Orvieto, Umbria, Italy
The dynamic Tenuta le Velette estate produces one of the Orvieto zone’s most complete and exciting portfolios. Orvieto is at its best when made from fruit grown on the tufaceous soils and bedrock found in the region’s Classico zone. Fashioned from a blend of Trebbiano (30%), Grechetto (30%), Malvasia Bianco (20%), Verdello (15%), and Drupeggio, the 2017 Berganorio casts a bright lemon-gold color from the glass, followed by aromas of kiwi, green plum, honeysuckle blossoms, raw almonds, and smoky soil. Crisp and brisk on the palate, the Berganorio conveys suggestions of lime zest, green apple, clover honey, and menthol. The wine finishes long, dry, and persistent, with further suggestions of citrus zest, nutmeg, and an appetizing hint of bitter almond skin. A terrific wine for shellfish, freshwater fish dishes, light poultry preparations, white pasta dishes, sauteed green vegetables, and fresh cheeses, enjoy the Berganorio now and through the coming two years.
An October 2018 newsletter selection