“Zitelle Duri” Malvasia Bianco Friuli Colli Orientali DOC 2023

Meroi Davino | Friuli
Az. Agr. Meroi | Via Stretta 7/b | IT 33042 Buttrio

02091323 · 0,75 l · 73,33 €/l10 units available
Limitation of 3 articles per customer

Whilst Barchetta and Casa Rossa in the Zitelle vineyard epitomise international Sauvignon excellence, the Duri plot tells a very different story – that of the indigenous Friulian Malvasia. ‘Duri’ is the third single-vineyard plot within the legendary Zitelle terroir, which Paolo Meroi acquired in 2007 and which once belonged to the ancient Order of the Unmarried Sisters. However, in contrast to the Ponca-rich plots with their sandstone-flysch soil, Duri exhibits a fundamentally different soil character: here, clay and loam dominate, enriched with iron, magnesium and sodium – —minerals that lend the Malvasia a distinctive aromatic depth and opulent richness.

Malvasia is one of those Friulian grape varieties that has been cultivated on these hills for centuries, long before international varieties such as Sauvignon or Chardonnay found their way to Buttrio. It embodies the Slavic, Romance and Austrian heritage that has merged in this border region – a grape variety capable, in the right hands, of exceptional aromatic and floral complexity. Paolo Meroi recognised the potential of this plot and produces the Duri only in the best vintages as a ‘Green Label’ – his exclusive selection, for which only the very finest grapes are used. The hand-harvested Malvasia grapes are fermented in September in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks using natural yeasts. The wine is aged for ten months in French barriques – , 30 per cent of which are new – followed by five months in stainless steel and a further eight months of bottle ageing. This long, patient ageing process results in a wine of opulent richness and fabulous complexity.

The aromatic and floral profile of Malvasia is revealed in all its splendour: ripe citron, camomile, melon and white pepper dominate the nose, underpinned by mandarin, yellow peach, jasmine and honeysuckle. On the palate, a vibrant, elegant and vertical structure unfolds with a creamy texture, perfectly balanced by lively acidity. The long final reveals fascinating notes of candied ginger and vanilla pod – a spicy, mineral complexity born of the unique combination of clay-loam-rich terroir and masterful vinification. A wine that proves why the indigenous Malvasia, in the hands of a master such as Paolo Meroi, ranks among the most exciting white wines Italy has to offer – an insider’s tip that deserves to be discovered. SUPERIORE.DE

"Attractive peachy nose with hints of eucalyptus, jasmine, kumquats and honeyed undertones. Savoury and tangy, with textural depth, saline finish." Decanter