Which international red varietal is most notably grown in Friuli?

The most notably grown international red varietal in Friuli is Merlot. This region, renowned for its climate and diverse soils, has become particularly favorable for Merlot, allowing it to develop complex flavors and aromatics. The warm days and cool nights in Friuli help to balance the grape's natural sugars with acidity, resulting in wines that are rich and well-structured.

While other international varietals like Cabernet Franc, Syrah, and Malbec may also be cultivated in Friuli, none achieve the same prominence or recognition as Merlot. The widespread planting and success of Merlot in the region have led to it being synonymous with Friuli's red wine production. In addition, Friuli's winemakers have honed their skills with Merlot, consistently producing high-quality wines that capture the essence of the terroir.