But first, a quick recap of Thursday’s race:

Another demonstration of dominance by Wout Van Aert, who shepherded his teammate Olav Kooij to the final sprint. Kooij fended off challenges from powerhouses Mads Pedersen, Casper Van Uden, and Kaden Groves as he crossed the line. Not much changed in the General Classification, with Isaac Del Toro keeping the Maglia Rosa. From my point of view, the star of Stage 12 was the stunning landscape of Emilia-Romagna, with its medieval castles perched atop dramatic hillsides.

Italy never gets old, am I right?

Friday’s course meanders north from Rovigo to Vicenza, in southwestern Veneto. It’s mostly flat, with just three categorized climbs that don’t amount to much. The day will end with a sprint to the line, not unlike Thursday’s stage. Will this be Sam Bennett’s day? I’d love to see him win one!

Spectator Sip: Pieropan Soave Classico

Soave Classico DOC

Garganega is the primary white grape of the region, and it must comprise at least 70% of the blend. Trebbiano di Soave (aka Verdicchio) and Chardonnay are permitted, although they may not exceed 30% of the blend. The best examples are 100% Garganega, from the hillside vineyards in the original classico zone, which was established in 1927. Soils here derive from decomposed volcanic rock that lends a mineral quality to the wines. Garganega ripens late but its thick skin guards against the humid conditions common to the northern Po River valley. In addition to the dry white wines for which it is famous, Garganega also features in the passito-style sweet wine called Recioto di Soave DOCG, which is made from raisined grapes.

2022 Pieropan Soave Classico

A blend of 90% Garganega and 10% Trebbiano di Soave, this wine comes from organically farmed grapes, themselves the product of vines between six and sixty years old. Vineyards lie at altitudes up to 300 meters above sea level, with a westward exposure. Fermentation occurred in glass-lined cement tanks, where the wine rested on its lees for three months before bottling. It aged a further three months in bottle before release. Alcohol by volume is listed as 12%.

Color: Bright lemon.

Nose: A lovely bouquet of lemon, elderflower, almonds, and white cherry.

Palate: Ripe peach and pear, lemon zest, sweet orange; lively acidity, which perfectly balances the vivid fruit character. Lovely with seafood!

Enjoy Friday’s stage, perhaps with a glass of Soave Classico in hand. For a minute you can pretend you’re along for the ride, basking in the beauty of the Veneto region!

See you tomorrow for another race-day pairing . . .