Country: Italy  Region: Friuli-Venezia Giulia  Vintage: 2015 Category: White Wine  Color:  White Producer: Livio Felluga "There are few producers who have been more important in defining the quality image of Italian white wines than Livio Felluga. Their landmark 'Terre Alte' was first produced in 1981, and they have continued to make innovative and consistently high quality wines ever since. The way in which winemaker Andrea Felluga has embraced Stelvin is another example of his forward-thinking approach. After experimenting for five years, Andrea now feels confident that Stelvin is the right step for the Felluga wines and that the closure will help retain the freshness and perfumes that mark these wines out from the crowd. The quality of the Felluga range can largely be attributed to the fruit being grown on their 200 hectare property, which is divided into 300 parcels. The estate's vineyards straddle provincial borders, being located in both Colli Orientali and Collio. Their most prized possession is the holding at Rosazzo, where their Merlot and the grape varieties used in the famed 'Terre Alte' blend are planted. Their Pinot Grigio is wonderfully intense yet balanced, while the Friulano is the most restrained and well-defined example of this variety produced." Winemaker: Andrea Felluga Vineyards: The vineyards are planted on marl and sandstone. The training system is Guyot, with one or two fruiting arms along a main wire. Vinification: "The grapes are carefully destemmed and left to macerate for a short period. Next, the fruit is soft crushed. The must obtained is then allowed to settle, and then fermented in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks. After fermentation, the wine settles on the lees in the stainless steel containers for six months. The bottled wine is aged in temperature-controlled binning cellars for a minimum of two months. Tasting Notes: Bright yellow with wonderful greenish reflections. On the nose this wine is rich and multifaceted, with floral and tropical notes of oleander blossoms, elder, ash and plum, layered with gooseberry, guava and kiwi; a white rose accent, holly sprouts, honey and custard ice cream. On the palate, it is full, fresh and savoury. Pleasant tannins and hints of apricot, kiwi, goji, cranberry, medlar, almond milk, coriander and a balsamic note of mallow. Food Suggestion: Traditionally drunk as an aperitif in Friuli, a great match with prosciutto crudo, salami and other sliced meats; pairs pleasantly with fish dishes and fresh and fatty cheeses. Closure: Stelvin  ABV:13%