Kozlović Santa Lucia Noir
Winery: Kozlović
Varietals: Merlot 50%, Teran 25%, Cabernet Sauvignon 25%
Appellation: West Istria, Croatia - single vineyard, Santa Lucia
Annual Production: 1,000 bottles
Alcohol: 14.0%
Climate: Mediterranean, with dry and hot summers, and mild winters
Terrain: Hilly vineyards in small areas called Valle, Santa Lucia, and Kontarini, with southern sun exposure, at an altitude of approximately 240 meters. The area, much like the rest of Istria, Croatia, is made up of gently rolling hills with what the Istrians like to call “Terra Bianca,” or “White Soil” – a combination of flysch, limestone, and white clay.
Farming: Minimal amount of spraying, as needed, only with substances approved for sustainable farming in Istria, Croatia.
Vinification: Hand-harvested from single vineyard Santa Lucia. The wine is de-stemmed, and undergoes maceration for 20-25 days, and then transferred to neutral French barrique for 18months, and then additional 6 months in stainless steel tanks, before bottling and ageing for 3-5 years before release.
Tasting Notes: The top tier wines of the family - Santa Lucia – coming from their prized single vineyards, Santa Lucia ‘Noir’ is the “Super Istrian” expression from the Kozlović family, combining the indigenous grape variety, Teran, blended with international Bordeaux varietals such as Merlot and Cabernt Sauvignon. Known for their benchmark, Malvasia Istriana, as one of the oldest family winery traditions in Istria, here they also showcase the truly great red wines that can come from Istria.
The pours a deep ruby red color, and promptly shows emphatic and complex aromas of pronounced ripe dark and black fruits, licorice, dried fruits along with dark chocolate and spice. On the palate, it is lush, with ripe tannins and beautiful deep structure and power, yet well matured with time in bottle. No brainer to pair this with grilled steak and aged dried cheeses.
Winery Information
Kozlović
Gianfranco Kozlović is the largest private producer of Malvasia in Istria, and a vocal crusader for quality. The family has been working these vineyards that dot the hillsides of northern Istria for several generations.