Nera Malvazija Crna

The Nera Malvazija Crna from the Tomaz Winery in Motovun is a bit of a cult classic in Istria. While the region is famous for its white Malvazija Istriana, Klaudio Tomaz has championed this rare red relative, turning it into one of the most powerful and distinctive wines in Croatia. About 3 to 4 weeks before the actual harvest, they cut roughly 80% of the fertile branches (arches) but leave the grape clusters hanging on the vine. These clusters dehydrate naturally, losing water and concentrating sugars, acids, and extracts. The remaining 20% of "live" grapes are harvested together with the dried ones in early October.  The wine undergoes a long maceration (30–40 days) and then ages for 18 to 24 months in oak barrique barrels. It usually sits in the bottle for another 6 months before being released. Aromas of pomegranate marmalade, marzipan, and cooked quince, moving into "warm" notes like heated beech wood, mint, and dried leaves. The palate is quite playful where you’ll find layers of dry berry fruit, hazelnuts, carob, and vanilla, finishing with coffee and dark chocolate.