Friulano — Buy Online in Ireland
Friulano is the signature white grape of Friuli-Venezia Giulia in northeast Italy — a quietly distinguished variety that produces wines of lean, herbal elegance and genuine gastronomic versatility. Long known as Tocai Friulano before a European Union ruling required a name change, Friulano is a wine lover's grape: understated, honest and immensely satisfying with food. At Wines Direct, we offer a hand-selected range of Friulano wines, available with fast delivery across Ireland.
About Friulano
Friulano has been the defining white grape of Friuli for centuries, grown across the region's varied sub-zones — Collio, Colli Orientali del Friuli, Friuli Grave and Isonzo — each of which imparts a slightly different character to the wine. Despite long being called Tocai Friulano, genetic research has established that it is in fact a variety called Sauvignonasse (or Friulano), distinct from true Sauvignon Blanc though sharing some aromatic similarities. The EU ruling removing the Tocai name came into effect in 2007, and the variety is now simply sold as Friulano. It thrives on the region's diverse soils — the ponca (layered marl and sandstone) of Collio and Colli Orientali gives the finest results — producing wines that are both characterful and food-friendly. Friulano is also an important component in the regional white blends for which Friuli is celebrated.
Flavour Profile & Style
Friulano is sometimes described as lean and herbal, but the best examples are considerably more complex. Expect aromas of fresh almonds, white blossom, dried herbs (particularly sage), green apple and citrus, with a subtle bitter almond note on the finish that is a hallmark of the variety. On the palate, it is light to medium-bodied with lively, clean acidity and a dry, mineral character. The finish has a characteristic, pleasantly bitter quality — an Italian sensibility that makes the wine particularly stimulating with food.
Food Pairings
Friulano is essentially a foodie's wine — as the saying goes, it stands tall beside greens. It is outstanding with light antipasti, prosciutto and salumi, vegetable dishes and freshwater fish from the region's rivers. The herbal, almond character also makes it a natural match for white fish, shellfish and light pasta dishes. For an Irish context, try it with smoked salmon, crab claws or a simple seafood linguine.
Why Buy from Wines Direct?
Wines Direct is Ireland's leading independent wine merchant, based in Mullingar and delivering nationwide. We source directly from dedicated Friulian producers who understand this grape's quiet greatness. Orders over €150 qualify for free delivery across Ireland. Discover the understated pleasures of Friulano at Wines Direct.
