Robert Princic originally made this wine in small quantities for his family. It is a blend of three varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Sauvignon Blanc. For this wine, Gradis’ciutta selects vineyards with “ponca" soils — layered sandstone and marl — that are highly regarded in the Collio region. I found that this unique blend drinks like a nice, moderately-oaked Chardonnay with a creamy round body, yogurt, and toast notes from neutral oak barrels and lees aging. It offers suggestions of kiwi, passion fruit, and lychee notes from extended hang time on the vine. This is an exceptional wine and, notably, my wife’s favorite of the tasting.
Gradis’ciutta, Collio (Friuli Venezia Giulia, Italy) 2018
By Vince Simmon