Allegrini Soave Oasi San Giacomo D.O.C. 2025, 0,75 L

If you’re in the mood for an uncomplicated but truly excellent white wine from northern Italy, you’ve come to the right place. The Soave Oasi San Giacomo comes from the Allegrini winery, which is best known in Veneto for its superb Amarone – and proves that the family also knows its craft when it comes to fresh white wines.

The grapes grow on the hills between Lavagno and Mezzane di Sotto, around 150 metres above sea level, in south-west-facing volcanic soil. This is the very heart of the Soave region. After harvesting, the must is briefly macerated at cool temperatures; the wine then ferments in stainless-steel tanks and matures for a few more months on the fine lees – ensuring the fruit remains beautifully present.

In the glass, you’ll find notes of elderflower, lemon and ripe yellow apple, accompanied by a crisp acidity that really makes you look forward to the next sip. On the palate, it’s juicy and mineral, with a long, salty finish that recalls the volcanic soil from which it originates.

It’s at its best with saffron risotto, seafood spaghetti or grilled fish. It also pairs superbly with a chicken salad with fennel and orange – or simply on its own on a balmy evening.