Tasting notes:

From tiny churches and shrines to impeccably cared-for vineyards, La Roncaia is a Friuli Orientali gem. The grapes are grown on sandy marl soils, perfect for fine quality Pinot Grigio. Alcoholic and malolactic fermentation takes place in French Allier barriques, adding delicate oak notes and spice. The resulting wine, our Grand Master in this year’s competition, shows a pale lemon-green colour and white peach, white cherry fruit and golden apple fruit, with buttery croissant and honey nuances. Dry, the mid-weight palate has lovely definition and lively acidity. Rich, possibly with a little late harvest, botrytised grapes, with the scent   of honey on the palate and finish. A wine made for goat’s cheese. (Patricia Stefanowicz MW)