Hey there, wine enthusiasts! Today, let’s take a journey into the fascinating realm of Arneis, a white wine grape variety that has an intriguing story. It boasts unique flavors, history, and versatility. Have you ever heard of Arneis? If not, you’re not alone! We’re about to dive into everything you need to know about this captivating grape. From its humble beginnings to its role in creating that perfect glass of wine, Arneis is full of surprises, shall we?

Unveiling the History of Arneis

The word “Arneis” actually translates to “little rascal” in the Piedmontese dialect, and this grape lived up to its name. Originating in the Roero hills of the Piedmont region of Italy, it is referenced as far back as the 15th century. With a reputation as a bit of a troublemaker, the Arneis grape almost went extinct between the 1960s and 1970s. Arneis was a rare find, often blended with Nebbiolo to soften the tannins in iconic Barolo and Barbaresco wines. In the 1970s, Alfredo Currado of Vietti and Bruno Giacosa set out to give Arneis the spotlight it deserved. They wanted to showcase its elegance and boy, did they succeed!

Getting to Know The Flavors

Now, what you’ve all likely been waiting to discuss – the taste! Arneis wines have a way of surprising you with their intricate aromas and flavors. Close your eyes and take a sniff. You’ll be met with a symphony of fragrances that tease your senses. Ponder the delicate scents of white flowers and citrus blossoms dancing around. 

Then, the first sip will have you savoring the sweet caress of peaches, crisp apples, and apricots with a zesty twist of citrus swirling on your tongue. And the finish? It’s like a whispered promise that lingers, inviting you to savor every drop. The best part is the wine’s moderate acidity and subtle minerality provide a refreshing and crisp character, while its medium body contributes to a velvety mouthfeel. Arneis’s allure lies in its ability to balance these elements, resulting in a harmonious and sophisticated sensory experience.

Crafting the Magic: Arneis Wine Production

Now, let’s pull back the curtain on how Arneis goes from vine to glass. First things first, these grapes are handpicked to ensure their unique character is preserved. After a gentle crush, the juice embarks on its fermentation journey, usually in stainless steel tanks. Why? Well, that’s to maintain those fruity and fresh flavors we adore. Some winemakers even throw in a bit of malolactic fermentation to give the wine that extra touch of silkiness.

Fun fact, Arneis is a multi-talented wine grape! Arneis’s appeal isn’t limited to single-varietal wines. Its alluring qualities have led winemakers to explore its potential in blends, where it can contribute unique dimensions to the final product. When incorporated into blends, Arneis brings a vibrant fruitiness, an engaging floral character, and a graceful acidity that lifts the overall composition.

Serve it Right: Temperature and Pairing

Alright, let’s get technical for a moment. The right serving temperature can make all the difference. You’ll want to keep your Arneis chilled to around 45°F to 50°F (7°C to 10°C). This ensures you’re enjoying all those enchanting aromas and flavors to the fullest – a sip of perfection in every glass.

Let’s talk food, my favorite part! Arneis is like that friend who gets along with everyone. Seafood fan? It loves grilled prawns and zesty ceviche. Pasta aficionado? Creamy fettuccine Alfredo is its jam. And oh, the adventures it has with salads, roasted chicken, and even sushi! Arneis’s versatile nature means you’re never short of pairing possibilities.

From Italy to California: The Journey

While Arneis’s origins belong to Italy’s Piedmont, it’s been spreading its wings, making its way to regions like California. The sunny climate and soil in regions like Sonoma County and Paso Robles give Arneis a chance to shine. Arneis has found a second home, bringing a touch of Italian elegance to California’s vineyards.

Speaking of Califonia vineyards, let’s raise our glasses to our very own, 2021 Olsen Ovation! This beauty gives a nod to Arneis with a 15% blend, showcasing the grape’s unique allure. With its floral aromas, juicy stone fruit notes, and signature acidity, it’s a testament to the magic this grape brings to a blend.

So there you have it – the captivating journey of Arneis, from its mischievous beginnings to its triumphant resurgence. The next time you’re sipping a glass of Arneis or a blend, take a moment to appreciate the history, the flavors, and the dedication that goes into each bottle. Today, it stands as a symbol of Piedmontese winemaking heritage and is recognized as a white wine of elegance and distinction.

Here’s to embracing the charm of this “little rascal” and to the countless joyous sips it brings to our lives.