2016 Gravner, Ribolla Gialla, Venezia-Giulia - 750ML

Josko Gravner’s Ribolla Gialla is one of the benchmark wines of the modern skin-contact movement, produced from Ribolla grown in the hills of Venezia Giulia and fermented with extended skin contact in buried amphorae. The 2016 is an especially complete expression of the style, combining deep amber color, formidable structure, and savory complexity with remarkable freshness and precision.

Blend: 100% Ribolla Gialla.

Tasting Notes: Dried apricot, orange peel, bruised apple, ginger, clove, incense, cedar, and dried flowers unfold gradually, joined by saline and smoky mineral tones. The palate is broad and deeply textured, with firm, dry tannins from the extended skin contact, vibrant acidity, and layers of citrus, orchard fruit, spice, and earthy complexity. The finish is long, savory, and distinctly mineral, with impressive tension despite the wine’s concentration.

Structure: Powerful, tannic, mineral-driven, and highly complex, with substantial texture and exceptional longevity.

Drink Window: 2025–2038

Decanting: Decant for approximately 60–90 minutes before serving. This is a structured, skin-contact wine that benefits from both air and a serving temperature closer to cellar temperature than a conventional white; around 55–60°F allows its aromatic and textural complexity to emerge.

For collectors and adventurous wine drinkers, the 2016 Gravner Ribolla is a distinctive bottle with the presence of a serious red wine and the aromatic profile of a mature white. It is particularly compelling at the table with aged cheeses, roast poultry, pork, mushrooms, or richly seasoned seafood, and it also makes a memorable cellar or gifting choice for someone interested in one of Italy’s most influential and singular wine styles.