San Marzano Edda Lei Bianco, Salento

A very distinctive and complex wine with intriguing aromas of orange blossom and beeswax complemented by rich honey with overlaying freshness.

Producer Note

In 1962, 19 vine growers from San Marzano whose families had farmed the land for generations, combined their efforts to establish 'Cantine San Marzano'. Through the decades this cooperative has grown significantly, attracting over 1,200 vine growers. Using modern and technologically advanced vinification techniques they produce elegant wines that pay homage to the ancient Apulian wine traditions. The fusion of time honoured tradition, passion and contemporary techniques, enables this winery to produce wines with distinctive varietal and regional characteristics while reflecting the local terroir. In the Sommelier Wine Awards, San Marzano was awarded European Producer of the Year 2017.

Vintage

During 2020, low spring temperatures resulted in a 15 to 21 day delay between the flowering and fruit setting stages. However, a sharp increase in temperatures from the second week in July reduced the delay to 10 to 12 days. Broadly, due to the overall lower sunny days registered during winter and spring, the yields were reduced. The summer was dry, windy and sunny with ideal pre-harvest conditions. At the time of picking, the grapes were very healthy and of good quality, with an excellent aromatic profile. 

Vineyard

The vineyard is located at approximately 100 metres above sea level and benefits from great diurnal temperature variations. The warmer temperatures during the day and cooler nights encourage the grapes to have a long maturation period, with the heat of the day promoting sugar accumulation, while the cooler nights preserve the acidity levels. The vines are planted to a density of 4500 vines per hectare and are trained according to the Guyot method. The soils are quite thin, soft and shallow, but have a good texture.

Winemaking

The grapes were gently de-stemmed and then cryomacerated for several hours. This was followed by a soft pressing and a cold settling to encourage a natural decantation. The alcoholic fermentation took place in French oak barrels. The wine was matured on its fine lees in barriques for a period of four months, with weekly lees stirring.

Tasting Note

A distinctive blend with delicate aromas of sun-ripened peach and floral aromatics, which are interwoven with delightful hints of freshly squeezed lime, mint and herbal complexity. Beautifully balanced, the rounded palate is elegantly styled and has a touch of minerality on the finish.

Serving Suggestion

Accompanies first courses, rich fish and chicken dishes and is excellent with cheese.

Grape

Chardonnay 80%, Moscatello Selvatico 15%, Fiano 5%