White wines are where it’s at for Friuli. Considered by many wine experts to be the best whites of the country, these are wines that start from an elevated level of sophistication. Yields are low, farming is difficult in the best regions, and thus the prices tend to be higher.
More links to learn about these varieites
Guild Somm: The White Wines of Friuli (excellent article)
Wine Searcher: Sauvignon Blanc
VinePair: These regions are redefining what Sauvignon Blanc can be
Wine Searcher: Pinot Grigio
Decanter: 13 Friuli Pinot Grigio to try (note: this is out of date, but the list of producers and wines is solid … seek out current vintages)
Wine Searcher: Ribolla Gialla
Palm and Vine: Ribolla Gialla – A Rare Italian Variety That’s a Glass of Sunshine
Wine Searcher: Friulano
NY times (possible paywall): Friulano, a Italian Wine That Makes Friends Easily
“When I was in Friuli last month, I drank friulano like it was my birthright. If a region can have a house wine, it’s friulano. It’s what you will find on tables by the glass, sometimes for as little as 1 euro, or about $1.40. It’s the first choice in homes and restaurants. But it is being overshadowed on the international market by the region’s better-known white wines like pinot grigio. Even the local winemakers are starting to pay less attention to it.”
Wine Searcher: Picolit
World of Fine Wine: Picolit – Friuli’s Finest Gem
Wine Scholar Guild: The great ‘super white’ blends of Friuli