Friuli Venezia Giulia is one of Italy's most prestigious wine regions, renowned for its high-quality white wines and its food and wine traditions. With a territory that ranges from the Alps to the Adriatic coast, the region offers a variety of microclimates that favor the cultivation of native and international grape varieties. Among the most famous wine areas are Collio, Colli Orientali del Friuli and Grave del Friuli, each with unique characteristics.

What types of wines are produced in Friuli Venezia Giulia?

Friuli Venezia Giulia is particularly known for its white wines of great elegance and freshness. Among the most famous we find:

• Friulano (formerly Tocai), aromatic and savoury.
• Ribolla Gialla , fresh and mineral, also perfect as a sparkling wine.
• Sauvignon Blanc , with a herbaceous and citrus character.
• Pinot Grigio , among the most appreciated internationally.
• Malvasia Istriana , fragrant and savoury.

Red wines also play an important role, with varieties such as:

• Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso , tannic and spicy.
• Schioppettino , with notes of black pepper and berries.
• Fussy , structured and powerful.
• Merlot and Cabernet Franc , well adapted to the territory.

What are the best seasons to visit wineries in Friuli Venezia Giulia?

Spring and autumn are the best times to visit the region's wineries. In spring, the vineyards are in full bloom and the climate is ideal for walking in the hills. Autumn, on the other hand, coincides with the grape harvest and unmissable food and wine events.

What are the main geographical characteristics of Friuli Venezia Giulia?

The region offers a great variety of landscapes, from the Alpine reliefs to the Friulian plain to the Adriatic coast. The most prestigious wine-growing areas are found in the hills of Collio and Colli Orientali, characterized by marly and arenaceous soils that favor the production of wines of great complexity. In the plain, the Grave del Friuli is famous for its stony soils that give the wines freshness and structure.

What are the most renowned wine areas in the region?

• Collio DOC : famous for its refined and long-lived white wines.
• Colli Orientali del Friuli DOC : home of Friulano, Ribolla Gialla and native reds.
• Grave del Friuli DOC : perfect for Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay and Merlot.
• Carso DOC : characterised by red soils and Istrian Malvasia.
• Isonzo DOC : produces mineral and structured wines.

What are the cultivation techniques used in Friuli Venezia Giulia?

Cultivation techniques vary depending on the area and the vine. The most common training system is Guyot, which guarantees excellent exposure of the bunches and uniform ripening. In the hilly areas, the alberello and the Friulian pergola are also used. Manual harvesting is common in the most prized areas to carefully select the best grapes.

What are the best things to see in Friuli Venezia Giulia?

In addition to the wineries, the region offers numerous attractions:

• Cividale del Friuli , with its Devil's Bridge and Lombard history.
• Aquileia , a UNESCO site with Roman remains and early Christian mosaics.
• Trieste , a Central European city with Miramare Castle and the Caffè San Marco.
• San Daniele del Friuli , famous for its raw ham.
• Gorizia , with its Castle and border culture.

What are the typical local dishes that pair best with Friulian wines?

Friulian cuisine offers a variety of dishes that pair perfectly with local wines:

• Frico (melted cheese with potatoes) with a fresh Friulano.
• San Daniele ham with Ribolla Gialla or Malvasia.
• Cjarsons (sweet-savory ravioli) with a Sauvignon Blanc.
• Trieste goulash with a Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso.
• Boreto alla Graisana (fish soup) with a Pinot Grigio.

Are there any wine-related events or festivals held annually in Friuli Venezia Giulia?

Yes, the region hosts numerous events dedicated to wine and gastronomy:

• Cantine Aperte , a national event to visit cellars and taste wines.
• Friuli DOC in Udine, with tastings and typical products.
• Ein Prosit in Tarvisio, celebrating the finest wines and international cuisine.
• Ribolla Gialla Wine Festival , dedicated to this native grape variety.
• Malvasia in Porto in Muggia, a review of Istrian Malvasia.

What are the main export markets for Friuli Venezia Giulia wines?

Friulian wines are exported all over the world, with key markets in Germany, the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan and Switzerland. Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc are among the most sought after, while the indigenous reds are increasingly gaining popularity.

What are the unique wine tourism experiences offered in Friuli Venezia Giulia?

The region offers numerous experiences for wine lovers:

• Guided tours of the cellars with tasting.
• Wine trekking among the vineyards of Collio and Colli Orientali.
• Food and wine pairing courses with local chefs.
• Harvest experiences in the cellar.
• Historical and food and wine tours in Cividale, Trieste and Aquileia.

Friuli Venezia Giulia is an unmissable destination for those who want to discover high-quality wines and an authentic and fascinating food and wine culture.

Which wineries to visit in Friuli Venezia Giulia ?

Here are the best wineries to visit in Friuli Venezia Giulia :

Here are the best wine tastings to book in Friuli Venezia Giulia :

Here are the wine areas not to be missed: