Russolo Braida Antica Neri 2024

A product of Friuli's gravelly, well-drained soils, this is a field blend - increasingly rare these days - where several varieties, among them Pinot Nero and Refosco, grow together and are harvested and fermented as one. The approach captures more the character of the place rather than any single grape, and here brings out a wine with bright red and black berry fruit, fragrant violet and rose, and a twist of blood orange. Lees ageing for up to a year adds texture while holding the freshness, giving a palate that's juicy, ripe and carried by polished tannins. A wine shaped as much by its terroir as by its blend.

With its freshness and supple tannins, it's well suited to lighter fare such as grilled trout, herby roast quail or wild mushroom tart.

The Russolo family has been making wine in Friuli for over a century, in the process establishing their name as a hallmark of quality. Today, Iginio and Rino carry this on making wines renowned for their concentrated varietal character, a result of meticulous vineyard practices that prioritise low yields and sustainable farming. With organic fertilizers and minimal sulphur use, they nurture their vines, a mix of indigenous Friulian and international varieties, on the well-draining, stony soils around Pordenone.