Roero Arneis | Grape Variety
Arneis is a white grape variety believed to originate from the Piedmont region of northern Italy. The name Arneis literally means 'the little rascal', as the grape variety is very finicky to grow. It is often susceptible to disease in the vineyard and has difficulty maintaining its acidity if not grown in the right climate. But when done right, it can produce a beautiful, fragrant wine with texture and great acidity.
Arneis can be described as a cross between Riesling, with its mineral flinty acidity, and Sauvignon Blanc, with its rich texture. It has a chalky tannic structure and high acidity, making it an ideal food wine. Arneis produces very fragrant wines with notes of pear and apple. The elegance of the aroma hides the fact that the wines have a medium to full flavor with pear, apple, stone fruit and nutty notes.
With its rich flavor profile, Arneis appeals to anyone who loves fruit-driven Chardonnay or Verdelho.Outside of Roero, Arneis wines are grown in the southern Langhe hills and in the northeastern Terre Alfieri (near Asti). - Gerardo
