Illivio

from $66.00

Livio Felluga

Livio Felluga
Illivio

Livio Felluga is one of the most respected producers of Friuli, dedicating his life to reviving high-quality and sustainable viticulture in the hills of this north-eastern, Adriatic-influenced Italian countryside. He emigrated from Istria and established his property in Brazzano in the 1950s, buying up old, neglected vineyards and rejuvenating them. Illuvio was created in 1998 by Livio Felluga’s children, who dedicated the wine to him for his 85th birthday. Unlike his signature varietal series, done in stainless, this blend of Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay and Picolit was fermented and aged in small oak casks on lees. Perfumed white peach, apricot, quince, fresh green herbs, and almond floods the creamy palate, cushioned by wood, but held taut with a brace of stony acidity which carries this through a lingering finish. Quite impressive.

“The 2021 Illivio, a blend of Pinot Bianco, Chardonnay and Piccolit, takes its time in the glass, sweetly alluring with a tinge of vanilla bean that embellishes fresh sliced peaches. Split pine and mint aromas add contrast. The 2021 soothes with its silky textures and supple character, bending around the contours of the palate as nectarine and bitter lemon rind notes collect under an air of pretty inner florals. Its minerality comes through the finish, classically dry and tense, as Asian pear and exotic spices slowly fade. While already showing beautifully today, the 2021 will show its best after a few years of cellaring. Drink: 2025 – 2032.” – 94+ points, Eric Guido, Vinous, December 2023.”