Wine Pick of the Week: June 28, 2016

Famiglia Pasqua Passione e Sentimento Bianco 2014 (Italy)

We are in the thick of summer, and Italian wine is HOT--Pinot Grigio, Verdicchio, Prosecco. Many are reasonably priced and hit the spot with a little bite and bright flavors. Like this one...

What a nice summer sipper. Think “hot day” and drink this to refresh. It’s Famiglia Pasqua Passione e Sentimento Bianco 2014.

The grape, Garganega, is one of Italy’s oldest—dating to 500 AD—versatile, and most popular varietals. It can produce dry wines or sweet if holding the grapes for a late harvest.

This Bianco has a tangy nose with honey right away. The honey is very apparent upon tasting, followed by citrus and a little grapefruit; it goes slightly dry, then with a faint hint of almonds, finishes with a little lingering citrus. The wine is tangy and not too light-bodied, but lighter than a traditional Chardonnay. This is a "crowd pleaser" that is sweet enough and dry enough to hold everyone's attention.

It has complexity to stand on its own and, served thoroughly chilled, would be welcome poolside, at a picnic or on a deck for a hot afternoon treat. With food, serve with grilled chicken and Dijon mustard; baked apple desserts; plain cheesecake with almonds or lemon; jack cheese or something mild like brie or mild cheddar.