Vineyard location and characteristics: Through the course of history, this has been arguably our most well-known brand among red wines – the Cabernet from the Contarini location. We recognized early on that the Contarini-Brazzania location in the Region of Buje is one of the best wine-growing regions in Istria. A low yield per hectare allows for the attaining of exceptional qualities found only in extraordinary wines. The vineyards are laid out in an amphitheatre fashion, helping them to ideally utilize the local climate and the mineral-rich white soil.
Vinification and maturing: Alcohol fermentation begins at temperatures ranging from 25 to 28°C for a duration of 15 to 20 days. The malolactic fermentation and the maturation period take place over 18 months in small oak casks which help pair the rich and noble aromas of wood and grape. What follows next is the blending and the ageing of wine in a big wooden barrel over the span of a year, finishing with an additional 6 months spent in a bottle where the wine is further matured and balanced.
Color: Dark ruby
Bouquet: Initially dominated by spices and roasted notes such as roasted coffee, vanilla, black and green pepper, but soon after giving rise to ripe plums and Maraska cherries
Taste: Bold, warm, soft, with unambiguous tannins, smooth
Gastronomic recommendation: Red grilled meats, primarily beefsteak, roasted red meat and game with tuffles