Ramandolo

Ramandolo is an Italian Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG) wine produced in the Friuli Colli Orientali zone of northeastern Italy. It is a sweet, golden-colored dessert wine made exclusively from the Verduzzo Friulano grape variety.

Characteristics:

Ramandolo wines are characterized by their intense aromas of honey, apricot, almond, and candied citrus fruits. They typically possess a rich, full-bodied texture with balanced sweetness and acidity. The aging process often imparts more complex notes of dried fruit and spice.

Production:

The Verduzzo Friulano grapes used for Ramandolo are often harvested late in the season and allowed to partially dry on the vine (a process known as appassimento) or after harvest to concentrate the sugars and flavors. This practice contributes to the wine's characteristic sweetness and intensity. The wine must meet specific requirements related to grape yield, alcohol content, and aging.

Regulations:

The DOCG regulations for Ramandolo stipulate that it must be made from 100% Verduzzo Friulano grapes grown within the designated production area. The wine must also adhere to strict standards regarding alcohol content, residual sugar, and aging requirements before it can be released for sale.

Serving Suggestions:

Ramandolo is typically served chilled as a dessert wine, pairing well with pastries, biscotti, aged cheeses, or fruit tarts. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a contemplative after-dinner drink.