Il Roncal - Ribolla Gialla DOC Friuli Colli Orientali 2018
Pairing Suggestions
Il Roncal makes high-quality wines from local grape varieties such as Friulano Schioppettino, Refosco and Ribolla Gialla. This last variety is an old native Friulian grape variety, almost exclusively grown on hilly areas, where it produces the best results.
The grapes are removed from the stalk, crushed and immediately subjected to a temperature reduction to 14 degrees. With soft pressing, the must is separated from the skin followed by a natural cold fermentation which takes place in steel tanks at a controlled temperature. The wine stays in a steel tank until April when it is bottled. This is followed by aging in the bottle.
My tasting notes:
In the glass a bright golden yellow color.
On the medium nose aromas of pear, apple and flowers with hints of yeast and cinnamon.
On the palate dry, medium bodied with medium+ acidity and nice freshness. Round flavours of white fruit and flowers with nice almond notes in the finish.
Ideal as an aperitif, with starters of raw fish, or with sauces, with soups and creams.
About the winery:
Il Roncalis a small estate of 20 hectares located in Cividale del Friuli (UNESCO site). Here Martina Moreale carries on the project of her husband Roberto, founder of the winery. In Friulan language the name "Roncal" means terraced estate on a hill; in fact, the "ronchi" are the hillsides commanding this striking landscape.
The slopes of the vineyards, surrounding the Montebello hill, are vavored by an excellent exposure and the sandstone/marl soil are ideal for growing grapes. Directly next to the wine cellar there is an antique residence which has recently been renovated and typically furnished. The ten rooms are equipped with all the amenities one can think of and are named after the regional grape varieties.