Erzetič – Cabernet Sauvignon Amfora, 2016

We’re returning to the Erzetič family in the village of Višnjevik, Brda. Last time we had a look at their Pokalca, this time we’ll have a closer look at a wine that is quite a rare gem stylistically. I’m talking about their Cabernet Sauvignon which was vinified in large clay vessels – kvevri, therefore bearing the name Amfora.

Vineyards for this wine are in conversion to organic, and count for over 15 years of age. Only hand labour is possible on these marly terraces (Eocene flysch) that are facing west.

Grapes are hand-harvested at the beginning of October, they undergo a 2-week long maceration in a vinificator at controlled temperatures, undergoing alcoholic fermentation.

The fermented mash is then gently pressed and left to mature in partly new barrique barrels for 24 months, where it conducts full malolactic fermentation. Surprisingly only after barell ageing it is transferred to further refine in kvevri for 12 months. Finally, it is bottled after filtering and left to mature for at least 9 months before coming to the market.

The result is a Cabernet Sauvignon with a deep ruby red colour, with a slight garnet tip and extractive viscosity.

Its bouquet is intense, seductive. We detect roasted blueberries, marasca cherries, dried laurel, carob, black tea, liquorice, cocoa, coffee, incense, resin and a smoke undertone.

The taste is alluring, soft, distinctly fresh, with velvety tannins that are ripening up. It boasts a vigorous body, with a long, seductively elegant persisting taste.

This Cabernet Sauvignon Amfora is a wine that will charm with its deep colour and alluring aromas, to then enchant us with its elegant character full of intense sensations.

Andrej Erzetič has been chosen also as the Young winemaker of the year, at one of Slovenia’s retailers.