By Dwight Casimere
Pinot Grigio is the most popular wine sold in the United States. It is from the region of Italy called Friuli Venezia Giulia. Venice is the city most commonly associated with the region.
Located in northeastern Italy, the region is best known for its aromatic white wines, characterized by freshness, minerality, and complex flavors. The region’s most famous white grapes include Friulano, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, and Ribolla Gialla. Friuli also produces the red wine Schioppettino, and the white wine grape Verduzzo.
Lately, the region is also becoming known for its red wines. Made primarily from international grape varieties such as Merlot, the red wines are known for their more delicate approach
Very little, if any, oak is used in their production. In fact, red wines are often served slightly chilled and may often accompany fish or poultry dishes, especially if they are grilled.
Surprisingly, grilled meats are the meal of choice in the Friuli. “You might be sitting in a seaside restaurant eating outdoors and surrounded by fresh fish and be eating a meal of grilled meat,” said noted wine expert Jeff Porter, who led the seminar Friuli Venezia Giulia: Wines without borders, at a recent event on coordinated by the Wines of Friuli Venezia Giulia Event Team at Colangelo and Partners, the world leader in marketing and public relations in the wine industry.
I want to share with you my experience of these delicious wines. Among the 38 wine producers were wines of particular note. Among them:
Aganis Peteç, Ribolla Gialla Spumante Brut, DOC Friuli Villa Russiz, Merlot,Ribolla Gialla 2023, DOC Collio, presented by owner and winemaker Kennya Da Cruz. She also presented her I Feudi di Romans, Pinot Grigio 2024, DOC Friuli Isonzo.
Gigante Wine & Welcome in Friuli, Friulano 2024, DOC Friuli Colli Orientali Borgo delle Rose – Agricola Cimolai, Sauvignon 2024, DOC Friuli Grave Valpanera, Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso Superiore 2021
The wines of Friuli Venezia Giulia are available for you to enjoy at a restaurant or wine shop near you. Open a bottle and enjoy a taste of northeastern Italy. For more visit friuliitalianwines.com. Drink Responsibly

