Variety: Sauvignon Blanc

In the short list of producers coming out of Friuli, Ronco del Gnemiz is at the top of it. Period. Described as “pure renderings of nature,” these wines are an exceptional homage to their distinct terroir. Serena Pazzolo is the main face behind Gnemiz, though her husband Christian Patat, and their sons help to manage the vineyards and facilities as well. The family acquired the property in the 1960s, though like many of those in winemaking families–it took the drive and vision of a singular person to move the needle forward. Serena is known for the integrity of her biodynamic farming. Each vineyard is managed individually, from pruning to treatments to harvest, allowing for very individual expressions from plots located right next to one another. Making ‘cru’ level wines from separate vineyards is just one way Gnemiz stands out in the region. Utilizing compost made with local herbs, intervention is kept to a minimum and immense patience is practiced in the cellar. The wines are never rushed resulting in wines of uncompromising quality.

This plot is located in the nearby village of Buttrio, which has a slightly warmer microclimate than their other holdings. Grapes are pressed whole cluster and fermented in used barrels and 650 liter wooden vats with no battonage.