Forrest Arneis 2024

Long before Arneis earned its place in Marlborough, it was known in northern Italy as il birichino, or 'the little rascal' - a nickname earned for its low yields, thin skins, and fussy temperament in the vineyard. At Forrest, this once-overlooked variety has found a new rhythm on the gravel and silt terraces of the Wairau Valley, where long daylight hours and cool nights allow for slow, complete ripening. First planted by Forrest as part of their decades-long push to diversify Marlborough's white wine landscape, Arneis is now an integral part of their aromatic program. The 2024 vintage was machine harvested at full phenolic maturity, fermented cool in stainless steel, and aged briefly on lees to preserve its precision while adding mid-palate texture. The result is a dry white with 4.6g/L residual sugar, 6.4g/L total acidity, and 12% ABV - a wine that opens with lifted aromatics of pear skin, chamomile and lemon balm before tightening into a taut, mineral palate of white orchard fruit, saline acidity and a delicate almond bitterness on the finish. A quietly distinctive release, shaped as much by Marlborough intent as by Piedmont tradition.

Tasting Profile

Food Pairings:

Asian

Fish

Shellfish

Spicy