Terredora di Paolo Falanghina 2009

Ahhhh, summer...the wonderful time of year where on the good days the temperature goes up and the pace of life slows down. These care free but warm days are no time for your favorite big reds or even an oaky Chardonnay. They call for something cooler, crisper, and more refreshing. I typically find myself drinking a lot of Sauvignon Blanc in the summer with some Albarino, a Vouvray, or a dry rose mixed in every so often. Not being a fan of Pinot Grigio, Italy was never on my radar for white wine. This year, however, that has all changed for me with the discovery of a wine and a varietal that are new to me. Falanghina is grape that is indigenous to Southern Italy. Once relegated to being a blending grape for many years, some producers have discovered in recent years that they can make some outstanding wines from 100% Falanghina. Thanks to some of my favorite retailers, I was introduced to the Terredora Di Paolo Falanghina this spring. If you happen to be in New York City, you can also find this by the glass at Wine:30 ( http://www.wine30nyc.com/index.html ), one of my favorite wine bars in the city.

Terredora di Paolo Falanghina 2009 comes from the Irpinia IGT which sits within the region of Campania in Southern Italy. In your glass the wine is pale straw in color. The bouquet brings aromas of citrus and pineapple. In your mouth you get a wine with a light-medium body with wonderful flavors of pineapple and lemon with hints of pear and light stone fruit. What I like best about this wine, though, is the crisp acidity that works together with the fruit to make this wine so enjoyable and refreshing on a hot summer day.

From a pairing standpoint, the Terredora di Paolo Falanghina 2009 would be perfect with some grilled mahi-mahi or any light fish or shellfish. At a price point of around $14, its also a pretty nice value.

Cheers!