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What is Friuli Isonzo / Isonzo del Friuli DOC?
Friuli Isonzo DOC (Isonzo del Friuli) is a 1974-designated appellation in Friuli-Venezia Giulia known for fresh, aromatic whites, elegant rosés, characterful reds, and distinctive sparkling and late-harvest wines.
Located on the alluvial plains of the Isonzo River, it bridges the Alps and the Adriatic Sea, yielding wines that are vibrant, mineral-rich, and deeply expressive of place.
Why It Matters
Friuli Isonzo DOC is more than a wine zone—it is a cultural crossroads. Romans cultivated its soils, Venetians traded its harvest, and Slavic routes brought spices and influences east to west. Today, its wines embody that history of exchange: cosmopolitan yet rooted, approachable yet layered. For curious global drinkers, Isonzo offers a way to taste Friuli’s multicultural identity in a single glass.
History and Origins
- Roman settlers first planted vines along the Isonzo River.
- Centuries of flood deposition enriched the soils with pebbly clays and sands.
- In 1974, Friuli Isonzo was awarded DOC status, cementing its role alongside Collio and Colli Orientali as one of Friuli’s key appellations.
Where It’s Made: Geography & Terroir
- Location: Southern Friuli, province of Gorizia
- Landscape: Flat alluvial plains shaped by glacial floods
- Soils: Pebbles, gravel, clay, sand – highly permeable yet nutrient-rich
- Climate: Adriatic warmth by day, alpine breezes by night → slow, balanced ripening
The Grape (or Blend)
Whites:
- Friulano
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Pinot Grigio
- Chardonnay
- Malvasia, Gewürztraminer, Riesling, Moscato Giallo
Reds:
- Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso
- Merlot
- Cabernet Franc
- Schioppettino
- Pinot Nero
Styles: Still whites & reds, Rosato, Frizzante, Spumante, Vendemmia Tardiva (late harvest).
Winemaking & DOC Regulations
- Varietal and blend wines permitted (minimum 85% for varietal labeling).
- Whites may be crafted in stainless steel for freshness or with oak aging for texture.
- Sparkling styles (Spumante, Frizzante) allowed from both native and international grapes.
- Vendemmia Tardiva adds a sweet, contemplative dimension.
Key Facts at a Glance
- DOC Established: 1974
- Vineyard Area: ~722 ha (2021)
- Annual Production: ~21,300 hl (2022)
- Signature Whites: Friulano, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio
- Signature Reds: Refosco, Merlot, Schioppettino
- Price Range: $20–$30 for high-quality bottles
Comparison Table: Friuli’s Three Appellations
| Feature | Friuli Isonzo DOC | Collio DOC | Colli Orientali DOC |
| Terrain | Flat alluvial plains | Rolling hills | Steep hills |
| Wine Style | Fresh, aromatic whites | Complex, age-worthy | Terroir-driven, elegant |
| Key Grapes | Friulano, Sauvignon, PG | Ribolla Gialla, Friulano | Refosco, Schioppettino |
| Price Range | $20–$30 | $25–$50+ | $20–$40 |
Tasting Notes
- Friulano: Almond-kissed, round, and velvety.
- Sauvignon Blanc: Zesty citrus, tomato leaf, stony minerality.
- Pinot Grigio: Elegant, floral, sometimes with a toasty finish.
- Refosco: Deep ruby, notes of plum, herbs, and spice.
Serving & Pairing
- Friulano & Sauvignon Blanc: Pair with seafood risotto, prosciutto di San Daniele, goat cheese.
- Pinot Grigio: Excellent with grilled vegetables or shellfish.
- Refosco & Merlot: Perfect alongside jota Triestina (bean and sauerkraut soup), roasted lamb, or aged Montasio cheese.
- Vendemmia Tardiva whites: Ideal with almond pastries or Gubana cake.
Producer Spotlights
- Luisa Winery – A benchmark estate, celebrated for its mineral Sauvignon Blanc and toasty Pinot Grigio.
- Tercic Wines – Family-run, producing expressive Friulano and rare Schioppettino.
- Lis Neris – Innovative winemaker known for refined Sauvignon Picol bottlings.
Where to Buy & Pricing
- Luisa Pinot Grigio Isonzo DOC: ~$20–$25
- Luisa Sauvignon Isonzo DOC: ~$20–$25
- Lis Neris “Picol” Sauvignon: ~€25
Available at specialty retailers, Italian e-commerce platforms, and wine-searcher listings.
FAQ on Friuli Isonzo DOC
- Is Friuli Isonzo only about white wine?
No—though whites dominate, reds like Refosco and Schioppettino thrive here too. - What makes Isonzo unique compared to Collio?
Isonzo’s flat alluvial plains give fresher, more approachable wines, while Collio’s hills yield complex, age-worthy bottlings. - Can Isonzo wines age?
Yes—especially structured Sauvignon Blanc and Refosco, which evolve beautifully for 5–10 years.
Fun Facts & Cultural Notes
- “Isonzo” comes from the river that has shaped its soils for millennia.
- The appellation sits at a cultural crossroads: Roman, Venetian, Austrian, and Slavic influences all left their mark.
Locals sometimes refer to Isonzo wines as “gateway wines of Friuli”—welcoming, expressive, and cosmopolitan.
Have you tried Friuli Isonzo wines? Share your favorite bottle or food pairing in the comments—or tag @DrinkItalian on Instagram to be featured in our community spotlight!
Have fun to learn more about Italian Wines and Spirits! Explore also the non-alcoholic beverages
Send us an email if you want to suggest edits, or if you are looking for more info, at
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If you are in the mood for a good book, you can try:
– The Modern History of Italian Wine by Walter Filipputti
– Hidden Gems of Italy: An Insider’s Secret Formula To Find Top-Class Italian Wines At Value Prices And Taste La Dolce Vita by Tony Margiotta
Additionally, you can discover the other wines from Friuli Venezia Giulia.
