2024 Pieropan Soave Classico, Veneto

Pieropan Soave Classico is a beautifully pure, expressive white wine that defines the benchmark for the region. Made from Garganega blended with a small proportion of Trebbiano di Soave, this wine comes from organically farmed, hillside vineyards in the heart of the Soave Classico zone. It’s unoaked, fresh and mineral, offering clarity, lift and a real sense of place — far removed from the industrial styles that once defined Soave in the broader market.

Grapes are hand-harvested and gently pressed, then fermented in glass-lined cement tanks with native yeasts. The wine is aged on lees for several months to build texture and complexity while preserving the crystalline expression of the fruit and the volcanic-limestone soils.

In the glass, it opens with aromas of white flowers, lemon zest, green apple, almond and crushed stone. The palate is dry, vibrant and polished, with flavours of citrus, pear and a chalky, mineral finish. It’s beautifully balanced — light in alcohol but full of energy and flavour.

Food pairing: excellent with grilled white fish, fresh shellfish, vegetable risottos, sushi or goat cheese salad. Also ideal as an aperitif with marinated olives or anchovy crostini.

Cellar potential: best enjoyed young for its freshness, but will develop more complexity over 3 to 5 years.