Spectacular Chardonnay from Italy (yes, Italy)
When I think of Chardonnay, I have to admit, Italy doesn't immediately leap to mind. Sure, there's plenty of Chardonnay produced in Italy, however. most are of dubious quality or priced at a point that rivals a good bottle from Burgundy or California. It was nice to recently taste an exception!
A small piece of Burgundy in Italy
Founded in 1980 by the Braggiotti family, the Tenuta Mazzolino winery is a true cultural melting pot. Their Turkish, French and Italian roots combine to form a complex tradition of viticulture and wine-making. The family estate stretches through the heart of the Oltrepò Pavese region in Lombardy. Thanks to the close proximity to the river Po, the vines enjoy a very favorable microclimate and the well-drained soil rich in clay and calcareous marl provides wonderful minerality. The soil structure here has been compared in some ways to parts of Barolo and Burgundy.
Natural and sustainable practices
"Camara" Chardonnay, Provincia di Pavia IGT, is a dry white wine made from 100% Chardonnay grown in the Camara sub region. The family's strong tradition of sustainable viticulture includes strong pruning with very low yields, and natural grass cover in the vineyards in order to eliminate the use of chemical fertilizers. At harvest, the grapes are entirely hand-picked to ensure perfect ripeness and they're transported in small baskets to preserve the integrity of the fruit.
Fresh and Balanced
The first thing you'll notice about this Chardonnay is the beautiful clean lift. There's ample richness, however, it's perfectly balanced by fresh, zippy acidity. In the glass, the golden straw color gives way to aromas of cut apples, peach, pear, and notes of white flowers. The palate expands the nuance of stone fruits and floral notes, while adding an underpinning of minerals.
Now that the weather has finally turned to fall, this Chardonnay will serve as a great transitional white to enjoy on the cooler days and nights of Fall.
If you're a fan of French Chardonnay, give this one a try, you'll love it!
Regular price here at the AWM: $15.99
Local Email Special: $13.59 by the solid or mixed case
Don't worry if you can't make it into the shop. Just phone with a credit card number and we'll hold your purchase in our cellar for pickup at your convenience.
828.253.0060