Radikon Jakot Friulano 2014

Stanko Radikon, a pioneer in the natural and orange wine movement, is renowned for his unconventional approach. He notably sent his son Sasa to study winemaking to learn traditional methods, only to deviate from them in practice. This highlights the Radikon philosophy: using scientific knowledge as a guide rather than a rulebook in winemaking.

In the early 1990s, Radikon, influenced by Josko Gravner and a return to Friuli-Venezia Giulia's winemaking heritage, shifted from conventional to natural methods. This change was driven by his desire for wines that genuinely reflected the unique spirit and terroir of the region, especially the distinctive qualities of the Ribolla grape.

Radikon's wines, produced in the picturesque Collio hills of Friuli-Venezia Giulia near Oslavia, close to the Slovenian border, are a testament to this philosophy. The winery, now managed by Sasa Radikon, cultivates local varieties like Ribolla and Friulano and international grapes such as Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Merlot. The vineyards benefit from the region's unique "ponka" soil, layered sandstone and marl.

The wines from Radikon stand out for their character, complexity, and longevity. They are celebrated for embodying the essence of natural and orange wines, characterized by their evolving flavors from the first pour to the last drop. Radikon's commitment to traditional, natural winemaking techniques ensures that each bottle uniquely expresses their dedication to the craft.

The Friuli-Venezia Giulia wine region in northeastern Italy is renowned for its high-quality white wines. This area borders Austria to the north and Slovenia to the east, with the Adriatic Sea to the south. It is celebrated for its unique combination of cultural influences and diverse landscapes, ranging from the coastal areas along the Adriatic to the Alpine foothills.

Friuli-Venezia Giulia is particularly famous for its white wines, comprising 77% of its production. Key grape varieties include Friulano, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Ribolla Gialla. These wines are known for their crisp acidity, freshness, and aromatic complexity. The region also produces notable red wines from varieties such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and the indigenous Schioppettino.

The region boasts four DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) and twelve DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) appellations. Prominent DOCGs include Colli Orientali del Friuli Picolit and Rosazzo, while notable DOCs encompass Collio, Friuli Grave, and Friuli Isonzo.

The region's climate varies from the Mediterranean influence along the coast to a more continental climate in the inland and northern areas. The diverse terroir, including hilly terrains with well-drained soils and sunny slopes, contributes to the wines' distinctive character. The Alps to the north protect the vineyards from cold winds, while the Adriatic Sea moderates temperatures, providing ideal conditions for vine cultivation.

Friuli-Venezia Giulia has a rich winemaking history that dates back to Roman times. The region's strategic location has made it a crossroads of cultures, influencing its viticultural practices and wine styles. Today, it is known for combining traditional winemaking techniques with modern innovations, producing some of Italy's most acclaimed wines.