2023 i Clivi Schioppettino, Friuli

From the cool, breezy hills of Friuli’s Colli Orientali, this Schioppettino captures the spicy, savoury soul of one of Italy’s most distinctive native red varieties. i Clivi is renowned for their old vine focus and minimal intervention philosophy, working with historic vineyards to express Friuli’s terroir with purity and authenticity. Schioppettino thrives in these marl and sandstone soils, delivering lifted aromatics, natural freshness and a finely etched structure that sets it apart from more international styles.

The colour is a vibrant ruby with garnet tones. Aromas are immediately expressive, showing sour cherry, red plum and wild berries, layered with cracked black pepper, violets, dried herbs and a subtle earthy note. The palate is medium bodied and energetic, with bright red fruit, fine, slightly grippy tannins and a lively acid line that gives freshness and length. There is a distinctive spicy, savoury edge through the finish that makes it incredibly food friendly and unmistakably Friulian.

Brilliant with charcuterie, grilled sausages, pork dishes, mushroom risotto and herb driven cuisine. Drinking beautifully now for its vibrancy and spice, it will cellar confidently for five to eight years, gaining extra earthy and savoury complexity.