The 2002 Collio Bianco della Castellada (50% Pinot Grigio, 30% Chardonnay, 20% Sauvignon) is a more focused, less opulent wine than the Sauvignon and has also aged more gracefully. Still quite fresh, it offers beautifully perfumed, sweet fruit and minerals with outstanding length and poise on the palate. La Castellada’s Bianco is often among Friuli’s top whites and the 2002 is simply gorgeous. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2012. La Castellada is located in the hills of Oslavia, just outside Gorizia. Working from a tiny, cramped cellar the outspoken, passionate Niccolo Bensa crafts artisanal wines loaded with personality. The wines, which see partial maceration on the skins, are made in a style that may not appeal to every palate, but readers looking to discover a unique expression of Collio terroir owe it to themselves to check out this winery. The estate favors French oak barrels for aging, with the exception of the Ribolla which is aged in medium-sized casks. Bensa prefers to release his wines, the Rosso in particular, later than most of his colleagues, so these are his current releases. Importer: Domaine Select, New York, NY; tel. (212) 279-0799