2008 Miloš Plavac Mali ‘Stagnum’ Pelješac Peninsula Croatia

Planted on incredibly steep 30 year old terraced vineyards on the slopes of the Pelješac peninsula, this is the most long lived Plavac Mali we’ve yet encountered. Hand picked, fermented with wild yeasts, and aged in old Slavonian oak barrel for three years before bottling. Both 2009 and 2006 were great vintages, but the extra year in barrel when compared to his Plavac bottling adds a remarkable silky texture. Aromas of sage and black tea (they also grow tea on the same slopes) mixed with rich dark fruit have created a cult following in Croatia. Like tasting an older bottle of Ridge Zinfandel from California , this 100% Plavac Mali proves some genetic lineage. Frano likes to pair it with wild game, ripe cheese, pelagic fish and the local favorite – oysters.