What kind of wine is Venezia Giulia Rosso IGT 'Vespa Rosso' 2018 - Bastianich

The Venezia Giulia Rosso IGT 'Vespa Rosso' 2018 - Bastianich is the most iconic red wine from the winery founded by Joe Bastianich, conceived to represent the Friulian soul in a modern key. It combines the strength of international grape varieties Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc with the typicality of Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso, an indigenous grape from the region. The result is a full-bodied wine, harmonious and rich in personality, capable of naturally combining structure and elegance.

Vintage Details

The 2018 vintage in Friuli Venezia Giulia was characterized by a balanced climate, with a mild spring and warm but not extreme summers. This allowed for homogeneous grape ripening and excellent aromatic concentration. The harvest, conducted by hand between late September and early October, yielded intact grapes rich in sugars, an ideal base for a wine of great balance and longevity.

Winemaking and Aging

Each variety of Vespa Rosso is processed separately to respect its own identity. Fermentations take place in 500-liter open tonneaux, a solution that allows optimal contact between wine and oxygen. After fermentation, the wines are blended and transferred to French oak barriques for at least 18 months of aging. This period in wood gives complexity and roundness, while subsequent months in the bottle refine its taste-olfactory balance.

Tasting Notes

The Venezia Giulia Rosso IGT 'Vespa Rosso' 2018 - Bastianich stands out for its intense and refined sensory profile, capable of captivating both enthusiasts and novices.

Color

Deep ruby red with bright garnet reflections, a sign of maturity and concentration.

Nose

On the nose, it releases a broad and enveloping bouquet: notes of ripe red fruits such as cherry and blackberry, followed by spicy aromas of black pepper, vanilla, and a balsamic touch. Delicate toasted and cocoa hints emerge on the finish, a result of the wood aging.

Taste

On the palate, it is structured and velvety. The tannins – substances naturally present in grape skins and seeds – are soft and well-integrated. The finish is long, with a fruity and spicy return that invites another sip. A balanced wine, with strong character and a clear vocation for aging.

Food Pairings for Venezia Giulia Rosso IGT 'Vespa Rosso' 2018 - Bastianich

Perfect for accompanying savory and rich dishes, Vespa Rosso is at its best with:

• grilled or braised red meats
• game and spiced roasts
• aged cheeses
• typical Friulian dishes such as frico or wild boar stew

A meditation red wine that can also be enjoyed on its own, served at the appropriate temperature.

Storage and Aging

For those wondering how to store Venezia Giulia Rosso IGT 'Vespa Rosso' 2018 - Bastianich wine, the answer is simple: in a cool, dark place with a constant temperature between 12 and 16°C. It is best if the bottle is stored horizontally to keep the cork moist and ensure an airtight seal. Thanks to its structure and wood aging, Vespa Rosso has excellent evolution potential: it can age in the bottle for over 10 years, developing increasingly complex and enveloping aromas.