2021 Monastery Tvrdoš Vranac, Trebinje, Bosnia & Herzegovina (750ml)

The wine is made by Serbian Orthodox monks at the Monastery Tvrdoš located 2.5 miles west of Trebinje and less than 20 miles from the Adriatic Sea. The monastery was built in the 13th century on the foundation of a 4th century Roman church. They have been known for winemaking since the Middle Ages.

This is the biggest and boldest old world red in their portfolio. The ripeness, tannins and acidity almost hint back to the redwood fermented California reds of the 1970s and 80s. Composed of 100% Vranac, a close relative of Zinfandel, Vranac translates to the “Black Horse”; it thrives in the super rocky Karst soils and hot conditions, and maintains ample acidity. Aged for 2 years in 100+ year old Monastic barrels, it is surprisingly refreshing with a remarkable jet black color. This is a rich, flavorful medium bodied red with flavors of blue and black fruits nicely balanced by soft tannins and good structure.