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~ Cinque Terre ~ (image courtesy of Bryan M. Gibbs) |
Consistency should be applauded and in a vintage as lousy as 2014 was in Tuscany, the subject of today’s article stands proudly. Last week I covered the Castello Banfi Centine Rose and today, it’s sibling Centine Bianco.
Versatile and lively, I originally opened the wine as an aperitif, but many of the guests enjoyed it so much that we carried it on through appetizers and dinner. The value is great here too, as the wine is obtainable for under $12.
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~ Pasta this fresh and delicious should be illegal ~ |
The 2014 Banfi Centino Bianco is a blend of 40% Sauvignon Blanc, 30% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Grigio. We popped and poured. In the glass, the wine is a pale straw to light gold color and hints at the refreshment to come. Aromas are rather complex for the price point with melon, straw, newly mown grass, and lemon citrus notes easy to discern.
On the palate this crisp wine is slightly off dry with notes of citrus fruit, white flowers, and lovely fresh acidity. The Chardonnay in the blend contributes body to the wine, so this is more substantial than one would expect. Perfect with seafood pasta, pesto, goat cheese or by itself on the patio. I’ll be keeping some in the refrigerator all summer long. 87 points. Disclosure: This bottle was an importer provided sample.
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~ Centine defies the lousy vintage and is crisp, delicious and refreshing ~ |
Salute!
One of your most beautifully presented dishes!
Ha! I don't disagree amico but I can't take credit for that one. That's from a professional chef. Though I'd like to think I could make that.