Groppello del Garda Classico 'Ander' Saottini 2023

The Riviera del Garda Classico Groppello ‘Ander’ is a label with distinct fruity and spicy aromas that originates on the beautiful shores of Lake Garda by the Saottini estate. Groppello is a black grape variety widespread along the entire southwestern shore of Lake Garda, whose name seems to derive from the dialectal term "grop," meaning "knot," referring to the characteristic shape of the clusters that almost seem tied to each other. Rather popular until the second half of the 19th century, this variety took a back seat after the phylloxera crisis, a period during which it was replaced by international grape varieties, a trend that affected many Italian indigenous grape varieties during that time.

‘Ander’ Saottini Groppello Riviera del Garda Classico is made from a solid base of Groppello grapes combined with 15% Marzemino, varieties cultivated in the Valtenesi territorial context. The harvest is carried out by hand in crates and is followed by destemming of the clusters, accompanied by minimal pressing. Alcoholic fermentation takes place at controlled temperature through the inoculation of selected yeasts, with a long maceration on the skins. Subsequently, the wine is aged for 9 months in cement barrels, and after further resting in the bottle, it is finally ready for commercial release.

The Groppello ‘Ander’ Riviera del Garda Classico by Saottini has an intense ruby red color. The aroma offers interesting hints of ripe berries that blend with floral notes and delicate spicy nuances. Despite its significant softness and richness on the palate, it remains fresh and easy to drink, with a finish of good tannic persistence in which the fruity sensations perceived earlier on the nose reappear.