Friuli

• Friulano: dry, with green apple, herbs, and almonds; a key player in blends like Rosazzo.
• Ribolla Gialla: high acidity, perfect for both skin-contact/amber wines and crisp whites.
• Malvasia Istriana: aromatic and floral, adding elegance to blends.
• Pinot Bianco: fresh pear and stone fruit flavors, offering a lively palate.
• Sauvignon Blanc: ranges from unoaked and fruit-forward to subtly oaked styles.
• Pinot Grigio: varies from lean, mineral-driven to fuller-bodied "ramato" versions.
• Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso: native red with unique aging potential.
• Merlot: smooth and spicy, especially from Collio and Colli Orientali.

Friuli's landscape is diverse, influenced by the towering Carnic and Julian Alps and the vast Adriatic Sea. In the north, the pre-alpine hills like Collio and Colli Orientali have marl and sandstone soils, called "ponca," offering great drainage. Further south, the land flattens into the alluvial plains of Grave, where glacial gravels ensure warmth and even ripening. Near the coast, sandy soils add a subtle saltiness, while the Karst plateau's red earth creates unique, mineral-rich wines.

The climate mixes sea and mountain influences, with breezes cooling the coast and alpine air bringing temperature changes in the hills. This results in wines with high acidity and rich aromas. The Bora wind helps keep vines healthy, and while the hills get more rain, the plains enjoy drier, breezy conditions, leading to Friuli's elegant and precise wines.

Friuli is a treasure trove of remarkable wineries, where tradition meets innovation. The region, known for its vibrant white wines, is home to an array of producers dedicated to showcasing the unique terroir of this northeastern Italian landscape.

• Venica & Venica: Celebrated for their expressive white wines, particularly in the Collio hills.
• Schiopetto: Pioneers of modern winemaking, known for their precise, aromatic whites.
• Gravner: A leader in skin-contact wines, offering complex, age-worthy bottles.
• Radikon: Renowned for their bold, natural wines, emphasizing the unique character of Friuli's terroir.
• Livio Felluga: A longstanding family estate recognized for intricate blends and varietal purity.

These wineries, among others, exemplify Friuli's commitment to quality and innovation, crafting wines that truly reflect the region's diverse landscapes and climates.

In Friuli, sustainability is taking center stage as winemakers embrace eco-friendly practices to preserve their unique landscape. Many are reducing synthetic inputs and transitioning to organic or biodynamic methods, focusing on soil health and resource efficiency. In the vineyards, cover crops and green manures are common, while integrated pest management helps maintain ecological balance.

In the winery, energy-efficient techniques like gravity flow systems and underground temperature control are popular, alongside water recycling and renewable energy use. Wineries are also adopting lighter, eco-friendly packaging to minimize their carbon footprint. This commitment to sustainability is complemented by the revival of local grape varieties, such as Friulano and Ribolla Gialla, which thrive in the region's diverse climate, reducing the need for additional resources. Friuli's efforts ensure its wines remain vibrant and environmentally conscious.

Friuli, with its rich winemaking tradition, offers a captivating wine tourism experience. The region's renowned wine trails, such as those in Collio and Colli Orientali, connect picturesque vineyards with medieval towns and historic sites like Castello di Spessa. Visitors can explore these routes by car or bike, enjoying breathtaking views and scheduled wine tastings.

Friuli's culinary delights, including Montasio cheese and prosciutto di San Daniele, complement the wine experience. Cities like Udine and Trieste serve as ideal bases for exploring these trails, offering cultural richness and local festivities.

Cross-border wine routes into Slovenia enhance the adventure with diverse cultural insights.

Many local vineyards provide agriturismo stays, offering a deeper immersion into Friuli's wine culture. This multifaceted approach allows visitors to experience the region's dedication to quality and tradition, making Friuli a standout destination for wine enthusiasts.