History of the Ribolla Gialla

Among the oldest white grape varieties, the first documentary evidence of Ribolla Gialla dates back to 1299. According to historical sources, this name indicated white wine, not so much a grape variety, which should not surprise us since the documents found, essentially commercial such as duties and transport documents, were related to the product already finished, rather than to its grape. On the other hand, the first official writing in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, bearing the name of a grape variety is quite recent, 1699, and refers to Picolit. Ribolla Gialla has always had good commercial success, so much so that the Republic of Venice imported it, calling it "navigato", that is one of those wines coming from outside the possessions of the Serenissima. Boccaccio also speaks about it, just like wine "stranger" and "sailed" in 1375. The wine also arrived on the tables of the German-speaking peoples, where it took the name of Reinfal.

Production areas

Characterized by a varied climate and complex terrain that change from area to area, Friuli-Venezia Giulia is the region of choice of Ribolla Gialla. These geographical characteristics, together with the hand of man, create the conditions for a quality viticulture, which has made Friulian white wines, in particular Ribolla, among the most loved in Italy, obtaining a place of respect even abroad. Friuli-Venezia Giulia is the easternmost region of Italy located between the Carnic Alps and the Julian Alps to the north, the Adriatic to the south, the Veneto to the west and bordering Austria and Slovenia. Also in the whites of the region declines the history and culture of the frontier of this Italian region. Together with Ribolla, among the most characteristic native white vines of Friuli are Vitovska, Malvasia, Malvasia Istriana and Friulano. The appellations of Ribolla are Friuli Colli Orientali DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) and Collio Doc.

Characteristics of the Ribolla Gialla

This wine is pretty versatile, so much so that it can also be used as Orange Wine and Spumante. The youngest sparkling Ribolla, straw yellow, is characterized by aromas of aromatic herbs, yellow fruits, mineral memories and good elegance, with a sip consistent with the perceived aromas, savory and pleasing. The Orange Wine version, with an intense golden color and amber, is a totally different wine, with very intense balsamic and spicy flavors, almost tannic and complex. The version of Ribolla Gialla spumantizzata is expressed with beautiful fruity and mineral notes to the nose, savory sip and good drinkability.

Matching with the Ribolla Gialla

The Ribolla Gialla is a perfect companion throughout the meal. Excellent from the aperitif, with cold cuts or Ascoli olives, it can be combined with first and second courses of fish, such as a risotto with scampi or sea bass in salt. The Orange Wine version has a certain potential to match complex dishes, such as white meat or medium-aged cheeses. A sparkling wine from Ribolla, finally, is wonderful with fresh cheeses, with shellfish and vegetable dishes. You just have to experience the many souls of Ribolla Gialla: have fun!