What kind of wine is Friuli Colli Orientali Schioppettino DOC 2018 - Le Vigne di Zamò

Friuli Colli Orientali Schioppettino DOC 2018 - Le Vigne di Zamò represents one of the most authentic expressions of the Friulian territory. Made from 100% Schioppettino grapes, an indigenous varietal rediscovered and now a symbol of the Colli Orientali del Friuli area, this red wine stands out for its elegant structure, spicy aromas, and extraordinary aging potential. It is a medium-full-bodied wine, capable of combining freshness and complexity, ideal for those who wish to discover the most refined side of Friulian reds.

Vintage details

The 2018 vintage in Colli Orientali del Friuli was balanced, with a mild climate evenly distributed between sun and rain. The Schioppettino grapes reached full ripeness, allowing for a perfect balance between aromas and structure. Manual harvesting, carried out in the first days of October, ensured a careful selection of the best bunches, essential for maintaining high wine quality.

Vinification and aging

After destemming and crushing, fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, with a maceration on the skins of about two weeks to extract color and tannins in a balanced way. Subsequently, the wine ages for about 18 months in barriques – small oak barrels used to round out the taste and impart spicy nuances – before further aging in the bottle. The result is a harmonious wine, where the power of the grape meets the finesse of aging.

Tasting notes

Friuli Colli Orientali Schioppettino DOC 2018 - Le Vigne di Zamò is a wine rich in personality and nuances, captivating from the first glance and surprising on tasting.

Color

In the glass, it presents an intense ruby red with violet reflections, a sign of the grape's youth and vitality.

Nose

On the nose, it expresses a complex and profound bouquet: spices like black pepper and cinnamon give way to notes of ripe red fruits – blackberry, plum, cherry – and light floral and balsamic nuances. The aroma is elegant, never overpowering, and perfectly reflects the identity of the Friulian territory.

Palate

On the palate, it reveals a balanced and enveloping sip. The tannins, the natural substances that give a sense of astringency, are present but well integrated, providing structure without being heavy. The freshness accompanies the tasting to a long, persistent, and slightly spicy finish, inviting another glass.

What dishes to pair with Friuli Colli Orientali Schioppettino DOC 2018 - Le Vigne di Zamò

This Schioppettino delightfully accompanies traditional Friulian and Italian dishes. Perfect with:

• grilled or roasted red meats;
• game and spicy roasts;
• aged cheeses with a strong flavor;
• dishes based on mushrooms or truffles, which enhance its spicy component.

Its versatility also makes it ideal for a special dinner or a classy gift for authentic wine enthusiasts.

Storage and aging – how to store Friuli Colli Orientali Schioppettino DOC 2018 - Le Vigne di Zamò wine

To preserve the qualities of this wine, it is advisable to store it in a cool, dark place, with a constant temperature between 12 and 16 °C and humidity around 70%. The bottle should be kept horizontal to keep the cork moist and ensure a perfect seal over time.

Thanks to its structure and the perfect balance between acidity and tannin, Friuli Colli Orientali Schioppettino DOC 2018 - Le Vigne di Zamò can evolve pleasantly in the bottle for over 8-10 years, developing even more complex and refined aromas over time. A wine to drink today, but also to carefully store to discover all its finesse in the years to come.