La Battistelle 'Battistelle' Soave Classico DOC 2023

This Soave represents the serious, terroir-driven side of the appellation that's worlds apart from mass-produced versions. The basalt soils of Castellaro hill and hand-built stone terraces create intense mineral complexity, while twelve months on lees adds textural depth without malolactic fermentation. Most commercial Soave prioritises volume over character, but La Battistelle's approach mirrors the precision found in premium Burgundy or Chablis.

The intense minerality comes from the ancient basalt volcanic soils on Castellaro hill, which are notoriously difficult to farm but produce wines of exceptional character. Basalt is rich in iron and magnesium, creating that distinctive flinty, almost metallic edge that defines great mineral wines. The old vines struggle in this dense soil, concentrating flavours and drawing deep mineral compounds that translate directly into the glass.

The wine's laser-focused acidity and bitter almond finish make it exceptional with seafood, particularly crudo, oysters, or grilled fish with herbs. The textural weight from lees aging handles richer preparations like risotto or pasta with cream-based sauces beautifully. The mineral backbone also complements aged cheeses, while the citrus notes brighten vegetable-forward dishes like asparagus or artichoke preparations.

Serve well-chilled at 8-10°C to highlight the crisp minerality and citrus precision, though it will reveal more complexity as it warms slightly in the glass. The wine's structure and lees aging suggest it will develop beautifully over 3-5 years, gaining honeyed notes while retaining its mineral core. Store horizontally in a cool, dark place, and consider decanting if drinking immediately to fully express its textural qualities.

Lees aging involves leaving the wine in contact with dead yeast cells after fermentation, which adds creamy texture and subtle complexity without oak influence. This technique, borrowed from Champagne and white Burgundy production, gives the wine its compelling mouthfeel while preserving the bright, mineral-driven character. The extended contact also provides natural preservation and allows the wine to develop more nuanced flavours while maintaining its essential freshness and precision.