by InTrieste
As the doors opened on Sunday at Vinitaly, Italy’s biggest wine fair, wine educator and storyteller Filippo Bartolotta was ready to take guests on a sensory journey through the distinct terroirs of Friuli Venezia Giulia. From the Alpine foothills to the Adriatic lagoons, the region’s wines reflect a rich interplay of climate, soil, and centuries-old tradition. We sat down with Bartolotta just before his workshop to learn more.
Filippo, we’re here because — let’s face it — we need wine. Where are you taking us today?
We’re going on a journey across Friuli Venezia Giulia, starting in the Alps, moving through the plains, and ending by the sea. It’s an incredibly diverse region, and we’ll be tasting wines that reflect that — a real cross-section of terroirs.
What are some of the key appellations you’re showcasing?
I’ll be pouring wines from Collio, Colli Orientali del Friuli, and Grave — which is the largest DOC in the region. We’ll also touch on Isonzo, spend a little time in the Carso region, which is stunning, and then circle back to Collio. It’s going to be a pretty complete picture.
For someone new to Friuli Venezia Giulia wines, what would you suggest they try first?
Friuli Venezia Giulia has long been known as the home of Italy’s finest white wines. In the 1980s through the mid-’90s, there was no question — this was the benchmark for Italian whites. Then the spotlight shifted elsewhere for a while. But I think now is the moment to rediscover what makes Friuli’s whites so compelling.
And the reds?
The reds are fantastic, too — and often overlooked. I’ll be opening some Schioppettino and Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso. These are deeply expressive indigenous grapes that really shine with a bit of age. In fact, I’ve brought a few bottles going back as far as 1985. It’s going to be fun.
Do you have a personal favorite? Or is that impossible to answer?
Tough question! But if I had to choose one, I’d go with Friulano. It’s the soul of the region. If you walk into a bar in Friuli and ask for a glass of wine, they’ll pour you Friulano — no questions asked. It’s the everyday wine, but also incredibly nuanced and satisfying.
