What kind of wine is Colli Orientali del Friuli Verduzzo Sottozona Cialla DOC “Verduzzo di Cialla” 2020 - Ronchi di Cialla

The Colli Orientali del Friuli Verduzzo Sottozona Cialla DOC “Verduzzo di Cialla” 2020 - Ronchi di Cialla is a white wine with a unique character, born from the historic Friulian variety Verduzzo Friulano. It originates in the hilly area of Cialla, one of the most suitable subzones of the Colli Orientali, where the cool and ventilated climate and soils rich in marl and sandstone give the wines great freshness, structure, and a subtle mineral imprint. This Verduzzo stands out for its balance between sweetness and liveliness: it is an enveloping yet not cloying white wine, soft, fragrant, and pleasantly persistent.

Vintage details

The 2020 vintage in the Colli Orientali del Friuli was characterized by a regular spring and a balanced summer, with warm and ventilated days and cool nights. These conditions allowed for optimal ripening of the Verduzzo, concentrating aromas and flavors without sacrificing freshness. The harvest took place in September, with healthy, intact, and perfectly ripe grapes.

Vinification and aging

The Verduzzo grapes are vinified in purity. After soft pressing, the must ferments in oak barriques, where it then remains for about eleven months for aging on the lees, which enriches the wine with complex nuances and greater roundness on the palate. Subsequently, the wine continues its evolution in the bottle for one year, thus achieving harmony between aromas, structure, and freshness.

Tasting notes

Color

To the eye, the Verduzzo di Cialla 2020 presents a luminous golden yellow color with amber reflections, typical of the more mature versions of the grape variety.

Nose

On the nose, it releases intense aromas of acacia honey, ripe yellow fruit, and wildflowers, accompanied by delicate notes of vanilla and sweet wood derived from its time in barrique. The bouquet is harmonious and inviting, with a mineral trail that balances its sweetness.

Palate

On the palate, it is velvety and enveloping, with a perfect balance between softness and freshness. The natural sweetness of Verduzzo is supported by a lively acidity and a subtle saline trace that makes the drinking experience pleasant and dynamic. The finish is persistent and clean, with echoes of dried fruit and honey.

What dishes to pair with Colli Orientali del Friuli Verduzzo Sottozona Cialla DOC “Verduzzo di Cialla” 2020 - Ronchi di Cialla

Thanks to its balanced structure and complex aromatic profile, this wine is extremely versatile in pairings:

• It pairs magnificently with blue cheeses or aged cheeses, such as gorgonzola or aged Montasio.
• Perfect with crustacean-based dishes or preparations with intense flavors such as seafood risottos.
• Also excellent with dry pastries or desserts that are not too sweet, where its balanced sweetness finds full harmony.

It is the ideal choice for those who desire a white wine different from the usual, capable of surprising with its balance and personality.

Storage and aging

How to store Colli Orientali del Friuli Verduzzo Sottozona Cialla DOC “Verduzzo di Cialla” 2020 - Ronchi di Cialla

The Verduzzo di Cialla is a delicate wine that must be stored carefully to preserve its freshness and aromatic profile. It is recommended to keep it in a cool environment free of temperature fluctuations, with a constant temperature between 12 and 14 °C, away from direct light and in a horizontal position. Although it can evolve well for a few years, it is preferable to consume it within 2-3 years of the vintage to best appreciate its liveliness and aromatic complexity. Perfect for uncorking on convivial occasions or to accompany fine Friulian and Italian cuisine.