The 2005 Vintage Tunina reveals licorice, yellow stone fruits and suggestions of oak, but the flavors are somewhat diluted, the finish is short and the layered quality this wine usually possesses is missing. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2010. Silvio Jermann was among the early leaders in the move towards high quality wines in Friuli. His Vintage Tunina, a field blend of late-harvested fruit, was a trail blazing wine in the 1980s even if today it is not always as outstanding as it used to be. Jermann has finally finished construction of what can only be described as a massive, cavernous cellar in Ruttars, the source of the fruit for his Capo Martino and Pignolo. The estate makes a set of entry-level varietal wines as well as its top bottlings, most of which are blends. Jermann appears to have been more successful with his whites in 2004 and 2006. His 2005s seem to lack body as well complexity.Importer: Empson, USA, Alexandria, VA; tel. (703) 684-0900.

This layered blend of Chardonnay, Sauvignon, Ribolla Gialla, Malvasia and Picolit delivers intense aromatic waves of fresh apricot, citrus and passion fruit. There’s also a floral musky tone at the back that adds dimension and weight and the wine imparts a smooth, velvety feel.——M.L.(8/1/2009)—— 90