Grecanico Dorato, Mandrarossa, Sicily

Fondo Indizeno is a new project from renowned winemaker Christian Patat, one of Friuli’s most faithful advocates and a man who has done so much to promote this area. Fondo Indizeno's vineyards are spread over three villages in the Colli Orientali del Friuli, which were chosen due to their excellent quality terroir; Buttrio, Prepotto and Premariacco. They works with 15 hectares of very old vines, between 30-40 years, planted on marl based soils (locally known as “Ponca”). The vines benefit from a Mediterranean climate, with continental influences, hot summers, cold winters and dry autumns. The vineyards are planted with Ribolla Gialla, Chardonnay, Friulano, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Bianco and Malvasia.The idea of this project is an introduction to Friuli’s best wines, to showcase the quality achievable and the area's potential. Each wine is dedicated to a producer whose wines have brought prestige to a particular grape variety, for example Ribolla Gialla is named after Stanko Radikon, who spent his life promoting this variety. While Chardonnay is dedicated to Nicola Manferrari who is one of the best interpreters of this grape.  As with all Christians wines, they are impeccably executed, expressive styles, which are exemplary of Friulian wine and really showcase this areas potential.This is a food-friendly example of Sauvignon Blanc, less of the intense nettle and gooseberry flavour and more subtle, herbal notes. A really refreshing take on the grape; here it's all about balance and creating a wine that will enhance your meal, not stamp all over it!Delicious with sushi, or simple grilled white fish. It would also work well with seared tuna steak.