1. Tenuta Saiano "Trebbiamo?" 2022 (shown below!)
Tenuta Saiano's "Trebbiamo?" is a sophisticated/cool skin-contact wine with layers of complexity and intrigue. This is the kind of wine that makes me feel like a real adult with taste! Skin contact, sometimes referred to as "orange wine" making, is a process where the grape skins are left in contact with the juice for an extended period during fermentation. This technique, traditionally used for red wines, imparts additional color, texture, and flavor to white wines, resulting in a wine that is more robust and layered than a typical white.
In the case of "Trebbiamo?," the skin contact gives the wine a deeper, amber hue and introduces notes of dried apricot, tea, and subtle tannins that you wouldn't find in a conventional Trebbiano. The wine retains its bright citrus and apple flavors, but the skin contact brings in earthy undertones and a pleasant grip on the palate, making it both refreshing and complex. The tannins from the skins also give it a structure that pairs well with a variety of foods, particularly those with a bit of richness or spice.
This wine is a great example of how traditional methods can be reimagined to create something truly unique. Whether you're new to skin-contact wines or a seasoned fan, "Trebbiamo?" offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the depth and versatility that this winemaking style can bring to the table. So, enjoy this bold and lively wine with your favorite dishes, or simply savor it on its own as a conversation piece—it's sure to impress either way. Serve chilled and pair with grilled seafood, roasted chicken with herbs, a spicy curry dish or an autumnal salad with butternut squash!
- Producer: Tenuta Saiano
- Region: Emilia Romagna, Italy
- Varieties: 100% Trebbiano
- Alcohol: 13.5%
2. Marco Barba "Barbabianca" Still White Wine (shown below!)
Barbabianca is a still white wine that hails from vineyards dedicated exclusively to biodynamic practices, where interventions are kept to a minimum, allowing nature to work its magic. This wine embodies the essence of the land it comes from.
Crafted from a blend of white grape varieties native to the region, some familiar and others less known, Barbabianca undergoes a natural fermentation process using the yeasts naturally present in the vineyard. It matures for a minimum of 6 months in concrete tanks, maintaining its connection to its fermentation roots. The best part? It's bottled unfiltered, with just a touch of sulfur added.
In the eyes of Marco and the Barbaboyz, Barbabianca is all about easy-drinking pleasure. It's the ideal companion for leisurely aperitifs or convivial seafood feasts with friends. Picture pairing it with delectable gratinated scallops or a plate of pasta adorned with a savory sardine sauce.
Barbabianca captures the spirit of 'beva,' which in Italian means 'easy drink,' making it the perfect choice for laid-back moments and memorable gatherings! Salute!
- Producer: Marco Barba
- Varieties: Various regional varieties
- Region: Gambellara, Italy
- Alcohol: 11.5%
3. Delinquente "Screaming Betty" Vermentino (shown below!)
Delinquente's "Screaming Betty" Vermentino is a refreshing and vibrant white wine that captures the spirit of Australian winemaking with a twist of Mediterranean flair. Sourced from the Riverland region of South Australia, this wine is crafted from the Vermentino grape, a variety originally from Italy's coastal regions, known for its crisp acidity and fresh, zesty character.
In the glass, Screaming Betty shimmers with a pale straw-yellow hue, inviting you to explore its lively and aromatic profile. On the nose, you'll encounter a delightful bouquet of citrus fruits—think lemon zest, lime, and grapefruit—interwoven with hints of green apple, pear, and a subtle touch of sea breeze minerality. There's also a delicate floral note, reminiscent of white blossoms, that adds a layer of elegance to the aroma.
On the palate, Screaming Betty is light to medium-bodied, with a crisp and refreshing acidity that makes it incredibly drinkable. The citrus and green fruit flavors carry through, accompanied by a slight saline quality that reflects the influence of the nearby ocean. The wine's texture is smooth, with a clean, dry finish that leaves you with a lingering impression of citrus zest and a hint of almond.
This Vermentino is perfect for warm weather sipping and pairs beautifully with a variety of light dishes. Whether you're enjoying fresh seafood, salads, or Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, Screaming Betty is a versatile companion that enhances the flavors of your meal without overpowering them.
What makes Screaming Betty stand out is not just its vibrant flavor profile, but also the attitude and ethos behind Delinquente's winemaking. The winery is known for its fun, rebellious approach, producing wines that are unpretentious, full of character, and always a bit outside the box. Screaming Betty embodies this spirit, offering a wine that is as bold and lively as it is refreshing!
- Producer: Delinquente Wine Co.
- Region: Riverland, Australia
- Variety: Vermentino
- Alcohol: 12%
4. Subject to Change "Chill Pill" 2022 (shown below!)
Subject to Change’s “Chill Pill” 2022 is a delightful and refreshing expression of Chenin Blanc, a grape variety that’s beloved for its versatility and vibrant acidity. Hailing from California’s organic vineyards, this wine is all about embracing the natural side of winemaking—produced with minimal intervention and showcasing the pure, unadulterated flavors of the grapes.
“Chill Pill” pours a pale, golden hue and offers aromas of crisp apples, pears, and a touch of honey. On the palate, it’s a lively experience with flavors of juicy stone fruits like peach and apricot, balanced by a zesty citrus edge and a hint of minerality that keeps things refreshing and vibrant.
This wine’s playful name perfectly reflects its easygoing nature—ideal for those moments when you just want to unwind. Whether you're sipping it by the beach, at a picnic, or with a light meal, “Chill Pill” is a versatile companion that doesn’t demand too much attention but certainly rewards it.
Light, fresh, and oh-so-drinkable, the 2022 “Chill Pill” is best enjoyed slightly chilled, letting the wine’s natural brightness and acidity shine through. It’s a wine that embodies the laid-back, carefree spirit of California while delivering a seriously enjoyable drinking experience. So, pop a bottle, take a sip, and let the chill vibes wash over you. Cheers!
- Producer: Subject to Change
- Region: Redwood Valley, California
- Variety: Chenin Blanc
- Alcohol: 11.9%