FERNANDO PIGHIN & FIGLI Sauvignon Friuli Grave DOC 2016 REGION: Italy / Friuli-Venezia Giulia GRAPES: 100% Sauvignon Blanc The gravelly, sandy subsoil of Grave del Friuli forces the roots of the vine to grow deep into the earth, resulting in richer fruit. The grapes for all of Pighin’s wines are handpicked and pressed in state-of-the-art pneumatic presses. Select grapes of optimum ripeness are gently pressed immediately after harvest and undergo a 14- to 18-day cold-temperature fermentation in stainless steel tanks. As there is no malolactic fermentation or oak aging, the finished product is a beautifully pure expression of Sauvignon Blanc grapes. HARVEST NOTE The 2016 season was a bit turbulent but the resulting wines are wonderful. The temperatures in February and March were higher than past seasons. In mid-April, the weather conditions drastically changed. The area saw a temperature drop and abundant rainfalls that lasted until the middle of June. Luckily, the weather significantly improved during the months of July and August with sunny days and good ventilation, alternating with moderate rains and warm temperatures. This ideal weather situation allowed for an optimum ripeness in the grapes. The 2016 harvest began in early September with perfect grape health and natural sugar record values. The obtained musts showed excellent organoleptic values with particular regard to sugar content and acid balance. After fermentation, the musts rested on their lees until the middle of January with lees stirring every 10 days. The 2016 vintage has shown itself to be an excellent year! TASTING NOTE Shows intense, persistent aromas of tomato leaves, with wild green peppers and elderflower notes. The wine has elegant, fresh and full flavors on the palate, and excellent length on the palate. FOOD PAIRING This wine pairs well with vegetable soups, especially creamed soups, fish soufflés and flans, dishes based on eggs and asparagus. Also excellent with cured meats. TECHNICAL DATA APPELLATION: Grave del Friuli DOC PH: 3.40 ACIDITY: 5.80 g/l ABV: 13% POINTS OF DISTINCTION Produced without malolactic fermentation or oak contact to retain the grape's true character Versatile with seafood as well as vegetarian foods and poultry The climate, cool yet moderated by the proximity of water and the sun's reflective effect on the stony soils, allows a long growing season to ripen the fruit well into autumn..