2014 Stroblhof Pinot Bianco

Price: $22
Region: Alto Adige < Italy 
Grapes: Pinot Bianco (with a smidge each of Pinot Grigio and Chardonnay)
Vineyard/Cellar Stats: organic farming, quartz, granite, dolomite rock soils, 500m elevation, fermented in stainless steel, aged in large, neutral oak barrels for 6 months
Winemaker: Andreas Stroblhof

Hello, Thanksgiving white! This Pinot Bianco is full of stuffing, and in fact would pair beautifully with whichever version you’re dishing up this holiday. From Alto Adige, one of the most northerly regions in Italy, in the Alps (think Sound of Music) where the grapes reflect both Alpine and Mediterranean qualities. The region gets over 300 days of sun per year, which means grapes have no problem ripening, but to balance that you have the crisp mountain air, high elevation and cold nights. It borders Germany and Austria, and like these countries, the focus is on white wines – hence, Pinot Bianco, which can be bland, has great potential when grown here. To top things off, the Stroblhof property, which is farmed organically, has been devoted to grape growing and making wine since 1890, so they’ve got the quality program down. Lush on the palate yet mineral-focused, with white floral notes, peach and hit of spice that adds depth. The finish is ultra-long and this complexity lends itself to a wide range of dishes, making it an excellent choice for a holiday feast.