Tasting Notes

The region’s enological flagship, Friulano is the most widely planted grape in Friuli. To the palate it is full-bodied and robust, yet maintaining an optimal balance between freshness and softness. Aromas are clear-cut and well-defined: meadow flowers, jasmine and pear balanced by its typical minerality. Often served as an aperitif, Friulano pairs extremely well with cold-cuts (try Prosciutto San Daniele), fresh, fatty cheeses, and it is excellent when served with fish, risotto and omelettes.

Formerly known as Tocai Friulano, Friulano is probably the most famous of the white wines of Friuli. In the 1990s and into the early years of the new millenium, Friulano has been embroiled in a legal struggle over the use of the name ‘Tokay’ and its various permutations. In 1995 the EU ruled that ‘Tokay’ could only be used to describe the wines of Tokaj in eastern Hungary. In 2007 it became illegal for Italian producers to use the name Tocai on labels. Thankfully the variety has salvaged the second half of its name Friulano which means ‘of Friuli’ making it easier to maintain its regional identity.

– 2014 rated 90 WS

– 2015 rated 90 WS

– 2016 rated 92 WRO

– 2017 rated 92 WRO, 91 WS

– 2018 rated 90 WS

– 2019 rated 90 WS, 3 Bicchieri GR, 91 JS

Winery	Torre Rosazza
Region	Friuli
Varietal	100% (Tocai) Friulano
Location of Vineyards	Oleis di Manzano, estate-owned vineyards
Altitude	130–170 meters above sea level
Type of Planting	Traditional
Soil	Marly and eocenic
Type of Cultivation	Guyot, 4,500 vines per hectare
Vinification	Destemmed grapes are pressed softly and macerated at low temperatures. Alcoholic fermentation occurs in stainless steel. The wine rests on yeasts for approx. 4 months plus 2 months in bottle.
Alcohol Content	12.5%
Total Production	14,000 bottles
Oenologist	Riccardo Cottarella (consultant)