Nonino Cru Monovitigno Picolit is a prized single-grape (monovitigno) grappa poured by the glass at Grappa in Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood. Distilled by the Nonino family from the pomace of the rare Picolit grape, it is one of the most storied grappas Italy produces, a graceful pour we are proud to set before you from our family to your table.
About the Distillery
The Nonino distillery was founded in 1897 in Ronchi di Percoto, in Friuli Venezia Giulia. Picolit holds a special place in the family’s history: on the 1st of December 1973, Benito and Giannola Nonino distilled the pomace of Picolit grapes on its own to create the very first single-varietal grappa, Monovitigno Nonino. That single act revolutionized how grappa is produced, presented and regarded worldwide, and Nonino has remained a standard-bearer for the category ever since.
Style & Production
Picolit is a rare native grape of Friuli, famously difficult to grow and long celebrated as the source of one of Italy’s great dessert wines. Grappa is distilled from pomace, the skins, pulp and seeds left after pressing, rather than from wine itself. Nonino selects fresh Picolit pomace and distills it in artisanal copper steam stills, capturing the delicate, honeyed character that makes this grape so esteemed.
Tasting Notes
The bouquet evokes a honeycomb full of honey, with clear notes of acacia flowers and ripe quince. On the palate it is soft and elegant, layering savory, fruity and floral tones with a classic, refined marc character. The finish is dry and long, unfolding in waves of fruit, a grappa to be savored slowly.
What to Pair It With
A grappa this refined deserves a delicate finish. Pour it with our Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta, a serving of Mama’s Tiramisu, or alongside a Charcuterie Board. Browse the full dine-in menu to complete your evening.
How It’s Served at Grappa
We pour Nonino Cru Monovitigno Picolit neat as a digestif, served at room temperature in a tulip glass so its honeyed aromatics can open fully. It is offered at $30.
FAQ
Where is it from?
It is distilled by the Nonino family in Percoto, in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region of Italy, from the pomace of the rare native Picolit grape.
What does it taste like?
It offers honeyed aromas of acacia flowers and ripe quince, a soft palate blending savory, fruity and floral tones, and a long, dry, fruit-laden finish.
Why is Picolit grappa special?
Picolit is a rare, hard-to-grow Friulian grape, and Nonino’s 1973 single-varietal Picolit grappa launched the modern monovitigno movement, making it a landmark in grappa’s history.
End your evening with a true Italian classic: book a table, explore the cocktail & spirits list, and browse the dine-in menu.
