Arneis is a compelling white grape variety native to the Piedmont region in northwest Italy. After having gracefully escaped near extinction in the 1960s, thanks to a handful of dedicated winemakers, it's now celebrated as one of the region's most unique and special assets. The name Arneis, quite fittingly, translates to "little rascal" in Piemontese dialect, perfectly reflecting the inherent challenges it presents to winemakers due to its delicate character and capricious growing tendencies.
The Arneis grape produces delicate and subtly complex white wines, often full-bodied and offering a surprisingly rich, silky texture. Typically, Arneis wines possess a charismatic bright straw-yellow hue, with compelling aromas of pears, apricots, peaches, and an enticing bouquet of white blossoms. The palate often exposes enticing notes of fresh citrus and stone fruits along with some nutty undertones, enclosed by a crisp acidity and an occasional subtle mineral bite.
With its somewhat low acidity and voluptuous body, Arneis is distinctly different from many other Italian white wine grapes, offering a lusciously round and generally softer, more mellow drinking experience. This, paired with its delightful fruit-forward character, makes Arneis a delightful aperitif and a versatile companion for a variety of dishes, particularly seafood, pasta, and lightly spiced dishes.
Arneis' resurrection can be mainly linked to the DOCG appellation Roero. The mineral-rich soil, tempered by the Tanaro River, appears to be highly beneficial for the Arneis vines, providing the grape with a perfect platform to produce expressive, fragrant, and unique wines.
Whilst the majority of Arneis wines are traditionally made, an increasing number of winemakers are exploring combinations with barrel ageing, producing wines with more complexity and longevity. Recognition of the role Arneis plays in producing exquisite wines has expanded outside of Italy too, with wineries in Australia, California, and New Zealand now taking a keen interest in this charming "little rascal."
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