Ribolla Gialla 2010

750ml

Overview

The Gravner Ribolla Gialla 2010 is a remarkable expression of this indigenous Italian grape from the Friuli Venezia Giulia region. Crafted under the expertise of Josko Gravner, the wine is made using traditional, natural winemaking methods. It is fermented in large terracotta amphorae, a technique that imparts depth, texture, and a unique character to the wine. Known for its minimal intervention, this wine captures the essence of the Ribolla Gialla grape, offering a wine of complexity, richness, and authenticity.

Vinification and Aging

• Fermentation: Hand-harvested grapes are fermented spontaneously using native yeasts, without temperature control. The fermentation takes place in large terracotta amphorae, where the wine is left to ferment with its skins for around 30-40 days, allowing for a deep extraction of color, tannins, and flavors.
• Maceration: The wine undergoes extended skin contact, which is a hallmark of the style, contributing to its orange hue and distinctive texture. This maceration helps in extracting tannins and enhancing the wine's complexity.
• Aging: The Ribolla Gialla 2010 is aged for several years in terracotta amphorae, allowing for slow maturation and minimal oxidation. The wine is not filtered and undergoes minimal intervention, allowing the natural expression of the grape and the winemaking techniques to shine through.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: The wine presents a brilliant amber color, a direct result of its extended skin contact. The hue is deep and vibrant, with a clear, well-defined appearance.
• Aroma: The nose is rich and complex, showcasing notes of dried apricot, orange zest, and honey, intertwined with floral aromas of chamomile and acacia. There’s a subtle herbal character, along with earthy undertones of wet stone and a slight oxidation that adds to the wine's depth. The aromas are evolving, with layers of nutty and balsamic nuances emerging as the wine opens up.
• Palate: On the palate, the Ribolla Gialla 2010 is full-bodied and textured, offering a rich mouthfeel with a slight tannic grip. Flavors of dried fruits, almonds, and honey are complemented by a refreshing minerality. The wine maintains a good balance between its structured tannins and lively acidity, contributing to its complexity and length. The earthy, savory elements add a layer of depth, making the wine feel multidimensional and layered.
• Finish: The finish is long and persistent, with lingering flavors of dried fruit, herbs, and a touch of minerality. The wine's oxidative notes remain subtle, adding to the wine's complexity and creating a lasting impression on the palate.

Food Pairing

The Gravner Ribolla Gialla 2010 pairs excellently with hearty and flavorful dishes. It complements roasted meats, especially duck, game birds, and braised meats. It also works well with aged cheeses like Pecorino or Parmigiano Reggiano. The wine’s savory character and texture also make it a great match for rich pasta dishes, such as truffle pasta, risottos, or mushroom-based recipes. Additionally, grilled vegetables, seafood, and Mediterranean cuisine are perfect companions for this wine.

Serving Recommendations

• Serving Temperature: Serve at 14-16°C (57-61°F) to allow the wine to open up and reveal its complexity.
• Glassware: Use a large, tulip-shaped glass to help the wine express its full aromatic potential and allow it to breathe.

Aging Potential

This wine has excellent aging potential and will continue to evolve gracefully for many years. It is expected to age well for at least 10-15 years, with its complexity deepening and the oxidative notes integrating further. Over time, the wine will likely develop more earthy and nutty flavors, while the fruit elements will soften, offering a more harmonious and refined character.