About this wine
Vineyard and terroir
The grapes grow on mostly south-facing slopes around the estate, in marl soils. The local microclimate is influenced by warm air from the nearby Adriatic and cool air from the Alps, which meet on the slopes of Capriva del Friuli. The estate covers about 94 hectares, including 40 hectares of vineyards, planted at 4,500–7,000 vines per hectare.
Vinification
The grapes are harvested in late September and gently pressed in a pneumatic press. Fermentation takes place in stainless-steel tanks at a controlled temperature.
Ageing
The wine remains on its lees for eight months before bottling, followed by a further two to three months in bottle.
Tasting profile
Delicate and refined, with pleasant acidity and a subtle, elegant aroma.
Label / history
The estate’s history began in 1869, when the French Count Théodore de La Tour settled in Collio with his wife and pursued vine growing using modern French winemaking methods. He established the estate that later became Villa Russiz, introduced varieties suited to the local microclimate and built a high-vaulted cellar entirely underground. After his death in 1894, Elvine Ritter von Zahony established a children’s home and institute in one of the estate buildings. Under her will, Villa Russiz became a charitable nonprofit organization; the institute remains in operation. Annual production is around 20,000 bottles.
