Jermann Vintage Tunina 2016 (750ML)

96 JS / 94 WA / 94 WE

This is really beautiful with so much mango, pineapple and lemon character. Hints of honeysuckle, too. Full body, intense dried fruit and vibrant acidity. Great Italian white blend. Screw cap. Drink or hold.—James Suckling

This white blend enjoys one of the most popular and heartfelt followings in the varied and beautiful world of vino Italiano. The 2016 Vintage Tunina is a blend of 25% Chardonnay, 25% Sauvignon Blanc, 22% Ribolla Gialla, 23% Malvasia and 5% Picolit. Despite the complexity of the blend, each variety shows its distinct personality with varying degrees of intensity. For example, there is no mistaking the radiant fragrances of the Sauvignon Blanc and the floral layers of the Malvasia. The Chardonnay gives the wine its textual fiber and core weight. The two indigenous grapes, Ribolla Gialla and Picolit, add unmistakable territory-specific personality with lush Mediterranean fruits. Fermentation is kicked off with indigenous yeast in stainless steel. Once 5% or 6% alcohol is achieved, one-quarter of the must is moved to Slavonian oak casks, where it completes fermentation. The wine then rests in oak for 11 months. Production is 69,000-bottles strong.—Monica Larner, The Wine Advocate

One of Italy's most iconic white wines, this radiant blend of Chardonnay, Sauvignon, Ribolla Gialla and Malvasia opens with aromas of spring wildflower, white and yellow stone fruit and sun-warmed hay. Vibrant and boasting tension and elegance, the linear delicious palate doles out ripe apricot, creamy white peach and juicy grapefruit before a white-almond and saline close. –Kerin O’Keefe, Wine Enthusiast