Grapelive Fun Summer White
By Kerry Winslow
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2008 Masi “Masianco” delle Venezie IGT, White (Pinot Grigio & Verduzzo) Italy.
Masi, know for their unique innovation and tradition, continue to make special regional wines that reflect both terroir and specialty winemaking. Like the Amarone, they put the grapes, in this case only the Verduzzo, on straw mats to dry and concentrate the ripe flavors, then fermented, but unlike the red wines it is fermented on its own instead of added to the rest of the blend to re-ferment. (To read about the process in detail go to Masi’s website: www.masi.it) After that the Veduzzo goes into barrel to mature and gain fuller and rounder flavors, before being blended with the Pinot Grigio. This vintage is 75% Pinot Grigio and 25% Verduzzo, and it is a lovely and interesting wine that goes with almost anything, I in fact enjoyed it with Oysters, but it does pick up some richness with air and can handle a huge selection of dishes. The nose is bright with citrus flowers, verbena and a hint of honeyed orange peel, with a palate of green apple, melon, grapefruit, lemon and a touch of peach. I found a bit of mineral essence, white flower and spice in the background, with a round full texture. The Masianco still has plenty of zing and the acidity keeps it fresh and it is clean and crisp, making it a great summer wine. ($20-25 Est.) 90 Points, grapelive
www.masi.it
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