Roero Arneis, Bruno Giacosa 2024 75cl
Bruno Giacosa is a name most people associate with towering Barolo, so it surprises them to learn the estate also makes one of Piedmont's most delicious whites. This Roero Arneis 2024 is proof that a great red house can turn its precision to a crisp, aromatic white with real charm.
Arneis is a native Piedmontese grape grown in the sandy soils of the Roero hills, on the left bank of the Tanaro river opposite Barolo and Barbaresco. Nearly lost in the twentieth century, it was revived by growers like Giacosa, who saw its potential for fresh, perfumed whites. This is unoaked, vinified in stainless steel to keep the fruit clean and bright.
Expect ripe pear and white peach, a lift of chamomile and almond blossom, and a gently nutty, savoury note that sets Arneis apart from more obvious whites. The palate is dry and textured with soft, rounded acidity and a subtle bitter-almond twist on the close. Approachable, but never simple.
At around £24 this is a lovely aperitif and an easy food white that drinks above its price. No need to age it — Arneis is at its best young and fresh, so enjoy this over the next year or two.
How to Serve
Serve well chilled at 8–10°C in a standard white wine glass. No decanting required — just pull it from the fridge and pour.
Where to Drink It
Bocca di Lupo, Soho — an aperitivo natural. Lina Stores, Soho — the kind of light Italian food it loves. Trullo, Islington — for the antipasti course.
Food Pairings
Perfect with a plate of fritto misto or lightly fried calamari. It also sings alongside a creamy risotto primavera.
