Garganega is a grape from Veneto in north-east Italy, best known for the dominant role it plays in Soave wines. Domain Day of the Barossa were the first to plant it outside of Italy in 2004. The King Valley seems a likely place for it to pop up now.
This tastes varietal, although it actually includes 12% Fiano as well. Almond skins and oxidised brown pears with notes of sea spray, herbs and brown spice. I’m surprised by how mild the acidity is, especially given the vintage. You can look at that two ways; it makes it highly slammable (and I think that’s a big part of the appeal here) but some may want more animation and refreshment. I’d like to see a little more zip but overall I find it quite savoury and tasty. I’ve got a soft spot for it and look forward to seeing further iterations. 88
Region: King Valley
Alcohol: 12.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $24.95
Tasted: July 2013
Slammable – I like that. I’ve been drinking the one Joe Grilli makes in Veneto, and thought much the same nothing offensive here. And pretty much shotgunned the bottle.
Andrew
I would have knocked off this wine pretty bloody quickly if I hadn’t been tasting it on a designated alcohol free day
Would love to try Joe’s Veneto take on it.
“Designated alcohol free day”… whoever heard of such a thing!
You have to plan ahead, trust me…