Collio Goriziano o Collio

The wines of the Protected Designation of Origin "Collio Goriziano" (also known as "Collio") identifies different types of wines, with an indication of the variety of origin: Chardonnay, Malvasia, Muller Thurgau, Picolit, Pinot Bianco, Pinot Grigio, Ribolla, Ribolla Gialla, Riesling, Riesling Italico, Sauvignon, Friulano, Traminer, Cabernet, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot. To these is added a red without indication of grape variety. In addition, all the wines of the denomination can also be produced in the Riserva variant.

Grapes

All wines of the denomination must be produced from the following grape varieties: Chardonnay, Malvasia istriana bianca, Muller Thurgau, Picolit, Pinot bianco, Pinot grigio, Ribolla, Ribolla gialla, Riesling renano, Riesling italico, Sauvignon, Tocai friulano, Traminer aromatico, Cabernet franc, Cabernet sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot nero. In the generic red or white variants, they can also be used in combination, for a minimum of 85%. In the case of indication on the label, however, this share must be satisfied by the only grape variety of reference.

Physicochemical and Organoleptic properties

The White (11.5% vol.) is presented in a tonality that ranges from straw yellow to deep yellow, with different degrees of intensity, sometimes embellished with copper reflections. The aroma is delicate and slightly aromatic, while the taste is dry, fresh and harmonious. The Rosso (11.5% vol.), on the other hand, has a ruby red colour with garnet reflections, accompanied by a vinous and slightly herbaceous aroma and a full-bodied, harmonious and dry flavour. In the variants with indication of grape variety, these organoleptic characteristics are enriched with additional features, which can be found punctually described in the specification.

Grape production area

The production area coincides with a wide hilly area in the north of the province of Gorizia, close to the Slovenian border.

Specificity and historical notes

The most important evidence of the importance and spread of viticulture in the area of Collio is by Erodiano, a Greek historian of the third century BC.