Garganega (most often labelled as Soave!)
TL; DR
This is an easy-going white variety that helped put Northern Italy on the white wine map.
So, what is Garganega all about?--red
Garganega is only the 6th most planted white variety in Italy, but despite that, does a lot of lifting! Particularly in a region called Soave in Veneto where it became a major calling card for Italian wines across the globe in the 80s and 90s. It's fresh, tangy and inoffensive, and pleases everyone. Basically, a great plus 1 date to bring to any party!
Where did Garganega originate?--aromatic
Though Garganega has long been thought to have originated in Veneto, recent DNA research uncovered that the same grape has been heavily planted 1000s of kilometres south on the island of Sicily for quite some time too! Here it goes by a different name, Grecanico Dorato. So whether its first roots took hold in the north or the south is still up for debate.
Where's the best Garganega from?--racy
Italy. Nowhere "does" this grape quite like Italy. Especially in its northern homeland of Veneto in northeastern Italy where the grape is held in very high regard.
However, there is quite a range of quality out there — from bland and boring to lively, elegant and age-worthy — depending on where it's from. Look first to Soave, and for the finest examples, the Soave Classico zone. This zone is where the most historical and protected plantings reside, and the vineyards are devoted almost entirely to the grape. It's the heartland of quality Garganega.
What does Garganega taste like?--aromatic
Garganega is typically lean, gentle and unpretentious. It often shows pretty aromas of peach blossom, apricot and baked golden apples, and even melon. It's also underpinned by citrus flavours, like a lemon peel or lime, along with a salty edge and herby marjoram. This grape is also one of the few whites that have the capacity to age remarkably well. The most notable examples develop a delicate almond note and intriguing tangerine flavours in the process.
What are the main styles of Garganega?--cellar
Some Italian examples spend a bit of time in oak barrels which flesh out and give the wine more weight. These are the exception rather than the rule. So for the most part think clean, mineral-driven citrussy whites with generous orchard stone fruit.
Garganega has also shown a clear ability to produce sweet wines, particularly luscious syles made from dried, late-harvested grapes. We just don't see those on the market as often.
What foods pair with Garganega?--plum
Garganega, especially Soave, is a great example of what Italy's white wine producers do best. This gorgeous white is going to match up fantastically with rich Italian-style seafood dishes; any combination of shellfish and gnocchi or tagliatelle will be absolutely delicious, as will squid ink linguine, simple seared scallops, and lightly battered white fish. Vegetable or chicken risotto is also a classic pairing with Soave, but it’s worth bearing in mind that you can get great results from matching this wine with less spicy Thai, Indian, and Chinese cuisine, too. Fresh salads with citrussy dressings and dishes that incorporate green herbs such as tarragon or marjoram are tried and true winners too!
Recipes to pair with Garganega--red
Roast Cod with Parsley Crust
Lychee and Coconut Mussels
Squid Ink Pasta with Chilli Crab
Mint and Zucchini Salad
Fun fact--earth
Garganega ripens late but holds its acidity (a unique attribute!), and is well suited to the production of sweet wines made in the recioto style of Italy, where grapes are picked ripe and then dried on straw mats to evaporate the water and leave only sugar!
If you like this, you should also give these grapes a guzzle...--wines
About the Author & Artist
Alex Tanner is a certified sommelier that spends more time running in old-growth forests than any other somm — impulsively training her nose while at it! A talented illustrator with a unique style, her doodling works are inspired by the world of wine - and somehow, seem to improve after a glass or two.