Ulivi Amandis IVAG Vino Bianco '18

This extended skin-contact Cortese from Piedmont's Monferrato region displays deep amber hues and an intoxicating nose of dried apricot, bergamot, and crushed almond. Eight months of maceration in clay amphorae followed by three years in old oak barrels creates remarkable texture and flavors of quince paste, chamomile tea, and a pronounced saline minerality that earned 94 points. The endless finish unfolds with layers of orange zest, honeycomb, and a whisper of fenugreek, best enjoyed with roasted duck or saffron-infused risotto.