2023 presented Friuli with rarely seen challenges. A cool, wet spring favoured severe downy mildew, followed by devastating hailstorms in July. Many winegrowers lost large parts of their harvest, but it was precisely in this extreme situation that wines of remarkable clarity were produced. Strict selection and precise vinification led to a style that redefined Friuli: rich in finesse, mineral, independent. Friulano, Ribolla Gialla and Malvasia are unusually precise, while Schioppettino, Refosco and Merlot reveal aromatic depth.
Vinous expert Eric Guido also describes a vintage that was unpredictable, but whose best wines shine with character, energy and surprising intensity. Particularly exciting is the development of the red wines, which are increasingly gaining profile and in some cases even surpassing the white wines. Refosco and Schioppettino are growing in their stylistic maturity, Pignolo is experiencing a quiet comeback and some Merlot interpretations are reaching new heights.
Anyone who wants to understand how powerful terroir and winemaking craftsmanship can be even under adverse conditions will find impressive examples in the 2023 vintage. Many wines break with expectations and open up fresh perspectives on this tradition-rich region.
Discover the most exciting wines of this special vintage now and secure your favourites in the shop – while these rare 2023s are available.