What kind of wine is Friuli Colli Orientali Schioppettino DOC “Rinera” 2022 - Ronchi di Cialla?

The Friuli Colli Orientali Schioppettino DOC “Rinera” 2022 - Ronchi di Cialla is an elegant red wine deeply rooted in its native territory. It is made from Schioppettino, an indigenous Friulian grape variety rediscovered and promoted thanks to the dedication of the Rapuzzi family, founders of Ronchi di Cialla. This label represents the most immediate and fresh version of the grape, a red wine with a spicy aroma and a lively palate, yet endowed with great personality.

Within the Friuli Colli Orientali Controlled Designation of Origin, the “Rinera” best interprets the hilly vocation of the territory: marl soils and an ideal microclimate that impart aromatic finesse, balance, and a natural drinking elegance to the wines.

Vintage details

The 2022 vintage was characterized by regular climatic conditions, with a warm summer balanced by cool nights, perfect for preserving the typical varietal aromas of Schioppettino. The harvest, which took place between late September and early October, allowed for the collection of healthy and mature grapes, capable of yielding a wine with a clean and harmonious profile, with delicate tannins and good freshness.

Winemaking and aging

The production of Friuli Colli Orientali Schioppettino DOC “Rinera” 2022 adheres strictly to Friulian tradition. After fermentation in stainless steel at controlled temperatures, which helps maintain the integrity of the varietal aromas, the wine remains in contact with the skins for a brief but sufficient maceration period to extract color and spicy aromas. The aging also takes place in stainless steel, a choice that favors the wine's fragrance and drinkability, resulting in a more immediate and versatile Schioppettino, ready to be enjoyed.

Tasting Notes

The Friuli Colli Orientali Schioppettino DOC “Rinera” 2022 - Ronchi di Cialla stands out for its expressive purity and its ability to showcase the grape variety in a modern and accessible way, without losing depth or typicality.

Colour

It displays a brilliant ruby red with purplish reflections, a sign of youth and vitality. The clarity and chromatic intensity anticipate a rich and inviting aromatic profile.

Nose

The bouquet is characterized by floral and spicy notes: black pepper, violet, wild berries, and subtle hints of aromatic herbs. The overall impression is fine, lively, and perfectly recognizable as Schioppettino, a grape variety renowned for its unmistakable spiciness.

Palate

On the palate, it is harmonious and smooth, with a medium body and an ideal balance between acidity and tannin. The latter are present but polished, offering a sensation of softness and freshness. The finish is clean, with a delicate peppery note that invites a second sip. The aromatic persistence is elegant and never overpowering, ideal for those seeking a red wine with character that is easy to appreciate.

Food Pairings with Friuli Colli Orientali Schioppettino DOC “Rinera” 2022 - Ronchi di Cialla

The versatility of “Rinera” makes it perfect for accompanying both traditional Friulian dishes and everyday Italian recipes. Here are some suggested pairings:

• Typical cured meats such as San Daniele ham or Friulian salami
• Fresh pasta with white ragù or mushroom sauce
• Roasted or grilled white meats
• Medium-aged cheeses

Its freshness and spicy profile also make it enjoyable slightly chilled, ideal for convivial dinners and informal occasions.

Storage and Aging: How to store Friuli Colli Orientali Schioppettino DOC “Rinera” 2022 - Ronchi di Cialla

To preserve the freshness and fragrance characteristics of Friuli Colli Orientali Schioppettino DOC “Rinera” 2022 - Ronchi di Cialla, it is recommended to store it in a cool, dark place with constant humidity around 70%, preferably horizontally to keep the cork moist.

The ideal serving temperature is approximately 16-18°C. Although designed to be enjoyed young, the wine can still evolve positively for a few years, developing greater aromatic complexity and roundness on the palate. The “Rinera” is therefore a red wine to discover today, but also to savor over time, to fully appreciate its natural evolution.