Pasini San Giovanni, Valtènesi 2020

Pasini San Giovanni was founded by Andrea Pasini in 1958 and is still run today by the family, now the third generation of winemakers. They’ve become a benchmark for the regions of Valtènesi and Lugana - both on the Brescia side of Lake Garda in Lombardy. Under the current guidance of cousins Paolo, Sara, and Luca, the their philosophy is focused on organic farming (fully certified as of 2016), biodiversity in the vineyards, indigenous varietals like Groppello and Turbiana, and a carbon neutral carbon footprint (their entire winery is run on solar).

100% Groppello, an indigenous grape that only grows in Valtenesi. Originally descending from Sangiovese, Groppello Gentile has thin skins, light color, and produces fresh, bright wines with characteristics of flowers, spice, and sweet tree fruits (think Italian poulsard and you're pretty close). Sourced from estate vineyards in the hillier soils on the eastern side of Lake Garda. The soils here are finer and rockier and altitudes range from 150-300 meters. Hand-harvested, destemmed, and crushed. Fermentation occurs in stainless steel. After fermentation wine is aged in stainless steel as Pasini San Giovanni believes the character of Groppello is best expressed without the influence from wood.

Lombardy, Italy

FOOD PAIRING: Meat Lasagna.

CERTIFIED ORGANIC.