2013 Stoka Teran

Region: Kras < Slovenia
Grapes: Teran
Vineyard/Cellar Stats: Organic farming, limestone/dolomite soil, no added SO2, native yeast, unfined/unfiltered
Winemaker: Primož Stoka

The Slovenian/Italian border region of the Kras (aka Carso) was historically covered in oak forests until the Venetians deforested nearly everything to build ships and the city of Venice. The resulting erosion, famously strong “burja” winds, and soluble bedrock soil have since made it a perfect place for grapes to suffer and become great. Naturally high acidity and low sugar even when ripe, this wine is more bone than fat, with a blood-like iron-rich character. Deep red, briny, and Amaro-scented with forest fruits, Mediterranean herbs and a touch of salty minerality. It’s got more of the good-for-you stuff too – high in resveratrol, lactic acid, and iron, Teran has a medicinal history dating back to Roman times. With a bit of air, this wine opens up and gets even prettier; if you can, decant for 30 minutes before serving, then drink to your health!