Best Friuli Venezia Giulia Wines to Try in 2024
Curious about Friuli Venezia Giulia wines? Northeastern Italyโs rising star, this region is gaining acclaim for white wines like Pinot Grigio and Ribolla Gialla and bold reds such as Merlot and Refosco. This guide will walk you through the top picks 2024, revealing what makes these wines so special and why you should be tasting them. Ready to pull the cork?
Key Takeaways
Friuli Venezia Giulia is celebrated for its high-quality white wines, including Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay. It also produces notable red wines, such as Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso.
The regionโs unique geographical position between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea creates an ideal climate for viticulture, influencing its winemaking styles and the distinct characteristics of its wines.
Ribolla Gialla and Friulano are two unique white varietals from Friuli Venezia Giulia, known for their distinct flavors and historical significance, contributing to the regionโs rich viticultural heritage.
Table of Contents
Discovering Friuli Venezia Giulia Wines
Friuli Venezia Giulia is renowned for producing some of the best Italian white wines, with an impressive collection including Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay. While the region is predominantly known for its exceptional white wines, it also offers various styles, including unique blends and high-quality sparkling wines. Nearly 62% of the wine produced here falls under a DOC designation, reflecting the regionโs commitment to quality.
Donโt let the white wine hype fool you, though. Friuli Venezia Giulia’s reds are also the real deal. Merlot, Cab Franc, and the local legend Refosco offer depth and character to knock your socks off. This place is a wine lover’s paradise, red or white.
With 11 DOC and 3 DOCG designations, Friuli Venezia Giulia stands out as a premier wine region in Italy. Along with Veneto and Trentino-Alto Adige, it forms the Tre Venezie wine region, known for producing high-quality wines that showcase northeastern Italy’s unique terroir and winemaking expertise.
Geographical Influence on Winemaking
Between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea, Friuli Venezia Giulia shares borders with Slovenia to the east and Austria to the north. This unique positioning influences both the regionโs climate and winemaking practices. The warm days and cool nights, coupled with the cool winds from the Adriatic, help to balance the acidity and sugar levels in the grapes, creating wines with remarkable freshness and complexity.
The region’s winemaking styles significantly reflect Slovenia and Austria’s influence. Historical interactions and cultural exchanges have led to a blend of techniques that enhance the regionโs wine quality. For example, they favor oak barrels, a practice popular in Austria that imparts nutty aromas and vanilla notes to some wines. The local grape varieties, such as Chardonnay, Merlot, and Ribolla Gialla, thrive in the varied soils, ranging from calcium-rich marl and sandstone to clay, sand, and gravel.
The hilly areas of the region, especially the south-facing slopes near the foothills of the Alps, receive abundant sunlight and cool breezes, providing ideal viticulture conditions. These conditions are perfect for producing high-quality white wines, which is this region’s hallmark. The diverse terroir and microclimates ensure that each vineyard can produce wines with distinct characteristics, showcasing the regionโs rich winemaking heritage and making it one of the most renowned wine regions.
Unique White Varietals: Ribolla Gialla and Friulano
Two unique varietalsโRibolla Gialla and Friulanoโare among the standout white wines of Friuli Venezia Giulia. These grapes produce wines with distinct flavors and characteristics, reflecting the regionโs rich viticultural tradition.
Letโs sample the unique attributes of these varietal wines.
Ribolla Gialla
Ribolla Gialla wines are a testament to the elegance and complexity of Friuli Venezia Giuliaโs white wines. Balsamic and mineral notes characterize these wines; they have good acidity and a balanced body and alcohol content. They are dry, fresh, and intense, making them an excellent choice for those who appreciate a sophisticated white. The high acidity and minerality of Ribolla Gialla make it a perfect match for grilled vegetables and white fish.
A resurgence of Ribolla Gialla in the 1990s from international demand and modern techniques brought this varietal back into the spotlight. Today, it symbolizes the regionโs ability to revive and elevate traditional grapes, offering wine lovers a unique tasting experience.
Friulano
Friulano is another jewel in the crown of Friuli Venezia Giulia wines, a region known for its exquisite Friuli wines. These wines are known for their:
Crisp, floral aromas
Notes of nuts and fennel as they age
Medium-bodied structure
Moderate acidity
A signature hint of bitterness from the grapeโs skin adds a distinct character to the wine.
Traditionally vinified in stainless steel tanks to maintain fresh and fruity characteristics, some winemakers experiment with oak barrels to add complexity and longevity. Friulano pairs perfectly with prosciutto and other cured meats, making it a versatile choice for an easy dinner or quick get-together.
The Art of Orange Wine Production
Orange wine production in Friuli Venezia Giulia combines ancient techniques with modern innovations. This style of wine, where the grape skins and seeds remain in contact with the juice during maceration, dates back 5,000 years to its origins in Georgia. This method has been revived and refined in Friuli Venezia Giulia, creating wines with a distinctive orange hue and complex flavor profile.
The village of Oslavia is recognized as the epicenter of modern-day orange wines. Winemakers here use local grape varieties like Ribolla Gialla for their orange wines, employing extended maceration to extract unique flavors and aromas. Notable examples include Malvasia by Il Carpino, a well-structured and full-bodied orange wine with intense aromas of dried fruit, honey, and yellow fruit in syrup.
The influence of the slow food movement has also significantly contributed to the popularity of orange wines in the region. Winemakers like Edi Kante have experimented with this technique using various grape varieties, including Chardonnay and Vitovska, to produce rich, complex, and distinctly Friulian wines.
Innovative Winemaking Techniques
Winemakers in Friuli Venezia Giulia are at the forefront of blending traditional methods with cutting-edge technologies. Known collectively as metodo friulano, these techniques emphasize high quality, often resulting in more costly wines than other Italian whites. This commitment to excellence is evident in the meticulous processes used to craft these wines.
In the 1960s, Friuli winemakers pioneered modern techniques for white winemaking by quickly separating juice from grape skins and preventing oxidation
What is the best way to aerate red wine ... More. These innovations have set the standard for producing crisp, clean white wines that retain their natural flavors and aromas. Francesco (Joลกko) Gravner, a visionary in winemaking, brought authentic Qvevri to Oslavia in 1997, experimenting with long macerations and transforming the regionโs approach to winemaking.
The combination of long tried and true practices, such as maceration on the skins, with modern innovations has allowed Friuli winemakers to produce traditional and contemporary wines. This unique approach ensures that the wines of Friuli Venezia Giulia stand out for their quality and distinctiveness.
Exploring the Collio Region
Collio, a prestigious sub-region within Friuli Venezia Giulia, is renowned for high-quality white wines and unique terroir. Established as a DOC in 1968, Collio encompasses around 1,500 hectares of vineyards, contributing significantly to the regionโs wine production.
Collio wines, known for their nutty aromas, smoky flavors, and hints of vanilla, are often linked to using oak barrels during production.
Overview of Collio
The picturesque rolling hills and quaint villages of Collio serve as a perfect setting for viticulture. The hilly terrain and microclimate of Collio play a crucial role in producing high-quality white wines. Some of the grape varieties grown in Collio include:
Pinot Grigio
Pinot Bianco
Tocai Friulano
Sauvignon
The unique terroir, with its mineral-rich soils and favorable climate, imparts distinct mineral qualities and freshness to the wines.
As one of the first DOC regions in Italy, Collio has a long-standing reputation for excellence in winemaking. This regionโs commitment to producing high-quality wines has made it a benchmark for Italian white wines, attracting wine enthusiasts worldwide.
Notable Wineries in Collio
Several notable wineries in Collio showcase the regionโs rich winemaking tradition. Tenuta Luisa, established in 1907, offers a variety of packages for visitors, highlighting its long history and quality wines. La Viarte Winery, founded in 1973, spans 34 hectares, with two-thirds dedicated to vineyards, and produces both traditional and innovative wines.
Azienda Agricola Primosic is another renowned winery in Collio, known for its dedication to traditional and modern winemaking techniques. These wineries exemplify the regionโs ability to produce exceptional wines that reflect the unique characteristics of Collioโs terroir.
Red Wines of Friuli Venezia Giulia
In addition to the acclaim for Friuli Venezia Giuliaโs whites, its red wines deserve some admiration. Red wines account for 30% of the regionโs production, offering diverse flavors and styles. Some of the black grape varieties that are integral to the regionโs red wine portfolio include:
Terrano
Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso
Pignolo
Schioppettino
Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso, an autochthonous grape, stands out for its unique characteristics, which become more apparent after several tastings. This grape produces wines with rich, complex flavors that truly reflect the regionโs terroir. Merlot, another prominent red varietal, pairs wonderfully with roasted meats and hearty stews, emphasizing its rich flavors.
The diverse range of Italian wines, especially red wines from Friuli Venezia Giulia, ensures that something suits every palate. Whether you prefer the bold flavors of Cabernet Franc or the nuanced complexity of Refosco, the red wines of this region are sure to delight.
Sweet Wines and Dessert Wines
Friuli Venezia Giulia produces sweet and dessert wines that match the modern palate. Providing a unique and indulgent oenological experience. These additional Friuli Venezia Giulia wine options, produced in the regionโs Friuli vineyards, showcase unique flavors and traditional production methods, making them an interesting addition to any wine collection.
Picolit
Picolit is one of the most prized sweet wines from Friuli Venezia Giulia, known for its rarity and exquisite taste. Picolit offers a delicate balance of acidity and sweetness characterized by floral aromas with peach and apricot flavors. The production process involves allowing grapes to dry partially on the vine, concentrating their sugars and flavors.
Historically popular in royal courts across Europe during the 18th century, Picolit continues to be celebrated for its unique profile and elegance. This prestigious, sweet wine is a testament to the regionโs rich winemaking heritage and dedication to quality.
Ramandolo
Ramandolo, another distinguished sweet wine from Friuli Venezia Giulia, is known for its golden color
What role do Anthocyanins play in wine? ... More and intense, characteristic scent. Made exclusively from Verduzzo Friuliano grapes, Ramandolo often involves developing โnoble rotโ (botrytis cinerea), enhancing its sweet and complex profile.
This full-bodied and velvety wine exhibits moderate acidity and evolves from sweetish to pleasantly sweet with hints of wood from barrel aging. Ramandoloโs rich and complex flavors make it a perfect wine for special occasions, reflecting the regionโs tradition and expertise in sweet wine production.
Food Pairings with Friuli Venezia Giulia Wines
Friuli Venezia Giulia wines are great on their own, but try them with food, trust us.
Friulano, for instance, isn’t just some fancy name. It’s a crisp, dry white that begs for a pile of shellfish or a hearty slab of cured meat. Trust me, it’ll wake your taste buds up like a slap in the face. And don’t be afraid to pair it with a risotto โ the creamy richness is a perfect foil for the wine’s acidity.
Pinot Grigio from this region? Forget the watery stuff your friend always serves. This is the real deal. It’s got a backbone of minerality that cuts through the richness of seafood like a hot knife through butter. We’re talking about shellfish, lightfish, and anything that swims.
Malvasia Bianca is your new best friend if you’re into spicy food. This wine is like a cool cucumber after a fiery curry. It’s got the body to stand up to the heat and the acidity to refresh your palate.
And let’s not forget good old Prosecco. It’s the perfect way to kick off a meal and is great with light pasta. It’s refreshing, bubbly, and won’t weigh you down.
The Last Drop
In conclusion, Friuli Venezia Giulia is a treasure trove of exceptional wines, from its renowned white varietals like Ribolla Gialla and Friulano to its impressive red and delightful sweet wines. The regionโs unique geography, innovative winemaking techniques, and rich tradition make it a standout in the world of wine.
As you explore the wines of Friuli Venezia Giulia, you will discover a world of flavors and aromas that reflect the regionโs dedication to quality and craftsmanship. Whether you are savoring a crisp white wine or a rich red, the wines of Friuli Venezia Giulia are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Friuli Venezia Giulia wines unique?
Friuli Venezia Giulia wines are unique because of the diverse geography, climate, and influence from neighboring countries. These factors result in high-quality wines with distinct flavors.
What are some notable white varietals from Friuli Venezia Giulia?
Some notable white varietals from Friuli Venezia Giulia are Ribolla Gialla and Friulano, with Ribolla Gialla known for its balsamic and mineral notes and Friulano offering crisp, floral aromas with nutty and fennel notes as it ages.
How is orange wine produced in Friuli Venezia Giulia?
Orange wine in Friuli Venezia Giulia is produced by allowing white grape skins and seeds to remain in contact with the juice during maceration, resulting in a distinctive orange hue and complex flavor profile.
What are some key regions within Friuli Venezia Giulia for wine production?
Some key regions for wine production in Friuli Venezia Giulia are the Collio region, famous for its high-quality white wines, and the Friuli Colli Orientali, known for its diverse range of varietal wines.
What foods pair well with Friuli Venezia Giulia wines?
Friuli Venezia Giulia wines are versatile enough to pair with any food. Friulano goes well with seafood, cured meats, and risotto, while Pinot Grigio matches seafood dishes well. Malvasia Bianca complements spicy Asian cuisine, and Prosecco suits appetizers and light pasta.
