At a glance

Producer

Radikon

Region

Friuli Venezia Giulia, Italy

Grape variety

Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio (blend)

Wine type

Orange

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$60-$80

Tasting profile

Complex orange hue with aromas of dried apricot, orange peel, hazelnuts, and subtle oxidative notes. Mouthfeel is broad and textured with persistent mineral finish.

Evolution: Develops deeper nutty, honeyed, and earthy tertiary characteristics with integrated tannins

At peak: Balanced complexity with harmonious interplay of fruit, tannin, acidity, and oxidation-derived complexity

Structure

Acidity

High acidity providing freshness and aging backbone

Tannins

Medium to medium-high, characteristic firm phenolics from skin maceration

Alcohol

13.5%-14%

Aging potential

10-15 years, potentially longer given producer’s natural winemaking style and vintage quality

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2026 to 2044

Optimal window

2024 to 2047

Current status

Drinkable now with good complexity; capable of evolving further

Current condition

The 2019 vintage is still youthful but showing early tertiary notes with good vibrancy

Radikon’s Oslavje is an iconic natural orange wine made from a blend of traditional white grape varieties with extended skin contact leading to tannin and phenolic structure uncommon in whites. The 2019 vintage has a freshness and structure to support over a decade of evolution, with peak maturity occurring 7-12 years post vintage when the wine gains optimum complexity and harmony.

Food pairing

Pairs well with rich seafood dishes, aged cheeses, mushroom risottos, pork belly, and dishes with saffron or autumnal spices.

Serving

Serving temperature

12-14°C / 54-57°F

Decant

Yes (30-60 minutes) — To soften tannins and allow complex aromatics to open up

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 9/10

Radikon uses biodynamic viticulture practices, minimal intervention in the cellar, natural fermentation without added yeasts, minimal SO2 at bottling, and reuses local natural corks and lightweight bottles.

Radikon is widely regarded as a pioneer in natural and biodynamic winemaking in Friuli Venezia Giulia, emphasizing ecological balance, soil health, and minimal processing. Their attention to sustainable packaging, avoidance of synthetic chemicals, and emphasis on terroir expression results in a highly sustainable wine production model. Their impact is minimized through efficient vineyard management, renewable energy use, and promoting biodiversity in the estate.