Attems: A blessed terroir between mountains and sea
Nestled in the rolling hills of Friuli Venezia Giulia, Italy is where you will find Attems, a pillar of grape growing in the Collio region with a rich, viticultural history that is recorded all the way back to 1106 with a documented land purchase for planting vines. The 44 hectares that make up the estate today produce wines that are reflective of its gorgeous landscape and ideal weather conditions that are perfectly suited to the aromatic, fresh wine styles of the Attems portfolio.
“Attems sits in a blessed position between mountains and sea.”
Attems was taken under new ownership in 2000 by the highly acclaimed Frescobaldi family and has since only strengthened its distinct characteristics of terroir in their wines through continuous research and biodynamic vineyard practices. Recently, Attems has utilized the use of cover crops to act as a natural fertilizer to the otherwise low-nutrient soils. The unique soils of the Attems vineyards are categorized by three areas:
The Isonzo area that’s comprised of sand, silt, and gravel soil that’s quite warm. This is where Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc are grown.
Flat land in the center of the property between Collio and Isonzo called “manine” that consists well-drained, loamy soils suited for Pinot Grigio and Ribolla Gialla.
“Ponca”, a marine origin soil made up of sandstone and marl that originated millions of years ago. This land on the Cicinis hill is strictly for their flagship wine made with Sauvignon Blanc. It’s within the Collio D.O.C. which is marked for its’ fossil soils, and this is Attems’ highest and coolest vineyards.
Beyond soil composition, the other two primary factors that impact estate vines are the high diurnal range, retaining freshness and aromatics in the grapes, and refractive sunlight from the Adriatic coast found within 15km of the vineyards that especially aids in late summer ripening.
Winemaker Daniele Vuerich keeps a keen eye on the Attems vineyards to ensure the harvest of the grapes happens at prime time for encapsulating desirable aromatics for the wines final product. Instead of relying on sending ripe grapes away for analysis of sugar levels and other data, every day is spent tasting the grapes themselves to determine when to harvest based on optimum aromatic and flavour characteristics. This method has truly “paid off” states Vuerich. A true connection between vineyard and winemaker.
“Personally, my favourite is our Sauvignon Blanc,” Vuerich explains, “it best expresses the quality of the territory, and has the most perfect balance of aromas and flavours.”
There are two single varietal Sauvignon Blanc from the Attems portfolio, both quite stylistically different from one another. Both reveal lovely structure, with mineral and salty qualities and slightly restrained acids, but unique aromatic and flavour expressions of the grape. A side-by-side tasting of the two is a thrilling endeavor for wine enthusiasts, and with more Attems wines hitting LCBO shelves and Ontario restaurants, a portfolio exploration is highly recommended!
Attems Sauvignon Blanc Venezia Giulia IGT 2023
An abundance of guava and passionfruit aromas ascend from the glass in an ensnaring whirlwind. Attractively floral. Volts of acidity pierce through the palate adding just the right amount of zesty freshness alongside lemon and orange notes. There’s an elegant mineral element and fine texture as a result of the 4 months of lees aging this Sauvignon Blanc sees that all concludes with a lengthy, and striking saline finish.
Attems Cicinis Collio DOC 2021
The Cicinis, named after the hill on which it’s grown, is Attems’ flagship wine. Made up of 100% hand-picked Sauvignon Blanc and falling within the Collio D.O.C., this wine is fermented in 50% barrique and 50% concrete eggs, and sees minimum 8 months of lees aging. It offers a fresh, but earthy essence, giving meadow aromas of straw and wildflowers. Luxuriously clean, elegant, poised. Wet stone and tantalizing mineral nuances in complete harmony with all flavours and structural elements. A wine to be celebrated for its’ beautiful totality.
Attems Pinot Grigio Friuli DOC 2023
Jasmine, pear and a hint of coconut on the nose leads to a juicy, peachy palate with zippy acids. There are mineral and textural complexities here that add depth to this widely misunderstood grape. Fresh lime and white pepper notes continue on a crisp, persistent finish. A serious Pinot Grigio that can easily be enjoyed by the wine curious and veteran palates alike.
Attems Pinot Grigio Ramato Friuli DOC 2023
A Pinot Grigio derived from the Province of Gorizia that undergoes a 10 hour skin contact giving it a pale peach hue. Gorgeous floral and candied aromas with rhubarb and pink grapefruit. Brisk acidity elevates red berry notes intertwined with both mineral flavour and texture flaunting depth and delicate complexities. Fruity, yet refined and delicate.