The grape variety Rebula

Rebula, also known as Ribolla Gialla in Italy, is a distinctive white grape variety predominantly cultivated in Slovenia’s Goriška Brda region and neighboring Friuli-Venezia Giulia in Italy. Exhibiting a luminous straw-yellow hue, Rebula wines are celebrated for their refined acidity and expressive aromatic profile. On the nose, they reveal bright notes of green apple, lemon zest, and ripe pear, often accompanied by subtle nuances of white flowers, almond, and sometimes a mineral edge. The palate typically demonstrates freshness and vibrancy, with a crisp citrus backbone and a pleasantly long, slightly saline finish.

Winemakers craft Rebula into a range of styles, from fresh, unoaked versions emphasizing purity and freshness, to more complex, skin-contact or “orange” wines known for their texture and depth. Some barrel-aged examples show enhanced richness and a creamy mouthfeel while retaining the grape’s signature vivacity.

Rebula pairs beautifully with Mediterranean seafood dishes, shellfish, grilled white fish, and gently spiced Asian cuisine. Its lively acidity also complements fresh goat cheese, vegetable risottos, and light poultry preparations, making it an adaptable choice at the table for those seeking both subtlety and character.