Wines Valdadige Nals Margreid - Stella Alpina - 2023

Nals Margreid's Cuvée Stella Alpina 2023, hailing from the Valdadige DOC in the Veneto region of northern Italy, is a dry white wine that embodies the finesse and freshness characteristic of Alpine terroirs. This blend typically includes varieties such as Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, and perhaps a touch of Sauvignon Blanc, though exact proportions may vary. The 2023 vintage reflects the relatively cool conditions of the region, yielding a wine with crisp acidity, light to medium body, and expressive notes of green apple, white peach, citrus, and delicate floral undertones. The winemaking here is designed to preserve purity and varietal expression: careful temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel tanks, minimal intervention, and avoidance of oak allow the natural fruit and mineral characters to shine through.

The Valdadige DOC is nestled between the Dolomites and Lake Garda, straddling the boundary between the Veneto and Trentino-Alto Adige regions. The area benefits from a unique alpine-mediterranean climate: warm, sunny days encourage ripeness and aromatic development, while cool nights retain refreshing acidity. Soils here are diverse but often include calcareous rock and glacial moraines, imparting a subtle minerality and linear structure to local whites. The history of vine cultivation in this region dates back to Roman times, with its modern reputation built on clean, vibrant wines that reflect both the rugged Alps and the gentle influence of Lake Garda.

In terms of food pairing, this Valdadige white excels as an aperitif, but comes into its own alongside light Mediterranean dishes. It pairs beautifully with grilled lake fish such as trout or perch, vegetable risottos—especially those with asparagus or courgette—delicate starters like carpaccio of white fish, or fresh goat’s cheese. Traditional Venetian plates such as sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines) or a simple seafood pasta are naturally harmonious choices, echoing the wine’s brisk acidity and subtle fruit.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine well-chilled but not icy, at around 8-10°C. Pour into tulip-shaped white wine glasses to capture the aromatic complexity. If possible, allow the bottle a few minutes in the glass to reveal its full aromatic range. This is a wine best enjoyed in its youth, within one to three years of the vintage, to appreciate its vibrant fruit and lively freshness.