Cantine Antonio Mazzella, Biancolella 2020

Cantine Antonio Mazzella was founded in 1940 by Nicola Mazzela on Ischia, an island that sits just off of the west coast of Italy near Naples. The family’s second and third generation now run the property. While the winemaking happens on the southern side of the island, the vineyards can only be reached on foot, with all the harvesting, crushing and pressing done by hand. Because of the soil and heat, the vines are low yielding so winemaking is particularly strenuous. Mazzella focuses on two native grape varieties, biancolella and forastera wines, both of which are thought to be distantly related to Greek white grape varieties and are primarily grown on Ischia. 

This beautiful savory white is simultaneously elegant and bold. The texture is silky and full bodied with aromas of palo santo and green herbs. The palate has a fresh snap pea finish with a touch of nectarine. Truly a wine in it’s own category.