Ronco del Gnemiz

"I think it's safe to say that Serena Palazzolo and her husband Christian Patat are at the top of their game, which means that the wines of Ronco del Gnemiz are among the best made in Friuli today. There is a lot to choose from here, because the transparency of the terroir is paramount. It may be easier to sell and market one or two Sauvignons, Chardonnay or Friulano wines, but the differences between each hill, each site and the age of each vineyard create such unique expressions that it would be a shame not to produce all six.

Standing on the hill where this winery is located, looking out over Rosazzo in the Colli Orientali, it becomes clear why these vineyard designations are so important to the future of the region. These hills rise and fall like bubbles rising from the earth and dropping to the horizon. I can imagine a winemaker's fascination with each of these unique sites. If you were to make a short list of the best producers in Friuli, you should put Ronco del Gnemiz at the top of the list." Vinous

Iris presents itself in a delicate and restrained style. Bright straw green, on the nose hints of apricots, lime zest and a subtle tropical vein. Wonderful fruit-acid interplay on the palate, not quite as wild as its counterpart, but just as mineral and tension-filled. A skilful example of why it is sometimes good to vinify different terroirs separately and skilfully bring out the characteristics. Great Sauvignon cinema from a master hand! SUPERIORE.DE

"The bouquet of the Sauvignon Blanc Iris 2020 has a candied quality that is perfectly balanced by earthy notes of wet stone and freshly cut pear. The texture is soft, with pleasant ripe peach flavours and floral notes developing towards the finish. The finish is a little shorter than expected, but leaves a pleasant refreshment on the palate. Very nice." Vinous

"I think it's safe to say that Serena Palazzolo and her husband Christian Patat are at the top of their game, which means that the wines of Ronco del Gnemiz are among the best made in Friuli today. There is a lot to choose from here, because the transparency of the terroir is paramount. It may be easier to sell and market one or two Sauvignons, Chardonnay or Friulano wines, but the differences between each hill, each site and the age of each vineyard create such unique expressions that it would be a shame not to produce all six.

Standing on the hill where this winery is located, looking out over Rosazzo in the Colli Orientali, it becomes clear why these vineyard designations are so important to the future of the region. These hills rise and fall like bubbles rising from the earth and dropping to the horizon. I can imagine a winemaker's fascination with each of these unique sites. If you were to make a short list of the best producers in Friuli, you should put Ronco del Gnemiz at the top of the list." Vinous

New to the single-varietal portfolio of the top winery is the single-vineyard Sauvignon from the Lo Lozeta vineyard of the same name, which, after years of experimentation, has finally seen the light of day. It is the result of the avant-garde planting system, which, in contrast to the method of cultivation previously practised in Friuli, means not only a higher planting density, but also the intelligent use of clones and biotypes intermarried with French offshoots. It is another uncompromising and consistent step towards complexity and personality, with optimal exploitation and expression of the existing terroir and microclimate.

It is only with this year 2019 that the wine has found the balance and complexity that enabled Christian Patat to present it to the public in a very small edition alongside the famous classics Peri, Sol and Salici. This result and this interpretation of Sauvignon Bianco, full of character, is not only something to look forward to, but also something to be proud of as a winemaker! SUPERIORE.DE

"Gravel, candied lemon peel, green apple and dusty dried flowers all flow effortlessly from the 2019 Sauvignon Blanc Lozeta. It's silky-smooth, almost oily to the touch, but with an energy and precision that excites the senses, while salty minerals bring tension over a dense core of ripe stone fruits. Cheeks pucker with youthful tension, while tart citrus and floral notes linger long. The 2019 Lozeta could do with a year or two of ageing to reveal all its charms." Vinous

"I think it's safe to say that Serena Palazzolo and her husband Christian Patat are at the top of their game, which means that the wines of Ronco del Gnemiz are among the best made in Friuli today. There is a lot to choose from here, because the transparency of the terroir is paramount. It may be easier to sell and market one or two Sauvignons, Chardonnay or Friulano wines, but the differences between each hill, each site and the age of each vineyard create such unique expressions that it would be a shame not to produce all six.

Standing on the hill where this winery is located, looking out over Rosazzo in the Colli Orientali, it becomes clear why these vineyard designations are so important to the future of the region. These hills rise and fall like bubbles rising from the earth and dropping to the horizon. I can imagine a winemaker's fascination with each of these unique sites. If you were to make a short list of the best producers in Friuli, you should put Ronco del Gnemiz at the top of the list." Vinous

The single vineyard Sauvignon Bianco Lozeta is the result of the avant-garde planting system, which, in contrast to the method of cultivation previously practised in Friuli, means not only a higher planting density, but also the intelligent use of clones and biotypes intermarried with French offshoots. It is another uncompromising and consistent step towards complexity and personality, with optimal exploitation and expression of the existing terroir and microclimate.

Only since the 2019 vintage has the wine found the balance and complexity that enabled Christian Patat to present it to the public in a very small edition alongside the famous classics Peri, Sol and Salici. The second vintage of this interpretation of a Sauvignon Bianco full of character is not only something to look forward to, but also something to be proud of as a winemaker! SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2020 Sauvignon Blanc Lozeta has a dusty character, with spiced lemon peel and flowers complementing the crushed green apples. It is round and slightly opulent on the palate, with ripe fruit and enticing citrus notes. The finish is floral and precise with a lingering lemony intensity. The 2020 is a real delight." Vinous

"I think it's safe to say that Serena Palazzolo and her husband Christian Patat are at the top of their game, which means that the wines of Ronco del Gnemiz are among the best made in Friuli today. There is a lot to choose from here, because the transparency of the terroir is paramount. It may be easier to sell and market one or two Sauvignons, Chardonnay or Friulano wines, but the differences between each hill, each site and the age of each vineyard create such unique expressions that it would be a shame not to produce all six.

Standing on the hill where this winery is located, looking out over Rosazzo in the Colli Orientali, it becomes clear why these vineyard designations are so important to the future of the region. These hills rise and fall like bubbles rising from the earth and dropping to the horizon. I can imagine a winemaker's fascination with each of these unique sites. If you were to make a short list of the best producers in Friuli, you should put Ronco del Gnemiz at the top of the list." Vinous

San Zuan is an attractive, well-proportioned white made from 100% Friulano grapes. Complex, spicy bouquet of white peaches and pears, flowers, crushed rock and a subtle earthiness with notes of ginger and flint. Full and balanced on the palate, yet elegant, with some salty minerality, a hint of candied lemons, great length and nice ageing potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2021 Friulano San Zuan opens with a honeyed sweetness as white flowers, crisp green melon and confectionary spices fill the senses. This is round and supple on the palate, with vividly ripe orchard fruits nicely offset by bright acidity. It finishes with a lingering sweetness offset by spicy citrus tones. Beautifully ripe and concentrated, yet with stunning acidity, the 2021 San Zuan is a real head-turner." Vinous

"I think it's safe to say that Serena Palazzolo and her husband Christian Patat are at the top of their game, which means that the wines of Ronco del Gnemiz are among the best made in Friuli today. There is a lot to choose from here, because the transparency of the terroir is paramount. It may be easier to sell and market one or two Sauvignons, Chardonnay or Friulano wines, but the differences between each hill, each site and the age of each vineyard create such unique expressions that it would be a shame not to produce all six.

Standing on the hill where this winery is located, looking out over Rosazzo in the Colli Orientali, it becomes clear why these vineyard designations are so important to the future of the region. These hills rise and fall like bubbles rising from the earth and dropping to the horizon. I can imagine a winemaker's fascination with each of these unique sites. If you were to make a short list of the best producers in Friuli, you should put Ronco del Gnemiz at the top of the list." Vinous

The single-varietal Chardonnay Ronco Basso perfectly embodies the style of the house and its terroir. The grapes come from a small parcel in the Rosazzo hills. Effervescent but deep bouquet of fine straw and smoke notes, crushed almonds, young peach and exotic fruits. Elegant and perfectly balanced taste with sweet spice and a pleasantly citrusy and mineral finish. SUPERIORE.DE

"An attractive blend of crushed stone, white flowers, apple and vanilla custards make the 2021 Chardonnay Ronco Basso a total pleasure on the nose. This is pure hedonistic pleasure on the palate, with soothingly silky textures and ultra-ripe orchard fruits offset by a burst of candied lime. For all of its intensity, the 2021 cleans up beautifully though the finish, leaving hints of hazelnut and dried apricot that resonate." Vinous

"I think it's safe to say that Serena Palazzolo and her husband Christian Patat are at the top of their game, which means that the wines of Ronco del Gnemiz are among the best made in Friuli today. There is a lot to choose from here, because the transparency of the terroir is paramount. It may be easier to sell and market one or two Sauvignons, Chardonnay or Friulano wines, but the differences between each hill, each site and the age of each vineyard create such unique expressions that it would be a shame not to produce all six.

Standing on the hill where this winery is located, looking out over Rosazzo in the Colli Orientali, it becomes clear why these vineyard designations are so important to the future of the region. These hills rise and fall like bubbles rising from the earth and dropping to the horizon. I can imagine a winemaker's fascination with each of these unique sites. If you were to make a short list of the best producers in Friuli, you should put Ronco del Gnemiz at the top of the list." Vinous

Strong yellow-green, dense bouquet packed with opulent fruit aromas. On the palate complex, juicy and very well integrated wood notes. Despite its extroverted nature, the Sauvignon Sol never loses its essential minerality and elegance. Possesses class, length and potential. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2019 Sauvignon Blanc Sol is a little more extroverted and fruit-driven than the Péri, but that doesn't mean it lacks character and verve. Dried apricot, peach and vanilla bean gain depth with a squeeze of lime and a hint of wild herbs. The soft, almost oily texture is balanced by notes of tart green apple, ginger and zesty spice, creating an expression of contrast. Hints of kiwi, sour melon and salty mineral tones linger impressively as the residual acids slowly fade. The Sol comes from a lower parcel in the estate's vineyards, planted on rocky, chalky soils." Vinous

"I think it's safe to say that Serena Palazzolo and her husband Christian Patat are at the top of their game, which means that the wines of Ronco del Gnemiz are among the best made in Friuli today. There is a lot to choose from here, because the transparency of the terroir is paramount. It may be easier to sell and market one or two Sauvignons, Chardonnay or Friulano wines, but the differences between each hill, each site and the age of each vineyard create such unique expressions that it would be a shame not to produce all six.

Standing on the hill where this winery is located, looking out over Rosazzo in the Colli Orientali, it becomes clear why these vineyard designations are so important to the future of the region. These hills rise and fall like bubbles rising from the earth and dropping to the horizon. I can imagine a winemaker's fascination with each of these unique sites. If you're making a short list of Friuli's best producers, you should put Ronco del Gnemiz at the top of the list." Vinous

Sauvignon Peri comes from the oldest vines on the estate and is a very classic, downright austere interpretation of Sauvignon Bianco. Vintage 2017 offers a lot of varietal character and is very aromatic, yet has a very fine coolness. Green apple, pear, gooseberry and spices meld into a multi-layered and deep finish. For us, it is a classic white meditation wine. SUPERIORE.DE

"I think it's safe to say that Serena Palazzolo and her husband Christian Patat are at the top of their game, which means that the wines of Ronco del Gnemiz are among the best made in Friuli today. There is a lot to choose from here, because the transparency of the terroir is paramount. It may be easier to sell and market one or two Sauvignons, Chardonnay or Friulano wines, but the differences between each hill, each site and the age of each vineyard create such unique expressions that it would be a shame not to produce all six.

Standing on the hill where this winery is located, looking out over Rosazzo in the Colli Orientali, it becomes clear why these vineyard designations are so important to the future of the region. These hills rise and fall like bubbles rising from the earth and dropping to the horizon. I can imagine a winemaker's fascination with each of these unique sites. If you're making a short list of Friuli's best producers, you should put Ronco del Gnemiz at the top of the list." Vinous

The site near Buttrio, where the grapes of the autochthonous grape variety Friulano come from, belongs, together with Rosazzo, to the Grand Crus of the Friuli Colli Orientali appellation. Here there are not only no regulations, but also a lean, loose marl soil, which ensures extremely small yields every year. In good vintages, however, one is rewarded all the more for this: the volume and fruit concentration, the lower acidity and the unmistakable saltiness of the wines will lead to pleasurable heights after a few years of bottle ageing that will make lovers of complex, energetic whites giddy. SUPERIORE.DE

"The Friulano Buri Bellaria 2020 is so pretty and perfumed, it smells like a basket of freshly picked flowers with hints of pear and chamomile. It is fleshy and enveloping, with a nice lift of acidity that enlivens the ripe peaches and melons that seduce the senses. It leaves the mouth watering and finishes remarkably fresh and spicy, with a hint of ginger that slowly tapers off." Vinous

Smooth, generous red wine with beautiful notes of red fruits, sweet spices and delicate herbs, all coming together in a medium-bodied, terroir-driven style. The wine offers excellent depth, a long, elegant finish and an inspiring overall harmony. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2019 Rosso del Gnemiz wafts up smoky with red currants, peppery herbs and rosy florals. Its textures are silky, ushering in a potent wave of spicy red berries and minerals, all supported by bright acidity. While pretty and finessed, the 2019 is also powerful and structured, promising many years of pleasure." Vinous

Also from Bruttrio, like the Friulano Buri Bellaria, comes the almost single-vineyard top Merlot of the Palazzolo family. The vines of the vineyard, which was formerly cultivated by Miani, are almost 100 years old and regularly produce grapes of great complexity and very noble tannins, which, however, need at least two years of ageing and refinement before the wine is bottled unfiltered. Then, however, the wine begins a journey that could not be more exciting and fruitful. On the nose, we find violet flowers and lots of blue and black berries, rounded off by piquant herbs and spices. A remarkably silky, almost floating red that leads into a never-ending fusious final with fleshy berries, minerals and herbs. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2019 Rosso Buri Bellaria entices with its classic bouquet of ripe blueberries and plums complemented by spicy wild herbs and tobacco leaf. This fleshes out across the palate, with mineral-tinged red and black fruits motivated by juicy acidity, as sweet spices form toward the close. It finishes with fine tannins that frame the expression well, while leaving a coating of concentration and inner violet flowers to fade. The 2019 Rosso Buri Bellaria is already so enjoyable, but it will benefit from another few years of cellaring." Vinous

"I think it's safe to say that Serena Palazzolo and her husband Christian Patat are at the top of their game, which means that the wines of Ronco del Gnemiz are among the best made in Friuli today. There is a lot to choose from here, because the transparency of the terroir is paramount. It may be easier to sell and market one or two Sauvignons, Chardonnay or Friulano wines, but the differences between each hill, each site and the age of each vineyard create such unique expressions that it would be a shame not to produce all six.

Standing on the hill where this winery is located, looking out over Rosazzo in the Colli Orientali, it becomes clear why these vineyard designations are so important to the future of the region. These hills rise and fall like bubbles rising from the earth and dropping to the horizon. I can imagine a winemaker's fascination with each of these unique sites. If you were to make a short list of the best producers in Friuli, you should put Ronco del Gnemiz at the top of the list." Vinous

Sauvignon Blanc Peri gives off hints of crushed chalk before transitioning to apples and pears with citrus aromas. It has a silky, almost oily character, with pervasive ripe orchard fruits and sweet spices tantalising the senses, while salty minerals create a more stimulating and tactile sensation towards the end. The finish is long and spicy, leaving the palate with a classic dry and fresh taste. There is so much going on here, and much more to come as it matures. Wonderfully complex, a classic meditation wine. Peri comes from the oldest Sauvignon vineyard in Ronco del Gnemiz with vines that are over 45 years old. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2021 Sauvignon Blanc Peri whisps up from the glass with a nuanced bouquet, blending savory spices with dusty florals and pear. It's supremely silky and supple, yet lifted as well, placing minerality before fruit but then closes with a pretty inner sweetness. Zests of lemon and lime mingle with savory spice and sage as the 2021 leaves the palate buzzing with residual tension." Vinous

"I think it's safe to say that Serena Palazzolo and her husband Christian Patat are at the top of their game, which means that the wines of Ronco del Gnemiz are among the best made in Friuli today. There is a lot to choose from here, because the transparency of the terroir is paramount. It may be easier to sell and market one or two Sauvignons, Chardonnay or Friulano wines, but the differences between each hill, each site and the age of each vineyard create such unique expressions that it would be a shame not to produce all six.

Standing on the hill where this winery is located, looking out over Rosazzo in the Colli Orientali, it becomes clear why these vineyard designations are so important to the future of the region. These hills rise and fall like bubbles rising from the earth and dropping to the horizon. I can imagine a winemaker's fascination with each of these unique sites. If you were to make a short list of the best producers in Friuli, you should put Ronco del Gnemiz at the top of the list." Vinous

The grapes for this great Chardonnay come from vines that are over 60 years old, and this shows impressively in the depth and complexity of the wine. The full bouquet exudes dusty white flowers and nuances of vanilla bean, contrasted by crushed green apple, curry leaves and rock. Sol is a contrasting, very complex Chardonnay expression with ripe fruit and a silky texture balanced by mineral acids and a hint of acidic citrus. On the palate, it leaves a vibrant tension and refreshment as it finishes with persistence and a hint of almond paste. Forget white Burgundy, the intellectual Chardonnay Sol surpasses all. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2021 Chardonnay Sol is quite restrained and delicate in the glass with floral nuances, crushed stones and lime. It's much more expressive on the palate, with brisk acidity giving life to its mineral-inflected orchard fruits. This tapers off with a pretty inner sweetness offsetting its youthful concentration, leaving hints of floral-laced apple and pear. The 2021 will take some time to come fully into focus." Vinous

Dottore Palazzolo, the red dedicated to the founder, made of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot, opens with the scent of ripe berries, a hint of vanilla, tobacco and black tar. Extract-rich and concentrated, yet full of elegance, with fine acidity and wonderfully firm on the palate. Very promising years are ahead for this rarity. SUPERIORE.DE

"Crushed stone minerality meets floral undergrowth, dried blackberries and a hint of animal musk to create a beguiling display on the 2018 Dott. Palazzolo Rosso. This is silky and savory, with a sapidity that makes you think more of food than wine, as tart wild berries and spices give way to mounting tannins and herbal tones. Inner violets, black currants and hints of sour citrus all resonate through the finale, along with a tug of structural heft that just begs for another year or two of cellaring. Very nice." Vinous

Dottore Palazzolo, the red dedicated to the founder, made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot, opens in deep ruby red and with the scent of ripe berries, a hint of vanilla, tobacco and black tar. Beguiling, rich in extract and concentrated with herbs and wild berries, yet full of elegance, with fine citrus acidity and wonderfully firm on the palate. Our tip: Be patient and allow this exceptional wine a few more years of bottle ageing! SUPERIORE.DE

"Savory in the glass, the 2020 Rosso del Gnemiz lifts up with dusty florals and earth tones before giving way to dried black cherries. This is pure elegance, lifted and refined, with crisp red and black fruits accelerated by brisk acidity. It finishes classically dry and with fine tannins that frame the wine perfectly, tapering off with amazing length and clarity, leaving peppery florals to linger." Vinous