Grapes: Sivi Pinot (Pinot Gris)
Region: Goriska Brda, Slovenia
Vintage: 2019
Viticulture: Organic + Biodynamic + No Till
Soils: Marl
Vinification: 15 days of maceration—in a combination of stainless steel, concrete, and barrel
Aging: 1 year in used barrels (barrel age of 10+ years)
Fining or Filtering: None
Sulfur: None
Notes from the Importer: The Kabaj family has grown grapes in Goriška Brda for generations. Up until the late 80’s, like most families in the region, their harvest went to the local State cooperative. Even then they enjoyed working in the vineyards and cared very much for quality. In the late 80’s Katja Kabaj married French enologist, Jean Michel Morel who she met while he was working in neighboring Collio, Italy. They decided to settle down in Katja’s childhood village of Slovrenc and establish their own winery and family. This was the same moment Slovenia was being established after the breakup of Yugoslavia.
Goriška Brda is Slovenia’s best known wine appellation. This is due to the cross border status it shares with the more famous Italian Collio.
They make 60,000 to 100,000 bottles annually. 30% of the production is classical renditions of Bordeaux varieties, 70% is white grapes fermented with the skins.
Notes: Opens with aromas of dried fruit, vanilla, and a piney note reminiscent of the Slovenian Alps. The barrel aging shows on the palate, with structured tannin and a savory, woody finish that lasts.
