The Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso is one of the most important grape varieties in the Friuli region. Its name derives from the reddish colouring that the vine branch acquires during the ripening phase, which for this variety lasts several weeks longer than for other local grapes. Versatile and abundant with a very thin skin, this grape is usually made into wine as a single variety, but it can also add a touch of personality in blends, giving fresh and fruity reds that are also intense and have long ageing potential. It is an expression of character that perfectly reflects the ancient tradition of the Friuli region.
The Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso is one of the most important grape varieties in the Friuli region. Its name derives from the reddish colouring that the vine branch acquires during the ripening phase, which for this variety lasts several weeks longer than for other local grapes. Versatile and abundant with a very thin skin, this grape is usually made into wine as a single variety, but it can also add a touch of personality in blends, giving fresh and fruity reds that are also intense and have long ageing potential. It is an expression of character that perfectly reflects the ancient tradition of the Friuli region.
The ancient origins of this red grape probably date back to Roman times, when it was known as Pacium, and was appreciated and consumed by the entire population. Naturally, as is often the case with most grapes, it is not certain that it was the same variety praised by the ancient Latins and the evidence, which is still scarce, cannot confirm this with complete certainty. In 1390, in the Annals of Friuli, it is reported that the General of the Dominicans used to drink this red wine, which in the past was known only as Refosco. However, it was only in the early 1800s that it began to be called by its full name, differentiating it from the various Refosco wines. After a series of genetic researches and ampelographic tests, the Peduncolo Rosso variety was considered a separate variety and had nothing to do with its siblings bearing the same name. Therefore, nowadays, this red wine is made only from Peduncolo Rosso grapes. It cannot be associated with any of its relatives but has similar characteristics to Pinot Noir, as Bertoli claimed in 1747: "Refosco is nothing other than the Pinneau of Burgundy". With such an ancient and glorious past, this variety is one of the oldest witnesses of Friuli's long winemaking tradition and, thanks to the skilful hand of Friulian winegrowers, who have turned it into a product of great quality and potential, it is now one of Italy's most precious wine treasures.
Cultivated mainly in Friuli Venezia Giulia in the areas of Isonzo, Grave, Colli Orientali and the Karst, it has also spread to neighbouring regions, more precisely to Veneto, where it is part of the famous Lison Pramaggiore DOC that is shared between the two regions. Its first historical traces date back to the Karst area, where it is still present in purity in the DOC Carso. However, the best and most symbolic expressions are found in the Colli Orientali of Friuli, including Refosco Bastianich, particularly appreciated for its fruity aromas and fresh, satisfying and tactile taste. It is precisely in this area, which is dominated by gentle hills and limestone and marl subsoils known as 'ponka', that the vines have found the perfect environment in which to sink their roots. In this small piece of land, tucked in between the foothills of the Alps and the sea, the vines benefit from the marine breezes and the excellent temperature range between night and day, producing perfectly ripe bunches of grapes of the highest quality. Friuli Venezia Giulia therefore produces not only great white wines, but also other exquisite varieties which, with each sip, reveal an ancient history of success and passion. After all, as Veronelli himself said, "wine, after man, is the greatest storyteller".
To the eye, the wine reveals a deep, dark ruby-coloured coat, with garnet shades in the more developed versions. The bouquet is undoubtedly the distinguishing feature of this type, where small fruits are the main protagonists. Blackberries, strawberries and raspberries are the first to emerge, followed by black cherry, plum and blueberry. The olfactory profile is completed by scents of violets and hints of green pepper, with soft spiced sensations depending on the type of refinement. On the palate it is usually fresh, with a light and pleasant sensation of astringency due to the soft tannins. In the more robust versions, the taste profile is softer and more intense, while maintaining a good thrust of freshness and minerality. These are, generally speaking, the characteristics of Refosco wines. They are best paired with the traditional Friulian cuisine. The younger versions go well with 'frico', a local dish of potatoes and onion, or with a platter of San Daniele ham, Sauris speck, Montasio flakes and Malga cheese. The more intense types should be tried with ''musetto'', which is a sausage similar to cotechino, with boiled meat or the famous Slavic goulash.
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