Two buzzworthy Italian wine terms (well, one's a place and one's a grape): Friuli and Arneis

July 12, 10:36 AMWine ExaminerLeslie Cramer

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Located in the southern part of Italy's northeast wine growing region, Friuli-Venezia Giulia wines show strong ties to their German and Slavic neighbors.  To the north of the region are the Alps, bordering it from Austria. 

Considered by some to be one of Italy's predominant wine production regions--along with the Piedmont and Tuscany--the Friuli produces mostly lighter-bodied whites like the ever-popular Pinot Grigio, Pinot Bianco, Verduzzo, Traminer, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Friulano, each grape depending on which part of the region they hail, the sandstone, clay hilly north or the gravelly, sandy valley. Be sure to catch the attached video on Friuli whites.

Reds from the region of note are Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and the local varieties Tazzelenghe (very tannic and fruity) and  Schioppettino (tannic, peppery spice along with the fruit) and Refosco dal peduncolo rosso (full-bodied herbaceous, high acidity wines that age well.)

Arneis, a white grape of the Piedmont, translates to 'little rascal," hinting a difficult grape to grow.  It is grown in limited quantities in its homeland but is making a good showing of late in Australia.  Tasting notes call it almondy-nutty, aromatic with delicate fruit, herby and dry, low acidity, crisp and floral. It  pairs well with Meditteranean foods.

For more info:  Try an Arneis with a seafood-inspired dish and a Friuli wine, preferably something other than a Pinot Grigio.