2016 Sauvignon Quartz

The 2016 Sauvignon Blanc Quarz wafts up with remarkable freshness, showing sweet yellow florals, lemon oils and a hint of vanilla custard. It’s silky-smooth, with contrasting sour green citrus tones that give way to tart orchard fruits and an herbal twang, all excited by saline-infused acidity. This is a pure pleasure to taste, tapering off long and spicy, leaving sour zests of grapefruit and a salty flourish lingering. The 2016 is overdelivering in every possible way.

The 2016 Alto Adige Terlano Sauvignon Quarz is drop-dead gorgeous. It appeals to Sauvignon Blanc enthusiasts, but also to detractors of the grape who may be put off by the pungent varietal notes you get in other parts of the world. This Alto Adige expression does not have that same nervous energy or primal raciness that you get in New Zealand, for example. Instead, this is an almost docile expression in comparison with lasting fruit tones of ripe peach, preserved lemon and exotic saffron. Quarz is aged on the lees, partially in stainless steel and partially in oak barrel. The mid-weight mouthfeel is supple and round. Some 60,000 bottles were made. I am curious to track this wine's evolution over the next ten years, because I am confident that it will stand strong.

Enticing nose, floating from aromas of grapefruit, white pepper and spices to flint, dried-papaya and pineapple notes. Medium-to full-bodied with layers of stone, green and even tropical fruit and a long finish. Phenolic yet zesty and vibrant. Always one of Italy’s great white wines. Drink now.