Plavac Mali GOLD EDITION 2016

Volarević Plavac Mali GOLD EDITION 2016 is an outstanding premium Croatian red from the coastal vineyards of Komarna in southern Dalmatia. Made from 100% Plavac Mali, this powerful yet balanced wine showcases one of Croatia's most distinctive indigenous grape varieties, combining concentrated Mediterranean fruit, elegant oak influences and impressive structure.

The 2016 received 94 Points from Wine Enthusiast and holds a 4.3/5 rating on Vivino.

Plavac Mali is genetically related to Zinfandel and Primitivo, being a natural offspring of Crljenak Kaštelanski and the indigenous Croatian Dobričić grape. It typically produces structured, tannic wines with pronounced Mediterranean character.

The Volarević family's vineyards are located on steep, rocky slopes overlooking the Adriatic Sea, at elevations of approximately 72–132 metres. Limestone-rich soils, abundant sunshine and cooling maritime breezes provide excellent conditions for developing ripe, concentrated grapes while retaining freshness.

The 2016 displays a deep ruby-red colour and an expressive bouquet of ripe black cherries, red plums, blackberries and raspberries, complemented by dark chocolate, black pepper, cinnamon, tobacco and leather. Wine Enthusiast highlights pomegranate, red plum, saddle leather and tobacco aromas, followed by sour cherry, cinnamon and integrated tannins.

On the palate, it is dry, full-bodied, concentrated and complex, with generous dark-fruit flavours, warm Mediterranean spices, firm but increasingly integrated tannins and a long, savoury finish. Its natural acidity provides freshness and balance despite the wine's substantial concentration.

GOLD EDITION is produced only in exceptional vintages, with carefully selected grapes harvested by hand at night to preserve freshness. Following approximately 15–30 days of maceration, the wine matures for 18–24 months in Croatian, French and American oak barrels, followed by further stabilisation and at least one year of bottle ageing before release.

The 2016 vintage offers an appealing opportunity to enjoy a well-developed expression of Plavac Mali. Its original concentration and firm tannic structure have had time to integrate, while secondary aromas of leather, tobacco, dried fruit and warm spice may be emerging. This is a wine to enjoy now, with further cellaring possible under suitable storage conditions.

An exceptional Croatian red – rich, powerful and beautifully structured, combining concentrated Mediterranean fruit, elegant oak, savoury complexity and a long finish. A wonderful discovery for lovers of premium Primitivo, Zinfandel and full-bodied Italian reds.

International Recognition – 2016 Vintage

94 Points – Wine Enthusiast (September 2022)

4.3/5 – Vivino, 2016 Vintage