W3 Wine School

Arneis (Italy)

Arneis is an Italian grape from Piemonte in northern Italy.

Arneis Flavors

Citrus, Apple, ripe Pear, and Apricot are typical Arneis flavors.

With hints of Flowers, Anis, Mint, and a bitter Almond aftertaste.

Lime
Lime
Apple
Apple
Pear
Pear
Peach
Peach
Apricot
Apricot
Flowers
Flowers
Mint
Mint
Almonds
Almonds

Arneis Profile

Arneis is fresh and fruity with medium acidity:

SUGAR:Dry 3g/l
BODY:Light
FRUIT:Medium
ACIDITY:Medium
ALCOHOL:11-13% ABV
Temperature Serving temperature:
8-10°C (46-50°F)

The Ideal Glass for Arneis

The Sauvignon Blanc glass is smaller than a Chardonnay glass.

It has a more narrow bowl to concentrate the crisp and citrusy aromas characteristic of zesty and fruity white wines.

Arneis Food Pairing

In Piemonte Arneis is served with Antipasti, Fish, Pasta, Asparagus and Vegetarian dishes.

On the Ligurian coast it is often the preferred wine with white fish.

Aperitif
Aperitif
Antipasti
Antipasti
Vegetarian
Vegetarian
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled
Vegetables
Olive Oil
Olive Oil
Asparagus
Asparagus
Fish
Fish
Pasta
Seafood
Pasta
Spaghetti
Spaghetti
Risotto
Risotto
Chicken
Chicken
Turkey
Turkey

Excellent Pairings

Aperitif.
Italian Antipasti.
Vinaigrettes. Asparagus. Fennel.
Salads. Waldorf Salad.
Seafood Pasta with Garlic.
Plain Fish. Calamari.
Cheese Sauces. Pasta with Cheese.
Cheese Risotto with Hazelnuts.
White Meat. Chicken. Turkey.
Chicken in Citrus Sauce.
Cooked or Cured Ham.
Veal and Pork in Creamy Sauce.

Cheeses

Creamy Cheese. Feta. Brie. Camembert. Mozzarella.
Soft Cheese. Asiago. Emmental. Gouda.

Piemonte Spesialities

Spaghetti alla Carbonara.
Kale Pesto Tortellini (in Herbs, Nuts, and Cheese Sauce).
Chicken in White Wine Sauce.
Spaghetti with Garlic and Olive Oil.
Bagna Cauda (Vegetables in Warm Anchovy and Olive Sauce).
Risotto Primavera (Asparagus, Peas, Zucchini).

Ligurian Spesialities

Grilled fish with Lemon and Basil.
Vitello Tonnato (Cold Veal topped with thick Tuna Sauce.

Arneis Cheese Pairing

Arneis is known for its crisp and fruity profile. It pairs well with a variety of cheeses.

Opt for cheeses with moderate saltiness and creaminess to balance the wine's acidity. You can also add accompaniments like fresh fruits (grapes, apples, pears), nuts (almonds, walnuts), and a light drizzle of honey to enhance the pairing.

Fresh and Mild Cheeses

Mozzarella: Its delicate flavor pairs well with the wine's lightness.

Ricotta: Especially good if served with a drizzle of honey or fresh fruits.

Goat Cheese (Chèvre): The tanginess complements the subtle fruit notes in Arneis.

Semi-Soft Cheeses

Fontina: Its nutty, buttery qualities make a good match.

Brie: The creamy texture and mild flavor work beautifully with Arneis.

Camembert: Similar to Brie but with slightly more earthiness.

Hard Cheeses

Asiago: Lightly aged Asiago adds a complementary tang to the wine.

Manchego: A classic Spanish pairing, especially younger Manchego, which is less intense.

Gruyère: Mildly nutty and sweet, enhancing the wine's subtlety.

Blue Cheeses (for contrast)

Robiola: Its mild creaminess contrasts nicely without overpowering the wine.

If You Like Arneis

You May Also Like:

Altesse (France)
Arneis (Italy)
Chenin Blanc Dry (France)
Douro Branco (Portugal)
Etna Bianco (Italy)
Falangina (Italy)
Fiano (Italy)
Kerner (Germany)
Riesling (Alsace, France)
Rousette (France)
Roupeiro (Portugal)
Vermentino (Italy)
Verdicchio (Italy)

About Arneis

Arneis is common in the hills of the Roero, northwest of Alba, where it is part of the DOCG wines of Roero.

Arneis means "little rascal", and got this name because it is difficult to cultivate.

Arneis DOC(G)

Most notable regions:

* Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita.

Soil

Climate

Soil

Lime-Rich.
Calcareous Marl.

Soil

Cool/Mild Continental.
Hot and Dry Summers.
Cold and Wet Winters.
Rainy / Foggy Sping.


DOCG Regions in Piemonte


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