Giovanni Almondo 2022 Roero Arneis ‘Vigne Sparse’ Piemonte

A little Chablis in Italy? Yup!! Almondo’s Vigne Sparse is as close as it gets to the crushed minerals and on-the-vine citrus you find in quality Chablis.

The Almondo family has been living in the Roero since the 14^th century, with winemaking beginning in earnest around 1980. Since then, they have focused on pure varietal wines of pronounced aroma and complexity. The flagship, the ‘Bricco di Ciliegie’ comes from a section of vines cresting a hill called Vittori, endowed with a high level of limestone deposit. However, when I am looking for everyday excellence, the Vigne Sparse fits the bill perfectly. Considered an entry-level bottling, the “Sparse” is a bright, ultra-mineral driven and full of such exuberant acidity it almost dances off your tongue. The Almondo’s include a few hectars of old vines in this wine, giving it a much longer finish than expected. This is your oyster wine, your palate calibrator, and your pairing with sunshine and friends!

WINEMAKER: Domenico Almondo with his sons Federico & Stefano

VARIETAL: 100% Arneis

APPELLATION: Montà, Roero

REGION: Piemonte

IN THE VINEYARD: Certified Organic

IN THE WINERY: Aging in 100% stainless steel vats for 10 months

ABV%: 13.5

SERVE:  Serve cool in a white wine glass