2012 Castello di Pomino Bianco

The venerable house Marchesi de Frescobaldi has been in the wine business in Tuscany for seven centuries. I've talked about the family history before--trading Michelangelo wine for paintings, ledgers that still list sales to Henry VIII, etc. There are not that many industries out there that are growing, have new companies coming into the market every year, and yet still have established brands going back so long. It also makes me wonder which American producers will still be going strong in the 28th century.

The Pomino DOC is much younger by comparison, established in the 1970s and permitting the use of traditionally French grapes in both red and white blends. This is my first exposure to this particular DOC, and I was pleased with the style. This particular wine is aged in stainless steel with a small amount held in French barriques for three months.

2012 Castello di Pomino Bianco
Pomino DOC
Chardonnay and Pinot Bianco with other unspecified white grapes
$15, 12.5% abv.

Gentle aromas of melon. The nose opens up with floral notes, while on the palate there is light white fruit flavors and with a chalky element that is enticing. Medium acidity and a soft mineral finish. Great complexity at an affordable price point. I'd recommend it along with clams and pasta with lots of garlic.

Note: This wine was provided as a sample for review.