Pavan, Tai Bianco 2019

Pavan is a well-established winery in the Veneto region, renowned for producing expressive wines that showcase the unique character of indigenous grape varieties. Their Tai Bianco 2019 is a vibrant and well-balanced white wine made from the Tai Bianco (formerly Tocai Friulano) grape, a variety deeply rooted in the region’s winemaking tradition. Known for its delicate aromatics, crisp acidity, and distinctive almond finish, Tai Bianco is a versatile and food-friendly wine. The 2019 vintage experienced warm days and cool nights, allowing for slow, even ripening, which preserved freshness while enhancing flavour complexity.

Sourced from vineyards in the gently rolling hills of Veneto, the Tai Bianco vines thrive in alluvial and limestone-rich soils, which contribute to the wine’s minerality and structure. The nearby Adriatic Sea provides a cooling influence, helping to maintain aromatic intensity and crisp acidity. The wine is fermented in stainless steel tanks to preserve its pure fruit expression, followed by a short period of lees ageing, which adds a touch of texture and depth without overpowering its freshness.

Appearance: A brilliant pale straw yellow with delicate golden reflections, highlighting its freshness and subtle development. The wine has crystalline clarity, with a light shimmer that enhances its visual appeal. Swirling reveals a silky texture, with medium viscosity that hints at a well-rounded structure.

Aroma: A fragrant and inviting bouquet opens with aromas of white peach, pear, and golden apple, followed by hints of citrus blossom and wild herbs. Subtle floral notes of chamomile and acacia add complexity, while a touch of almond and crushed stone reflect the wine’s Venetian terroir.

Taste: Refreshing and well-structured, this wine delivers juicy orchard fruit flavours, including green pear, lemon zest, and white peach. The mid-palate offers a soft, rounded texture from lees ageing, providing a pleasant contrast to the crisp acidity. Subtle herbal notes of sage and thyme emerge, along with a signature almond-like bitterness that adds depth and complexity.

Finish: Clean, persistent, and lightly mineral, with lingering notes of citrus zest and a touch of saline freshness. The delicate almond finish, characteristic of Tai Bianco, leaves a refined and slightly nutty aftertaste, enhancing the wine’s overall elegance. The balance of fruit, acidity, and minerality creates a satisfying and refreshing final impression.

Food Pairing: Prosciutto e Melone is an ideal match, as the wine’s minerality and almond undertones enhance the sweetness of the melon while complementing the savoury richness of the prosciutto. Seafood risotto pairs beautifully, as the wine’s bright acidity cuts through the creaminess of the dish while highlighting its delicate maritime flavours.