Bertani Sereole Soave 2021

Introduction

Bertani Sereole Soave Classico is a highly regarded white wine from Italy, produced in the Veneto region, specifically within the Soave Classico D.O.C. (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) appellation. The wine is a single-vineyard expression, sourced exclusively from the Sereole vineyard, which is considered a cru site located between the municipalities of Soave and Monteforte d'Alpone. Bertani, the producer, is a pillar of viticulture in Veneto, renowned for skillfully combining traditional methods with modern techniques.

Wine Description

The wine has an intense straw-yellow colour, often with golden or greenish reflections.

• Grape Variety: 100% Garganega. Garganega is the most elegant local white vine from Verona.

• Aromatic Profile: The appealing nose offers a rich bouquet of citrus (lime, lemon), white flowers (broom blossoms, elderflower), white-fleshed fruit (melon, apple, pear), and a hint of apricot or pineapple. There is also a subtle, characteristic mineral lift.

• Body and Palate: It is a medium-bodied wine that is dry, clean, fleshy, and well-balanced. The palate is often described as caressing and complex, combining fruit sweetness (honeydew, stone fruit) with a lovely creamy note.

• Vinification and Aging: Unusually for Soave, this wine is typically lightly oaked. The wine is fermented and aged on the lees for 4–6 months in large French oak vats (or barrels). This maturation adds softness, complexity, and creaminess to the texture.

• Structure: The acidity is crisp, lively, and refreshing. The characteristic marl-limestone soil of the Sereole vineyard contributes a sapid (savoury) and mineral edge that exalts the structure.

• ABV: Typically around 12.0% to 13.0%.

• Optimal Drinking: Best enjoyed young to benefit from its freshness, though it has good aging potential.

Accolades

• WineAlign (John Szabo) - 90 points (2023 vintage)

• Natalie MacLean - 90 points (2023 vintage)

• James Suckling - 90 points (2023 vintage)

Food Pairing

This sophisticated, dry, and mineral-driven white wine is very versatile. Suggested pairings include:

• Appetizers and Seafood: Light appetizers, hors d'oeuvres, shellfish, and warm fish appetizers.

• Pasta and Mains: Pasta with light sauces, pasta with seafood, or risottos with vegetables.

• Meat: White meat (e.g., roast chicken, baked mushroom stuffed quail).