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    Saturday, May 04, 2024

    An $18 juicy, sustainable Sicilian white wine is a happy hour upgrade

    Two white wines from Italy headline our recommendations this week. They showcase Italy’s diversity and versatility with white wines to pair with antipasti, light pastas, salads and charcuterie. We finish with a savory Rhône-style blend from California winemaker Greg La Follette and his latest label, Marchelle.

    Planeta La Segreta Il Bianco 2021

    2-1/2 stars

    Sicily, Italy, $18

    Planeta, a leading producer in Sicily, offers this juicy blend of Italian and French grape varieties. The Italian components are grecanico and fiano, while chardonnay and viognier represent the tricolor. The result is a crisp white blend with flavors of lemongrass, citrus, white flowers and sage. It’s great by itself or as a partner to light snacks or mezze. Certified sustainable. Alcohol by volume: 12.5 percent. BW: 395 grams (Light).

    Suavia Soave Classico 2022

    3 stars

    Italy, $21

    Here’s a classic soave, with flavors of peach, citrus zest and herbs, accented by slight saline character. Salads, seafood salad or light pasta dishes are in order for this terrific wine. Certified organic. ABV: 12 percent. BW: 635 (Average).

    Marchelle Old Vine Family Cuvée 2021

    3-1/2 stars

    Mokelumne River, Lodi, Calif., $39

    This Rhône-style blend of cinsaut, zinfandel and carignan hails from the Mokelumne River AVA of Lodi. The zinfandel gives it a decidedly juicy American accent. The savory flavors and velvety texture call for hearty meals, such as a Thanksgiving dinner. Marchelle is the newest label from winemaker Greg La Follette. The line includes a chardonnay ($45) and a pinot noir ($65). All are outstanding. ABV: 14.6 percent. BW: 585 grams (Average).

    Prices are approximate. For availability, check Wine.com, Wine-searcher.com and the websites and social media feeds of the wineries, importers, distributors, and your favorite local wine store.

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