2020 Sgarzon Teroldego

The 2020 Teroldego Sgarzon is remarkably pretty and finessed with crushed strawberries, roses and sweet smoke. This is silky and pliant with a cool-toned feel, complemented by lifting acidity and ripe mineral-tinged red berries. It leaves the palate watering for more, yet with a subtle tug of fine tannins and lingering sour cherry fruits. I don’t see the 2020 Sgarzon as a long-distance runner, yet it’s geared to give masses of pleasure over the medium term.

Full bottle 1,447 g. Demeter certified. Teroldego grown on the Campo Rotaliano in Valle dell’Adige, northern Italy . Fermented and aged eight months on skins in Spanish tinajas (amphorae). Deep crimson. Aromatic dark-red fruit, with minor highlights of dried wild flowers, possibly lavender as it opens in the glass, and a hint of crushed stones, though this last characteristic is more evident on the Morei. Instantly captivating on the palate with a combination of energising freshness and very fine tannins, dry, pulled tight like a bowstring. So clean in the mouth and refined. A delicate peony-like scent appears on the palate but there's also a refined darkness to the flavour. Incredibly long, pure and vibrant. Becomes more floral with air. Delicious, sensitive wine. (JH)