A 40% blend of Merlot, 50% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Refosco, the 2007 Friuli Colli Orientali Rosazzo Rosso Narciso (aged in new and neutral oak for 20 months) is an elegant and streamlined wine. Its brushstrokes are bold and thick, yet the wine is not overplayed or over-extracted. It occupies a position that veers towards the modern on the scale of traditional winemaking, yet it also reveals it territorial roots. Mineral tones and Mediterranean herb pop to attention. The structure and density associated with the excellent 2007 vintage also shine through beautifully. Drink: 2015-2022. Founded by Giovanbattista Adami, Ronco delle Betulle is run today by daughter Ivana Adami and son Simone Sechi. The modern incarnation of this estate came to be in the 1990s and its wines faithfully reflect the qualities associated with the historic Rosazzo wine denomination. The samples presented this year performed strongly across the board, but I’d like to make a special call out to the Pignolo-based red. It’s a singular experience. Importer: Riahi Selections, www.riahiselections.com