Neapolitans who put ice in your white wine, you know who you are. Stand tall. You are the inspiration for a new product.
Winemakers Chris and Jessica Zazo, who divide their time between Naples and their boutique Napa Valley winery, Hailstone Vineyards, observed many ice-plunking white wine drinkers when they came to Naples, so they started investigating.
“Ninety percent said they do it to keep their drink ice cold while the other 10 percent felt judged and denied the ice in their drink altogether,” relates Jessica.
Hence the inspiration for Hailstone Ice, a sparkling white designed to be poured over ice, topped with fruit, and proudly consumed. No excuses necessary.
While it is a sparkler, it’s “designed to be poured into a wine glass, not a traditional Champagne flute, over ice with your favorite garnish,” says Chris. He recommends filling the glass about one-third of the way with ice then adding the wine and any garnishes atop.
The Zazos say the wine has a clean baseline, so it readily takes on any flavors added. They recommend personalizing your glass with your favorite fruits.
“So far we’ve seen strawberries, peaches, watermelon, blueberries, and even passionfruit,” Jessica details. Of course, purists can drink it over ice without anything added.
As for foods, the Zazos say it pairs well with caviar, charcuterie, vegetables, and shellfish. Hailstone Ice is available in many Naples restaurants and can be ordered from the winery.
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