Due to another heat wave [92 degrees in the middle of April] I found myself reaching for a nicely chilled bottle of white to accompany my dinner centering on whole wheat couscous with smoked cheddar, shallots and cilantro pesto. I fancied something bold and on the sweeter side, yet bright and herbaceous, which made me think of a Friulano, so I plucked a bottle of Quattro Mani Toh-kai 2009 from the fridge. Quattro Mani was established by Italian wine importer Paolo Domenghetti. His concept was to have 4 winemakers create wines representing different Italian regions, utilizing only estate grown grapes, sustainable agriculture and bottling at the estate. The Movia Winery in Slovenia is a stone’s throw from vineyards in the Friuli region of Italy. It was established in 1700 and is biodynamic since being purchased by the Kristancic family in 1820. Today Aleš Kristancic continues on in the family tradition of sustainable, biodynamic, meticulous, low-yield farming, producing fewer than 6,ooo cases of wine a year.

Straw yellow in colour, aromas of orange blossom and freshly cut grass rose from my glass. Vinified in stainless steel for vivid flavours, tart granny smith apple mingled with traces of zippy lemon and fresh herbaceous elements in the medium body.  A balancing, cheerful acidity kept things lively, whilst the finish of sweet honey and refreshing mint skillfully merged into bitter almond notes and elongated the bright finish, bestowing an intriguing mix of sweet and bitter that keeps you reaching for more. This is an expressive, easy drinking glass of sunshine that brightens up any occasion.

100% Tocai
Slovenia
Estate Bottled by Movia Ceglo 18, 5212 Dobrovo
12.5% Alcohol
$10
Enjoy now