Ronchi di Cialla Ribolla Gialla, 2023

Ronchi di Cialla is a legendary property located in Friuli in the north east of Italy a few miles from the Slovenian border. Founded by Dina and Paolo Rapuzzi in 1970, Ronchi di Cialla has been on the forefront of preserving and understanding the indigenous varieties of Friuli.  Their first mission has to be regarded as an unreserved success elevating the Schioppettino grapes variety from commercial extinction and defacto outlaw status to one of the most highly regarded in the area. The Rapuzzi family has always worked with an eye towards biodiversity and holistic sustainability even beyond their vineyards, fighting to rebuild the Cialla valley surrounding the winery with indigenous trees and plants.  Their strenuous efforts over the decades have resulted in a rare elevation in the world of wine; their land now stands as a legally recognized monopole on the same status as Sassicaia or Chateau Grillet: Friuli Colli Orientali Sottozona Cialla. Long story short (might be a little late for that) these guys rock in all the best ways!

Ribolla Gialla is one of the many indigenous white grapes the Rapuzzi family works with and though it isn't considered the most prestigious or important Friulian white variety it has always been my favorite. This cuvee is drawn from 50 year-old vines planted on limestone rich marl soil.  The grapes are hand harvest, fermented in stainless steel with 1 day of skin contact, and aged briefly in steel before bottling.  Ribolla Gialla from Ronchi di Cialla is always bursting with orchard fruit, mineral notes of spring water and wet stones, and delicate spice notes.  Fresh and acid driven, it is fantastic with seafood, white meat, and all sorts of veggie dishes. - Andy Paynter