is an intense white wine with ripe tropical and stone fruits on the nose and a rich texture and medium body balanced by a lively streak of acidity.
2020
White Wine Burja Bela 2020
White Wine Terras Gauda 2020. Based in the Galician wine region of Rias Baixas, Bodegas Terras Gauda has been producing crisp and fresh white wines using indigenous grape varieties since 1990. This is their classic white which is composed of Albarino, Caino and Loureiro grapes. Each component of the blend brings something different to the finished wine, with the Albarino adding intense aromas and volume, the Loureiro contributing floral notes and the Caino contributing structure and tropical fruit aromas. The Albarino and Caino are both grown at lower altitude and in warmer conditions which allows them to be harvested earlier with greater concentration of flavour and more body. The Loureiro comes from the estate’s highest vineyards which helps to mature the grapes more slowly and preserve more freshness. Each of the varieties is then macerated and fermented separately in stainless steel tanks with wild yeasts before the blending and bottling takes place. The first impression is one of great freshness and aromatic complexity with hints of nectarine, pineapple and white flowers. The first sip reveals a bright acidity complemented by mandarin, peach and mint flavours. The pure, crisp character of this white make it an excellent partner for oysters, crab or razor clams as well as spicy Asian dishes.
2020
White Wine Ca dei Frati Pratto Bianco 2020. The Dal Cero family have owned Ca dei Frati since 1939 when Felice Dal Cero recognised the potential of this exceptional estate near the southern shores of Lake Garda. The original property dates back to 1782, but over the past couple of decades the family have dedicated themselves to revitalising the estate and building a solid reputation for quality. They are now regarded as Lugana’s top producer and have grown the estate from just 12 hectares in 1987 to more than 160 hectares today. This delicious white is primarily composed of Turbiana, a local variety that is thought to be related to the Verdicchio grape, as well as smaller proportions of Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Grapes are sourced from estate vineyards in Sirmione and Desenzano del Garda where yields are kept low to ensure quality. The grapes are typically harvested late and fermented in stainless steel tanks. The Turbiana and Chardonnay lots are then matured in oak barrels for 14 months, followed by 6 months of ageing in the bottle for the final blend. Rose petals, pineapple and lychees characterise the nose while the palate reveals a bright streak of acidity, creamy texture and medium body. The bold flavour profile makes this a great gastronomic wine which can be paired with fish, roast chicken, creamy pasta dishes or cheeses.
2020