Stefano Girelli - The Wine People
We have worked with Stefan Girelli for over 25 years, a relationship that has yielded many exceptional wines, from everyday drinking to fine Chianti estate wines. In 2009 Stefano established a new business called ‘The Wine People’ in partnership with Frenchman, Philippe Marx, and Dutchman Peter Kosten. They have combined their skill and experience to bring affordable good value wines from across Italy, with the help of renowned Italian winemaker Stefano Chioccioli who makes all the wines. (Please look separately for the superb Chiantis from Chioccioli.)
Tasting Notes
Straw yellow shot with green; very full and intensely fruity on the nose with exotic fruit such as melon and banana, featuring hints of citrus reminiscent of grapefruit. On the palate it is very well balanced, with a good acidity backbone and length.
Food Matches
A superb accompaniment to shellfish, fish and seafood. Pair also with white meat and cheese.
Vinification
The harvest is at night in order to preserve the freshness of the fruit, and in boxes of 5 kilos to store the integrity of the product. The pressing follows a cold maceration of the skins for 6-8 hours to extract as much of the flavour from the grape. Followed by soft pressing, static clarificatio of the must and fermentation. The fermentation process lasts 10-12 days at a temperature of 16-17°C. After fermentation, aging of the lees in stainless steel for 3 months.
Press Comments
Silver - International Wine & Spirit Competition 2017. 4 Stars - Harpers Wine Stars, 2018. The Times, July 2020, Top 100 Wines for Summer. Brian Elliott, Mid Week Wines, February 2021 "Drinking this soft and gently textured white from Southern Italy was likened by one commentator to getting an Italian “holiday vibe without the air travel”. While I cannot guarantee that effect, I can verify the high quality of the wine. Its minty, melon and pear flavours have an almost riesling-like acidity that works right through into the long finish where it contrasts attractively with the wine’s rich, savoury edges."