Edi Simcic farms a few hectares of the Goriska Brda, the Slovenian hills that run into Friuli across the Italian border, and this is his flagship white. Three grapes go into it: Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, plus Ribolla Gialla, the old local variety that gives the wine its grip and its streak of salt.
- Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Ribolla Gialla.
- Goriska Brda, Slovenia, on the Italian border.
- 2021, a warm vintage across the region.
- 14% ABV, dry, full-bodied, low tannin.
How it is made
Goriska Brda is the same hill system as Collio on the Italian side, and the two share more than a border: the soils are flysch, a layered marl and sandstone that drains fast and forces vines to work. Ribolla Gialla is the region's own white, grown here for centuries and picked late enough to carry real weight.
How it tastes
Ripe yellow fruit first, stone fruit and citrus, then white flowers and a mineral, saline finish. The oak shows as texture rather than toast. Acidity stays high, which holds the full body in place and keeps the finish long and dry.
Good to know
Goriska Brda is officially part of the Brda wine district, and its whites are often compared to Collio across the border. Ribolla Gialla nearly disappeared from the region in the twentieth century before a small group of growers brought it back.
