Forgiarin

The Forgiarin grape is a rare red variety from Friuli-Venezia Giulia, with uncertain origins but likely named after the village of Forgaria in the province of Udine. Historically cultivated in areas such as San Daniele, Spilimbergo, and Maniago, today its presence is largely limited to Pinzano al Tagliamento and Castelnuovo del Friuli. Here, Forgiarin stands as a testament to the region’s viticultural history and dedication to preserving native varieties.

Forgiarin produces wines with a distinct personality. Depending on the vintage, the wine can be soft and slightly sweet, showing a harmonious balance of alcohol, acidity, and tannins. Its character has been compared to Pinot Nero dell’Oltrepò Pavese and Lago di Caldaro wines, sharing similarly pleasant, elegant sensations and a smooth drinking experience. Forgiarin is deeply rooted in tradition and remains a little-known treasure worth discovering.

The grape has medium-sized, ellipsoidal black berries with waxy, black-blue skin. The bunch is medium, compact, tapered, short, and often winged, with leaves that are pentagonal and three- to five-lobed. The vine has medium vigor and ripens in the medium-late season.

Wines made from Forgiarin are intense ruby red with violet reflections, which tend to fade toward orange hues with short aging. Aromatically, it is intense and vinous, though not particularly fruity. Instead, it offers earthy tones of undergrowth, toasted almond, and occasionally moss. On the palate, Forgiarin is soft and gently sweet, making it approachable and distinctive.