The 2006 Sauvignon is a textbook, reference point expression of varietal and terroir. It offers perfumed aromatics along with citrus, tomato leaf and mint overtones, showing excellent length and a clean, fresh finish. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2009. Villa Russiz is a unique property in that it is run as a non-profit organization whose mission is to improve the lives of needy children. Oenologist Gianni Menotti is one of the leading lights of the Friulian wine scene. His considerable skills are on display in this terrific set of releases which are among the most consistently outstanding wines I tasted from Friuli this year. The estate releases a set of entry-level wines plus its higher-end “de La Tour” bottlings which bear the name of the original owner of the estate, French Count Theodore de La Tour. Menotti told me he was very happy with the 2006 vintage because it gave him the perfect conditions to make the wines he likes most; fat, ripe wines with plenty of structure yet balanced by freshness and aromatic complexity. After undergoing fermentation in stainless steel, the whites are left on the lees until the Spring after the harvest which gives the wines their open textures. With the exception of the Chardonnay de La Tour (partly aged in oak), Menotti prefers that his whites not undergo malolactic fermentation in order to maintain as much freshness as possible.Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900

Villa Russiz offers an elegant and delicately balanced Sauvignon that puts equal emphasis on bouquet and mouthfeel. You’ll get aromas of passion fruit, cut grass, tomato leaf and the density and crispness necessary for keeping the palate refreshed.——M.L.(3/1/2009)—— 87