Nardini - Bianca 50 'Classic'

Far and away Italy's best-selling premium grappa, Nardini Bianca remains unchallenged as the connoisseur's benchmark.

Authentically high in strength, 'Bianca' fills the palate with an exciting sparkle, then - largely thanks to its fine balance and extraordinary distillation quality - surprises the drinker with its remarkably gentle follow-through. It's not hard to appreciate why this grappa continues to be valued for its digestive capabilities as well as its excellent flavour.

Scored a coveted 'Silver' in the 2006 International Wine & Spirit Competition.

Ideal drinking temperature : chilled to between 8 and 10 degrees C (46-50 degrees F) or freezer-chilled. Nose : Initial hint of raclette, jasmine tea, dried lemon zest, lemon meringue, rounded and fruity with acacia honey notes. Palate : smooth, mellow, opening up with jasmine tea, cinnamon, lemon zest, acacia honey and gingerbread, nicely layered with fresh jasmine tea coming back to the fore. Finish : jasmine tea and lemon meringue, with hints of gingerbread and lemon curd.

( Tasting notes by Ian Wisniewski, London, June 2003 )