From: Cavaion Veronese, Valpolicella, Italy
Varietal: Pinot Grigio

Taste: This wine presents a bright straw-yellow hue. On the nose, it offers pronounced notes of white fruits such as pear and apple, accompanied by hints of banana. On the palate is ripe fruit of white peach, yellow apple, and crisp pear, accented by a subtle touch of lemon zest and grapefruit, which add brightness and lift. Delicate white floral aromas, including acacia, honeysuckle, and a saline and stony minerality lend a refreshing, clean profile. The medium-bodied texture is smooth and rounded, balanced by a lively acidity that adds vibrancy to the palate. The lingering finish is crisp and dry, with notes of citrus, almond, and a light herbal touch.

Pairing: When pairing food with this wine, it's best to focus on dishes that complement its bright acidity, fresh fruit flavors, and subtle minerality. Light seafood dishes such as grilled shrimp, seared scallops, or lemony white fish enhance the wine’s citrus notes and crisp finish. Creamy pastas or risottos, particularly those with mushrooms, seafood, or light cheeses, balance its acidity while allowing its delicate floral aromas to shine. The wine’s mineral edge makes it an excellent match for fresh salads with citrus vinaigrette, goat cheese, arugula, and lightly seasoned poultry dishes like roasted chicken or turkey. 

Arugula Salad With Peaches, Goat Cheese and Basil
By Lidey Heuck, NYT Cooking

About: Cesari Winery, officially known as Gerardo Cesari, was established in 1936 by its namesake, Gerardo Cesari. From its inception, the winery aimed to produce wines that could stand alongside the world's finest reds. This ambition coincided with the era when"Amarone" was first introduced.

In the early 1970s, the winery expanded its horizons under the leadership of Gerardo's son, Franco Cesari. Franco's vision and dedication led to Cesari's Amarone Classico 1971 becoming one of the first to be exported to the United States, significantly boosting the international reputation of both the winery and Amarone wines.