A very classy example of cool-climate Italian Chardonnay from the Monferatto hills in eastern Piemonte.

This shows fresh citrus fruit on the nose with lightly herbal notes. On the palate it has crunchy Bramley apple characters, stone fruit, minerality in the background, a lemony finish and crisp acidity.

Araldica is Piemonte's most forward-thinking co-operative, situated in Castel Boglione, in the heart of Barbera d'Asti territory. Here they work with 230 grower members to source quality grapes from around 690ha of vineyards. Many of their members joined the co-operative in the 1950s and have a long and loyal relationhip with the winery.

Founded in 1954 by Livio Manera, father of the current Managing Director and winemaker Claudio Manera, Araldica has developed over the past 60+ years to become a major winemaking force in Piemonte, supplying wines across the globe. Claudio's wife Lella heads up quality control at Araldica, where she is responsible for the blending and approval of all wines.

Their son Carlo, also a qualified winemaker, is now part of the Araldica winemaking team. Livio pioneered developments in winemaking techniques - especially with regard to the production of Barbera - and Araldica have since continued to be instrumental in the distribution of Barbera and Gavi within the UK market and internationally. As Claudio states their aim is "...to provide a range that is both understandable and accessible. Quite simply, wine for drinking and enjoying."

Cultivated in the Monferatto hills in the south of the province of Asti, Piemonte on southwest facing vineyards at altitudes between 250 and 400m. The soils here are a rich combination of limestone and clay. Piemonte low Guyot trellis system is used for vines. 100% tank fermented under temperature control with 3 months on the lees.

Great served as an aperitif, or with seafood or caesar salad.