Pieropan Soave Classico 2024

Michaels thoughts - Without question, Pieropan is the most important producer in the Veneto sub-region of Soave. Located due East of Verona, the region of Soave is categorised by 2 distinct topographical zones, the foothills to the north and the flat plain to the south. In the foothills the vineyards are located on the slopes with limestone, clay and the BEST sites have volcanic rock. Historically all vines were trained on the pergola system, which is still widely used in the north whereas the southern sites have been converted to modern trellis systems. The quality of the white wines made in Soave can vary widely - Pieropan represents the pinnacle of production quality.

Pieropan is a 4th Generation, family owned estate that was founded in the 1880's. The yields are cropped at only two-thirds of the legally permitted 105 hL/ha, pursuing more power and concentration in the fruit expression of the final wine. The Soave Classico is a blend of 85% Garganega (the unique variety of the region) and 15% Trebbiano di Soave (local name for Verdicchio). Brother Andrea (Viticulture) & Dario (Winemaking) have built upon the reputation established through the late 20th century to make Pieropan a powerhouse that has become many wine drinkers entry point into Soave.Low intervention cellar techniques, low-temperature fermentation in neutral cement tanks (to maintain maximum aromatics) and a short elevage on fine lees (7ish months) to help enhance texture and phenolic development.   Michael Morgan