Tucked away in Italy's northeastern corner, where the Alps meet the Adriatic, lies Friuli-Venezia Giulia - a region whose diverse terroir produces some of Italy's most distinctive wines. Today, we're exploring four wines that showcase the unique character of this remarkable wine region.
The Terroir of Friuli-Venezia Giulia: Friuli's terroir is a complex tapestry of geological and climatic influences. The region benefits from a unique microclimate, with the Alps shielding it from cold northern winds and the Adriatic Sea moderating temperatures. But what truly sets Friuli apart is its soil composition. In many areas, particularly in Collio and Colli Orientali, you'll find ponca - a distinctive mix of marl and sandstone layers formed millions of years ago when this area was under the sea. This mineral-rich soil, combined with significant day-night temperature variations, contributes to the wines' characteristic minerality and vibrant acidity. From the gravelly plains of Isonzo to the limestone-rich Carso plateau, each subregion offers a unique geological profile that translates directly into the glass.
Giovanni Dri's Sauvignon
- Tasting Notes: Intense bright yellow color. Rich varietal aromas with hints of verbena, fern, and elderberry. Complex and persistent palate with sapidity, freshness, and full body.
- Terroir Impact: Grown at 300-350m elevation on Mount Bernadia's slopes, the marl soils impart a distinctive mineral character.
- Pairing: Perfect with fish, shellfish, delicate courses, and rich salads.
Pecorari's Friulano
- Tasting Notes: Brilliant golden hue. Aromas of ripe yellow apple, white peach, and honeysuckle. Full-bodied and textured palate with flavors of creamy lemon curd, baked quince, and almond.
- Terroir Impact: Grown on gravelly limestone uplands in San Lorenzo Isontino, the wine showcases the minerality typical of Friuli's diverse soils.
- Pairing: Excellent with fresh creamy cheeses, risottos, and oven-baked fish dishes.
Giovanni Dri's Refosco
- Tasting Notes: Intense ruby red with purple reflections. Strong aroma with hints of rose petal. Round, full taste with a slight tannic edge.
- Terroir Impact: The Ramandolo area's unique microclimate and marl soils contribute to the wine's intensity and complexity.
- Pairing: Ideal with rustic soups, flavorful risottos, and red meats.
Giovanni Dri's Schioppettino
- Tasting Notes: Medium ruby with purple reflections. Nose full of violets, cracked peppercorns, and cocoa. Silky yet vibrant palate with fresh forest fruits and peppery spices.
- Terroir Impact: The cool climate of Ramandolo's hills helps preserve the grape's natural spiciness and freshness.
- Pairing: Versatile - try with risotti, wildfowl ragù, prosciutto, or even grilled oily fish.
These four wines offer a journey through Friuli-Venezia Giulia's diverse terroir. From the slopes of Mount Bernadia to the gravelly plains of Isonzo, each wine tells the story of its unique origin. Whether you're a fan of aromatic whites or distinctive reds, Friuli has something to offer every palate.
Visit our store to explore these remarkable Friulian wines and taste the terroir for yourself! |
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