Description
From: Oslavia, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy
Varietal: Ribolla Gialla
Taste: This is a striking amber hue, its deep golden-orange tones through the layered and unique winemaking process achieved through extended skin contact during fermentation. The nose is intense and multifaceted, offering aromas of dried apricot, orange peel, and honey intertwined with earthy notes of tea leaves, dried flowers, and a touch of spice, all enriched by subtle oxidative qualities that define Gravner’s style. The wine is full-bodied and textural on the palate, with a tannic structure reminiscent of red wines. Flavors of dried citrus, stone fruits, and nuts harmonize with herbal undertones and a pronounced minerality, while vibrant acidity balances the wine’s richness. The long, complex finish lingers with notes of dried apricots and a savory, almost saline quality.
Pairing: Grilled octopus is an excellent match, as the wine's acidity complements the charred flavors and tender texture. Seared scallops with lemon butter are elevated by the citrus notes in the wine, enhancing their delicate sweetness. Chicken piccata, with its tangy lemon and caper sauce, finds balance in the wine's vibrant acidity, while seafood paella benefits from the wine's complexity, matching the rich flavors of mixed seafood and saffron-infused rice—Mediterranean grilled chicken, marinated with herbs, pairs wonderfully with the wine's herbal undertones. The wine's minerality complements mussels in a white wine garlic sauce, while the wine's depth and layered flavors elevate the wine's roasted branzino with Mediterranean herbs.
Mediterranean Citrus Chicken Skewers With Tahini Sauce
Recipe from Amuse Bouche
Adapted by Jennifer Steinhauer, NYT Cooking
About: The Gravner winery, located in the village of Oslavia in northeastern Italy's Friuli-Venezia Giulia region, has a remarkable history dating back to 1901. Established as a family-run farm, it produced a mix of crops, including grapes, sold to cooperatives or made into simple table wine. By the mid-20th century, the Gravner family began bottling their wine, which marked the beginning that would later revolutionize winemaking in the region.
Josko Gravner, born in 1952, grew up immersed in the traditions of his family's land. In the 1970s, he assumed control of the winery and began to modernize its operations. Like many winemakers of the time, he adopted modern techniques and international grape varieties, including Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. His wines succeeded and garnered attention, but Josko felt something was missing. He became increasingly disillusioned with the homogenization of wine styles and the lack of connection between his wines and the unique terroir of Oslavia.