Livio Felluga Terre Alte 2018

Aromas of papaya, jack fruit, grapefruit seed, waxed lemon, thyme, wild herbs and crushed stones. It’s medium-to full-bodied with a textured palate. Complex layers of fruit, herbs and minerals. Some anise and spice, too. Fantastic blend of friulano, pinot bianco and sauvignon. Drink or hold.

A landmark wine for the region, the Livio Felluga 2017 Rosazzo Terre Alte is a careful blend of Friulano, Pinot Bianco and Sauvignon packaged in a heavy bottle with the estate's distinctive geographic map depicted on the front label. The 2017 vintage threw some big challenges at vintners with hot summer temperatures and excessive rains in September. However, white varieties such as the ones used in this blend managed a good window for optimal ripening. The wine is deceptive, and I mean that in a good way. On first examination, the bouquet feels fruity and lean. But as the fiber of the wine settles on the palate, you are made aware of the unexpected complexity and depth delivered in a second wave. The wine rushes with intensity. Fruit, peach and honey segue to crushed sandstone and dried basil. This is a keeper.

Terre Alte (friulano, pinot bianco and sauvignon blanc) is the most balanced and elegant of Livio Felluga’s three white blends from the 2017 vintage (Illivio and Abbazia di Rosazzo are also recommended here). Initially reticent on the nose and the palate, it begins to unfurl by the third day, showing flavors of pineapple, white peach and mandarin orange couched in a texture that feels like fresh cream. Decant it half an hour before serving with a rich poultry dish.

Signature wine from a legendary Friulian producer. It’s a blend of Friulano, Pinot Bianco and Sauvignon grapes, showing tremendous weight and persistence. Herbal notes of fennel and basil from the Sauvignon are inspired. Great ageing potential, a reference point for white blends.

Fragrant lime blossom and spice notes waft through flavors of glazed apricot, lemon meringue pie and saline-tinged mineral in this pure, vibrant white, which is medium-bodied and well-cut, with a lithe, lasting finish. Pinot Bianco, Sauvignon and Friulano. Drink now through 2028.