2019 Radikon O... Oslavje Bianco (500ml)

The late Stanislao (Stanko) Radikon’s bold decision in the 1990s to embrace extended skin contact and natural winemaking, alongside his neighbour Josko Gravner, played a pivotal role in the global rise of amber/orange wines. Over the course of 36+ vintages Stanko, and now his son Sasa, have remained uncompromising in their pursuit of wines that are pure expressions of their Friulian terroir, rejecting chemical additives, temperature control, and sulphur. Rooted in the traditions of Stanko’s grandfather, the Radikon estate in Oslavia focuses on Ribolla Gialla, with vineyards planted on steep clay and shale slopes, meticulously farmed by hand. Since 1995, Stanko progressively returned to historical methods, extending maceration from 7 days to 3 months and eliminating sulphur entirely by 2002, crafting age-worthy wines that are, in Stanko's words, "totally genuine." While the core of the estate was formed around plantings of Ribolla Gialla, Stanko’s parents also added small parcels of Merlot, Tocai Friulano and Pinot Grigio.

Oslavje is a blend of 50% Chardonnay and 50% Sauvignon Blanc which spends up to four months on skins.

Other Reviews....
The 2019 Bianco O…… (Oslavje) is airy and floral with a lovely touch of fresh mint that gives way to young peach and white flowers. This is distinctly savory on the palate, with a tart lemon rind tinge, giving way to young kiwi and mineral tones, more like an herbal tea than wine. Brisk acidity maintains a lifted feel. It finishes with medium length and a liquid floral sensation as tactile mineral tones add a pleasant crunchiness. This blend of 50% Chardonnay and 50% Sauvignon Blanc spends three months refining on the lees. Drink 2025-2031.
92 points
Eric Guido - Vinous