Kristančič – Pavó Belo, 2018

Let’s head to Brda today, to Medana where villagers hosted the traditional Rožnca. A procession in honour of today’s festivity – Virgin Mary’s Assumption. An occasion that unites people and to where winemakers bring and present their wines to visitors. The Kristančič family was also part of this procession, and we’ll be looking at their white blend of Chardonnay, Rebula and Sauvignon Vert, matured in oak barrels.

Pavó white is their most prestigious blend and is composed of 70 % Chardonnay, 15 % Rebula and 15 % Sauvignon Vert. Only the best berries from vines that count for thirty years and more are used in the production. The wine matures for eighteen months in barriques before being bottled, and the result is spectacular.

Pavó white shows a crystalline, golden yellow colour with dense texture quickly settling in the glass.

Its bouquet is intense, seductive. We perceive scents of ripe Jonagold apple, peach, mango, honey melon, candied lemon, as well as gentle notes of maturation on lees in oak, with pan brioche, butter, cinnamon, vanilla, caramel and toffe.

It is dry, with pronounced softness and well-integrated alcohols resulting in a reasonably warm feel. It is fresh and mineral salty, just enough to balance the taste. Pavó white is an intense wine with a vigorous body and lasting persistency of accentuated elegance. With flavours of apple, candied lemon, mango, toffee and sweet spices that are caressing the palate.

Pavó white will only evolve with bottle ageing, and I think it will peak in around seven years. With the price level of approximately 17 Eur, this is simply a bargain. You can get it at Koželj, Vinoteka Sodček, Zagriz, TuamV and The wine and more.