Guerrieri Rizzardi "Costeggiola" Soave Classico 2021

Tasting Notes

When you taste a prime example of Soave like this from one of the best producers in the Classico region, it is hard to know why Soave isn’t more widely consumed. Soave Classico means that yields are controlled and that there is more of a focus on quality than on quantity. Costeggiola is a single vineyard from which the grapes in this wine have been manually picked and which, since the 2019 vintage has officially been one of Soave’s Crus, meaning that it is one of the best vineyards based on its history, soils and climate. It is a prime hillside location with volcanic soil, two attributes that aid structure and complexity of flavours. Garganega is the main grape variety of the blend at 92% – it must be a minimum 70% for Classico DOP status – and where yields are controlled, it produces delicate, light-bodied wines; 8% Chardonnay is added to give a little weight and structure resulting in a medium to full-bodied wine.

The wine has a subtle but complex perfume of ripe fruits – apricots, white peach and pears – with a touch of honey and floral notes. And yet, despite the rich aromas, there is also minerality evident on the nose. Once you take a sip you will be struck by the silky texture and medium to full body of the wine. The apricot, pear and peach theme continues on the palate with citrus fruits, almonds and a warming touch of spice counter-balanced by the dry, crisp acidity. The fruity and mineral finish is very long. I classify this lovely dry white wine as an Aromatic White because of the complexity of the aromas and flavours; however its minerality and the crisp acidity create good balance with the concentrated fruit and makes the wine refreshing.

Don’t serve this wine too cold so that you can appreciate the range and depth of flavours and aromas.