Vallarom Vadum Caesaris Pet Nat 2019

Vadum Caesaris Pet Nat is a pétillant naturel from Vallarom, a certified organic farm in Avio, southern Trentino. The blend of Pinot Bianco, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Riesling is grown on calcareous-dolomitic soils in the Vallagarina IGT zone, where the Adige Valley runs between Monte Baldo and the Lessinia mountains. Vineyards sit at roughly 260 to 300 meters elevation and benefit from the daily Ora del Garda winds, which pull warm air from Lake Garda northward and moderate the alpine climate.

Grapes are hand-harvested and soft-pressed, then fermented with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel at controlled temperature. After approximately six months in tank, the wine is bottled with a small addition of unfermented grape must and completes its fermentation in bottle using the ancestral method, trapping carbon dioxide for natural effervescence. No selected yeasts, enzymes, or malolactic bacteria are used. Sulfur dioxide additions are minimal.

The result is a lively, hazy sparkling white with fine, gentle bubbles. On the nose: green apple, lemon peel, peach, and a hint of brioche from the lees contact. The palate is dry, crisp, and saline, with bright acidity and a clean, refreshing finish. Serve well-chilled directly from the bottle; no decanting needed.