Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
Venko comes from the vineyard of the Sant'Elena estate in the heart of Collio. The vines grow at 400 metres above sea level on terraced, gently sloping hills in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, a region of coastal plains, mountains and plateaus. The province borders Austria and Slovenia, and the peaks of the Alps shelter it from harsh, cold winds. The Adriatic Sea tempers summer heat and softens sharp changes in winter temperature. Sea breezes blow north towards the hills at dawn and back south to the coast in the evening, which limits fungal disease and keeps the vines healthy. Rainfall is usually heavy but brief rather than prolonged. Together with the bright, sunny climate, this favours ripening juicy, aromatic grapes.
Vinification
The grapes are harvested at the end of September, and some of them are dried for 8 weeks. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks.
Ageing
The wine ages for 24 months in both stainless steel and oak barrels. The 2017 vintage is expected to reach peak maturity between 2023 and 2029.
Label / history
Fantinel's owner, Mario Fantinel, previously ran several hotels and restaurants. He was drawn to the land and founded the family business in Friuli. In his winemaking he applied the principle of absolute quality in everything.
