Picolit

Picolit is a white Italian wine grape variety that is grown in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region of northeast Italy. The grape has a long history in the region and was first mentioned in documents dating back to the 18th century. Picolit is known for its sweet dessert wines, which are often characterized by their rich flavors of honey and dried fruit.

History

The first documented mention of Picolit dates back to the 18th century, when it was praised for its high quality and sweet flavor. The grape was traditionally used to produce sweet dessert wines, which were highly valued and often reserved for the nobility. Despite its historical significance, Picolit nearly became extinct in the 20th century due to its low yields and susceptibility to various vine diseases. However, efforts by local winemakers in the late 20th century helped to revive the grape and it is now considered a specialty of the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region.

Viticulture and winemaking

Picolit is a difficult grape to cultivate due to its low yields and susceptibility to botrytis cinerea, a fungal disease that can cause the grapes to rot. However, when properly managed, the grape can produce high-quality dessert wines with a rich, sweet flavor profile. The wines are typically aged in oak barrels to enhance their complexity and depth of flavor.

Wine styles

Picolit wines are typically sweet and full-bodied, with a rich, honeyed flavor profile. They often exhibit notes of dried fruit, such as apricots and raisins, as well as hints of almond and spice. Due to their sweetness, Picolit wines are often served as dessert wines, although they can also be enjoyed on their own or paired with certain types of cheese.

Food pairing

Picolit wines are versatile when it comes to food pairing. They can be served with a variety of desserts, including fruit tarts and pastries. The wines also pair well with blue cheeses, such as Gorgonzola and Roquefort, which complement the wine's sweet, fruity flavors.

See also

• List of Italian grape varieties
• Italian wine
• Friuli-Venezia Giulia