Friuli Colli Orientali

The wines belonging to the Protected Designation of Origin "Friuli Colli Orientali" can be produced in white, red and sweet types or with an indication of one of the following grape varieties: Chardonnay, Malvasia, Pinot bianco, Pinot grigio, Ribolla gialla, Riesling, Sauvignon, Friulano, Traminer aromatico, Verduzzo friulano, Cabernet, Cabernet franc, Cabernet sauvignon, Merlot, Pignolo, Pinot nero, Refosco dal peduncolo rosso, Refosco, Schioppettino and Tazzelenghe. There are also possible indications of sub-zones: Cialla, Ribolla Gialla di Rosazzo, Pignolo di Rosazzo, Schioppettino di Prepotto and Refosco di Faedis.

Grapes

Wines with indication of vine variety are produced with a minimum percentage of 85% of their specific grapes. For the remaining part and up to a maximum of 15%, other similar grape varieties suitable for cultivation in the province of Udine may be added. The wines White, Dolce (white) and Red, on the other hand, are made using grapes from different vineyards with berries of the corresponding colour, provided that they are included in the list of those used for production with specific indications. In the case of Dolce, the use of Picolit is allowed.

Physicochemical and Organoleptic properties

The white wines (between 11% vol. and 12% vol.) of Friuli Colli Orientali are structured, balanced and full-bodied wines, all with a pleasant straw yellow hue, with golden or greenish reflections (which are coppered in Pinot Grigio). On the palate they give a pleasant and soft taste, accompanied by clean and intense aromas, ranging from fruity to floral. The tonality of the reds, on the other hand, is ruby and it is associated with a bewitching perfume, fine and tending towards herbaceous and spicy, with an elegant bouquet made up of hints of undergrowth and red fruits. About the taste, they are balanced and full-bodied. The detail of the organoleptic characteristics, including those of the variants with indication of the vine, can be found in the product specification.

Grape production area

The production area is located in the central-eastern part of the province of Udine and covers the territory of 19 municipalities.

Specificity and historical notes

Historical traces of Friulian viticulture can already be found in the writings of the Greek historians Strabo and Erodiano.