91 Monica Larner - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

"The 2011 Colli Orientali del Friuli Sottozona Cialla Ciallabianco is a blend of 60% Ribolla Gialla, 30% Picolit and 10% Verduzzo. The winemaking philosophy is very specific in the case of this wine: Ciallabianco shines the spotlight on three important indigenous grapes that best represent this tiny territory that straddles Italy and Slovenia. The wine opens with a bight golden color and shows oxidized aromas of caramel, butterscotch, candied fruit and dried apricot. Naturally, this opulent style won’t appeal to everyone. If you’re a fan of the 'Orange school,' you’ll appreciate the depth and complexity on display. It should only improve with time. Drink: 2015-2020."

"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." (12/13)