Wines Valdadige Nals Margreid - Baronessse Passito - 2016

Viniou Reviews

The Cuvée Baronessse Passito 2016 from Nals Margreid is a captivating sweet white wine hailing from the Valdadige DOC in the Veneto region of Italy. This wine is crafted using the traditional passito method, which involves drying the grapes after harvest to concentrate their sugars and aromas, resulting in a luscious, richly textured wine. The blend is finely balanced, showcasing vibrant notes of dried apricots, figs, and honey, coupled with hints of orange blossom and a delicate touch of spice. Despite its sweetness, the wine maintains a lively acidity that offers elegance and prevents any cloying sensation. The 2016 vintage benefitted from a favourable growing season, ensuring optimal ripeness for passito production.

Veneto’s Valdadige appellation stretches along the Adige river, nestled between the dramatic foothills of the Alps and gentle valleys. The area enjoys a temperate climate with significant diurnal variations and cooling mountain breezes, providing ideal conditions for grape maturation and aromatic complexity. Soils here are varied but predominantly composed of limestone and gravel, contributing to the mineral profile and finesse of the wines. Veneto possesses a rich winemaking tradition, renowned for both its dry and sweet expressions, particularly those made with the appassimento method, as evidenced in this beautiful passito.

Such an elegant and aromatic sweet wine invites pairings with both classic and inventive cuisine. Traditional matches include blue cheeses such as Gorgonzola or Roquefort, where the wine’s honeyed notes counterbalance the saltiness and piquancy of the cheese. Rich, creamy desserts like panna cotta with dried fruit or a classic Venetian tiramisu are natural partners, complementing the wine’s texture and character. Foie gras served with toasted brioche also makes for an indulgent pairing, allowing both elements to shine.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine chilled but not too cold, ideally between 10-12°C. This temperature amplifies its aromatic expression while preserving its refreshing acidity. Decanting is unnecessary, but pour into moderately sized glasses to allow the complex bouquet to unfurl. This wine is a delight for contemplative sipping or as the star alongside refined desserts and cheeses.