We are in Cormons, more precisely in Località Zegla, a name that promises excellence. Here, the Erzeti? family, the heart and soul of the Branko winery, cultivates its vineyards in a unique microclimate. Zegla is a sort of natural amphitheatre where the cold currents descending from the Julian Alps collide with the mild currents of the Adriatic Sea. This temperature range is the secret behind the grapes' intense aroma. The appellation is Collio DOC, one of Italy's most prestigious for white wines. A certificate of origin from a hilly area where the slopes and sun exposure make each bunch of grapes a small pearl of concentration. It is no coincidence that Collio is synonymous with long-lived, structured whites with a vibrant freshness, capable of competing fearlessly with the great French Crus. Pure Chardonnay, in this corner of Friuli, the grape variety sheds its overly opulent or buttery character to embrace a fresher and more slender profile. After manual harvesting, 80% of the wine is aged in steel tanks to preserve the fragrance and freshness of the fruit intact. The remaining 20%, on the other hand, matures in 400-litre tonneaux. This choice is fundamental: the large wood oxygenates the wine just enough to give it structure and longevity, but without ever overpowering the varietal aromas of Chardonnay with excessive toasted notes. Bright and brilliant straw yellow in colour, the bouquet is highly complex, with distinct notes of medlar, apricot and citrus, giving way to a very elegant trail of sweet spices. On the palate, it is deliciously mineral and consistent with what the nose promises. The finish is balanced and slow to fade. At the table, it is a formidable companion for seafood dishes. Try it with raw fish or sushi. It is also perfect with grilled shellfish or stewed fish.