Schioppettino (2015) - Bressan

In the heart of the Colli Orientali del Friuli, the Bressan winery guards a secret going back centuries: Schioppettino. This indigenous grape variety, also known as Ribolla Nera, came close to disappearing in the 19th century because of phylloxera, but thanks to the dedication of passionate growers such as the Bressan family it was brought back to life. The story goes that the name "Schioppettino" comes from the "crackling" sound the wine made during fermentation. In 1978 Schioppettino was officially recognised as a variety, marking a new chapter for this fascinating wine and for the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region.

The appellation: Friuli Colli Orientali DOC​

The Friuli Colli Orientali DOC is one of the most prestigious appellations of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, celebrated for the production of elegant, mineral white wines, but also for long-lived, structured reds. Established in 1970, the DOC covers one of the most suited areas of the region: the eastern hills of the province of Udine, close to the border with Slovenia. This zone stands out for its variety of microclimates and its marl-sandstone soils (the so-called ponca or flysch), ideal for quality viticulture. The wines of the Colli Orientali combine aromatic finesse, freshness and depth, which makes them perfect both for drinking straight away and for ageing.

What to eat with Schioppettino

Who makes it: Bressan

Bressan is a winery with roots in a centuries-old tradition, dedicated to producing high-quality wines that tell the story and culture of Friuli. Founded by passionate master winemakers, Bressan stands out for its artisan approach and its respect for old winemaking practices, rejecting the modern technologies that flatten the authenticity of wine. The Bressan philosophy rests on: Tradition and innovation, a combination that brings out the Friulian terroir Sustainability, an ongoing commitment to protecting the environment Wines with character, an authentic expression of the area A passion for hospitality, an invitation to share special moments

The vine of Schioppettino

Schioppettino

Schioppettino is a black grape variety native to Friuli Venezia Giulia, in particular the Colli Orientali del Friuli area. This variety, also known as Pignolo Nero, has an ancient and fascinating history going back centuries, and it has recently drawn attention for its quality and distinctiveness. It is grown only in specific areas, where the climate and the soil help bring out its distinctive character.

Schioppettino: the area of the Colli Orientali del Friuli

Climate: Mediterranean

Altitude: Low to mid altitude (200–500 m above sea level)

Soil: Limestone / chalk

Geographical setting: Hilly

Profile of Schioppettino

Primary aromas: Ripe red fruit, Spices

Secondary aromas: leather, Vanilla

Tertiary aromas: Coffee, Tobacco

Tasting notes: A full-bodied red wine with notes of ripe red fruit and spice, typical of the Schioppettino grape variety.