There are a few Bordeaux blends in Slovenia that can stand lined proudly to the synonym implied by such words. And this is one that can stand in line, tall, with self-confidence, when they align. We’re returning to Pasji rep to look at their red blend, so intriguingly named “Jebatschin”.

Now, my Balkan friends might get some “kinky” connotation when reading the name, but this is actually the name of the plot from which grapes were sourced. Named as a homage to the lady from which the family Premrn bought her property and had this surname.

I’m following this wine for a couple of years, and it has seen a stylistic change and evolved. It is produced only in best vintages from a selection of healthiest berries. Initially, it was assembled by a major share of Merlot, followed by a part of Cabernet Sauvignon and some Barbera. 2013 was the last vintage of these varieties, and now it is composed of 80 % Merlot and 20 % Cabernet Franc.

Let’s position ourselves in Vipava valley, we are in the vineyard among vines that count 13 and 7 years of age, and their load is between 0,8 to 1 kilo. The grass is below our feet, and we see layers of flysch intertwining at its borders. We are at an altitude of 300 meters above sea level with a gentle breeze flowing through vines and caressing us … Though, when Bora kicks in it can be pretty harsh, as it can blow up to 235 km/h.

Handpicking is done by hand, and now we’re in the cellar. Grapes were destemmed, crushed and spontaneous fermentation is about to kick in. It will stay like this for 20 days, to be then gently pressed and lady to mature in 228 litre Fench oak barrels for 18 months. 35 % of them are new, and the wood is serious, as Samo uses only the likes of Latour, Cadous and Seguin Moreau.

During these 18 months, it fully conducts malolactic fermentation. No sulphur is added during this whole time. It will only be added before bottling. And the finished bottle will rest for at least half a year before pleasing the palate of consumers.

This reflects in a wine of deep, ruby red colour with a dense texture, staining the glass walls with slow shades of tears.

The bouquet is intense, of ripe blackberries, maraschino, mulberry, chokeberry, red rose, violet, liquorice, chocolate, cinnamon, vanilla, cloves, as well as notes of graphite and iodine.

The taste is soft, feels warm, and fresh, mineral, with dry tannins that act refined and can slowly round-up. An intense journey for our palate, of pronounced elegance and a vigorous body that expresses in a lasting aftertaste. A wine with elegance and the character of the Vipava people!

It has huge ageing potential, as it will only improve over the years. It can wait patiently in the cellar for the next 7 years, and still, it will be lively and elegant. You can get it at eVino for 18,90 Eur, a real bargain for such a stud.

If reading about this wine intrigued you into finding more about Pasji rep, look at my notes of their Malva Flysch, which was one of the most loved posts of January.