Carcharodon carcharias

[Saina Nieminen]

Sergio & Graziano Pr Soave Classico Monte Grande 2008
24; 13,5% abv; 80% Garganega & 20% Trebbiano di Soave; aged in large casks

This is among the bigger and more powerful Soaves that I have had, but gladly it doesn't seem to achieve that size and power because of oak influence. There is a touch of smokiness in the wine, but nothing else I would associate with oak, but this aroma coupled with a bready aroma makes me think more of lees ageing than oak. If it is oak, it is remarkably deftly applied since I don't mind the aroma. Crystallized lemons and minerals make up the rest of the scent (aromatically it reminds me a bit of Texier's Mcons). Big and powerful, but it does have quite a bite! Citric, mineral and refreshing finish. Quite endless. Tonight, at least, this felt like a great white.

Though since I don't remember any Soave fans here talk about this, am I to presume it's not quite a top producer? Oh well, it will do until Pieropan's Calvarino becomes available again.

 

[Thor]

"Diraspapigiatura, pressatura soffice, temperatura di fermentazione a 18 C, fermentazione e elevazione in botti grandi di rovere di Allier da 15 e 20 ettolitri"

Pr's a good producer.

 

[Saina Nieminen]

Good to hear that, Thor. But trying to translate Italian with only patchy knowledge of a related language is something I'm not sure I'm up to. What does it say? "De-stemmed(?), something pressed; temperature of fermentation 18; fermented and raised in big barrels from Allier of 15 & 20hl". But no mention of lees ageing?

 

[Thor]

They're being vague, but the usual implication of that phrasing is that the wood isn't new...which doesn't preclude it influencing what is, after all, a pretty light grape. As for the rest, you could just go to their site and explore for yourself.