2021 Pieropan Soave Classico Calvarino DOC, Veneto

According to Andrea Pieropan, the 2021 vintage was ‘dry and warm at the end of the season. The grapes lost weight due to the evaporation.’ Although production was down 10%, the parameters are not bad for a white wine: 6.1g/l total acidity and 3.22pH. A smorgasbord of aromas ranges from camomile to apricot, acacia flowers, fern, candied cedar and elderberry. Light, zesty and balanced by refined weight on the palate, it lasts in the mouth with a savoury aftertaste.

94 points Aldo Fiorelli decanter.com

This is an intensely flavorful and layered white with aromas of acacia honey, salted lemons, white rosemary, thyme, white pears and white pepper. Medium-bodied, sleek and concentrated, with a wild-herb edge to the fresh fruit. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.

The Calvarino vineyard is in the heart of the Soave Classico zone and represents the core of the ancient family estate, bought at the beginning of 1900. The soil here dates back to the tertiary era and is rich in clay and tufaceous basalt which give the wine an attractive savoury, mineral quality.

The name ‘Calvarino’ derives from ‘Little Calvary’ reflecting how difficult the soil is to work and the tortuous path which winds from top to bottom.

The label was first released in 1971 and is symbolic of the most traditional, most characteristic wine from the Soave area.Garganega: 70%, Trebbiano di Soave: 30%

Pale straw yellow, with greenish reflections when young; golden with ageing; the aroma is fresh, flowery with aromas of elder, lemon and cherry; the palate is dry, well balanced and elegant, with tremendous length and finesse; It makes an excellent aperitif and partners a wide range of dishes, especially vegetable quiches, delicately-flavoured fish, shellfish and cheese soufflés.