The follow-up to Babo’s superb inaugural release, the 2022 Soave is predominantly Garganega, with a small parcel of Trebbiano di Soave. Both varieties are sourced from vineyards in Bardolino and Valpolicella with volcanic soils and elevations ranging from 40 to 120 metres. The dry summer conditions in 2022 led to an earlier-than-usual harvest, and though yields were down, Justin Bubb tells us the fruit quality was exceptional. After a gentle press and short maceration on skins to bring more texture and complexity, the juice fermented in stainless steel tanks, followed by six months’ maturation on light lees.
Soave’s long road to redemption is well under way, and now Babo has joined the fray. It’s another delicately delicious white: juicy and vibrant, full of citrus and flowers with touches of salt and wax and a lovely bright finish. Like all Babo's wines, it’s versatile and perfect for a crowd. It drinks well as an aperitif, but shellfish pasta or roasted asparagus (with plenty of Parmesan) would be our go-to.