by InTrieste
Interview: FVG governor, Massimiliano Fedriga
In a celebration of culinary craft skills and regional identity, Friuli Venezia Giulia Governor Massimiliano Fedriga honored six standout food and wine producers from his region during an awards ceremony for the prestigious Best Gourmet guide held Monday in Trieste.
Standing beneath the elegant vaults of the awards venue in the heart of the Alpe Adria region, Fedriga praised the area’s rich gastronomic traditions, calling them “a unique blend of flavors, cultures, and heritage” that is drawing growing numbers of visitors from across Europe and beyond.
The six honorees — Frattina of Pravisdomini, vintner Enzo Pontoni of Buttrio, the Gortani family of Santa Maria la Longa, the Zanutta family of Carlino, Emanuela and Michela Scarello of Godia, and the Uanetto family of Mortegliano — were recognized for their excellence and innovation in food and wine production.
“These are not just producers, they are ambassadors of our land,” Fedriga said, underscoring how food and wine are becoming key drivers of the local economy. “There’s a growing awareness that the food and wine sector can generate significant economic benefits.”
The Governor also highlighted recent efforts to unify regional branding under the “Io sono FVG” (I am Friuli Venezia Giulia) campaign. The initiative aims to give producers across the region a strong, cohesive identity that speaks directly to consumers and tourists alike.
“It’s a clear and focused message that amplifies the stories of our local businesses,” Fedriga said. “They are a source of pride for our entire region.”
The awards, given as part of the Best Gourmet guide’s annual edition, spotlight excellence in the Alpe Adria culinary corridor — a crossroads of Italian, Austrian, and Slovenian flavors. And this year, Friuli Venezia Giulia stood out as a region where tradition and innovation continue to thrive on the plate and in the glass.
