2011 Skerk Vitovska

Region: Carso < Friuli < Italy 
Grapes: Pineau d’Aunis, Gamay, Côt
Vineyard/Cellar Stats: organic farming, thin iron-rich topsoil over limestone, 30 days of skin maceration in wooden vats, aged on the lees for 12 months in 1500-2000L oak casks, unfined/unfiltered. Minimal SO2 added at bottling only. 
Winemaker: Sandi Skerk

On the eastern edge of Italy, bordering Slovenia, Carso is nestled in a rugged stretch of mountains above Trieste with views of the ocean and a unique microclimate, and a winemaking tradition unlike any other in the country. The young, energetic Sandi Skerk keeps this tradition alive following his grandfather’s methods to produce some of the most alive and characterful wines we’ve tasted. A card-carrying member of the Friulian school of naturalists led by Gravner, Skerk macerates the juice on the skins for 30 days, producing a super complex, intensely-mineral full-bodied wine. This method also increases aromatics and preserves the wine, so this, the 2011 vintage, is just hitting its stride, and will age beautifully for at least 5 more years. Gorgeous honeysuckle and floral aromas followed by tangerine, apricot and a citrusy freshness.