Kapriol Produced from juniper berries and aromatic herbs such as cardamom, mint and bay leaves. Delicate straw/yellow; aromas of chamomile, lemon zest and pekoe tea. Full bodied with impressive richness on the palate and a dry, herbal finish that is powerful. Enjoy this over the next 5-7 years. 38% alcohol.

Distinctly savory and spicy in the glass, the 2018 Brut Oudeis wafts up with notes of crushed stone, dusty sage, ground ginger and citrus zest. It's elegant and round on the palate, with saline minerals and brisk acidity enlivening the tart orchard fruits. This finishes with a balanced inner sweetness, and sour lemon hints add a lovely contrast. The 2018 Oudeis is a big step up from the 2017 tasted last year. It's a blend of 80% Pinot Noir and 20% Chardonnay.

The 2019 Barolo Ravera is the most intensely mineral and saline of the Barolos. Crushed rocks, white pepper, flowers, orange zest, red berry fruit and bright acids all run through this finely sculpted, chiseled Barolo. Readers who enjoy Barolos of energy and tension will adore the Ravera. I have always had a soft spot for this Barolo. The 2019 is another magnificent dimension of Vietti's dark horse, a wine that over the last 10-12 years has routinely challenged for the crown here, and often won!

The 2021 Inzolia is sweetly scented but also finessed and floral, with a dusting of confectioners’ sugar and spice that gives way to ripe pear and hints of cardamom. This rushes the palate with soft textures, yet quickly takes on a reverberation of spicy green citrus, as nuances of tropical melon form toward the close. A salty flourish defines the finale, as the 2021 tapers off wickedly fresh and squeaky-clean, while leaving the mouth watering for more.

Lots of red plums and cherries on the nose with a palate that has a full body, thick silky tannins and a fresh and flavorful finish. The tannins are in good balance against the ripe fruit. Fresh and transparent at the end. Drink or hold.

An explosion of flavors on the nose and palate; dark forest fruits, dry hay, strawberries with cream, smoke and spice. Great Complexity and Intensity.

BEST 50 WINES 2022

Psst, here’s a secret. Friuli has some of the most expressive Sauvignon Blanc on the planet. There was a point in this region’s history where “international” varieties were more prominent than their native grapes. And while they did the work to bring those back, Friulian winemakers took varieties like Sauvignon Blanc (Merlot, Cabernet Franc) and coaxed a new kind of balance out of them. Some of the best of this grape comes from here, like this beautiful example from Russiz (Roo-seez). Bright and mineral-driven with minimal fruit, this wine is about texture. The palate is a study in balance with excellent acidity and just the right grip. It is very Friulian, and you may have a hard time sharing.

The 2018 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is suave, silky and caressing right out of the gate. Sumptuous and racy, with silky tannins, the Rocche possesses superb depth and plenty of resonance that builds over time. The 2018 is an especially potent Rocche that is going to need a number of years to unwind.