A very straight-forward offer for you, but one that should appeal if you are looking for an interesting white with a point of difference.
Arneis is a lesser-known white grape variety grown in Piemonte, in north-western Italy. I would suggest that the vast majority of production lacks any real distinction, but it is a different story when produced by top estates like Vietti.
Arneis can be a tricky varietal to grow, hence its name in dialect, literally ‘little rascal’. It performs best on the lighter, sand-over-limestone soils of Roero on the northern bank of the river Tanaro opposite the town of Alba, and is therefore most often labelled as Roero Arneis. It prefers north-facing slopes, protected from the afternoon heat as these slopes encourage gradual ripening without the loss of either acidity or aromatics.
This isn’t an overly complex variety but if yields are restrained and if it is grown in the conditions detailed above, it offers plenty of interest, surprising quality and very good value for money and therefore enjoys a strong inter-office following! Already in our cellars at LCB Vinothèque, this is available for immediate delivery.
2018 Roero Arneis, Vietti
£95 per 6 bottle case in bond
Vietti ferment their Arneis at cool temperatures to preserve aromatic freshness and age the wine on its lees until the June after harvest when it is bottled. This decision builds a far greater complexity than is found in most examples. The 2018 reveals appealing ripe, juicy, greengage, peach even apricot with a certain almondy nuttiness. Perhaps a touch rounder than recent vintages, the warmth of the vintage has, however, not led to any loss of freshness as a bright acidity underscores the juicy peach and stone fruits with notes of green lime. A long, salty and mineral finish adds intrigue. This remains an impressive, if often overlooked wine, in the Vietti range. Drink now until 2020. (SL)
Please let us know of your interest.