2021 Bastianich - Schioppettino Friuli Rosso IGT (750ml)

Bastianich was founded in 1997 by Lidia Bastianich and her family, who set out to reconnect with their Friulian roots after decades in the restaurant world. The estate encompasses twenty seven hectares of vineyards spread across two zones within the Colli Orientali del Friuli, an area where viticulture stretches back to the second century BC. The family draws on the region's distinctive marl and clay soil, known locally as ponca, along with a microclimate shaped by cool Alpine winds and the nearby Adriatic Sea, to craft wines built around Friuli's native grape varieties.

This bottling is made entirely from Schioppettino, also known as Ribolla Nera, a red grape indigenous to the hills of eastern Friuli and prized for its aromatic, spicy character. The vines, roughly twenty years old, grow on calcareous marl soils within the Colli Orientali del Friuli DOC. Fermentation and aging are handled with care to preserve the variety's natural spice and lift, resulting in a wine of around 13.5% alcohol that speaks clearly of its origin.

The wine pours a bright ruby red with violet highlights and opens with black pepper spice layered over red berries and plum. On the palate it turns soft and supple, carrying zesty acidity, a touch of blueberry and wild berry fruit, and fine, well integrated tannins. Look for a savory finish with hints of licorice, making this a fitting partner for roasted meats, game, or aged cheeses.