Description

Producer Venica
Country Italy
Region Collio
Varietal Friulano
Vintage 2020
Size 750ml
ABV 13.00%

The grape once known as Tocai Friulano (with the Tocai now dropped per EU order after the Hungarians complained) is actually an old Bordeaux white called Sauvignonasse or Sauvignon Vert. No longer found in Bordeaux at all, it s thrived in Friulano to give light, vivid, wines with citrus and green apple fruit, hints of something floral, and an almond note that can range from green to almost toasted.

This is a terrific example, with around 12 hours of skin contact before fermentation to add body, texture and bite. The aromas are subtle and lovely, showing notes of crisp pear, green apple, hay, wildflowers, chamomile and toasted almond. On the palate the firm acidity is balanced by a nice feel of textural richness with crisp green orchard fruits, lime and toasted almond flavors and an attractively dusty, almost salty, dry finish. Not really fruity, but not austere, either, this is a delightful companion to all kinds of food including asparagus, pork and poultry, and shellfish.