Zolla Chardonnay

A Chardonnay from Salento in southern Italy — that means plenty of sunshine, ripe fruit, and yet no heaviness. The Zolla Chardonnay from Vigneti del Salento shows what Puglia is capable of when it comes to white wine.

The Salento peninsula in the far south of Apulia is one of the sunniest wine regions in Italy. Sandy-calcareous soils and constant sea breezes from the Adriatic and Ionian Seas combine to produce grapes with natural ripeness while retaining their freshness.

In the glass, a clear straw yellow. On the nose, yellow apple, ripe pear, and a slight hint of white peach. On the palate, the wine shows more structure than expected: spicy notes, a slightly mineral line, and integrated acidity that provides length. The finish is clean and pleasantly short and fresh.

Serving suggestion: Serve chilled at 10–12 °C. Pairs well with grilled calamari, seafood pasta, mild goat cheese, or a summer antipasti platter. Also a good choice as a casual aperitif. Drink now—not for aging.