What kind of wine is Friuli Colli Orientali Schioppettino DOP 'Il Soccombente' 2020 - I Clivi

The Friuli Colli Orientali Schioppettino DOP 'Il Soccombente' 2020 - I Clivi is an elegant red wine with great personality, produced exclusively from Schioppettino grapes, an indigenous Friulian grape variety known for its delicate spiciness and natural freshness. The vines, which are over fifty years old, are rooted in the hilly soils of the Colli Orientali del Friuli, where climate and soils produce wines of rare depth. This wine stands out for its harmonious body, never excessive, and for its ability to combine aromatic intensity with drinkability. It is the most authentic representation of I Clivi's artisanal approach, a winery symbolizing the balance between tradition and respect for the territory.

Vintage details

The 2020 vintage was characterized by regular climatic conditions, with a warm summer balanced by cool nights that preserved acidity and promoted a slow and complete maturation of the grapes. The result is a Schioppettino with a fine texture and a clear aromatic profile, in which black pepper and small red fruits blend harmoniously.

Winemaking and aging

Winemaking takes place in a traditional way, with spontaneous fermentation thanks to indigenous yeasts, without the addition of external elements. Maceration on the skins, carried out delicately, allows for the extraction of balanced color and tannins, while maintaining varietal freshness. The wine ages for about 12 months in wooden barrels, half new and half second-passage: a choice that gives the wine soft spicy notes without covering the fruit. The quantities produced are deliberately limited, ensuring maximum quality.

Tasting notes

Color Visually, the Friuli Colli Orientali Schioppettino DOP 'Il Soccombente' 2020 - I Clivi presents a brilliant ruby red color, with purplish reflections that speak of its youth and vitality. Nose On the nose, it is fine and complex: aromas of small wild berries, black pepper, and light floral notes of violet emerge, alongside spicy hints and a touch of aromatic herbs reminiscent of the Friulian territory. Palate The sip is dynamic, fresh, and balanced. The tannins are dense yet silky, well integrated into the wine's structure. The finish is long and persistent, with a return of sweet spices and ripe red fruit, inviting another taste.

Which dishes to pair with Friuli Colli Orientali Schioppettino DOP 'Il Soccombente' 2020 - I Clivi

This Schioppettino is an extremely versatile wine at the table. It pairs perfectly with dishes of strong yet balanced flavor, thanks to its lively freshness and spicy notes. Ideal with:

• Cured meats and aged cheeses, such as Montasio or San Daniele;
• Grilled or braised red meats;
• Light game dishes such as guinea fowl or rabbit;
• Friulian regional recipes, such as frico or pumpkin gnocchi.

It is also well suited for convivial moments, thanks to its elegant yet accessible profile.

Storage and aging: how to store Friuli Colli Orientali Schioppettino DOP 'Il Soccombente' 2020 - I Clivi

To maintain the qualities of this wine, it is important 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 horizontally, to keep the cork moist. Thanks to its balanced structure and the elegance of the grape variety, the Friuli Colli Orientali Schioppettino DOP 'Il Soccombente' 2020 - I Clivi has an excellent aging potential: it can evolve for 6-8 years, developing more complex aromatic nuances and a pleasant softness on the palate. It is a perfect wine for those who wish to discover the most authentic and refined soul of Friuli.