Friuli Colli Orientali

• Friulano: bright fruit flavors, floral aromas, and a crisp acidity; often crafted in stainless steel.
• Sauvignon Blanc: zesty and aromatic, with notes of citrus and green herbs.
• Pinot Grigio: fresh and lively, showcasing stone fruit and floral hints.
• Ribolla Gialla: locally cherished for its citrus and mineral profile.
• Merlot: soft tannins with red berry and plum flavors.
• Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso: dark berry notes and distinct minerality.
• Ramandolo DOCG: sweet, late-harvest Verduzzo with honey and apricot flavors.
• Colli Orientali del Friuli Picolit DOCG: rich passitos with apricot and citrus notes.

Friuli Colli Orientali has a moderate climate influenced by its location near the Julian Alps. The mountains block harsh northern winds, allowing warm summers with significant day-to-night temperature changes. This balance helps grapes develop vibrant acidity and rich flavors.

The region's soil, known as ponca, is made up of marl and sandstone layers rich in fossils. This gives the wines a distinct saline-mineral taste, adding to their complexity. The rolling hills provide natural drainage, and careful management practices ensure concentrated and balanced wines. The combination of sunshine, elevation, and cooling breezes results in clear, mineral-driven wines that reflect the essence of this historic region.

In the heart of Friuli Colli Orientali, a region renowned for its terroir-driven wines, several notable wineries stand out. Here are a few that capture the essence of this historic area:

• Gori Agricola: A modern, family-owned winery in Nimis, known for its hillside-integrated design and expressive wines like Friulano, Ribolla Gialla, and Picolit.
• Cantina Colutta: This family-run estate in Buttrio/Manzano/Rosazzo offers outstanding Ribolla Gialla and Schioppettino wines, with a cozy tasting room and agriturismo experience.
• Cantina Bastianich: Established by the Bastianich family, this winery in Buttrio/Cividale is famed for its 'Vespa' wines and thoughtful food pairings.
• Vigneti Micossi: A family winery in Premariacco with a lively frasca, serving fresh whites and easy-drinking reds.
• Nadalutti Franco: Known for elegant whites, this estate in Manzano/Orsaria uses traditional methods to create balanced wines.

Friuli Colli Orientali is making strides in sustainability, with many producers dedicated to eco-friendly practices both in the vineyard and the cellar. A significant number of estates are implementing gravity-flow systems to minimize energy consumption, cutting the need for pumps. Traditional pruning methods like doppio capovolto help maintain vine balance naturally, while cover crops and grassy paths enhance soil health. Integrated pest management reduces chemical use, further protecting the environment.

Across the region, a growing number of wineries are achieving organic or biodynamic certification, underscoring Friuli’s commitment to sustainable winemaking. These practices not only preserve the region's natural beauty but also contribute to the production of wines that truly reflect the unique terroir of Friuli Colli Orientali, ensuring a resilient and environmentally conscious future for this historic wine region.

In the picturesque Friuli Colli Orientali, wine tourism offers a journey through Italy’s rich viticultural heritage. The Strada del Vino e dei Sapori Colli Orientali e Ramandolo connects charming villages, such as the UNESCO-listed Cividale del Friuli, with nearby vineyard communities. Many wineries along the route welcome visitors for tastings and tours, often set in idyllic agriturismo accommodations.

The region's producers frequently host tastings at the cellar door, showcasing local specialties like Montasio cheese and San Daniele prosciutto. In the Buttrio–Rosazzo area, the Parco della Vite e del Vino offers trails that meander through vineyards, complete with educational stops.

Seasonal events, like harvest festivals, celebrate local wines such as Picolit and Ramandolo. This immersive experience highlights the harmonious blend of tradition and innovation that defines the Friuli Colli Orientali, offering a deeper understanding of its terroir-driven wines.