📍 Friuli Grave

Friuli Grave is the largest wine zone in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region of north-eastern Italy. It is a broad plain between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea, covered with pebbles and gravel brought down by rivers, notably the Tagliamento.

Gravel soils drain well and heat up strongly in the day, while cool Alpine nights help the grapes keep their acidity. That gives fresh whites and soft reds.

Growers plant Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Friulano, and among reds Merlot and Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso. Pinot Grigio is especially important here, making dry, fresh wines with a light floral aroma. Sparkling wines are made too.

Grave belongs to Friuli-Venezia Giulia and differs from the neighbouring hilly zones of Colli Orientali and Collio: those give more concentrated wines, while Grave offers everyday, affordable ones. Fresh whites from Grave go well with fish, vegetables and the famous San Daniele ham of Friuli. The name Friuli Grave on a label shows that the grapes grew in this very area, which makes it easy to look for similar wines.