Edi Keber Collio DOC Bianco 2022

If this bottle were distilled into a social studies lesson, it would be rife with historical drama and intrigue. Located just a hop, skip, and a jump from the Slovenian border, Edi Keber is a rich expression of the storied history of a region at the crossroads of culture and identity. The region of Friuli has been traded from empire to empire throughout various exchanges of power and world wars (think the Holy Roman Empire, Austro-Hungarian Empire, Kingdom of Lombardy-Venetia, etc.), resulting in a distinctive dialect and culture. Emblematic of the area, the 350-year-old winemaking tradition of the Keber family has its origins in Vienna. Edi and his son Kristian have a deep commitment to the grapes growing on their 10 hectares of vineyards. The nutrient-poor soils, called “ponka,” stress the vines, resulting in small grape yields and distinctive minerality. Embodying the Collio tradition, the Keber family blends Friulano, Malvasia Istriana, and Ribolla Gialla. The grapes are picked at peak maturity and fermented in old cement vats, adding "soul" to the wine. This wine is lush and rich without being opulent, round on the palate, boasting notes of fleshy apricot and bright, zippy green notes. Refreshing and very quaffable thanks to its acidity. Certified organic, biodynamically grown, low-intervention/natural wine, vegan.