Matošević 'Alba Antiqua' Malvazija Istarska 2019
Described by the late Steven Spurrier as "Croatia’s best winemaker", Ivica Matošević has played a large role in championing Croatia’s native grape variety, Malvazija Istarska (Malvasia Istriana), coaxing out its complex herbal, mineral and slightly bitter almond characteristics. He has pushed the quality of Croatian wine ever further with the ‘Alba Antiqua’ which is made from 100% Malvazija Istarska, selected from a single vineyard near the village of Krasica in western Istria, which is highly prized for its low yields. Made only in exceptional vintages, it is fermented on its skins for several days to create texture, then aged in French oak and acacia barrels for 30 months. Straw yellow in colour, this wine stands out due to its ripe aromatics, and wide spectrum of notes. Aromas of apricot and spices are lifted by bright floral notes. The palate is rich with flavours of acacia flowers and honey, which lead to a long finish, characterised by a tropical-nutty tone. This style of wine is reminiscent of ancient Mediterranean styles and is suitable for ageing in bottle.
