Sirch Cladrecis Chardonnay 2018

Sirch is a boutique winery located in Friuli Venezia Giulia, a renowned region in northeastern Italy for producing refined white wines with remarkable elegance and precision. The Cladrecis Chardonnay 2018 is one of Sirch’s standout wines, coming from the Cladrecis vineyard, which benefits from the region’s cool climate and unique limestone soils. These soils, along with the proximity to the Alps and the Adriatic Sea, contribute to the wine’s freshness, minerality, and complexity. The 2018 vintage was carefully crafted to reflect both the terroir and the pure expression of Chardonnay, balancing fruit richness with finesse.

This Chardonnay was partially aged in oak barrels, adding depth and texture to the wine, while preserving its vibrant acidity and fresh fruit character. The oak is well-integrated, complementing the wine rather than overpowering it.

Appearance: Medium gold with a bright, clear hue, showing some development and richness.

Aroma: The nose is complex and elegant, offering aromas of ripe yellow apple, pear, and citrus peel, alongside subtle notes of toasted almonds, vanilla, and a hint of buttered brioche from the oak ageing. There’s also a distinctive mineral edge, reflecting the limestone-rich soils.

Taste: Medium-bodied with a creamy texture and refreshing acidity. The palate reveals layers of ripe stone fruit such as peach and golden apple, balanced by zesty lemon and a touch of pineapple. The oak adds hints of vanilla and toasted hazelnuts, while the wine’s minerality lends a crisp, structured backbone.

Finish: The finish is long and balanced, with lingering notes of citrus, apple, and a delicate, nutty complexity. The wine’s bright acidity keeps it refreshing, with a subtle hint of oak rounding out the finish.

Food Pairing: Sirch Cladrecis Chardonnay 2018 pairs beautifully with rich, yet balanced dishes. It works particularly well with roast chicken or turkey, where the wine’s creamy texture and bright acidity complement the savoury depth of the meat. It also pairs nicely with dishes like grilled swordfish or lobster, as the wine’s citrus and mineral notes enhance the freshness of the seafood, while its subtle oak flavours harmonise with the richness of the dish.