Suha Punta Kontra 2011

Can drink now through to 2027

Deep ruby in colour, the nose gives ripe fruit such as cherries, blackcurrants and even a little blueberry. The palate releases the ripe fruit as discovered by the nose along with figs, a hint of vanilla and just a suggestion of passion fruit. The high alcohol balances well with the high acidity resulting in a pleasant, mellow mouth feel and a finish that goes on and on!

The Gracin Suha Punta Kontra (also known as Counter) is an equal blend of Babic and Plavac Mali grapes. The grapes are from the best vineyards and only the best grapes are used. The high temperatures and cooling effect of the sea gives berries with highly concentrated juice. This results in grapes with high levels of sugar that convert into high alcohol wines. Both varieties are high in acid and Babic in particular needs to be fully ripe or the risk is that vegetal tones come into the wine. Fortunately, the winemaker has it exactly right with this wine.

Perfect food match for rich red meat dishes or with a plain steak, veal, sausage and cheese.

Suha Punta is a very new winery but is already producing premium wines that, in the right hands, have been compared to syrah from the Rhone and merlot from St Emilion. It has some of the best red wines Croatia has to offer.