2024 Antinori Castello della Sala Cervaro Della Sala, Umbria

Cervaro della Sala is one of Italy's most celebrated white wines, a benchmark that redefined what Italian Chardonnay could achieve on the world stage. Crafted at Castello della Sala, Antinori's magnificent medieval estate in the hills of Umbria, it combines the family's centuries of winemaking experience with an uncompromising commitment to quality. Named after the Monaldeschi della Cervara family, who once owned the castle, Cervaro has become an icon of Italian fine wine.

The vineyards sit at 220 to 470 metres above sea level, where cool nights preserve freshness and aromatic intensity while warm days ensure full flavour development. Chardonnay forms the heart of the blend, complemented by a small proportion of Grechetto, bringing extra texture and a distinctive Umbrian character. Fermentation and maturation in French oak barrels, followed by extended bottle ageing, create a wine of remarkable complexity, precision and longevity.

The colour is a luminous straw gold with pale green highlights. Aromas of white peach, ripe grapefruit and preserved lemon are layered with acacia blossom, hazelnut, vanilla bean and subtle smoky flint. The palate is rich yet impeccably balanced, combining generous stone fruit and citrus with creamy texture, fine oak integration and vibrant acidity. A mineral thread carries through to a long, graceful finish with lingering notes of toasted almond, spice and citrus zest.

Magnificent with butter poached lobster, roast chicken with morels, veal saltimbocca, handmade porcini risotto or aged Parmigiano Reggiano. Equally rewarding now or after ten to fifteen years in the cellar, where it will continue to gain depth, harmony and complexity.