Valle Colli Orientali del Friuli Friulano 22

Valle Vitivinicole, cradled in the picturesque landscapes of Northeastern Italy, is woven deeply into the rich viticultural heritage of the Friuli Venezia Giulia region. The area's favorable microclimatic and terroir is home to the venerable Friuli Colli Orientali DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata). The DOC winds across an extensive range of gently sloping hillsides that all benefit from a perfect blend of climate, soil, and exposure, making it an ideal location for planting Friulano. 

Although Friulano, previously known as Tocai Friulano, may be parked a bit off the radar for many wine lovers, it's eminently deserving of exploration for those who appreciate refreshing, crisp, and unoaked white wines.

The family patriarch, Gigi Valle, began his illustrious wine journey in 1949 after graduating with a degree in oenology. That year, he had the unique opportunity to chauffeur Ernest Hemingway around the hills in search of fine adult beverages. His endeavors continued through the 1950s as an oenological consultant, laying the groundwork for the beginning of his family winery in the mid-1950s. 

Renowned for its adaptability to the local climate and soil, Friulano yields wines that are a genuine reflection of the region's viticultural identity. Valle Cantina's vineyards are meticulously tended, focusing on sustainable viticulture practices that ensure the vine's health and the ecosystem. The vines are planted in well-draining soils that are a mix of marl and sandstone, locally known as ponca, imparting a distinct minerality to the wines. The vineyard's strategic positioning on the hillsides maximizes sun exposure, ensuring optimal ripeness of the Friulano grapes. 

In the glass, Valle Friulano exudes elegant freshness and mineral-driven complexity. The light gold hue leads to an inviting nose of ripe pear, almond, and floral notes, with delicate herbal notes. The palate is greeted with a lovely blend of zippy-freshness, leading to a squeaky-clean finish.

Valle Friulano pairs beautifully with San Daniele prosciutto, the region's traditional culinary superstar, and it will also shine with cuisine, all of your favorite seafood preparations, particularly shellfish and white-fleshed fish.