FRIULIANO
Northeastern Italy’s Quiet White Gem
Friulano is a native white grape from Italy’s Friuli-Venezia Giulia region, known for its almond-tinged finish, subtle floral aromas, and crisp minerality. Often under the radar, Friulano is a sommelier favorite for its balance, food-friendliness, and ability to express terroir with quiet elegance.
Key Characteristics
Friulano delivers a soft, slightly waxy texture, fresh acidity, and savory undertones that distinguish it from fruitier white varieties.
Style
White
Body
Medium
Acidity
Medium
Primary Grapes
Friulano (also known historically as Tocai Friulano)
Typical Flavors
Pear, green apple, white flowers, bitter almond, hay, herbs
Origin & History
Friulano has deep roots in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region, where it was historically called Tocai Friulano until EU naming restrictions changed that in the 2000s. Despite the name shift, the grape has remained a regional mainstay and a symbol of local identity.
How It’s Made
Typically fermented in stainless steel to preserve freshness, though some versions are aged on lees for complexity. Skin contact and large old barrels are sometimes used in natural or more artisanal styles.
Notable Regions
Friulano is most expressive in northeastern Italy, where it reflects the region’s alpine-meets-Adriatic terroir with minerality and restraint.
Friuli
Venezia Giulia
Italy
The spiritual home of Friulano, especially in the Collio and Colli Orientali del Friuli zones, where the grape produces elegant, mineral-driven wines.
Slovenia
In neighboring Brda and beyond, the same grape may appear under the name Jakot (Tocai spelled backward) or Sauvignonasse.
Food Pairings
Friulano’s combination of freshness and savory tones pairs well with delicate yet flavorful cuisine.
Appetizers
Prosciutto di San Daniele, polenta bites, white bean salad
Seafood
Grilled trout, calamari, octopus with lemon and olive oil
Cheeses
Montasio, ricotta, fresh mozzarella
Vegetables
Grilled artichokes, asparagus, fennel
How to Serve It
Glassware
White wine glass to highlight aromatics and texture
Temperature
48–52°F (9–11°C)
Storage
Cool, dark place; enjoy young for freshness or hold 2–3 years for added complexity
Fun Fact
Because of EU regulations protecting Hungary’s Tokaji, Italy had to drop the name “Tocai” in 2007—so the wine is now simply labeled Friulano.
Try This If You Like
Verdicchio
Pinot Bianco
Soave
Grillo
Whites with savory notes and gentle texture
Recommended Producers
These houses exemplify the diversity and craftsmanship of Friulano, a distinctive white varietal that reflects the elegance and complexity of Friuli-Venezia Giulia.
Livio Felluga
A pioneering estate in Friuli, known for fresh, expressive whites that balance fruit purity with regional character.
Mario Schiopetto
A benchmark producer crafting refined, structured Friulano with depth, precision, and aging potential.
Rodaro
A family-run winery offering rich, terroir-driven Friulano that highlights texture, ripeness, and mineral nuance.
Recommended Pours
Livio Felluga - Friulano 2022 — A fresh and elegant white with notes of pear, almond, and subtle herbal nuance, showcasing Friuli’s signature style.
Mario Schiopetto - Friulano 2021 — A refined and textural Friulano with ripe stone fruit, white flowers, and a long, savory finish.
Rodaro - Friulano 2020 — A rich and structured expression of Friulano, offering golden apple, hazelnut, and a touch of salinity.