Cantine Prà "Otto" Soave Classico

From the email:

I have to admit, I completely geek out over volcanic soils. There is just something incredibly special about the energy and tension they bring to a glass of wine. That is exactly why I am so obsessed with what is happening in the historic heart of Soave right now.

If we rewind the clock, Soave was historically considered one of the absolute greatest white wines in Italy. The original vineyard area was confined to a series of steep, volcanic hillsides. But as global demand skyrocketed in the 1970s, the region expanded way beyond those original hills and down into the flat, fertile plains. Mass production took over, and Soave sadly gained a reputation for being a watered-down, neutral wine.

But the magic never actually left. You just have to look for the word "Classico" on the label. That designates the original, historic hillside zone where the soils are pure, dark volcanic basalt.

Graziano Prà is a true hero of this historic zone. His father and grandfather had farmed vineyards in these hills for generations, but they always sold their fruit to the local cooperative. In 1983, Graziano decided it was time to change the narrative. He stopped selling the family's grapes, started bottling his own wine, and set out to prove that the native Garganega grape could produce world-class, terroir-driven whites. He was an early pioneer of organic farming in the region and essentially paved the way for the modern Soave renaissance.

2025 Prà "Otto" Soave Classico

His 2025 Soave Classico is the perfect introduction to his brilliant farming. Fun fact: he actually named this specific bottle after his beloved border collie (soft spot here as I also have a border collie)!

In the glass, this vintage is incredibly vibrant. The nose jumps out with bright aromas of white peach, crisp green apple, jasmine flowers, and fresh citrus zest. Because of those extreme volcanic soils, the palate has this amazing, stony minerality that immediately makes your mouth water.

What you will really love about this wine is the sheer energy it brings to the glass. It is crisp, electric, and incredibly refreshing, wrapping up with a classic, savory note of crushed almonds that is the true hallmark of great Garganega. That beautiful balance makes it ridiculously versatile. It is the perfect pairing for a big bowl of seafood pasta, roasted chicken, or just drinking on the porch when you need something complex but effortless.

- Andrew, Head Sommelier of VDV Select