SCAIA BIANCO 2023

TASTING NOTES

Appearance: Brilliant pale straw with luminous silver-green highlights and exceptional clarity.

Nose: Vibrant and aromatic with pronounced notes of white peach, green apple, and citrus blossom, complemented by hints of fresh herbs and subtle almond. Secondary aromas reveal delicate floral notes, a touch of ginger, and a distinctive mineral character reflective of its northern Italian origin.

Palate: Crisp and refreshing with bright acidity balanced by appealing fruit concentration. The entry presents juicy white peach and crisp apple flavors framed by citrus notes (lemon zest, grapefruit) and a subtle touch of salinity. The mid-palate shows remarkable purity with a textural dimension that adds interest without heaviness. The wine's structure reveals excellent balance between fruit expression, mouthwatering acidity, and a clean, focused profile that makes it both refreshing and satisfying.

Finish: Bright and persistent with lingering fruit notes gradually giving way to subtle mineral and citrus elements. The finish maintains impressive length with a refreshing quality that invites another sip while offering enough complexity to complement a variety of cuisines.

TECHNICAL INFORMATION

Producer: Tenuta Sant'Antonio
Region: Veneto, Italy
Classification: Veneto IGT
Varietal: Garganega with small percentages of Chardonnay and Trebbiano di Soave
Vintage: 2023
Alcohol: 12.5% ABV
Fermentation: Temperature-controlled stainless steel
Aging: 4-6 months on fine lees in stainless steel
Production: Limited production
Closure: Screw cap

VINEYARD & WINEMAKING NOTES

Scaia Bianco 2023 sources primarily from vineyards in the eastern Veneto region of northern Italy, particularly areas near the classic Soave zone. The vineyards feature volcanic and calcareous soils that impart distinctive mineral character and freshness to the wines grown here. This terroir, combined with the significant day-night temperature variations of the region, creates ideal conditions for aromatic white varieties with excellent natural acidity.

The 2023 growing season in the Veneto began with a mild spring followed by a warm but not excessively hot summer, with beneficial rain at key moments. The moderate temperatures and excellent diurnal shifts allowed for gradual ripening and development of complex aromatics while maintaining crucial acidity—creating ideal conditions for vibrant, expressive white wines.

Harvested in the cool early morning hours to preserve freshness and aromatic intensity, the grapes were gently pressed and cold-settled before fermentation. Temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel tanks (55-60°F) preserved the pure varietal character and aromatic expression. Following fermentation, the wine remained on its fine lees for several months with periodic gentle stirring to develop textural complexity while maintaining freshness and vibrancy.

The name "Scaia" refers to the flaky, chalky soil found in parts of the Veneto region, which influences the wine's distinctive mineral character. This wine represents Tenuta Sant'Antonio's approach to creating accessible, vibrant wines that showcase the region's potential for fresh, fruit-forward expressions alongside their more traditional offerings.

FOOD PAIRING SUGGESTIONS

• Fresh seafood, particularly shellfish and light fish dishes
• Vegetable risotto with herbs
• Light pasta with spring vegetables
• Fresh goat cheese and young cheeses
• Salads with citrus vinaigrette
• Classic Venetian cicchetti (small plates)
• Herb-roasted chicken
• Mediterranean appetizers with olives and fresh herbs

ABOUT TENUTA SANT'ANTONIO & SCAIA

Founded in 1989 by the four Castagnedi brothers (Armando, Tiziano, Paolo, and Massimo), Tenuta Sant'Antonio has established itself as one of the leading quality-focused producers in the Veneto region. The family's deep roots in the area began with their father, who worked the land as a winegrower, inspiring his sons to establish their own estate focused on quality and innovation while respecting local traditions.

While Tenuta Sant'Antonio is particularly renowned for their premium Amarone della Valpolicella and Valpolicella wines, the Scaia line represents their exploration of more contemporary, accessible styles that showcase the versatility of indigenous varieties alongside international grapes. The Scaia project allows the brothers to express their creative vision outside the strict regulations of DOC and DOCG classifications.

The winery's philosophy emphasizes sustainable viticulture, low yields, and minimal intervention in the cellar to allow the distinctive character of their vineyards to shine through. Their commitment to quality extends from their flagship wines to the Scaia line, which delivers exceptional value while maintaining the family's standards for authentic, terroir-driven wines.

The Scaia line has gained recognition for offering fresh, approachable interpretations of Veneto's wine traditions that appeal to contemporary palates while still showcasing the region's distinctive qualities.

INTERESTING INSIGHTS ABOUT THE WINE

• Garganega, the primary grape in this blend, is one of Italy's oldest indigenous white varieties and the main component of Soave. In this modern interpretation, it displays vibrant fruit character while maintaining the subtle almond note characteristic of the variety.
• The Scaia line represents Tenuta Sant'Antonio's more experimental side, allowing them to create wines outside the traditional denominations of the region while still highlighting indigenous varieties and local terroir.
• The volcanic and limestone soils of eastern Veneto impart a distinctive mineral character that distinguishes these wines from other Italian whites, providing structural elements and complexity that elevate them beyond simple fruity wines.
• While many associate Veneto primarily with Amarone, Valpolicella, and Prosecco, the region's still white wines are gaining increased recognition for their quality, freshness, and value—with Scaia helping to lead this renaissance.
• The addition of small percentages of Chardonnay and Trebbiano di Soave to the traditional Garganega base creates a more complex, layered wine while maintaining the distinctive character of the region—showing how thoughtful innovation can enhance tradition.
• The 2023 vintage in Veneto is considered particularly successful for white wines, with moderate temperatures and excellent diurnal shifts that allowed for optimal aromatic development while maintaining the bright acidity essential for vibrant white wines.
• The screw cap closure helps preserve the wine's fresh, aromatic character while eliminating the risk of cork taint—particularly important for aromatic white wines intended for enjoying in their youth.