Castello del Terriccio, Con Vento 2022 (Viogner, Sauvignon Blanc)

Castello del Terriccio, one of Tuscany's largest agricultural estates, is renowned for its exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region. The estate spans approximately 1,700 hectares, extending from the northern end of the Maremma to the Tyrrhenian Sea. The vineyards benefit from a south-southwest exposure, with the Mediterranean maquis and eucalyptus trees imparting distinctive aromas to the grapes. Con Vento, first produced in 1985, is a harmonious blend of Viognier and Sauvignon Blanc. The name "Con Vento" is a play on words, meaning both "convent" and "with the wind," reflecting the estate's history and the breezy conditions of the vineyards. The 2022 vintage was fermented and aged in stainless steel tanks to preserve its fresh and aromatic character.

Appearance: In the glass, Con Vento 2022 presents a bright straw-yellow hue with delicate golden highlights, reflecting the ripeness of the Viognier and the freshness of the Sauvignon Blanc. Its clarity and brilliance suggest careful vinification, with a light viscosity visible when swirled. The wine’s luminous, almost crystalline quality showcases its youthful vibrancy, while the slight golden tinge hints at its aromatic richness.

Aroma: The nose is greeted with an aromatic bouquet of dried apricots, ripe peaches, and yellow exotic fruits like mango. Floral notes of acacia and freesia intertwine with hints of hay flower, white pepper, and tarragon, creating a complex and inviting profile. Subtle mineral undertones and a whisper of citrus zest add depth and refinement, enhancing the wine’s freshness.

Taste: On the palate, the wine is fresh and invigorating, with a fine, salty vein that adds to its complexity. Delicately tart flavours of grapefruit, lime zest, and bright stone fruits are complemented by nuances of almonds, providing a harmonious balance between fruitiness and minerality. A touch of honeyed richness from the Viognier rounds out the texture, lending a soft, slightly creamy mid-palate before the Sauvignon Blanc’s zesty acidity brings a crisp, refreshing lift.

Finish: The finish is clean and refreshing, with lingering notes of citrus and a subtle almond bitterness that invites another sip. The wine’s vibrant acidity and mineral undertones ensure a satisfying and prolonged conclusion, while a delicate floral echo lingers on the palate, leaving a lasting impression of elegance and finesse.

Food Pairing: Con Vento 2022 pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. It complements fish ragout with saffron sauce, where the wine’s acidity balances the richness of the dish. Additionally, it pairs well with fresh water fish in cream sauce, as its freshness cuts through the creaminess, enhancing the overall dining experience. Grilled prawns with lemon and herbs, or a classic Tuscan seafood stew, would also highlight the wine’s bright acidity and aromatic complexity.

Overall, Castello del Terriccio's Con Vento 2022 exemplifies the estate's dedication to producing wines that capture the essence of their unique terroir, offering a delightful balance of aromatic complexity and refreshing acidity. It is a versatile and elegant expression of Viognier and Sauvignon Blanc, perfect for immediate enjoyment while possessing the finesse to develop further in the bottle