Jakoncic Carolina Rdeca 2016

Drink now through 2032. No need to decant before serving.

The origins of Jakoncic winery date back to 1847 when Mihael and Carolina Jakončič planted their very first vineyard in Kozana in western Slovenia close to the border with Italy. Today the estate is still in the hands of the same family with Aljosa Jakoncic heading up the operation.

Their Carolina Rdeca is a Bordeaux-style blend crafted from predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon along with smaller proportions of Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The sunny Mediterranean climate ensures that the grapes achieve optimal ripeness and the vines are planted on characterful terraces on the hillsides. Here the cooling breezes help to modify summertime temperatures and preserve freshness in the grapes.

On the nose there are intense notes of bright ripe berries like cassis, blackberry and redcurrant along with subtle notes of dried flowers, bitter chocolate and crushed wild berries. The wine is aged in oak barrels for 24 months which adds complexity and subtle hints of clove, cinnamon and spice to the richly-layered flavour profile. This is a wine which will perform well in the cellar over the next decade or so, but can equally be enjoyed now with rich red meat dishes.