Pinot Nero Friuli Colli Orientali 2015 – Le Due Terre

The Pinot Nero Friuli Colli Orientali 2015 by Le Due Terre is an exquisite representation of how the Pinot Nero grape, also known globally as Pinot Noir, can articulate the unique terroir of the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region with elegance and depth. This wine encapsulates the harmonious interplay between varietal and terroir, showcasing the meticulous dedication to viticulture and winemaking that characterizes the Le Due Terre estate. The 2015 vintage stands as a testament to the potential of the region and the varietal, offering a complex, nuanced experience that transcends the ordinary.

Located in the esteemed Colli Orientali del Friuli wine region, known for its ideal microclimate and diverse soil composition, Le Due Terre benefits from a setting where Pinot Nero vines thrive. The region’s unique climatic conditions, marked by cool Alpine breezes and warm Adriatic influences, along with its marl and sandstone soils, contribute to the development of grapes with concentrated flavors and a fine balance of acidity and sugar. The 2015 vintage was particularly favorable, characterized by a growing season that allowed for the optimal ripening of grapes, yielding fruit of exceptional quality and depth.

Le Due Terre approaches winemaking with an ethos that emphasizes minimal intervention and a deep respect for natural processes. The estate practices organic viticulture, ensuring that the health of the vineyard and the surrounding ecosystem is preserved. The Pinot Nero grapes for the 2015 vintage were carefully handpicked, selecting only the best fruit that embodies the varietal’s character and the terroir’s expressiveness. This meticulous attention to detail extends to the winery, where traditional winemaking techniques are employed to allow the grapes’ intrinsic qualities to shine.

The fermentation of the 2015 Pinot Nero was carried out with indigenous yeasts, a testament to the winery’s commitment to natural winemaking and the expression of authentic terroir-driven flavors. Aging in French oak barrels was judiciously managed, adding layers of complexity and texture to the wine without overwhelming its delicate varietal nuances. The result is a wine that is both sophisticated and harmoniously integrated, reflecting the estate’s artisanal approach to winemaking.

In the glass, the Pinot Nero Friuli Colli Orientali 2015 presents a radiant ruby color, inviting the taster into a world of aromatic and flavorful complexity. The nose is greeted with an array of red and dark fruits, including cherries, raspberries, and a hint of plum, interwoven with delicate floral notes and a subtle earthiness that speaks to the Pinot Nero’s layered profile. The influence of oak aging is evident in the gentle whispers of vanilla and spice that complement the fruit’s natural vibrancy.

On the palate, the wine unfolds with elegance and precision. The medium-bodied texture is silky and enveloping, with a perfect balance between the bright acidity and the soft, ripe tannins that give the wine its structure and longevity. The flavors mirror the aromatic complexity, with the fruit and earthy notes being enriched by a nuanced, lingering finish that invites contemplation and appreciation.

The Pinot Nero Friuli Colli Orientali 2015 by Le Due Terre is more than a mere representation of the varietal; it is a narrative of place, a celebration of the unique conditions of Friuli-Venezia Giulia that allow Pinot Nero to express itself in such a distinctive and memorable fashion. It is a wine that pairs beautifully with a wide range of culinary experiences, from delicate fish dishes to hearty meats, showcasing its versatility and depth. This vintage not only underscores Le Due Terre’s prowess in crafting exceptional wines but also affirms the Pinot Nero’s esteemed place within the pantheon of great Italian wines, offering a testament to the beauty, complexity, and elegance that the varietal can achieve in the hands of skilled vintners.