The Val d'Aosta is a high valley in the Italian Alps, very close to the French border. It is the smallest and least populous region in Italy. Winemaking in the valley is done on a relatively small scale, but the average level of quality in Aosta is quite high. Cooperative wineries dominate the landscape here, as vineyard plots tend to be very small, and one family would typically not have a quantity of grapes great enough to justify a winery. Thus families band together and send their grapes to one local facility to make wine. La Crotta de Vegneron is one such cooperative, and we always jump on their new releases. We also move fast when we can get a special deal on their wines, hence the email about the last of their fabulous 2019 Muller Thurgau, which recently arrived at a reduced price.
La Crotta de Vegneron Müller Thurgau 2019 - $12 (regular price $16)
Wines from the Val d'Aosta are easily $20+, so this was quite a deal at $16. At $12, it is not to be missed. Aromas of citrus, yellow apple, tropical fruits, ethereal flowers, spices and herbs. This is not a million miles away from a juicy Sauvignon Blanc, but the overall impression is more airy and fresh than most Sauvignon. Fresh and lively on the palate, with juicy fruit and stony flavors lingering on the crisp finish.