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Friuli

Friuli is a hidden gem in Italy, especially when it comes to high-quality white wines. The region’s varied climate and terroir, combined with a rich winemaking tradition, make Friuli an important destination for wine lovers. From elegant and fresh Sauvignon Blancs to complex Friulano wines, Friuli offers a diversity of flavors that showcase the best of Italian winemaking.

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Friuli: Italy's gem for white wine and terroir-driven winemaking

Friuli, also known as Friuli Venezia Giulia, is located in northeastern Italy, where wine production flourishes thanks to the region's unique climate and diverse terroir. The area borders Austria, Slovenia and the Adriatic Sea, creating an exciting crossroads of cultures and styles that are reflected in the wines.  

Climate and Terroir in Friuli

Friuli has a complex climate, influenced by both the Alps and the Adriatic Sea. The cool mountains to the north and the warm, humid Mediterranean climate from the sea to the south create perfect conditions for wine production. These temperature fluctuations, especially between day and night, help preserve the freshness and acidity of the grapes, which is especially important for the region's famous white wines. Soils vary from clay and sand to stony and calcareous, which allow the grapes to develop intense and complex flavor profiles. Especially in the Collio sub-region, the soil is rich in marl and sandstone, which contributes to the minerality and finesse of the wine.  

Main Grapes in Friuli

Friuli is especially known for its white wines, which are considered some of the best in Italy. Here are the most prominent grapes: Friulano: The region's signature grape, formerly called Tocai Friulano. This white grape produces wines with notes of almond, herbs, pear and citrus, and a distinct mineral edge that makes it a favorite among white wine connoisseurs. Sauvignon Blanc: One of the most widely grown grapes in Friuli, it creates fresher, less tropical wines here compared to other areas, with elegant notes of gooseberry, green pepper and herbs. Pinot Grigio: Friuli produces some of the world's best Pinot Grigio, characterized by freshness, purity and delicate flavors of pear, apple and citrus with a subtle mineral finish. On the red side, there's also a focus on quality, with grapes like Merlot, Refosco and Cabernet Franc thriving in the warmer regions.  

Production methods in Friuli

Winemakers in Friuli combine traditional winemaking with modern techniques, ensuring clean, fresh and terroir-driven wines. Many wineries in Friuli use organic and biodynamic methods to ensure sustainable production and preserve the area's unique biodiversity. There is a strong focus on freshness and elegance, so wines are often fermented at low temperatures to preserve the natural aromas of the grapes. White wines from Friuli are known for their bright acidity and fruity intensity, often without excessive barrel aging, allowing the terroir to shine through.  

Wine classifications in Friuli

Friuli has several recognized DOC and DOCG areas, ensuring high quality and regional authenticity. The main classifications include:   Collio DOC: Known for its elegant and mineral white wines, especially based on grapes like Friulano and Sauvignon Blanc. Colli Orientali del Friuli DOC: This area produces both excellent white and red wines, including Refosco and Merlot, as well as complex dessert wines like Picolit. Grave del Friuli DOC: A broad area where both white and red wines thrive. Pinot Grigio and Merlot are the stars here.  

Food culture in Friuli

Friuli's cuisine reflects the cultural diversity of the region, with influences from Italy, Austria and Slovenia. The food culture is rustic and varied, with a mix of fish from the Adriatic, game and meat dishes from the mountainous areas. Prosciutto di San Daniele, one of Italy's most famous hams, comes from Friuli and pairs perfectly with the region's white wines like Friulano or Sauvignon Blanc. Other local delicacies like frico (a crispy cheese pancake) and goulash also find their match with the region's wines, especially Refosco and Merlot, which complement the rich and spicy flavors.