Three Must try Whites for 2020

When it comes to the world of whites, I have fallen for Italy.  Most people think of Pinot Grigio when it comes to the Etruscan Peninsula but there is so much more.  Unique white varietals exist from north to south.  Here are three world-class whites that can be had for less than $30.

The Satta 2016 Costa di Giulia Bolgheri Bianco is a great place to start.  This wine was once made from 100% Vermentino.  Though the grape name is unappealing, I assure you that it is perfect in a lighter-bodied, fresh style.   It was blended with 30% Sauvignon Blanc which adds body and punch.  It’s a wine that hits with apricot and peach on the front palate then almond and vanilla on the finish.

The Mastroberardino 2017 Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio is another great Italian white from the slopes of Mount Vesuvius.  Translated as “the tears of Christ,” this wine has a lot to live up to and it certainly gives a sense of place and terroir with its presence on volcanic soil.  Vine roots struggle to get down to the water which creates astonishing minerality and complexity.  The varietal is 100% Coda di Volpe and it is as food friendly as a wine can be.

I am partial to a white from the Soave region as it was the wine I celebrated with when the Winnipeg Jets beat Nashville in game 7 of the NHL playoffs a few years back.  The Sartori 2017 Marani Bianco Veronese is a white version of Amarone.  Grapes are raisinated on straw mats after harvest and then pressed to make a more concentrated and full-bodied wine.  The grape is Garganega and this wine gives an opulent combination of pear and peach flavours mired in honey. The hint of oak is in perfect balance and calmed me during a stressful third period.

These wines are all available locally and can be found by using the Liquor Connect website at www.liquorconnect.com.