2023 Bericanto Pinot Grigio DOC, Veneto

Bericanto captures the easy-going charm of north-eastern Italy, producing wines with bright fruit, freshness and an unmistakably Italian sense of drinkability. This Pinot Grigio comes from Veneto, where warm Adriatic influences meet cooler air descending from the Alps, helping the grapes retain acidity while developing delicate orchard-fruit and floral aromas. It’s exactly what good Veneto Pinot Grigio should be — crisp, uncomplicated and dangerously easy to pour.

The 2023 vintage brought generous fruit while the region’s cooler nights helped maintain freshness. Gentle winemaking keeps everything clean and lively, favouring citrus and crunchy fruit over weight or oak. The result is a dry, refreshing white made for drinking young and preferably with something salty within arm’s reach.

Pale straw with flashes of green, the nose opens with nashi pear, green apple and lemon alongside white peach and delicate blossom. The palate is crisp and light on its feet, with crunchy pear and apple carried by bright citrus acidity. A little lemon peel and fresh almond add savoury interest before a clean, dry finish with a subtle mineral snap.

This is aperitivo territory: salt-and-pepper calamari, grilled prawns with lemon, prosciutto and melon, zucchini flowers, spaghetti alle vongole or a bowl of Parmesan fries. 

Cellaring: Drink now to 2028.