Colli Orientali del Friuli and their wines

The Colli Orientali del Friuli, in the north-eastern part of Friuli Venezia Giulia, are one of the most prestigious and historic wine areas of Italy. This hilly territory, which stretches between the province of Udine and the Slovenian border, has a unique terroir with soils of Eocene origin known as "ponca", rich in marl and sandstone. These soils, combined with a mild climate influenced by the Julian Alps and the Adriatic Sea, create ideal conditions for producing high-quality wines.

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What is the Colli Orientali del Friuli area?

**The Colli Orientali del Friuli** are a controlled designation of origin (DOC) in the hills east of Udine. This unique area combines tradition, innovation and a wide range of native and international grape varieties, which express themselves at their best thanks to the care of local producers. The wines of the area reflect the authenticity of Friuli Venezia Giulia and are among the most highly regarded in Italy and around the world.

Characteristics of the Wines of the Colli Orientali del Friuli

1. Minerality and Freshness: The white wines are savoury, aromatic and well balanced.
2. Elegance and Structure: The reds are intense, with well-integrated tannins and great ageing potential.
3. Expression of the Land: Every wine is an authentic expression of the unique soil and climate of the area.

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Places of Interest in the Colli Orientali del Friuli

1. Cividale del Friuli

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient village is the cultural heart of the area and offers an atmosphere rich in history and tradition.

2. The Vineyards of Prepotto

An iconic area for the production of Schioppettino, a native grape variety of great elegance.

3. Rosazzo Abbey

A historic monastery surrounded by vineyards, a symbol of the winemaking tradition of the area.

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Characteristics of the Wines of the Colli Orientali del Friuli

Colour

• Whites: Bright straw yellow, with greenish highlights in young wines.
• Reds: Intense ruby red with garnet reflections in the aged wines.

Aromas

• Fruity: Notes of apple, peach and citrus in the whites; cherry, plum and berries in the reds.
• Floral: Hints of white flowers in the whites and violet in the reds.
• Spicy: Hints of black pepper, tobacco and liquorice in the more structured reds.

Palate

• Fresh and Savoury: In the whites, with a pleasant acidity and minerality.
• Structured and Lingering: In the reds, with balanced tannins and a long finish.

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Typical Grape Varieties of the Colli Orientali del Friuli

White Grape Varieties

• Friulano: A symbol of Friuli, with notes of almond and great freshness.
• Ribolla Gialla: Aromatic and lively, often used for sparkling wines too.
• Picolit: A rare, prized variety, used for sweet wines of great elegance.

Black Grape Varieties

• Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso: Intense and spicy, with great personality.
• Schioppettino: Elegant and complex, with notes of black pepper and berries.
• Pignolo: Structured and long-lived, perfect for ageing.

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Why Choose a Wine from the Colli Orientali del Friuli?

A wine from the Colli Orientali del Friuli is a genuine celebration of the terroir and of the Friulian winemaking tradition. Ideal for accompanying fish dishes, white meats, game and aged cheeses, these wines are the perfect balance between innovation and respect for tradition.