Location, Location, Location – The Key to Attems Success
The Attems Winery is located in the heart of the world renowned region of Collio DOC in Italy. This area is famous for producing world class white wines, from the sweet and heavy Tocai Friulano to the light and dry Sauvignon Blanc. The location of the winery speaks volumes to what one tastes in the glass. It is situated along the extreme north east part of Italy. There, the Alps meet the Adriatic Sea creating a perfect microclimate for white wine production. Cold air from the sea creates a cool enough breeze to bring the temperature down, as white grapes do not excel in warmer climates. The Alps block that air from escaping, keeping it over the winery.
Tasting Notes: 2008 Attems Pinot Grigio
In the glass, the wine exhibits a pale yellow, a little light for a Pinot Grigio. The nose was difficult to find, as it was very light, but complex. I sensed some sweet cedar, sawgrass, pencil shavings, minerals, and nectar, but nothing was overpowering. After my first taste, I knew I was drinking an Italian white. It was sweet and light. It had hints of vanilla, grapefruit, and obvious pear, and peanut shell. Overall, it was the citrus and the minerals that came through the strongest though. All in all, this wine was crisp and layered with complexity. This is a fantastic summer drink and a great example of how Italian whites are supposed taste.
