In Focus, by Richard Sagala
Refosco Dal Peduncolo Rosso 2001
Another typical offering of the Ronchi di Cialla Estate is the Refosco Dal Peduncolo Rosso. Typical of Friuli Venezia Giulia, the grape is also found in Veneto and is a parent of the Corvina grape (used in Valpolicella and Amarone).
If you read my tasting note on the Schioppettino 2011 from Ronchi di Cialla, I can tell you that I had the pleasure to taste a few vintages of Refoscos: 1984-2001-2004-2010 and compare them with Schioppettinos 1982-1991-1992-2002 and 2011.
Schioppettino appears to be the more elegant grape overall but Refoscos showed more structure and aged better without too much oxydation.
Tannins are a bit more rustic as well but, when properly aged they get polished and pleasant. Schioppettinos aromas lingers for a longer time but the aromas of this mature 2001 Refosco tasted here are very seductive:
On the nose, one gets lavender floral notes, tart cherries and almonds. followed by dried cherries notes on the palate, generous alcohol and fused in tannins giving the wine a pleasant texture. The finish returns lavender floral notes and is prolonged with aromas of figs poached in oolong tea .
This medium body, chiseled wine, could be a good dance partner with many different dishes. I would see it well with fowl, like a pheasant, a dish prepared with Grappa that they enjoy over there in Friuli (with the exception that I would use some kirsch instead).
-Highly recommended-
Nota: this wine is not available yet in Canada but, stay tuned, as soon as it will started being distributed I shall give you the name of a wine agency, a point of contact where you will be able to order it.