"Slatnik" Bianco 2022

750ml

Overview

Radikon "Slatnik" Bianco 2022 is an elegant and distinctive wine from the Friuli Venezia Giulia region in northeastern Italy. Produced by the renowned Radikon estate, known for its commitment to natural winemaking methods, "Slatnik" is a blend of Chardonnay and Friulano grapes. This wine stands out for its balance of freshness, complexity, and minerality, reflecting the unique terroir of the region. The Radikon estate, led by the visionary Stanko Radikon, is celebrated for its organic practices and minimal intervention approach, allowing the wines to fully express their natural character.

Vinification and Aging

• Fermentation: The grapes for "Slatnik" are fermented with extended skin contact, a method that enhances the wine’s texture and complexity. Fermentation occurs in wooden vats, which imparts subtle flavors to the wine and allows it to express its full character.
• Aging: After fermentation, the wine is aged on its lees for several months, which adds richness and complexity. The wine is then bottled without fining or filtration, preserving its natural purity and allowing it to evolve in the bottle.
• Bottling: As with many of Radikon’s wines, "Slatnik" is bottled with minimal intervention, showcasing the winemaker’s philosophy of allowing the grapes and terroir to shine through.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: The wine has a pale golden color, with subtle hints of amber that reflect its time on the skins during fermentation.
• Aroma: On the nose, "Slatnik" offers vibrant aromas of ripe stone fruits, such as apricot and peach, along with floral notes of chamomile and hints of citrus zest. As the wine opens up, it reveals a complex bouquet of herbs and a touch of almond.
• Palate: The wine is medium-bodied with a round, creamy texture, balanced by lively acidity. The flavors are a harmonious blend of ripe fruit, herbs, and a delicate minerality, with a slight nutty character and a refreshing, slightly bitter finish.

Food Pairing

"Slatnik" pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes, from seafood to poultry. It works particularly well with grilled fish, roasted chicken, and vegetable-based dishes such as risotto or grilled vegetables. Its subtle herbal notes also make it a great match for dishes featuring fresh herbs or light cheeses.

Serving Recommendations

• Serving Temperature: Best served at 12–14°C (54–57°F) to highlight its freshness and complexity.
• Decanting: Decanting is optional but can help open up the wine’s aromas and flavors, especially in older bottles.

Aging Potential

Radikon "Slatnik" Bianco 2022 has a moderate aging potential, with an optimal drinking window from 2024 to 2030. While it can be enjoyed in its youth for its fresh and vibrant character, the wine will continue to evolve and develop greater complexity with age.