Giovanni Almondo Roero Arneis Bricco delle Ciliegie 2016

Ideally drink now through 2019. Serve chilled.

Giovanni Almondo’s signature single-vineyard Arneis is planted high on a hilltop in the Roero region, on windy soils too cold for red grapes. However, the almost constant wind blowing from the nearby French Alps leads to a vibrant and refreshing Arneis that displays a straw yellow color, with aromas of peach, lemon zest, and white flowers. On the palate, this wine has a soft texture that balances out the lively acidity, with notes of crushed stone, lime, yogurt, and fresh herbs.
This Arneis is a beautiful aperitif wine: pair with shellfish, summer salads, or other light hors d’oeuvres such as an antipasto plate with fresh cheese.

Giovanni Almondo’s estate began as a farm growing apples, peaches, and strawberries, and selling some bulk wine on the side. However, Giovanni’s son Domenico saw the true potential of the estate as a leading producer of red and white wines from the region, and began producing estate bottled wines in 1981. The vineyard from which this Arneis comes, Bricco Delle Ciliegie, sits at an altitude of 360 meters, and is affected by the cool winds coming from the Northwest. The sandy soils and low rainfall lead to wines of intensity, always vibrant and refreshing. To help balance the acidity, this wine is fermented in 80% stainless steel tanks, and 20% in new oak barriques. Following fermentation, the wine is aged on the lees for 6 months to promote a softer texture.