Vranac (Vino Manastira Tvrdoš) 2021 [Vranac] (Bosnia and Herzegovina / Red Wine / Full-bodied and robust)

■ Appearance: Deep, opaque ruby red with vibrant purple hues at the rim.

■ Aroma: Powerful and alluring aromas of dried cranberries, freshly baked bread, and dark cherries, with subtle hints of wild Mediterranean herbs.

■ Palate: Full-bodied, energetic, and incredibly well-structured. Fresh, lively berry flavors and bright acidity are perfectly balanced with ripe, firm tannins. The finish is long and flavorful, leaving elegant notes of ripe dark cherries and baking spices.

The Story of Vranac and its Winemaking
Vranac literally means "black stallion," a name that perfectly describes its deep, dark color, power, and wild energy. As the most important indigenous red wine grape in the southwestern Balkans, it is known for producing robust wines with rich tannins, vibrant acidity, and excellent aging potential.

The grapes are meticulously hand-picked by monks and local growers. After fermentation, the wine is aged in traditional giant oak barrels in the monastery's 15th-century stone cellar. This venerable method allows the wine to age gracefully, smoothing out the tannins while preserving the freshness derived from the terroir.

With its 15% alcohol volume, powerful tannins, and vibrant acidity, this Vranac pairs perfectly with rich, flavorful, and well-seasoned dishes:

• ■ Grilled Ribeye Steak or Lamb Chops: The wine's firm, structured tannins are beautifully softened by the rich animal fats and savory, smoky flavors of dark meats.
• ■ Ćevapi (Balkan meat dish): A beautiful homage to its homeland. The flavorful garlic and spices used in traditional meat dishes resonate wonderfully with the wild Mediterranean herb notes found in the wine.
• ■ Aged Hard Cheeses (Pecorino or Parmigiano): The sharp saltiness of the cheese creates a magnificent contrast with the wine's characteristic flavors of dried cranberries and dark fruits.

Serving Temperature: 16℃〜18℃ (Enjoy its true richness within this temperature range)

The Terroir of Popovo Plain (Trebinje)
Located just about 24 km from the Adriatic Sea, the vineyards receive the scorching Mediterranean summer sun, which is perfectly mitigated by cool night winds blowing down from the Dinaric Alps. The harsh, rocky limestone soil forces the vine roots to delve deep into the earth in search of nourishment. This results in highly concentrated, mineral-driven grapes that naturally achieve a powerful 15% alcohol content while maintaining vibrant and refreshing acidity.