What kind of wine is Colli Orientali del Friuli Refosco DOC “Vigne Orsone” 2023 - Bastianich

The Colli Orientali del Friuli Refosco DOC “Vigne Orsone” 2023 - Bastianich is a Friulian red wine with a strong and authentic identity, a symbol of the winemaking tradition of the Cividale del Friuli area. Produced from Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso grapes, an indigenous variety among the most representative of the region, this wine combines the typical soul of the territory with the elegant and modern style of the Bastianich winery. The result is a medium-bodied red, lively, fresh, and pleasantly fruity, capable of best expressing the character of Friuli and the production philosophy of the Bastianich family.

Vintage details

The 2023 vintage was characterized by balanced climatic conditions, with mild temperatures and a good temperature range between day and night, a factor that favored the accumulation of aromas and the ideal ripening of the grapes. The Refosco grapes were harvested at perfect ripeness, maintaining an excellent balance between sugars and acidity. The result is a wine that combines freshness and concentration, perfectly expressive of the "Vigne Orsone" style.

Vinification and aging

The vinification of the Colli Orientali del Friuli Refosco DOC “Vigne Orsone” 2023 - Bastianich is carried out to enhance the naturalness and purity of the fruit. Approximately 80% of the wine is fermented in large stainless steel tanks to preserve aromatic fragrance and freshness, while the remaining 20% ages in small used oak barrels, which help to smooth the tannins and round out the structure. The final blending, accompanied by frequent bâtonnage (stirring of the fine lees to increase softness and complexity), confers depth and gustatory harmony.

Tasting notes

Color

It presents an intense ruby red color with violet reflections, typical of the Refosco grape, clear and brilliant in the glass.

Nose

On the nose, it expresses aromas of ripe red fruits – cherry, blackberry, and plum – accompanied by light notes of black pepper and herbaceous nuances. With aeration, delicate spicy and undergrowth sensations emerge, a sign of a young but already complex wine.

Taste

On the palate, it is fresh, lively, and well-balanced. The sip offers good structure, present but fine tannins, and a pleasant acidity that gives impetus. The finish is persistent, with a fruity and slightly spicy return. It is a wine that captivates with its balance between strength and drinkability, ideal for those seeking authenticity and immediacy.

What dishes to pair with Colli Orientali del Friuli Refosco DOC “Vigne Orsone” 2023 - Bastianich

This Refosco is an excellent table companion, versatile and perfect with many traditional Italian dishes. It pairs particularly well with:

• Grilled red meats and beef tagliata
• Light game dishes or roasted pork
• Semi-aged cheeses and rustic cold cuts
• Pasta with ragù or classic lasagna

Its freshness also makes it pleasant with slightly spicy dishes or with strong flavors from regional cuisine.

Storage and aging – how to store Colli Orientali del Friuli Refosco DOC “Vigne Orsone” 2023 - Bastianich wine

To best appreciate the characteristics of this wine, it is advisable to store it in a cool, dark place with constant humidity, at an ideal temperature of about 12-14°C. The bottle should be kept horizontally to keep the cork moist and preserve the integrity of the wine. The Colli Orientali del Friuli Refosco DOC “Vigne Orsone” 2023 - Bastianich is perfect to drink young to capture its vivacity and freshness, but it can also evolve in the bottle for 3-5 years, developing more complex aromas and greater roundness.