2021-C Dama del Rovere 'Biancodama' Bianco, Veneto, Italy (750ml)   

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A Monthly Wine Club Selection
The Pra family owns and works in one of the highest-altitude wine cellars in Veneto, locat-ed at 1,500 feet above sea level. From its perch, tucked away in the Lessini hills, Dama del Rovere sets itself apart from the masses of Soave producers with its high-altitude vineyards, which yield notably vibrant, character-rich white wines. The vineyards are plant-ed on the slopes of Monte Calvarina, an inactive volcano. The soils (primarily volcanic) are rich in minerals and ideal for the cultivation of native white grapes Garganega and Durella, which account for the majority of the vines. Winemaker Massimo Pra and his brother, Davide are fourth generation winegrowers; and the winery name Dama del Rovere is a shortening of their names: Davide and Massimo “Dama,” which also means lady—and a reference to the votive Madonna carved into an oak tree—or “rovere”—located in the family’s vineyard.

The Pra family practices sustainable farming, avoiding pesticides and herbicides whenever possible. Harvest is done by hand and because of the altitude, starts much later than the lower-land vineyards. When most Soave vineyards have finished harvest, they are just getting started. This unique blend of 80% Trebbiano and 20% Riesling is from one of the highest plots just outside the Soave Classico appellation boundaries, in a località (local area) called Brenton di Roncà. The vines range in age between 10 and 50-years-old. Ažter harvest, the grapes were destemmed and pressed; fermented on indigenous yeasts in temperature-controlled, stainless-steel tanks, and subsequently aged in tank on fine lees.

Pale golden yellow. Charming floral aromas of lemon blossoms and fresh citrus zest. The palate is fresh and light, with bright flavors of Meyer lemon, white nectarine and yellow apple. Graceful, yet structured with a beautiful texture and plenty of minerality through the long, mouthwatering finish.