WTN: Two cheapie whitess from Italy

[Brad Ballinger]

Had these both recently. Decent quality for the price, but not setting the world on fire.

2002 Firriato Altavilla della Corte Bianco, Sicilia IGT. 80% grillo, 20% chardonnay. Partially fermented in barrique. Has some lift, and a pleasing tropical and golden delicious apple forward fruit profile. The oak is subtle. There's enough crispness here to keep it interesting.

2003 A Maccia (di Loredana Faraldi) Pigato, Riviera Ligure di Ponente DOC. Ultra-pale straw color, with a tinge of green. Crisp acidity. Melon flavors accented by herbs. Slight minerality. I really see this wine with a veggie risotto. The acid carries through on the finish where there is both fruit and herbs. If the wine isn't accompanying food, it certainly needs to accompany the sun.

Both wines about $10-$12 in the Twin Cities.