Benvenuti Teran 2015

Ideally drink now to 2030. Decant 2-3 hours, best served at 16-18°C

As you decant this 2015 Teran, notice the intense ruby, inky red color. The immediate aroma of riding boots and saddle leather will dissipate, and instead rich chocolate and licorice, blackberries and currants will float up from the glass. On the palate, chocolate coated sour cherries combine with strong acidity of dried cranberries, the firm tannins of fresh pomegranate seeds and a smooth harmonious finish. Overall, this tricky Croatian varietal has shown tremendous potential for aging between powerful structure and obvious, but not too aggressive, acidity.

This is a fabulous food wine. Allow its acidity to cut through unctuous dishes like pork belly and bone marrow, or enjoy alongside rich prime rib or rack of lamb.

The Teran grape is considered the most important Istrian red, and is thought to hold a special place in the wine history of the region. Difficult to ripen, the best Teran wines are result of careful care and attention. The Benvenuti family has successfully grown this tricky Adriatic varietal, following their philosophy of “Family, tradition, and terroir.” Father, Livius, and his two sons Nikola and Albert, carefully chose the vineyards in Spanjole at 300m above the sea, to grow their Teran. The grapes went through a 20 day maceration period, followed by 24 months in oak. Patience paid for their wine, as previous vintages have earned champion titles in Vinistra. Expect this 2015 Teran to continue the impressive track record, and allow the strong tannins and acidic backbone to soften over years in your cellar.