Scaia Garganega Chardonnay 2010

Scaia Garganega Chardonnay 2010
Italy, $18

Italy’s a funny place for wine—even the most obscure white grape has been adopted by some region of the country. Veneto in the north makes stellar wines—always bracing but well balanced—and it’s one of the few places where the garganega grape is grown. This varietal is best known for making the ubiquitous Soave, which can be dull but when made right is a heady, complex wine with waves of flavour. Scaia’s winemaker, Tenuta Sant’Antonio, adds some chardonnay and trebbiano to the mix, resuling in an acidic, cool wine that’s both bracing and full. It lives to be enjoyed on a sun-drenched patio with a simple dinner of pasta with fresh vegetables.