Wines Buje Veralda - Xtrian Refošk - 2020

Veralda’s Cuvée Xtrian Refošk 2020 is a red wine from the Buje appellation in Istria, a region in north-western Croatia that is increasingly celebrated for its distinctive, characterful wines. This particular cuvée appears to centre around the Refošk grape, a native varietal of the Adriatic region, known for its deep colour, pronounced freshness, and lively acidity. While precise details of the blend and the vinification process are not specified, you can expect a wine that conveys both the intensity of ripe dark fruit—plum, blackberry and cherry—and a vein of minerality echoed from Istria’s unique soils. The 2020 vintage was generally favourable across the region, promising balance and approachability but also a structure fit for short to mid-term cellaring.

Istria’s winemaking heritage stretches back to Roman times, with the area’s distinctive red and white soils lending a unique signature to its wines. The Mediterranean climate brings warm summers and gentle maritime breezes, tempering the heat and aiding grape maturity without sacrificing freshness. Buje itself, perched amongst rolling hills near the Slovenian border, has become known for wines that combine structure and elegance, with Refošk being particularly expressive here.

As for food pairings, the vibrancy and tannic backbone typically found in Refošk-based reds make this wine an excellent companion to both local Istrian cuisine and a range of Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Try it with flavourful meat stews, grilled lamb or beef, and wild mushroom risotto. Traditional pairings from the region include dishes such as Istrian pršut (cured ham), aged hard cheeses, or fuži pasta with venison ragù, which will play beautifully off the wine’s depth and acidity.

For the optimal tasting experience, this red should be served at a slightly cool room temperature, ideally between 16 and 18°C. If opening young, consider decanting for an hour to allow the wine to reveal its full aromatic spectrum and soften its structure.