This was the first Chardonnay produced in Apulia, and perhaps in all of southern Italy. It testifies to Rivera's long, patient experimentation and efforts to transplant chardonnay to the new terroir of the Castel del Monte area, carried out in the 1980s. Chardonnay planted in this Mediterranean climate demonstrates characteristics that enrich those traditional to the French noble variety.

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GROWING AREA
Commune of Andria, in the "Castel del Monte" D.O.C. area.

GRAPE VARIETIES
100% Chardonnay.

VINEYARDS
Planted at an altitude of 350 metres on rocky soils, the vineyard is trained to spurred cordon at a density of 4,800 vines/hectare. Yields are kept to 90-100 q/h.

VINIFICATION
The grapes are picked between the first and second week of August. The settled must is inoculated with cultured yeasts, and then ferments for about 10 days at 18°C in stainless-steel tanks.

MATURATION
The wine matures on the fine lees for 3-4 months to develop complexity and aromatic richness, and undergoes complete malolactic fermentation. It is released in the spring following harvest.

TECHNICAL DATA
Alcohol 13%; total acidity 5.80 g/l; pH 3.35; residual sugar 2.8 g/l.; total S0₂ 80 mg/l.

TASTING NOTES
Deep straw yellow; rich, complex nose, with crisp-edged, fruity aromas of pear and peach blossom; clean and refreshing on the palate, with generous fruit, concluding with a lingering, very rich finish.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Ideal when paired with seafood antipasti, and even seasoned veal and poultry first courses. Well chilled, makes a delicious aperitif.

STORING
Preludio N° 1's exceptional structure allows it to mature gracefully in the bottle for up to three years from harvest date.