2025 Giuseppe Quintarelli Bianco Secco, Veneto, Italy

Giuseppe Quintarelli is the benchmark estate of Valpolicella, run by the Quintarelli family from the hills above Negrar and known for its handwritten labels and patient, long-aged wines. The Bianco Secco Ca' del Merlo is led by Garganega, with Trebbiano Toscano, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Saorin, the local name for Friulano, grown on limestone and basalt. The grapes are pressed straight after harvest, given a 12-hour cold soak and fermented at controlled temperatures with regular lees stirring, giving a fresh, mineral and textural dry white. Textural Veneto white for risotto, seafood or soft cheeses.