Tasting notes:

This outstanding white wine from Inama was our highestscoring sample of this year’s competition, gaining a Grand Master accolade. Hailing from the volcanic soils of Soave, but using Sauvignon Blanc – in place of Garganega – it breaks the appellation rules, and hence the Soave name does not feature on the label. But clearly Sauvignon Blanc is well-suited to the area, based on this wine’s amazing array of appealing flavours. Barrel-influenced, there is some creaminess to the taste, and toastiness to the aromatics, but the core characters are passion fruit and peach, apricot and mango, complemented by candied citrus, while the finish features a mix of grilled lemon, salt crystals and crushed rocks – and even a touch of chalky-textured tannins to make the mouth water. (Patrick Schmitt MW)