Korta Katarina, Reuben's Private Reserve, Pelješac Peninsula, Croatia 2013

At 11 years old, when tasted, this wine shows the pedigree possible with patience when making Plavac Mali. The Reuben's is designed for ageing and is only made in the very best vintages. It was produced in 2009, 11, 13 and 2016 will be the next release. It's a vineyard selection, pulling the best blocks from their top sites and the best barriques in the cellar from those chosen. It's a glorious wine, that shows why Plavaca Mali was a driver of fine wine in Dalmatia. Elegant aromas of violets and rose, ripe, sweet black cherry, and a fresh, savoury white pepper lift. The palate is redolent with sweet, ripe black fruits, surrounded by florals, mineral refinement and a finish of smoky clove.