Grape Variety
Pignolo
“The Resurrection Grape”
Pignolo is a red wine grape grown in Rosazzo, Colli Orientali, Friuli — known as “the Resurrection Grape”.
Pignolo at a glance
| Color | Red |
|---|---|
| Signature flavors | Blackberry, Black Cherry, Tar, Licorice, Leather, Dried Herbs, Chocolate, Spice |
| Classic pairings | Braised beef, Aged hard cheeses, Game meats, Wild boar |
| Where it grows | Rosazzo, Colli Orientali, Friuli |
The Story
Pignolo was nearly extinct by 1970—maybe 1 hectare survived. Girolamo Dorigo led the revival. Today, it's Friuli's answer to Barolo: massive tannins, decades of aging potential, and cult status among Italian wine collectors.
Insider Story
Pignolo needs 10+ years to show its best.
The tannins are Nebbiolo-level—patience required.
Rosazzo is the spiritual home.
Technical Deep Dive
Full-bodied, tannic red.
Needs 10-20 years cellaring.
Tar, licorice, dark fruit profile.
Industry Secrets
Pignolo is Italy's most undervalued age-worthy red.
Prices are rising as collectors discover it.
Collector’s Corner
Investment grade B+- Auction records
- Aged bottles fetch €100-200
- Blue-chip producers
- ["Le Due Terre","Moschioni","Dorigo","Specogna"]
- Value picks
- Young Pignolo ($40-60)—age yourself
- Price trend
- Rising 15%+ annually. Discovery phase.
- Collector’s tip
- Buy young, age 15+ years. Rivals aged Barolo.
Updated March 2026
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