Wines Venezia Giulia Vigne del Malina - Collezione Privata - 2016

Viniou Reviews

Vigne del Malina’s Cuvée Collezione Privata 2016 from Venezia Giulia IGT is an expressive red blend from the heart of Friuli-Venezia Giulia in northeastern Italy. Though the precise varietal composition is not specified, this region is renowned for both native varieties like Refosco, Schioppettino, and international grapes such as Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, which often form the backbone of local red blends. The 2016 vintage benefited from a balanced, classic growing season, allowing for full phenolic ripeness and refined tannin development. Wines from this area are often made with a judicious combination of stainless steel and oak maturation, lending both freshness and complexity.

Friuli-Venezia Giulia itself is a region shaped by its proximity to the Adriatic Sea and the sheltering Julian Alps. These climatic influences create significant day-night temperature variation, crucial for preserving acidity and aromatic finesse in the fruit. The vineyards are rooted in soils composed mainly of marl and sandstone—locally called “ponca”—which drain well yet retain enough moisture for deep root development, contributing to the wines’ juicy structure and mineral nuances. This region, long a crossroads of Italian, Slavic, and Germanic cultures, is famed for its innovation in winemaking, and Venezia Giulia IGT stands for a flexible, quality-driven appellation that encourages experimentation.

For food pairings, consider the wine’s likely combination of structure, ripe fruit, and freshness. The Cuvée Collezione Privata will pair beautifully with dishes featuring earthy or savoury notes—think wild mushroom risotto, braised beef with polenta, or roast duck. Regional cuisine such as frico (a cheese and potato pancake typical of Friuli) or game meats like venison will also highlight the wine’s depth and roundness.

To truly appreciate this wine’s character, serve at 16-18°C in generously sized glasses after half an hour of aeration. This will bring out both its aromatic complexity and the supple, balanced palate that makes Friuli’s reds so distinctive and rewarding.