If I could paint a picture of dramatic vineyards in Italy, I would base it on the landscape of the Zorzettig properties. Located in Friuli Venezia Giulia the landscape is influenced by the Adriatic Sea and equally the dramatic mountaintops of the Eastern Dolomites. The province is home to a convergence of multiple civilizations and a complex, tangled history as intricate and striking as the diversity of the terrain. Friuli is most for white wines. Its borders are adjacent to Slovenia at its west side, Austria to the north, the Adriatic Sea to the south and Veneto to the east. It is Friuli where the most fragrant and vibrant white wines in Italy grow almost effortlessly.
The name MYÒ is a word that can be found in the oldest poem in Friulano dialect, wrote in Cividale del Friuli in the first half of the XIV century. "In the four stanzas the main character compares his beloved woman to his land, both loved beyond all other things."
It is fitting that this historic part of winemaking in Italy thrives here. With the magnificence of landscape and the luxury of spaciousness, the Zorzettig Winery is perched high atop the slopes of Spessa di Cividale. This is the epicenter of DOC, Friuli Colli Orientali. Its particular microclimate is derived from the cooler currents of mountain air from the Alps and the cool pure sea breezes of the Adriatic.
Zorzettig has a luminous role with over 100 years of winegrowing, family tradition, all complemented by the stunning beauty of Friuli. With over 70 years of winemaking, the winery today has culminated in a company run by four generations of infallible women of the Zorzettig family. For the last 10 years, the determined and driven Annalisa Zorzettig has been the newest generation at the helm steering the brand into modernized winemaking with a focus on sustainability. The property consists of 100 hectares of vineyards which include both indigenous and international varieties. It is complemented by an ancient cellar dating back from 1780. Just a few miles away, a retreat of the Zorzettig’s known as Relais La Collina. A perfect home base for relaxing and recharging between exploring the riches of Friuli and winetasting. You can relax poolside or explore on bicycles they provide. The perfect way to get some rest and relaxation in!
We asked Analisa Zorzettig for her insights into what makes this region and the wine so special.
WS (The Wine Siren): What were your earliest memories of growing up on this property?
Analisa Zorzettig (AZ): I remember our grandparents encouraging us to fill up big demijohns containing up to 54 liters. I must have been about 6 or 8 years old. It was a funny way to spend some time with my siblings and cousins. I do clearly recollect also that sometimes we tasted the wine from the big casks before bottling it and we ended up lying down under the casks.
WS: In your eyes, what makes the land of Zorzettig unique?
Analisa Zorzettig: Soil and geographical configuration of our hilly vineyards. All our vineyards are located on the hills, namely on four distinct hills located one next to each other on a windy channel that runs North-South between Alpi Giulie (Julian Mountains) as are called the local Alps. Alpi Giulie stops humid winds from running away, thus providing us with a sufficient amount of rain. At the same time, winds prevent molds. The natural inclination of the hills allows drainage too. Over the years, we have carried out time-consuming hard work aimed at building terraces on the hills. It turns out that all this work helps us fighting the increasing amount of challenges climate change puts on us. Soil is a key element too. It is a mixture of ponca (the local name for flysch) and sandstone. This soil composition provides the vine with a lot of mineral elements along with water – soil keeps it even if it has not been raining for a while.
WS: What are the particulars of the terroir that determine the varietals that thrive? (ie., Macro, microclimate, soil types and any unique aspects of the land that contribute to a unique aspect in the wine).
Analisa Zorzettig: A unique soil composition, what we called ponca, rich in minerals; a microclimate with sudden changes in humidity and wind regimes; finally, an inclination of our hills that grants a perfect exposure.
WS: This property with over 100 years of history and a cellar from the 18th century is pretty remarkable. What is the history of the property?
Analisa Zorzettig: The history of Zorzettig winery stretches out on over 100 years, with these lands resulting from a stubborn manual work local farmers have been carried out for centuries, as it is described in the MYO ballad from 1380.
This region was first dominated by the Romans, then the Longobards, the Republic of Venice and finally the Austro-Hungarians. They all came here looking for fruit, cereals, and wine grown on the border of their empires.
The turning point of Zorzettig winery was the takeover of the lands previously belonging to the local hospital that we were already cultivating. It was a special place with a little church on the top of the hill surrounded by the pines. It was December 1969 when we finally took over.
WS: MYOs is a very special line of wine. How did you come up with the name and what does this line mean to you?
Analisa Zorzettig: For us, Zorzettig’s MYOs line represents the soul of Friuli. The name MYO comes from an old ballad of 1380, which portrays a special harvest through a love story. MYO embodies a new and at the same time old philosophy belonging to the farmers, a philosophy that the global crisis in 2007-2008 has relived: let’s produce less but in a better and sustainable way.
WS: What is your favorite part of the process of winegrowing and why?
Analisa Zorzettig: Vine flowering and veraison, which both represent the moment vineyards come back to life again.
WS: Share your earliest memory of growing up on a vineyard and when you knew this was going to be your life…
Analisa Zorzettig: There has not been a real decision point. I was born and raised in the vineyard, as we say. And this has become a part of my DNA. I was used to be fed with a baby bottle in the morning while the family was in the vineyard, at lunch a plate of spaghetti in the wine cellar, and for dinner some minestrone soup while clients were around.
WS: What are your favorite varietals? Any new ones on the horizon you might plant?
Analisa Zorzettig: Friulano and Pignolo are the varieties I love more. They represent an interpretation of the Friuli region which is not replicable and is full of history. Lately, we have also planted a small vineyard of Soreli, a fungus-resistant variety of Tocal Friulano which allows us to move a step forward in sustainability without having to dismiss our Friuli flagship variety.
WS: The property is mesmerizing. How many generations are involved in the winery?
Analisa Zorzettig: At the moment there are 4 different generations involved, my mum Antonietta, me, my daughter Veronica and my granddaughter Leonie. A female team, a fantastic experience!
WS: If there was one thing you wanted people to take away from the experience of drinking your wine, what would that be?
Analisa Zorzettig: A positive approach to life, pleasure, conviviality, health, and energy, and a smile-on mood. More than one thing!
WS: What are some of the biggest challenges you face winemaking or wine-growing because of your location/terroir?
Analisa Zorzettig: The biggest challenge has always been the weather. I can say that in the last ten years, it has definitely changed, making it even more difficult to foresee it. As mentioned above, the hard work we have done in terracing the hills is paying back and helped us facing a very humid vintage such as 2014 with a lot of rain and not much sun. But of course, it gets very difficult when the weather changes very fast such as in 2017: on April 6 it almost 20 degrees Celsius, on April 21 we went below zero, which means huge risks as far as frosts.
WS: Are there opportunities to wine taste at your location?
Analisa Zorzettig: Of course! For us, hospitality is a way of being. We encourage both our friends and clients to come along for a visit and a tasting. We have also a country house where people can stop overnight. We prefer to pair our wine with local food, such as Prosciutto di San Daniele or the local salami, or the strucchi, a local dessert when it comes to pairing our sweet wine.
WS: What significant aspects of history played a role in the winery?
Analisa Zorzettig: In 1945, when WWII was on verge of bursting out, in order to save our winery my grandfather buried the cases of wine and hid the big wooden casks beneath the hay. This was because Slovenians were coming around and taking all they could find. We actually preferred to give wine to the US Allies, who usually gave us chocolate and cigarettes.
WS: What type of farming practices do you practice?
Analisa Zorzettig: We use integrated pest control, which uses good insects to fight against bad ones.
WS: Where do you draw your inspiration from?
Analisa Zorzettig: From my team of collaborators, my granddaughter, friends, and clients. It is a way to keep renovating on a daily basis our passion for wine.
WS: What aspects of the winery are you involved in?
Analisa Zorzettig: I try to be present, involved and informed in all aspects of the winery, contributing as much as possible and conveying our own style in every moment of winemaking.
Tasting: I had an opportunity to taste the wines and was particularly enamored with the MYO Friulano. But of course! Light citrus notes, a full bouquet of perfume, and a zing of something different likely from the “Ponca” within the soil. Interesting, lively, and elegant. The aromatics are of white flowers and citrus. On the palate a vibrant seductive mouthfeel. Lingering and long-lasting on the finish.
Not only a great winery to buy wine from but an incredible destination to visit. Adding Zorzettig to my bucket list!
Visit: Zorzettig Vini
Sojourn to the apex of Napa Valley with Theorem Vineyards. Adventuring up to Calistoga offers a wide array of wine riches including some boutique & family-owned small lot wineries.
BBQ, Celebration, Wine, and Convenience are all necessary components of entertaining. But how do you make it even better?
Where to Stay: Napa Valley’s Meadowood Meadowood. Blissful Spa Experiences, Sublime Dining and Luxury. UPDATE: Meadowood sadly was impacted by the fires in Napa Valley
Chateau Bellefont-Belcier
Today Chinese investment has a major stake in Bordeaux St. Emilion appellation. With over 160 estates in the region owned by Chinese. Peter Kwok (head of CITIC and based in Hong Kong) is part of this influx of Chinese investors having made investments in 8 estates in the past 24 years. Chateau Bellefont-Belcier is the crown jewel, marking a prized piece of French wine heritage.
Founded by Count Belcier in the late 18th century, from a powerful Bordeaux family, the estate has all the trappings of a Grand Cru destination. Well-heeled neighbors and an indisputable pedigree in history. The vineyards are surrounded with epic neighbors including Château Pavie, Château Larcis-Ducasse and Château Tertre Roteboeuf. The south facing hillside where their grapes are grown consists of a limestone plateau, clay and limestone slopes and plots located at the foot of the hill.
For the purposes of this post I tasted three vintages by Chateau Bellefont-Belcier. Two under the previous owner prior to Kwock, and the 2018 under the management and ownership of Peter Kwock.
The 2016 was a solid presentation. 65% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon. 80% new barrels. Bright and bold black cherry, floral notes intertwined with anise and forest floor. Lovely expression.
For the 2017, sadly there was TCA in this. It doesn’t say anything about the vintage. I wasn’t able to taste.
The 2018 was the absolute hero of this vertical. 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. It sets the precedent for Peter Kwock’s vintages and what to expect in the future. The nose is swoon worthy. Decadent floral notes, roses, violets and spice, along with concentrated black fruit compote of blackberry and plum. The tannins are there, but as part of the ensemble adding the distinct aspect of unmistakable elegance and polish. Age worthy, delicious to enjoy now and what a treat. Bravo~!
#TheWineSiren #KellyMitchell
Learn more: vignoblesk.com
2020 Stoller Pinot Noir Rosé
Well crafted Rosé, with thought, intent and expertise behind it creates a medley of sensations with memorable taste as its hallmark. This effort executed by the sensational winemaking team at Stoller Estate, led by 17 year vet, winemaker & VP of winemaking, Melissa Burr.
The Stoller Estate is one of the first Oregon wineries I had the pleasure of visiting. To this day, that experience leads when I think of Oregonian wine. The vineyards located are the largest adjacent single plot of 225 acres under vine. These cool climate experts have 108 sections with 10 different varieties planted with 158 acres of Pinot Noir.
It makes sense that this beautiful bottle of Rosé is part of that very block of Pinot Noir. Whole cluster ferment in steel tanks lends a compelling dimension to this fragrant example of well made Rosé. Discover the elegant aromatics of a field of warm strawberries and nectarine. Memorable notes of the juice of luscious watermelon, and the crispness of citrus with a satisfyingly long finish.
Pairings…. This wine compliments everything. I had it with margarita pizza… But it tastes great alone and with almost everything you can put in front of it. Decadently versatile!
$28
At Stollerwine.com
#Sample #TheWineSiren #NapaValley
Provence…. For all of its delights, AIX-en-Provence is a destination to be tasted. Both visually and spiritually. Quiet, peaceful. A simple tranquility penetrating your soul. Like the Mistral, once in your memory, on your lips, the essence of Provence never leaves you. It’s languid state always a backdrop for thoughts of AIX .
~ The Wine Siren
The floral scents of this rose are a pristine expression of Provence Rose. A blend of Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault with the aromatics of florals, red berries, highlights the distinct freshness & minerality. The power of passion behind it, the beauty and elegance behind it make it a pleasure to sip, share and enjoy.
Grown at one of the highest elevations in the AOP Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence appellation, 420 meters above the sea at Mason Saint AIX. The color is distinct. This salmon hued beauty is always a treat year round.
For me, this wine is part of my summer. But it is also a part of my life. Low alcohol, easy sipping, perfect for entertaining, as an aperitif and enjoying with friends. It makes every enjoyable experience that much better. Do you AIX?
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When your breathless with excitement over summer fun, step up your wine game with a high quality luscious example of Rosé of Pinot Noir from Russian River Valley.
@sonomacutrer got off the ground in 1973 when visionary wine producer Brice Cutrer Jones, a decorated Vietnam combat fighter pilot determined he could successfully grow Chardonnay in the Russian River Valley.
Today, Mick Roeter carries the torch as Director of Winemaking.
On my lips. This expressive and voluptuous Award Winning Rosé of Pinot Noir. Not one you would dare toss an ice cube in but rather savor ever drop warm or cold. Fresh and vibrant, mouthwatering strawberry, succulent blood orange, zesty lemon all together with a long and bright finish.
Your summer is absolutely not complete with several bottles of this chilled and within reach.
After all. You deserve top Rosé don’t you?
#Sample #TheWineSiren #KellyMitchell #Wine
Eat Italian!
I loved getting back to a #NapaValley favorite. The delightful @dongiovanni_ristorante . Which I highly recommend. It’s divine to sit out under the umbrellas and next to the vineyards.
#2 perfect prepared halibut which is in season right now and not always on the menu. Pan seared to perfection and served with lightly sautéed greens.
Other dishes that are must tastes:
Mandili paper thin Handkerchief pasta tossed with Genoese basil (the real deal).
The octopus and arugula salad!
The lemon cream ravioli with bellwether ricotta. Breathtaking!
Best possible pairing with the halibut
#3 And the stage of the grapes in Napa Valley this week. Green jewels!
#4 the ever delicious @umanironchi Abruzzo VELLODORO
Terre di Chieti Pecorino IGT 100% Pecorino. Enchanting floral notes, citrus, honeysuckle perfect touch of sapidity. $16 worth every luscious penny!
#TheWineSiren #KellyMitchell #Wine
Super excited to delve into seven sips of Tuscany. But before I do I’d love to learn more about your favorite Tuscan experiences.
Whether it’s wine, destination, an experience, town or memory.
My favorite Tuscan experience was my glorious stay at @castellobanfi_wineresort .
#TheWineSiren #KellyMitchell
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One Response
I wasn’t familiar with this region until now! Sounds lovely, with a female force of good energy & amazing history!