Pinot Grigio Alpha Zeta Terrapieno 2021

New Zealand winemaker, Matt Thomson works with growers (rather than buy bulk wine, which is standard among most wines from Verona) to obtain high quality ripe grapes, to ensure Alpha Zeta bring the best of wines from the Veneto at the best prices.

The Terrapieno vineyard is situated in the Valpantena Valley in eastern Valpolicella. Cool currents blow down the valley from the foothills of the Dolomites, enabling the grapes to ripen slowly, resulting in aromas of of pear and bread crust, classic for Pinot Grigio from this region. Lovely weight and a silky texture on the palate, with hints of dried herbs, zesty acidity and a saline minerality on the finish.

A great wine for a pasta dish with tomato sauce, and my cheese recommendation is Cacciattona di Capra al Fieno, also from the Veneto – a firm goat’s milk cheese, matured with natural hay.