Clai Ottocento Crni 2020

Grapes	Refosco, Merlot
Producer	Clai (Giorgio Clai)
Region	Istria, Croatia
Vintage	2020
Farming	Organic
Fermentation	Natural yeast, open vats
Aging	2+ years, large oak vats

Clai Ottocento Crni is a beautifully balanced red blend from Istria — Refosco and Merlot working together in exactly the way you’d hope: Merlot gives fruit and softness, Refosco keeps acidity and freshness. The result is an elegant, food-friendly wine with real structure and a long, satisfying finish.

The Producer — Clai, Istria

Giorgio Clai is one of Croatia’s most respected natural wine producers, farming organically in Istria with a philosophy of minimal intervention and maximum terroir expression. The Ottocento — named for the 1800s, a nod to old Istrian winemaking tradition — is his classic red blend.

Winemaking

Fermented and macerated at 30°C in open large wooden barrels for approximately one month, using only natural yeasts, with punchdowns three times a day. After fermentation the wine is pressed and aged for at least two years in large oak vats of 1,000–2,500 litres.

Tasting Notes

Beautifully balanced on the nose, with red fruit, dried herbs, and a subtle earthy quality from the Istrian limestone. On the palate: the Merlot’s soft, rounded fruit kept honest by Refosco’s cutting acidity. Medium-to-full body, fine tannins, and a long, satisfying finish.

How to Serve

Serve at 16–18°C. Decant for 30 minutes to open up fully. Excellent now and will develop for several more years.

Food Pairing

Istrian fuži pasta with truffles or game ragù, roast pork, lamb, aged Istrian cheese, grilled meats. The classic Istrian table.

Learn more: Croatian natural wine — the complete guide