la scolca black label gavi dei gavi 2021 750ml

First released in 1966, this is the original or benchmark Gavi, which brought fame to the then-small wine-producing region and showed the world the potential in the quality of white wines from Italy. Sourced from the estate's oldest Cortese vines, averaging over 60 years of age, these are also among the oldest in the appellation.

Terroir: The La Scolca Black Label is sourced from the estate's 60-year-old vines (average) with yields ranging from 70 quintals per hectare to 50 quintals per hectare for the oldest vines. Some vines, yield only 3-4 clusters per vine, encouraging concentration, depth, and complexity. Vines are located on the hills surrounding the Villa La Scolca. Soils are of volcanic origin, composed of calcareous clay with veins of chalky limestone similar to that found in Champagne and Chablis, giving a characteristic flinty character.

Vinification: Hand-harvested fruit is brought to the winery after 5-10 minutes, where it is sprayed with dry ice. Cryo-maceration, cold fermentation (13-14C) in stainless steel tanks, and the use of natural yeasts preserves Cortese's subtle fruit, flinty acidity, and structure. The young wine remains in the tank on its lees for nine months before natural decanting and bottling. This wine will only improve with bottle age, evolving beautifully for 10 years and more.

Tasting: Pale straw in color with delicate greenish highlights. Intense lemon citrus fruit with floral and flinty notes on the nose, comparable to the best wines from Chablis. Medium-bodied, with apple and more citrus fruit on the palate as well as notes of almonds and hazelnuts. The finish is crisp, refreshing, and long.

Critical Acclaim:
90 points - James Suckling
"Lots of minerals on the nose with hints of citrus blossoms. Medium body with the same mineral base, carrying a thin bead of really tangy, almost steely citrus-fruit flavor. A little aggressive on the palate, at least for now. This may need a year or so to calm down. Drink or hold."

750ml Bottle