Ronchi di Cialla, a historic winery in northeastern Italy, is reviving forgotten local grape varieties, including Schioppettino. Certified biodynamic, the estate produces unique wines, the fruit of ancestral know-how passed on by Paolo and Dina Rapuzzi to their children.

Ronchi di Cialla is a historic and unique winery in northeastern Italy, on the border with Slovenia, on the wine appellation "Friuli Colli Orientali". The history of the estate began in 1970 when Paolo and Dina Rapuzzi bought a few hectares of land in order to cultivate some vines and olive trees. At the time, the region was still mainly composed of "international" grape varieties such as Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris. The Rapuzzi then decided to reintroduce forgotten local grape varieties, and in particular Schioppettino. This red grape variety was declared extinct. However, Paolo and Dina managed to find 70 live vines and reproduce them on an entire vineyard... A feat!

The family applies great care to the vineyard and in the cellar to sublimate this unique grape variety totally adapted to its local terroir. The estate is certified biodynamic and Paolo and Dina's children, Pierpaolo and Ivan, perpetuate the conservation of forgotten grape varieties. The estate produces around 115,000 bottles a year and offers an impressive library of old vintages. Needless to say, the wines of Ronchi di Cialla are for all these reasons incomparable and unique!