2020 Luisa Ribolla Gialla, Friuli-Venezia Giulia

Ribolla Gialla is known as the flagship wine of Friuli Venezia Giulia, together with Friulano. The origin of the Ribolla Gialla variety is uncertain; experts identify the ancestor of the Ribolla grape as the “Avola”, a vine introduced by the Romans during their occupation of Friuli. It is also suggested that this grape variety coincides with the “Robola ” cultivar grown in Kefalonia, which arrived in Friuli perhaps at the time of the Serenissima republic, when the influences of the Venetian traders reached the Eastern Mediterranean shores. Most scholars consider, however, the variety to be native to Friuli. The earliest records date back to th e twelfth century: at that time the locals particularly appreciated the elegant fine wines of “Rabiola” Collio.

The 2018 Luisa Ribolla Gialla is straw yellow in colour with greenish tints. It has a distinctly dry, slightly citrus flavour. On the nose it reveals a pleasant and delicate bouquet with floral notes of acacia blossoms. It is a wonderful aperitif wine, matching well with seafood such as delicate white fish, oysters and shellfish.