ChaLou The Somm & The Winemaker Arneis 2024 from Orange in NSW is a bright, savoury‑edged Italian white with real personality – think citrus and melon up front, then a lovely, food‑centric grip that keeps you coming back for another sip. This 2024 The Somm & The Winemaker Arneis is all about place and friendship, grown on the ChaLou vineyard and made by Nadja Wallington in collaboration with sommelier Louella Mathews.

In the glass, ChaLou The Somm & The Winemaker Arneis 2024 offers a sunny mix of citrus blossom, white peach, pear and honeydew melon, with hints of almond and savoury parmesan rind adding complexity. The palate is finely detailed and dry, showing bright, lemony acidity wrapped around stonefruit, pear and gentle nuttiness, finishing with a distinctive chalky, almost saline grip that screams modern Orange‑grown Arneis. It’s fresh, textural and quietly serious beneath that cheerful, aromatic nose.

Food‑wise, this Arneis is made for the table – pour it with antipasti, burrata, grilled zucchini, roast chook with lemon and herbs, or seafood pasta and you’ll see that chalky grip and savoury edge really shine. It’s also excellent with hard cheeses (that parmesan‑rind twist is a giveaway), risotto, and richer vegetarian dishes where you want freshness without losing flavour weight.