|
|
Refosco, we believe, is the most important
native grape of the Friuli, both because it is the most
widely planted variety and because of the high quality
wine it is capable of producing, whether as a varietal
wine on its own or in a blend. Our own Refosco is dark
purplish-ruby in color, with delicate scents of wild berries
such as blackcurrant and blueberry along with spicy aromas
of black pepper and clove. In the mouth it shows exemplary
balance between crisp acidity, supple roundness, and fine-grained
tannins. The vein of fruit continues in the mouth, acquiring
a well-defined and attractive vanilla note.
The vineyards are located in the foothill areas of west-central
Friuli, in rocky, schistous soils with substantial gravel
content, well-drained and rich in nutrients. They are
trained to the high-trunk, double-cordon Sylvoz system
designed for low yields, with vine density of 5,000/ha.
(2,000/acre).
Hand-picking is carried out in late September or early
October, depending on local weather conditions.
After de-stemming, enzymes are added to the must, which
then macerates on the skins for about a week, with frequent
pumpovers during the first few days. After the juice
is pressed off, yeasts are added and fermentation is
carried out in temperature-controlled steel tanks.
Following the completion of malolactic fermentation,
part of the wine goes to French and American oak barrels
for four months; this is later blended with the remainder
of the wine stored in stainless steel. Bottling of the
cuvée is carried out some eighteen months following
harvest.
Total production: Aprrox. 625 cases.
Alcohol: 13%
Total acidity: 5.6 gr/li.
pH: 3.34
|
|
