CRLJENAK 750 ml

Discover Crljenak, a Croatian red wine carrying the weight of history in every bottle. This grape, bearing the oldest documented name for its kind, lingered in obscurity on the sun-drenched slopes of Dalmatia. Once a staple in the region, it faded into near oblivion following the phylloxera outbreak, its vines scattered and forgotten amid the coastal hills. In a twist of vinous detective work uncovered in 2001, Crljenak emerged from the shadows, revealing its close kinship to Plavac mali, Croatia's celebrated native. Yet its fame stretches further: this same variety captivates palates worldwide as Primitivo across the Adriatic in Italy and as Zinfandel in America. Likely carried to Italian shores in the 18th century before crossing the Atlantic, it wove a global tapestry from humble Dalmatian roots. Long presumed a purely American heirloom, Zinfandel's true origins now trace back to these rugged Croatian terrains, though each land coaxes distinct expressions from shared heritage. Pour a glass of this full-bodied Croatian Crljenak, and its intense dark red hue signals bold character. High alcohol content teams with robust tannins and poised acidity, crafting a structure that commands attention. Dark berries like blackberries and blueberries dance alongside whispers of licorice and spice, forming a profile uniquely shaped by Dalmatian terroir. Ideal alongside hearty red meats or wild game, this wine elevates robust flavors with its intensity. Surprisingly, it harmonizes with tuna too, bridging land and sea in unexpected harmony. At 13.50% ABV and in a classic 750 ml bottle, it delivers dry elegance—sweetness level 01—for those seeking an authentic taste of Croatia's resilient wine legacy. Unearth the story in your next sip. This isn't just wine; it's a revival of ancient vines, bottled for modern discovery. Perfect for collectors of rare varietals or adventurers chasing the soul of Dalmatia.