Estate: The Ronchi di Pietro estate is located in the Colli Orientali del Friuli region of northeastern Italy, more specifically between the Friulian Alps and the Adriatic Sea, which creates a microclimate that allows for the gradual ripening of the grapes. The father and son team of Franco and Fulvio Zorzettig proudly helm the 75 hectare estate that was founded over 70 years ago by Franco’s father Pietro. The family practices “sustainable growing methods and earth-friendly farming”.

Philosophy: “Put one’s heart and soul into something.”

Winemaking: The vineyards are located on gently rolling hills with an average altitude of 400 meters. Schioppettino grapes were sourced from a single vineyard ‘Ronco Grassi’, with soils rich in minerals. The wine was aged in stainless steel tanks and oak barriques for 8 months.

Notes on the Grape from the Winery: “Ribolla Nera, called Schioppettino in the municipality of Prepotto and surroundings, is definitely a Friulian indigenous grape variety. According to some people, the word Schioppettino would refer to the crackling in the bottle of its sparkling wine, being once bottled while still young it completes malolactic fermentation in the bottle, thus becoming slightly fizzy, while according to others it would relate to the fact that its grapes, fleshy and crunchy, seem to crackle in the mouth when one tries to eat them.”

Tasting Notes: Red-violet in colour with aromas of fresh berries and peppery spices. A light, bright backbone and silky tannins highlight berry flavours [think blackberry, raspberry and strawberry]. Green peppercorn, licorice and hints of fennel pollen linger between each sip. Engaging and versatile, this is fantastic on its own or with a wide variety of dishes.

100% Schioppettino [Ribolla Nera]
Friuli Colli Orientali DOC
Italy
Produced and Bottled by Azienda Agricola Ronchi San Giuseppe di Zorzettig Francesco & Fulvio S.S.A.
13% Alcohol
$22 [average price]
Enjoy now thru 2018