Aperitivo Time: Pinot Grigio Selection with Cicchetti (Bar Snacks)
Pinot Grigio Mixed Pack
As the sun goes down on a summer’s day in Venice, the bacari and osteria are crowded with friends enjoying an age-old tradition – the sharing of wine accompanied by an array of cicchetti (bite-sized bar snacks). The plentiful supply of fresh, flavourful ingredients found in the region is the key to the appeal of these simple, yet sophisticated nibbles, especially when paired with aperitivi or some of Italy's quality white wines.
Today, we present northeast Italy's true juggernaut of white wines - Pinot Grigio. What Prosecco is to sparkling wine, Pinot Grigio is to white wine in this part of the world. It is the most commonly planted and most exported white varietal, much loved here and the world over for its excellent fruit characteristics and liveliness.
In response to the burgeoning global demand, industry leaders found it necessary to protect the wine’s reputation by establishing a new regional classification with specific standards in 2017. The Delle Venezie DOC encompasses Trentino, Friuli-Venezia Giulia and the Veneto - what is sometimes referred to as the Tre Venezie or “three Venices” because they were once a part of the Venetian Republic. The intention of the appellation is to certify the superior quality and specific regional style for the benefit of the consumer, with so many other versions having flooded the market in recent decades.
Two of the wines in our featured pack hail from the Delle Venezie DOC, whilst the third comes from a particularly esteemed subregion known as Friuli Colli Orientali:
2021 La Farra Pinot Grigio delle Venezie DOC - Straw yellow in the glass, the bouquet is fresh and inviting with notes of apricot, green apple, and wisteria. Well-balanced fruit character with a firm, clean acid line.
2021 Cavazza Pinot Grigio delle Venezie DOC - A natural light straw coloured wine, with hints of flowers and golden apple on the nose. Medium-bodied, with good texture and minerality.
2021 Guerra Albano Pinot Grigio Friuli Colli Orientali DOC - Starting out the colour of straw, this wine will turn into a deep yellow colour, as it matures. The nose is floral and fruity with white peach characters. Dry, soft and textured with a uniquely creamy lingering aftertaste.
Today, we invite you to enjoy a taste of Venetian culture by pairing our favourite Pinot Grigios exactly as the Venetians do – with simply prepared and delightful bacari-style crostini.
See the Recipe