Wine by Varietal is a wine made primarily from a single named grape variety, and which typically displays the name of that variety on the wine label. Examples of grape varieties commonly used in varietal wines are Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Merlot. Wines that display the name of two or more varieties on their label, such as a Chardonnay-Viognier, are blends and not varietal wines. The term is frequently misused in place of vine variety; the term variety refers to the vine or grape while varietal refers to the wine produced by a variety.
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The name Alto Vento, which means ‘High Wind’ in Italian, refers to the high altitude vineyards where the grapes come from. Made with 100% Pinot Grigio, this wine has been crafted exclusively from grapes grown in vineyards within the delle Venezie DOC region, which is also known as the ideal region for Pinot Grigio. It has been produced by one of Mionetto’s long time grower partners; a traditional family owned producer of the past 400 years, so getting a wine of this character and authenticity at the price on offer, is an outstanding value. It is crafted and artisanal in nature, a high quality “boutique” Pinot Grigio has unique character and finesse.
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Harvest is conducted by hand and grapes are carefully sorted on tables and destemmed before being placed in stainless steel tanks for fermentation. Regular pumping-over ensure a gentle extraction of the tannins. After malolactic fermentation, 50% of the wine is transferred into French oak barrels for a period of 12 months, and 50% is placed in concrete vats. Deep velvety red color with intense ruby hues. Very fruity and fresh on the nose, followed by aromas of red fruit, strawberry and black currant. On the palate, the wine is long, well balanced and pleasant, with refined tannins and generous aromas of red berries.
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Beloved for flavorful red wines, Alba is an epicurean’s dream. The historic walled town at its heart is where growers from throughout the Piedmont region would once go to sell their produce to winemakers and négociants following the harvest, but today it is better recognized as one of Italy’s premiere culinary destinations. Sandwiched between Barolo and Barbaresco, the best vineyards, located atop sunny, south-facing hills, are planted with NebbioloBeloved for flavorful red wines, Alba is an epicurean’s dream. The historic walled town at its heart is where growers from throughout the Piedmont region would once go to sell their produce to winemakers and négociants following the harvest, but today it is better recognized as one of Italy’s premiere culinary destinations. Sandwiched between Barolo and Barbaresco, the best vineyards, located atop sunny, south-facing hills, are planted with Nebbiolo