Korlat Syrah 2019 is a striking red wine from Dalmatia, a region along Croatia's sun-drenched Adriatic coast. This cuvée, crafted primarily from Syrah, expresses the typicity of the grape through the lens of the Dalmatian landscape. In the glass, you can expect intense aromas of ripe dark fruits such as blackberry and plum, accented with delicate notes of pepper, Mediterranean herbs, and a whisper of vanilla or cocoa from careful ageing – often in both stainless steel and oak. The 2019 vintage was marked by warm summer temperatures, helping the Syrah reach optimal ripeness while retaining freshness, resulting in a wine with generous fruit, supple tannins, and a lively, lingering finish.
Dalmatia is an ancient winemaking region, celebrated since antiquity for its rugged limestone hills and proximity to the sea, which both shape the character of its wines. The region's Mediterranean climate, with its hot, dry summers and mild winters, provides excellent conditions for Syrah and other international grape varieties. The soil here is predominantly karst – stony and well-drained – compelling the vines to dig deep, which adds to the complexity and concentration in the finished wine. Dalmatian wine culture is informed by centuries of influence from the Venetians, the Ottomans, and the Austro-Hungarians, creating a rich tapestry that’s reflected in every bottle.
Pairing this Syrah with food reveals its full potential. It is ideally suited to robust Mediterranean dishes such as grilled lamb, spiced sausages, or beef steaks. Dalmatian cuisine itself offers excellent partners: try it with pašticada, a slow-cooked beef stew with prunes and red wine, or locally-cured prosciutto. Mature cheeses and dishes with roasted Mediterranean vegetables also work beautifully.
For tasting, serve this wine at 16-18°C to allow its intricate bouquet and texture to flourish. A brief decanting, around 30 minutes, can help open up the wine and reveal all its aromatic complexity. Approached thoughtfully, this bottle provides a wonderful insight into modern Dalmatian winemaking and the region’s dynamic potential for Syrah.
