Isonzo del Friuli and its wines

Isonzo del Friuli is one of the best-suited wine districts of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, in the flat and foothill country crossed by the the river Isonzo, in the province of Gorizia.
Characterised by gravelly, well-drained soils, rich in minerals, and by a a temperate climate with continental and Mediterranean influences, this area gives wines of great freshness, precision and varietal fidelity.

The vineyards extend between Gradisca d'Isonzo, Cormòns, Romans d'Isonzo, Mariano del Friuli and Villesse, with altitudes generally below 100 metres, ideal for producing fragrant whites and fine, lively reds.

What is the Isonzo del Friuli wine district?

The area is governed by the DOC Friuli Isonzo (also known as Isonzo del Friuli DOC), established in 1974.

The wines fall into three main categories:

• Friuli Isonzo DOC Bianco → single-variety wines or blends from Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon, Friulano, Chardonnay, Malvasia Istriana, Riesling, etc.

• Friuli Isonzo DOC Rosso → single-variety wines or blends from Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso, Pinot Nero.

• Friuli Isonzo DOC Spumante and Rosato

The subzone Isonzo del Friuli Rive Alte is particularly renowned for producing high-quality whites.

Characteristics of Isonzo del Friuli Wines

Colour

• Whites: Bright straw yellow, with green highlights in the youngest wines.

• Reds: Clear, lively ruby red.

• Rosés: Pale or cherry pink.

Aromas

• Fruity: Green apple, pear, peach, berries.

• Floral: White flowers, acacia, violet.

• Herbaceous and Mineral: Notes of sage and green pepper in the Sauvignon wines, wet stone.

Palate

• Fresh and Saline: Thanks to the closeness of the sea and the mineral soils.

• Harmonious and Direct: Excellent drinkability.

• Precise and Varietal: Perfect balance between structure and finesse.

Typical Grape Varieties of Isonzo del Friuli

White Grape

• Pinot Grigio: Dry, broad and versatile.

• Sauvignon Blanc: Aromatic and nervy.

• Friulano: Fruity, elegant, with a note of bitter almond.

• Malvasia Istriana, Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Bianco

Black Grape

• Merlot: Fine, soft, fruity.

• Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon: Spicier and more structured.

• Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso: Tannic, fresh, spicy.

• Pinot Nero: Elegant and delicate.

Why choose a wine from Isonzo del Friuli?

The wines ofIsonzo del Friuli are ideal for anyone looking for freshness, elegance and varietal precision:

• Whites perfect with fish, shellfish, delicate first courses, fresh cheeses.

• Reds to pair with Friulian cured meats, white meat and dishes from the Central European tradition.

• Rosés and sparkling wines versatile and food-friendly.