The Refosco grape is a dark-skinned, vitis vinifera grape variety once primarily grown in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region of northeast Italy, although it has now spread to other parts of Italy and abroad, including Slovenia, Australia, and California, among others. It is renowned for producing full-bodied and robust red wines.
Refosco is known for high acidity and assertive tannins, giving the resultant wines an unequivocal austerity and structure. The grapes yield a hearty, earthy flavour profile, typically involving notes of dark fruits such as plum and berries, underscored by a characteristic herbaceousness, occasionally reminiscent of almond or liquorice. These wines are often ruby to purple in colour, offering enticing aromas of raspberry, blackberry, black cherry, plums, and sometimes, a hint of cinnamon or spice.
Interestingly, Refosco wines age gracefully, thanks to their stiff tannin structure and higher acidity. They evolve into a mellower version with age, which can bring a plush fruit quality, allowing for the more subtle undertones to come through, which can include vanilla, cocoa or even truffle nuances.
The Refosco grape has a long history and is believed to have been enjoyed by the ancient Romans. The vine thrives best in cooler climates, and when the grapes are given enough time to ripen, it can lead to a beautifully balanced wine.
For food pairings, Refosco wines are perfect to match hearty dishes, like game, stews, aged cheese, and traditional Italian pasta dishes.
The Refosco grape is also known for its many varieties, with Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso, a variant distinguished by its red stems, amongst the most popular. Whether you favour a young, vibrant pour or prefer a mature bottle with layers of complexity, Refosco can offer a memorable wine experience. It truly stands as a testament to the rich winemaking heritage of Italy.
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