Friuli Aquileia Wine Region Guide

Friuli Aquileia is a region of Italy that is not well-known, yet it has a lot to offer. It is located in the foothills of the Alps, and it borders Austria and Slovenia. The region has been known for its wine production for centuries, but other industries have grown as well. The food industry thrives in Friuli Aquileia due to its rich history, traditions, and culture. It's also home to many historical sites and buildings from various periods of time including Roman ruins from the 1st century BC. In 1975, it was awarded its DOC for the eponymous commune of Aquileia and 16 communes in the province of Udine.

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Friuli Aquileia Geography & Climate

Friuli Aquileia is a region of Italy. It has a population of about one million people and an area of about 5,000 square kilometers. The Friuli Aquileia region is the northernmost part of Italy. It borders Austria and Slovenia to the north, Croatia to the south, and on all other sides it is surrounded by water. The Friuli Aquileia climate is varied because it experiences a continental climate in the east and a Mediterranean climate in the west.

The area around Aquileia is known for excellent grape-growing conditions thanks to its terroir. The city of Aquileia was in 181 BC and the surroundings still remain today.

The city enjoys a temperate maritime climate because it is close to the Adriatic Sea, which has a huge impact on ventilation in the summer and helps reduce humidity. The vines grow especially well in the moist topsoil and have access to the nutrient-rich subsoil. Northern soils are glacial, alluvial and comprised of clay and gravel. Southern soils are sandy loess that result in excellent wines with distinct aromas.

Grape Varieties and Wines from Friuli Aquileia Wine Region

This region is similar to its other neighbors in the Friuli area which produce wines from the same varieties. The typical wines of this region are less structured and lighter in the body. They are also often consumed young. However, the fertile soil of the plains produces great reds with good levels of concentration and elegance with some very accomplished white wines as well. You may have heard about some of the wines from a country called Italy. These are usually made with the grape Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, which is combined with Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso. If the grapes come from vineyards that are densely planted, these wines can be matured in smaller French oak casks too.

Please don’t use any blends of wine made up of more than one variety. Not only will it not conform to the DOC but you won’t get the real flavor of an Aquileia varietal. The Friuli Aquileia Bianco must contain a minimum of 50% Friulano with the remaining composed of Chardonnay, Malvasia Istriana, Pinot Bianco, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Muller-Thurgau, Traminer Aromatico, and Verduzzo Friulano. Sparkling wine can also be made from this combination.

Food to pair with Friuli Aquileia

Friulian Rissoto

Friulian risotto is made from Carnaroli rice, white wine, butter, saffron threads and Parmesan cheese. It's usually served with a side salad tossed in a vinaigrette. The kaffir lime leaves are often added to the dish. to give it a slightly citrusy flavour. Kaffir lime leaves are used in Southeast Asian and Caribbean cooking, lending a citrusy flavour to dishes like curry and braised meats.

Torta di ricotta

The second dish is a savoury tart called "torta di ricotta" which is made with a filling of ricotta cheese, onion, and green bell pepper in an egg-based custard that's spread on the bottom of the tart shell. The tart has a thin crust made from bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese that's sprinkled on top of the tart. First, a crust made from bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese is sprinkled on top of the tart shell. Second, the filling is made by mixing ricotta cheese, green onion, and green bell pepper in an egg-based custard with bread crumbs. Third, the filling is poured into the tart shell and baked for 30 minutes at 375⁰F.

Places to Visit in Friuli Aquileia

Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta

South of the city center of Aquileia is the beautiful Basilica, which was built during the reign of Emperor Justinian (530-565). It is a masterpiece that is said to be inspired by Hagia Sophia. The church contains an underground crypt with ancient Christian inscriptions and Roman sculptures.

Montello Nature Reserve

North, near Monfalcone on the Slovenian border, there is the Montello Nature Reserve. It is a nature park that offers panoramic views for hikers and bird watchers alike. There are also opportunities for mountain biking, horseback riding, and jeep tours. There are also summer camps for children to learn about the local flora and fauna.

Lake Garda

A little less than an hour from Pordenone in Pedaso Parziale there's Lake Garda, which has set many travelers' hearts aflutter since the early 17th century. A place where the waters are clear, the mountains are green and lively, and you can feel a sense of calm that's difficult to come by anywhere else. Lake Garda is practically on the border with Venice in Italy. If you want to discover this region for yourself, there are plenty of tour operators based here who will be happy to show you around.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Friuli Aquileia