Gravner 2-Pack with 6 Glasses 2017 (1.5L)

95 Points, Monica Larner, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The Gravner 2017 Ribolla shows a deep, intensely colored orange hue, reflecting extended skin contact and a vintage marked by significant rainfall that encouraged widespread botrytis. Produced on Ponca soils of marl and sandstone that lend both structure and salinity, the wine continues Gravner’s long-evolved philosophy that began with experimental macerations in 1996 and transitioned fully to amphorae aging inspired by Georgian tradition in 1997. Georgia was coming out of civil war, and the clay vessels used for winemaking were very difficult to source. The wine is fully botrytized, and that pronounced sweetness works to soften and break apart the tannic structure, creating a compelling contrast between richness, residual sugar, acidity and grip. Despite its power, there is notable freshness that carries through the finish, bringing lift and balance while maintaining firm white-wine tannins. The estate does not monitor residual sugar, so we don't have an exact measure for this vintage's sweetness, but you will taste it. The 2017 is sold in a limited release of 3,000 magnums (in a wooden box containing two magnums plus Gravner's special tasting glasses) and celebrates the estate's 20 years working with clay amphorae." 04/26