Friuli

Friuli-Venezia Giulia is a Denominazione di origine controllata (DOC, or controlled designation of origin) wine region in northeastern Italy. Friuli-Venezia Giulia is separated from Austria by the Alps and is bordered by Slovenia to the east, by the Veneto wine region to the west and the Adriatic Sea to the south. The northern extremes are very mountainous, with the land flattening out as it approaches the sea. Renowned for producing some of Italy's finest white wines, Friuli-Venezia Giulia's white varieties such as Chardonnay, Pinot Bianco and Pinot Grigio grow alongside local grapes such as Tocai Fruiliano, Picolit, Ribolla Gialla and Verduzzo. Red wines are produced from Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Schiopettino and Refosco.

• Key Varieties: Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Bianco, Pinot Grigio, Picolit, Refosco, Ribolla Gialla, Schiopettino, Tocai Fruiliano, and Verduzzo
• Climate: Continental, with cooler winters
• Soil: Marl and sandstone
• Did You Know: Along the region's eastern border with Slovenia, some producers own vineyards that straddle both countries.