What to Pair Your Arneis With

3 Recipes for Arneis

Frittata or other egg-based dishes

Frittata or other egg-based dishes

Description :

The wine’s aromatic qualities complement the herbs and delicate flavors of frittata, making it an excellent brunch pairing.

Roasted chicken with pear and thyme stuffing

Roasted chicken with pear and thyme stuffing

Description :

The fruit-forward and rounded characteristics of Arneis enhance the flavors of the roast and the herbal stuffing, creating a harmonious match.

Seared scallops or light seafood dishes

Seared scallops or light seafood dishes

Description :

The wine’s acidity and minerality cut through the richness of the scallops, enhancing their natural sweetness.

More on Arneis

Arneis

Arneis is a white wine grape variety native to the Piedmont region of Northwestern Italy, particularly in the Roero hills. Known as “little rascal” due to its difficulty to grow, Arneis was once nearly extinct but has experienced a resurgence thanks to dedicated vintners. The wine is primarily produced in Roero DOCG and Langhe DOC, and it is valued for its aromatic qualities, featuring a balance of fruitiness and minerality. Arneis wines are generally enjoyed young to preserve their freshness and vibrant flavors.

Appearance:

  • Color: Pale green to light golden, reflecting its crisp and refreshing nature.
  • Opacity: Clear and bright, often with a slight shimmer, which indicates a fresh, vibrant wine.

Aroma:

  • Primary Aromas: Green apple, pear, and stone fruits such as peach and apricot.
  • Secondary Aromas: Floral notes like honeysuckle, white flowers, and hints of citrus such as lemon and tangerine.
  • Tertiary Aromas: In some cases, aged Arneis wines may develop subtle hints of hazelnut, almond, and minerality, especially in examples aged in oak.

Flavor Profile:

  • Fruit Flavors: Predominantly pear, apple, apricot, and lemon. In some expressions, you may also find notes of lime and orange peel.
  • Other Flavors: Arneis often exhibits flavors of almonds, hazelnuts, and a hint of minerality, adding depth to the palate. A subtle saltiness may also be present, contributing to its refreshing finish.
  • Oak Influence: Most Arneis wines are unoaked to maintain their fresh and fruity profile. However, some producers do age Arneis in oak barrels, which can impart additional creaminess and vanilla notes, creating a fuller-bodied wine.

Structure:

  • Body: Light to medium-bodied, often described as having a crisp, clean finish with a slightly waxy texture.
  • Tannins: Low, typical for a white wine.
  • Acidity: Medium to high, providing a bright and refreshing profile.
  • Alcohol: Around 12.5% to 13.5%

Malbec wine offers a complex and satisfying experience, making it a favorite among red wine enthusiasts and an excellent choice for various culinary pairings.

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