2023 Albino Armani Colle Ara Pinot Grigio, Veneto

From hillside vineyards in the Veneto, Albino Armani’s Colle Ara comes from higher, well exposed sites where cooler air and limestone rich soils help Pinot Grigio show more detail and structure. The Armani family has been working these regions for generations, with a focus on elevating everyday varieties into something more expressive and site driven.

The 2023 has a bit more depth than your typical Pinot Grigio. Aromatics lean toward pear, ripe apple and citrus peel, with a gentle floral lift and a hint of almond sitting underneath. It feels clean, but not simple.

On the palate there’s a nice interplay between freshness and texture. Orchard fruit carries through, but there’s a slight creaminess and weight that gives it more presence than expected. Acidity keeps everything in check, finishing dry with a subtle savoury note and a faint mineral edge.

This is a great one to push beyond the usual pairings. It works with seafood, grilled calamari or prawns, but also holds up to dishes like pumpkin ravioli with sage butter, or a fennel and orange salad with toasted almonds. Even a simple roast chicken with herbs feels right at home.

Drinking beautifully now while that balance of fruit and freshness is front and centre.