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What is Friularo di Bagnoli DOCG?
Friularo di Bagnoli DOCG is a robust red wine appellation located in Veneto’s Padua province, officially recognized with Italy’s highest classification in 2011. Made primarily from Raboso Piave, this structured, age-worthy red is celebrated for its deep color, firm tannins, and vibrant acidity. The DOCG encompasses multiple wine styles—Rosso, Riserva, and Passito—making it one of the most versatile yet under-discovered Venetian red wines.
History & Origins
Winegrowing in the Bagnoli di Sopra area stretches back over a millennium, with monastic communities cultivating vineyards as early as the 10th century. Raboso, the grape at the heart of Friularo, was once called “Friularo” (likely derived from “frigolare” meaning “to shiver,” since grapes were traditionally harvested late, even after the first frosts). This late harvest tradition gives the wines remarkable depth and structure.
Where It’s Made: Geography & Terroir
The Friularo di Bagnoli DOCG zone is located in the southern Padua province, within the fertile plains near the Adige and Bacchiglione rivers. The soils are alluvial and clay-rich, offering good water retention—perfect for Raboso’s slow ripening. The flat geography may look unassuming, but its microclimate allows for late harvests that yield concentrated, complex wines.
Wine Tourism Note: Bagnoli di Sopra is a stop worth adding to any Veneto wine tour, with its Abbey of Praglia nearby and Venetian villas dotting the countryside.
The Grape: Raboso Piave
- Local name: Friularo
- Style: Bold, tannic, high-acid red grape
- Character: Known for longevity, black fruit flavors, spice, and mouthwatering freshness
- Comparison: Sometimes called “the Amarone of the plains,” though drier and more structured
Winemaking & DOCG Regulations
Friularo di Bagnoli DOCG includes several key styles:
| Style | Aging Requirement | ABV | Flavor Profile | Best Pairings |
| Rosso | 12 months | 11.5% | Dark fruit, spice, rustic tannins | Game, roasts, hearty pasta |
| Riserva | 24 months | 12.5% | More refined, complex, with earthy depth | Aged cheeses, braised meats |
| Passito | 24+ months | 15.5% | Sweet, concentrated, notes of dried fruit & cocoa | Dark chocolate, blue cheeses |
DOCG Rules:
- Minimum 90% Raboso Piave (Friularo)
- Strict aging requirements
- Controlled yields to ensure concentration
Key Facts at a Glance
- Classification: DOCG (since 2011)
- Primary Grape: Raboso Piave (Friularo)
- Styles: Rosso, Riserva, Passito
- Harvest: Traditionally very late (post-frost)
- Aging Potential: 10–20+ years for Riserva
- Pronunciation: Free-oo-LAH-roh
Tasting Notes
- Rosso: Ruby red, bracing acidity, black cherry, spice, and earthy undertones
- Riserva: Garnet hues, dried herbs, licorice, tobacco, elegant tannins
- Passito: Intense garnet, dried figs, cocoa, sweet spices, velvety finish
Serving & Pairing
- Serving Temperature: 16–18°C for Rosso & Riserva; 14–16°C for Passito
- Glassware: Large balloon glass to soften tannins
- Food Pairings:
- Risotto with radicchio di Treviso
- Venetian-style duck (Anatra in umido)
- Aged Monte Veronese cheese
- Passito with tiramisù or dark chocolate
- Risotto with radicchio di Treviso
Where to Buy & Pricing
Friularo di Bagnoli remains a niche wine, but you can find bottles through Italian wine specialists and online shops. Expect:
- Rosso: €15–25
- Riserva: €25–40
- Passito: €35–60
🔗 Producers to Look For:
- Cantina Colli Euganei
- Casa Vinicola Salvan
- Abbazia di Praglia
FAQ on Friularo di Bagnoli DOCG
Q: Is Friularo the same as Raboso?
A: Yes, Friularo is the local name for Raboso Piave, the grape behind this DOCG.
Q: How long can Friularo wines age?
A: Riserva can easily develop for 15–20 years, while Passito offers exceptional longevity.
Q: How does it compare to Amarone?
A: While Amarone is plush and fruit-driven, Friularo is drier, more tannic, and prized for structure.
Fun Facts & Cultural Notes
- The name Friularo ties to the region’s tradition of harvesting late, after frost.
- The wines were historically stored in Venetian cellars and shipped via canals to noble families.
- Each October, the “Festa del Vino Friularo” celebrates this DOCG in Bagnoli di Sopra with tastings, food pairings, and cultural events.
CTA for Audience Engagement
🍷 Discover More Italian Gems: Sign up for our newsletter to explore Italy’s hidden DOCG treasures, from Friularo to Aglianico del Vulture.
🛒 Shop Friularo di Bagnoli Wines Online: Support artisan producers and taste this Venetian classic.
✈️ Plan Your Veneto Wine Journey: Explore Friularo’s terroir and enjoy food and wine tourism in Bagnoli di Sopra.
