Wines Umbria Wines Antinori - Castello della Sala Cervaro della Sala - 2017

Cervaro della Sala 2017 from Antinori’s historic Castello della Sala estate in Umbria is widely considered one of Italy’s benchmark white wines. The precise blend is traditionally centred around Chardonnay with a small proportion of Grechetto, though the exact composition may vary. The wine is typically crafted with a careful combination of fermentation and maturation in oak, imparting both depth and subtle toastiness. On the nose, you can generally expect layered aromas recalling ripe orchard fruits such as yellow apple and pear, interwoven with delicate floral notes, hints of citrus, and an undercurrent of sweet spices and hazelnut from the oak. The palate is both generous and precise, marked by refreshing acidity and a creamy texture, offering a fine balance between fruit expression, minerality, and elegant, lingering oak nuances.

Umbria, nestled in the heart of central Italy, is known for its rolling hills and a varied terroir that embraces both clay-limestone and volcanic soils. The region’s continental climate, benefiting from marked diurnal temperature shifts, proves ideal for preserving acidity and aromatic richness in white varieties. Castello della Sala, an ancient fortress dating back to the 14th century, has played an important role in revitalising the region’s reputation for fine whites, particularly through a focus on international grape varieties combined with indigenous traditions.

This style of Umbrian white wine, with its combination of freshness and generous structure, pairs beautifully with sophisticated dishes. It excels alongside seafood risottos, grilled shellfish, or roasted poultry with creamy sauces. For a regional touch, consider pairing it with Umbria’s famed truffle dishes—such as tagliolini al tartufo—or wild mushroom risotto, which complement the wine’s texture and aromatic complexity.

For ideal enjoyment, serve Cervaro della Sala 2017 chilled at around 10–12°C. Allow a few moments for the wine to open up in the glass, revealing its fine balance of fruit, minerality and subtle oak. Decanting for half an hour can also help express its full aromatic and textural potential.