Querciabella Batàr 2020
Unanimously considered one of Italy’s greatest whites, Batàr is graceful and polished, with vibrant minerality. A blend of Chardonnay (50%) and Pinot Blanc (50%) Batàr has been described as “a dream of a white” by world renowned wine writer Hugh Johnson, though perhaps not only for its richness, complexity and length but also for its cellaring potential. This barrique fermented ‘white Super-Tuscan’ reaches full maturity about 42 months after harvest, while its maturity plateau spans from four to twelve years after vintage. The vineyards from which Batàr originates have been organically farmed since the wine’s first vintage in 1988, before a full conversion to biodynamic techniques in 2000. It is best to consume Batàr once the wine has reached maturity, approximately three and a half to four years after harvest. The wine’s maturity plateau is four to thirty years or more after harvest. No animal products or byproducts are used in the production of this wine, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Straw yellow with golden reflections. Intense aromas of orange blossom and citrus peel loom over an exotic bouquet of tropical fruit: mango, papaya, passion fruit. Notes of iodine and toasted bread spread with vegetable butter add aromatic complexity. It is a full-bodied, elegant wine with great freshness; the rich palate recalls tropical fruit with a touch of oriental spice on the very persistent finish—great vintage, perfect balance.
