There are more than 2000 varietals in Italy. Yesterday I was introduced to Terrano, a red grape from Friuli-Venezia Giulia. Other common reds from the region include Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Refosco, which is the most-planted native grape, according to Vino Italiano. (Some other less common ones include Pignolo, Schioppettino, and Tazzelenghe.)
Terrano happens to be a clone of Refosco and is used in the Carso DOC zone within Friuli. The name means earth.
On the nose the wine had dark fruits, some pepper and licorice. The palate showed many of the same characteristics, as well as a spice at the end. The overall wine, however, was more reminiscent of something from the New World instead of from Italy.
Also, given the location of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, which is in the northern region bordering Slovenia, I expected the wine to show more acidity and be a little lighter in body than the heavier mouth feel that I was getting.
It was an unexpected result, but I’m glad I was able to try it. The wine store where I work part-time carries Castello di Rubbia Terrano. I have hesitated pointing out the wine to customers because I was unfamiliar with it. After tasting it, I may still refrain from pushing it. However, when someone enters the store and explains his or her preference, there’s a possibility that the Terrano will suit.
My Terrano experience leads back to the concept of preference. Everyone’s palate is different, and there’s no right or wrong when tasting a wine and deciding what you like and dislike.
The more willing we are to try new things – whether it be wine, food or opportunities in life that confront us – we learn more about ourselves. As in the case with my Terrano tasting, we may be disappointed by what we discover. But something we least expect to enjoy might turn out to be what was missing all along.
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