Fontanafredda ‘Val di Tana’ Roero Arneis DOCG 2022
Grape Varietal: 100% Arneis
Growing Region: Roero Hills, Piedmont - Italy
Technical Director / Winemaker: Giorgio Lavagna
Last year in June 2023, I had the pleasure to spend some quality time with Giorgio and the team at the winery in Alba. The Fontanafredda winery was founded in 1858, and since this time has been a passionate voice for the quality and character of this dynamic wine region. Along with embracing sustainable long-term farming practices in the Langhe region of Piedmont. Lead by the visionary entrepreneur Oscar Farinetti, Fontanafredda has a dynamic range of wines that look to showcase the depth and diversity of the Langhe region, produced from expressive native grapes.
This wine is crafted from Arneis grapes grown on the gentle slopes of the Roero hills. After respectful temperature-controlled vinification in stainless steel tanks, this white wine was rested in stainless steel tanks and in contact with its fine lees, until the spring following the harvest, then the wine was tasted, bottled and rested for a few months before release.
★ In the glass you are greeted by a vibrant straw yellow colour with a lime hue. The nose you have an inviting aroma of ripe citrus fruits, nashi pear, apple, wild white flowers, honeysuckle and a hint of blanched almonds. On the palate this Arneis has a delicate but noticeable landing of all of these flavours along with a silky textural nuance and a fine mineral seam. All focused forward by its varietal acidity that keeps it upbeat and dynamic for the tastebuds and finishing with a classic dry finish.
This 2022 Fontanafredda ‘Val di Tana’ Roero Arneis DOCG has 13% Alc./vol. Classic Dry Style. Chill gently and serve in an appropriately shaped aromatic wine glass at 8°- 9°C. *NZ$44.99
CELLARING POTENTIAL: *(Review 17/11/24)
Drinking perfectly well this season: plus, should age nicely for another 2 - 3 years.
FOOD PAIRING SUGGESTIONS:
Perfect wine pairing with shellfish, simply prepared calamari, classic Caesar salads, freshly made seafood risotto with a light dusting of shaved parmesan, a vegetarian, lemon & herb tagliatelle plus young white cheeses - enjoy.