Friuli-Venezia Giulia
Principal Varietals: (W) Pinot Grigio, (W) Friulano Sauvignon Vert. Formerly Tocai Friulano
This small region in northeastern Italy has many cultural influences, bordering Austria, Slovenia, the Adriatic Sea and the Veneto region of Italy. Friuli-Venezia Giulia is often known as the region that sets the standard for Italian white wine. The Alps meet the sea here, creating an excellent hilly growing region for whites. Friuli Grave is the best known DOC, producing many of the Pinot Grigio that make their way to the United States. In local dialect, ’grave’ translates to a soil combined of sand and gravel. This interesting soil combination covers much of the lowland area, giving a clean mineral touch to the wines. Lesser known, but arguably more prestigious, is the Colli Orientali del Friuli DOC zone. Its gentle hills are perfect for growing Friulano (formerly known as Tocai Friulano). This beautiful little region boasts the lovely seaport town of Trieste as its capital and exhibits much influence from its Austrian and Slovenian neighbors.
