DRI SCHIOPPETTINO FRIULI 2018

The Colli Orientali del Friuli sits in the far northeast of Italy, where the Alps and Adriatic converge to create a continental-maritime climate with sharp diurnal shifts — conditions that keep Schioppettino's natural acidity intact and its peppery character precise. Dri, one of the appellation's well-regarded estates, produced this 2018 from 100% Schioppettino, a variety nearly extinct before local growers fought to preserve it. The wine opens with violet, cracked black pepper, and cocoa, then delivers silky tannins, fresh forest fruit, and a cool, persistent finish with spiced brown notes.