The 2010 Santa Chiara pours into the glass with amber, golden intensity and flows forth with thick, supple concentration. The 2010 vintage is exceptionally balanced and tight with an initial prelude of crushed mineral and etched brimstone that sets a somber tone. The bouquet is neutral and unexpressive at first. But after only a few moments, it begins to impart caramel, apricot and lemon zest in slow measure. The blend is 20% Grechetto, 20% Malvasia, 20% Garganega with other white grapes. It sees skin contact for 15 days and is inoculated with indigenous yeasts. If you are a fan of Santa Chiara, the 2010 vintage is exceptional. Drink: 2014-2019. Reigning proud in the field of esoteric wines, Paolo Bea embodies a winemaking philosophy that speaks directly to the heart of those who celebrate the cult of the grape. This small, family run estate follows a purist, environmentalist and natural approach with indigenous yeasts, warmer fermentation temperatures, extended skin macerations and traditional aging vessels. Considering the instability inherent to many of those variables, vintage influence plays an extremely important role in the final outcome. These two wines, from the excellent 2010 and 2007 harvests respectively, are quintessential Bea. Importer: Rosenthal Wine Merchant, www.madrose.com