The Friuli Venezia Giulia region is known for its expressive white wines. The local varieties Ribolla, Friulano and Malvasia are used to make great wines, as are Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio. But there is also a lot going on with the reds!
Friuli Venezia Giulia is without question one of the greatest wine-growing regions in Europe. Wine is grown in almost all parts of the region, the largest being the area of Grave del Friuli in the wide plain, which the Tagliamento River has filled with rock masses from the Alps over millions of years. Ribolla Gialla and Glera have been increasingly planted here in recent years. The wine-growing areas of Latisana, Annia and Aquileia extend towards the sea.
The most sought-after products are from the hilly areas in the east of the region, on the border with Slovenia: Collio near Gorizia and Cormons, the Colli Orientali around Cividale. Great wines also come from the Isonzo wine-growing region, an area to the west of Gorizia, between the Collio and the Karst. Although the area is flat, the barren, mineral-rich soils deposited here by the Isonzo River produce great white wines.
Very unique wines are produced in the Karst, in the hinterland of Trieste. Malvasia and Vitovska are often macerated on the skins here. In addition to Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, local varieties such as Friulano, Ribolla Gialla and Malvasia have gained in profile in recent years.
Climate change is making itself felt in Friuli – but it also has positive aspects here. As a result, more and more excellent red wines are being produced in the vineyards. In addition to Merlot (which can produce surprisingly good results here!), the local varieties Schioppettino, Refosco and Pignolo dominate.
The growing regions
The best-known growing areas are in the east on the border with Slovenia. The hills of the Collio extend from Gorizia northwards to Dolegna. This is followed to the north by the Colli Orientali and to the south by the Karst. Although Isonzo lies in the plain, it has very stony, mineral soils. The largest growing areas are located in the wide plain and are called Grave, Latisana, Aquileia and Annia.
The varieties
Important local varieties are Ribolla Gialla, Friulano and Malvasia. Exciting local red varieties are Schioppettino, Refosco and Pignolo.
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