The delightful 2012 Friuli Colli Orientali Ribolla Gialla is a big white wine at an attractive price. Fruit is dry farmed and cold soaked for 24 hours on the skins after destemming. Fermentation is executed with ambient yeast. This artisanal approach has shaped a compelling and sophisticated wine that could stand up to white meat or fried zucchini flowers. The bouquet opens to candied fruit, lemon curd, dried apricot and pressed rose. The mouth-feel is fresh, streamlined and framed by delicate mineral shadings. Drink: 2014-2017. Founded by Paolo and Dina Rapuzzi, Ronchi di Cialla is an under-the-radar estate that had played an important role in affirming the territorial identity of Albana in the township of Prepotto. Specifically, their contribution has been the revival of almost-extinct indigenous grapes. When they started working with Schioppettino (also known as Ribolla Nera) in the early 1970’s, less than 100 vines of the grapes existed. The estate follows natural and organic winemaking functions with ambient yeasts and slow, steady macerations (for whites and reds alike). These are fascinating, inspiring wines. Importer: Soilair Selection, www.soilairselection.com