| Whats in this wine? Its a small production of estate-bottled 100 percent Pinot Grigio crafted by winemaker Fabrizio Gatto. Where are the grapes grown? All the grapes in this wine are grown in the 17-acre family-owned Maso Canali Vineyard 30 kilometers south of Trentino in northeastern Italy, where winemaking dates back to the 6th century BC. This vineyard is 500 years old, although Pinot Grigio was not planted here until 1893. The vineyard is 500 meters below sea level in the village of Mori, south of Trento as you travel toward beautiful Lake Garda. Because it is below sea level, the soil has a mineral concentration, which adds character to the wine. Is 2000 a good vintage? This is a very good year, comparable to the renowned 1997 vintage. The summer days were very hot but the nights were very cool. Maturation of the grapes was later than usual, and hand harvesting took place at the end of September. How was the wine made? Winemaker Fabrizio Gatto uses riper grapes than usual, which ultimately produces a color quality more golden than most Pinot Grigio wines. The crush took place at the end of September, and the juice was immediately separated from the bluish-gray skins to avoid coloring the wine. Fermentation was in small stainless steel tanks at 71 degrees F. The wine was allowed to rest on the lees for four months and was filtered just before bottling. What does this wine taste like? A well-rounded body with floral aromas and ripe fruit flavors, mineral characteristics, hints of wood and well-balanced acidity. A long, smooth finish. What foods go well with it? Its a great match with any seafood, grilled vegetables, nuts, chicken, quail, light cheeses, pizza, focaccia, pasta carbonara, pasta primavera and vegetable lasagna. |
