2017 Prà Soave Classico ‘Otto’

Region: Soave < Veneto < Italy
Grapes: Garganega
Vineyard/Cellar Stats: Organic farming, clay and basalt soils, fermented and aged on lees in stainless steel, 30 – 50 year old vines; minimal SO2 at bottling; 12.5% ABV
Winemaker: Graziano Prà  

Soave (at least the stuff that was imported to the US) used to be crap. In the 70’s and 80’s, it was the ubiquitous white wine that lined supermarket shelves and lubricated countless single bar hookups. In fact, Graziano Prà, one of the OG Soave producers, was among the first to bottle quality wine in the region known mostly for high production of neutral white plonk that was Italy’s shitty supermarket wine. Another rarity in the region, Graziano has farmed organically since the 1980’s, and as you drive through the Soave countryside, his vineyards stand out for their lush biodiversity and wild flowers that stud their hillsides. The Otto is a blend of all the different vineyards, including the famed Montegrande, Prà’s flagship. Its pristine fruit sources are evident on the palate, showing off the wide variety of flavors Soave offers up when done well – peach, tangerine, white flowers, almond and a bonus with the 2017 – this beautiful grapefruit-y acidity that livens up the palate and makes you want another glass. Perfect for spring peas, favas, and even wine-challenged foods, like asparagus.