Primosten, located in coastal Croatia and recognized as a historic and UNESCO-protected area, possesses vineyards that are truly remarkable. Recognizing their potential, two talented winemakers, Kreso Petrekovic and Niko Dukan, have taken on the challenge of working with these unique and often forgotten lands.
The Primosten vineyards were initially rocky and virtually inaccessible terrain. However, through immense human effort and without the aid of machinery, the area has been transformed into agricultural land. The vineyards are "Clos" or enclosed by walls, with each plot consisting of only 2 to 12 vines.
These vines grow literally on rocks, offering a stunning view of the Adriatic Sea. The rocks are a blend of limestone and dolomitic limestone resulting from tectonic plate collisions. The lack of soil is notable, but the vines manage to find pathways through small cracks filled with red clay, leading to the underground water that flows from the mountains to the sea. The limited amount of red clay allows the vines to absorb and retain water, ensuring hydration during the long, hot, and rainless Mediterranean summers from May to October. The surviving vines produce grapes that never fail to impress.
In the winemaking process, the grapes are destemmed, and no additional sugar is added. Natural yeast is utilized, and the wines are unfined and unfiltered. Only a minimal amount of sulphites is added before bottling. Notably, the winemakers hold Croatia's native grape varietal, Babic, in high regard. Babic has been actively cultivated in the Northern Dalmatian region for centuries, although it remains relatively unknown outside the area.
The wines from Primosten display an incredibly aromatic bouquet, characterized by floral notes and hints of sweet red fruits derived from the Mediterranean terroir. On the palate, they exhibit a mineral-driven profile while maintaining a round and juicy texture. These wines are often compared to exceptional offerings from the Etna region or outstanding Burgundies. However, experiencing them firsthand is the best way to appreciate their uniqueness. They are truly unlike any other wines and deserve exploration and admiration.
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