
The 2024 Ca’ Bolani Sauvignon Blanc is the sister wine to the previously reviewed Ca’ Bolani Merlot. Grown in the Friuli DOC Aquileia appellation, in the northeastern corner of Italy, it comes from the Zonin family’s extensive collection of estates. Acquired by Zonin in 1970, this was their first venture beyond the Veneto region. With around 600 hectares of vines, the estate ranks among the largest vineyard holdings in northern Italy.
This is a 100% Sauvignon Blanc at 13% ABV. It’s worth giving it at least half an hour to warm from fridge temperature to appreciate everything it offers. Intensely aromatic from the outset, it reveals gooseberry, elderflower, passion fruit, citrus zest and a fresh green tomato leaf character. The taste follows through with vibrant citrus and slight herbal impressions, lifted by a smooth, rounded texture that owes much to ageing on the lees.
There’s a clarity to this wine that feels luxurious. The acidity is firm and gives lasting freshness, even as it warms considerably, and the wine holds together impressively well. Stylistically, it sits somewhere between New Zealand and France, yet confidently occupies its own space.
This is top-tier Sauvignon Blanc. One of the best I’ve ever encountered. It stood out alongside another exceptional Italian example tasted the same week, both of which have led me to rethink my long-held preferences between French, New Zealand, South African and now Italian Sauvignon Blanc.
Available for £25.95 from Shepherds Food in Primrose Hill.













