Skerlj in Carso in A Class Of Its Own: Vinous

Excellent scores and detailed notes on our Carso partner, Skerlj, in the recent Vinous article from Eric Guido on Friuli.

With a nod to the style of Carso’s pioneers (think Zidarich, Kante) and focus on native grapes and natural winemaking (skin maceration, ambient temperature ferments, long aging), Skerlj’s wines have gone from strength to strength, putting them solidly among the best from this wild and wonderful northern Italian winemaking region. Today’s notes prove this!

2017 Skerlj Vitovska
The 2017 Vitovska is decidedly savory and spicy, wafting up a beguiling display of sour apple, pear and lemon, complemented by hints of white pepper. It’s soft and almost fleshy upon entry, yet it quickly firms up through a display of brisk acids and minerals that nearly sizzle in the mouth. Inner florals dominate the finale, along with a tug of residual tension. The Skerlj Vitovska is fermented in oak vats for three weeks without temperature control before being moved to barrel for another twenty-four months. — Eric Guido

 

2017 Skerlj Terrano
The 2017 Terrano has a wild and animalistic personality. Dark musky blackberry, earthy minerals, white pepper and savory herbs come together to form a beguiling display. It’s slim in texture but makes up for it with a zesty mix of tart red and black berries, strewn with salty minerals and exotic spice. A twang of tart citrus adds lift as grippy tannins settle in, all under an air of pretty violet flowers. This is best enjoyed at the dinner table, especially in its youthful state and with all of that nervous energy. That said, it’s a beautiful expression of Terrano. — Eric Guido