Ronchi di Cialla Ribolla Nera 2016

Ribolla Nera, also known as Schioppettino, is a delicious, versatile red varietal native to the hills of Friuli in northeastern Italy. The great Ronchi di Cialla estate is the varietal’s single most ardent champion. Their Ribolla Nera is a textbook rendering of the grape, showing a translucent cherry skin color followed by fascinating expressions of Szechuan peppercorns, wild blueberries, violets, bitter herbs, and sandalwood. Suggestions of shiitake mushrooms transition the wine from its peppery bouquet to its lip-smacking, savory palate. Fine tannins and enlivening acidity sneak in mid-palate to propel the Ribolla’s complex notes of tamari, green peppercorns, and hoisin sauce. Truly original and versatile at the table, the wine’s delicious spectrum of aromas and flavors positions it admirably for pairing with Asian cuisines. It will also work well with pizza, flank steak, and grilled Portobello mushrooms. Enjoy now and over the coming three years.