2013 SCHIOPPETTINO

Michele Moschioni is a master of red varieties in a land made famous by white wine. Moschioni purposely decided on this direction when taking over the reins of his family winery in 1989. Moreover, he chose almost all indigenous varieties, including Schioppettino, Refosco, Tazzelenghe and Pignolo. There’s also Merlot and some Cabernet, which many producers in Friuli consider “indigenous”, as they have a long history in the region. The Moschioni winery is located in Gagliano near Cividale del Friuli and encompasses 12 hectares. Many of these vines are 60 to 80 years old and all farmed with organic practices. This operation strives to be as low-impact as possible with all recycled materials, including the cuttings from the vines that are removed from the vineyard and burned in a biomass boiler that heats the house and winery. In the past, the Moschioni wines were reported to be made using appassimento. However, with the onset of global warming, the winery can now achieve the richness and power they strive for without it. Today, the grapes are harvested and left to rest for only five days before being crushed. Of note, the wines are released between eight to ten years post-vintage. This is also the source of one of the top styles of Pignolo in the territory. Frankly, during my recent trip to Friuli, my tasting with Moschioni was one of the most eye-opening and thoroughly enjoyable.