Sauvignon Friuli Isonzo DOC Picol 2022 - Lis Neris

The Isonzo Valley’s more layered expression of Sauvignon

Lis Neris Picol is a Sauvignon Blanc rooted in the gravelly plateau of San Lorenzo Isontino, in north-eastern Italy. This Friuli Isonzo DOC brings together the grape’s vivid aromatic personality and a more textured, food-friendly style shaped by extended maturation on fine lees. It offers freshness and a distinctly savoury finish rather than relying on perfume alone.

Estate, landscape and vines

Lis Neris is a family winery associated with the Isonzo Valley and the Pecorari family. Picol comes from vineyards around San Lorenzo Isontino, near Gorizia, planted on a gravelly limestone plateau approximately 60 metres above sea level. The winery reports vines averaging more than 30 years of age. These well-drained soils form part of the wine’s strong regional identity.

The vines are Guyot-trained, with roughly 5,200–5,600 plants per hectare. Grapes are harvested by hand and carefully selected. The estate describes sustainability-oriented vineyard management and low-impact products; this should not be confused with a claim of organic certification.

Winemaking and ageing

Made from 100% Sauvignon Blanc, Picol is fermented in stainless-steel tanks, according to the producer. Maturation then combines stainless steel and oak for approximately eleven months on fine lees, with frequent bâtonnage. Bottle ageing follows prior to release.

Lees contact contributes texture and depth, while oak plays a supporting role without obscuring the grape’s characteristic expression. This makes Picol an especially compelling option when a more substantial white is needed at the table.

Aroma, texture and taste

In the glass the wine shows a bright straw-yellow colour. Its aromatic range moves between citrus, white and tropical fruit, elderflower and herbal or leafy nuances. Descriptions of the 2022 vintage mention citron, kiwi, nettle and elderflower.

The palate is generous yet lifted, combining flavour intensity with freshness. A long, saline finish gives the wine definition and balance: a Sauvignon distinguished as much by its texture and persistence as by its fragrance.

Food pairing and serving

Excellent with oven-baked fish, shellfish, vegetable risotto, seafood pasta and delicately prepared poultry. Lis Neris also recommends richly flavoured fish dishes and fresh cheeses. Its structure makes it versatile beyond a simple aperitif.

The estate recommends serving at 11 °C. A reasonably generous white-wine glass allows the aromatic layers to unfold without chilling the wine too heavily.

2022 vintage and critical recognition

The 2022 vintage has been listed with vintage-specific scores including 92/100 from Falstaff, 90/100 from Wine Enthusiast and 94/100 from Doctor Wine. These assessments complement the wine’s defining features: established vineyards, a single grape variety and a patient approach to lees maturation.

At a glance

• Appellation: Friuli Isonzo DOC
• Producer: Lis Neris
• Vintage: 2022
• Grape: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
• Origin: San Lorenzo Isontino, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Italy
• Style: dry still white wine
• Bottle: 750 ml
• Serving temperature: 11 °C