2018 Zlatan Plavac Grand Select

100% Plavac Mali

ABV: 15%

Island of Hvar, Dalmatia, Croatia

Climate: Mediterranean, with dry and hot summers, and mild winters

Terrain: Located on some of the most breath-taking and dramatic vineyards in Croatia, if not the entire world - southern exposure, 35-45% drastic slopes of Hvar Island with an altitude level ranging from approximately the sea level to 1,000 meters. Ideal climate, perfect for organic vine growing was spotted by the Ancient Greeks who settled here and planted with vines pre-Roman Empire. A very rocky soil that is mostly red clay topsoil with a rugged limestone foundation.

Farming: Organic. No irrigation, minimal amount of spraying in Spring and mid-summer months, with small amounts of powdered sulfites.

Vinification: Hand-harvest followed by 8-14 days of skin maceration in stainless steel tanks, later controlled fermentation in wooden vinificators for an additional 8-10 days at a temperature of 22° C - 25° C. Fermentation is strictly done through native/natural yeasts. The wine is aged for 18 months in large used Slavonian and Fresh oak barrels of 4,000 and 8,000 liters and French barriques, coarsely fined and bottled unfiltered.

Tasting Notes: This big, inky wine offers heady black fruit on the nose, along with a mild and well-integrated sweet oak. Strong tannins and a full body support incredibly concentrated black cherry, plum, and blueberry fruit on the palate, along with earth and tobacco.

We suggest decanting wine for at least 45 minutes before consumption at a slightly chilled (cellar temperature). Pair with wild fowl, roasted red meats with complex sauces, venison, stews, cured meats, hard and aged cheeses, grilled meats, thick burgers, and grilled blue fish.