Refosco del Peduncolo Rosso is the best known and most important of the Refoscos and likely Friuli-Venezia Giulia’s best known red wine grape. Peduncolo Rosso translates as ‘red stalk’ as its stalks turn red when fully ripe. Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso is an off-spring of Marzemino and a parent to Corvina. It is not the same grape as Mondeuse Noire as was once thought.
Viticulture: Though considered a late ripener, Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso ripens one to two weeks earlier than the rest of Refoscos. It has thin but resistant skins and is adaptable to a range of soils. However, to curb its natural vigour, it is best in low-nutrient, calcareous-clay and hillside locations.
Wine style: The most aromatically complex of the Refoscos, it demonstrates dried red cherry, fresh herbs, almonds and floral nuances of lavender, geranium and violet. However, these notes often fail to linger. Small barrels are frequently used for aging in order to help smooth Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso’s tannins, which can be tough and astringent and curb reduction, which this grape has a tendency towards. Like the Cabernets, full ripeness is crucial to avoid green, vegetal notes.
Wines: Friuli-Venezia Giulia: Friuli Colli Orientali DOC. | Friuli Grave DOC.