Garganega

**Garganega** is a white grape from the Veneto in northeast Italy and the backbone of Soave, one of Italy's classic white wines. An ancient variety, it can range from simple and easygoing to remarkably refined. **In the glass** — pale straw to gold, with delicate aromas of white flowers, ripe pear, citrus and a signature note of bitter almond. The palate is medium-bodied with fresh acidity and a subtle, savoury texture that gains depth from good sites. **Where it grows** — Soave and Gambellara are its heartland, where volcanic soils and hillside vineyards give the finest, most mineral wines. It is also used, semi-dried, for sweet Recioto di Soave. **At the table** — pairs well with risotto, white fish, poultry and fresh cheeses. **Cellaring** — everyday versions drink young, but top single-vineyard Soave can age gracefully for a decade, deepening into honeyed, nutty complexity.

Wines

• Centofilari Bianco Garda — Cesari
• Le Lucere Biancolago — Tommasi
• Soave — Montresor
• Soave — Brigaldara
• Soave Classico — Bolla
• Soave Classico — Rocca Bastia