Damiano Meroi comes from a well-known winemaking family in Friuli-Venezia-Giulia. Their family winery, Meroi, has been a benchmark producer in the region for years. But Matter is his personal project, a fresh departure from the more intense, age-worthy style the region is sometimes known for. Where traditional Friuli wines often aim for power and longevity, Matter values finesse and approachability: wines meant to be opened young and enjoyed without ceremony. The grapes come from certified organically farmed vineyards, and Damiano plans to convert future estate vineyards to biodynamic farming. In the cellar, he relies on spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel and little to no sulfur additions. This is Damiano's first release to the U.S. market and a national exclusive to us.

Friulano (known as tocai friulano until EU regulations forced a name change in 2007) is Friuli's best-known white grape, producing wines of remarkable texture and complexity. Damiano Meroi's version comes from volcanic soils in Collio Goriziano. 2021 is textbook friulano: waxy texture, medium-bodied, notes of cherry blossom and a distinctive bitter almond note on the finish. Compelling and enchanting. Drink now or hold for 5+ years.