At a glance

Producer

Schiopetto

Region

Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy

Grape variety

Merlot and Refosco blend

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$50-$70 USD

Tasting profile

Fresh blackberry, dark cherry, wild herbs, a touch of spice and violet; earthy minerality, silky tannins, moderate oak presence.

Evolution: Over time, will develop tertiary notes: leather, tobacco, dried herbs, more pronounced earth and savory complexity.

At peak: Harmony between fruit, tannin, and spice; beautifully integrated earthy and herbal notes, plush mouthfeel with subtle oak.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high, bright and supporting longevity

Tannins

Medium to medium-plus, refined and well-integrated

Alcohol

Moderate (typically 13-14%)

Aging potential

Excellent for a Friuli red blend; 8-12 years cellaring easily achievable

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2026 to 2030

Optimal window

2024 to 2032

Current status

Young but drinkable; primary fruit is vibrant with moderate structure.

Current condition

Fresh, structured, and harmonious, suitable for decanting now, but will benefit from further cellaring.

This wine is structured for mid-term aging; the blend’s naturally robust tannin and acidity preserve freshness and allow development. 2026–2030 aligns with expected maturation and optimal secondary complexity, as fruit, structure, and emerging savory notes integrate fully.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb, venison, duck breast with berry reduction, aged pecorino, wild mushroom risotto, charcuterie with herbal accents.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has medium to medium-plus tannins which can benefit from aeration to enhance its flavors and aromas, especially given its blend of Merlot and Refosco.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Manual harvesting, minimal intervention, grassing between vineyard rows, reduced synthetic input, gravity-fed winemaking, renewable energy initiatives, focus on water efficiency.

Schiopetto is recognized for sustainable vineyard management (cover cropping, limited treatments, minimal irrigation), and energy-conscious operations, though not certified organic. Packaging choices (often lighter bottles, recyclable materials) help reduce environmental impact. Supply chain emissions are typical for premium EU wines—better for local consumption, higher for overseas. The estate is a positive model for regional sustainability in Friuli without formal certifications.