Producers are happy with 2004. Spring was quite cold and rainy after the blooming phase of the vines. This slowed down all the subsequent vegetative phases. Summer was not very warm, but then the climate of the second half of August and the first 20 days of September was ideal, with optimal temperature range (as it was more than 10° Celsius) between night and day.

Mariano del Friuli (Friuli Isonzo Rive Alte DOC): “…As far as the climate is concerned, it was similar to the late 1980ies. …..Quality of wines is high, natural alcohol is 14%, total acidity content is good (pH from 3 to 3.5-3.6) Correct vineyard management was extremely important. 2004 rewards the terroir. Yield was a bit higher, and the average weight of berries was also higher” (Gianfranco Gallo owner of Vie di Romans). Harvest in this area started on the 20t h of September and was carried out, on and off, till the 14t h of October.