Tazzelenghe

Tazzelenghe is a red Italian grape mainly cultivated in Friuli-Venezia Giulia in northern Italy. Not much is known about its origin, but the grape was commonly planted until phylloxera hit the region. Although it was on the verge of extinction, it was brought back from obscurity in the 1980s, when it was reintroduced as an exciting local variety.

Most plantings are found in Udine, which is also the home of Colli Orientali del Friuli Tazzelenghe DOC appellation. Tazzelenghe produces slightly rustic red wines known for high acidity and tannins. When young, the wines have a dark, almost purple color that dims with age.

The aroma is intense, reminiscent of cherries, red currants, and tobacco. These wines are full-bodied and high in acidity but require some time in oak. As they age, they soften and become more approachable and usually attain spicy and woody aromas. Interestingly, the name of the variety stems from local dialect—tàce-lenghe or tongue-cutter—which probably refers to the powerful tannins and puckering acidity.

These age-worthy wines are best paired with local meat specialties. The wines go exceptionally well with roasted and grilled red meat, stews, game, and aged cheese.