Wednesday, May 15, 2024

Fattoria di Vaira Vincenzo Bianco, brimming with the promise of juicy goodness

Fattoria di Vaira Vincenzo Bianco 2021, 12.0% ABV

RRP: €20.95. Stockists: Le Caveau, 64 Wine, Greenman Wines, Bradleys Cork



Brimming with the promise of juicy goodness


Our blend in hand, which is organic, is dry and aromatic with a cloudy golden hue, brimming with the promise of juicy goodness.  On the nose, it's a delightful dance of white flowers, apricot, and peach, with a touch of pine and herbal intrigue. The palate is surprisingly dry and refreshingly herbaceous, with hints of orange peeking through. Light tannins and lively acidity keep it balanced and ensure a crisp,

clean finish.


Rounded and full of golden juice, this is Very Highly Recommended.


Native grapes are a constant part of this series on Italian wines. The focus here is mostly on Fiano. This ancient grape was revived by Alberto Mastroberdino and went on to thrive from his first vintage in 1945, a vintage that yielded a total of 30 bottles!  It is a key part of this organic Vincenzo blend.


The Fiano is whole-bunch pressed after a maceration of a few days on skins, and it is then combined with some direct press Trebbiano. There is abundance of Trebbiano grapes found across Italy; it is common in blends but monovarietal bottlings are very rare.


Vincenzo hails from Fattoria di Vaira, a sprawling biodynamic estate nestled in the Molise hills of Italy. This 500-hectare haven boasts breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and cultivates not just grapes, but also vegetables, grains, and even produces its own cheese, olive oil, and honey. Imagine the symphony of flavours enjoyed by the "shepherds, farmers, cheese makers, and vignerons" who work in harmony on this idyllic farm!


Vincenzo's few days of skin contact make it a versatile player at the table. Think lighter meats, cheeses, and first courses, or get creative with a pear and walnut salad or a Caprese with shrimp and asparagus. And while the pairing suggestion of an Irish summer might be a touch optimistic, this sunshine in a bottle is sure to brighten any day.


* This post is part of a series of Italian wines that are produced by usually small or medium-sized wineries, are organic and made from native grapes. Taking some “guidance” here from the recently published VINO. Mightn’t always net the hat trick but hope to score two from the three each time. I have quite a few lined up but I’m happy to consider any suggestions or help. #OrganicItaly


No comments: