Antonio Vallana e Figlio Erbaluce Innominato Piedmont 2021

New on our site and “beautifully done” as Vinous’ 92 point review said: a blithe and bracing white made from the indigenous Erbaluce grape in far northern Italy. UNDER $20 – you have to try it.

Now THIS is the mood we want to be in! We have a bright, refreshing, aromatic elixir made by Antonio Vallana e Figlio (“e Figlio” means “and Son”) in Alto Piemonte, 35 miles from the Swiss border. The historic estate is tucked into volcanic, mineral-rich foothills where the vineyard blocks are mostly terraced. A delightfully ornate, monastic-looking old building rises above the vines. On a clear day, there are spine-tingling panoramic views of snowy Alpine peaks. The hills are edged with brushy forest, and the tone here is a little wilder and freer than in more manicured regions like Barolo. Every sip of this 2021 has that exhilarating sense of place: freshness, texture, fruit trees, clean air thrilling your lungs on a sunny mountain trail. Yes please!

For only $19.95 on two or more, you’re getting “a good deal of personality” as Vinous wrote. The playful character, vibrant acid, and mineral nuance are altogether balanced and supremely drinkable. Notes of freshly sliced apple and salty seashells are followed by pine forest, orange peel, lemon olive oil cake, and rosemary. And we have to say: there’s a hint of Orange Julius taking us back to ‘90s mall-walking in the best way. But skip the Sbarro and open this with trout and herbed butter. We think you’re going to really enjoy introducing the Erbaluce grape to your friends.

The Vallana name has been linked to winemaking in Alto Piemonte since the late 18th century, and the estate remains family-run. This bottle checks all the boxes and then some, including 92 points and nearly 56% off. Get plenty!