Wine Grape: Schioppettino
Red wine grape, native to Italy's Friuli region and cultivated there since at least the 13th century when it was cited in a marriage ceremony in 1282. Following the Phylloxera epidemic, it gave way to French varieties such as Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot in the 20th century. Today it is coming back, along with other local varieties such as Tazzelenghe and Pignolo. In the local dialect of Udine, the grape was called Scopp which could explain the current name. Another theory is that the name comes from the character of the grape; the Italian verb scoppiare means to burst or explode, and might refer to the thick skins and crunchiness of the grapes.
Synonyms
Also known as Pocalza, Ribolla Nera, Schiopettino, Scoppiettino
Where
Italy: Friuli-Venezia Giulia
Principal Wines
Italy: Friuli-Venezia Giulia: Colli Orientali del Friuli DOC, Friuli Isonzo or Isonzo del Friuli DOC
Characteristics
Color: Intense dark purple.
Nose: Intense. aromas Fruity (raspberries), Floral (violets), Spicy (black pepper)
Palate: Medium body. Lightly tannic good acidity.
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