Stara Škola Refošk
In 2016, a promising vintage led us to produce our Brombonero from carefully selected Refošk grapes. Coincidentally, we had just acquired new 500L Austrian oak barrels from the esteemed Stockinger cooperage, known as the “winemaker’s Stradivarius”. The natural pairing resulted in aging Brombonero in these new barrels. However, the unexpected taste profile emerged, with deeper notes of graphite and cedar imparted by the Stockinger barrels. After four years of aging, we decided to bottle this unique wine under the label of our sister restaurant, Stara Škola, dedicating it to the owner’s late father, who sadly passed away in 2020 and never had the chance to taste it. Now, it’s here for your enjoyment!
Grape varietal 100% Refošk Viticulture Organic Free sulfur dioxide 20 mg/l Category Dry Red Wine Yield per wine | Total dry extract Vintage 2016 Harvested By hand Reducing sugar 1.9 g/l Alcohol content 14.5% | Harvest time September Wine growing area Western Istria, Croatia Total acidity 5.8 g/l Soil composition Sandy clay with limestone pH 3,4 |
Vinification
Grapes are handpicked, de-stemmed and gravity fed into large wooden barrels for maceration which lasts about a month and is started with natural yeasts on the temperature at 30 degrees Celsius. We mix grapes at least three times a day and in that period wine goes through malo- lactic fermentation. After pressing it is aged at least two years in big wooden barrels (1000 to 2500l).
Wine production: Fermentation on the skins in op-en vats, without the addition of selected yeasts and enzymes
Aging: New Austrian Oak barrels
Bottle: 0,75 L
Tasting notes
This wine presents a Burgundy colour with a subtle garnet ting. On the nose, it reveals aromas of dried cherry, cigar box, graphite, cedar wood, and winter grasses. Its robust structure and balanced interplay of acidity, alcohol, and tannins make it an ideal companion for hearty meals. The palate is greeted with a combination of dark chocolate, mulberries, forest floor, and a hint of wild cherry perfume. The wine showcases the characteristic spice component of the Refošk variety, adding depth and complexity to the overall flavour profile. Immerse yourself in this sensory experience, appreciating the wine’s colour, aromas, and taste, which collectively express the wines distinct qualities.