Wine Tourism in Collio
Wine Tourism in Collio: destination information, how to move in Collio wine region, Top Wine Experiences, Itineraries and tours, tips and secrets.
Collio, a renowned wine region in northeastern Italy, is celebrated for producing some of the country's finest white wines. Situated along the border of Italy and Slovenia, the region is known for its distinct terroir, which gives rise to wines that are both elegant and expressive. Collio wines are deeply tied to the region's culture and history, offering a tasting experience that captures the unique characteristics of this picturesque corner of Friuli Venezia Giulia.
Collio’s rich winemaking tradition is believed to date back to Roman times, and the region has since been influenced by various civilizations, including the Venetians, Austrians, and Slavs. This diverse cultural heritage is reflected in the area's winemaking practices and grape varieties. Collio's wines, particularly its whites like Friulano, Ribolla Gialla, and Malvasia, are known for their freshness, vibrant acidity, and mineral complexity, thanks to the unique “ponca” soil—a blend of marl and sandstone that enhances the grapes' flavor profile.
If you're already familiar with Collio wine, feel free to skip this guide and start your search for Collio wine experiences available on winedering.com.
The Destination: Collio
Nestled in the northeastern corner of Italy, Collio is a region of unparalleled beauty and viticultural prestige. Located along the border of Friuli Venezia Giulia and Slovenia, Collio’s rolling hills, lush vineyards, and idyllic landscapes provide the perfect setting to experience the exceptional white wines for which the area is renowned. With its unique geographical position, Collio enjoys a remarkable blend of Mediterranean and Alpine influences, creating the ideal microclimates for cultivating some of Italy’s most celebrated grape varieties.
The region’s terroir is characterized by the famous “ponca” soil—a mineral-rich mixture of marl and sandstone that gives Collio wines their distinct structure and complexity. Combined with the cooling breezes from the Adriatic Sea and the protective embrace of the Julian Alps, Collio’s vineyards produce wines of incredible freshness, vibrant acidity, and elegant aromatics. Friulano, Ribolla Gialla, and Sauvignon Blanc are just a few of the grape varieties that thrive in this environment, delivering wines with remarkable depth and aging potential.
Collio’s winemaking heritage stretches back to Roman times, and over the centuries, the region has been shaped by a rich cultural tapestry, influenced by Venetians, Austrians, and Slovenes. These historical layers have contributed to the evolution of Collio’s unique wine styles, where tradition meets modern innovation. Designated as a DOC in 1968, Collio remains a symbol of quality and authenticity, with strict regulations that uphold the region’s prestigious reputation in the global wine world.
For centuries, Collio’s wines have been revered not only for their craftsmanship but for their ability to reflect the beauty of the land from which they come. Whether you are savoring a glass of crisp white wine on a sun-soaked terrace or exploring the region’s rich history, Collio offers an unforgettable experience of Italian winemaking excellence and natural splendor.
Grapes Used for Collio Wines DOC
Collio DOC is known for its exceptional white and red wines, crafted from a variety of grapes that thrive in the region's unique terroir. Below are the grape varieties used for Collio DOC wines:
White Grapes (Bacca bianca):
- Chardonnay: A versatile grape producing fresh, structured wines with balanced acidity.
- Gewürztraminer (Traminer Aromatico): Aromatic wines with floral and spicy notes.
- Malvasia Istriana: A native variety offering floral and fruity aromas.
- Müller-Thurgau: Produces light, aromatic wines with crisp acidity.
- Picolit: A rare grape, often used for sweet dessert wines.
- Pinot Bianco: Produces light, refreshing wines with hints of green apple.
- Pinot Grigio: Known for its pale wines with fresh acidity and citrus flavors.
- Ribolla Gialla: Historic grape producing wines with minerality and bright acidity.
- Riesling (Italico): Aromatic wines with citrus and sometimes petrol notes as they age.
- Sauvignon: Known for herbal, citrus, and tropical fruit aromas.
- Tocai Friulano (Friulano): Signature variety of Collio, known for an almond finish and vibrant acidity.
Red Grapes (Bacca nera):
- Cabernet Franc: Earthy, peppery wines with firm tannins.
- Cabernet Sauvignon: Full-bodied wines with blackcurrant flavors.
- Carmènere: Offers spicy, smoky notes in complex red wines.
- Merlot: Soft, fruit-forward wines, often used in blends.
- Pinot Nero (Pinot Noir): Elegant wines with red fruit and earthy tones.
These grape varieties, particularly the white ones, benefit from the region’s "ponca" soil, which contributes to the wines' fresh acidity, minerality, and complexity
How To Reach Collio
Route 1: The Heart of Collio – Gorizia to Cormòns
Begin your journey in Gorizia, a historic town that perfectly blends Italian and Slovenian influences. Explore the medieval Gorizia Castle, offering panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards. From Gorizia, travel north through the rolling hills of Collio, stopping at local wineries known for their exceptional white wines like Friulano and Ribolla Gialla. Head towards Cormòns, the heart of the Collio region, where you’ll find some of the area’s most renowned wineries. Visit local vineyards, indulge in wine tastings, and experience the distinct flavors of wines produced in this unique terroir.
Along the way, explore charming villages such as San Floriano del Collio, where you can enjoy traditional Friulian cuisine paired with Collio wines. This route highlights the region’s winemaking excellence and rich cultural heritage, offering a perfect introduction to Collio DOC wines.
Route 2: Collio’s Western Charm – Oslavia to Dolegna del Collio
Start your tour in the small village of Oslavia, known for its role in producing exquisite orange wines, particularly from Ribolla Gialla grapes. Continue westward to explore the wineries dotted along the hills, each offering a unique perspective on Collio’s wine production. Visit the area around Gradisca d’Isonzo, a town rich in history, where you can experience the strong connection between the land and its winemaking traditions.
Next, travel to Dolegna del Collio, where the vineyards reach higher altitudes, offering stunning views and cooler microclimates that contribute to the production of fresh, aromatic wines. This route provides an intimate look at the diversity of the Collio region, where each winery tells a different story through its wine.
Route 3: The Scenic Route – Collio and Slovenia
For a cross-border adventure, begin in Cormòns and take a scenic drive through the vineyards that stretch across the Italian-Slovenian border. Stop at local wineries on both sides of the border to compare the subtle differences between Italian Collio wines and their Slovenian counterparts from the Brda region. Enjoy the beautiful views of the hills, framed by the Alps and the Adriatic Sea.
Continue to the village of San Lorenzo Isontino, known for its picturesque landscapes and family-run wineries. After crossing into Slovenia, visit the charming town of Dobrovo and sample wines from the Brda region, known for producing wines with a similar terroir to Collio. This route offers a unique cultural experience, blending the rich winemaking traditions of both countries while enjoying breathtaking landscapes.
Whether you’re looking for historic towns, stunning vineyards, or cross-border wine adventures, these routes provide a comprehensive journey through the Collio DOC, showcasing the region’s beauty, history, and world-class wines.
Flights
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Trieste – Friuli Venezia Giulia Airport (TRS): Located about 33 km (20 miles) northwest of Trieste, Friuli Venezia Giulia Airport is the closest major airport to the Collio wine region. The travel time from the airport to Gorizia, a key town in Collio, is approximately 30 minutes by car. Bus and train services are available to connect the airport with the nearby towns, including the wine villages of Collio. This airport serves as a gateway to the Friuli Venezia Giulia region, with frequent connections to major European cities.
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Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE): Situated around 140 km (87 miles) southwest of the Collio region, Venice Marco Polo Airport is one of Italy's largest international airports. Travel time from Venice to the Collio area is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by car. Several transport options, including buses and trains, can take you from Venice to the Collio area, offering a scenic drive through the Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia regions. Venice Airport provides a wide range of international flights, making it a convenient option for visitors coming from abroad.
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Treviso Airport (TSF): Also known as Antonio Canova Airport, Treviso Airport is located about 140 km (87 miles) southwest of the Collio wine region, close to Venice. It serves as a hub for low-cost airlines and is a convenient alternative for travelers heading to Collio. The travel time from Treviso to Collio is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by car, making it a practical option for visitors seeking budget-friendly flights. Public transportation options such as buses and trains are available from Treviso, providing access to the Friuli Venezia Giulia region, including Collio.
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Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU): Located 120 km (75 miles) east of Collio, in Slovenia, Ljubljana’s airport is an alternative for travelers heading to the Collio wine region. The travel time to Collio is around 1.5 hours by car. Direct flights to major European cities make this airport a convenient option for visitors looking to explore both Collio and neighboring Slovenia. Car rentals and shuttle services provide easy access to the region.
Trains
The Collio wine region is well-connected by Italy's efficient train network, making it accessible for travelers looking to explore the area. While there is no direct train service to the small villages of Collio, nearby towns such as Gorizia and Cormòns are easily reachable by train, serving as ideal starting points for your Collio wine tour.
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Reaching Gorizia by Train:Gorizia, one of the main towns in the Collio region, has a well-connected train station served by regional trains. You can reach Gorizia from major cities like Trieste in about 30 minutes, Venice in approximately 2 hours, and Milan in around 4.5 hours. From Gorizia, you can take local buses, taxis, or rent a car to explore the nearby wine villages.
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Reaching Cormòns by Train:Cormòns, a key wine town in Collio, is also accessible by train. The town is connected by regional trains, and the station is located close to the vineyards and wineries. Trains from Trieste to Cormòns take roughly 40 minutes, while the journey from Venice takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Once in Cormòns, you can easily explore the surrounding wineries on foot, by bike, or by renting a car.
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Travel from Major Cities:If you're traveling from further afield, you can take high-speed trains to Venice or Trieste and then transfer to a regional train bound for Gorizia or Cormòns. These train routes provide a comfortable and scenic way to reach the Collio region, allowing you to enjoy the landscape as you approach the heart of Friulian winemaking.
While trains provide convenient access to the larger towns, renting a car is recommended to fully explore the more remote wine villages and vineyards in Collio.
Car / Ncc
To fully explore the Collio wine region and enjoy its stunning landscapes, charming villages, and renowned vineyards, renting a car is highly recommended. Having your own car provides the flexibility to travel at your own pace, allowing you to reach the more secluded wineries and picturesque hilltop towns that are not easily accessible by public transportation. The region’s road network is well-maintained, offering scenic drives through rolling vineyards and historic towns.
For those looking for a more premium experience, private driver services are also available. Many companies offer chauffeured cars, providing a luxurious and stress-free way to explore Collio’s wine routes. This option is ideal for visitors who prefer to sit back and enjoy the breathtaking views or who may want to indulge in wine tastings without worrying about driving.
Whether you choose to rent a car or opt for a private driver, both options allow you to explore the Collio region with ease and comfort, ensuring you make the most of your wine-tasting journey through this beautiful area.
How to visit Collio's wineries
Exploring the wineries of Collio is a truly memorable experience, and there are various transportation options to make your visit both convenient and enjoyable.
Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore Collio, giving you the freedom to visit its scenic vineyards and picturesque towns at your own pace. Car rentals are easily available from nearby airports like Trieste or Venice, making it simple to plan a self-guided tour of the region. It's advisable to book in advance, particularly during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.
For a more relaxed and worry-free experience, you might consider hiring a private driver. This allows you to fully enjoy Collio's wines and landscapes without the need to focus on driving or navigation.
While cycling might seem like a fun and eco-friendly way to explore Collio, it’s generally not the best option for most visitors. The area’s hilly terrain and winding roads can be quite challenging, especially during the hot summer months. To make the most of your time in Collio, motorized transport is usually the better choice.
Taste of Friuli Venezia Giulia from Venice or Padova
For those who prefer not to worry about driving and navigating, this private wine tour offers the perfect solution. Let an expert guide take you through the scenic Friuli Venezia Giulia region, where you can relax and enjoy the journey.
This small yet powerful wine-producing region, nestled between the northern Adriatic Sea, Austria, and Slovenia, is gaining international attention for its aromatic white wines and robust reds. The winemakers of Friuli are known for their innovative techniques, while still honoring the region's rich traditions. You’ll explore the hilly terrains of the Collio and Colli Orientali del Friuli, where some of the best wines in the area are produced.
Your day includes visits to two boutique wineries, where you'll meet the winemakers and enjoy guided tastings of their finest wines. In between, indulge in a traditional lunch at a typical trattoria, all while taking in the stunning countryside views. With pick-up and drop-off services from Venice or Padova, and the expertise of an English-speaking sommelier as your guide, this tour offers a seamless and immersive experience in Friuli Venezia Giulia's wine culture.
Wine & Food in Collio
Historical overview
Collio is one of the most esteemed and renowned wine regions of Italy, known particularly for its exceptional white wines. Located in the northeastern part of the country, along the border with Slovenia, Collio is celebrated for its unique combination of terroir and history, making it a vital part of Italy's viticultural heritage. The region is best known for producing wines from indigenous grapes like Friulano and Ribolla Gialla, as well as international varieties such as Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio. These wines have garnered a reputation for their elegance, complexity, and ability to reflect the unique terroir of the area.
Collio’s soil, known as "ponca," is a distinctive combination of marl and sandstone, rich in minerals that enhance the aromatic and structural qualities of the wines. The region's rolling hills benefit from the cooling breezes of the nearby Adriatic Sea and the protection of the Julian Alps, creating a perfect microclimate for viticulture. This results in wines with a crisp acidity, fresh fruit aromas, and a long mineral finish, making them some of the most sought-after whites in Italy.
While Collio is mainly known for its white wines, it also produces excellent reds, including those made from Refosco and Merlot grapes. The region’s winemaking tradition dates back to Roman times, and over the centuries, it has evolved into a powerhouse for modern Italian winemaking.
In addition to its wines, Collio is also famous for its cross-border connection with Slovenia’s Brda region, sharing a similar viticultural heritage. The Collio area is not only a destination for wine lovers but also for those seeking a rich cultural and gastronomic experience, making it a true gem in the heart of Friuli Venezia Giulia.
Did you know? Collio wine region was significantly affected by border changes during and after World War II. The region, which spans both Italy and Slovenia, was divided after the war by the newly established border between Italy and what was then Yugoslavia. Despite this division, winemakers on both sides continued their craft, and today, the area remains a symbol of shared winemaking traditions. Italian Collio and Slovenian Brda still collaborate closely, with many families and wineries spanning both sides of the border.
This cross-border collaboration, rooted in centuries of shared history, has helped maintain the region's strong winemaking identity despite political changes.
Food pairings
Collio is not only renowned for its exceptional white wines but also as a reflection of Friuli Venezia Giulia’s rich and diverse culinary heritage. The region's cuisine, much like its winemaking tradition, emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with a focus on simplicity and authenticity. The unique microclimate and mineral-rich soil of Collio are mirrored in the robust flavors of the region’s dishes, which are crafted to pair harmoniously with its wines.
From traditional dishes like frico (a savory cheese pancake), prosciutto di San Daniele, and hearty polenta, to more delicate offerings like fresh seafood and risotto alla Friulana, Collio's cuisine showcases a delightful blend of Italian, Slavic, and Austrian influences.
Prosciutto San Daniele
This iconic pairing brings together two of Friuli’s treasures: Friulano wine and Prosciutto di San Daniele. The wine's fresh acidity, almond finish, and mineral notes complement the sweetness and delicate texture of the prosciutto. The combination highlights the salty-sweet contrast, creating a balanced and refined tasting experience.
Risotto alle Erbette
Grilled Scampi
The citrus and herbal aromas of Collio Sauvignon Blanc make it an excellent match for grilled scampi. The wine’s bright acidity cuts through the richness of the scampi, while its herbal notes complement the subtle flavors of the seafood. Together, they create a light, zesty pairing ideal for seafood lovers
Polenta con Funghi
The floral and fruity notes of Malvasia Istriana pair excellently with polenta con funghi (polenta with mushrooms). The earthy richness of the mushrooms is balanced by the bright acidity of the wine, while the polenta provides a soft texture that allows the wine’s fruity and floral flavors to shine.
Fricco
Collio Rosso, a blend of Cabernet and Merlot, with its rich fruit flavors and structured tannins, pairs perfectly with frico, a traditional Friulian cheese pancake. The wine’s bold character contrasts beautifully with the crispy, savory flavors of the frico, creating a mouthwatering combination of flavors and textures.
Gubana
Picolit, a sweet dessert wine from Collio, pairs wonderfully with gubana, a traditional Friulian cake filled with dried fruits, nuts, and spices. The wine’s honeyed sweetness and balanced acidity complement the rich, spiced flavors of the cake, making this a delightful conclusion to any meal.
Top 3 Wine Experiences
Here are our top 3 recommendations for wine experiences in Collio, carefully selected by Winedering, the world’s most popular marketplace for wine and food experiences. These experiences, loved and booked by thousands of customers, offer the perfect way to explore the renowned wines and stunning landscapes of the Collio DOC region:
Relaxed Wine Tasting Experience at Pintar Winery
Discover the winemaker's journey at Pintar Winery, from vineyard to cellar, as you learn about the entire winemaking process, from grape harvest to bottling. This exclusive tasting experience features three autochthonous varieties—Ribolla Gialla, Friulano, and Collio Bianco—alongside five other varietal whites, including Pinot Bianco, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon, Malvasia, and Chardonnay. You will also savor two elegant reds—Merlot and Pinot Noir—and two sparkling wines, Blanc de Blancs and Rosato, all perfectly paired with local cold cuts and cheeses from Friuli Venezia Giulia. This relaxed and immersive tasting offers a deep dive into the flavors and heritage of the region.
Rating: 5/5
Experience type: Vineyard and cellar visit & tasting
Ideal for: couples, friends, families
Wine Tasting and Visit at the Historic Mario Schiopetto Winery in Collio
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Mario Schiopetto Winery, located in a serene valley surrounded by vineyards opposite Spessa Castle in the Collio region. Begin your visit with a tour of the vineyards, learning about the cultivation techniques, followed by an exploration of the winery’s historic rooms, including the iconic "Mario Room." Afterward, enjoy a guided tasting of five signature wines at Osteria "Al Pompiere," just a few meters from the winery. Taste renowned vintages like Mario’s Friulano, Pinot Bianco, and Malvasia Istriana, all while guided by the knowledgeable facility manager.
Experience type: Vineyard and cellar visit & tasting
Ideal for: couples, groups, families
Guided Tasting of Premium Friulian Wines at Borgo San Daniele
Immerse yourself in the world of Friulian winemaking at Borgo San Daniele with a delightful visit to their vineyards and winery. The experience includes the tasting of at least four premium wines, each with its own story that will be shared with you, revealing the secrets behind their flavors. In addition, you'll have the opportunity to taste the winery’s unique vermouth, Santòn, making for a truly immersive and educational experience. Borgo San Daniele offers two tasting options to suit your group’s needs.
Rating: 5/5
Experience type: Vineyard and cellar visit & tasting
Ideal for: Couples, friends, groups
Itineraries and Wine Tours in Collio
If you need some inspiration for your next trip or looking to adjust your current reservations in Friuli Venezia Giulia, check out our top two itineraries recommended by Winedering for the renowned Collio wine region. The Winedering team has meticulously curated these tours to offer an exceptional experience.
Tour #1: Premium Collio Wines Experience from Venice
Escape into the serene landscapes of Friuli with this exclusive day tour that combines relaxation and indulgence. Begin your journey with a tasting of premium wines at Borgo San Daniele and end with another tasting at a winery that combines modernity and traditions. At the end of the tour you will have tasted about 8 wines.
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11 am
Depart from Venice by car or private driver.
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12.15 pm
Take your time to savor the stunning landscapes and, if you wish, enjoy lunch at a traditional Friulian trattoria for an authentic local experience.
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4 pm
Visit the historic Mario Schiopetto winery in the heart of Collio and discover the artistry behind their renowned Friulian white wines. Enjoy a guided tasting of 5-6 signature white wines, with the option to enhance your experience by adding three of their exceptional Collio red wines.
Duration: 1 hour
Return to Venice at 5.30 pm. The ride takes 1,5 h.
Total duration: 6h
Enjoy Wine Experiences in
Collio
With detailed itineraries and insider tips, your adventure through the Collio wine region will be both seamless and enriching.
Remember to take your time, enjoy the stunning views, and soak in the warm hospitality of the local winemakers and residents. Here's to many memorable wine experiences in Collio, that you can easily book online on Winedering.com, the best online wine tourism marketplace worldwide.
Buon viaggio and cheers to an unforgettable Collio adventure!