Cabreo La Pietra Chardonnay is a luxurious expression of Tuscan winemaking, crafted from handpicked Chardonnay grapes grown at high elevations in Panzano, Chianti. Its rich, velvety profile reveals an array of complex aromas, including floral and tropical notes, chamomile, and subtle hints of vanilla, spices, and butter. On the palate, it provides a harmonious balance of crisp acidity, minerality, and a long, smooth finish that pairs beautifully with white meats, seafood, and aged cheeses. Aged in oak and fine lees, this brilliant straw-yellow wine showcases the elegance and innovation of the region's first white Supertuscan.
Process & Profile
Cabreo La Pietra Chardonnay is a distinguished white wine crafted in Tuscany, Italy, with roots tracing back to its inaugural vintage in 1983. This wine stands out due to its use of high-elevation Chardonnay vineyards situated 450 meters (1,476 feet) above sea level, which impart a cool-climate freshness and balanced acidity to its grapes. The handpicked fruit undergoes gentle pressing followed by cold settling. The must is fermented in oak barrels, then aged on fine lees with regular stirring to enhance complexity and aromatic richness. Before release, the wine matures for at least six months in the bottle, ensuring exceptional flavor integration and balance.
Tasting Notes
Cabreo La Pietra Chardonnay tantalizes the senses with a brilliant straw-yellow hue. On the nose, it reveals intense aromas of chamomile, dried tea, honey, sage, and a refreshing medley of citrus, including citron and lemon peel. The palate offers a velvety complexity with notes of spices, vanilla, and butter, alongside tropical fruit highlights and acacia flowers. Its finish is crisp and mineral-rich, leaving a memorable impression of freshness and elegance.
What Makes It Special
La Pietra is celebrated as the first "white Supertuscan," a groundbreaking innovation in the Chianti wine scene. It combines Old World craftsmanship with a modern approach, aging Chardonnay in oak barrels traditionally reserved for Tuscany's iconic red wines. This marriage of rich winemaking traditions and innovative techniques results in a wine noted for its impressive structure, depth, and long aging potential of up to 15 years. Its name, "Pietra," meaning "stone" in Italian, reflects its enduring character and its terroir-driven minerality.
How to Enjoy
Cabreo La Pietra Chardonnay is a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Its crisp acidity and layered profile make it an ideal companion for white meats, fish, shellfish, and aged cheeses. Serve it chilled at around 10–12°C (50–53.6°F) to fully appreciate its nuanced aromas and flavors. This wine is equally perfect for celebratory occasions or as a luxurious everyday indulgence.
Experience the essence of Tuscany through Cabreo La Pietra Chardonnay—a wine that harmoniously bridges tradition and innovation in every sip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the origin of Cabreo La Pietra Chardonnay?
Cabreo La Pietra Chardonnay is produced in Tuscany, Italy. Its grapes are grown on high-elevation vineyards in Panzano in Chianti, an area known for its cool-climate freshness and balancing acidity.
What does Cabreo La Pietra Chardonnay taste like?
This wine offers a rich and complex flavor profile with aromas of floral and tropical fruits complemented by notes of vanilla, butter, spices, and honey. On the palate, it balances velvety richness, minerality, and crisp acidity, with hints of citrus, chamomile, and dried tea.
What makes Cabreo La Pietra Chardonnay unique?
La Pietra is notable for being Tuscany's first "Supertuscan" white wine, created in 1983 using vinification and aging techniques typically reserved for great Tuscan red wines. It is aged in oak barrels and on fine lees to develop its complex flavors and creamy texture.
How should Cabreo La Pietra Chardonnay be served?
This wine is best enjoyed slightly chilled. For optimal taste, serve oaked Chardonnay, like Cabreo La Pietra, at around 54°F (12°C) to enhance its creamy texture and complex flavors.
How long can Cabreo La Pietra Chardonnay be aged?
This Chardonnay has an impressive aging potential of up to 15 years, thanks to its complexity and structure. Its flavors may continue to evolve and deepen over time.
What foods pair well with Cabreo La Pietra Chardonnay?
Cabreo La Pietra pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, including white meats, roasted chicken, pork, shellfish (such as scampi), creamy pastas, and aged cheeses. Its rich, buttery notes make it an excellent match for dishes prepared with butter or cream.
How is Cabreo La Pietra Chardonnay made?
The Chardonnay grapes are handpicked, gently pressed, and fermented in oak barrels. The wine undergoes aging on fine lees with periodic stirring, enriching its aromas and texture. Before release, it spends a minimum of six months aging in bottles.
What is the meaning behind the name "La Pietra"?
The name "La Pietra" translates to "The Stone" in Italian, a reference to the terroir and strong foundation of the wine's character.
Is Cabreo La Pietra suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! With its impressive balance of fruity, creamy, and complex flavors, Cabreo La Pietra Chardonnay is an excellent choice for celebratory meals or special gatherings, especially when paired with indulgent dishes like lobster or smoked meats.