Alpha Zeta S" Soave"

Alpha Zeta was started in 1999 when Liberty Wines set out to produce a range of modern, fruit-driven wines from the hills outside Verona. Working with leading New Zealand winemaker, Matt Thomson, our aim was to work with growers (rather than buy bulk wine, which is standard among most wines from Verona at this price) to obtain ripe grapes (by reducing yields and picking later) and then, using Matt's expertise, preserve these flavours in the finished wines. The result is a realisation of the potential inherent in Veronese viniculture.

Vineyards

Grapes are sourced from hillside vineyards in the Soave area, where the climate is moderate. The volcanic soil is poor and granitic so the vines are put under stress helping to produce superior quality fruit.

Vinification

The grapes were hand harvested, destemmed, crushed and pumped to the press with no sulphur addition. The juice was chilled immediately and naturally settled. Cultured yeasts were added to initiate fermentation, which took place at low temperatures (12-14°C) in order to retain fruit flavours. The wine remained in tank until bottling to maximise freshness.

Tasting Notes

This is a pale lemon coloured wine, with clean, bright aromas of almond blossom. With fresh acidity, the palate is ripe and concentrated, full of apple and pear flavours. The finish is lively and crisp.