Tenute Tomasella Friulano 2023

These days the likes of Pinot Grigio and Chardonnay tend to hog the spotlight in northeast Italy and Friulano, historically the area's signature white grape, has been somewhat pushed aside. A shame, really, because it's got plenty to offer. Thankfully, producers like Tenute Tomasella are keeping the tradition alive, championing its distinctive nutty, mineral character. Here, delicate aromas of honey and acacia blossom lead into ripe pear and apple on the palate, all balanced by a refreshing acidity. And a short spell on its lees adds a bit of richness to round things out nicely. For an authentic taste of Friuli-Grave in all its glory, this is a fine place to start.

A great all-rounder - lovely on its own, even better with food - this is a natural match for cold meats or simple chicken dishes. Its fresh acidity and subtle richness complement without overwhelming, making for an easy, effortless pairing.

Right on the border between Friuli and Veneto, Tenute Tomasella has been quietly making good, unpretentious wines since 1965. It’s a family-run outfit with 30 hectares of vines encompassing the best of both regions, which means their wines have a bit of Friuli's crisp elegance and a touch of Veneto's warmth. It's a pretty decent location for a vineyard, all things considered, for making some interesting wines.