Balestri Valda Soave Classico

Pairs with: Seafood risotto, grilled branzino, spicy Asian dishes, or a fresh summer plate of Burrata and heirloom tomatoes

Good for: Expanding your palate beyond Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio with a gorgeous, character-driven Italian white

Grape: 100% Garganega

I am from: Soave Classico, Veneto, Italy

The Story: Winemaker Guido Rizzotto and his daughter Laura run this estate, taking it to the absolute peak of quality in the region by converting to organic and biodynamic farming. Their vines are planted on the steep, ancient hillsides of the historic "Classico" zone, where the soil is a fascinating mix of dark volcanic basalt and white limestone. Laura even keeps bees on the estate to create a complete ecosystem of pollination.

Why You'll Love Me: It is an incredibly expressive, elegant white that perfectly showcases its unique terroir. You'll find generous, pretty aromas of white peach, honeysuckle, and a touch of wild honey and beeswax. On the palate, the ripe, luscious stone fruit flavors are flawlessly balanced by a crisp acidity and a deep, mouthwatering saline minerality that lingers on a long, graceful finish.