Cabernet Franc Ferlat 2020

Ferlat's Cabernet Franc is produced in the province of Gorizia, particularly in the area of Cormons, known for producing wines that are faithful to the characteristics of the land and genuine. The winery was founded in 1950, but it wasn't until the 2000s that Silvano and Moreno Ferlat decided to convert from selling bulk wine to marketing bottled wine. Their working philosophy is to create unique wines that are different from each other, that exude a distinct personality and are ambassadors of the territory from which they come; hence, constant attention so that the work in the vineyard and in the cellar is respectful of the natural phases of development of the plants and the raw material in the cellar.

Ferlat's pure Cabernet Franc grapes are grown in a vineyard that is cultivated entirely organically and with a minimal environmental impact, involving minimal human intervention and the rejection of any herbicides or chemicals. In the vineyard, spontaneous grasses are allowed to grow luxuriantly, avoiding drastic pruning; mowing and natural mulching are preferred. Fertilisers are totally natural and come from animals that graze freely and undisturbed. Harvesting takes place in the first ten days of October, and the grapes are picked by hand. In the cellar, the grapes are de-stemmed, crushed and placed in cement vats where alcoholic fermentation takes place thanks to the action of spontaneous yeasts; it macerates 20 days, during which manual punching-down takes place several times a day in order to extract all the contents of the berry. The liquid is separated from the skins: the latter undergo a slight pressure with a vertical press and are then reunited with the must. It matures 15 months in barriques, where malolactic fermentation with indigenous bacteria also takes place.

Ferlat's Cabernet Franc presents itself in the glass as a ruby red with intense nuances. The nose releases aromas of ripe berries, herbaceous hints and toasty, spicy nuances. The palate welcomes a rounded, intense and soft structure with a long persistence on the finish that draws the drinker in. In pairing, it is recommended with grilled or stewed red meats but also with vegetarian dishes; interesting with mature cheeses. A product with all the flavour of the Friuli lands and encapsulating its most authentic flavours, recommended for barbecues in the company of lifelong friends in country locations or for cheerful family celebrations.