# Blanc (2021)

- **Producer:** Podere Il Carnasciale
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** Toscana, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €38
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** peach, apricot, apple, lemon, fennel, butter, cream, toast, vanilla, honey, almond

## About this wine

Podere Il Carnasciale, world-renowned for its legendary and mysterious Caberlot grape, also produces this exceptional white wine. Located in the Valdarno region of Tuscany, the estate is run with meticulous care by the Rogosky family. 'Blanc' is a micro-production Chardonnay that showcases a different side of this iconic estate. Cultivated on high-altitude, stony slopes, the vines benefit from cool nights and warm days, resulting in a white wine of remarkable tension, elegance, and mineral complexity.

## Interesting facts

- While famous for the unique red 'Caberlot' grape, the estate applies the same meticulous, low-intervention care to this rare Chardonnay.
- The vineyards are situated in the Valdarno di Sopra, an area highly praised by Cosimo III de' Medici as early as 1716.
- Production of 'Blanc' is extremely limited, with only a few thousand bottles produced each vintage.

## Food pairing

The wine's vibrant acidity cuts through rich, buttery textures, while its medium body and subtle oak integration complement roasted poultry, creamy pasta dishes, and delicate seafood. The mineral undertones pair beautifully with earthy mushrooms and herbs like tarragon and fennel.

## Wine making process

The Chardonnay grapes are hand-harvested and gently pressed. Fermentation takes place in a combination of stainless steel tanks and used French oak barriques to preserve freshness while adding subtle texture. The wine undergoes partial malolactic fermentation and is aged on its fine lees with regular battonage for several months, enhancing its creamy mouthfeel and complexity before bottling.