Gabe Conegliano Valdobbiadene Rive di Guia Terra Merita Extra Dry 2024

Gabe Conegliano Valdobbiadene Rive di Guia Extra Dry Terra Merita 2024 is a refined expression of Prosecco Superiore from one of the denomination’s most prized hillside crus. Crafted entirely from Glera grapes grown in the steep ‘Rive’ vineyards of Guia, it offers an elegant balance of freshness, fine bubbles and generous fruit. This Extra Dry style highlights the classic charm of Conegliano Valdobbiadene while showcasing the unique character of its specific village terroir.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, this wine typically shows a bright, pale straw-yellow colour with shimmering green highlights and a persistent, fine mousse. The bubbles form a delicate, continuous perlage that speaks to careful tank fermentation and attentive handling in the cellar. On the nose, expect lifted aromas of white flowers, acacia blossom and elderflower, layered with notes of crisp green apple, pear, white peach and a hint of citrus zest. Subtle nuances of fresh herbs and light minerality add complexity. The palate is harmonious and rounded, with the Extra Dry dosage bringing a gentle touch of sweetness to balance the vibrant acidity. Flavours of Williams pear, golden apple and lemon cream are supported by a clean, saline edge typical of quality hillside sites. The finish is refreshing, silky and pleasantly lingering. Best enjoyed in its youth for maximum aromatic intensity, this 2024 vintage will drink beautifully over the next 1–2 years.

Production
The Terra Merita 2024 is sourced from the steep slopes of Rive di Guia in the Conegliano Valdobbiadene area of Veneto, where Glera vines cling to well-drained, marl- and sandstone-rich soils. This hilly terroir, with its pronounced diurnal temperature shifts and optimal sun exposure, helps the grapes develop both aromatic richness and vibrant acidity. Harvest is typically carried out by hand due to the steep gradients, allowing for careful selection of perfectly ripe bunches. In the cellar, the wine is produced using the Charmat (Martinotti) method, with a gentle pressing of whole clusters, cool temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel to preserve delicate aromatics, and a secondary fermentation in pressurized tanks to create a fine, persistent sparkle. The Extra Dry dosage is calibrated to emphasize fruitiness and elegance without sacrificing freshness.

Food & Serving
This Extra Dry Prosecco Superiore is a versatile partner at the table, ideal as an aperitif and equally comfortable with a range of dishes. It pairs beautifully with light canapés, prosciutto and melon, fresh mozzarella, sushi, ceviche, seafood salads, and delicately spiced Asian cuisine. It also complements vegetable risotti, light pasta dishes and soft, mild cheeses. Serve well-chilled at around 6–8°C in a tulip-shaped sparkling wine glass to concentrate the aromas while allowing the mousse to unfold. Decanting is not recommended; simply open the bottle shortly before serving to enjoy its freshest, most expressive character.

Producer
Gabe is a quality-focused producer working within the historic Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore heartland, an area that has long set the benchmark for premium Glera-based sparkling wines in Italy. From this UNESCO-recognised landscape of steep, hand-tended vineyards, Gabe places particular emphasis on site expression, with the ‘Rive’ designation highlighting specific, high-quality hillside villages such as Guia. By combining traditional hand-harvesting with modern, precise cellar techniques, the estate aims to capture the purity, finesse and drinkability that have made Conegliano Valdobbiadene one of Italy’s most celebrated sparkling wine regions.