Every now and then, Giulina and I enjoy uncorking expired wines, or wines supposedly expired.
A few months ago, a Pinot Grigio from the same vintage, same producer, didn’t convince us; it was amber-colored and tasted like chestnut honey. However, we rediscovered the genius of Friulian Mario Schiopetto in another bottle, with his desire, back in the 1960s, to produce elegant, fresh, and fragrant wines, freeing himself from the burdens of the past. He wanted to bottle his nectar because no one would understand its value in a demijohn.
This 1999 Sauvignon had us in raptures right from its color, a luminous golden color, confirmed by a nose that refused to fade, alive with a thousand-faceted citrus notes, candied fruit, sweets, and jam.
A clean lime honey, balsamic eucalyptus candy, then returning to notes of ginger, lemon balm, and finally a hint of mushrooms. A vital nose, still with youthful energy.
Extraordinary flavor, almost a cone of cream and lemon seasoned with Maldon salt. Alcohol is a supporting element, invigorating, never over the top.
What a great Collio can be after 23 years.
1999 Sauvignon Schiopetto, on asparagus risotto.
Rating: excellent (10)
Valentino Tesi
(tasting April 2022)
