Olivastri Tommaso Santa Clara Trebbiano d'Abruzzo DOC 2022

Wine Type:
Style of Wine:	Light & Crisp
Country of Origin:	Italy
Wine Region:	Abruzzo
Grape Varietal:	Trebbiano
Bottle Format:	750mL
Case Size:	6 bottles
$180.90 Per Case ($30.15/btl)

Tasting Notes

This family-run estate is in Abruzzo, in the heart of the historic Costa dei Trabocchi, south of Pescara. The winery began in 2000, when Tommaso decided to put to fruition the passion and knowledge he learned from the two generations of wine-growers who preceded him: his father Antonio and grandfather Tommaso.

They own ~15 hectares of vineyards between the hills and the sea, close to the town of San Vito Chietino. The area provides a complex combination of soils and microclimates that give rise to grapes and wines of unique identity and high quality. The family follows closely the full production cycle from vineyards to bottle, the concept that “good wine is made in the vineyard” guides all decisions. Vinified grapes are the result of patient care and careful research, and cultivation respects methods and times of nature. In the cellar, further care is taken to enhance the identity of each grape variety and to produce genuine wines that express what nature provides and respects the traditions of Abruzzo wines.

The Trebbiano d’Abruzzo DOC was created in 1972, covers the whole Abruzzo region, and can include up to 15% of “other” grapes. And in the hands of the many large co-operatives that dominate the region’s output, Trebbiano d’Abruzzo does not generally achieve the respect it deserves. This however is not the case with “Sant Clara”, which is made from 100% Trebbiano d’Abruzzo grapes, hand-harvested from low-yield vineyards on the Marcantonio estate planted 127 metres a.s.l.. Overlooking the Adriatic Sea to the east, and protected by the Majella mountain to the west, these vineyards are planted in calcareous-clay soil and ripen under the dry sun of the hills. Combined, this allows for rich mineral aromatics and complex structure to develop naturally in the grapes.

Traditional white wine vinification - following crushing and destemming, the grapes are kept chilled for 18 hours at 6 celsius to preserve fresh aromatics. A soft pressing follows, and fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled, stainless-steel tanks. The wine is aged in stainless-steel tanks on the lees, and rests in bottle for two more months.

Our tasting note: Bright, straw-yellow colour, with rich aromas and flavours of white-pulp fruits - peach and apricot - ripe lime and tangerine, with mineral notes of dried herbs and white flowers. Dry, light- to medium-bodied, with fresh acidity and a persistent, clean finish.

Food matches: Pair with seafood/shellfish and grilled/baked fish, egg dishes, white meats, vegetarian dishes, and fresh cheeses. An easy wine to drink on its own.

Critical Praise