The Rodica Family Organic Winery is located in the heart of Slovenian Istria, in the village of Truške near Marezige above Koper. The wine cellar lies on top of a hill overlooking the sea of the Gulf of Trieste and the unspoiled nature of the Dragonja River. The vineyards are spread on the southern slopes of the Istrian hills at an altitude of 250 to 350 m. We cultivate 60,000 vines on 15 hectares, planted mainly with indigenous varieties of Refosco, Malvasia, and Yellow Muscat, as well as others, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Pinot Gris.

We believe that quality has roots in the vineyard. The lands on which we have planted our vines were abandoned and overgrown for the past 50 years. There has never been the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides. Planted in poor, shallow soil, the vines grow modestly. On this airy terrain, sunlit throughout the day, vine diseases can be treated and controlled without synthetic substances. By showing great respect for nature, thus, we grow great-tasting, healthful grapes from which we produce healthful and strong wines that reflect the character of our wine-growing district.

-From the producer

Vinification: Hand-harvested grapes go through a 7-day maceration period, ferment naturally and age for 6 months in used 2,500L French oak barrels and then for an additional 6 months in stainless steel tanks. Next harvest, unfermented Refošk is added to the wine and secondary fermentation begins. The fermenting wine is then bottled with crown caps, natural fermentation continues in the bottles. The wine is not disgorged, hence the “col fondo” sediment.

Tasting Notes: A naturally made sparkling Refosco. Think undisgorged Champagne method red sparkling wine. Typical varietal aromas of red berries and spices, along with funkier aromas of hay and forest floor. Inky, juicy, amazingly refreshing, with bright acidity and chewy tannins.

Serve cold.

-Vinum