2025 Corzano e Paterno Toscana Bianco Il Corzanello, Tuscany

Corzano e Paterno is one of those Tuscan estates where wine is only part of the story. In the hills of San Casciano in Val di Pesa, south of Florence, Swiss architect Wendelin Gelpke began restoring the old farm in the late 1960s. Today his family continues the work among vineyards, olive groves and pastures, producing wine alongside the estate’s excellent sheep’s milk cheeses. Il Corzanello Bianco is the bright, uncomplicated face of the property.

The vineyards sit at elevation in the Chianti hills, where warm Tuscan sunshine is tempered by cooler nights. Il Corzanello is made for freshness rather than weight, with aromatic fruit, lively acidity and just enough texture to make it interesting at the table. The 2025 has a lovely youthful energy, sitting comfortably between aperitivo and a proper seafood lunch.

Pale straw with green highlights. White peach, Nashi pear and lemon lead into grapefruit and delicate blossom, followed by fresh fennel and a touch of almond. The palate is dry and juicy, with orchard fruit through the middle and crisp citrus acidity keeping everything lively. Lemon peel, pear and a gentle savoury note shape the clean, refreshing finish.

Zucchini flowers stuffed with ricotta and herbs are almost compulsory, especially fried until crisp and served with lemon. Grilled prawns, spaghetti alle vongole, sea bass with fennel or a simple plate of pecorino, pear and toasted almonds can happily follow. Cellaring: Drink now to 2029.