Marjan Simcic Ribolla Opoka 'Medana Jama' Cru 2019

Marjan Simcic Ribolla Opoka 'Medana Jama' Cru 2019

Producer: Marjan Simcic
Region: Brda, Slovenia
Classification: White wine with skin contact
Grape: 100% Ribolla Gialla
Vineyard: Medana Jama Cru
Planting Year: 1950
Altitude: 140–160 meters
Exposure: Northwest
Soil: Marl and limestone (Opoka)
Farming: Organic and biodynamic
Harvest: Manual, early October

Vinification:

• Spontaneous fermentation on skins for 8 days in 1,000L concrete eggs

• Concrete eggs made using stones from the vineyard

• Aged 10 months in concrete + 12 months in 500L oak barrels (tonneau)

• Bottled unfined and unfiltered

Cellaring Potential: 15+ years

Description

A benchmark skin-contact Ribolla from one of the oldest parcels in Brda, the 'Medana Jama' Cru, planted in 1950 on Opoka soils. Crafted by Marjan Simcic, a visionary vigneron and leader in Slovenia’s wine renaissance, this wine combines ancestral tradition with modern clarity.

Fermented on the skins in handcrafted concrete eggs from vineyard stones, the wine exudes orange blossom, wild herbs, ripe peach, and exotic spice. On the palate, it is saline, textural and luminous, with superfine tannins, firm acidity and a vivid mineral core. Structured and deeply expressive, this Ribolla Gialla is built for aging yet compelling today.

Score

Jancis Robinson – 18+ points
“Orange blossom, spice, wild herbs, and stone fruit on the nose. The palate is sapid, pure and bright, with fine peach, orange zest and spice, supported by a mineral core and superfine tannins.” — (CG)

Suggested Pairings

• Grilled fish with aromatic herbs

• Poultry and white meats

• Pasta with walnuts and blue cheese

• Mild chicken or vegetable curry

• Lightly spiced Asian cuisine