Collio DOC

The Collio DOC is one of Italy's most prestigious appellations, in the heart of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, along the border with Slovenia. Known above all for its extraordinary white wines, the Collio DOC represents the highest quality level in Italian wine production, combining tradition, innovation and a strong bond with the land.The wines of the Collio DOC are famous for their elegance, freshness e aromatic complexity, characteristics that reflect the unique terroir and the skill of the local producers.

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Origin and History of the Collio DOC

The appellation Collio DOC was officially recognised in 1968, and is one of the first Italian Denominazioni di Origine Controllata. The name "Collio" comes from the Friulian word "colle", referring to the gentle hills that characterise this area.The winemaking tradition of the area dates back to Roman times, and over the centuries the Collio has become a byword for excellence, thanks to the combination of a unique terroir and cutting-edge winemaking practices.

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Production Area

The Collio DOC extends across the province of Gorizia, including municipalities such as Cormòns, Capriva del Friuli, San Floriano del Collio, Farra d’Isonzo and other areas close to the Slovenian border.

Terroir and Soils

• Ponca: The soil typical of the area, made up of layered marl and sandstone, rich in minerals that give the wines freshness and savouriness.
• Hills facing south-east: They allow the grapes to ripen perfectly.
• Altitudes: Among the 100 and 300 metres above sea level.

Climate

• Mediterranean with alpine influences: Hot summers and mild winters, with a good day-night temperature swing.
• Cool winds: Coming from the Julian Alps and the nearby Adriatic Sea, they keep the grapes healthy.

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Grape Varieties and Composition of the Wines

The Collio DOC makes the most of both native and international grape varieties, ensuring a great stylistic range.

White Grape Varieties

• Friulano: Fresh, savoury, with a typical note of bitter almond.
• Ribolla Gialla: Elegant, mineral, also ideal for sparkling winemaking.
• Malvasia Istriana: Aromatic, with notes of citrus and flowers.
• Sauvignon Blanc: Intense and fresh, with hints of herbs and tropical fruit.
• Chardonnay: Structured and versatile, often aged in wood.
• Pinot Grigio: Complex, with aromas of ripe fruit and white flowers.

Black Grape Varieties

• Merlot: Soft and fruity, with notes of sweet spices.
• Cabernet Sauvignon: Structured and tannic, with good ageing potential.
• Cabernet Franc: Fresh, with herbaceous notes.
• Pinot Nero: Elegant and refined.

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Collio DOC Wine Styles

1. Dry White Wines

• Fresh and mineral: Perfect for expressing the unique terroir of the Collio.
• Structured and long-lived: Often aged in wood, ideal for ageing.

2. Red Wines

• Soft and fruity: Ready to drink, with fresh, harmonious notes.
• Structured and complex: With wood ageing to express depth.

3. Orange Wines

• White wines macerated on the skins, often made from Ribolla Gialla, with intense, complex aromas.

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Winemaking Techniques

• Temperature-controlled fermentation: To preserve freshness and primary aromas.
• Pre-fermentation maceration: Used to bring out the aromas in whites.
• Ageing in stainless steel or wood: For fresh or more complex wines.
• Sparkling winemaking: Traditional method or Charmat, especially for Ribolla Gialla.

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Sensory Characteristics of Collio DOC Wines

White Wines

• Colour: Bright straw yellow, with greenish or golden highlights.
• Aromas: Fresh fruit, citrus, white flowers, mineral notes.
• Palate: Fresh, savoury, with long persistence.

Red Wines

• Colour: Deep ruby red, with garnet highlights in the aged wines.
• Aromas: Red fruits, sweet spices, light herbaceous notes.
• Palate: Soft, balanced, with elegant tannins.

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Food Pairings

Collio DOC wines are extremely versatile and go perfectly with the dishes of Friulian and international cuisine.

White Wines

• Grilled fish and seafood carpaccio.
• Vegetable-based first courses and herb risottos.
• Fresh cheeses and savoury tarts.

Red Wines

• Roast white meat.
• Friulian cured meats and aged cheeses.
• Pasta with rich sauces or game.

Orange Wines

• Spiced dishes and ethnic cooking.
• Blue and aged cheeses.
• Grilled vegetables and hearty soups.

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Why Choose a Collio DOC Wine?

Go for a wine from the Collio DOC means choosing a product of superior quality, in which tradition, terroir and winemaking skill come together to create unique sensory experiences. These wines are the height of elegance and complexity, ideal for the most special moments.