What kind of wine is Colli Orientali del Friuli Sottozona Cialla 'Schioppettino di Cialla' DOC 2018 - Ronchi di Cialla

The Colli Orientali del Friuli Sottozona Cialla 'Schioppettino di Cialla' DOC 2018 - Ronchi di Cialla is an excellent example of the rebirth of one of Friuli's most fascinating indigenous grape varieties: Schioppettino. Grown exclusively in the small Cialla valley, in the heart of the Colli Orientali del Friuli, this red wine stands out for its complexity, elegance, and longevity. It is a full-bodied, dynamic, and refined red, capable of combining freshness and depth, with a soft and velvety drinkability that captivates sip after sip.

Vintage details

The 2018 vintage was characterized by a balanced climate, with well-distributed rainfall and optimal temperatures during the grape ripening phase. This favored excellent aromatic concentration and perfect tannic maturation. The Schioppettino di Cialla harvest was carried out by hand, selecting the best bunches, to maintain the intact quality and authentic expression of the territory.

Winemaking and aging

After the harvest, the must ferments at a controlled temperature with a long maceration on the skins, useful for extracting aromas, color, and structure. Aging continues in oak barriques for a period of between 14 and 18 months, where the wine acquires spicy notes and roundness on the palate. This is followed by a further 30-36 months in the bottle, a phase that refines its aromas and harmonizes its taste, creating a Schioppettino di Cialla of rare elegance and complexity.

Tasting notes

Color

Visually, the Colli Orientali del Friuli Sottozona Cialla 'Schioppettino di Cialla' DOC 2018 - Ronchi di Cialla presents an intense and deep ruby red, with violet reflections typical of the grape variety, a sign of youth and vitality.

Nose

The nose is refined and complex: aromas of ripe red fruits such as blackberry and black cherry emerge, followed by delicate notes of black pepper, sweet spices, and a balsamic hint. Evolution in the glass reveals elegant nuances of vanilla and cocoa, the result of wood aging.

Taste

In the mouth, it is harmonious and structured, with dense but silky tannins, and excellent freshness that balances the softness of the sip. The persistence is long and enveloping, with a spicy and slightly peppery finish, characteristic of Schioppettino di Cialla.

What dishes to pair with Colli Orientali del Friuli Sottozona Cialla 'Schioppettino di Cialla' DOC 2018 - Ronchi di Cialla

This wine pairs perfectly with rich and flavorful dishes, which enhance its aromatic depth and structure:

• Grilled or braised red meats
• Game and roasted game
• Aged and strong-flavored cheeses
• Typical Friulian dishes based on mushrooms or spices

It is also ideal to enjoy during moments of reflection or conversation, as a meditation wine that tells the story of the Friulian territory in every sip.

Storage and aging: how to store Colli Orientali del Friuli Sottozona Cialla 'Schioppettino di Cialla' DOC 2018 - Ronchi di Cialla wine

To preserve its characteristics, store this wine in a cool, dark place, with a constant temperature between 12 and 16°C and the bottle in a horizontal position to keep the cork moist. The Schioppettino di Cialla 2018 has a remarkable aging potential: it can evolve in the bottle for over 15 years, developing further olfactory complexity and softness on the palate. Over time, it will reveal new aromatic nuances, making each tasting a unique and ever-changing experience.