At one time it was thought Plavac Mali was Zinfandel but at best Plavac Mali and Zinfandel may have shared some ancestral grape heritage. It is my go-to red in Croatia and has its most extensive planting on Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian coast. Two or three times a year Torontonians see some Plavic Mali on our shelves.
We try a Barrique 2018 from Terra Madre in Croatia. Terra Madre’s first vines were planted in 2008.
The Terra Madre website states the wine is 100% Plavac Mali. The Liquor Control Board of Ontario’s Vintages catalogue includes a quip from a 2024 Decanter World Wine Awards review as the wine being 85% Plavac Mali with 8% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7% Syrah. Oh the mysteries of the wine world!
Aroma: Blackberry, black cherry, stewed prune and dried figs in a gentle smoky frame.
Palate: Clean, pure and sharp. Very high-toned blackberry with bits of black cherry and rhubarb brought to a certain calmness by stolid strawberry jam influences. Tannins slowly set in after palate entry but they are moderate with acidity under control. Longish finish.
Personality: I am a nervous high-strung wine perhaps because so many wine drinkers may have been misled and call me Zinfandel!
Food Match: Cevapcici with Ajvar.
Cellarbility: Not designed for ageing but there may be some settling down in 2025 but consume no later than the end of 2026.
Price: $27 CDN. A bit steep if not prohibitive for a “new market” wine.
RKS 2024 Wine Rating: 89/100. Decanter World Wine Awards 93.
(Terra Madre, Barrique 2018 Plavac Mali, Hrvatska, Croatia, 750 mL, 14%).
A Bird's Eye View of Fashion, Food, Travel, Culture, Beverage and Curiosity 