2008 Araldica "La Luciana" Gavi Piedmont Italy

2008 Araldica "La Luciana" Gavi Piedmont Italy
Suggested retail price $10-$12
Distributed by VIAS Imports in NYC

A DOC since 1974 and a DOCG since 1998, Gavi is an appellation surrounding the village of the same name and expands to 11 villages in total, located in the southern part of Piedmont (northwestern Italy). Gavi produces mainly two whites Gavi and Cortese di Gavi, both made primarily with the Cortese grape.

Gavi was one of the most fashionable Italian whites until about ten years ago and some now well established brands, like "La Scolca" became one of the benchmark. A Spumante is also available but less well known. Gavi di Gavi (like La Scolca) is a label term only authorized for the producers who own vineyards in the village of Gavi.

In Italy and in the US, for years, Gavi was Italy's standard white. Over the last decade, the US market have seen an increased on other Italian white wines made with more interesting and intriguing white grapes than Cortese, like: Falanghina, Greco, Vernaccia, Malvaisia, Passerina, Trebbiano, Verdicchio, Arneis, Fiano, Garganega, Moscato, Vermentino, Pinot Bianco and the now so famously common Pinot Grigio (and these are just some of Italy's major white grapes, there are quite a few more). However, let's get back to our Cortese based white.

Light to medium-bodied, Gavi usually presents a straw color and a golden apple mild aroma, and zesty character, very characteristic of the Cortese grape. It is high in acidity and presents floral and fruity, persistent flavors, with a dry and balanced palate. Gavi pairs very well with fish. It is best drunk young and usually reaches its peak after a about a year or two. The best Gavi(s) reveal great minerality and honey aromas, and can age a bit longer.

Araldica is a well-run co-operative which offers a rather more interesting family run company feeling, quality and consistency. For more info, go to their website at www.AraldicaVini.com

2008 Araldica "La Luciana" Gavi Piedmont Italy is clean, fresh and really inviting on the nose (and on the palate), with floral, green apple, touch of pear and citrus aromas. Very crisp mouthfeel, vivid and very enjoyable, with a good fruit richness and concentration. Zesty citrus fruit characters in the mid-palate with racy acidity and bright mineral notes. The finish is fairly long and clean. A delightful summery wine to enjoy as an aperitif, fresh vegetable or fruit salads. Somewhat ideal when combined with melon and Parma ham in the middle of a warm afternoon.

Enjoy!

LeDom du Vin

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