2009 Radikon “3781” Riserva (Ribolla Riserva) Friuli 1L

“The 2007 Ribolla 3781 is a single-vineyard selection. It boasts an amber-orange color and an intense and savory bouquet that reminds me of a well-ripened cheese more than wine, yet in the best possible way. Dried peaches and apricots, a spritz of blood orange, Indian curries and something like a dusty old library book make this impossible to ignore. Its round, silky and seamless in feel with an autumnal presence, as mineral-tinged baked apple is lifted by juicy acids. The 2007 keeps the energy remarkably high even as it flaunts its oxidative style and leaves the mouth watering for more. This is an experience for sure and a must for lovers of skin-contact wines, but if this category isn’t your thing, its not a good place to make an early introduction. The 3781 spent four months on the skins followed by four years in neutral barrel and then held at the winery until release.” Eric Guido