# Venica & Venica 'Jesera' Collio Pinot Grigio

- **Producer:** Venica & Venica
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Pinot Grigio
- **Region:** Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €24
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–13 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** pear, peach, apricot, blossom, ginger, butter, toast, honey, almond

## About this wine

Founded in 1930 by Daniele Venica, Venica & Venica is a benchmark family estate spanning over 40 hectares of hillside amphitheaters in Dolegna del Collio. Managed today by the third and fourth generations of the family, the winery is known for its single-vineyard focus, VIVA-certified sustainable practices, and dedication to showcasing the distinct microclimates of Friuli. The 'Jesera' bottling takes its name from a vineyard whose water table is nourished by natural hillside runoff.

## Interesting facts

- The name 'Jesera' comes from the Slovenian word for 'little lake', referring to the local water table fed by hillside runoff.
- Venica recycles natural fermentation CO2 during skin maceration to protect the juice from oxidation and minimize added sulfites.
- Wine bottling is traditionally scheduled around full moon phases between March and July following harvest.

## Food pairing

The medium-plus weight, subtle tactile grip from brief skin maceration, and vibrant acidity enable this white wine to bridge the gap between delicate seafood and richer savory dishes. It cuts through the fat of cured ham and creamy textures while maintaining precision alongside fresh herb notes.

## Wine making process

Grapes are hand-harvested and subjected to cold skin maceration for 4 to 8 hours at 14°C inside presses filled with recycled fermentation carbon dioxide to protect against oxidation. Fermentation occurs across two mediums: 90% in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks and 10% in large oak casks and 500-liter tonneaux. The wine rests on its fine lees for approximately 6 months before being blended and bottled during full moon phases.