Geek Grape of the Week - Timorasso

In keeping with my 2011 resolution to drink more white wine, I tried a varietal for the first time yesterday while visiting old friends at the San Francisco wine bar, Bin 38. The new grape, Timorasso, caught my eye on the wine list as I realized it was a varietal I didn't recognize. Not surprising since this Italian grape is one of over 2,000 varietals grown in the boot-shaped country. I tried the 2008 Vigneti Massa Timorasso 'Derthona', and was impressed by its

Timorasso grapes are in the hills of Tortona

Hailing from the Piedmont (Piemonte) region of northern Italy, Timorasso has historically been used to make the bitterly astringent aperitif, Grappa. Timorasso is said to be making its comeback on wine lists across the world. However, rumor has it there are only 100 acres of this age-worthy varietal still planted, so it won't be popping up like Pinot Grigio anytime soon.

Looks: Pale gold...like melted butter

Smell: Slightly floral, tropical fruits (pineapple) and spicy--think ground nutmeg

Taste: Fuller in body, sharp, tart, acidic notes followed by rich, honey and nutty flavors.

Eats: Hot appetizers, Sharp Cheese*, Pasta or other dishes with rich, buttery or even creamy sauces

Recommendations: Drink slightly chilled. My Timorasso was served way too cold for this varietal, so I had to wait for the aromas and flavors to "open up" in the glass. A 15-minute tip is to either stick the bottle in the fridge for 15 minutes before drinking, or, if it's been chilling, take the bottle out 15 minutes before opening. This should give this wine enough time to

*I drank mine with the baked feta, onion marmalade and crostini