Verduzzo Friulano

Verduzzo Friulano is an indigenous white grape variety native to Friuli Venezia Giulia, one of Italy’s most diverse and esteemed wine regions. It is grown primarily in the province of Udine, where it is commonly referred to as "Verduz" in the local dialect. This historic grape has been cultivated in the region for centuries and continues to be a cornerstone of Friulian viticulture.

Verduzzo Friulano is notable for its versatility, capable of producing both dry and sweet wines depending on where and how it is grown and vinified. In the Grave plains and lower-lying areas, where the climate and soils favour fresher styles, Verduzzo Friulano is typically vinified dry, resulting in elegant white wines with bright acidity, moderate alcohol, and intense fruity notes, ranging from apple and pear to apricot and citrus.

In contrast, in the Colli Orientali del Friuli, where the hills allow for longer ripening periods, Verduzzo Friulano is more often used for the production of sweet wines, including late-harvest and passito (dried grape) styles. These wines are rich and complex, showing notes of honey, dried fruit, and nuts, and often exhibit excellent ageing potential, particularly when matured in wood.

The grape itself has yellow-golden berries with thick, tannin-rich skins, which not only make it suitable for drying but also contribute to the unique structure and mouthfeel of both dry and sweet styles. As a result, even the sweeter expressions retain freshness and balance.

Although sometimes overshadowed by more famous Italian white grapes, Verduzzo Friulano represents a true expression of Friuli’s winemaking identity, offering a wide stylistic range and strong connection to its terroir.