Ströblhof, Südtirol Sauvignon Blanc, “Nico”

Nestled in the Italian Dolomites in the idyllic town of Appiano/Eppan, Ströblhof is a gem of a wine estate that does everything well: some of Italy’s best Pinot Noirs; sumptuous Pinot Blancs; and this vibrant, mineral-edged Sauvignon Blanc, which shows off the Alto Adige region’s affinity for this variety. Grown in gravelly soils at 550 meters’ elevation, this is an assertively aromatic, textured style of Sauvignon Blanc—very typical of this mountainous region, where intense luminosity combined with cool temperatures creates powerful whites with well-preserved natural acidity. Lots of herbal notes and hints of elderberry along with classic Sauvignon notes of citrus and white flowers. Aged for six months in large oak casks (20HL), which lends some roundness to the texture.