Vintage - 2024

Country - Croatia

Region - Istria

Grape Varieties - Teran 100%

Alcohol by volume - 13%

Bottle - 75cl

The Kozlović family have been making wine in the Istrian region of Croatia since 1904. The region borders Friuli and the wines, food and people have a real connection with their Italian neighbours. The winery is run by Gianfranco and Antonella Kozlović and they currently cultivate 25 hectares of vineyard. Gianfranco is a perfectionist and he is constantly striving to improve his wine. He takes a modern approach to winemaking and produces seriously good wines. The Zmergo vineyards are situated at an altitude of 240 metres above sea level and have a southerly orientation to maximise the vine's exposure to the sun. The vines have an average age of 31 years and are grown in soils that are composed of flysch, limestone and clay. The Teran variety is characterised by high acidity and low tannins and makes wonderfully refreshing wines. The grapes are hand-harvested at optimum maturity.

The grapes were carefully sorted and underwent 10 days’ maceration, with fermentation taking place in stainless steel vats at controlled temperatures. The wine was then matured in wooden barrels of 30 hectolitres for eight months, prior to bottling. This Teran shows a deep, opaque violet color. The nose is quite intense, with ripe dark fruits such as sour cherry and black cherry, along with notes of licorice, a touch of chocolate, oak, and layers of dried spices. The palate offers plenty of ripe fruit without any overripe character. Overall, it feels refined — quite atypical for the usually rustic style of Teran. Dry, with a higher level of juicy acidity. Medium-bodied, with low levels of ripe, grippy tannins. The character is of medium intensity and varied, with no lack of freshness or youthful appeal. Quite vibrant, showing a modern style of Teran, where lift and drinkability matter more than sheer weight and intensity.