From: Corno di Rosazzo, Friuli Colli Orientali DOC, Italy
Varietal: Pinot Grigio
Taste: This technically orange wine undergoes a 72-hour skin contact at low temperatures post-harvest, resulting in a light pink, salmon-colored ramato with coppery highlights, a nod to the traditional Pinot Grigio techniques emphasizing prolonged skin contact. The nose reveals an intriguing complexity, starting with an immediate minerality reminiscent of limestone and wet stone and progressing to a blend of sweet spice, mountain herbs, hay, and golden apple. Floral and fruity notes of apples, pears, and berries add layers to the aromatic profile. On the palate, the wine presents an elegant, smooth, and intense experience with sweet and creamy notes, leading to intense and persistent fruity sensations and a sapid, fruity finish. Its refreshing fruit and flowery undertones make this wine an impressive introduction to orange wines, showcasing how the more extended maceration on the grape skins can redefine the character and perception of Pinot Grigio.
Pairing: An orange wine made with Pinot Gris from Friuli Colli Orientali, characterized by its unique maceration process, presents an intriguing palette for food pairing. This wine pairs exceptionally well with various seafood dishes, enhancing the flavors of white fish, octopus, and shrimp, thanks to its rich texture and complex aromatics.
Consider dishes that balance the wine's intensity and aromatic complexity. Grilled or roasted vegetables, especially those with a slight char, can mirror the wine's depth. Artichokes and asparagus, often considered challenging to pair with wine, would complement the wine's herbal and mineral undertones beautifully. Its robust profile also complements white pizza brilliantly, where the absence of tomato sauce lets the subtle blend of cheese and veggies shine alongside the wine's nuanced flavors.
For cheese pairings, opt for aged hard cheeses or rich, creamy varieties like burrata or ricotta, which can match the wine's structure and complement its texture. Furthermore, the wine's fruit-forward nature makes it an excellent match for spicy cuisines, such as Thai or Indian dishes, where its sweetness can counterbalance the heat.
Salad Pizza With White Beans and Parmesan
By Ali Slagle
About: Azienda Agricola Specogna, a winery with a rich history, was established in 1963 when Leonardo Specogna returned from Switzerland to Friuli Venezia Giulia. His journey began when he returned to Italy from Switzerland, where he had been an emigrant, a standard narrative for many from the Friuli region during that era. In 1963, seizing an opportunity to root his future in the rich, wine-friendly soils of his homeland, Leonardo purchased a small plot of land in the hills of Rocca Bernarda at Corno di Rosazzo, in the heart of an area renowned since Roman times for its viticulture. Initially, the farm was diversified, producing dairy, cereal, and wine for private consumption. Over the years, the focus shifted toward specialized winemaking under the direction of Leonardo's successor, Graziano, and later his children, Cristian and Michele. This transition marked the evolution of Azienda Agricola Specogna into a winery devoted exclusively to producing high-quality wines.
Today, Azienda Agricola Specogna is in the hands of the third generation, Cristian and Michele, who have continued to innovate while respecting tradition. Their efforts have significantly expanded the winery's presence in international markets. The company has also developed a second brand, 'Toblar,' further diversifying its wine offerings. Azienda Agricola Specogna is now known for its commitment to organic agriculture, managing around 30 hectares of land, of which 25 are vineyards. The winery produces approximately 120,000 bottles annually, distributed equally between the domestic market and over 30 countries worldwide.
The Friuli Colli Orientali DOC is a distinguished wine region within Friuli Venezia Giulia, Northeast Italy, known for its exceptional viticulture heritage that dates back to Roman times. This region, nestled in the province of Udine, boasts a unique terroir influenced by its proximity to the Adriatic Sea and the Alps, creating optimal conditions for wine production. It was officially recognized as a DOC in 1970 and has undergone several modifications since, including the separation of its former subzones into independent DOCGs in 2011.
