Just a little about the winery. The Damonte family established Malvira in 1950 farming and selling for use in bulk wine. In 1975 the focus shifted to producing quality wine and the aim has been achieved over the intervening years. Today, their entire production comes from six distinct vineyards spread over 40 hectares and is 100% organically farmed.
The family has championed the Arneis varietal for decades, even though the total plantings dropped to less than 60 hectares in the early 1990s. Today, this release is an impressive example of what this varietal can be when everything lines up. Do not forget the 2022 harvest has been described as ‘a miracle harvest’ in Italy.
This is a richer style of Arneis than I have tasted before.
The nose exudes notes of citrus, white flowers, and tropical fruits on the breeze.
The palate is crisp and mouthwatering with a lovely rich mouthfeel without sacrificing acidity. You can almost smell the floral flavors wrapped in lime and tangerine peel with enticing secondary notes of peach, melon, and crisp apple with just a hint of honey and saline. Impressive balance and complexity. The finish goes on and on.
Pairings should include white fish, scallops, shellfish, and chicken. Serious consideration should be given to citrus-based sauces and rich garlic butter sauces. Roasted nuts and fragrant herbs should also be included in the recipe.
Another 3 – 5 years of cellaring should see improvements with the citrus and acidity relaxing and tropical fruits coming to the fore. Depends on how you like your Arnise.
Vine to Table 