Ronchi di Cialla

Ronchi di Cialla, a 28 hectare historical Friulian Estate, is a small, family run business. Established in the 1970s, they have established a reputation as one of the finest producers of age-worthy wines in Fruili.


‘Ronchi’, in Fruili’s dialect, means hills cultivated by vines; ‘Cialla’ is a small valley surrounded by woods with chestnut, oak, and wild cherry trees. Located in the Cialla valley, one of three sub-zones in Colli Orientali del Friuli, it is a picturesque area with perfect growing conditions for the indigenous grapes. The company philosophy has always been to work solely with indigenous varieties, such as, Ribolla, Refosco, Schioppettino, Verduzzo, and Picolit. In fact, the Rapuzzi Family restored and revitalized the Schioppettino grape from near extinction, defying the odds and local wine laws.


Their viticultural practices involve minimal treatment with non-polluting products, while vinification is carried out naturally. Their continued commitment to agriculture innovation and ecologically-friendly methods have earned them their "biodiversity friendly" certification by the World Biodiversity Association. This accolade is granted to those with a commitment to progressive increases in biological diversity, conservation through the use of natural practices, and minimal interference farming techniques.

All wines by this producer (6)

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"Along with saving Schioppettino, Ronchi di Cialla also proved the importance of the variety, as today it is truly one of the most interesting and age-worthy reds being produced in Friuli. However, in my opinion, Ronchi di Cialla's Schioppettino remains the best... This is not just a historic winery, but also a historic family. The wines that they are producing today deserve serious consideration." Eric Guido, Vinous (April 2022)


(Ciallabianco 2019) "The 2019 Ciallabianco is impossible to ignore, with an exotic array of sweet herbs contrasting sour melon and mineral drench wet stone. This is round with a salty flourish up front, showcasing crushed green apples and sage with stimulating acidity that maintains wonderful energy. This keeps the mouth watering while finishing with a citrusy concentration." 93 points, Eric Guido, Vinous (April 2023)