The 2007 Bianco Kaplja is the most complete of these wines. A blend of Chardonnay, Friulano and Malvasia Istriana, the Kaplja finds a wonderful sense of poise and centeredness in its expressive aromatics and silky, textured fruit. This shows wonderful polish and class from start to finish. It is the most approachable of Damijan’s 2007 whites and also the best starting point for readers who want to explore this style of winemaking. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2022.
Damijan Podversic is another of the young growers in Friuli who amply deserves more attention. These densely planted vineyards are farmed meticulously, while the approach in the stripped down winery is equally minimalist. Deeply influenced by his friend and mentor Josko Gravner, Damijan crafts gorgeous, textured whites. The wines see extended skin contact and are aged in cask. The wines need to be opened an hour or two in advance and should be served at cellar temperature or slightly above (but not chilled) in red wine glasses.
No American importer.