The 2008 Sauvignon Blanc Piere is a fabulous wine. Expressive varietal aromatics are deftly balanced by pears, white peaches and almonds. There is a weightless elegance to the Piere in 2008 that is particularly beautiful. Pure, crystalline aromas and flavors come together in the glass, supported by a chiseled vein of minerality that gives the wine its sense of proportion. The finish is textured and totally harmonious. This is a stunning 2008 Sauvignon considering how challenging the harvest was for most growers. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2016. This is a beautiful set of wines from Vie di Romans and proprietor Gianfranco Gallo. Vintage 2008 wasn't easy, which makes these wines all the more commendable. At press time I was notified that the estate's importer would change with the 2009 vintage. Readers should be aware that Vie di Romans is owned by members of my wife's extended family. I have always viewed education as an important component of wine criticism. An article on Friuli without these wines would have been incomplete and ultimately the consumer would have been poorer for their exclusion. For those reasons I have chosen to include the wines in this report. Neither my wife nor I have any financial or other interest, direct or indirect, in this property. Importer: Vias Imports, New York, NY; tel. (212) 629-0200