Gradis’Ciutta, Collio DOC (Italy) Ribolla Gialla 2018

 The grape variety Ribolla Gialla is native to the Italian wine region of Collio in northeastern Italy, sharing a border with Slovenia’s wine region, Goriska Brda.  The vintners in the area admit the possibility that some of their vines might be on the other side of the border.  I was introduced to this region several years ago and fell in love with their wines, especially those made of Ribolla Gialla.  This one comes from the Princic family who had been growing grapes to sell to local wineries until their son, Robert finished studies in Oenology and Viticulture in 1997 and decided to make wine.  In 2018 those grapes were certified organic.  This wine of the 2018 vintage is very fresh and lively with delicate lemon zest aromas and dry citrus and green apple flavors that are round in the mouth.  Citrusy acidity adds brightness to the flavors, making the wine a suitable companion for a tuna salad or Vietnamese salad rolls.