RONCHI DI CIALLA PICOLIT CIALLA 2015 500ML

Style: Sweet & Luscious

Ronchi di Cialla was born in 1970 when Paolo and Dina Rapuzzi opted for a lifestyle change away from the corporate life. Arriving at their new purchase, Paolo starts to research the wine and varieties of the area. Having read several historical texts he notices the frequent mention of Schioppettino. After asking around he realises that his area contains the only remaining stands of the variety, maybe 30 rows maximum and now only grown out of respect for the history.

At the same time he also quickly notices that the variety isn't even registered with the Department of Agriculture and should he make a monovarietal wine from it, he risks jail. Clearly it is a serious business in Italy! Undeterred, he pushes on selecting and planting 3500 vines in an illegal vineyard to make an illegal wine! From here, the rest is history and apart from an earthquake destroying their winery in 1976 their unique bottlings spur others to plant it and Schioppettino is now regarded as one of Italy's most significant northern varieties. Only in Italy!! MICHAEL MCNAMARA

Half of the grapes are late harvested at the end of October with more or less consistent development of the Noble Rot and the other half is left to dry on the vine. Spontaneous fermentation of the must in French oak barrels and subsequent maturation in the same barrels for at least 20 months. Additional 24 months of ageing in bottle. Suitable for very long ageing and particular vintages can age over 40 years. RONCHI DI CIALLA

Region: Friuli, ITALY

Variety: PIcolit

ABV: 15%

Liquor Act 2007. It is against the law to sell or supply alcohol to, or to obtain alcohol on behalf of a person under the age of 18 years. Lic No. LIQP770016424

*We endeavour to ensure the correct vintage is displayed, however some variations may occur in store and for delivered bottles.