Ronchi di Cialla / Ribolla Gialla - 750ml, 2020

The Anselmi family produces this extremely good-value Pinot Grigio from estate vines in the Friuli region of northeastern Italy. Known for white wines with intense aromatic expression, Friuli is a region that typically produces higher end wines. The Ca Stele Pinot Grigio has enticing aromas of lemon zest and green apple, with crisp acidity. It’s the perfect accompaniment to an outdoor gathering and the screw cap closure makes in convenient for throwing in the cooler.

Ronchi di Cialla Friulano

The Tunella Pinot Grigio opens with bright mineral tones and a hint of dried spice. There’s a generous fruity and fragrant nose that evokes aromas of warm bread crust and intense perfume of acacia blossom and ripe tropical fruit. The palate echoes the nose and is elegant, full-bodied with moderately acidity and delicate hints of yeast.

Bright and aromatic, this wine exhibits dark cherries and raspberries alongside hints of blue flowers and dried herbs. On the palate, it is silky and well-textured, revealing layers of ripe berry fruit and a gentle touch of spice. This Pinot Nero offers impressive versatility at the table and the wine’s bright acidity and subtle herbal notes complement savory foods, while its smooth texture and fruit-forward character bring balance to the bold flavors. It is vivid and focused, with a medium body and a polished yet taut tannin structure. The finish is dusty and fresh.

Northern Italy may not be the first place that comes to mind when it comes to Sauvignon Blanc, but it’s been cultivated in regions like Friuli and Alto-Adige since the late 19th century with great success. In fact, Sauvignon played a decisive part in the revival of Italian wine in the mid-1980s. This wine shows an intense nose that's never cloying with subtle notes of tomato leaf, pepper, sage, mown grass, nettle, and spice box. There are hints of yellow and even tropical fruit. The taste is fresh and mineral and does not disappoint expectations. A superb example of Italian Sauvignon Blanc.