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Summer Whites from Italy


 
Life has not been lived entirely through Rosé colored wine glasses this summer. I have also been pouring a variety of reasonably priced lighter Italian white wines as well. In addition to being fairly wallet sensitive and easy to find, they are refreshing and food friendly, making each of these perfect for summer sipping.


2011 Bolla Soave Classico 883 Selection
I received this as a media sample but I would purchase it again. It is easy to find, it is affordable at under $10 and it is a versatile wine to keep on hand. Floral aromas of honeysuckle with lemongrass and a fresh citrus flavor. Dry, light to medium body, medium+ acidity and a mineral laced finish. I served this as a poolside aperitif before a casual early weekend supper with my brother's family where it was well received.


 2009 Tommasi il grigio Ramato Pinot Grigio 
This wine was purchased for approximately $15 at Spec's. While this wine is made from the familiar Pinot Grigio grape, in this particular wine, the juice was left in contact with the skins, as in red wine production, for 36 hours resulting in a coppery-orange colored different style of Pinot Grigio more similar to a rosé wine. Pronounced aromas and flavors of citrus, apples and berries. Dry, medium body, medium acidity with a smooth fruity finish.  I served this with an easy dinner of take-out rotisserie chicken, tossed salad and rosemary bread. 



2011 Fontana Candida Frascati Superiore Secco
This wine comes from the Frascati DOC near Rome. I think I purchased this for approximately $10 at Whole Foods. Aromas and flavors of lemon and almond with a light citrus blossom floral note. Dry, light body, medium+ acidity with a slightly nutty finish. I served this wine with grilled shrimp and rice pilaf. An easy wine with an easy meal, very nice.






2012 Banfi Centine Toscana IGT  
I received this as a media sample but it is also easy to find at approximately $12. This wine is sourced from southern Tuscany and is a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio. It had aromas and flavors of grapefruit and pear with a light herbal note. Dry, medium body and acidity with a soft fruity finish. I served this with grilled chicken breasts and vegetables.
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