Wines Goriška Brda Klet Brda - Bagueri superior chardonnay - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Klet Brda’s Bagueri Superior Chardonnay 2021 is an expressive Slovenian white wine crafted in the picturesque Goriška Brda subregion of Primorska. This cuvée expresses the full potential of the Chardonnay grape, sourced from vineyards that benefit from both the Mediterranean and Alpine influences. The 2021 vintage enjoyed a relatively mild growing season, resulting in a wine of both freshness and aromatic intensity. Vinified with a focus on precision, the wine is likely fermented and matured in a combination of stainless steel and selected oak barrels, lending subtle complexity and texture without overwhelming the natural varietal character. Bagueri Superior’s organic certification speaks to Klet Brda’s commitment to sustainable practices, ensuring a wine that is both pure and expressive of its terroir.

Goriška Brda is frequently referred to as the “Tuscany of Slovenia,” with its rolling limestone hills, mosaic of tiny villages, and Mediterranean climate. The region is shielded from cold northern winds by the Julian Alps, while the proximity to the Adriatic Sea brings ample sunshine and gentle breezes, creating an ideal microclimate for grape ripening and aromatic development. The mineral-rich soils rich in marl, sandstone, and clay contribute to wines with notable elegance and depth. Goriška Brda’s winegrowing heritage stretches back centuries, and today the area is celebrated for its delicate, textural whites and increasingly sophisticated reds, often made with meticulous attention by cooperative cellars like Klet Brda.

For food pairings, Bagueri Superior Chardonnay 2021 is delightfully versatile. Its fresh acidity and creamy texture will pair beautifully with dishes such as grilled sea bass with lemon herb sauce, roasted free-range chicken, or vegetable risotto with truffle oil. For a regional touch, consider pairing it with frika, a traditional cheese and potato dish from western Slovenia, or fresh Adriatic seafood served with a drizzle of olive oil and herbs.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this Chardonnay well-chilled but not icy, ideally at 10-12°C. Decanting for a short while, or pouring into the glass a few minutes before serving, will allow the wine’s aromatic bouquet—ripe orchard fruits, hints of citrus, and delicate toastiness—to unfold fully. This wine can develop subtle complexity over the next few years, but is highly enjoyable now for its youthful vibrancy and elegance.