Friuli

Cuddled up to the Slovenian border in the northeast of Italy, Friuli is an intriguing region. Accounting for a measly 2% of Italy’s total production, it is an important producer of quality wine, with over half of those bearing the DOC certification. Its stock has risen recently, having brought Pinot Grigio to the attention of the world. Nestled between the Alpine foothills and the Adriatic sea, its tapestry of steep slopes, calcareous marl soils, and ancient alluvial flood planes provide the intrepid wine lover with a journey full of adventure and surprise.

Vine cultivation in Friuli dates back to at least the 6th century BC with the Venetic and Celtic tribes. It was, however, the Romans who brought with them techniques for crafting high quality wines, from viticulture and vinification. Over the following centuries, many people have come to occupy the area, bringing with them all sorts of grape varieties. Throughout the varied terroir, one can expect to find Sauvignon Blanc, Ribolla Gialla, Tocai Friulano and Malvasia Istriana making with light feet and aromatic intensity, through to rich, deeply structure delights. Similarly, the reds range from light, sappy and refreshing through to hearty, deep purple examples, made from Refosco, Pignolo and Merlot.