Grape Variety
Schioppettino
“The Pepper Bomb”
Schioppettino is a red wine grape grown in Prepotto, Colli Orientali, Friuli — known as “the Pepper Bomb of Friuli”.
Schioppettino at a glance
| Color | Red |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Ribolla Nera, Pocalza |
| Signature flavors | Black Pepper, Violet, Wild Berries, Plum, Spice, Herbs, Forest Floor, Smoke |
| Classic pairings | Frico, Montasio cheese, Game birds, Hearty stews, Pepper-crusted meats |
| Where it grows | Prepotto, Colli Orientali, Friuli |
The Story
Schioppettino nearly died out in the 1970s—only a few old vines in Prepotto survived. The revival created a cult: the grape produces intensely peppery reds unlike anything else. The name means 'little explosion'—referencing the sparkle traditional versions had.
Insider Story
Schioppettino from Prepotto fetches €50-100+ per bottle.
The pepper intensity rivals Syrah.
Mielke, Petrussa, and Meroi lead the cult.
Technical Deep Dive
Medium-bodied red with signature pepper.
High rotundone (pepper compound) levels.
Ages 10-15 years in top vintages.
Industry Secrets
Schioppettino is Friuli's most expensive indigenous red.
Demand exceeds supply—waitlists are common.
Collector’s Corner
Investment grade B- Auction records
- Top bottles fetch €80-150
- Blue-chip producers
- ["Ronchi di Cialla","Petrussa","Meroi","Davide Moschioni"]
- Value picks
- Entry Prepotto Schioppettino ($35-50)
- Price trend
- Rising 10-15% annually. Cult status.
- Collector’s tip
- Ronchi di Cialla is the historic benchmark. Age 5-10 years.
Updated March 2026
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