Matusko Dingac Reserva 2016

Drink now or cellar for up to 11 years. Decant 2 hours before serving. In Dalmatia the indigenous Plavac Mali grape is called the “blood of the soil” after its striking ruby red colour and essential role in local life. Some of the best examples come from Dingač which was the first Croatian wine region to be given Protected Designation of Origin status by the EU. Run by a quirky local biker, Matusko winery occupies an enviable position on breathtaking steep cliffs facing the azure sea. Although not yet well known outside of Croatia, the winery has built a solid reputation for producing sensational dusky reds which express the essence of the local terroir. Their Dingač Reserva exudes unusual floral notes and dense layers of ripe dark fruits, dried Mediterranean herbs and baking spices from the oak ageing. Thought to be related to the Zinfandel and Primitivo grapes which have achieved huge popularity in California and Italy, this interpretation of Plavac Mali is full bodied and rich yet balanced by a distinctive bitterness often found in its American and European cousins. Try serving it with a generous platter of charcuterie or even herb-roasted lamb to complement the delicate floral notes of this seductive red wine.

Price: £33.71 from 8wines UK