Livio Felluga is a renowned wine producer located in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region of Italy. The history of the Felluga family in winemaking dates back to the late 1800s, when Livio's grandfather, Marco Felluga, began producing wine in Istria, which was then part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. After World War II, the family was forced to flee Istria and settled in Friuli, where they continued their winemaking tradition.

Livio Felluga himself began working in the family business in the 1950s and quickly gained a reputation for his innovative winemaking techniques. He was one of the first in the region to introduce stainless steel tanks for fermentation, which allowed for better control over the winemaking process. He also experimented with different grape varieties, including Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, which were not traditionally grown in the region.

Today, Livio Felluga produces a range of high-quality wines, including both white and red varieties. Their flagship wine is the Terre Alte, a blend of Friulano, Pinot Bianco, and Sauvignon Blanc grapes. This wine is aged in oak barrels for 12 months, giving it a complex and rich flavor profile. Other notable wines from Livio Felluga include the Pinot Grigio, which is crisp and refreshing with notes of citrus and green apple, and the Rosazzo, a blend of Friulano, Pinot Bianco, and Sauvignon Blanc grapes that is aged in oak barrels for 18 months.

Livio Felluga is known for their commitment to sustainable winemaking practices. They use only organic fertilizers in their vineyards and have implemented a number of measures to reduce their carbon footprint. They also work closely with local farmers to promote biodiversity in the region.

Overall, Livio Felluga is a producer that is highly regarded for their innovative winemaking techniques and commitment to sustainability. Their wines are complex and flavorful, and are sure to impress even the most discerning wine connoisseur.

Friuli Venezia Giulia is a region located in the northeastern part of Italy, bordering Austria and Slovenia. The region is known for producing high-quality white wines, particularly those made from the Friulano grape variety. The region also produces red wines, such as the Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso and Schioppettino.

The history of winemaking in Friuli Venezia Giulia dates back to the Roman era, with the region being an important trading hub for wine during the Middle Ages. The region's winemaking traditions were further developed during the 19th century, with the introduction of modern winemaking techniques.

The style of production in Friuli Venezia Giulia is characterized by a focus on quality over quantity. The region's winemakers use sustainable and organic farming practices, and many of the wines are produced using traditional methods, such as hand-harvesting and natural fermentation.

In addition to wine, Friuli Venezia Giulia is also known for producing a variety of spirits, including grappa and amaro. Grappa is a traditional Italian spirit made from the pomace (the leftover grape skins, seeds, and stems) of wine production. Amaro is a bitter herbal liqueur that is often consumed as a digestif.

Overall, Friuli Venezia Giulia is a region that is steeped in winemaking tradition and produces some of Italy's finest wines and spirits. Its focus on quality and sustainability has helped to establish the region as a leader in the world of wine and spirits.

The Colli Orientali del Friuli DOC is a prestigious wine appellation in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region of northeastern Italy. Nestled along the foothills near the Slovenian border, this area is celebrated for its exceptional white and red wines, crafted with precision and care to highlight the unique terroir.

The Terroir

The rolling hills of Colli Orientali benefit from marl and sandstone soils, known locally as "ponca," which contribute to the wines' complexity and minerality. A mild, sunny climate, influenced by the nearby Adriatic Sea and the Alps, provides ideal growing conditions for both indigenous and international grape varieties.

The Wines

Colli Orientali del Friuli DOC is renowned for its diversity, producing both white and red wines of remarkable quality:

• White Wines: Varieties like Friulano, Ribolla Gialla, and Malvasia thrive here, producing elegant wines with vibrant acidity and floral, fruity profiles.
• Red Wines: Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso and Schioppettino create structured, aromatic reds, while international varieties like Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon also excel.
• Sweet Wines: The appellation is famous for its exquisite Picolit and Verduzzo sweet wines, often enjoyed as dessert wines or paired with mature cheeses.

Why Explore Colli Orientali del Friuli?

This appellation offers a window into the rich winemaking heritage of Friuli. With a focus on indigenous varieties and sustainable practices, Colli Orientali del Friuli DOC presents wines that are not only rooted in tradition but also innovative and expressive of the region’s unique character.

Explore the refined elegance of Colli Orientali del Friuli DOC wines, where centuries of tradition meet the artistry of modern winemaking.