It can be said that this Chardonnay is the reason why Capriva del Friuli is now seen as a garden of world winemaking. Here the soil is made up of “ponca”, a stratification of marl and sandstone. This poor, mineral soil forces the vine to give its best, producing grapes with a unique aromatic concentration. The Chardonnay vineyards of Villa Russiz are planted with a density designed to maximise fruit quality. Harvesting is strictly done by hand, selecting only the bunches that have reached perfect ripeness. In the cellar, the choice for this label is to avoid the use of oak, focusing entirely on purity. After gentle pressing, the must ferments in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperature and then ages on its lees for at least six months. This resting period gives the wine the silky structure that is its true strength. In the glass it shows a bright, almost brilliant straw yellow colour. The bouquet is an elegant, never tiring mix. Clear notes of Golden apple, ripe banana and a hint of freshly baked bread crust can be perceived. On the palate it is a caress. A full, well-balanced wine, where the softness of the fruit is immediately supported by vibrant freshness and that typical savoury streak that only “ponca” can provide. The finish is clean, long and consistent with what is promised on the nose. To be enjoyed with seared scallops or with a delicate first course such as tagliolini with wild herbs or a seafood risotto.