Radikon
Radikon is a pioneering winery located in the Oslavia region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, near Italy’s border with Slovenia. Founded by Stanko Radikon in the late 1970s and now run by his son Saša, the estate is renowned for its groundbreaking approach to winemaking, particularly in the production of skin-contact (orange) wines.
With a deep commitment to traditional methods and sustainable viticulture, Radikon cultivates approximately 12 hectares of vineyards on the region’s unique ponca soils—a mix of marl and sandstone that contributes to the mineral-driven character of their wines. The estate grows primarily indigenous grape varieties such as Ribolla Gialla, along with Friulano, Merlot, and Pinot Grigio.
Radikon's philosophy centers on minimal intervention and respect for nature. The vineyards are farmed organically, without synthetic chemicals, and in the cellar, fermentation occurs naturally with indigenous yeasts. The hallmark of Radikon wines is their extended maceration, with white grapes left on their skins for weeks or months, a process that gives the wines their distinctive amber hue, complexity, and textural depth.
The wines are unfiltered, unfined, and bottled without added sulfur, resulting in authentic, living expressions of the vineyard. Radikon’s bold, uncompromising style has earned the winery a cult following among enthusiasts of natural and orange wines, positioning it as one of the most influential producers in the world of low-intervention winemaking.
Radikon is a pioneering winery located in the Oslavia region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, near Italy’s border with Slovenia. Founded by Stanko Radikon in the late 1970s and now run by his son Saša, the estate is renowned for its groundbreaking approach to winemaking, particularly in the production of skin-contact (orange) wines.
With a deep commitment to traditional methods and sustainable viticulture, Radikon cultivates approximately 12 hectares of vineyards on the region’s unique ponca soils—a mix of marl and sandstone that contributes to the mineral-driven character of their wines. The estate grows primarily indigenous grape varieties such as Ribolla Gialla, along with Friulano, Merlot, and Pinot Grigio.
Radikon's philosophy centers on minimal intervention and respect for nature. The vineyards are farmed organically, without synthetic chemicals, and in the cellar, fermentation occurs naturally with indigenous yeasts. The hallmark of Radikon wines is their extended maceration, with white grapes left on their skins for weeks or months, a process that gives the wines their distinctive amber hue, complexity, and textural depth.
The wines are unfiltered, unfined, and bottled without added sulfur, resulting in authentic, living expressions of the vineyard. Radikon’s bold, uncompromising style has earned the winery a cult following among enthusiasts of natural and orange wines, positioning it as one of the most influential producers in the world of low-intervention winemaking.
Radikon is a pioneering winery located in the Oslavia region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, near Italy’s border with Slovenia. Founded by Stanko Radikon in the late 1970s and now run by his son Saša, the estate is renowned for its groundbreaking approach to winemaking, particularly in the production of skin-contact (orange) wines.
With a deep commitment to traditional methods and sustainable viticulture, Radikon cultivates approximately 12 hectares of vineyards on the region’s unique ponca soils—a mix of marl and sandstone that contributes to the mineral-driven character of their wines. The estate grows primarily indigenous grape varieties such as Ribolla Gialla, along with Friulano, Merlot, and Pinot Grigio.
Radikon's philosophy centers on minimal intervention and respect for nature. The vineyards are farmed organically, without synthetic chemicals, and in the cellar, fermentation occurs naturally with indigenous yeasts. The hallmark of Radikon wines is their extended maceration, with white grapes left on their skins for weeks or months, a process that gives the wines their distinctive amber hue, complexity, and textural depth.
The wines are unfiltered, unfined, and bottled without added sulfur, resulting in authentic, living expressions of the vineyard. Radikon’s bold, uncompromising style has earned the winery a cult following among enthusiasts of natural and orange wines, positioning it as one of the most influential producers in the world of low-intervention winemaking.
Biodyna
Organic
Biodynamic
Natural
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Radikon’s wines are bold, unconventional, and transformative, representing the essence of the Oslavia region and the philosophy of natural winemaking. Best known for their skin-contact (orange) wines, Radikon’s portfolio showcases remarkable depth, complexity, and character, with each bottle offering a unique sensory experience. Crafted with extended maceration and minimal intervention, these wines challenge traditional notions of winemaking while honoring the land and its heritage.
Skin-Contact (Orange) Wines
Radikon’s orange wines are the heart of their production, crafted from white grape varieties with extended skin contact. These wines are amber-hued, textural, and layered with complexity.
Ribolla Gialla: The flagship wine, made from the estate’s native Ribolla Gialla grape. Fermented with six months of skin contact, it is rich and structured, with aromas of dried apricot, orange peel, and herbal tea. The palate is textured and mineral-driven, with a long, savory finish.
Oslavje: A blend of Ribolla Gialla, Friulano, and Chardonnay, macerated for about three months. This wine offers a harmonious balance of fruit, floral, and earthy notes, with hints of honey, nuts, and spices, and a velvety, tannic structure.
Jakot (Friulano): A deep, amber-colored wine with aromas of ripe pear, almonds, and wildflowers. On the palate, it is full-bodied and complex, with a unique interplay of fruit, tannin, and minerality.
Red Wines
Radikon’s reds are equally distinctive, combining structure and elegance with vibrant natural energy.
Merlot: A robust and earthy wine with aromas of dark berries, plums, and dried herbs. The extended aging in large Slavonian oak barrels adds depth and roundness, with fine tannins and a long finish.
Pignoli: A rare and unique red wine made from the indigenous Pignolo grape. Intense and rustic, it features flavors of black fruit, spice, and forest floor, supported by firm tannins and a bold structure.
Philosophy and Style
Radikon’s wines are deeply influenced by their extended maceration and aging process, often lasting several years in large barrels and additional time in the bottle before release. The wines are unfiltered, unfined, and bottled without added sulfur, resulting in vibrant, living expressions that evolve over time.
The signature style of Radikon wines includes:
Complex Aromatics: Notes of dried fruit, citrus zest, herbs, and earthy nuances.
Textural Depth: A tannic grip and structured mouthfeel rarely found in white wines.
Authenticity: A pure expression of the vineyard, with natural yeasts and no additives.
Radikon wines are not only a sensory experience but also a philosophical statement. They demand time, attention, and an open mind, making them beloved by natural wine enthusiasts and those seeking wines that tell a story of tradition, place, and innovation.
